bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The EU cohesion policy and economic development of Poland
Authors: Dorożyński Tomasz
Published: June 2016

In order to remove regional economic disparities, the EU realizes the cohesion policy. The evaluation of the cohesion policy from the point of view of experiences of individual member states and the EU is not explicit. What is especially controversial here, are unsuccessful attempts to reach the main goal, which is social, economic and territorial cohesion. It does not mean the negation of outcomes of numerous researches which confirm a positive influence of the cohesion policy on the economic growth. The subject for a discussion is the right balance between the equality and effectiveness. The key issue is an answer to the question who and how to support. The question is whether the aid should be directed at the areas which guarantee the highest added value? Should it be the priority to give equal opportunity to the poorest and to support them? At present the cohesion policy is trying to combine both those goals. However, with the limited measures and rising social, economic and territorial disparities, those actions are ineffective. The pace of economic growth in Poland in the recent years – bigger than the average in the EU – has contributed to the making up for part of a development distance towards the rest of the member states. The cohesion policy had some participation in this process. The evaluation of the influence of the cohesion policy is not easy, though. One has to, however, separate its influence from other factors affecting the social-economic situation of the regions. The main aim of the article is an evaluation of the role of the EU cohesion policy in the stimulation of social-economic development of Poland, in particular its impact on the economy of the regions. The research method is an analysis of the literature of the subject. The bases of the conducted research were: statistical data, program documents, reports, national and EU law, quantitative and qualitative research and secondary sources presented in various studies.
Nation Branding as an Economic Challenge for the Countries of the Middle and Eeast Europe on the Example of Estonia
Authors: Raftowicz-Filipkiewicz Magdalena
Published: June 2016

This paper presents the topic of nation branding, which is considered as a complementary factor of the traditional economic policy implemented in a given country. The concept of branding aims at creating a strong national brand for improving the brands of national products, as well as the image of the country which influences the attraction of foreign direct investments and increase the export. The example of Estonia attempts to prove that the actions for national brand changed positively the image in this country, as well as the competitiveness of the economy. For this purpose the author used the ranking of national brand and international competitiveness. The author also set as a goal to recognize if the concept of nation branding can be useful for the other countries of Central and Eastern Europe, especially Poland. The conclusion of this paper is that nation branding is an economic challenge for these countries and should be implemented as soon as possible in their strategies of country’s development.
Are we getting the message across? Women's perceptions of public health messages in pregnancy
Authors: November Lucy
Published: June 2016

As the primary health professionals involved with families from their very beginnings, midwives have an ideal opportunity to promote health and wellbeing through family-centred conversations around key public health issues. To explore and articulate this aspect of the role of midwives and maternity support workers, the Royal College of Midwives has developed a new model for public health within midwifery services. As part of this project, a focus group was conducted using a closed Facebook group to investigate how women using the service perceive the delivery of public health messages. Three major themes emerged: pressures on the midwife–woman relationship; different media for health messages; and midwives' and maternity support workers' communication skills.
Canine borreliosis: epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, and diagnostics
Authors: Parry Nicola
Published: June 2016

Lyme disease is one of the most commonly diagnosed zoonotic tick-borne diseases worldwide, and is becoming an increasing problem in dogs as well as in humans. The disease is caused by infection with the spirochaete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, which is transmitted by Ixodes spp. ticks. A diagnosis of Lyme disease in dogs is based on a combination of a history of exposure to tick bites, clinical signs consistent with Lyme borreliosis, serological testing, elimination of differential diagnoses, and response to antimicrobial therapy. However, as is the case with Lyme disease in people, the clinical and diagnostic features of this disease in dogs have elicited significant controversy in clinical practice. This article will review some key aspects of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of Lyme disease in dogs.
Microchipping: after implantation
Authors: Reay Caroline
Published: June 2016

Since 6th April 2016 it has been compulsory for all dogs in England, Wales and Scotland to be microchipped (this was already the case in Northern Ireland). Legal obligations of the veterinary surgeon remain broadly unchanged, with the new legal obligations being on dog breeders and owners. However, veterinary professionals should be well informed regarding the legalities. Each practice should have a policy on whether or not they scan dogs (or indeed other pets) as a matter of course, and should encourage dog owners to keep their pet's microchip registration details up to date. Adverse reactions should be reported to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate; if a chip is thought to have failed, radiography is beneficial to confirm the presence of the unreadable chip.
Ferret diarrhoea: an overview
Authors: Caleb Cutler Daniel , Mayer Jörg
Published: June 2016

The domestic ferret may present with the clinical sign of diarrhoea due to a multitude of causes. In order for the clinician to adequately understand, diagnose and treat this disease process, a thorough knowledge of the patient's history coupled with appropriate differential diagnosis is essential. Possible causes for diarrhoea include inappropriate diet, foreign material, infectious agents, inflammatory diseases and neoplasia. Initial supportive care is similar and crucial for all cases of diarrhoea in the ferret, but final diagnostic and prognostic success can differ greatly. Understanding these differences will help to improve patient care and owner satisfaction.
Worldwide Veterinary Service
Authors: Harrison Emma
Published: June 2016

WVS is a UK charity that provides sustainable veterinary resources to assist animal charities, and works to help animals in need throughout the world.
Prevention and management of COPD exacerbations
Authors: Rodman Anne
Published: June 2016

There is a human and a financial cost to each acute exacerbation of COPD. Anne Rodman explains the characteristics of acute exacerbations, the current evidence base for strategies to treat exacerbations and help patients manage their condition

This article explores the role of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) in the natural course of the disease, and how to prevent and manage these in the most effective way. after defining the characteristics of AECOPD and their impact on patients and the health economy, the author discusses the current evidence base for pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies to reduce the frequency of exacerbations and minimise their effect on patients' quality of life. The article goes on to summarise how to manage AECOPD when they occur, and how to organise care to support patients during an exacerbation, including provision of self-management plans and appropriate prescribing of rescue packs to patients. The article will allow the reader to understand factors influencing the frequency and severity of acute exacerbations and appreciate strategies that reduce the impact of these on patients' quality of life and on the health economy.
Travellers to high altitude: Providing advice
Authors: Brewer Catherine
Published: June 2016

Travel to high altitudes has increased in recent years. Travellers need to have a full travel health consultation to enable them to make their trip safely. Catherine Brewer provides an overview of the key points to discuss

Travelling to high altitude can have several effects on health. altitude starts having an effect on the body at about 1500–2000m above sea level. Travellers should be advised that proper acclimatisation cuts the risk of suffering from altitude-related problems. acute mountain sickness is the body's reaction to ascent to high altitude. it is important that travellers are aware of the symptoms, how to reduce the risk, and know what to do if they experience symptoms. Travellers should also be reminded of the risks of hypothermia, frostnip and frostbite, and be given advice on how to prevent these conditions. Being aware of these risks can help travellers to be safe at altitude.
Research Roundup
Authors: Winter George
Published: June 2016

George Winter provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to practice nurses. should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Placing the Marginalized Ahmadiyya in Context with the Traditional Sunni Majority
Authors: Brand Alexa
Published: June 2016

This essay attempts to describe the Ahmadiyya, a persecuted minority group within Islam, according to the writings of their founder, Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad. The Ahmadi differ from traditional Sunni Islam in three major ways: their interpretations of jihad, the person- and prophethood of Jesus Christ, and their understandings of Muhammad as the Final Prophet, which has led to accusations of apostasy. Accordingly, this essay intends to compare and contrast Ahmadi interpretations with both Qur’anic and Biblical texts in order to accurately describe where it is the Ahmadi community fits on a globalized scale. Largely ostracized due to their interpretative variances with the larger Sunni community, this essay argues that the Ahmadi, while admittedly different, must be accepted based on their similarities.
ESTUDO SOBRE O TURISMO NO ESPAÇO RURAL EM BARRA DO PIRAÍ E SUA RELAÇÃO COM O DESENVOLVIMENTO
Authors: Ramalho Marlen Maria Cabral
Published: June 2016

O trabalho tem como objetivo analisar de que forma o turismo em espaço rural tem influenciado no desenvolvimento de Barra do Piraí. Dessa forma, o fator motivacional é pesquisar sobre o papel do turismo em espaço rural no desenvolvimento do município Barra do Pirai, localizado no sul fluminense do Rio de Janeiro, na região conhecida turisticamente como Vale do Café. O grande potencial turístico da região é a história, caracterizada por meio do turismo histórico e pedagógico, dentre outras atividades no espaço rural. O presente trabalhou adotou como metodologia a pesquisa de campo (entrevistas semiestruturadas, questionários), a pesquisa documental e bibliográfica. Os dados das entrevistas e dos questionários foram analisados por meio de algumas categorias de análise, tais como: mercado de trabalho, grau de produção interna, conectividade entre agentes que estão relacionados no setor turístico, relação entre o setor público e o privado, turismo como fonte de renda para os estabelecimentos turísticos e influência do turismo em Barra do Piraí. Neste âmbito, é possível observar que, apesar das potencialidades do município de Barra do Piraí, com suas fazendas e outros patrimônios históricos, os hotéis fazendas, dentre outros empreendimentos turísticos, não têm influenciado de forma eficiente no desenvolvimento do local.
O TURISMO RELIGIOSO E O PROCESSO DE COMUNICAÇÃO DE MARKETING: UM ESTUDO DO SANTUÁRIO DE SANTA PAULINA EM NOVA TRENTO - SC
Authors: Ardigó Carlos Marcelo , Caetano Leticia , Damo Lílian Paula
Published: June 2016

A comunicação de marketing desempenha um papel crucial no que infere a formação da imagem que os turistas e os potenciais turistas apresentam de um determinado destino. Para tal, este estudo se propôs a analisar o processo de comunicação de marketing junto aos visitantes do Santuário Santa Paulina, localizado na cidade de Nova Trento/SC. A pesquisa realizada descreveu o perfil do anunciante e o público-alvo, identificou os meios e as mensagens transmitidas e avaliou os impactos provocados pela comunicação do turismo religioso em relação ao receptor. De cunho exploratório descritivo com abordagem quali-quantitativa, fez uso do procedimento triplo, incluindo a entrevista em profundidade, a observação e o método survey. No caso deste último procedimento, utilizou-se uma amostra não probabilística formada por 162 observações. Os resultados apontaram que existe uma lacuna em nível moderado entre como a comunicação é emitida e recebida e, caso seja adaptada, ela pode se tornar mais precisa, evidente, fortalecida e unificada.
SIGNIFICADOS DO SOUVENIR TURÍSTICO ATRIBUÍDOS PELOS TURISTAS DO PASSEIO DE TREM “MARIA FUMAÇA”, ESTAÇÃO DE BENTO GONÇALVES/RS
Authors: Paula Tauana Macedo de , Mecca Marlei Salete
Published: June 2016

O souvenir é um item predominante nas destinações turísticas. A teoria que o estuda traz que ele pode servir como um evocador das lembranças dos turistas, no momento em que os mesmos retornam à sua residência; também pode apresentar um caráter promocional da destinação à qual se refere; além de tangibilizar a experiência vivenciada. Ademais, os autores destacam que, geralmente, os turistas procuram souvenirs pequenos, que apresentem baixo valor monetário. No entanto, diante dos diferentes perfis de turistas existentes e das características contemporâneas, cabe questionar o que significa realmente o souvenir para estes turistas. Assim, o objetivo desta pesquisa é confrontar o que a teoria apresenta sobre souvenir, com a percepção dos turistas referente a tal elemento. Metodologicamente, este estudo de caso caracteriza-se por ser exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa. Para a obtenção dos dados, foram aplicados questionários no passeio de trem “Maria Fumaça”– estação de Bento Gonçalves/RS. Dentre os principais resultados, identificaram-se algumas características do perfil do turista que frequenta esse atrativo; também se notou que este deseja encontrar produtos que caracterizem a região para, posteriormente, tornarem-se recursos de memória, confirmando as teorias confrontadas. A principal desmistificação desta pesquisa sinalizou que este turista está disposto a pagar um valor maior para consumir um produto característico da Serra Gaúcha.
Islamism and Post-Islamism: “Non-Muslim” in Socio-Political Discourse of Pakistan, the United States, and Indonesia
Authors: Harmakaputra Hans Abdiel
Published: June 2016

Islamism is defined by Asef Bayat as ideologies and movements that strive to establish some kind of an ‘Islamic order,’ in the form of a religious state, sharia law, or moral codes. However, Bayat and other scholars have found that nowadays Islamism is changing and many countries share the traits of post-Islamism instead of Islamism. According to Bayat, post-Islamism is both condition and project to “conceptualize and strategize the rationale and modalities of transcending Islam in social, political, and intellectual domains.” In short, it has a hybrid tendency to combine Islam and democracy. This paper will discuss how the category of “non-Muslim” is taken place in the socio-political discourse of Islamism and post-Islamism. To limit the discussion, there are only three examples from Pakistan, the United States, and Indonesia.[Islamisme menurut Asef Bayat adalah ideologi dan gerakan yang berjuang untuk membentuk semacam “tatanan Islam” dalam bentuk negara Islam, hukum syariat, atau pun hukum etis. Saat ini, islamisme telah berubah. Di beberapa negara muncul gejala post-islamisme yang khas. Bayat mendefinisikan post-islamisme sebagai kondisi dan keinginan untuk mengkonsep alasan dan modalitas untuk mengusung Islam ke ranah sosial, politik, dan keilmuan. Sehingga, muncul pula kecenderungan untuk menggabungkan Islam dan demokrasi. Tulisan ini mendiskusikan konsep “non-muslim” dalam wacana sosial politik terkait dengan Islamisme dan post-Islamisme. Pembahasan dibatasi pada tiga contoh dari Pakistan, Amerika Serikat, dan Indonesia.]
Tenacious Selection of Nash Equilibrium
Authors: Alioğulları Zeynel Harun , Barlo Mehmet
Published: June 2016

We propose a complexity measure and an associated refinement based on the observation that best responses with more variations call for more precise anticipation. The variations around strategy profiles are measured by considering the cardinalities of players’ pure strategy best responses when others’ behavior is perturbed. After showing that the resulting selection method displays desirable properties, it is employed to deliver a refinement: the tenacious selection of Nash equilibrium. We prove that it exists; does not have containment relations with perfection, properness, persistence and other refinements; and possesses some desirable features.
On Nash Implementability in Allotment Economies under Domain Restrictions with Indifference
Authors: Doghmi Ahmed
Published: June 2016

In this paper we give a full characterization of Nash implementability of social choice correspondences (SCCs) in allotment economies on preference domains with private values and different types of indifference. We focus on single-peaked/single-plateaued preferences with worst indifferent allocations, single-troughed preferences and single-troughed preferences with best indifferent allocations. We begin by introducing a weak variant of no-veto power, called
A Locally Modal B-Spline Based Full-Vector Finite-Element Method with PML for Nonlinear and Lossy Plasmonic Waveguide
Authors: Karimi Hossein , Nikmehr Saeid , Khodapanah Ehsan
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we develop a B-spline finite-element method (FEM) based on a locally modal wave propagation with anisotropic perfectly matched layers (PMLs), for the first time, to simulate nonlinear and lossy plasmonic waveguides. Conventional approaches like beam propagation method, inherently omit the wave spectrum and do not provide physical insight into nonlinear modes especially in the plasmonic applications, where nonlinear modes are constructed by linear modes with very close propagation constant quantities. Our locally modal B-spline finite element method (LMBS-FEM) does not suffer from the weakness of the conventional approaches. To validate our method, first, propagation of wave for various kinds of linear, nonlinear, lossless and lossy materials of metal-insulator plasmonic structures are simulated using LMBS-FEM in MATLAB and the comparisons are made with FEM-BPM module of COMSOL Multiphysics simulator and B-spline finite-element finite-difference wide angle beam propagation method (BSFEFD-WABPM). The comparisons show that not only our developed numerical approach is computationally more accurate and efficient than conventional approaches but also it provides physical insight into the nonlinear nature of the propagation modes.
India-Us Trade and Investment: Have They Been Up To Potential?
Authors: Mishra Prachi , Roy Devesh
Published: June 2016

This paper documents stylized facts about the evolution of trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) between India and the United States over the last four decades. We ask the question: does India-US trade and FDI deviate from its potential i. e. the level that would have been predicted by standard determinants? Using an augmented gravity model and a large sample of countries over 1970–2009, we find that while India’s exports to the US are 34 % higher than predicted, US exports to India are in line with its potential. Notably, we find strong reversals in the nature of these trading relationships over time. India loses its over-trading status while US turns out to be under-exporting to India in the period after 1990. We also find significant variation in trade performance across product categories. For primary and intermediate goods during post-1990, US exports to India turn significantly below normal. Conducting similar analysis for bilateral FDI flows for the period 1985–2009, we show that while US direct investments in India are in line with predictions based on fundamentals, India has actually been an under-investor in the US market.
Is India Ready for Inflation Targeting?
Authors: Sen Gupta Abhijit , Sengupta Rajeswari
Published: June 2016

In this paper we analyze the extent to which the current macroeconomic environment in India is suitable for implementation of inflation targeting as a monetary policy strategy, in light of the recommendation of the Urjit Patel Committee Report. Our results indicate that historically the Reserve Bank of India has given more importance to inflation compared to output growth and exchange rate changes in its monetary policy conduct and that in recent times there has been an increased emphasis on monetary independence thereby comfortably placing the RBI on a path to move towards inflation targeting. However we also find factors, that are traditionally outside the control of monetary policy, do exert a strong impact on aggregate prices in India thereby making the choice of nominal anchor a tricky one. Furthermore, the success of monetary policy in containing inflation is found to be crucially contingent on an appropriate fiscal policy as well.
Filling the gap: first record of the transparent-winged big-eared bat Histiotus diaphanopterus (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in southwestern Brazil
Authors: Semedo Thiago Borges Fernandes , Feijó Anderson
Published: June 2016

Known only from five localities Histiotus diaphanopterus is the least known species of the genus, occurring in the dry diagonal vegetation across central-eastern South America. Herein, we provide two new records of the species based on voucher specimens and provide new data on its reproductive biology. Our record from Brazil represents the southernmost locality of H. diaphanopterus in the Cerrado, filling a gap in the geographic distribution of the species approximately 1200 km and 950 km to the records of northeast Brazil and central Bolivia, respectively. The reproductive data suggest a polyestrous seasonal bimodal reproductive pattern in the Cerrado biome.
The acceptance-rejection method for low-discrepancy sequences
Authors: Nguyen Nguyet , Ökten Giray
Published: June 2016

Generation of pseudorandom numbers from different probability distributions has been studied extensively in the Monte Carlo simulation literature. Two standard generation techniques are the acceptance-rejection and inverse transformation methods. An alternative approach to Monte Carlo simulation is the quasi-Monte Carlo method, which uses low-discrepancy sequences, instead of pseudorandom numbers, in simulation. Low-discrepancy sequences from different distributions can be obtained by the inverse transformation method, just like for pseudorandom numbers. In this paper, we present an acceptance-rejection algorithm for low-discrepancy sequences. We prove a convergence result, and present error bounds. We then use this acceptance-rejection algorithm to develop quasi-Monte Carlo versions of some well-known algorithms to generate beta and gamma distributions, and investigate the efficiency of these algorithms numerically. We also consider the simulation of the variance gamma model, a model used in computational finance, where the generation of these probability distributions are needed. Our results show that the acceptance-rejection technique can result in significant improvements in computing time over the inverse transformation method in the context of low-discrepancy sequences.
Policy Initiatives towards the Nonprofit Sector: Insights from the Israeli Case
Authors: Almog-Bar Michal
Published: June 2016

The article aims to describe and analyze the main processes of policy initiatives towards the nonprofit sector in Israel since 2000, and their implications for the nonprofit sector and civil society. The process started with a review of policies regarding the sector, its roles and relationship with the government conducted by an ad hoc Review Committee established in February 2000. This then developed into few policy initiatives: in the Ministry of Social Welfare; by a governmental committee to review allocations to the nonprofit sector, and another project by the Prime Minister’s Office that attempted to change the relations between nonprofit organizations and the government. These initiatives are analyzed, focusing on the actors and the politics of the process, as well as subsequent changes and their impact on the government and civil society in Israel. The analysis reveals that, while the policy initiatives have created new forms and forums for dialogue and joint work between main-stream nonprofit organizations and the government, it has neither developed nor strengthened such organizations and civil society as an alternative public sphere. The insights obtained from the Israeli case of policy development towards the nonprofit sector points to a need for a more nuanced consideration of partnership policies between the government and the nonprofit sector, and their implications for nonprofit organizations and civil society.
Structure of the adducts methylthiourea: 1,4-dioxane (2:1) and 1,1-dimethylthiourea: morpholine (1:1)
Authors: Taouss Christina , Jones Peter G.
Published: June 2016

The adducts methylthiourea:1,4-dioxane (2:1) (1) and 1,1-dimethylthiourea:morpholine (1:1) (2) were prepared and their crystal structures determined. In 1, hydrogen bonding involving the methylthiourea molecules leads to the formation of

R
2
2

(
8
)

${\rm{R}}_2^2(8)$

rings and thence to molecular ribbons parallel to [110]. The dioxane molecules accept hydrogen bonds from the remaining NH groups, and their inversion symmetry means that they connect adjacent methylthiourea ribbons, forming a layer structure parallel to (11̅1). In the packing of 2, dimethylthiourea dimers cannot link to each other because of the blocking effect of their methyl groups, but instead are linked indirectly via morpholine molecules, the NH groups of which are simultaneously hydrogen bond acceptors from the remaining NH function of dimethylthiourea and donors towards the sulfur atom of a neighbouring dimer. The overall effect is to form broad ribbons parallel to the a axis, with the morpholine molecules occupying the peripheral positions. The morpholine oxygen atom of 2 is not involved in classical hydrogen bonds.
Arterial Stiffness and Autonomic Modulation After Free-Weight Resistance Exercises in Resistance Trained Individuals
Authors: Kingsley J. Derek , Mayo Xián , Tai Yu Lun , Fennell Curtis
Published: June 2016

Kingsley, JD, Mayo, X, Tai, YL, and Fennell, C. Arterial stiffness and autonomic modulation after free-weight resistance exercises in resistance trained individuals. J Strength Cond Res 30(12): 3373–3380, 2016—We investigated the effects of an acute bout of free-weight, whole-body resistance exercise consisting of the squat, bench press, and deadlift on arterial stiffness and cardiac autonomic modulation in 16 (aged 23 ± 3 years; mean ± SD) resistance-trained individuals. Arterial stiffness, autonomic modulation, and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) were assessed at rest and after 3 sets of 10 repetitions at 75% 1-repetition maximum on each exercise with 2 minutes of rest between sets and exercises. Arterial stiffness was analyzed using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV). Linear heart rate variability (log transformed [ln] absolute and normalized units [nu] of low-frequency [LF] and high-frequency [HF] power) and nonlinear heart rate complexity (Sample Entropy [SampEn], Lempel-Ziv Entropy [LZEn]) were measured to determine autonomic modulation. BRS was measured by the sequence method. A 2 × 2 repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze time (rest, recovery) across condition (acute resistance exercise, control). There were significant increases in cf-PWV (p = 0.05), heart rate (p = 0.0001), normalized LF (LFnu; p = 0.001), and the LF/HF ratio (p = 0.0001). Interactions were also noted for ln HF (p = 0.006), HFnu (p = 0.0001), SampEn (p = 0.001), LZEn (p = 0.005), and BRS (p = 0.0001) such that they significantly decreased during recovery from the resistance exercise compared with rest and the control. There was no effect on ln total power, or ln LF. These data suggest that a bout of resistance exercise using free-weights increases arterial stiffness and reduces vagal activity and BRS in comparison with a control session. Vagal tone may not be fully recovered up to 30 minutes after a resistance exercise bout.
Maximal Strength Training Improves Surfboard Sprint and Endurance Paddling Performance in Competitive and Recreational Surfers
Authors: Coyne Joseph O.C. , Tran Tai T. , Secomb Josh L. , Lundgren Lina E. , Farley Oliver R.L. , Newton Robert U. , Sheppard Jeremy M.
Published: June 2016

Coyne, JOC, Tran, TT, Secomb, JL, Lundgren, LE, Farley, ORL, Newton, RU, and Sheppard, JM. Maximal strength training improves surfboard sprint and endurance paddling performance in competitive and recreational surfers. J Strength Cond Res 31(1): 244–253, 2017—Upper-body (UB) strength has very high correlations with faster surfboard paddling speeds. However, there is no research examining the effects of improving UB strength has on surfboard paddling ability. This study aimed to determine the influence that improvements in UB closed–kinetic chain maximal strength have on surfboard paddling in both competitive and recreational surfers. Seventeen competitive and recreational male surfers (29.7 ± 7.7 years, 177.4 ± 7.4 cm, 76.7 ± 9.9 kg) participated in a repeated-measures, parallel control study design. Anthropometry; 5-, 10-, and 15-m sprint; and 400-m endurance surfboard paddling tests along with pull-up and dip 1 repetition maximum strength tests were assessed pre- and postintervention. Subjects in the training group performed 5 weeks of maximal strength training in the pull-up and dip. Differences between the training and control groups were examined postintervention. The training group increased their speed over the 5-, 10-, and 15-m sprint, whereas the control group became slower (d = 0.71, 0.51, and 0.4, respectively). The training group also displayed faster endurance paddling performance compared with the control group (d = 0.72). Short-term exposure to maximal strength training elicits improvements in paddling performance measures. However, the magnitude of performance increases seems to be dependent on initial strength levels with differential responses between strong and weaker athletes. Although a longer maximal strength training period may have produced more significant paddling improvements in stronger subjects, practitioners are unlikely to have any more than 5 weeks in an uninterrupted block with competitive surfing athletes. This study reveals that a “threshold” level of maximal strength that if possessed, short-term maximal strength training may only provide little improvement in paddling performance.
Pituitary abscess: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Karagiannis Apostolos K A , Dimitropoulou Fotini , Papatheodorou Athanasios , Lyra Stavroula , Seretis Andreas , Vryonidou Andromachi
Published: June 2016

Pituitary abscess is a rare life-threating entity that is usually misdiagnosed as a pituitary tumor with a definite diagnosis only made postoperatively. Over the last several decades, advances in healthcare have led to a significant decrease in morbidity and mortality due to pituitary abscess. We report a case of a 34-year-old woman who was admitted to our department for investigation of a pituitary mass and with symptoms of pituitary dysfunction, headaches and impaired vision. During her admission, she developed meningitis-like symptoms and was treated with antibiotics. She eventually underwent transsphenoidal surgery for excision of the pituitary mass. A significant amount of pus was evident intraoperatively; however, no pathogen was isolated. Six months later, the patient was well and had full recovery of the anterior pituitary function. Her menses returned, and she was only on treatment with desmopressin for diabetes insipidus that developed postoperatively.

Learning points

Pituitary abscess is a rare disease and the reported clinical features vary mimicking other pituitary lesions.

The diagnosis of pituitary abscess is often very difficult to make and rarely included in the differential.

The histological findings of acute inflammatory infiltration confirm the diagnosis of pituitary abscess.

Medical and surgical treatment is usually recommended upon diagnosis of a pituitary abscess.
Obesity, hypertension and aldosterone: is leptin the link?
Authors: Xie Ding , Bollag Wendy B
Published: June 2016

Obesity is a serious health hazard with rapidly increasing prevalence in the United States. In 2014, the World Health Organization estimated that nearly 2 billion people worldwide were overweight with an estimated 600 million of these obese. Obesity is associated with many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Data from the Framingham Heart study suggest that approximately 78% of the risk for hypertension in men and 65% in women is related to excess body weight, a relationship that is further supported by studies showing increases in blood pressure with weight gain and decreases with weight loss. However, the exact mechanism by which excess body fat induces hypertension remains poorly understood. Several clinical studies have demonstrated elevated plasma aldosterone levels in obese individuals, especially those with visceral adiposity, with decreased aldosterone levels measured in concert with reduced blood pressure following weight loss. Since aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone that regulates blood volume and pressure, serum aldosterone levels may link obesity and hypertension. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which obesity induces aldosterone production is unclear. A recent study by Belin de Chantemele and coworkers suggests that one adipose-released factor, leptin, is a direct agonist for aldosterone secretion; other adipose-related factors may also contribute to elevated aldosterone levels in obesity, such as very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), the levels of which are elevated in obesity and which also directly stimulates aldosterone biosynthesis. This focused review explores the possible roles of leptin and VLDL in modulating aldosterone secretion to underlie obesity-associated hypertension.
Reorganização do arranjo físico da caldeiraria de uma empresa do setor metalomecânico por meio do método de Planejamento Sistemático de Layout – SLP
Authors: Turati Silvio Alexsandro , Moroni Filho Elio
Published: June 2016

O arranjo físico correto é relevante para a eficiência operacional da empresa. Este trabalho propõe a reorganização do arranjo físico da caldeiraria de uma empresa metalomecânica localizada na cidade de Araras/SP, tendo por objetivo a melhoria do fluxo de produção. Utilizou-se o método do Planejamento Sistemático de Layout (SLP), sendo que a pesquisa de campo foi dividida nas etapas: obtenção de informações detalhadas sobre o processo e o produto; reuniões com as partes interessadas; determinação do inter-relacionamento das atividades; análise das necessidades de espaço; desenvolvimento do novo arranjo físico. O novo arranjo físico alocou espaço para aquisição de novas máquinas; redistribuiu o maquinário existente por centros de especialidade; transferiu o descarregamento de matéria-prima para dentro do barracão, maximizando o uso das pontes rolantes e mantendo o estoque próximo ao almoxarifado; reduziu o fluxo de empilhadeiras; foram demarcados novos corredores de movimentação; e as áreas de pintura foram isoladas. Concluiu-se que o método SLP mostrou-se eficiente na criação de um arranjo físico.
Problem wartości odstających w badaniu kondycji finansowej przedsiębiorstw budowlanych w Polsce
Authors: Kostrzewska Jadwiga , Pawełek Barbara , Lipieta Artur
Published: June 2016

The results of an analysis of financial standing can be used to study the threat of going bankrupt. Financial indicators are used to evaluate enterprises’ financial standing. Thus, the data from financial statements is the basis for the examination of the financial position. The evaluation of data quality includes the identification of outliers, among other factors. This article presents the results of an empirical study done on how the method of detecting and eliminating outliers chosen influences the effectiveness of a logit model constructed on the basis of samples that either included the outliers or left them out. The research for the paper employed one- and multi-dimensional methods of detecting outliers and their combinations with an analysis of the discriminatory power of the financial indicators. Classification effectiveness of the logit model was assessed by sensitivity and specificity measures. The research covered the years 2005, 2007 and 2009.
Ekonometryczna analiza wpływu kryzysu gospodarczego na zadłużenie publiczne w krajach Unii Europejskiej
Authors: Batóg Jacek
Published: June 2016

The paper examines long-term trends in public debt for countries of the European Union. Special attention is paid to the influence of economic crisis on public debt levels and budget deficits. The conclusions are based on time series models and causality models of GDP and budget deficit as well as on models which describe the long-term levels of relative public debt. The results show a lack of significant correlation between initial and final levels of public debt and the economic growth rate. However, they do show that nagative effects of economic crisis strongly influence the growth of long-term relative public debt levels of European countries.
APPRENTICE STYLE TO COMPETENCY STYLE PSYCHIATRIC TRAINING: 5 YEAR STUDY OF SINGAPORE PSYCHIATRIC TRAINING
Authors: Tor Phern-Chern , Chiam Peak-Chiang
Published: June 2016

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. Introduction Singapore had an apprentice style medical specialization training program until 2010 when it adopted an ACGME certified residency training program. A recent survey showed Singapore psychiatry residents rating their educational environment worse than non-residency psychiatry trainees. To confirm these findings we repeated a 2008 survey of perceived importance and adequacy of 11 aspects of psychiatric training among psychiatry trainees in Singapore. Methods We sent out an electronic survey to all psychiatry trainees in Singapore (residents and non-residents) to rate their perceived importance and adequacy on 11 aspects of psychiatric training on a 5 point Likert scale. Results were analyzed with paired or independent t-test analysis as appropriate with p-values at 0.05. Results The survey was conducted from Apr to Aug 2013 with a response rate of 57.9% (N=44). The perceived adequacy of training was significantly better in 2013 than 2008 with 6 of 11 aspects of training rated higher in 2013. Residents had higher ratings in 16 of 19 significant between group differences of perceived adequacy of training. Conclusions A competency based style residency program has resulted in improved perceived adequacy of psychiatric training compared to an apprentice style program. Further research to assess objective adequacy of psychiatric training under the residency program is recommended.
The population density of Lymnaea columella (Say, 1817) (Mollusca, Lymnaeidae) an intermediate host of Fasciola hepatica (Linnaeus, 1758), in the Caparaó microregion, ES, Brazil
Authors: D’Almeida S. C. G. , Freitas D. F. , Carneiro M. B. , Camargo P. F. , Azevedo J. C. , Martins I. V. F.
Published: June 2016

Abstract The aim of this study was to monitor the population density of Lymnaea columella, an intermediate host of Fasciola hepatica, in various aquatic habitats and in drinking water in the area of the Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Espírito Santo, on Caparaó Microregion, municipality of Alegre, state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. Monthly samplings were performed at certain points between drainage areas and drinking water in cattle and goat production systems during the years 2010 to 2013. The mean temperature, precipitation and the frequency of samples of L. columella were analysed graphically according the monthly average during the study period. A total of 2,038 molluscs were collected, 1558 of which were L. columella, that predominated in all sampled points. The highest average of specimens observed for L. columella was in the years 2010 and 2013 (51.0), and occurred decreased in 2011 (19.8). The temperature and precipitation averaged is 23.7 °C and 141 mm/year, respectively. Rainfall peak occurred in March (2011, 2013) and November (2012), during these periods the population of L. columella growth. There was no significant difference in the relationship between the specimens observed with seasons (dry-wet), thus the population of L. columella remained stable and can be found throughout the year.
Macroeconomic Sources of Recent Interest Rate Fluctuations
Authors: D'Amico Stefania , King Thomas B. , Wei Min
Published: June 2016

The authors use a new statistical method to attribute daily changes in U.S. Treasury yields and inflation compensation to changes in investor beliefs about domestic and foreign growth, inflation, and monetary policy.
PROPORÇÃO DE DOENÇAS MUSCULOESQUELÉTICAS EM MEMBROS INFERIORES NOS INTEGRANTES DA POLÍCIA MILITAR DO ESTADO DA BAHIA
Authors: Silva Daniela Alves , Lima Vanessa Santos , Góes Ana Lúcia Barbosa
Published: June 2016

Introdução: As doenças músculo esqueléticas (DME) são a maior causa de limitação funcional na população adulta e a primeira causa de auxílio-doença no Brasil. O trabalho do policial militar (PM) exige a prática de atividades rigorosas, tornando-o susceptível ao desenvolvimento de lesões nos membros inferiores (MMII). Objetivo: Estimar a proporção de lesões músculo esqueléticas na região dos membros inferiores e fatores associados em integrantes da PM do Estado da Bahia. Métodos: Estudo do tipo transversal de série temporal, realizado com 3.652 diagnósticos relacionados à DME em MMII no período de 2003 a 2007. Para associação entre DME, idade, posto, local de trabalho e segmento corporal utilizaram-se proporção e razão de proporção a 95% de confiança. Resultados: A proporção geral de DME em MMII foi de 27,5%, a maior proporção para o desenvolvimento das doenças em PM se deu a partir de 26 a 34 anos de idade (30,50%), em militares praças (27,80%), no setor operativo (27,8%), sendo o segmento mais afetado joelhos (12,6%). Conclusão: A proporção de DME em MMII em PM foi baixa, tendo como público-alvo praças em plena idade produtiva e que estão na linha de frente de combate. Sugerem-se novos trabalhos evidenciando a problemática em nível nacional, bem como políticas de prevenção, diminuindo as chances de desenvolvimento das lesões.
IMPACTO DOS ASPECTOS SOCIODEMOGRÁFICOS E CLÍNICOS NA QUALIDADE DE VIDA DE PORTADORES DE HTLV-I COM HAM/TSP
Authors: Delazeli Luana Mocellin , Santos Luana Rodrigues , Mendes Selena Márcia Dubois , Baptista Abrahão Fontes , Sá Kátia Nunes
Published: June 2016

Introdução: O vírus linfotrópico de células T Humanas HTLV-1, retrovírus humano, pode provocar, dentre outras, uma doença neurológica: a paraparesia espástica tropical / mielopatia associada ao HTLV-1 (HAM/TSP). É uma doença progressiva e incapacitante podendo gerar distúrbios da marcha, fraqueza muscular e enrijecimento dos membros inferiores, além de comprometimento do equilíbrio, o que impacta na qualidade de vida das pessoas infectadas. Objetivo: Verificar a associação dos domínios da qualidade de vida com aspectos sociodemográficos e clínicos em portadores de HTLV-I com HAM/TSP. Métodos: Estudo observacional de corte transversal em amostra de 115 portadores de HTLV -1 com HAM/TSP de um centro de referência. Os dados foram verificados através do questionário SF-36 e de uma ficha de dados sociodemográficos e clínicos. Utilizou-se o teste Qui-Quadrado para testar o nível de significância entre as variáveis: idade categorizada, cor da pele, classe social, estado civil, escolaridade e diagnóstico de HAM/TSP categorizados, os quais foram relacionados com os domínios de Qualidade de Vida do questionário SF-36. O teste t-student foi utilizado na pesquisa para testar a relação existente entre as variáveis: sexo e atividade física e fisioterapia associado com os domínios da Qualidade de Vida. Resultados: Verificou-se que 69,6% dos participantes eram do sexo feminino, 72,2% tinham idade entre 35 a 64 anos, 59,1% pertenciam à classe social D e 29,6% tinham escolaridade baixa. Quando comparados os domínios da qualidade de vida com o diagnóstico de HAM/TSP, verificou-se maiores comprometimentos em capacidade funcional (p=0,001) e aspecto físico (p=0,002). Pertencer ao gênero feminino e à classe social baixa geraram maior perda da qualidade de vida. Conclusão: Os domínios da QV mais comprometidos nos portadores de HTLV-1 com HAM/TSP definido foram capacidade funcional e aspecto físico. As pessoas mais comprometidas  foram adultos do sexo feminino pertencentes à classe social D.
A költségtávolság alakulása a diszkont és a hagyományos légitársaságok repülőjegyárai alapján, Budapest példáján
Authors: Dudás Gábor , Boros Lajos , Pál Viktor , Pernyész Péter
Published: June 2016

A 20. század második felétől a közlekedési és infokommunikációs technológiák fejlődése jelentős mértékben átalakította az emberek mobilitásának, az áruk szállításának és az információ áramlásának földrajzi és időbeli korlátait, elősegítve ezzel a városok térkapcsolatainak egyre komplexebbé válását. Kutatásunkban egyrészt a diszkont és a hagyományos légitársaságok eltérő üzletpolitikájára és gyakorlataira, másrészt ezek térmódosító kontextusaira koncentrálunk. Elsősorban arra igyekszünk választ kapni, hogy a Malév csődje, valamint a diszkont légitársaságok térhódítása hogyan változtatta meg Budapest légi közlekedési kapcsolatait, légi elérhetőségét, a repülőjegyárakat, valamint, hogy milyen módon formálták a város térbeli elérhetőségét és térkapcsolatait.

A térkapcsolat-változások térképezése alternatív távolságfogalmak használatát indokolja, hiszen a technológiai fejlődés egyre magasabb fokán többé már nem a tér egyes elemei közötti fizikai távolságok a meghatározóak, hanem a megtételükhöz szükséges idő és költség, így a városok térkapcsolatainak mérése és számszerűsítése légi közlekedési adatokból származtatott időtávolság- és költségtávolság-értékek használatát teszi szükségessé.

A kutatás célja a hagyományos és a diszkont légitársaságok eltérő üzletmodelljéből adódóan a két típus által elérhető városok költségtávolságának összehasonlítása és a kapott eredmények térképi megjelenítése. Tanulmányunkban kvantitatív adatelemzési módszerekre és automatizált internetes adatgyűjtésre építve kidolgoztunk egy olyan adatelemzési módszert és GIS-alapú térképi ábrázolást, amely alkalmasnak bizonyulhat az európai városok és Budapest közötti alternatív távolságok ábrázolására és a térkapcsolatok feltárására. Kutatásunk megerősítette, hogy a diszkont légitársaságok kedvezőbb áron kínálnak repülőjegyeket, valamint a vizsgált időpontokat figyelembe véve a legkedvezőbb áron az egy hónapra előre foglalt jegyek esetében utazhatunk Budapestről európai célállomásokra.