bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Mulifactor Models with Garch Structure in Carbon Emissions Risk Management
Authors: Włodarczyk Aneta , Kadłubek Marta
Published: October 2018

Tightening the environmental norms that result from the priorities of the EU 2030 Energy and Climate Package and the reform of the EU ETS have caused the necessity to implement an effective system of managing the risk of carbon dioxide emission and integrate it with the existing enterprise management system. Evaluation of the direction and strength of correlation between EUA price changes and energy companies stock price returns is crucial from point of view the managerial staff making proper decisions about the use of the CO2 emission permits by energy companies. It is an important stage of carbon emission risk management process. The aim of this paper is to verify the possibility of use the multifactor models with GARCH structure as a tool supporting the carbon emission management process in energy companies. Empirical analysis is connected with the estimation of multifactor models with GARCH structure in the Phase II and Phase III of the EU ETS functioning for two groups of Polish energy companies: group of the Respect Index companies and others. Such an approach allows to check whether the Respect Index companies are more robust than others on the carbon emission risk, in particular the EUA price risk associated with the intensification works on modifying the EU ETS functioning. We found that the impact of EUA price changes on energy companies stock returns and their volatility is statistically insignificant in case of all Respect Index companies.
The Effects of Implementing 5S as the Foundation for Work Improvement on the Workplace
Authors: Bartnicka Celina
Published: October 2018

The article presents the main aspects which require attention when optimizing and improving the manufacturing process, i.e.: the human resources aspect, the technical aspect and the organizational aspect. Concepts such as the Total Quality Management, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing claim that work improvement should be a continuous process. The foundation for implementing the improvement of processes, regardless of the concept, are well-organized and orderly workplaces as well as standardization, which can be achieved thanks to the Japanese 5S method.
Improving Production Efficiency of Large Size Molds as a Result of Innovative Quality Control Process
Authors: Skowron-Grabowska Beata , Jasiński Jarosław , Jasińska Anna , Beňo Pavel , Paško Ján
Published: October 2018

One of the basic elements of the technological chain of manufacturing products in the European Union is the metal processing sector, which is one of the dynamically developing industries. An important department in the aforementioned sector is the production of unconventional, large-size injection molds and tools weighing more than 10 tons. Very often large-size components in the production process must be precisely checked and subjected to appropriate corrective actions at the quality control stage, in order to avoid non-compliance with customer requirements, and thus increased costs related to reducing production efficiency, logistics of large-size elements from the customer back to the manufacturer of the mold in order to correct it, and also complaints of the final product connected with dimensional changes and surface defects in the casting process. This paper presents a case study of the implementation of the innovative quality control process to verify the production of large-size molds for aluminum high pressure casting with the spotting press machine, allowing for product quality improvement. The introduction of the innovative press for spotting molds to the quality control stage also leads to the improvement of production efficiency, which was confirmed by the results of an increase of the OEE coefficient in the entire production process. In addition, a significant reduction in the production time of products was achieved, and the cost of the mold production process was lowered.
Production Control in the Company
Authors: Dźwigoł Henryk , Firlej Lucyna , Muntean Andreea Cipriana
Published: October 2018

The aim of the article is to get to know the essence of production control in the activity of enterprises. This background presents: the role of control in the enterprise and its classification with particular emphasis on production control. Production control plays an important role in the proper course of the production process. On the one hand, it comes down to the preparation of production plans, creating cost budgets for the company's production parts, and on the other hand to control their implementation. In the scope of production control, economic control of production is taken into account, defined as a direct and indirect impact on the shape of the assortment- and quantity-related structure of production and its course in time and space to ensure, in the given circumstances, the best achievement of the organization's goals. Production control may refer to strategic planning, where the most important is to strike a balance between the flexibility of using production means and workforce, availability of technology and substitute technologies or operational planning, where the key task is to find and eliminate bottlenecks occurring in the production process.
Forecasts of Size of Steel Production in Poland until 2022
Authors: Gajdzik Bożena
Published: October 2018

The article presents the results of forecasting the volume (size) of steel production in Poland based on selected adaptation models. The data used in forecasting were the annual size of steel production in the period from 2000 to 2017. Data on the size of steel production in Poland were obtained from reports of both the Polish Steel Association in Katowice (Poland) and the World Steel Association. The accuracy of predictions was determined by the values of real deviation of forecasted variable from forecasts (extinguished - ex post) using square root calculated from mean square error of apparent forecasts, ie RMSE - Root Mean Square Error and mean value of relative error of expired forecasts Ψ. Forecasts can be used in making decisions in metallurgical enterprises for building production scenarios.
Selected Aspects of Development of Human Capital in Industrial Enterprises
Authors: Ogórek Marzena , Strycharska Dominika
Published: October 2018

This paper presents the results of research, conducted using a questionnaire form, in dynamically developing industrial enterprises located in the economic zones of southern Poland. The results of these studies were referred to research carried out in public utility entities located in the same geographical area. These studies concerned, among others, the development of human and intellectual capital, which is why analysis was carried out on the following issues: the level of cooperation between colleagues, the level of exchange of information and experience among colleagues, the manager understands and facilitates the flow of information among colleagues, the degree of computerization in the workplace and the implementation of solutions in the company aimed at preserving the acquired knowledge and experience.
Knowledge Management as a Component of Integrated Management Systems
Authors: Skuza Zbigniew , Prusak Rafał
Published: October 2018

Integrated management systems are increasingly used in modern enterprises. They allow for a more comprehensive approach to a number of important issues, affecting the modification of activities and process improvement. However, the integration itself often does not provide the right effects (apart from economic ones) without leading to real, multifaceted coupling of activities between the components of the system. To obtain such effects, it is necessary to connect the components in one system. Knowledge management can be a helpful element in this activity. Each component of the integrated management systems generates a large number of data and information. Their use is possible only by building on their basis knowledge leading to improvement of activities or innovation. The use of knowledge, especially hidden knowledge that contains unique and inaccessible knowledge for competitors, should be a priority for today's enterprises. The study presents considerations regarding the possibility of including knowledge management in integrated management systems, treating knowledge as a basic element connecting the system.
Quality Improvement in the Production Company
Authors: Rosak-Szyrocka Joanna , Knop Krzysztof
Published: October 2018

The article discusses the quality improvement concept in terms of companies’ competitiveness and its operations. The research object is a production company located in Silesia province. We analyzed the quality problems occurring in the company based on the selected quality management tools: Ishikawa diagram and the Pareto-Lorenz. It was presented and discussed basic types of waste occurring in the enterprise. It was proposed improvement actions and highlights the importance of immaterial resources - the company's workers.
Information Quality Management and the Aspect of Profit and Loss in the Customer Service Process
Authors: Żywiołek Justyna , Ulewicz Robert
Published: October 2018

Risk management is an inseparable part of every organization's life. It should be an integral part of the strategy implemented in all of the organizations. The strategy should be constructed in such a way that the management of the risk functions not only as a system avoiding losses, but also allowing to perceive and use opportunities, and create new opportunities for the organization. The aim of the article is to demonstrate the necessity of analyzing the risk of information quality, which significantly affects the customer service process. This analysis was carried out on the basis of T. Kaczmarek's research, which specified the list of 46 elements of the sick enterprise. On its basis, the areas in which information about customer service were created were analyzed, which allowed to identify potentially threatened places and the effects of these threats. The analysis showed that the highest level of risk is related to the delivery time. Individual and corporate clients pay special attention to the lack, or incorrect information on securing the shipment. The lowest level of risk in the examined enterprise concerns the terms of technical assistance, because this item is usually described by the seller in the purchase regulations.
Factors of Succession of Polish Family Production and Mixed Enterprises
Authors: Dźwigoł-Barosz Mariola , Lazarenko Dmytro
Published: October 2018

The article presents issues in the area of succession of family enterprises. Particular attention has been paid to succession processes in Polish enterprises, with particular emphasis on the upcoming generational change of family entrepreneurs. The factors determining a successful succession process in family enterprises were indicated on the basis of the research cited in the authors' study and the methodology for examining the factors determining the succession process of Silesian family enterprises was presented. The results of the own research questionnaire in the form of a ranking of factors according to the successors and nestors of the examined production and mixed enterprises were presented.
Paths to Explain Employee Job Satisfaction. A Fuzzy-Set Analysis
Authors: Gębczyńska Magdalena , Kwiotkowska Anna
Published: October 2018

Job satisfaction is one of the most researched topics in management literature taking into consideration the fact that it has been found out that this concept has many practical implications in the workplace. Job satisfaction is very complex phenomenon which is influenced by numerous factors. Previous studies provide a partial view of job satisfaction, because they are usually focused on the relationship between a single factor and job satisfaction, without taking a global view to indicate how different factors simultaneously affect job satisfaction. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how different factors such as: work family balance, teamwork, personal environment fit, job security and supervisor support simultaneously influence job satisfactions. The sample of the study includes employees of Polish small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis is used to analyze data collected in surveys from 274 employees. The results contribute to research on job satisfaction by outlining several combinations of factors which create a paths to explain employee job satisfaction: (1) teamwork and supervisor support, (2) personal environment fit, job security and supervisor support with absence of work family balance, (3) work family balance, job security and supervisor support.
Controlling in the Process of Managing a Modern Enterprise
Authors: Dźwigoł Henryk , Bezchasnyi Oleksii
Published: October 2018

The aim of the article is the analysis of controlling in relation to the management of a contemporary enterprise. Against this background, the essence and concept of controlling, its classification and importance for the development of the company were presented. The scope of controlling applications in enterprises' operations depends mainly on the needs of management staff and their managerial awareness. The fact that the views concerning him are not unambiguous, they do not have a universal form, equally understood terms and tasks, strictly defined and assigned actions or methods, is of great significance. The area with which controlling is related applies to all areas of the company's operations. Support for business management takes place in the area of the entire organization. Controlling with its instruments reaches everywhere, coordinates management in all company's cells. Presented premises in the scope of organization of controlling in enterprises, allow to state that the smaller enterprise, the more often controlling appears as a linear cell or a group of cells located in the linear hierarchy. In addition, they indicate that the time of implementation of controlling in the case of large enterprises (in this case also state-owned) is longer than in enterprises from the SME sector (most often private), which is mainly related to the reluctant attitude to changes of employees and management of these organizations, and their internal adjustments.
Quality Assessment of E-Commerce Service in the Context of Customer Expiriences
Authors: Radziszewska Aleksandra
Published: October 2018

With rapid growth of the Internet, companies adopted the new information and communication technology to offer e-services to their customers. This paper addresses e-service quality issue in the electronic marketplace. Service quality of e-retailers has been recognized as an important factor in determining success of e-commerce ventures. The objective of this research is to develop a theoretical, comprehensive, and measurable framework for assessing the quality of e-commerce services and to indicate factors, which are significant for customers satisfaction and high quality online shopping experiences. This paper reviewed the most recognized evaluation criteria, which are used in different e-commerce websites, and proposes a general comprehensive framework for evaluating the quality of any e-commerce service regarding to two main areas: website features and customer service in e-commerce platform. The detailed list of quality attributes in both assessment areas was derived from the reviewed literature. The survey and analysis described in this paper enable a better understanding of the influence these quality attributes on the main quality assessment categories. The results provide an important foundation for the understanding of quality in e-commerce services that will allow to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each e-commerce service. This paper concludes by discussing the findings of this study and highlighting areas for the future research.
The Influence of Industry 4.0 on the Enterprise Competitiveness
Authors: Stasiak-Betlejewska Renata , Parv Luminita , Gliń Wojciech
Published: October 2018

Contemporary enterprises are focused on the following dynamic economic, social and technical changes on the market having a big influence on the consumers and producers. Enterprises development is linked with continuous improvement of the entire organization what result in the shaping production organization. Paper presents research results on the effects of an Industry 4.0 implementing within creating Polish enterprise competiveness.
Ergonomic Diagnosis of a Computer Workstation
Authors: Żabińska Iwona , Kuboszek Artur , Sujova Erika , Zitnansky Jan
Published: October 2018

The article presents the results of research carried out as a part of a project aimed at integrated ergonomic diagnosis of the work environment in terms of improvement of technical and psychosocial conditions. The research carried out so far included small and medium-sized enterprises located in the Śląskie Voivodeship. The tests included blue-collar workers as well as administrative (white-collar) workers. Ergonomic diagnosis was carried out by direct observation of employees at the workplace using tools such as the Ergonomic Control Test CET II and the Dortmund list. This article presents the results of ergonomic analysis at a workstation with a computer.
A Computerized Tool for Education and Training on Ergonomic Risk Evaluation
Authors: Lasota Andrzej Marek , Baron-Polańczyk Eunika
Published: October 2018

In the light of the challenges of the Industry 4.0 the weight of safety and health, and ergonomics are rising. Nowadays one of the common problem in industry are work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). Therefore, an ergonomic risk evaluation is crucial as well the knowledge and education in this area. This paper presents a computerized tool for ergonomic education on ergonomic risk evaluation at the workplace. The tool based on quick exposure check pen and paper technique and Excel spreadsheet environment. It is easy to use and assists students in the evaluation of real as well of simulated workplaces. The proposed tool includes a few integrated parts: background description, students - observer’s and worker’s evaluation and results with visual interpretation. The preliminary evaluation of the Excel tool was carried out by students. It showed that it is useful and easy in use. And the students' opinions on the computerized tool for ergonomic risk evaluation are very encouraging and promise what was presented in this study.
Environmental Efficiency of Industrial Symbiosis – LCA Case Study for Gypsum Exchange
Authors: Marcinkowski Andrzej
Published: October 2018

A review of the available literature concerning environmental impact assessment for industrial symbiosis has been carried out. The authors have recommended the use of life cycle assessment method for this purpose. It was stated that so far few studies presenting LCA results of industrial symbiosis have been published. Among the factors which contribute to the success of symbiotic exchange, the close location of collaborating companies has been often mentioned. This paper presents LCA results concerning the environmental impact of symbiotic gypsum transmission. Concepts of relative distance and critical distance for the case of industrial symbiosis were proposed and defined. Significant difference between critical distance obtained for particular endpoints were observed (3.5- 564 km). Application of Life Cycle Sustainability Triangle enabled the estimation of critical distance taking into account various impact categories. A sensitivity analysis indicated the relationship between critical distance and the means of transport which reflected the effect of scale. The critical distance determined for heavy trucks was 3.2 - 3.9 times longer than in case of lighter vehicles.
The Relationship between Environmental Uncertainty and Enterprise Performance. A Fuzzy-Set Analysis
Authors: Kwiotkowska Anna , Gębczyńska Magdalena
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this paper is to explore causal complexity in the relationship between environmental uncertainty and firm’s performance. Due to complexity in the external and internal environment, the relationship between environment and firm performance rests not only on a single attribute but on the interrelation and complementarities between multiple characteristics such as firm features and external factors. This study examines the influence of a firm’s specific characteristics and the dimensions of environmental uncertainty on the company’s performance. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis is used to analyze data collected via questionnaires from 58 Polish small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The results suggest that characteristics of the general business environment, as well as the firm-specific characteristics all matter to firm performance. In addition, our findings clearly demonstrate that the determination of high firm performance is underpinned by substantial interdependence among the selected conditions and complexity. Therefore, any particular condition may have a different or even opposite effect on the outcome depending on the presence or absence of other conditions. Based on this, we conclude that external environmental uncertainty characteristics, with the dimensions of competitive intensity, technological turbulence and market/demand turbulence, are not as important as the other conditions for high-performing firms. The study offers a new perspective on the relationship between environmental uncertainty and firm performance with its systematic comparative analysis of complex cases. It identifies different combinations of conditions (paths) leading to a high firm performance.
Comparative Analysis of Danger Zone Ranges Determined for LNG in the Coastal Area
Authors: Kalbarczyk-Jedynak Agnieszka , Stochła Dorota , Patsch Marek
Published: October 2018

The analysis of danger zone ranges for LNG in the coastal area is an important task on account of, inter alia, the safety of human life. It is not an easy process, which is why we consider an danger situation for various weather conditions in the function of constant wind speeds and for various wind speeds in constant weather stability. Pasquill weather stability scale and Beaufort scale with regard to terrain roughness were adopted for the analysis. Both scenarios were considered in the example of Q-flex type vessels in the Świnoujście terminal for two methods of LNG release, i.e. related to a sudden explosion and slow release caused by a leak. The analysis was conducted and considered for the values in the top and bottom flammability limit. Modelling of the danger zone range was analysed with DNV PHAST software, version 7.11. In the process of comparison of the situation related to the risk of explosion in the function of various weather stabilities according to Pasquill scale and constant wind speeds, the values of 1.5 m/s and 5 m/s were adopted, corresponding to 1 and 3 wind force on the Beaufort scale. Those speeds correspond to the water conditions featuring tiny ripples and small waves, the crests of which start to break. The adopted weather stabilities analysed for wind speed equal to 1.5 m/s are A, B, D. A-type stability signifies the least stable atmospheric conditions, and D-type means neutral conditions. In turn, for the wind speed of 5 m/s B, D and F parameters in Pasquill scale were selected. Furthermore, ranges for variable wind speed values were analysed for the selected Pasquill stability.
Analysis of Sustainable Production Practices Implemented by Car Manufacturers
Authors: Hąbek Patrycja , Lavios Villahoz Juan Jose
Published: October 2018

Companies are increasingly implementing sustainable solutions as they face a growing sustainability demands from different stakeholders. The question is whether car manufacturers adhered to sustainable production principles and at what level they are doing it in practice. The Lowell Center for Sustainable Production (LCSP) is used as a model to analyse the main aspects of sustainable production and assess the companies in the automotive sector in European Union. The data was collected from the Corporate Social Responsibility/ Sustainability reports of the individual car manufacturers found in the online data base of Global Reporting Initiative. Empirical evidence shows the adherence of these companies to the LCSP sustainable production principles. All the studied companies seem to be conscious of the significance of sustainability for the automotive industry. Although most of the sustainable production practices are focused on the environmental dimension of sustainability, employee and social aspects are not ignored in the reports.
Towards Smart City: Influence of Air Pollution on the Local Community of the Zabrze City in Surveys and Field Research
Authors: Ignac-Nowicka Jolanta
Published: October 2018

The results of the conducted pilot research indicated the basic local problems of the residents of Zabrze city. The purpose of the next research was to answer the question: how to improve the quality of life of residents in a city with significant air pollution. Activities aimed at this goal are inscribed in the idea of "smart city". The article presents the results of pilot measurements of air pollution with toxic gases in the Zabrze city in the Silesian agglomeration (Poland). Field studies at selected locations in the city concerned measurements of nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide. The aim of these studies was to identify areas of the city with significant air pollution with toxic gases in order to plan further detailed research. Made measurements showed the appearance of the local problem of accumulation of pollutants in several areas of the city. The results obtained were compared with surveys conducted among residents of the Zabrze city. The aim of the survey was to examine the respondents' awareness of: the location of areas with noticeable air pollution and health problems resulting from air pollution in the place of residence. The article also presents a plan of possible actions for the city of Zabrze within the framework of the "smart city" idea to improve the quality of life of the local city community in conditions of increased emission of gas pollution in the city.
Optimizing the Use of Human Resources in Industrial-Service Enterprises
Authors: Tychoniuk Agnieszka , Wyczółkowski Ryszard , Stuchlý Vladimír
Published: October 2018

The optimal use of resources available in the enterprise is important regardless of the size of the company and the industry in which it operates. Enterprises are therefore forced constantly to make alternative choices related to the allocation of available resources and to optimize these choices. The article addresses the problem of the approach to optimizing the use of human resources particularly, the use of extra employee qualifications e.g., manual skills, pressure resistance, work precision, the ability to read schematic diagrams, etc. in the context of technical requirements for a given task. This is extremely important in the situation when subsequent works are individual and the conditions in which they will be performed, cannot be predicted in 100%, they may differ from those that have been implemented so far, and at the same time numerous orders of various nature are being implemented. In this situation, an accurate prediction of the requirements posed by new tasks and the appropriate selection of teams executing them can have an impact on the effectiveness of the task completion process. In the article, this problem is presented on the example of a medium-sized service enterprise operating in the industry-related sector operating basically on tender procedures and tender contests. The works are carried out on the customer's premises, often with new customers or in new field conditions. Thus, the success of the undertaking depends mainly on the optimal selection of employees with appropriate qualifications and competences. The example of an investment task is used to show a method of identifying characteristics relevant to the task as well as selection of employees in order to use the capabilities of human teams better. Technical aspects of task implementation and an employees team selection with regard to the absolutely required technical qualifications as well as the behavioral and physical skills necessary for its implementation are taken into account. The described method can be used for future tasks regardless of the changing conditions of their implementation. The intention of the authors is to develop a tool supporting the decision-making process in this area, so that it can also be used by managers with lower technical competences.
Trust in Technology in Case of Humanoids Used for the Care for the Senior Persons
Authors: Ejdys Joanna
Published: October 2018

The dynamics of demographic changes manifested in the processes of an ageing population affect Poland.In response to the situation, gerontechnology is emerging as an interdisciplinary field of scientific research in which technology is directed towards the aspirations and opportunities of the older persons. One of the examples of technologies that will be able to support the ageing population in the future are humanoids, that is, robots resembling a human being and equipped with artificial intelligence. The purpose of this article was to examine relationships between trust in the use of humanoids to care for the older people, the usefulness of technology, the ease of use, perceived threats, general trust and trust in science and technology. A survey method was used to collect data for research. The electronic questionnaire survey was disseminated among members of the Polish society. 643 filled questionnaires were received.
Retail Format Competition: The Case of Grocery Discount Stores and Why They Haven’t Conquered the Chinese Market (Yet)
Authors: Hardaker Sina
Published: October 2018

The international expansion of the German discounters Aldi and Lidl in recent years has been a large success in grocery retailing. In China, the world’s largest grocery retail market, however, grocery discounters have not (yet) established a physical store presence. In 2017 Aldi Süd and Lidl for the first time entered a new market without the help of a physical store, implementing an online shop in China. As to the format’s future, significant disagreement amongst retail experts exists. This paper, which is based on qualitative interviews with high-ranking senior executives of international retailers, argues for three major reasons as to why the discount format has not hitherto gained a foothold in the Chinese market. Firstly, due to the characteristics and challenges of China’s market, such as high fragmentation as well as the need for strong localisation, a high standardisation of the format is not possible. Secondly, the extremely low-margin operation of discounters faces a price level in China that is already very low, limiting one of the discounter’s major competitive advantages. Thirdly, the discount format is facing a lack of consumer acceptance, toughening the establishment of private brands, which represents one of the major characteristics of the discount format.
Extended T-type Inverter
Authors: Rąbkowski Jacek , Kopacz Rafał
Published: October 2018

This paper presents a new concept for a power electronic converter - the extended T-type (eT) inverter, which is a combination of a three-phase inverter and a three-level direct current (dc)/dc converter. The novel converter shows better performance than a comparable system composed of two converters: a T-type inverter and a boost converter. At first, the three-level dc/dc converter is able to boost the input voltage but also affects the neutral point potential. The operation principles of the eT inverter are explained and a simulation study of the SiC-based 6 kVA system is presented in this paper. Presented results show a serious reduction of the DC-link capacitors and the input inductor. Furthermore, suitable SiC power semiconductor devices are selected and power losses are estimated using Saber software in reference to a comparative T-type inverter. According to the simulations, the 50 kHz/6 kVA inverter feed from the low voltage (250 V) shows <2.5% of power losses in the suggested SiC metal oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) and Schottky diodes. Finally, a 6 kVA laboratory model was designed, built and tested. Conducted measurements show that despite low capacitance (2 × 30 μF/450 V), the neutral point potential is balanced, and the observed efficiency of the inverter is around 96%.
The Role of the Piechcin Centre in the Development of Specialised Tourism With a View to Diver Preparation for Penetration of the Baltic Sea
Authors: Cichowska Jolanta , Garbacz Jerzy K. , Ciechalski Jerzy
Published: October 2018

This work is a preliminary pilot research aiming at defining the role of the Piechcin Diving Centre in the development of specialised tourism. Particular attention was paid to the various elements defining the quality of the services offered. The key aspects and reasons for which respondents visit the centre were also determined. Both the customer’s expectations of the organiser of this form of recreation were analysed, and research was made to help understand whether the time the customers spends at the centre facilitates a positive decision regarding the participation in diving trips in larger bodies of water, with particular consideration of the Baltic Sea. Different forms of cooperation between the centre and regional authorities in terms of promoting the region were also reviewed.
Determinants of health behaviors in individuals of medical and non-medical professions
Authors: Nowicki Grzegorz Józef , Ślusarska Barbara , Rudnicka-Drożak Ewa , Wiśniewska Anna , Jędrzejkiewicz Bernadeta , Pielaszkiewicz Kamil , Sekut Aleksandra
Published: October 2018

Aim. Determination of health behaviors in the group of people performing medical and non-medical professions.

Material and methods. The research covered 598 individuals divided into two groups: those performing medical professions (group M, n = 305) and non-medical (group P; n = 293). Standardized tools were used: Health Behavior Inventory, Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale - version B, General Self-Efficacy Scale on risk factors and prevention of civilization diseases (own authorship). The controls were subjected to measurement of blood pressure as well as their height and body mass tests.

Results. In group M, the level of self-efficacy, the location of health control in terms of the influence of the others and the chance, age, incidence of cardiovascular diseases in the father, smoking and the level of mean systolic blood pressure explain 17.5% of the variability of health behavior. In group P, the level of self-efficacy, location of health control in terms of the influence of the others and the chance, monthly net income per a family member, the occurrence of neoplasms in siblings, smoking, average blood pressure and the level of knowledge about risk factors and prevention of civilization diseases explain 27.9% of the variance of the health behavior variable.

Conclusions. There is a diversification of selected determinants of health behaviors in the group of individuals performing medical and non-medical professions, with their stronger impact on non-medical professionals (17.5% vs. 27.9% of their variability).
Women’s postnatal care based on the Polish and international recommendations
Authors: Czerwińska-Osipiak Agnieszka , Pięta Beata , Kamińska Justyna , Nowakowska Halina
Published: October 2018

Introduction. The issue of high-risk pregnancy has been widely discussed in the recent years. As a result, many countries have introduced programs to improve perinatal care in order to meet the needs of pregnant women as well as those going into labour. Much less attention was dedicated to health and social circumstances of women in the postpartum period. The World Health Organisation developed a document (WHO Recommendations on Postnatal Care of the Mother and Newborn, 2013) in which it clearly defines recommendations formulated for the professionals who are care providers to the child and the mother after birth. The authors of the report indicate that the postnatal period is crucial for both the mothers and their children, and the lack of proper care given to them may lead to deterioration of their health and even death. According to the code of professional practice, the Polish midwife identifies and determines individuals’ requirements as well as health needs, recognizes nursing difficulties, and, effectively plans and oversees their care. The Polish guideline for the highest standard of medical care during pregnancy, the delivery, the postpartum period and the neonatal care is the Regulation of the Health Minister from 20th September 2012.

Aim. This paper collected current and adopted recommendations regarding postpartum care with an emphasis on the significant role of the midwife.
Quality Assurance in Moving and Handling Education: Myth or Legend
Authors: Hares Kevin , Wanless Stephen
Published: October 2018

Introduction. The lack of quality assurance within moving and handling education leads to an inconsistency in training and practice.

Aim. This article discusses the implications for practice and the need for a more robust regulatory framework and standards to be adopted within the European Union.
Adsorption of Congo Red from Aqueous Solutions by Porous Soybean Curd Xerogels
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Li Yanhui , Du Qiuju , Li Qi
Published: October 2018

Soybean curd is a very popular food containing high-quality protein, polyunsaturated fats, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. This study aims to prepare porous soybean curd xerogels via a vacuum freeze drying method and uses them as adsorbents to remove congo red from aqueous solutions. The morphology and functional groups of the soybean curd xerogels were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, respectively. The adsorption properties of congo red onto the soybean curd xerogels were carried out through investigating the infl uencing experimental parameters such as the drying method, solution pH, adsorbent dose, contact time and temperature. The results showed that the adsorption isotherm data were fitted well to the Freundlich isotherm. Adsorption kinetics of congo red onto the soybean curd followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The thermodynamic parameters, such as ΔG0, ΔH0 and ΔS0, were also determined.
Influence of gold marker for magnetic resonance imaging during prostate radiotherapy
Authors: Tanaka Osamu , Komeda Hisao , Hirose Shigeki , Taniguchi Takuya , Ono Kousei , Yama Eiichi , Matsuo Masayuki
Published: October 2018

Gold markers (GM) are increasingly used for CT and MRI registration during in intensity-modulated radiation therapy for prostate cancer. Additionally, diffusion-weighted imaging has been adopted to measure the effects of radiotherapy for prostate cancer, similar to tests of blood prostate-specific antigen levels. As diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is often affected by a magnetic component, we evaluated the influence of GM on the Diffusion weighted images in three cases. We found that the size range of signal void of GM in MRI was 2–5 mm. We conclude that a GM would not affect the quality of DWI in daily practice.
Comparative study between Acuros XB algorithm and Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm in the case of heterogeneity for the treatment of lung cancer
Authors: Krabch Mohammed El Adnani , Chetaine Abdelouahed , Nourreddine Abdelati , Er-Radi Fatim Zohra , Baddouh Laila
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of heterogeneity on the dose calculation for two algorithms implemented in the TPS “Analytical Anisotropic Algorithm (AAA) and Acuros XB” and validated the use of Acuros XB algorithm in clinical routine. First, we compare the dose calculated by these algorithms and the dose measured at the given point P, which is found after heterogeneity insert. Second, we extend our work on clinical cases that present a complex heterogeneity. By evaluating the impact of the choice of the algorithm on the dose coverage of the tumor, and the dose received by the organs at risk for 20 patients affected by lung cancer.

The result of our phantom study showed a good agreement with several studies that showed the superiority of the Acuros XB over the AAA in predicting dose when it concerns heterogeneous media. The treatment plans for 20 lung cancers were calculated by two algorithms AAA and Acuros XB, the results show a statistical significant difference between algorithms for Homogeneity Index and the maximum dose of planning target volume (HI: 0.11±0.01 vs 0.05±0.01 p = 0.04; Dmax: 69.30±3.12 vs 68.51±2.64 p = 0.02). Instead, no statistically significant difference was observed for conformity index CI and mean dose (CI: 0.98±0.18 vs 0.99±0.14 p = 0.33; Dmean: 66.3±0.65 vs 66.10 ±0.61 p = 0.54). For organs at risk, the maximum dose for spinal cord, mean dose and D37 % of lung minus GTV (dose receiving 37% of lung volume) were found to be lower for AAA plans than Acuros XB and the differences were statistically significant (p<0.05). For the heart D33% and D67% were found to be higher for AAA plans than Acuros XB and the differences were statistically significant (p<0.05), but No difference was observed for D100% of the heart.

The use of the AXB algorithm is suitable in the case of presence of heterogeneity, because it allows to have a better accuracy close to the Monte Carlo calculation.
Radiation monitoring of non-lead-lined treatment room in general pediatric ward and adjacent areas for high dose 131Iodine-mIBG
Authors: Chuamsaamarkkee Krisanat , Charoenphun Putthiporn , Kamwang Natthaporn , Monthonwattana Sahakan , Changmuang Wirote , Thongklam Kittiphong , Kositwattanarerk Arpakorn , Anongpornjossakul Yoch , Chamroonrat Wichana , Sritara Chanika
Published: October 2018

Background: 131I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (mIBG) offers an effectively targeted radionuclide therapy in pediatric patients. According to radiation protection authority in our country, the patient treated with high-dose (>1100 MBq) radioiodine is recommended to stay in the hospital. Hence, this study intends to measure the radiation exposure in nonlead-lined treatment room installing with portable lead shields located in general pediatric ward and surrounding areas. In addition, this study also aims to measure the radiation exposure to the family caregiver in pediatric patients received high dose 131I-mIBG.

Methods: Environmental OSL (optically stimulated luminescence) monitoring devices (InLight®, Al2O3:C) were prepared and calibrated by Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT). Twenty-five set of OSLs were placed in and surrounded the treatment room. Dose to family caregiver was recorded by digital semiconductor dosimeter (ALOKA PDM-112) also calibrated by TINT. The measurement was carried for four pediatric patients treated with 131IMIBG (activity 3700 – 5500 MBq).

Results: The ambient doses equivalent and the dose rate were analyzed, the limit of 10 and 0.5 μSv/h are accepted for radiation worker and member of the public, respectively. The dose rate around the patient bed and toilet were high as expected. Dose rates at the wall of adjacent room and corridor were slightly greater than the public limit (range 1.82 to 4.48 μSv/h). Remarkably, the dose rates at caregiver chair (outside the shielding) were exceeded the limits (30.57 ± 5.69 μSv/h). Consequently, this was correlated with high personal dose equivalent to family caregivers which listed as 175, 1632, 6760 and 7433 μSv for the patient age of 15, 5, 1 and 1 year respectively.

Conclusion: These radiation monitoring data provided the important information to manage radiation protection and aware of radiation exposure when using non-lead-lined treatment room in general pediatric ward.
Physiological Weight Loss Among Neonates: Associated Factors and Compliance with Normative Charts
Authors: Johnen Carla , Daugule Ilva
Published: October 2018

Neonates typically have a physiological weight loss (PWL) during the first days of life. Several studies about PWL and its influencing factors have been performed worldwide, resulting in the development of normative charts to identify high risk neonates. Up to now there is neither a study about PWL in Latvia nor charts developed for the Baltic region. The objective of the study was to analyse PWL and associated factors in Latvian neonates as well as to evaluate the possibility to use PWL charts of the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP). The study included data (gestational week, delivery type, sex, feeding type, health status) of 220 Latvian newborns treated in the neonatology department of Children Clinical Hospital Gaiļezers and in-an out-patient praxis in Riga. Their mean PWL was compared among neonates with different factors and plotted on PWL charts. The mean PWL was 6.4% (SD ± 2.31%) and in univariate analysis it was associated with feeding type (p = 0.06) and health status (p = 0.01). In multiple regression analysis PWL was significantly associated with health status (p = 0.01). The usage of AAP charts could be generally recommended to identify high risk neonates, but development of charts for the Baltics should be discussed..
Determinants of Reverse Mortgage Usage in Malaysia
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed Ishaq , Sulaiman Noralfishah
Published: October 2018

This study aims to identify the factors that influence a household’s willingness to use reverse mortgage as a source of supplementary income in old age by adopting the original Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and extending it with three other additional constructs. Using a convenience sampling technique, a total of 391 valid questionnaires were used for data analysis. The data analysis was conducted using the SmartPLS software, version 3.2.6. The results suggest that the sense of attachment to a place, attitude, motive of bequest, social influence and perceived ability positively influence a household’s willingness to use reverse mortgage, while financial behavior was found to negatively influence the willingness to do so. The findings of this study extend the application of the TPB to the domain of reverse mortgage product.
Ruin Pubs in Budapest: Blessing or Curse?
Authors: Hajnal István
Published: October 2018

One of the most prominent tourist attractions in Budapest is the ruin pub district. Here, in ruined, rundown buildings, clubs that are mainly aimed at young foreigners, participants in party tourism, have sprung up like mushrooms. In Inner Erzsébetváros, the housing prices have significantly risen, since investors see the short- or long-term renting of the apartments as a good opportunity. Those who live in the district, however, find the noise of parties to be too loud, while the crowd and the dirt reduces their quality of life. The apartments located near these pubs are so-called “stigmatized properties”, since their value is shaped by the - positive or negative - opinion of the community. Using the method of hedonic analysis, this article examines the question of whether ruin pubs are a blessing or a curse to surrounding apartments, whether their effect increases or, on the contrary, decreases the apartments’ values.