bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Contact Potential Difference by the Kelvin Probe (Part I) I. Basic Principles of Measurements
Authors: Vilitis O. , Rutkis M. , Busenberg J. , Merkulov D.
Published: May 2018

Determination of electric potential difference using the Kelvin probe, i.e. vibrating capacitor technique, is one of the most sensitive measuring procedures in surface physics. Periodic modulation of distance between electrodes leads to changes in capacitance, thereby causing current to flow through the external circuit. The procedure of contactless, non-destructive determination of contact potential difference between an electrically conductive vibrating reference electrode and an electrically conductive sample is based on precise control measurement of Kelvin current flowing through a capacitor. The present research is devoted to creation of a new low-cost miniaturised measurement system to determine potential difference in real time and at high measurement resolution. Furthermore, using the electrode of a reference probe, the Kelvin method leads to both the indirect measurement of an electronic work function, or a contact potential of sample, and of a surface potential for insulator type samples.

In the article, the first part of the research, i.e., the basic principles and prerequisites for establishment of such a measurement system are considered.
A Modified Inertial Method for Loop-free Decomposition of Acyclic Directed Graphs
Authors: Drexler Dániel A. , Arató Péter
Published: May 2018

Graph decomposition is a key process in system-level synthesis, even if it is used for allocation (e.g. hardware-software partitioning) or simple decomposition as a preprocessing step (e.g. for pipelining). Acyclic graphs are usually desirable in the design processes, thus preserving the acyclicity during decomposition is crucial. We propose a modified inertial decomposition to create loop-free decomposition results. We assign coordinates to the nodes based on their maximal distance from the inputs, and give an algorithm that finds the required number of cuts in polynomial time while balancing the size of segments and looking for minimal number of edges along cuts.
Random Process Simulation Using Petri Nets
Authors: Szilágyi László
Published: May 2018

This paper introduces a Petri net designed for the simulation of the ancient game called Rock-Paper-Scissors or Roshambo. The network enables us to simulate the behavior of machine players and allows us to design and evaluate strategies against weighted random machine opponents. The paper also presents a theoretical calculus on winning chances. Simulations carried out using the software package Pipe (version 4.3.0) fully confirm the theoretical considerations.
Managing Streaming Services in a Distributed Testbed
Authors: Zalatnay Zsolt , Simon Csaba , Maliosz Markosz , Terza Balázs
Published: May 2018

Controlling the nodes in a distributed networking environment is not a trivial task, because there is no central entity that is aware of all the details. In this paper we present a solution that solves this issue in a testbed dedicated to research the streaming video distribution among mobile nodes. We designed a peer-to-peer overlay to support the control functions. We implement network coding function in the nodes, making possible to apply it to the video stream, increasing the robustness of the streaming service. We present the prototype of our solution and the performance evaluation of the service.
Modification of the potential production capabilities of agricultural terrace soils due to historical cultivation in the Budina cadastral area, Slovakia
Authors: Slámová Martina , Jakubec Bruno , Hreško Juraj , Beláček Boris , Gallay Igor
Published: May 2018

The soil production attributes of historical agrarian terraced fields were examined in the Budina cadastral area of the Ostrozky Mountains. This landscape represents a unique sub-mountainous Carpathian landscape with farms that use a historically preserved triple-field agricultural system. We determined the geo-spatial parameters of different types of land cover and terraces using geographic information systems. The soil depth was measured in the field, and the skeleton content was determined in the laboratory. We compared data regarding the potential production capabilities of the soil with data from the national classification of agricultural soils. Our results indicated that the soil productivity attributes improved because the naturally less fertile cambisols were positively affected by terracing and long-term cultivation. We recommend the preservation of traditional agricultural activities in historical terraced fields because these terraces represent valuable features that improve the quality of the landscape.
Brand importance across product categories in the Czech Republic
Authors: Formánek Tomáš , Tahal Radek
Published: May 2018

This paper deals with customer loyalty to brands and provides an analysis of brand-related attitudes among Czech consumers. Brand loyalty is a very important aspect of competitive marketing and we contribute an empirically supported point of view on the topic. Based on primary data from a complex consumer survey carried out for the purpose of this study, we investigate the extent of brand loyalty across different product categories, mostly fast moving consumer goods (FMCG). For convenience, the analysis of our survey-data may be divided in two main areas. First, product categories are ranked according to their potential power to attract customers’ interest and loyalty towards brands. When loyalty programs are prepared, it is important to discern product categories where loyalty potential is weak from those categories that attract consumer loyalty. Second, sociodemographic features and lifestyle factors from the survey are evaluated with respect to different product categories, by means of logistic regression and subsequent average partial effect (APE) analysis. A detailed and practically oriented interpretation of the empirical results is provided by the authors. However, both corporate marketers and academic readers can use the tables with empirical estimation outputs that are provided in this article to draw their own conclusions, which may be focused on the product category of interest and/or focused on any specific consumer group that is of particular interest. Among other topics, this paper emphasizes the fact that brand loyalty is a highly complex phenomenon and that it can and should be analysed from different perspectives.
C-Reactive Protein –Biological Marker of Inflammation in Patients with Pneumonia
Authors: Mircevska Violeta , Petrovska Sonja , Zafirovski Oliver , Jovikj Maja
Published: May 2018

Introduction. The term biomarkers or biological markers generally refers to proteins measured in the circulation (blood), whose concentration indicates some normal or pathological state or condition. The biomarker is objectively measured and evaluated as an indicator of normal biological processes or pharmacological responses to therapeutic interventions. One of these biological markers is C-reactive protein (CRP).

Aim. To evaluate the efficiency of using adequate and appropriate biomarkers for diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of pneumonia in children.

Methods. This study included 30 patients with diagnosed pneumonia, who were admitted at our Institute. Blood samples were taken prior to initiation of treatment in patients with pneumonia and 7 and 14 days after the treatment. The control group included physically active and healthy individuals without family history of disease, aged from 1 to 14 years. All the results of the biochemical analyses were within the reference values, and none of the control individuals received therapy. In our country, for serum C-reactive protein, as well as for other parameters that determine the diagnosis of the patient, we use a common method for determining normal values, by choosing a huge representative sample from the screening population, consisting of healthy individuals without any disease, especially with no sign of this disease (the children who should be checked up). Further, normal values obtained in this way are taken as reference values.

Results. The average serum CRP protein levels prior to antibiotic therapy were the following: (1-2) x̄±sd =34.94±20.44 mg/L, (3-6) x̄±sd=68.20±10.87 mg/L, (7-11) x̄±sd=65.59±12.01 mg/L, whereas in patients with pneumonia after 7-day antibiotic treatment the values were the following: x̄±sd=24.64 ± 11.57 mg/L/x̄±sd =40.10±6.83 mg/L/x̄±sd=32.09±6.68 mg/L (P<0.05), and after 14-day-therapy x̄±sd=6.80±1.14 mg/L/x̄± sd=7.20±0.82 mg/L/x̄±sd=8.10±0.89 mg/L (P<0.05). Also, CRP in serum correlated with the severity of the clinical condition (P<0.05).

Discussion and conclusion. This study is useful for showing the importance of C-reactive protein in serum for early diagnosis and follow-up of the pneumonia. CRP is very important as a biomarker, both from clinical and scientific aspect. It can be used for early rapid diagnosis, monitoring of pneumonia and can successfully be used in a large number of diagnosis. It opens new opportunities for further research in this field.
Symplastic Leiomyoma of the Uterus-Case Report
Authors: Georgieva Snezana , Nikolova Tanja , Nikolova Natasha
Published: May 2018

We present a case of a twenty-four-year old, nulligravid woman with suspicionof molar pregnancy and admittedat the University Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Skopje. On bimanual examination uniformly enlarged uterus was detected. Ultrasonography revealed snow storm echo signal in the uterine cavity. Dilation and curettage were performed and only a slight quantity of material was obtained. Serum bHCG was negative. MRI revealed a finding of the tumorous formation on the anterior wall of the uterus deforming and dislocating the uterus without any additional information. Open surgery was planned and tumorectomy was performedinour hospital. Histopathology analysis of the obtained material revealed symplastic myoma of the uterus. The patient got spontaneously pregnant later, but the pregnancy finished as a spontaneous missed abortion and instrumental revision was performed. Five months later the patient got pregnant again. She had regular pregnancy course and delivery at 37.5 gestational week.
Preparation and characterization of EPDM-silica nano/micro composites for high voltage insulation applications
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Choudhry Muhammad Ahmad
Published: May 2018

The rising market for substitute materials in high voltage insulation components is stimulated largely by the need to reduce overall costs. In this respect, polymer insulators offer significant advantages over old traditional materials. In the present research, efforts have been made to quantify the effect of silica (having different particle size nano, micro and hybrid) loading on the mechanical and thermal behaviors of Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomer (EPDM) based high voltage electrical insulations. The fabricated composites were subjected to mechanical, thermal and electrical properties measurements. The results of dielectric strength, surface and volume resistivities showed that all composites had insulator properties, while their mechanical and thermal properties improved considerably. EPDM was compounded with different types of silica in a two roll mill using sulphur cure system. The outcome achieved from the comparative study revealed that the EPDM nanocomposites had enhanced mechanical, thermal and electrical properties even at 5 % loadings.
Surface morphology of titanium nitride thin films synthesized by DC reactive magnetron sputtering
Authors: Ţǎlu Ştefan , Stach Sebastian , Valedbagi Shahoo , Elahi S. Mohammad , Bavadi Reza
Published: May 2018

In this paper the influence of temperature on the 3-D surface morphology of titanium nitride (TiN) thin films synthesized by DC reactive magnetron sputtering has been analyzed. The 3-D morphology variation of TiN thin films grown on p-type Si (100) wafers was investigated at four different deposition temperatures (473 K, 573 K, 673 K, 773 K) in order to evaluate the relation among the 3-D micro-textured surfaces. The 3-D surface morphology of TiN thin films was characterized by means of atomic force microscopy (AFM) and fractal analysis applied to the AFM data. The 3-D surface morphology revealed the fractal geometry of TiN thin films at nanometer scale. The global scale properties of 3-D surface geometry were quantitatively estimated using the fractal dimensions D, determined by the morphological envelopes method. The fractal dimension D increased with the substrate temperature variation from 2.36 (at 473 K) to 2.66 (at 673 K) and then decreased to 2.33 (at 773 K). The fractal analysis in correlation with the averaged power spectral density (surface) yielded better quantitative results of morphological changes in the TiN thin films caused by substrate temperature variations, which were more precise, detailed, coherent and reproducible. It can be inferred that fractal analysis can be easily applied for the investigation of morphology evolution of different film/substrate interface phases obtained using different thin-film technologies.
Antireflective bilayer coatings based on Al2O3 film for UV region
Authors: Marszałek Konstanty , Winkowski Paweł , Marszałek Marta
Published: May 2018

Bilayer antireflective coatings consisting of aluminium oxide Al2O3/MgF2 and Al2O3/SiO2 are presented in this paper. Oxide films were deposited by means of e-gun evaporation in vacuum of 5 × 10-3 Pa in the presence of oxygen, and magnesium fluoride was prepared by thermal evaporation on heated optical lenses made from quartz glass (Corning HPFS). Substrate temperature was maintained at 250 _C during the deposition. Thickness and deposition rate were controlled with a thickness measuring system Inficon XTC/2. The experimental results of the optical measurements carried out during and after the deposition process have been presented. Physical thickness measurements were made during the deposition process and resulted in 44 nm/52 nm for Al2O3/MgF2 and 44 nm/50 nm for Al2O3/SiO2 system. Optimization was carried out for ultraviolet region with minimum of reflectance at 300 nm. The influence of post deposition annealing on the crystal structure was determined by X-ray measurements. In the range from ultraviolet to the beginning of visible region, the reflectance of both systems decreased and reached minimum at 290 nm. The value of reflectance at this point, for the coating Al2O3/MgF2 was equal to R290nm = 0.6 % and for Al2O3/SiO2R290nm = 1.1 %. Despite the difference between these values both are sufficient for applications in the UV optical systems for medicine and UV laser technology.
Nanosized MoO3 as a reusable heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of 2,6-bis(benzylidene)cyclohexanones
Authors: Dighore Nitin R. , Anandgaonker Priyanka L. , Gaikwad Suresh T. , Rajbhoj Anjali S.
Published: May 2018

Crystalline MoO3 nanoparticles were obtained by electrochemical synthesis process using tetrapropylammonium bromide as a stabilizer and structure-directing agent in ACN:THF(4:1) solvent. Formation of MoO3 nanoparticles took place at a constant supply current of 14 mA/cm2. These synthesized MoO3 nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). So prepared MoO3 nanoparticles were used as a heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of 2,6-bis(benzylidene)cyclohexanone derivatives. This protocol offers several advantages, such as simple work-up procedure, recyclability of the catalyst, excellent product yield in a short reaction time and purification of products with a non-chromatographic method.
Synthesis, characterization and fabrication of copper nanoparticles in N-isopropylacrylamide based co-polymer microgels for degradation of p-nitrophenol
Authors: Farooqi Zahoor H. , Sakhawat Tanzila , Khan Shanza Rauf , Kanwal Farah , Usman Muhammad , Begum Robina
Published: May 2018

Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) [P(NIPAM-co-AAc)] microgels were synthesized by precipitation polymerization. Copper nanoparticles were successfully fabricated inside the microgels by in-situ reduction of copper ions in an aqueous medium. The microgels were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Hydrodynamic radius of P(NIPAM-co-AAc) microgel particles increased with an increase in pH in aqueous medium at 25 °C. Copper-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) [Cu-P(NIPAM-co-AAc)] hybrid microgels were used as a catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). Effect of temperature, concentration of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) and catalyst dosage on the value of apparent rate constant (kapp) for catalytic reduction of 4-NP in the presence of Cu-P(NIPAM-co-AAc) hybrid microgels were investigated by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. It was found that the value of kapp for catalytic reduction of 4-NP in the presence of Cu-P(NIPAM-co-AAc) hybrid microgel catalyst increased with an increase in catalyst dosage, temperature and concentration of NaBH4 in aqueous medium. The results were discussed in terms of diffusion of reactants towards catalyst surface and swelling-deswelling of hybrid microgels.
Influence of different synthesis conditions on properties of oleic acid-coated-Fe3O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Aliakbari Atieh , Seifi Majid , Mirzaee Sharareh , Hekmatara Hoda
Published: May 2018

In the present paper, iron oxide nanoparticles coated by oleic acid have been synthesized in different conditions by coprecipitation method. For investigating the effect of time spent on adding the oleic acid to the precursor solution, two different processes have been considered. The as synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Magnetic measurement was carried out at room temperature using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The results show that the magnetic nanoparticles decorated with oleic acid decreased the saturation of magnetization. From the data, it can also be concluded that the magnetization of Fe3O4/oleic acid nanoparticles depends on synthesis conditions.
Rietveld refinement on XRD and TEM study of nanocrystalline PbZr0:5Ti0:5O3 ceramics prepared with a soft chemistry route
Authors: Mandal T.K.
Published: May 2018

PbZr0:5Ti0:5O3 nanopowders (~27 nm) have been prepared by a controlled reconstructive thermal decomposition and crystallization from an amorphous polymeric precursor with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sucrose at 400 to 700 °C in air. The Rietveld refinement of the XRD profiles which were recorded at room temperature for the PbZr0:5Ti0:5O3 powder prepared by a thermal treatment at 700 °C for 2 h, confirmed the P4mm tetragonal crystal structure of the as prepared PbZr0:5Ti0:5O3 nanopowders, with a = 0.4036 nm and c = 0.4147 nm. A hexagonal symmetry (R3c), with a = 0.5774 nm and c = 1.4212 nm, was also detected from Rietveld refinement analysis. Thus, tetragonal and hexagonal phases were found to coexist with the as prepared PbZr0:5Ti0:5O3 nanopowders. The average particle size (D) of the PbZr0:5Ti0:5O3 powders, estimated with the help of the specific surface area, measured by BET method, was 26.1 nm. Average D value, calculated by D2θ1/2 in the XRD peaks with the Debye-Scherrer relation was ~24 nm. TEM study made it possible to measure the particle size of PbZr0:5Ti0:5O3 powders with an average diameter of 27 nm.
Dielectric relaxation and study of electrical conduction mechanism in BaZr0.1Ti0.9O3ceramics by correlated barrier hopping model
Authors: Mondal Tanusree , Das Sayantani , Sinha T.P. , Sarun P.M.
Published: May 2018

This work aims to study the electrical conduction mechanism in the dielectric material BaZr0.1Ti0.9O3(BZT) ceramics by applying AC signal in the frequency range of 102Hz to 106Hz. The phase purity and microstructure of the sample have been studied by X-ray diffraction refinement and field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis. The appearance of resonance peaks in the loss tangent at high temperature is due to inherent dielectric relaxation processes of this oxide. The temperature dependent Cole-Cole plot has been studied in details to determine both the grain and grain boundary contribution to the conductivity. Electrical modulus analysis reveals that the hopping of charge carriers is the most probable conduction mechanism in BZT ceramics. The obtained data of AC conductivity obey the universal double power law and have been discussed in terms of microstructural network characteristics. The behavior of frequency exponent n of AC conductivity as a function of temperature verify the applicability of the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) model. The AC conductivity data are used to estimate the minimum hopping length, density of states at Fermi level, thermal conductivity and apparent activation energy. The value of activation energy confirms that the oxygen vacancies play a vital role in the conduction mechanism.
Measuring Efficiency of Nations in Multi Sport Events: A case of Commonwealth Games XIX
Authors: Debnath Roma Mitra , Malhotra Ashish
Published: May 2018

This paper used a data envelopment analysis (DEA) to measure the performance of the nations participating in the Commonwealth Games. To increase the consistency of the research, multiple models were employed to validate the result, but the nature of the input and output remained same throughout the paper. The objective of this study was to establish some realistic targets in terms of number of players for all participant countries and evaluations of their performance as well as benchmarks against the most efficient country. This study would help the nations optimize the size of their players to maximize the outcome in terms of the number of medals won in sporting events.
Similarities and Differences of Health-promoting Leadership and Transformational Leadership
Authors: Dunkl Anita , Jiménez Paul , Šarotar Žižek Simona , Milfelner Borut , Kallus Wolfgang K.
Published: May 2018

The concept of health-promoting leadership focuses on the interaction between the organization and the individual by identifying components able to positively influence employees’ working conditions. In the present study, the effects of health-promoting leadership and transformational leadership on the employees’ recovery–stress balance are investigated. In an online study, 212 Slovenian workers were asked about their perceptions of their direct supervisors and their work-related stress and recovery. The results showed that both leadership styles have a significant effect on employees’ recovery at the workplace, which mediated the relationship between leadership and work-related stress.
Measurements of doses from photon beam irradiation and scattered neutrons in an anthropomorphic phantom model of prostate cancer: a comparison between 3DCRT, IMRT and tomotherapy
Authors: Kowalik Anna , Jackowiak Weronika , Malicki Julian , Skórska Małgorzata , Adamczyk Marta , Konstanty Ewelina , Piotrowski Tomasz , Polaczek-Grelik Kinga
Published: May 2018

Introduction. The rapid development of new radiotherapy technologies, such as intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) or tomotherapy, has resulted in the capacity to deliver a more homogenous dose in the target. However, the higher doses associated with these techniques are a reason for concern because they may increase the dose outside the target. In the present study, we compared 3DCRT, IMRT and tomotherapy to assess the doses to organs at risk (OARs) resulting from photon beam irradiation and scattered neutrons.

Material and methods. The doses to OARs outside the target were measured in an anthropomorphic Alderson phantom using thermoluminescence detectors (TLD 100) 6Li (7.5%) and 7Li (92.5%). The neutron fluence rate [cm−2·s−1] at chosen points inside the phantom was measured with gold foils (0.5 cm diameter, mean surface density of 0.108 g/cm3).

Results. The doses [Gy] delivered to the OARs for 3DCRT, IMRT and tomotherapy respectively, were as follows: thyroid gland (0.62 ± 0.001 vs. 2.88 ± 0.004 vs. 0.58 ± 0.003); lung (0.99 ± 0.003 vs. 4.78 ± 0.006 vs. 0.67 ± 0.003); bladder (80.61 ± 0.054 vs. 53.75 ± 0.070 vs. 34.71 ± 0.059); and testes (4.38 ± 0.017 vs. 6.48 ± 0.013 vs. 4.39 ± 0.020). The neutron dose from 20 MV X-ray beam accounted for 0.5% of the therapeutic dose prescribed in the PTV. The further from the field edge the higher the contribution of this secondary radiation dose (from 8% to ~45%).

Conclusion. For tomotherapy, all OARs outside the therapeutic field are well-spared. In contrast, IMRT achieved better sparing than 3DCRT only in the bladder. The photoneutron dose from the use of high-energy X-ray beam constituted a notable portion (0.5%) of the therapeutic dose prescribed to the PTV.
Price Clustering and Price Barriers: International Evidence
Authors: Chen Tao
Published: May 2018

In this paper, I try to complement the existing literature by empirically examining the effect of price clustering and price barriers based on the international stock market. Evidence suggests that a strong effect of clustering and barriers is observed on last digit 0. Such effect is not robust and persistent on last digit 5. In addition, the cross-country analysis shows that price clustering and barriers become intensified in countries with a more transparent and open environment.
Cartographic image of immaterial elements in a city on the example of city maps of Warsaw from 1641 until the end of the 19th century
Authors: Weszpiński Paweł E.
Published: May 2018

The article discusses the problem of cartographic presentation of immaterial elements of city space. On the example of old city maps of Warsaw from the period between 1641 and the end of the 19th century, the image of objects and places in Warsaw is linked to the image of activities happening in them, or in connection with them. The author presents results of the analysis of the methods of presentation of immaterial elements, distinguishing three most numerous groups of them: nomenclature, functions and significance of objects, and property and administrative issues. The conclusions base on the analysis of 61 general city maps of Warsaw covering the whole city, elaborated in the periods 1641–1800, 1801–1900, and, supplementary, 1901–1939.
Quantitative assessment of the scope of content of selected topographic maps of Polish lands from the 19th and the first half of the 20th century
Authors: Panecki Tomasz
Published: May 2018

The author presents an overview of the scope of content of selected topographic maps of Polish lands from the 19th and the first half of the 20th century in its quantitative aspect. 19 maps were analysed and a common conceptual model linked to the Database of Topographic Objects (DBTO10k) was developed on the basis of catalogues of object types. Quantitative statistics were also prepared for the object types from maps before and after harmonization. Differences between their numbers within the same maps reflect the conceptual variety of said maps. The number of types of objects (before and after harmonization) was then juxtaposed with selected thematic layers: water network, transport network, land cover, buildings, structures, and equipment, land use complexes, localities and other objects. Such factors as scales, publication dates and topographic services which created analysed maps were also taken into consideration. Additionally, the analysed maps demonstrate uneven levels of generalization. Inclusion of objects typical for large-scale cartography on topographic and general maps is one of the distinctive features.
Considerations on Relation between Philosophy of Sport and Common Sense Thinking
Authors: Kosiewicz Jerzy
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this presentation is not to elaborate on the meaning of the common sense thinking and common sense in relation to cognition sensu stricto that is, in relation to scientific cognition. This topic has already been sufficiently covered in a concise and synchronous way. The focus of this presentation is mainly on selective manifestations of common sense thinking and their penetration of the philosophy in general, as well as the philosophy of sport in particular.
NHL Heavyweights: Narratives of Violence and Masculinity in Ice Hockey
Authors: Tjønndal Anne
Published: May 2018

Sport is often considered a masculine area of social life, and few sports are more commonly associated with traditional norms of masculinity than ice hockey. Ice hockey is played with a great level of intensity and body contact. This is true for both men and women’s hockey. However, men’s ice hockey in particular has been subjected to criticism for its excessive violence. Sport has also been analyzed as an arena where boys and men learn masculine values, relations, and rituals, and is often linked to orthodox masculinity in particular. Tolerance for gender diversity and diverse forms of masculinity has generally increased during the last 30 years. However, orthodox masculinity seems to maintain a dominate position in sports, particularly in hyper-masculine sports such as ice hockey. In this article, narratives of masculinity and violence in professional ice hockey are a central focus. Through a narrative analysis of the biographies of two former National Hockey League (NHL) players, Bob Probert and Derek Boogaard, this article explores how narratives of masculinity and violence among hockey players have been described and how these narratives tell stories of the interplay between masculinity and violence in modern sport. The analysis illustrates how the narratives of the lives and careers of these athletes provide insight into the many personal risks and implications athletes in highly masculine sporting environments face. The analysis also illustrates how the common acceptance (and sometimes encouragement) of player violence and ‘violence against the self’ in ice hockey has led to many broken bodies, lives, and careers among professional male athletes.
The symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with diabetic foot treated with hyperbaric oxygen - preliminary results
Authors: Koźmin-Burzyńska Agnieszka , Bratek Agnieszka , Knefel Grzegorz , Krysta Krzysztof , Kawecki Marek , Krupka-Matuszczyk Irena
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to assess the level of anxiety and depressiveness in patients who had qualified for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for the treatment of ulcerative lesions in the lower limbs, occurring as a result of diabetic foot syndrome (DFS),. A total of 50 patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic foot syndrome were enrolled to the study. All patients have received 30 sessions of HBOT. During the therapy blood glucose was measured and photographic documentation was carried out. All patients underwent the following procedures: medical history and socioeconomic interview, psychiatric examination, self-report and objective psychometric tests to measure anxiety and depressiveness. Based on the obtained results, we reported that patients with a greater degree of tissue damage had higher levels of depressive symptoms in the self-report tests as well as in the objective evaluation of the investigator. In terms of location of ulcerative lesions - the level of depressiveness was greater when the affected area included toes, and the level of anxiety was increased when it concerned the heel. Regarding other parameters, statistically significant correlations were not observed.
Nurse profession - what are the opportunities for the young nursing graduates in modern Poland
Authors: Radosz Zuzanna , Paplaczyk Małgorzata
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Young graduates of nursing have a number of opportunities. This is mainly due to the staff shortages in the health sector.

Aim. The aim of the thesis was the review of the literature related to the career paths of nurses, the migration of nursing staff, their motivation and the nursing staff field analysis.

Conclusions. The article also deals with issues related to the image of a nurse in Poland. Polish nursing is currently grappling with many problems, and one of them is the migration of Polish nurses. Another one is a possibility of the development of nurses. Young nursing graduates are aware of the fact that the world is their oyster. They are awaiting the encouragement from the Polish employer. In addition, development opportunities should also be provided by employers, allowing their employees free courses and training. However, the reality is different.

Summary. The thesis includes dilemmas and problems with which young graduates of nursing deal with, and raises the question what opportunities are provided for them not only by the employer but also by the whole health system.
The importance of body mechanics and the impact of nursing lifestyle
Authors: Wanless Stephen
Published: May 2018

Nursing staff experience more low back pain than many other groups, the incidence varies among countries. Work activities involving bending, twisting, frequent heavy lifting, awkward static posture and psychological stress are regarded as causal factors for many back injuries. Preventive measures should be taken to reduce the risk of lower back pain, such as arranging proper rest periods, educational programmes to teach the proper use of body mechanics and lifestyle change programmes.
System of nursing education and activity of nursing organisations in Germany – experience from 5th European Meeting of Nursing Students in Magdeburg
Authors: Bąk Jadwiga , Bieniak Monika , Chrzan-Rodak Agnieszka , Kuszplak Barbara , Kuszplak Kamil , Łukasiewicz Agata , Makuch Daria , Mazurek Paulina , Mazur Paulina , Zych Magdalena , Borończyk Beata , Dobrowolska Beata
Published: May 2018

Introduction. On 20-26 October 2017, nursing students representing the Medical University of Lublin had a chance to take part in the fifth European Meeting and Conference of Nursing Students in Magdeburg.

Aim. This manuscript is aimed at analyzing the nurses' education system in Germany and presenting the activities of the German Nurses Association (DBfK).

Summary. There are several paths of education for nurses in Germany, academic education is one of the options. Nurses associated in the German Nursing Association (DBfK) strive to increase the interest of nurses in tertiary education, as well as make efforts to create a nursing self-government.
The body self in women who practice aikido
Authors: Halik Anna , Kochan-Wójcik Marta
Published: May 2018

Our thesis explores the experience of corporeality by women who practice aikido. The categories used by those women to describe their body self and its functions were analyzed. In order to explore the subject, quality research was implemented in the framework of grounded theory. Five women comprised the research group, all of whom had been practicing Birankai Aikido for nine or more years. Semi-structured interviews were carried out. Each interview contained five areas referring to practicing aikido, corporality, behavior and the connection between practicing aikido and corporality. Three areas emerged referring to the corporality construct, namely the body, emotions, and interpersonal contacts. The fields of the body and emotions were dominated by a functional dimension, whereas in the field of interpersonal contacts we noted a particularly strong feeling of group affiliation. Participants also displayed a strong need for self-realization, self-control, and persistence. The data collected give sufficient grounds for arguing that women who practice aikido on a regular basis tend to focus on the functional aspects of their bodies and emotions. In so doing they seem to motivate themselves to achieving greater self-realization in the process of studying martial arts.
Young adults in corporations – psychological labour costs and their correlates based on some empirical research studies
Authors: Ślazyk-Sobol Magdalena
Published: May 2018

This article raises the issue of psychological labor costs comprehended – in line with the conceptualization by Maslach and Leiter – as symptoms of occupational burnout: emotional exhaustion, cynicism, low self-efficacy as experienced by young adults employed in one of the Lower Silesian biotechnological corporations. The author presents some correlative research studies and their results based on research conducted on a group of 80 specialist employees including 10 managers, covering their experience of burnout symptoms and also its correlates, such as global and organisational self-esteem. The research studies presented here are part of a larger research project which also includes some diagnosis on corporate culture and its organisational climate. Above all their results show an alarming levels of cynicism and emotional exhaustion experienced by these employees, together with their high global self-esteem and medium organisational self-esteem.
Speciation in Thrips tabaci Lindeman, 1889 (Thysanoptera): the current state of knowledge and its consequences
Authors: Fail József
Published: May 2018

Based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial COI gene,Thrips tabacihas been divided into three lineages: a tobacco-associated (T) and two leek-associated types (L1, L2). It is believed that the arrhenotokous leek-associated type (L1) is the ancient form ofT. tabaciand that the T type diverged from it and adapted to solanaceous host plants. The third lineage ofT. tabaci, the so-called thelytokous leek-associated type (L2) and the L1 form share many host plants. According to a recent study, the L2 form ofT. tabacicould outcompete the L1 type on cabbage plants; it might therefore be more accurate to identify it as the thelytokous cabbage-associated type.
Cardiac abnormalities in anorexia nervosa inpatients – a retrospective study
Authors: Mohee Kevin , Karthigeyan Amalan , Wheatcroft Stephen B. , Kucharska Katarzyna
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a life-threatening condition, with significant risk of death due to cardiac abnormalities.

Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate for QTc interval or heart rate (HR) abnormalities in AN patients and any correlation between BMI, HR and QTc interval at baseline and at completion of treatment.

Material and methods. 30 patients (29 females, 1 male) aged 16 to 45 years with a diagnosis of AN were retrospectively analyzed from January 2012 to September 2014. An ECG, biochemical tests, BMI and clinical assessment were performed on admission. ECG and BMI were also repeated at discharge.

Results. A paired t-test was used to compare two sets of scores that come from the same participants on both admission and discharge. The mean baseline BMI was 14.8 +/− 4 kg/m2, baseline HR was 53.4 +/− 16 bpm and QTc interval 416 +/− 40 ms. At discharge, mean BMI was 18.7 +/− 2 kg/m2, HR was 73 +/− 11 bpm and QTc interval 402 +/− 34. The mean QTc interval was decreased by 14 ms and the HR increased by 19 beats/min. A Wilcoxon test showed that the treatment course did not elicit a statistically significant change in HR score in individuals with AN (Z=−4, p=0.000). Pearson correlations showed that patients with a higher magnesium had lower heart rate on admission (r=−0.61; p=0.002).

Conclusion. Further exploration is needed in a larger population to investigate for etiology and medical management of cardiac abnormalities in AN.
The impact of medical knowledge on attitudes towards the use of OTC drugs
Authors: Kołłątaj Barbara , Sowa Magda , Kołłątaj Witold , Książek Piotr , Szakuła Justyna
Published: May 2018

Introduction. In many countries, the concept of OTC drugs, among others, is defined in advance by the assumed maximum period of their use – usually 3-5 days. In fact, many patients often benefit from these opportunities too often, use medication for longer than 3-5 days and prefer symptomatic treatment rather than causal. OTC drugs give people a sense of freedom and subjectivity. Numerous doctors claim that too much freedom in this case can prove dangerous.

Aim. The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in attitudes towards the use of OTC drugs in medicine students as they acquire knowledge and medical experience.

Material and methods. The study looked at 178 students of the Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin (89 – 1 and 2 year students as well 89 – 5 and 6 year ones). A diagnostic survey was used as a tool for obtaining responses from the participants. The survey was conducted between October 2014 and November 2014.

Results. Almost 90% of medical students use OTC drugs for self-medication, while only 11% of them have never used such medicine. Analysis of students’ attitudes indicate that acquired medical knowledge has no effect on the frequency using this type of treatment. Overall, students tend to use such drugs occasionally. Only some 14-23% of them use the OTC drugs on a regular basis. The motivations for the use such drugs include: convenience, the previous experiences implying the efficacy of drugs, less frequent are other reasons. Some 28% of the students participating in the study and at least 13% of graduating medical students accept prolonged use of OTC drugs. As the consequence acquisition of medical knowledge, the students are less likely to consult their self-medication attitudes with doctors, families and friends, more often and accurately read the leaflets for drugs, and are more and more reluctant to proposals for extending the assortment of available OTC drugs.

Conclusions. 1. Almost 90% of medical students use OTC drugs for self-treatment. 2. 28% of polled 1-2 year medical students and at least 13% of graduating ones may have tendencies to abuse drugs. 3. Over the subsequent years of study, medical students more often read medicine leaflets, they become less reliant on the advice they receive from their family or friends regarding self-treatment or they are less willing to extend the range of available OTC drugs.
Dental caries prevalence in patients treated by dentistry students at a university dental clinic
Authors: Alrifai Mosa , Alhadi Ahmed , Alhadi Mohammed , Aldarweesh Ahmed , Aleid Abdulaziz , Alshehri Fatimah , Chałas Renata
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Dental caries is a serious problem affecting numerous populations around the world. During the last decade, there was a significant increase of its prevalence in many countries. Hence, the dental epidemiological status requires some further analysis.

Aim. This study was designed to assess the prevalence of dental caries among adults of various age and gender groups treated by dental students of English Division at the Chair and Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics of the Medical University of Lublin.

Material and methods. The authors collected and analyzed the dental history of patients who had been treated at the university dental clinic in Lublin throughout 2013 and 2014.

Results and Conclusions. The mean DMFT index of examined group of patients increases with age and it tends to be higher in women than men. Class I dental caries according to Black’s classification was the most prevalent, followed by class II, class III, class V and class IV. Caries tends to affect molars and premolars most commonly. In addition, these teeth were most likely to be extracted and restored.
Comparative analysis of opinions of Warsaw Medical University students on electronic examinations and final tests by their participation in this form of knowledge assessment – preliminary report
Authors: Gotlib Joanna , Panczyk Mariusz , Gębski Piotr , Zarzeka Aleksander , Iwanow Lucyna , Dąbrowski Filip , Dykowska Grażyna , Malczyk Marcin
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Apart from the increasing popularity of modern information technologies and the development of e-learning methods used for teaching medicine and health sciences, there was a spike of interest in using modern computer techniques for checking students’ knowledge.

Aim. The aim of the study was to compare the opinions of students of Medical University of Warsaw about the examinations and final tests conducted using the e-exam ASK Systems platform, measured by their participation in this form of assessmen knowledge.

Material and methods. 148 students; group 1 comprised students participating in an e-exam (59 persons) and group 2 included students not participating in an e-exam (89 persons). A voluntary, anonymous questionnaire study, electronic questionnaire, 58 statements measured using the Likert scale. Questionnaire reliability assessment: analysis of internal consistency with Cronbach’s Alfa coefficient (α>0.70). Statistical analysis: STATISTICA 12.0 licensed to WMU, Mann-Whitney U test.

Results. Cronbach’s α coefficient for the scale amounted to 0.70. Members of group 1 were more likely to admit that students need to put in extra effort into participating in an e-exam (p<0.001) and that test results might be worse than in case of a regular exam (p<0.050). Group 1 significantly more often reported that the participation in an e-exam can cause additional examination stress (p<0.002) and makes cheating during exams more probable (p<0.003).

Conclusions. 1. An analysis of the questionnaire demonstrated that this tool is reliable and can be used in further studies. 2. The participation in an e-exam slightly influenced the opinions of students on this form of knowledge assessment, which may mean that the students’ expectations concerning e-exams were consistent with the actual course of the exam. Therefore, students do not need any special procedure to prepare for e-exams. 3. This was a pilot study and it needs to be continued among the same group of students before and after the e-exam.
Anxiety and stress in miscarriage
Authors: Kicia Mariola , Skurzak Agnieszka , Wiktor Krzysztof , Iwanowicz-Palus Grażyna , Wiktor Henryk
Published: May 2018

Miscarriage is defined as an adverse and unexpected termination of pregnancy before the completion of 22nd week of gestation. Currently, abortion is the most common early reproductive failure. In Poland, more than 40 000 pregnant women a year lose pregnancy due to various reasons. There are many reports in literature on the risk of somatic consequences of miscarriage, while extra-somatic complications resulting from exposure to the strong influence of anxiety and stress, such as, for example: depression and psychosomatic disorders have not been paid too much attention to, yet. Abortion is accompanied by stress and a lot of negative emotions, such as anxiety. They may intensify both due to hospitalization and the need to implement treatment. These negative emotions destroy cognitive power of women, depriving them of their confidence, they can exacerbate the sense of danger, lead to stress and hinder treatment.