bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction of the Community Rehabilitation Northern Queensland Service
Authors: Mervin Merehau Cindy , Barker Ruth , Stealey Cindy , Comans Tracy
Published: February 2019

Objective: To analyse trends in length of hospital stay before and after the implementation of the Community Rehabilitation Northern Queensland Service (CRNQ) in Townsville, Australia.

Design: Retrospective analysis of collected administrative data provided by the data custodian Townsville Hospital Health Service District.

Setting: All patients discharged from the Townsville hospital between 1 July 2008 and 30 June 2013 for whom the Australian Refined Diagnosis Related Groups were stroke (B70), degenerative nervous system disorders (B67) or rehabilitation (Z60).

Main outcome measures: Average length of stay and total number of inpatient episodes coded stroke, degenerative nervous system disorders or rehabilitation.

Results: Length of stay for the selected diagnosis related groups was consistently ranging from 23 days to 25 days for the period 2008-2012. In the first year of full operational capacity of CRNQ (2012-13), there was an average reduction of six days in length of stay. The major reductions in length of stay occurred in patients admitted for rehabilitation care.

Conclusions: This study adds additional evidence that earlier discharge can be facilitated for patients with neurological conditions living outside metropolitan areas when appropriate rehabilitation services are available in the community.

Abbreviations: AR-DRG – Australian Refined Diagnosis Related Groups; CRNQ – Community Rehabilitation Northern Queensland Service.
Mainstreaming Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Insurance in India: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Trivedi Mayur , Raman A. Venkat
Published: February 2019

Millions of Indians fall into poverty because of the private high Out of Pocket pattern of health financing, due to the absence of insurance coverage. Conditions like HIV and AIDS also influence poverty due to a lifelongtreatment requirement. Access to insurance coverage (commercial or voluntary) has been denied to People Living with HIV (PLHIV) through various clauses. However lately, there have been certain experiments on inclusion of HIV into new or existing schemes. This paper provides a systematic review of coverage, managerial and financial systems of selected cases of HIV insurance pilots in India with an objective to explore its sustainability and ability to be replicated.

A cross-sectional descriptive analysis of existing literature and in-depth case studies of relevant health insurance schemes were used for the review. Data was compiled using qualitative data collection tools such as in-depth interviews with officials. The schemes were analysed using two frameworks viz. managerial ability and coverage ability. The managerial ability was analysed through a Strength-Weakness-Opportunity-Threat(SWOT) analysis. The coverage ability was analysed through three dimensions viz. a) breadth b) depth and c) height. In India, there are two types of insurance policies vis-à-vis HIV coverage. These were categorised as HIV-specific and HIV-sensitive policies.

Of the seven pilot schemes reviewed, the small-scale health insurance schemes show limited success owing to smaller pool and limited managerial capabilities. The large schemes offer avenues for mainstreaming butpose issues of governance as well as marketing among PLHIVs. The findings of the research identify a specific set of issues and challenges for sustainability and replication from three perspectives viz. a) market, b) cost recovery and sustainability and c) equitable coverage.

Abbreviations: AIDS – Acquired Immune Deficient Syndrome; ART - Anti-retroviral Therapy; BPL – Below Poverty Line; FF-HIP – Freedom Foundation Health Insurance Policy; HIV – Human Immunodeficiency Virus; IRDA – Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority; NGO – Non Government Organisation; PLHIV – People Living with HIV; OI – Opportunistic Infections; OOP – Out of Pocket; RSBY – Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana; STI – Sexually Transmitted Infection; SWOT – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats; UHC – Universal Health Coverage; UNDP – United Nations Development Program.
Cost of Waiting on an Orthopaedic Waiting List: a scoping review
Authors: Morris Joanne , Twizeyemariya Asterie , Grimmer Karen
Published: February 2019

Background: Approximately 30% Australians suffer from arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders. From 2003-2033 there is a predicted 223% increase in expenditure on health management of musculoskeletal disorders. There is evidence of increasing prevalence of orthopaedic complaints, in longer waiting lists for specialist consultations in public hospital outpatient clinics. Little is known about the costs and ramifications of waiting for orthopaedic consultations.

Aim: Establish what is known about the direct and indirect costs of being placed on a waiting list for an orthopaedic consultation.

Method: Patient and Outcome search strategy of Medline, Embase, Pubmed, NHS Economic evaluation database (NHS-EED) from each database inception date. Handsearching of reference lists of included papers alsooccurred. A realist synthesis framework underpinned the review, using a ubiquitous patient journey to map available literature on the impact of waiting. Hierarchy of evidence was reported using NHMRC criteria andarticles critically appraised using either the PEDRo or CASP criteria (relevant to the design). A purpose-built data extraction instrument was developed.

Results: We identified 786 studies, of which 139 were relevant, including a systematic review (Hoogeboom et al) with 15 included articles which were added to the list of eligible papers (and the review itself deleted), leaving 153 included articles; 17 were relevant to the review. Fourteen papers reported on quality of life and four reported on costs, two of these papers reported on both and all were of low to moderate quality. The research was not based on a comprehensive understanding of the stages of waiting, and there were inconclusive outcomes for quality of life and cost.

Conclusion: There is scant evidence of the impact on quality of life and costs of waiting for orthopaedic outpatient appointments. Future research should aim for improved methodological quality and use patientfocused quality of life measures, and validated measures of cost.

Abbreviations: NHMRC – National Health and Medical Research Council; PROMS – Patient Related Outcome Measures; QoL – Quality of Life; WOMAC – Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index; YLD – Years Lived With Disability
Health Workers’ Perspectives on Infrastructure to Support Maternal Health Services in Rural Areas of Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thi Hoai Thu , McDonald Fiona , Wilson Andrew
Published: February 2019

Background: One common governance issue faced by developing countries is the establishment and maintenance of infrastructure to support the delivery of primary health services. This qualitative study explores the perspective of maternal health workers on how infrastructure impacts the provision of maternity services in rural areas in Vietnam.

Methods: Forty-one health workers and health managers at the commune, district and provincial levels of the Vietnamese public health system were interviewed. Questions focused on the impact of various organisational factors, including the impact of infrastructure on the performance of the health workforce, which provides publicly funded primary care. All interviews were recorded, transcribed and coded for thematic analysis.

Findings: Participants noted that infrastructure directly affected their ability to perform certain tasks and could both directly and indirectly negatively impact their motivation. In general, participants noted a lack of investment in infrastructure for the provision of primary care services in rural areas. They identified that there were deficits in the availability of utilities and the adequacy of facilities.

Conclusion: This research contributes to understanding the barriers to the provision of primary care in developing countries and in particular. The current inadequacy of facility buildings and inadequacy of clean water supply are issues for health workers in meeting the technical requirements of the standards as set out in the National Guidelines on reproductive health, and lead to safety concerns for the quality of maternal health services provided in commune health centres and District Health Centres.

Abbreviations: CHC – Commune Health Centres; DHC – District Health Centre; HW – Health Worker.
Recipe for Success: localism and bounded rationality in lobbying for radiation therapy services in North West Tasmania
Authors: West Sancia , Shannon Elizabeth , Crisp Elaine , Barnett Tony
Published: February 2019

Objective: Describes where bounded rationality and localism are evident in the debate over the introduction of radiation therapy services in North West Tasmania and how this affected the delivery of the message fromeach side.

Design: Semi-structured interviews with stakeholders and patients/family over an eight month period in 2016 are contrasted with viewpoints identified via document analysis.Setting: North West Tasmania.

Main Outcome Measures: The mechanisms for policy change and the policy beliefs of each side are examined with the intention of understanding how bounded rationality and a sense of localism can combine to effectpolicy change.

Results: In the instance of radiation therapy services in North West Tasmania, a policy debate was originally waged between medical professionals and policy makers opposed to a local service on one side and a handful of policy actors advocating for a local service on the other. Those in favour of a local radiation therapy service harnessed a sense of localism to project the perception of widespread community support for the proposal and secured funding commitments during the 2010 Federal Election campaign.

Conclusions: There is evidence of bounded rationality from both the stakeholder and patient groups, as well as a strong sentiment of localism expressed by patients and community advocates. Through understanding this particular case, health service managers can determine how to better time and target messages to the general public and to policy makers during periods of proposed changes to health services.
A Comparison of Three Payment Systems for Public Paediatric Dental Services
Authors: Conquest Jennifer Hanthorn , Skinner John , Kruger Estie , Tennant Marc
Published: February 2019

Objective: This study investigated the delivery of paediatric (0-17 years) government dental services in New South Wales (NSW), Australia through public dental clinics and the commissioned payments models of Fee-for-Service and Capped-Fee. 

Method: De-identified patient data from government provided dental care and the commissioned services was sourced from NSW Oral Health Data Warehouse for evaluation and interpretation using descriptive analysis during the period 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2013. 

Result: The breakdown of dental care provided the associated cost analysis for the study’s cohort that resulted in both years, more than 50 percent dental services offered to paediatric patients were preventive care in all payment systems.  The most common preventive items offered were fluoride treatment, dietary advice, oral health education and fissure sealants.

Conclusion: There was little difference in the mix of dental care provided between study years and age groups through the three payment systems in NSW.  The difference between the government services and those provided via the Fee-for-Service and Capitation payment systems was negligible.

This has important implications for the delivery of dental care to public dental care, particularly when patients may not live close to a public dental clinic and also with the interest nationally in giving patients greater choice.
Service Navigators in the Workforce: an ethical framework for practice
Authors: Donovan Jennifer , Hampson Ralph , Connolly Marie
Published: February 2019

Aim and Context: This paper explores the current growth of service navigators in complex health and human services and details the development of the Service Navigation Relational Autonomy Framework as a guide to assist practitioners and managers implementing this role. 

Approach: The framework was developed using a research into action process. The three-stage process included knowledge inquiry: bringing together existing knowledge in practice fields and research; knowledge synthesis:debate and exchange of practitioner insights and messages from research; and knowledge framework: framework creation based on the key elements of evidence-informed best practice. Main findings: The framework centres on four practice domains: reinforcing ethical practices; fostering self-determination; supporting transitions and wellbeing; and mobilising service systems. It incorporates the concept of relational autonomy as a foundation for navigator practice by recognising the nature of relationships and power dynamics in the provision of care, and the central importance of self-determination. Conclusions: A navigation framework is critical for practice guidance and to ensure service navigators and organisations have the capacity to meet the needs of service users and their families. The framework presented in this paper seeks to encourage debate about service navigation, its implementation, and its future in health and human service organisations.
Evaluating Health Literacy Environments in Australian Health Services
Authors: Neil Sarah , Murphy Kylie , Chapman Glenda
Published: February 2019

The term ‘health literacy’ refers to the knowledge and skills used by an individual to make decisions about his or her own health. However, the environment in which health decisions are made is increasingly recognised as a critical component of health literacy. The health literacy environment can help to moderate the typical relationship between low individual health literacy and poor health. Becoming a more health literate healthcare organisation may require only meager financial investment for relatively large effectiveness gains. In this article, a review of Australian government health policies identifies three major foci relevant to the health literacy environment: the complexity of health services, the content of health information, and the physical environment. An overarching theme identified in this review is the importance of consumer input in evaluating all aspects of the health literacy environment. Despite major policy imperatives and the ongoing need to ensure health investments are socially equitable and cost-effective, there is little published evidence of Australian healthcare services evaluating their own health literacy environment. This article establishes the importance of evaluating the health literacy of Australian healthcare services and reviews four potentially useful evaluation tools.
How Are Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Approaches Used in Evaluating Management Development Programs? a literature review
Authors: Onnis Leigh-ann , Hakendorf Marcia , Tsey Komla
Published: February 2019

Aim: The aim of the review was to examine the characteristics of studies that use CQI approaches to evaluate management development programs; and to synthesise the findings to understand how CQI approaches are being used to evaluate the effectiveness of management development programs.  

Method: A scoping review of the literature was conducted in a manner consistent with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The matches were screened by title and abstract using the inclusion criteria, leading to a full paper review of 48 papers. Of these, the 14 papers found to meet the inclusion criteria for the scoping review were independently reviewed and analysed by two of the authors.

Findings: The review revealed the ways in which CQI approaches were used in evaluating management development programs highlighting the role of context, pre-determined competencies and participatory CQI approaches. Participatory CQI approaches including on-the-job application of learning provided opportunities for participants to learn through CQI activities associated with action learning and CQI feedback cycles.

Conclusions: The authors concluded that evaluations using participatory CQI approaches are better positioned to report more comprehensively on the benefits of management development programs when they include the competencies required to be successful in the context within which the manager is working.  Future directions for research in this area include an examination of the microsystem context to determine whether the required management competencies associated with remoteness differ from other contexts.
Health Reform: What have we learned and were to next!
Authors: Briggs David
Published: February 2019

Recently I was talking to a colleague of mine from Hong Kong and he reminded me that Hong Kong had had 28 years of health reform. A period just slightly longer than we had known each other. We are deeply imbued in the management and organisation of health services and health systems and, therefore public health policy. He suggested that there should be a lot of learning for us all from that period and, he was exploring how that might happen. I agreed with the idea and the need to think it through. I also recognised potential for the Journal to play some role in that suggestion. Most national health systems have undergone extensive reform so there should be a lot of learning for all of us from that reform.....
PENGARUH LINGKUNGAN SOSIAL TERHADAP IMAJINASI ANAK
Authors: Gunadi Andi Ahmad
Published: February 2019

The purposes of this study are: (1) to know the role of parents, teachers, peers, and society in the life of a child, 2) to know the development of imagination in children, 3) to know the social environment factor can influence the child's imagination. The formulation of the issue is whether the social environment affects the child's imagination? This research is descriptive quantitative research methods of correlation. X variable in this study is the social environment, the variable Y is Imagination. The population in this study is third grade students of State Elementary School. The result of the study is for homogeneity, comparing Fcount with Ftable the distribution Ftable, 0123<1.94 means homogeneous. To test for normality using K-S test, the social environment variables in mind that the value of quintile testers with α= 0.05 and n= 30 is 0.242, the highest value of 0.156. Ho accepted means Ha rejected due 0.156<0.242. The conclusion of the study is the normal distribution of the social environment at α= 0.05. The variable imagination of the students known that the quintile testers with α= 0.05 and n= 30 is 0.242, the highest value of 0.197. Ho accepted means Ha rejected due 0.197<0.242. The conclusion of the students imagination with normal distribution at α= 0.05. For a simple linear statistical test with product moment knowable Y=53.67+1.03X, of F=0.127 and Ftable =5.79, Fcount <Ftable is the linear regression. Finally, there is the influence of social environment on the imagination of the students.
UPAYA MENINGKATKAN AKTIVITAS HASIL BELAJAR SISWA PADA MATERI PECAHAN DENGAN PENDEKATAN CONTEXTUAL TEACHING AND LEARNING KELAS IV SDN SUMUR 03
Authors: Pukjiwati Pukjiwati
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a science learning outcomes in Operation Count Fraction In Problem Solving in Elementary School fourth grade Sumur 03, Subdistrict Cluwak, Pati. In the first semester of the school year 2016/2017 This research is a classroom action research to solve the problem of whether the approach CTL can improve student learning outcomes. PTK lasted until 2 cycles, each cycle consisting of (1) planning, (2) actions, (3) of observation, and (4) reflection. The fourth connection is regarded as one cycle. Collection and use of technical documentation, observation and testing, data collection tools such as document journal learning, observation sheets and test items. Data analysis using descriptive comparative by comparing baseline data of the first cycle and the second cycle data followed by reflection. The study of 18 students learning the standard minimum value of 65, which means that students who have reached a value above 65 otherwise been completed. Furthermore, students who achieve a value of less than or equal to 65 otherwise unresolved in learning and need to get improvements in learning. From the research results at the end of the lesson formative tests turned out of 18 students who achieve grades above completeness only 8 students, if diprosentase students who otherwise completed only 35%. So unresolved reached 65%. The conclusion of the research approach CTL can improve the quality of student learning outcomes of the Mathematics of Operations Troubleshooting Count Fraction in fourth grade elementary school Sumur 03, District Cluwak, Pati regency, through the medium of learning and teaching.
PENINGKATAN HASIL BELAJAR SISWA ASPEK KOGNITIF DAN PSIKOMOTORIK DALAM MEMBUAT SKETSA DAN PETA WILAYAH YANG MENGGAMBARKAN OBJEK GEOGRAFI MELALUI METODE SURVEI LAPANGAN
Authors: Kristiningtyas Woro
Published: February 2019

This study aims to increase student learning of cognitive and psychomotor aspects in making sketches and maps of the area that describes the object of geography in class VII B SMP N 2 Jakenan. The research was conducted inside and outside the classroom to conduct a field survey around the school and village offices Glonggong. The research subject is class VIIB conducted with two cycle cycles, each cycle consisting of planning, acting, observing and reflecting. The research proves that the application of a field survey methods can improve student learning outcomes on cognitive aspects with an average grade of 53.32 - 69.19 to 78.55; psychomotor aspect was no increase in the average grade of 58.00 to 70.81 - 79.52 with indicators increase students' ability to collect data, geography placing objects in the image, complete the elements of sketches and maps of the area and were able to finish the sketches and maps of the area the aesthetic value according to the rules cartographical correct. It is concluded that the cognitive aspects of student learning outcomes and psychomotor aspects can be improved through a field survey methods.
PENGEMBANGAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN MOBILE LEARNING BERBASIS ANDROID MATA PELAJARAN IPA UNTUK SISWA SMP
Authors: Ibrahim Nurwahyuningsih , Ishartiwi Ishartiwi
Published: February 2019

This study aims to (1) produce learning media based on android mobile learning (2) to know the level of feasibility of learning media according to material experts, media experts, and users, (3) to know the effectiveness of learning media to improve the learning outcomes of junior high school students. This development study follows the steps developed by Alessi and Trollip consisting of three stages: planning, designing and development. Initial product validated by media expert and material expert then revised. The next stage is a small group beta test carried out to six prospective users, and tested to 32 users. Furthermore sumative test against 32 students. The results showed that (1) android-based mobile learning products packaged in android package format (apk) using helios eclips software. (2) mobile learning product is considered feasible as a learning media based on the assessment of media experts 3,8 and material experts 4.3 with the category of "very good". (3) the effectiveness of the product is evidenced by the increase of learning outcomes to reach the average score of pretest score 65.46 and posttest of 79.53
META-ANALISIS PENGARUH MODEL PEMBELAJARAN ROLE PLAYING TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR IPS
Authors: Kristin Firosalia
Published: February 2019

Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menganalisis kembali penggunaan model pembelajaran role playing dalam meningkatkan hasil belajar IPS.  Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah meta analisis. Penelitian diawali dengan merumuskan masalah penelitian, menelusuri hasil penelitian yang relevan untuk dianalisis. Data dikumpulkan dengan menelusuri jurnal elektronik melalui Google Scholar dengan kata kunci “hasil belajar”, “bermain peran”, “pembelajaran IPS SD”. Dari penelusuran itu diperoleh 86 artikel tetapi yang relevan hanya 12 artikel dari jurnal. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan analisis deskriptif kualitatif. Berdasarkan hasil analisis model pembelajaran role playing mampu meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa mulai dari yang terendah 1,65% sampai yang tertinggi 64,32% dengan rata-rata 23,32%.
DAMPAK MENONTON SERIAL ANIMASI DORA THE EXPLORER TERHADAP TINGKAT KONSENTRASI SISWA SEKOLAH DASAR
Authors: Wakhyudin Husni , Ningrum Dian Novita
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this research is to know the impact of watching animated series Dora The Explorer to the level of student concentration in SD Negeri Tinjomoyo 01 Semarang. The approach used in this research is qualitative descriptive research approach that is research that describes events or phenomena with data in the form of information or words. Qualitative approach is expected to produce a deep description of the words, writings and behavior observed from an individual, groups, communities and organizations in a given contextual situation studied in a comprehensive, holistic and holistic perspective. This approach is used to describe and describe the focus of research, namely the analysis of the impact of watching the animated series Dora The Explorer to the level of student concentration. The emergence of student learning behavior in this study researchers can describe as follows: the emergence of student cognitive behavior as many as 30 students, as many as 30 students, the appearance of psychomotor behavior of students as much as 35 students and the appearance of language behavior as many as 29 students. So it can be said that the concentration level of students when the animated series Dora The Explorer animation is high.
MODEL MANAJEMEN MUTU TERPADU BERBASIS MULTIPLE INTELEGENCE PADA SEKOLAH DASAR UNGGULAN DI KABUPATEN JEPARA
Authors: Setiardi Dicky , Munir Muhammad Misbahul
Published: February 2019

This research is a study of qualitative descriptive. It was carried out at the Jepara Bumi Kartini Primary School. The instrument technique used to collect the data is by interviewing, observing and documentation. The prominent resources is headschool respon, teachers, employees,committee, and the organization of management in primary school of Unggulan Terpadu Bumi Kartini, that collected by essay document, video record/audio tape/MP3 and documetation.  The data analysis was carried out at the preliminary study stage, data development and validation stages.The results of the study showed that the application of integrated quality management based on multiple intellegence in the Primary School of Unggulan Bumi Kartini of Jepara Kartini was more aim towards mathematical logical intelligence. Several efforts can be done to implement integreted quality management based on multiple intellegence in other intelligences is by synergizing in the form of good management governance including the availability of human resources, availability of facilities and infrastructure, a conducive environment, updated curriculum, as well as the role of school committees and society participation in implementing integrated quality management based on multiple intellegence, so as to improve the quality of students who will ultimately create excellent schools.
Palanga’s Modern Architecture on the Way to Heritage
Authors: Nekrošius Liutauras , Riaubienė Edita
Published: February 2019

This paper discusses particular aspects of the development of cultural identity through diverse, multi-layered architectural heritage and argues that by combining architectural expertise with community engagement the inclusive modernist heritage collection can be created. The research is based on the case of Palanga resort. The paper focuses on the issue of creating a list of cultural heritage of Palanga town as a coherent and continuous architectural collection and discusses the approaches to be used in engaging communities into the process of heritage making.

Considering the post-colonial society and its multiple relationship with the built environment of that time in Lithuania, the changed needs and requirements, and today’s high commercial interest, it is essential to find effective ways for the protection and further development of heritage of the recent past.
Papillon-Lefévre syndrome: Case report and genetic analysis
Authors: Uzun Tugcenur , Toptas Orcun
Published: February 2019

Background/Aim: Papillon Lefévre syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis. The characteristic findings of the disease are early loss of primary and permanent teeth and palmoplantar keratoderma. Notwithstanding that many etiologic factors like genetic mutations, bacterial agents, immunologic changes have been identified, the pathogenesis has not been fully understood. Although dentists play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of Papillon Lefévre syndrome, it is appropriate to treat the disease with a multidisciplinary approach. Case Report: In this case report, the clinical, radiological and genetic examination of the patient with Papillon Lefévre syndrome who has a homozygous mutation in the CTSC gene will be presented. Conclusions: Dentists should have knowledge about treatment management of these patients. Teeth can be preserved longer with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of the disease.
Air temperature anomalies in experimental forests in Rogów in 1924–2015
Authors: Chojnacka-Ożga Longina , Ożga Wojciech
Published: February 2019

Meteorological measurements, that aim to monitor weather and climate conditions to aid research in changing forest ecosystems, have been conducted in the Warsaw University of Life Sciences’ experimental forests in Rogów since 1924. Based on the long-term air temperature measurements, it can be demonstrated that in the years 1924–2015, anomalously cold months have occurred less often (ca. 3.2%) than anomalously warm months (ca. 4.5%). During the last 20 years, only two anomalously cold months were recorded (November 1998, December 2010), whereas anomalously warm months occurred frequently (May 2002, July 1999, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2012, 2014, August 2002, 2015, September 1999, 2006, October 2000, 2001). We hypothesised that the more frequent anomalously warm months would constitute a trend in increasing the air temperature for particular months between 1924–2015, but surprisingly, a statistically significant trend was observed for all winter (XII–II) and spring months (III–IV) as well as the end of summer (VIII).
Spatial variability of CO2 fluxes from meadow and forest soils in western part of Wzniesienia Łódzkie (Łódź Hills)
Authors: Wroński Krzysztof Tadeusz
Published: February 2019

For this study, the rate of soil respiration was estimated based on monthly measurements of 20 research points representing different types of plant communities. Meadows were found to have the highest rates of soil respiration, whereas rates measured in forests were lower. However, the seasonality of leaf and pine needle decomposition caused large variation in the CO2 fluxes from forest soils. Furthermore, the carbon content at both, the soil surface and 5 cm below ground, affected spatial differentiation of soil respiration in summer and autumn, while the carbon content at 5 cm below ground also affects the spatial variability of annual CO2 fluxes from the soil. Amazingly, however, results of research indicate that the carbon content throughout the whole humus layer does not impact soil respiration. It was also observed that changes in relief affected rates of soil respiration due to differences in sunlight exposure and the history of land use, which can markedly reduce the impact of the carbon content at 5 cm below ground on soil respiration.
The influence of atmospheric light scattering on reflectance measurements during photogrammetric survey flights at low altitudes over forest areas
Authors: Mazur Anna , Kacprzak Mariusz , Kubiak Katarzyna , Kotlarz Jan , Skocki Krzysztof
Published: February 2019

In this article, we describe methods for the correction of multispectral aerial images by accounting for atmospheric interference. We also summarize the first correction results for images acquired at flight altitudes and evaluate the suitability of selected methods for the atmospheric correction of these images. Furthermore, processes and phenomena occurring in the atmosphere that potentially affect image quality and interfere with the electromagnetic radiation registered by the imaging sensors are discussed as well. The purpose of atmospheric correction is to reduce or eliminate atmospheric interference during multispectral image processing. Here we present methodology for image correction based on data gathered at various altitudes during the autumn flights conducted as a part of the HESOFF project.
Determining the conversion factors for selected lengths of medium-sized pine and spruce wood in the S2 group
Authors: Witkowska Joanna , Jodłowski Krzysztof
Published: February 2019

The aim of the study was to verify the commonly used conversion factors, their realignment and adaptation to current requirements for wood group S2. Our re-evaluation was based on medium-sized pine and spruce wood between 1 m and 3 m long, with an upper diameter of 5 cm to 24 cm without bark. Measurements were carried out on individual raw material pieces (rollers) as well as entire stacks. In total, 1092.026 steres of pine wood and 482.430 steres of spruce wood from five different forest districts were measured. The conversion factors for both pine and spruce were observed to be generally lower than those currently used in PN-D-95000-2002 and the directives of the General Director of State Forests regarding technical requirements on medium-sized round wood. We also confirmed the dependence between the value of the conversion factor and the average diameter of the roller in the stack, although this was not consistently statistically significant due to the influence of a multitude of factors that potentially cancel each other out. The differences of conversion factors obtained for the S2A and S2B groups suggest that more extensive research for pine and spruce wood as well as the development of separate conversion factors is necessary. However, developing appropriate conversion factors for wood of the S2A group (S2AC and S2AP), especially pine wood, will be challenging due to the large range of diameters and curvature permitted by the regulations.
Forest policy goals in Poland in light of the current forestry aims in Europe Part 1. Forest policy processes in Europe
Authors: Kaliszewski Adam
Published: February 2019

The Polish “National Forest Policy” was adopted by the Council of Ministers in April 1997 and since then no revisions of this document have been made. However, over the last two decades policy changes affecting forests and forestry have been implemented worldwide including Europe. Nonetheless, in more recent years, significant changes in social, economic, institutional, and legal aspects of forestry have also occurred in Poland.

This paper is the first of a series of five articles, which aim at highlighting necessary changes in the “National Forest Policy” following the achievements of European forest policy processes and trends in forest policy of selected European countries. The focus of the present paper are the most important European processes of forest policy formulation, in particular the Ministerial Conference on the Protection of Forests in Europe (Forest Europe process) as well as forest-focused and forest-related polices of the European Union. Included in this research are the Forest Europe resolutions as well as decisions and EU policies, strategies and legal acts in terms of the general objectives set for forests and forestry. The analysis focuses on the period 1997–2016, i.e. starting from the year the “National Forest Policy” has been adopted. The conclusions of this first paper are that in recent years, forests and forestry have been increasingly included in various sectoral policies of the European Union (environmental and biodiversity protection, climate, energy, agricultural polices), which requires the member states to revise and adjust their own forest-related regulations and policies.
Pleistocene mammal fauna of the Trlica locality, Montenegro
Authors: Agadzhanyan Alexandre K. , Vislobokova Inesa A. , Shunkov Mikhail V. , Ulyanov V. A.
Published: February 2019

The paper presents new evidence on the small and large mammal fauna from the Trlica locality, Montenegro, based on our records from the 2010 – 2014 excavations. It is shown that the lower layers of the locality correspond to the Early Pleistocene, and the upper layers are dated as the beginning of the Middle Pleistocene. The results obtained allow us to characterize the environment in which the oldest hominid migrants dwelt in this region of South-Eastern Europe. Within the interval 1.8–1.5 Ma, there was a relatively cool climate in the region. At the beginning of the Middle Pleistocene, the climate became milder; the areas occupied by forests, including broad-leaved forests, increased. The presence of Lagurini throughout the section is evidence of the existence of local areas of steppe in northern Montenegro during the Early Pleistocene and first half of the Middle Pleistocene.
Revised floral and faunal assemblages from Late Pleistocene deposits of the Gánovce-Hrádok Neanderthal site – biostratigraphic and palaeoecological implications
Authors: Sabol Martin , Slyšková Diana , Bodoriková Silvia , Čejka Tomáš , Čerňanský Andrej , Ivanov Martin , Joniak Peter , Kováčová Marianna , Tóth Csaba
Published: February 2019

Revisory research of floral and animal assemblages from the Neanderthal site of Gánovce-Hrádok confirmed the previous stratigraphic division of the travertine mound to five horizons on the basis of different petrological and palaeontological contents, indicating climatic and palaeoenvironmental changes in the vicinity, from the Saalian termination to the Holocene. At least two species of molluscs and approximately 20 taxa of vertebrates have been determined, and at least 8 endocasts of large mammals have been re-discovered. Revised floral record contained 570 specimens, but no more than 20% were suitable for taxonomic revision.
First record of the “small cave bear” in Bulgaria and the taxonomic status of bears of the Ursus savini Andrews – Ursus rossicus Borissiak group
Authors: Spassov Nikolai , Hristova Latinka , Ivanova Stefanka , Georgiev Ivan
Published: February 2019

The discovery of rich, well preserved skull material in the latest Middle Pleistocene deposits of Mishin Kamik cave (N-W Bulgaria) presents an opportunity for a new analysis of the taxonomy and the phylogeny of the so called “small cave bears”. Not all the small cave bears known would have necessarily had a common origin, the size decrease could be related in a number of cases to a parallelism. The bear from Mishin Kamik is identical with “Ursus rossicus” Borissiak from Krasnodar (S. Russia). Both these samples must be referred to U. savini Andrews from Bacton near Cromer (England). The specimens from Krasnodar and Mishin Kamik could be classified as U. sa. rossicus, a late form of the species. This species may have affinities with some Middle Pleistocene Siberian forms. U. savini is a small but very robust spelaeoid bear which is more advanced in a number of features than U. deningeri. In several aspects it attained the evolutional adaptations of the cave bears of the U. spelaeus-U. ingressus group and represents an independent lineage of spelaeoid bears. The Mishin Kamik population was adapted to a mosaic landscape of forests and open areas in hilly terrain. This bear had well developed grazing adaptations but had weak motor abilities.
A new species of Plesiosorex (Mammalia, Eulipotyphla) from the Early Miocene of Japan: first record of the genus from East Asia
Authors: Oshima Mitsuharu , Tomida Yukimitsu , Orihara Takamichi
Published: February 2019

A nearly complete dentary with preserved i2, p3 and m1 of a relatively large soricomorph from the Dota locality, Kani Basin, Early Miocene (ca. 18.5 Ma), Nakamura Formation of the Mizunami Group in central Japan, is described as a new species of Plesiosorex. It represents the first record of the genus in East Asia. Plesiosorex fejfari sp. nov. has a slender dentary, posteriorly elongated angular and condyloid processes, p3 with two roots, and m1 without hypoconulid or cingulid. Cladistic analysis of Butselia gracilis and seven species of Plesiosorex shows that Butselia is basally positioned with respect to Plesiosorex, and it seems likely that Plesiosorex originated in Europe at the beginning of the Miocene and expanded its distribution to East Asia and North America during the Early Miocene. Two Middle Miocene North American species are more closely related to each other than to European species of the same age.
Beyond the Conventional Development Approaches: Evolving and Institutionalizing the Strategic Framework for Sustainable Wealth Creation and Development in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Nnamani Kelechi Elijah , Enyiazu Chukwuemeka , Nwoke Ikemefuna Sunday , Ochiaka Ebere Dorothy , Agbo Joy Nkiru , Ovaga Obinna Augustine
Published: February 2019

Given the low level of economic development and the attendant burgeoning social vices at local level in Nigeria, this study illuminates on the strategic framework for sustainable wealth creation in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State. The study argues that rather than the constant reliance on the ‘one size fits all’ analysis which has fundamentally blurred the minds of development experts and policymakers, greater emphasis should be placed on context-driven and specific studies. Among other things, the study notes that context-driven studies would enable each local government identify problems peculiar to it and evolve problem-solving measures consistent with local realities and demands. In the context of the present study, we share the optimism that Odukpani Local Government Council should prioritize wealth creation as basis for stimulating economic growth and development in the area. The study relies on triangulation of data involving interviews with key stakeholders, on-the-spot observation, participatory rural appraisal and information derived from relevant literature.
Gracilis Muscle Flap for Recurrent Rectovaginal Fistula: a Case Report
Authors: Mocian Flavius , Oancea Ruxandra , Coroș Marius
Published: February 2019

We present the case of a 48-year-old patient with a recurrent rectovaginal fistula, who we treated surgically by transposing the gracilis muscle. The patient with a history of ulcerative colitis underwent colorectal resection with mechanical anastomosis and diverting ileostomy for rectal cancer. She was subsequently treated by radiation and chemotherapy. Six weeks later, the ileostomy was removed, but afterwards the patient developed a recto-vaginal fistula. A new diverting ileostomy was performed. After eight months, a transvaginal surgical procedure was performed, and the diverting ileostomy was closed after four months. Two years after the last surgery, the patient performed an MRI scan, which revealed the relapse of the rectovaginal fistula. This time the patient was reoperated using a flap of the gracilis muscle interposed between the rectum and the vagina, but the patient refused any diverting stoma. The rectovaginal fistula relapsed again after thirteen days. Fortunately, after six months of intensive systemic and local treatment with aminosalicilic-5-acid, the fistula closed by itself. Our conclusion is that with a well-managed medical treatment, the gracilis flap, because of its good vascular supply, could be successfully used to treat rectovaginal fistulas even in patients with ulcerative colitis who underwent rectal surgery and radiation therapy for cancer.
The Role of Carotid Ultrasonography in Patients with High Risk of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Oltean-Péter Balázs , Kovács István , Chițu Monica , Benedek Imre
Published: February 2019

Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease that most often affects the carotid arteries. Being usually asymptomatic in its early stages, it is diagnosed only in advanced stages, when treatment is more difficult and prognosis is poor. Carotid ultrasound (US) is the most commonly used method for diagnosing carotid artery disease and represents a proper method for screening in patients with cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. This paper shows the methodology and necessity of carotid imaging methods in patients at high risk of developing atherosclerotic lesions. We also review the findings that underline the need of carotid screening in patients with ischemic heart disease or with ischemic arteriopathy, showing that the carotid arteries are like ‘mirrors’ of the arterial system, which need to be assessed in every patient with CV risk factors, regardless of the presence or absence of symptoms.
The Use of Social Media Job Search
Authors: Navickas Valentinas , Grenčíková Adriana , Španková Jana
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to determine the level of use of social network job search different generations X, Y, Z. We have used the method of literature study, the questionnaire method and the statistical methods, the method of comparison and deduction in the article. We meet the concept of a social network on a daily basis and many people use them. Among the young people, there is probably no one in a civilized world who would not come into contact with them. They are part of not only private but also professional life. People of generation X consider work to be the most important value in their value list. In their work they are loyal, they do not seek changes voluntarily, because they prefer certainty. This generation is characterized by the fact that technology and technology are not at the same level as the younger Y generation, but generation X is adapting to technical and information progress. People called Generation Y are considered to be an ambitious generation for whom it is important to have an interesting job and a high standard of living. This generation is looking for changes and challenges in its work. Generation Y favors their personal life, family, and partner in the ranks of values before work. They are innovative, creative and they like to develop and train in their work. They work efficiently and flexibly. Generation Z is the first generation that has not experienced a world without the ultimate digitization, they are called “digital people” and there is nothing easier for them to live without living communication with the world, they are more comfortable in the home on the Internet. Generation Z addresses everything with modern technologies.