bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Iron-containing phases in fly ashes from different combustion systems
Authors: Szumiata Tadeusz , Gzik-Szumiata Małgorzata , Brzózka Katarzyna , Górka Bogumił , Gawroński Michał , Świetlik Ryszard , Trojanowska Marzena 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The investigations of iron-containing phases existing in fly ashes were performed using transmission Mössbauer spectrometry. The examined samples of fly ashes were collected from different coal combustion systems, that is, stoker-fired boiler in municipal heating plant and pulverized coal boiler in power plant. Several phases are identified in the samples: iron oxides, paramagnetic aluminosilicate glass with Fe3+ ions and Al2O4-type spinel with Fe2+ ions. It was pointed out that proportions of contents of phases strongly depend not only on the combustion temperature but also on the way of ash collection.
On-the-Job Training and Human Resource Management: How to Improve Competitive Advantage of an Organization?
Authors: Ognjenović Kosovka 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Background: In this paper, the effects of four groups of factors on organizational performance are examined. Those are human resource management (HRM) policies and practices, financial and business indicators, location, and firm characteristics. A review of selected literature confirmed that a similar set of factors, through its positive effects on boosting organizational performance, may significantly improve competitive advantage of firms.

Methods: An empirical analysis using firm-level data is conducted on the sample of enterprises operating in Serbia. A microeconometric approach is employed in order to specify and estimate empirical models. Two statistical models are applied. The ordered probit model is used for investigating organizational performance and the standard binary probit model for examining the decision of a firm to integrate the human resource development (HRD) department into its organizational structure. The goodness of fit measures confirmed the statistical reliability of estimated models.

Results: Estimation results revealed that optimization of the number of employees, sales and revenues, firm age, increased market demand and competitive environment, as well as the ‘right decisions’ of the top management have significantly positive effects on boosting organizational performance. Significance of on-the-job training for boosting organizational performance was not empirically supported. In the same group of factors are firm size, industry and region. An auxiliary model shown that large- and medium-sized firms, firms with high level of revenues, privately owned, foreign and those located in or near to the capital city are more likely to have HRD departments.

Conclusions: This paper provides a survey of the theoretical literature and explains empirical findings that are relevant for understanding to what extent on-the-job training, managing human resource, as well as some other internal and external organizational and financial factors are important for enhancing competitive advantage of firms.
With Nature and the Outdoors as a Resource:A Case of a One-Footed Elderly Man in a Wheelchair
Authors: Terese Linn 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The older population is a greatly increasing group, and municipalities meet more and more demands regarding the health of elderly people. Ageing results in a loss of mobility and reduced independence, but there are different measures and practices possible that may contribute to maintain independence. By being active, elderly people can prevent disease, reduce disability, and increase wellness. Among these measures, research has discovered that older adults can benefit from contact with nature. This case study presents an old man in a wheelchair and his way of living an independent life despite being physically disabled. Harald is 88 years old and lives in the suburb of Ålesund, a town in Norway. Eight years ago, he had his left leg amputated due to cancer and experienced a long and tough recovery process. Harald‟s way back to restoring his mobility was highly enhanced by the outdoors and natural surroundings, which helped him to restore his independence. His experience, together with other theoretical findings, calls to our attention that nature is a resource on both the mental and the physical level. People who have access to nearby natural settings are healthier overall than other people. Natural surroundings lead one away from daily life and help one to forget about stress and worry. Natural surroundings make one more relaxed and offer a lot of time to reflect on life.
Reactivity of nano zero-valent iron in permeable reactive barriers
Authors: Pawluk Katarzyna , Fronczyk Joanna , Garbulewski Kazimierz 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
In this paper, the ability of nZVI to remove heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) from multicomponent aqueous solutions was investigated through batch experiments. The experimental data were fitted to a second-order kinetic model based on solid capacity. The data for copper and lead fitted well into the second-order kinetic model, thus suggesting that the adsorption had a physical character. The values of the removal ratio and the second-order rate constant indicated that the order of adsorption priority of nZVI was as follows: Pb>Cu>Zn>Cd>Ni. The adsorption isotherm data were described by the most conventional models (Henry, Freundlich, and Langmuir). Equilibrium tests showed that copper and zinc were removed from the solution by adsorption processes, i.e., complexation and competitive adsorption. The test results suggested that the removal processes using nZVI are more kinetic than equilibrium. The study demonstrated that nZVI is favorable reactive material; however, comprehensive investigation should be performed for further in situ applications in PRB technology.
Hydrogen evolution reaction at Ru-modified nickel-coated carbon fibre in 0.1 M NaOH
Authors: Pierożyński Bogusław , Mikołajczyk Tomasz 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The electrochemical activity towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was studied on commercially available (Toho-Tenax) and Ru-modified nickel-coated carbon fibre (NiCCF) materials. Quality and extent of Ru electrodeposition on NiCCF tows were examined by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Kinetics of the hydrogen evolution reaction were investigated at room temperature, as well as over the temperature range: 20-50°C in 0.1 M NaOH solution for the cathodic overpotential range: -100 to -300 mV vs. RHE. Corresponding values of charge-transfer resistance, exchange current-density for the HER and other electrochemical parameters for the examined fibre tow composites were recorded.
Evaluation of Patients' Satisfaction and Quality of Life in Selected Healthcare Institutions in Southern-Eastern Poland
Authors: Domańska-Glonek Ewa , Załuska Karolina , Oberc Monika , Lewicka Ewa , Torres Kamil , Torres Anna , Maciejewski Ryszard 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Introduction. In recent times, patient outcome measurement has developed from being narrowly focussed upon levels of symptomatology and service use, to being a broader assessment of the impact of illness and treatment on the individual. Thus, it can be said that quality of life has become as significant as life expectance. This has brought about a transition in the assessment of treatment. Quality of life (QOL) is a multidimensional concept that usually includes subjective evaluations of both positive and negative aspects of life as it is being led. With regard to healthcare, a cross-sectional comparison of palliative care needs is crucial in understanding differences in the patients' quality of life. Hence, an analysis of programme implementation within different types of healthcare institutions is significant in evaluating current medical care standards. Our study analyzed the satisfaction level and quality of life of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and after myocardial infarction (MI). Different types of healthcare institutions were evaluated.

Aim. To evaluate patients' satisfaction and quality of life in selected healthcare institutions in southern-eastern Poland.

Material and methods. The quality of life of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) was analyzed through the medical documentation obtained from different types of healthcare institutions. Among these are the pulmonary outpatient department in Moczary, as well as a GP Practice and a Nursing Home in this location. The quality of life of patients after myocardial infraction was analyzed through a survey study conducted at “Polonia” hospital spa in Rymanów Zdrój (the cardiology department).

Results and conclusions. The post-myocardial infarction incident patients had began to care more about their health condition and the quality of life they led. Moreover, their satisfaction level from received treatment and medical care indicated that the cardiological services implemented in southern-eastern Poland has proceeded in a good direction. Of note, these patients were systematically under specialist control. In contrast, among patients with COPD, only those under everyday care in the Nursing Home in Moczary received a similar systematic treatment, thus, COPD patients in Moczary lead a poor quality of life. This indicates a need to re-evaluate the current programmes and services provided by health care institutions in this region.
Vaccinations of Children Against Chickenpox and Pneumococcal Infection on the Example of Several Family Practice Physicians' Settings
Authors: Bednarek Anna , Mianowana Violetta 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Introduction. Vaccinations against varicella and pneumococcal infection are an important form of prevention of infectious diseases and their possible complications.

Aim. Assessment of the vaccination control of children against varicella, and pneumococcal infection based on selected institutions of family practice physician.

Material and methods. There were verified 807 immunization cards of children from three vaccination offices, selected at random from the area of the southeastern Poland, i.e. the provinces of Lubelskie, Podkarpackie and Świêtokrzyskie. Based on the results of quantitative analysis of medical records of vaccination carried out in these institutions through 2007-2012, the number of children vaccinated against varicella, and pneumococcal infection was assessed.

Results. The largest number of vaccinated children (against pneumococcal infection - 148 children and 84 against varicella among 335 subjects reporting in the facility) was confirmed in health care unit in Lublin. In health care unit in Podkarpackie the number of vaccinated children against pneumococcal infection was 84 and against chicken pox - 52 among 256 children using the medical services. In health care unit in Świêtokrzyskie, 65 children were vaccinated against pneumococcal infection and 34 against varicella among 216 subjects reporting at the institution. The vast majority of these vaccines (431 - including three centers) was paid by parents.

Conclusions. 1. In all of the centers, a higher proportion of children was vaccinated against pneumococcal infection than chickenpox. 2. There was not a marked increase in the number of children vaccinated against varicella and pneumococcal infection during the analyzed period.
Iatrogenic Bile Duct Injury. A Significant Surgical Problem. Assessment of Treatment Outcomes in the Department's Own Material
Authors: Bobkiewicz Adam , Krokowicz łukasz , Banasiewicz Tomasz , Kościński Tomasz , Borejsza-Wysocki Maciej , Ledwosiński Witold , Drews Michał 
Published: May 2015

AbstractIatrogenic bile duct injuries (BDI) are still a challenging diagnostic and therapeutic problem. With the introduction of the laparoscopic technique for the treatment of cholecystolithiasis, the incidence of iatrogenic BDI increased.was a retrospective analysis of 69 patients treated at the department due to iatrogenic BDI in the years 2004-2014.. In this paper, we presented the results of a retrospective analysis of 69 patients treated at the Department due to iatrogenic BDI in the years 2004-2014. The data were analysed in terms of age, sex, type of biliary injury, clinical symptoms, the type of repair surgery, the time between the primary surgery and the BDI management, postoperative complications and duration of hospital stay.. 82.6% of BDI occurred during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 8.7% occurred during open cholecystectomy, whereas 6 cases of BDI resulted from surgeries conducted for other indications. In order to assess the degree of BDI, Bismuth and Neuhaus classifications were used (for open and laparoscopic cholecystectomy respectively). 84.1% of patients with confirmed BDI, were transferred to the Department from other hospitals. The average time between the primary surgery and reoperation was 6.2 days (SD 4). The most common clinical symptom was biliary fistula observed in 78.3% of patients. In 28 patients, unsuccessful attempts to manage BDI were made prior to the admission to the Department in other centres. The repair procedure was mainly conducted by laparotomy (82.6%) and by the endoscopic approach (15.9%). Hepaticojejunostomy was the most common type of reconstruction following BDI (34.7%).. The increase in the rate of iatrogenic bile duct injury remains a challenging surgical problem. The management of BDI should be multidisciplinary treatment. Referring patients with both suspected and confirmed iatrogenic BDI to tertiary centres allows more effective treatment to be implemented.
Foreign Body in the Gastrointestinal Tract Leading to Small Bowel Obstruction - Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wnęk Bartosz , łożyńska-Nelke Aleksandra , Karoń Jacek 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe presence of a foreign body in the gastrointestinal tract constitutes a common pathology, considering surgical clinical practice. The management of the ingestion of a foreign body depends on many factors. The study presented a case of a 33-year-old female patient subjected to surgical treatment, due to deliberate swallowing of a balloon. The above-mentioned was the amateur equivalent of intragastric balloon insertion, inducing weight loss. This is a rare cause of a foreign body ingestion, seldomly found in literature data. The patient reported to the Emergency Department on the second day after ingestion with symptoms of mechanical subobstruction, and after initial diagnostics, was qualified for surgery. The postoperative period proved uneventful. The study illustrated the often unfavourable access to false data on the internet, which may stimulate towards the above-mentioned behaviour.
The Relationship Between Biomechanical Indicators of the Snatch Technique and Female Weightlifters' Levels
Authors: Szyszka Paulina , Mastalerz Andrzej 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Introduction
. The snatch technique is a discipline in Olympic weightlifting. The lifter has to raise the barbell from the platform directly above their head in one movement. While reviewing the literature on biomechanical analysis of the techniques of weightlifting, one can find positions on the analysis of parameters, such as barbell track, horizontal displacement, and angular positions of the joints in the individual phases of the lifter's movement. Many texts concern female and male lifters taking part in World or European Championships. The parameters of the best competitors are outlined - mostly those who finish in the top five places in competition. Mostly these are parameters regarding male lifters, and less frequently those of female lifters. In the literature review, an overlooked aspect is that of the definition of the diversity of indicators as regards the snatch technique practiced by female lifters depending on score.
Material and methods
. In the research, registered snatch attempts during the World Championship were used. Videos were used by judges to establish a maximum weight limit for female lifters. The attempts were registered by two cameras and were later digitally processed by the APAS 2000 system. Barbell parameters, maximum speed, average of the bar, and the parameters of the lifter-bar collocation (horizontal displacement of barbell weights and height elevation) were assessed.
Results
. The analysed attempts show the margin of error for measurement of the average speed of the barbell as 0.03 m/s. The difference in maximum speed of analysed attempts is 15%. The height of clearance of the first-placed female lifter's barbell was 12.7 cm, 30 cm for the last-placed.
Conclusions
. The sporting level of weightlifting by female lifters influences the analysed biomechanical indicators of the snatch. Those indicators, which are similar in the case of both the World Championship winner and the female lifter who came last, may be described as the average speeds of the barbell. The high sporting level of female lifters performing heavy lifting is characterized by the clearance of the barbell.
Nordic Walking Training and Physical Fitness in Elderly Women
Authors: Ossowski Zbigniew , Prusik Katarzyna , Prusik Krzysztof , Kortas Jakub , Wiech Monika , Bielawa łukasz 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Introduction
. Together with longer human lives, increase in economy level and higher social expectations, there is also need for developing science studies on physical culture and its role in prevention of ageing. Taking care of physical fitness is one of the main factor that guarantees both health and high quality life for millions of older people. The purpose of this article was to determine the changes of physical fitness level under the influence of Nordic walking trainingin women aged 60-75 years.
Material and methods
. 65 women aged 60-75 years were the subject of this study. Women were divided into 2 groups: control group (26 people) and experimental group (39 people). Women from experimental group were taking part in Nordic walking training for 15 weeks, 2 times a week, 60 minutes each meeting. To determine the level of physical fitness some trials from EUROFIT test for adults were applied and march test 2 km was held.
Results
. The trend of improvement of physical fitness under health education and Nordic walking training was determined. The best results was on endurance field (statistically significant p<0.05). It was also observed slight decrease in physical fitness in women that didn't take part in mentioned training.
Semen characteristics and selected biochemical markers of canine seminal plasma in various seasons of the year
Authors: Strzeżek R. , Szemplińska K. , Filipowicz K. , Kordan W. 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of season on selected qualitative semen characteristics and biochemical markers of canine seminal plasma. Whole ejaculates were collected from 5 crossbred dogs aged 2-8 years. The study covered a period of one year divided into four seasons: spring (March, April, May), summer (June, July, August), autumn (September, October, November) and winter (December, January, February). Semen samples were subjected to macroscopic and microscopic analyses to determine semen volume, total sperm counts and sperm morphology parameters. The study also involved the determination of sperm motility parameters (CASA system), sperm plasma membrane integrity (SPMI, fluorescent staining SYBR-14/PI), sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, fluorescent staining JC-1/PI) and the ATP content of sperm cells. Total protein content (TPC) and the activity of alkaline phosphatase (AP) and acid phosphatase (AcP) were determined in biochemical analyses of seminal plasma. No significant differences in ejaculate volume, SMPI or ATP content of sperm cells were observed between seasons. The highest total sperm counts were reported in ejaculates acquired in summer and autumn. The lowest MMP values were determined in summer ejaculates. No significant differences in sperm motility (MOT) were observed throughout the experiment, but ejaculates collected in autumn and winter were characterized by the highest progressive motility (PMOT). AP activity and TPC were not significantly affected by season. However, AcP activity levels were significantly lower in autumn than in the remaining seasons. Seasonal variations in the analyzed macroscopic and microscopic parameters of ejaculates and biochemical markers of seminal plasma did not exert a clear negative effect on the quality of canine semen.
MicroRNA expression profiles in liver and colon of sexually immature gilts after exposure to Fusarium mycotoxins
Authors: Brzuzan P. , Woźny M. , Wolińska-Nizioł L. , Piasecka A. , Florczyk M. , Jakimiuk E. , Góra M. , Łuczyński M.K. , Gajęcki M. 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
To improve our knowledge of the role of microRNAs (miRs) in responses of the porcine digestive system to two Fusarium mycotoxins, zearalenone (ZEN) and deoxynivalenol (DON), we examined the expression of 7 miRs (miR-9, miR-15a, miR-21, miR-34a, miR-122, miR-125b, and miR-192), previously found to be deregulated in diseased liver and colon cells. In this study, immature gilts were exposed to NOEL doses of ZEN (40 μg/kg/d), DON (12 μg/kg/d), ZEN+DON (40+12 μg/kg/d), and placebo (negative control group) for 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 days. Before the treatment, expression levels of the selected miRs were measured in the liver, the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ascending and the descending colon of the gilts. Hierarchical clustering of the tissues by their miR expression profiles was consistent with what would be expected based on the anatomical locations and the physiological functions of the organs, suggesting that functions of the miRs are related to the specificities of the tissues in which they are expressed. A subset of 2 pairs of miRs (miR-21+miR-192 and miR-15a+miR-34a), which were assigned to two distinct clusters based on their tissue abundance, was then evaluated in the liver and the ascending and the descending colon during the treatment. The most meaningful results were obtained from the ascending colon, where a significant effect of the treatment was observed, suggesting that during the exposure to mycotoxins, the pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival were disordered. Changes in miR expression in the liver and the descending colon of the treated gilts were smaller, and were associated more with treatment duration than the exposure to ZEN, DON, or ZEN+DON. Further research should focus on identification of genes whose expression is regulated by these aberrantly expressed miRs. This should facilitate understanding of the miRNA-regulated biological effects of mycotoxins.
Detection of rabies antibodies in dog sera
Authors: Ondrejková A. , Süli J. , Ondrejka R. , Slepecká E. , Prokeš M. , Čechvala P. , Supuka P. 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
In the presented work, we compared the results of determination of rabies antibodies using three in vitro methods: rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test (RFFIT), fluorescent antibody virus neutralisation test (FAVNT) and the immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA). 196 dog sera samples were examined with FAVNT, RFFIT methods and the ELISA test. Sera with low and sufficiently high titre of antibodies had a similar result in determining by all methods. A critical level of rabies antibodies close to the required protection level (0.5 IU/cm3) was seen in sera of 18 dogs (9.18%); these were the sera obtained after primary vaccination of dogs. At this level, even small differences can cause a change in the assessment of the patient's serum seronegativity or seropositivity. Therefore, it is important to choose the appropriate method that has sufficiently strict criteria while having a good reproducibility.