bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selecting appropriate absorbent products to treat urinary incontinence
Authors: Payne Drew
Published: November 2015

Urinary incontinence can have a significant negative effect on a person's life, especially if left unmanaged and untreated. Continence assessment, often carried out by community nurses, is an important element in the management of a person's urinary incontinence, and so is the selection of appropriate absorbent incontinence pads. This article reviews: the causes and effects of urinary incontinence; how to derive the most appropriate information from a continence assessment; strategies for selecting incontinence pads for a person, on the basis of the results of the continence assessment; and some of the problems and risks associated with the use of incontinence pads.
Understanding the Code: safeguarding vulnerable adults
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: November 2015

Under the provisions of the Nursing and Midwifery Council's revised Code (2015) , all district and community nurses have a professional duty to safeguard vulnerable adults from abuse. With adult abuse continuing to increase, all members of the district and community nursing teams are well placed to identify and take action to safeguard the vulnerable. In this article, Richard Griffith explains how the Care Act 2014 seeks to improve the safeguarding of vulnerable adults and the role of district and community nurses in that process.
Working together to prevent female genital mutilation
Authors: Clarke Elinor
Published: November 2015

Elinor Clarke RM, Chair of the FGM National Clinical Group, discusses the importance of collaboration in the elimination of female genital mutilation.
Living with autism: What's your superpower? A personal reflection
Authors: Kitson-Reynolds Ellen , Kitson William , Humphrys Kevin
Published: November 2015

Following the Autism Act 2009 and subsequent publications, the University of Southampton's Faculty of Health Sciences introduced an interactive e-learning package through enhancing and harmonising its learning resources, to enable students to effectively work with individuals living with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The resource encompasses reading material, quizzes checking self-knowledge, links to external resources, video links and hearing those living with autism, and can be accessed by students at a time convenient to their learning needs and placement activities. With the increasing numbers of women with a known ASD, midwives will need to adapt behaviours, environments and care packages, and support women through their transition to parenthood. Based on the lead author's experience as a parent and carer of someone living with an ASD, this article explores the challenge for midwives to experience the world from a different perspective, embrace it and become understanding and more tolerant of difference and diversity.
Values-based recruitment and the NHS Constitution: Making sure student midwives meet the brief
Authors: Power Alison , Clews Claire
Published: November 2015

Since publication of the findings from the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Inquiry ( Francis, 2013 ), which identified levels of substandard care and failings from staff in exhibiting core values such as care and compassion, it became evident that improvements in levels of care were needed. In response, Health Education England (2014) published its national values-based recruitment (VBR) framework to encourage higher education institutions to complement their existing recruitment processes with VBR, to ensure applicants to undergraduate health-care programmes, such as midwifery, demonstrate values aligning with the principles of the NHS Constitution ( Department of Health, 2015 ). This article will discuss how the University of Northampton piloted the integration of the VBR framework into its interview process through adopting a multiple mini interview approach.
The UK Midwifery Study System: Investigating uncommon events and conditions in midwifery-led settings
Authors: Rowe Rachel , Kurinczuk Jennifer J , Hollowell Jennifer , Jokinen Mervi , Knight Marian ,   on behalf of UKMidSS
Published: November 2015

A new reporting and research system for midwifery-led settings is being rolled out to all alongside midwifery units across the UK from January 2016. The system will use monthly notifications to investigate uncommon events and conditions in midwifery-led settings.
Practical aspects of anaesthetic monitoring, part 1: central nervous system and cardiovascular system
Authors: Self Ian
Published: November 2015

In practice, anaesthetic monitoring is normally carried out by trained veterinary nurses, although veterinary surgeons are ultimately responsible for the safety of their patients and should be fully aware of the monitoring methods available. This two-part review article considers the evidence for monitoring anaesthetised small animals in a clinical setting and highlights the current veterinary recommendations, comparing them to the human anaesthesia standards of care. The monitoring modalities are considered in light of the physiological parameters they are intended to measure, highlighting the relevance to anaesthesia and their usefulness in clinical practice. Practical examples are given throughout, emphasising how monitors can warn of physiological and equipment deterioration. Part one outlines the available approaches to basic and advanced central nervous system and cardiovascular system monitoring, emphasising the practical aspects as well as introducing more advanced concepts. Part two will consider respiratory system and temperature monitoring.
Superficial heat therapy for dogs and cats, part 1: physiological mechanisms and indications
Authors: Dorn Marianne
Published: November 2015

Superficial heat therapy is an adjunctive pain management tool useful in the management of canine and feline musculoskeletal disorders. Warming tissues improves mobility of musculotendinous units, and there is an additional theoretical basis for the use of heat in enhancing chronic wound healing. Therapeutic benefits of superficial heat therapy result from its effects of enhancing local tissue oxygenation and local tissue metabolism, reducing muscle spasm, increasing connective tissue extensibility and increasing the pain threshold.
Reproductive disorders in rodents
Authors: Meredith Anna
Published: November 2015

Reproductive disorders are common in both breeding and non-breeding rodents, and their small size and prey animal status can make them challenging patients. However, a thorough physical examination and imaging techniques can often supply valuable information to inform a diagnosis. Routine neutering will prevent the majority of reproductive diseases in rodents, but is not as commonly recommended or performed in rodents as in other companion mammals. However, it is an elective surgical procedure that should be considered and offered to pet owners, particularly for female rats and guinea pigs. Reproductive disorders of male rodents are relatively uncommon, but routine castration may also be used for prevention of breeding or to enable males to be kept together without fighting.
Deciding on a combination of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs
Authors: Moatari Mohammad , Kirkwood Graeme , Thachil Jecko
Published: November 2015

Patients being treated for atrial fibrillation may develop cardiovascular disease before or after the onset of their heart rhythm problem, and may require a combination of antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs. This article describes the evidence for the combinations used to treat acute coronary syndrome in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Promoting equality by assessing discrimination in clinical practice
Authors: Burr Steven A , Leung Yee L
Published: November 2015

How well do you understand your impact on the opportunities of others, and their impact on your opportunities? Do you reflect on the equality of your values and whether your behaviour could be improved? This article gives an overview of these issues for hospital doctors.
What is the ideal interval between dressing changes during negative pressure wound therapy for open traumatic fractures?
Authors: Kim Y. H. , Hwang K. T. , Kim J. T. , Kim S. W.
Published: November 2015

Objective:

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is effective in infection control during treatment of severe open fractures. However frequent dressing changes during NPWT are costly and cause patient discomfort. If the interval between dressing changes could be extended, these problems would be reduced. In this article we compare the outcomes of open IIIB fractures with 3-day versus 7-day intervals between dressing changes.

Method:

Patients who sustained Gustilo IIIB open fractures were included. All underwent conventional orthopaedic fixation with delayed latissimus dorsi flap coverage. Group 1 had 3-day intervals between dressing changes and group 2 had 7-day intervals. The final outcomes in the two groups were analysed.

Results:

There were 38 patients in group 1 and 34 patients in group 2. Although the period between admission and final operation was similar in the two groups, the mean number of NPWT changes was 4.54 in 3 day in group 1 and 1.95 in group 2 (p<0.001). This led to a difference in NPWT-related costs; $341.26 in group 1 and $237.49 in group 2(p<0.001). There was no difference in the frequency of complications such as infection or non-union of fractures.

Conclusion:

NPWT is useful treatment option for open fractures, to bridge between initial debridement and final microsurgical tissue transfer. Considering patient comfort, the costs related to the NPWT, and the final flap results, a 7-day interval between changes of the NPWT is acceptable.
Mysterious, gripping and a real cliffhanger…
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: November 2015

This is a book that will captivate key stage 2 children from the very first sentence. Use Brenda Willliams' guidance to explore character, plot, themes and much more.
No right or wrong answers – that is the joy of philosophy
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: November 2015

Schools are discovering how this subject can develop critical thinking, linguistic skills and emotional wellbeing, and also enhance learning across the curriculum.
Confident to lead?
Authors: David Anthony
Published: November 2015

Anthony David unpicks the complexities of what it means to lead in terms of skill and personality, and finds that the middle leadership role is often problematic.
Diseño de un instrumento de evaluación de competencias informacionales en Educación Secundaria Obligatoria a través de la selección de indicadores clave
Authors: Bielba Calvo Marcos , Martínez Abad Fernando , Herrera García María Esperanza , Rodríguez Conde María José
Published: November 2015

El estudio que se presenta, forma parte de un proyecto de investigación integrado en el marco del I+D+i EDU2012-34000, que planifica realizar una evaluación del desarrollo de competencias clave en estudiantes y profesorado de educación secundaria, e implementar programas formativos para el desarrollo de competencias clave, basados en el uso de las TIC.El presente estudio pretende diseñar y validar un instrumento de evaluación, basado en estándares internacionales y adaptados al currículo español, del rendimiento real de los estudiantes de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria en competencias informacionales.Como primera fase del estudio, se presenta el procedimiento de recopilación, análisis y comparación de los modelos de normas publicados relativos a las competencias informacionales.En segundo lugar, se muestra el diseño de una tabla de especificaciones creada a partir de los indicadores recogidos en los modelos de normas, y posteriormente, la equiparación de ésta con el currículo de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria en España.Finalmente se muestra el procedimiento realizado para la selección de indicadores clave con criterios numéricos.A partir de la aplicación de un diseño no experimental de tipo ex-post-facto, se muestran los indicadores clave seleccionados al finalizar el proceso de valoración, basado en tres criterios: estándares internacionales, aspectos curriculares y valoración de jueces expertos.
Efecto de costo irrecuperable: una aproximación exploratoria a través de una muestra de titulados españoles
Authors: Fernández Magalhaes Roberto , Pocinho Ricardo , Fernández Muñoz Juan José , Rodrigues Dos Santos Gisela Andreia
Published: November 2015

El efecto de costo irrecuperable (ECI), se manifiesta como una tendencia a elegir o continuar un curso de acción una vez que se ha hecho una inversión de dinero, tiempo o esfuerzo previa (Arkes & Blumer, 1985). En el siguiente artículo hemos analizado este efecto en una muestra de 108 sujetos que varían en titulación, con una media de edad de 28,79 (DT = 11.34), y donde el 62% son mujeres y el 38% hombres. El trabajo de investigación es una réplica del experimento original 4 y 6 de Arkes y Blumer (1985), con alguna variación metodología y estructural. Además se busca incidir más en el efecto, añadiendo un análisis que el experimento original no poseía, a través de una ANOVA, para determinar si hay diferencias significativas en el propio grupo en función de su respuesta y de su estimación. Los resultados confirman lo mostrado por Arkes y Blumer (1985), confirmando la existencia del ECI, aunque al igual que con ellos, el concepto deja abierto un abanico a posibles controversias que se han tenido en cuenta a la hora de establecer las conclusiones de esta investigación.
MENTALIDADE EMPREENDEDORA NO LITORAL NORTE PAULISTA: UMA INVESTIGAÇÃO COM DISCENTES DE ENSINO SUPERIOR
Authors: Ribeiro Ricardo de Lima , Araujo Elvira Aparecida Simões de , Oliveira Edson Aparecida de Araujo Querido
Published: November 2015

A existência de uma mentalidade favorável à atividade empreendedora pode ser considerada como elemento relevante para a geração e desenvolvimento de riqueza. Isso porque a literatura acerca do tema aponta que parte significativa dos empreendimentos nascidos no Brasil é gerada por pequenos empreendedores, que se tornam os grandes propulsores da economia e do desenvolvimento da região. Nesta pesquisa, busca identificar  o grau da mentalidade empreendedora dos discentes de cursos presenciais de ensino superior concluintes em 2013, do Litoral Norte Paulista. Esta amostra foi considerada em virtude do alto potencial empreendedor, proveniente do nível educacional e da faixa etária. Para alcançar o objetivo desta produção acadêmica, foram mensurados os componentes da mentalidade empreendedora destes discentes. Quanto maior o percentual de afirmativas positivas, maior o grau de mentalidade empreendedora. A abordagem utilizada foi a quantitativa, por meio de uma pesquisa de campo e empregou-se como instrumento de coleta de dados, um questionário adaptado do estudo sobre mentalidade empreendedora do Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). Os dados foram examinados por meio da estatística descritiva. Os resultados alcançados demonstram que os discentes do Litoral Norte possuem elevada mentalidade empreendedora.
RADAR DA INOVAÇÃO: UM ESTUDO DE CASO DAS PRESTADORAS DE SERVIÇO DE BRASÍLIA/DF
Authors: Simões Leandro Cunha , Oliveira Michel Angelo Constantino de , Mendes Dany Rafael Fonseca , Pinheiro Adalberto Amorim
Published: November 2015

A inovação tem surgido como estratégia de diferenciação e de aperfeiçoamento frente à grande competitividade que as Microempresas e Empresas de Pequeno Porte (MEs/EPPs[1]) enfrentam nos dias atuais. Nessa linha, o objetivo deste trabalho é mensurar o grau de inovação em ME/EPP do setor de serviços que participam do Programa Agentes Locais de Inovação (ALI) na Asa Norte, região central de Brasília/DF. A amostra utilizada neste estudo contempla trinta microempresas e empresas de pequeno porte que, focadas na exploração dos mais diversos segmentos, prestam serviços na Asa Norte do Plano Piloto, região central de Brasília/DF. A ferramenta utilizada para medir o grau de inovação da amostra foi o instrumento Radar da Inovação, originalmente concebido por Sawhney, Wolcott e Arroniz (2006). A pontuação do Radar varia de 1 a 5 para cada dimensão, sendo, no total, treze dimensões. O grau de inovação médio das organizações empresariais analisadas foi de 2,4, indicando que a inovação ainda é rudimentar na amostra selecionada. Das MEs/EPPs que obtiveram grau de inovação acima da média (2,5 pontos), é possível destacar Bares e Restaurantes (46%), Salões de beleza (15%) e Tecnologia (15%). Estas obtiveram os melhores resultados do total da população pesquisada. Esta pesquisa contribui no seu aspecto empírico por tratar de dados inéditos para um segmento de grande importância para a economia nacional.
COMPORTAMENTO EMPREENDEDOR E TRAJETÓRIA EMPRESARIAL DE FUNDADORES DE MPES EM BARÃO DE COCAIS/MG
Authors: Silva Wendel Alex Castro , Fonseca Rosimar Aparecida da , Araújo Elisson Alberto Tavares
Published: November 2015

O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar as CCEs presentes nos fundadores de empresas que influenciam sua trajetória empresarial no município de Barão de Cocais/MG, a partir da perspectiva de Bygrave (2004). A pesquisa é empírico-descritiva e qualitativa, sendo um estudo de casos múltiplos. Os dados foram analisados a partir de duas categorias de análise temáticas: caracterização dos entrevistados e das empresas, e trajetória empresarial a partir dos fatores pessoais, sociológicos, organizacionais e ambientais que influenciam no Processo Empreendedor. Os resultados demonstraram que a convivência com pessoas empreendedoras na família, aliada à percepção de uma oportunidade de negócio no município, foram fundamentais na decisão de torna-se empreendedor. As CCEs mais comuns foram: inovação, liderança, otimismo, iniciativa, habilidade de conduzir situações e utilizar recursos. As características pessoais, sociológicas, organizacionais e ambientais sugeriram interferir na formação do processo empreendedor, confirmando-se, parcialmente, o modelo de Bygrave, exceto as variáveis "insatisfação com o trabalho, ser demitido, idade, investidores, incubadoras e advogados", não apontadas pelos empreendedores. Portanto, essa teoria mostrou-se efetiva no estudo do comportamento dos fundadores das empresas da amostra.
Análise exploratória para a modelagem da frequência de acidentes de trânsito agregados ao nível de zonas de tráfego
Authors: Gomes Marcos José Timbó Lima , Torres Caio Assunção , Oliveira Neto Francisco Moraes de , Cunto Flávio José Craveiro
Published: November 2015

Este trabalho apresenta uma análise exploratória das variáveis que contribuem na modelagem da segurança viária ao nível estratégico e tático de planejamento. A princípio, uma base de dados geográficos de 126 zonas de tráfego é compilada a partir de dados socioeconômicos disponíveis, características da rede e dos acidentes georreferenciados. Visando separar os efeitos parciais das variáveis sobre a ocorrência de acidentes, a análise compreende: i) uma análise fenomenológica e de correlação que resultou na redução de variáveis preditoras, e ii) uma análise de regressão binomial negativa, que identificou os preditores significativos. Dada a natureza espacial dos dados geográficos, a suposição de independência espacial entre erros modelados é analisada. Os resultados confirmaram que os acidentes estão relacionados com a renda e atividade econômica, no nível estratégico, e a atributos físicos e de operação da rede, no nível tático. A evidência da dependência espacial no nível estratégico aponta direções para trabalhos futuros.
Análise de fatores que influem no uso da bicicleta para fins de planejamento cicloviário
Authors: De Sousa Pablo Brilhante , Kawamoto Eiji
Published: November 2015

A meta deste trabalho é propor um procedimento para identificar e quantificar os fatores que influem no uso de bicicletas e apresentar a forma como estes fatores podem ser usados para avaliar e planejar a implantação de ciclovias e/ou ciclofaixas em uma área urbana. Para tanto, foi elaborado um método que consistiu, inicialmente, de obtenção de dados socioeconômicos e de viagens urbanas de locais dotados de ciclovias e/ou ciclofaixas disponíveis para a população e de contagens volumétricas de ciclistas antes e depois da implantação da infraestrutura cicloviária. Em seguida, foi realizado um experimento a partir da caracterização dos dados socioeconômicos, de viagens e de infraestrutura cicloviária, e posterior estimação de um modelo de escolha discreta, que possibilitou a identificação destes fatores e serviu para quantificar a demanda cicloviária. Através da construção de cenários antes e depois da implantação da infraestrutura cicloviária e da comparação entre contagens volumétricas de ciclistas da Região Metropolitana da Baixada Santista, realizadas em pontos preestabelecidos, e a estimação da demanda cicloviária nestes pontos usando o modelo de escolha discreta, concluiu-se que a meta foi alcançada.
Comparação entre modelo DEA clusterizado pela escala de operação e modelo DEA tradicional para retornos variáveis de escala na avaliação de empresas aéreas brasileiras
Authors: Rubem Ana Paula dos Santos , Moura Ariane Lima de , Soares de Mello João Carlos Correia Baptista , Santos Bruno Machado Fernandes dos
Published: November 2015

O objetivo deste artigo é realizar uma análise comparativa dos resultados de eficiência obtidos usando uma abordagem tradicional de Análise Envoltória de Dados (DEA, do inglês Data Envelopment Analysis) em contraposição à metodologia aqui proposta, que representa uma forma alternativa de lidar com diferenças na escala de operação das unidades produtivas. Para tanto, é conduzido um estudo de caso sobre o desempenho operacional das empresas brasileiras de transporte aéreo de passageiros, quanto ao uso da frota. A proposta combina clusterização das unidades produtivas segundo a escala de operação, aplicação do modelo DEA original para retornos constantes de escala separadamente em cada cluster, além da compensação das diferenças de escala entre os clusters. Os resultados foram comparados aos do modelo DEA tradicional para retornos variáveis de escala, tendo revelado que a abordagem proposta aumentou a discriminação entre as unidades, sem grande impacto nas ordenações finais.
„Dva jsou víc než jeden“: Evaluace programu organizace Čmelák – Společnost přátel přírody
Authors: Broukalová Lenka , Broukal Václav , Činčera Jan , Sopůšková Zdeňka
Published: November 2015

This article presents the results of an evaluation of the long-term program implemented by organization Čmelák [English: Bumblebee] – Friends of Nature called ‘Two are more than one’. The program is primarily focused on the validation of methods that contribute to inclusion in education and include elements of personal and social education, environmental education and trades. The evaluation consists of two parts –evaluation of the ‘development cycle’ and evaluation of the ‘creative educational cycle’. The evaluation of the development cycle uses a simple design based on observation and semi-structured interviews with teachers from cooperating schools and with teachers of the programs. The evaluation of the creatively-educational cycle uses a mixed design incorporating a survey comparing the pupils' attitudes before and after the program, analysis of pupils’ focus groups consisting, observations, and semi-structured interviews with teachers and programme teachers. The program provides results in the development of relations within individual classes, and partly also in establishing contacts and in the development of cooperation across classes. The program also provides results in the thematic areas – environmental and trades. The evaluation also revealed some problematic aspects of the program.
Rozvíjení environmentálních postojů z pohledu učitelů na 2. stupni základních škol
Authors: Bartoš Jan , Matějček Tomáš
Published: November 2015

This paper summarizes the results of original research focused on the issue of environmental attitudes. It concerns qualitative research which has been conducted by semi-structured interviews with 10 respondents (teachers) who are environment education coordinators. Questions were focused on their understanding of the concepts of attitude, beliefs, values and interest. It also ascertained whether respondents considered their teaching systematically focused on the development of environmental attitudes and how they develop the attitudes of pupils. Based on an analysis of the interviews the respondents can be divided into several groups according to several criteria (primarily whether they think about attitudes at a theoretical level and to what extent their plans are put into practice). What impact the introduction of the Framework Educational Programme for Basic Education had on the teaching of attitudes was also observed. Most respondents believe that the introduction of this document does not significantly affect the development of attitudes in teaching. The transfer of attitudes between pupils and their parents was also observed in which the predominant transmission of attitudes was from pupils to their parents.
V německých lesních školkách vládne rozmanitost a pohoda
Authors: Valkounová Tereza
Published: November 2015

Forest kindergarten teachers from around the Czech Republic spent a week in Berlin in January 2015 visiting their colleagues in five forest kindergartens and the Helleum Research Center for Children.
Effect Of Single And Short-Term Aerobics On Selected Mental State Parametres In Adult Females
Authors: Kyselovičová Oľga , Cepková Alena , Staňová Alžbeta , Gregor Tomáš , Lörincziová Dagmar
Published: November 2015

The aim of the study was to determine the degree of the influence of aerobic program on mental state of the trainees after a single and short-term application. We tried to find out the positive effects of an aerobics on the selected parameters of mental state of women that performed aerobics recreationally. Twenty-two healthy women (age 35 ± 5 years) were involved in the specific aerobic program with mini trampolines (jumping) over the period of 5 weeks. To measure the psychological parameters a modified questionnaire of type X-STAI was distributed before and after the single work out at the beginning of the study and after the 5 weeks period. Chi-quadrat analysis was used to evaluate the data. The greatest and statistically the most significant differences were recorded in the parameters ´enthusiastic´, ´boosted by energy´ and ´relaxed´, in comparison with the emotions at the beginning and at the end of the lesson in initial measuring. Comparison of changes after the 5 weeks period at the beginning and at the end of the lesson shows statistical significance in all parameters, except ´tired´. No statistical changes occurred at either the beginning or the end of the lesson comparing initial and final phases. Based on the results, we can conclude that specialized aerobic training provokes immediate changes in psychological state of the trainees via increase of their positive and decrease of negative emotions right after the lesson and when compared to its beginning. This leads to a better mental stability and a greater resistance to the influences of outer environment on mental state.
The Influence Of Experiential Learning With Physical Movement Activities On Social Status Of Integrated Pupils With Behavioural Disorders
Authors: Pintérová Zuzana , Peráčková Janka
Published: November 2015

The aim of the study was to broaden the knowledge about experiential education comprising of physical movement and sport activities as a part of the educational process and to verify the potential influence of experiential education on the changes in the field of social relationships in selected integrated classes with pupils suffering from behavioural disorders. To meet this goal, we used a standardized psycho-diagnostic method, a socio-metric rating questionnaire, by which means we proved the positive influence of the experiential education programme connected to movement on the overall improvement of the social structure of a class with pupils with behavioural disorders and their status in the class’s hierarchy. We formulated recommendations for the practical field based on this fact.
On The Stress Free Deformation Of Linear FGM Interface Under Constant Temperature
Authors: Ganczarski Artur , Szubartowski Damian
Published: November 2015

This paper demonstrates the stress free thermo-elastic problem of the FGM thick plate. Existence of such a purely thermal deformation is proved in two ways. First proof is based on application of the Iljushin thermo-elastic potential to displacement type system of equations. This reduces 3D problem to the plane stress state problem. Next it is shown that the unique solution fulfils conditions of simultaneous constant temperature and linear gradation of thermal expansion coefficient. Second proof is based directly on stress type system of equations which straightforwardly reduces to compatibility equations for purely thermal deformation. This occurs if only stress field is homogeneous in domain and at boundary. Finally an example of application to an engineering problem is presented.
Application Of Shape Memory Alloy In Harvesto-Absorber System
Authors: Kęcik Krzysztof
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a conception of the harvester-absorber system consisting of two parts. The first is the pendulum attached to the main system (oscillator), which is suspended on the linear damper and the nonlinear spring made of shape memory alloy. The spring is modelled as a polynomial function based on Landau–Ginzburg theory of phase transitions (similar as ferroelectric and ferromagnets). The obtained results show, that SMA element can increase harvesting energy level, while the absorber effect can be impaired (but not loss). Additionally, introducing SMA element causes changes in dynamics, introduces a new unstable solutions and bifurcations. The analysis was done by classical integration and continuation solution methods.
The Grade of Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction as a Predictive Factor for Permanent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Anda Cerghizan , Atilla Keresztesi Arthur , Simona Bataga , Ioan Tilea
Published: November 2015

The objective of this study was to find a link between the grade of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and the progression to permanent non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF), in a group of patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation.

Methods: A bidirectional study on 57 patients meeting the inclusion criteria was conducted; each patient was admitted in a university-based hospital between January 1st - June, 30, 2013, with a follow up 3 and 6 months later. Permanent atrial fibrillation development was followed.

Results: Out of the 57 patients, 23 had paroxysmal AF and 34 were with persistent AF. After six months, 21 patients progressed to permanent AF, representing 36.84% of the total patients. Female patients with age over 65 had more often atrial fibrillation, but more men progressed to a sustained form of AF. No statistically significant difference regarding the grade of diastolic dysfunction, the left atrial size or volume, or the left ventricular ejection fraction was observed between the patients with progression, compared to those without progression.

Conclusions: The grade of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction did not prove to be a predictive factor for permanent atrial fibrillation, neither the left atrial size or volume, or the left ventricular ejection fraction.
How Far We Should Go with Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection on the Controlateral Side in Unifocal Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Dorin Vartolomei Mihai , Bogdan Chibelean Calin , Septimiu Voidazan , Orsolya Martha , Angela Borda , Mihail Boja Radu , Aloiziu Dogaru Grigore
Published: November 2015

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to determine the evolution of patients with unifocal lateral wall MIBC (muscle invasive bladder cancer) after cystectomy with PLND (pelvic lymph node disection) at the Urology Clinic in Tirgu Mures, and to determine tumor stage and lymph node status before and after radical cystectomy with PLND.

Methods. This is a prospective study, conducted between 1 August 2012 to 31 July 2014 at Urology Clinic, with a median follow-up of 14 months (range 7-25). Inclusion criteria were: patients undergone cystectomy with PLND, and unifocal MIBC on the lateral wall of the bladder; exclusion criteria were: multiple bladder tumor, other location and clinical T stage > 3.

Results. Forteen patients met the inclusion criteria, median age was 61 (range 55-72), 85.71 % were male. An increase in T3 patients was noticed from 1 to 5 cases, we noticed a decrease of N0 lymph nodes from 78.6% to 57.1% postoperatively and on the controlateral side the kappa coefficient between the preoperatively and postoperatively negative lymph nodes was 0.63. On the tumor side the most common location for positive lymph nodes was external iliac with 3 nodes (21.4 %) and obturator fossa with 4 nodes (28.6 %) and on the contralateral side 2 positive nodes (14.3 %, obturator fossa, external, internal and common iliac nodes).

Conclusions. In unifocal bladder tumors, located on the lateral wall, PLND could be an alternative with comparable results with extended PLND especially in T1 and T2 patients associated with N0 before and after surgery.
Study on Changes of the Urea, Serum Creatinine and Glomerular Protein Permeability, after General Anesthesia with Sevoflurane
Authors: Mircea Stoian , Adina Stoian , Dumitru Costel , Florin Tripon , Iudita Badea , Leonard Azamfirei
Published: November 2015

Introduction: The widespread use of sevoflurane as an induction and maintenance volatile agent of general anesthesia demostrates an increased safety profile. Sevoflurane contact with CO2 absorbents lead to the occurrence of toxic compounds such as Compund A and Compound B. Among the side efffects of Sevoflurane remember the renal toxic effect much discussed in the literature but still unresolved. In previous research we have demonstrated the glomerular protein changes as a result of exposure to Sevoflurane. In the current study we intend to monitor the changes in blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine after exposure to Sevoflurane.

Material and method: We included in our study 90 patients who were anesthetized in the Department of Anesthesiology of the County Mure Hospital during 01.10.2009-01.10.2014. They had normal values for blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine and had no preoperative proteinuria. Serum and urine samples were taken preoperatively and at 24 and 72 hours postanesthetic and were analyzed in the laboratory. Proteinuria was determined by spectrophotometry.

Results: After protein quantitative determination by spectrophotometry and statistical anaysis we obtained significant differences by comparing the average preoperative/24 hours total protein (p<0.0001) and 24/72 hours (p<0.0001). There are no significant statistical differences by comparing the blood urea nitrogen at the three intervals (p<0.53) and no statistical changes for mean serum creatinine (p<0.18).

Conclusions: Changes in glomerular filtered proteins following exposure to Sevoflurane demonstrate its toxic effect on glomerular tubules. Lack of perioperative significant wich is why we recommend determining perioperative urinary protein as a marker of glomerular damage.
Pain and Distress in Cancer Patients
Authors: Anna Burger-Szabo , Marieta Gabos-Grecu , Theodor Moica , Hajnal Finta , Melinda Ferencz , Cristian Gabos-Grecu , Iosif Gabos-Grecu
Published: November 2015

Background: A significant number of patients with cancer suffer from anxiety and depressive disorder. Perceived emotional distress, anxiety and depressive symptoms are significantly more frequent in cancer patients with pain than in patients without pain. Despite their high prevalence cancer pain and distress are frequently undertreated.

Material and method: Thirty two oncology patients were included in the study who were receiving concurrent oncologic and pain treatment in the Oncology Clinic TgMures. Patient demographic and clinical information was obtained from medical records and patient report. Patients were screened for pain scores using the Visual Analog Scale and distress scores, using the Distress Thermometer.

Results: The gender proportion of the sample is: 38% female, 62% male. More than 75% of the sample was over 50 years of age, and more than half of the patients (59.3%) had metastatic disease. Significant decreasing trend were seen for pain score difference before and after the pain treatment was reassessed (dosage increase or conversion) (p<0.0001), and decreasing trend seen for distress score (p<0.0001) also.

Conclusions: Pain and distress occurred concomitant in this population. An adequate pain management and pain reassessment contributes to improve the cancer patient emotional distress score, anxiety and depressive symptoms. An accurate screening instrument can facilitate the recognition of patients who needs further assessment and psychiatric treatment.
The Assessment of the Colo-rectal Polyps in Order to the New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Raluca Diac Andreea , Olga Brusnic , Gabriella Gabos , Danusia Onisor , Cosmina Drasoveanu Silvia , Alina Boeriu , Ecaterina Dobru Daniela
Published: November 2015

Objective. Assessment of the histological and endoscopic features of the colo-rectal polyps is requered for the application of the new diagnostic and therapeutical strategies in the managment of the diminutive polyps.

Methods. This paper is a descriptive retrospective study on 52 pacients reffered for colonoscopy in Gastroenterology Clinic – Clinical County Hospital Targu Mures from January until September 2014. 80 polyps were assessed. Narrow band imaging examination targeted on the protrusive lezions allowed NICE (Narrow Band Imaging International Colorectal Endoscopic) classification and corroboration of the histology prediction and pathological assessment.

Results. Polyp detection rate was 48,58%, given the quality of bowel preparation in hospital fair in 84,5%. The predominant histological type was the tubular adenoma (46,25%), and 40% of the polyps were located in the sigmoid. Among the diminutive polyps, 58,33% were hyperplastic(p<0,0001), mainly in the recto-sigmoid (66,67%); the incidence of high grade displasia or cancer was 0. Real –time prediction of the histology of the colorectal polyps using NBI established: NICE 1: 19 polpyps, histology- 16 hyperplastic, (p<0,0001, sensitivity: 100%, specificity: 95%), NICE 2: 59 polyps, histology- 53 adenomatous, (p<0,0001, sensitivity: 96%, specificity: 76%), NICE 3: 2 polyps- histology-cancer.

Conclusions. We did not observe any distribution pattern in the topography of the diminutive polyps. Histologicaly the predominant type was the hyperplastic type. NBI was accurate in real-time prediction of the histology of the colo-rectal polyps. The results are relevant for application of the new strategies in the managment of the diminutive polyps.
Effect of Genotype, Sex and Age on Plumage Maturity, and Body Weight of Guinea Fowl (Numida Meleagris)
Authors: Mróz Emilia , Tomaszewska Katarzyna , Michalik Danuta , Makowski Włodzimierz , Stępińska Monika , Kubińska Magdalena
Published: November 2015

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of genotype and sex on the degree of maturity of the plumage of guinea fowl. The experimental materials comprised 300 slow-growing (Label group) and 300 fast-growing (Standard group) gray guinea fowl. At 12, 14 and 16 weeks of age, 12 birds from each group (six ♂ and six ♀) were slaughtered. Dry feathers were collected from the dorsal area on both sides of the spine, in the interscapular and thoracic region, and from the outer side of the left thigh. The percentages of feathers at five stages of development were determined for each bird: I - pinfeathers covered in sheaths, II - beginning of vane development, III - feathers unsheathed by half of rachis length, IV - feathers unsheathed by more than half of rachis length, V - fully developed vanes and afterfeathers. Feather weight was determined and expressed as a percentage of a bird’s total body weight. At 12 weeks of age, guinea fowl were characterized by the lowest (68.23%) percentage of mature feathers. The percentage of mature feathers increased to 79.36% in week 14 and to 83.20% in week 16. In weeks 14 and 16, the proportion of feather weight in total body weight was significantly lower (9.95 and 10.20%, respectively) than in week 12 (11.88%). Genotype had no effect on feather development, but it influenced feather weight and percentage. Significant (P<0.05) genotype × sex × age interactions were observed in percentage of stage I feathers. Label group guinea fowl were characterized by higher feather weight and a higher proportion of feathers in total body weight than Standard group guinea fowl (267.0 g and 11.01%, 248.9 g and 10.34%, respectively). The percentage of feather weight was lower in females than in males.
The Effect of Body Condition Score on the Biochemical Blood Indices and Reproductive Performance of Dairy Cows
Authors: Stefańska Barbara , Nowak Włodzimierz , Pruszyńska-Oszmałek Ewa , Mikuła Robert , Stanisławski Daniel , Kasprowicz-Potocka Małgorzata , Frankiewicz Andrzej , Maćkowiak Paweł
Published: November 2015

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of BCS (Body Condition Score) on the calving day and its decrease during early lactation on the biochemical blood indices and reproductive performance. One hundred and thirty-one Polish Holstein-Friesian cows were divided into three groups according to the North-American body condition score on the calving day (AC≤3.5 point BCS; MID 3.51-3.75 point BCS; FAT>3.75 point BCS) and according to the decrease in BCS during early lactation (HG >0.49 point BCS; WEL 0.49-0.25 point BCS, L<0.25 point BCS). In current study, significant interaction between change of BCS during early lactation and time of blood sampling on BHBA concentration was observed. In the AC group (≤3.5 BCS), the highest concentrations of glucose on 3 and 5 d of lactation compared to the MID and FAT groups and of insulin on 28 d and also IGF-I on 5 and 28 d of lactation compared to the FAT group were recorded. In the FAT group, the highest concentration of NEFA on 3 and 5 d compared to the AC group and of BHBA on 28 d of lactation compared to the MID group was recorded. The body condition score on the parturition day affected the reproductive performance; in the FAT group (>3.75 BCS) the lowest conception rate of the first insemination, insemination index and thereby the longest days open were observed. The highest decreases in BCS (HG >0.49 points) resulted in increased concentrations of NEFA on 3 d and of BHBA on 3 and 5 d. Moreover, in the HG group, the lowest concentration of T3 on 3, 5 and 28 d as compared to the WEL group was recorded. We concluded that the BCS (>3.5 points) on the calving day had a significantly negative effect on the metabolic status of dairy cows in the postpartum period estimated by the concentration of biochemical blood indices characterising carbohydrates (IGF-I, insulin) and lipid (NEFA, BHBA) metabolism and also the reproductive performance such as the conception rate of the first insemination, insemination index, days open. We suggested that the blood serum concentrations of IGF-I and NEFA were the most sensitive biochemical markers of the metabolic status of dairy cows in our study.
18. Estimation of Meat Content in the Carcasses of Young Pigs Based on Performance Testing of Live Animals and Carcass Evaluation
Authors: Szyndler-Nędza Magdalena , Eckert Robert , Blicharski Tadeusz
Published: November 2015

The aim of the study was to develop new equations for the estimation of meat percentage in the carcasses of young pigs, based on examination of the current pig population. In addition, new regression equations were constructed to predict the weight of meat in primal cuts. In both cases, the estimates were based on performance testing of live animals and post-slaughter evaluation of carcass traits in these animals. The study was conducted on 654 gilts of six breeds. Performance testing of live animals and carcass evaluation were performed at the Pig Testing Station (SKURTCh). Performance records in live animals included body weight (BW [kg]), age (A [days]), daily weight gain (DG [g/day]), and ultrasonic measurements, using a Piglog 105 ultrasound apparatus: backfat thickness at P2 and P4 and loin eye height P4M (at P4). Then the gilts were slaughtered and, after being chilled for 24 hours at 4°C, the right half-carcass was dissected into primal cuts. These cuts were then subjected to detailed dissection, which provided the basis for determination of the weight of meat in the primal cuts E2 [kg] and meat percentage in the carcass E1 [%]. An array of linear models based on multiple regression was constructed to estimate meat percentage in the carcass [%] and weight of meat in primal cuts [kg]. It was found that the developed linear regression equations for all breeds, which estimated meat content in the carcass based on three variables (classical model: P2, P4 and P4M), were characterised by the following values of standard error of the estimate RSE and correlation coefficient R: for E1[%], RSE=3.33; R=0.63; for E2 [kg], RSE=1.65; R=0.58. The addition to the classical model of a variable describing the breed greatly improved the parameters of the equation predictive of E1 (RSE=3.02; R=0.71). The model predictive of E2 was obtained by the addition of two variables: breed and carcass weight on the day of measurement (RSE=1.37; R=0.73). In general, the present studies indicate that equations estimating the weight of meat in a carcass (E2 [kg]) based on performance testing of live animals are characterised by a much lower value of standard error (RSE) than equations estimating meat percentage in the carcass of the same pigs (E1[%]), including those currently used in practice.
Europe’s Jewish Places
Authors: Linhard Tabea Alexa
Published: November 2015

Dani Karavans Denkmal »Passagen«, das sich im spanischen Portbou befindet, ist der vielleicht bedeutendste jüdische Ort in Europa. Diese provokante Feststellung dient als Ausgangspunkt für die Beschäftigung mit der Frage, was einen Ort in Europa heutzutage zu einem jüdischen macht. An Hand einer Analyse des Gedenkortes in Portbou werden die Konzepte »jüdischer Ort«, »jüdischer Raum«, »jüdisches Erbe«, und das »virtuell« Jüdische untersucht. Orte und Identitäten ergeben sich aus den komplexen Wechselbeziehungen zwischen Individuen und Gemeinschaften; wobei beide einem zeitlichen Wandel unterliegen. In Anbetracht der jüngsten Angriffe auf jüdische Orte und jüdische Personen in Ländern wie Dänemark, Frankreich oder Belgien diskutiert der Artikel die Bedeutung von Europas jüdischen Orten.
Coming Out Jewish and Marrano No More
Authors: Studemund-Halévy Michael
Published: November 2015

Seitdem messianische Juden in der portugiesischen Provinzstadt Belmonte die Rückkehr zum Judentum propagieren und für den Tourismus vermarkten, sind ihre »geheimen Riten« öffentlich, und das marranische Judentum mit seinen Riten und Traditionen zwischen Christus und Moses ist nicht mehr die wahre Religion.
Ownership and Exit Behavior: Evidence from the Home Health Care Market
Authors: Orsini Chiara
Published: November 2015

In the US health care system a high fraction of suppliers are not-for-profit companies. Some argue that non-profits are “for-profits in disguise” and I test this proposition in a quasi-experimental way by examining the exit behavior of home health care firms after a legislative change considerably reduced reimbursed visits per patient. The change allows me to construct a cross provider measure of restriction in reimbursement and to use this measure and time-series variation due to the passage of the law in my estimates. I find that exits among for-profit firms are higher than those of not-for-profit firms, rejecting the null that these sectors responded to the legislation in similar ways. In addition, my results expand the view that “not-for-profit” firms are a form of “trapped capital.” There is little capital investment in the home health care market, so the higher exit rates of for-profit firms after the law change indicate the possible role of labor inputs in generating differences in exit behavior across sectors.