bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Dividend Policy of Real Estate Development Companies Listed on the WSE in Poland
Authors: Gostkowska-Drezewicka Magdalena
Published: February 2017

The aim of the article is to analyze and identify the dividend policy adopted by real estate development companies listed on the WSE. The first regular dividend paid by these entities was in 2007. Only 12% of real estate companies listed on the WSE regularly paid dividends. 48% of the surveyed companies declared that their priority is development and recommended - due to the significant investment needs, and to provide liquidity - leaving their profits in the company. In 40% of the development companies, decisions regarding the distribution of profits bear the markings of residual dividend policy. The economic situation in the construction industry, observed in 2007-2013, was an important factor influencing the financial situation of these companies resulting in dividend policy decisions. Most realtor companies have taken the decision to pay dividends in the years 2008 and 2011. This means that the situation in the previous year was an important factor influencing the decisions regarding the distribution of real estate development company profit.
Financialisation as a Result of the Network Economy’s Development
Authors: Cichorska Joanna , Klimontowicz Monika
Published: February 2017

In the last thirty years, the world's economies have changed significantly. New technology deve­lopments have enabled the transition from the industrial economy to the network economy. The network economy is based on information technology, connectivity and human knowledge. Its development has caused changes in the way of life, consumer behaviour on the markets and compa­nies’ business models, especially the process of goods and services creation and distribution. Elec­tronic commerce and services have become one of the fastest developing fields of the economy. As a result, the role of government has diminished while the role of markets has increased economic transactions between countries and their citizens have substantially risen, and financial transactions have grown remarkably. This changing landscape has been characterised by globalization and financialisation.

The increasing role of financial motives, financial markets, and financial institutions have influenced domestic and international transactions. A new category of finance called e-finance has been created and implemented. Despite the advantages of electronic finance networks, concurrently there are some disadvantages of their diffusion. The purpose of the paper is to present both aspects of financialisation and its influence on the financial and banking system. This purpose determines the structure of the paper. As financialisation is a relatively new term the first section of the paper focu­ses on defining its phenomenon. This part presents different authors’ perspectives and definitions. Next, the influence of financialisation on the Polish financial system’s quantitative and qualitative structure is discussed. The last section focuses on the current role and functions of banks in the finance system network structure as a result of a rapidly changing technological environment.
Financialization of The Economy and the Need for Personal Finance Advisory Services
Authors: Waliszewski Krzysztof
Published: February 2017

Financialization of households is a result of the growing role of financial systems and instruments in the economy. The increased role of financial phenomena in financial and non-financial decisions taken by households is not proportional to capabilities of their perception and understanding by households which possess basic knowledge in finance. The missing link between institutions and financial markets offering more complex financial solutions and the consumer may be a financial advisor who can perform many important roles with respect to households. The aim of this article is to present financialization of the economy and households and the role that can be played by financial advisors in decreasing the imbalance of information between the consumer and financial institutions, as well as the lack of symmetry in understanding financial information by the consumer.
Cross-Sectional Returns with Volatility Regimes from a Diverse Portfolio of Emerging and Developed Equity Indices
Authors: Sakowski Paweł , Ślepaczuk Robert , Wywiał Mateusz
Published: February 2017

This article aims to extend evaluation of the classic multifactor model of Carhart (1997) for the case of global equity indices and to expand analysis performed in Sakowski et. al. (2015). Our intention is to test several modifications of these models to take into account different dynamics of equity excess returns between emerging and developed equity indices. Proposed extensions include a volatility regime switching mechanism (using dummy variables and the Markov approach) and the fifth risk factor based on realized volatility of index returns.

Moreover, instead of using data for stocks of a particular market (which is a common approach in the literature), we check performance of these models for weekly data of 81 world investable equity indices in the period of 2000-2015. Such an approach is proposed to estimate an equity risk premium for a single country.

Empirical evidence reveals important differences between results for classical models estimated on single stocks (either in international or US-only frameworks) and models evaluated for equity in­dices. Additionally, we observe substantial discrepancies between results for developed countries and emerging markets. Finally, using weekly data for the last 15 years we illustrate the importance of model risk and data overfitting effects when drawing conclusions upon results of multifactor models.
Financial Sector Transformation and Income Inequality-An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Szymborska Hanna K.
Published: February 2017

This paper examines the relationship between financial sector transformation and income inequality. We construct an econometric model of income concentration for a panel of 16 OECD countries in the years 1995-2009. From our study, financial sector transformation, measured individually by three indicators (GDP share of stock market value traded, bank income and private credit), emerges as a nexus of complex and interconnected phenomena, which are strongly associated with the concentration of income at the top of the distribution.
Crowdfunding as a Mechanism for Financing Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Cichy Janusz , Gradoń Witold
Published: February 2017

The implementation of an innovative idea by small and medium-sized enterprises often is difficult because of the difficulty in finding a source of financing. The modern level of development of communication technology, exchange of information, the possibility of combining these potentials and using synergistic initiatives provides an opportunity to overcome this barrier. Dynamically growing crowdfunding is an opportunity for implemented projects. This study presents a definition of crowdfunding, its types as well as advantages and disadvantages from lender and loaner of capital points of view. It also shows the dynamics of crowdfunding market growth in Europe and the legal basics. The aim of the article is to describe the characteristics of crowdfunding, attempt of identification of the key factors determining its allocative efficiency, and to present their impact on its further development.
Variability of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) cones – variability of cone parameters
Authors: Aniszewska Monika , Błuszkowska Urszula
Published: February 2017

This study aimed at determining the shape of closed silver fir cones from the Jawor Forest District (Wroclaw), based purely on measurements of their length and thickness. Using these two parameters, the most accurate estimations were achieved with a fourth-degree polynomial fitting function. We then calculated the cones’ surface area and volume in three different ways: 1) Using the fourth-degree polynomial shape estimation, 2) Introducing indicators of compliance (k1, k2, k3) to calculate the volume and then comparing it to its actual value as measured in a pitcher filled with water, 3) Comparing the surface area of the cones as calculated with the polynomial function to the value obtained from ratios of indicators of compliance (ratios k4 and k5). We found that the calculated surface area and volume were substantially higher than the corresponding measured values. Test values of cone volume and surface area as calculated by our model were 8% and 5% lower, respectively, compared to direct measurements. We also determined the fir cones apparent density to be 0.8 g·cm-3on average. The gathered data on cone surface area, volume and bulk density is a valuable tool for optimizing the thermal peeling process in mill cabinets to acquire high quality seeds.
Breeding avifauna of mature forest stands in the Borki Forest and its dynamics at the turn of the 21stcentury
Authors: Rąkowski Grzegorz , Czarnocki Krzysztof , Ukalska Joanna
Published: February 2017

The composition and structure of the breeding bird community in the Borki Forest in north-eastern Poland were investigated during two separate periods: 1994–1996 and 2012–2014. Bird censuses were carried out in three plots located in mature oak-hornbeam, ash-alder and mixed coniferous forest stands. A standard combined mapping technique for estimating the number of breeding birds was applied. A total of 74 bird species bred at least once within any plot during 1994–1996 or 2012–2014. The structure of the bird assemblages on particular plots displayed a high degree of similarity, exceeding 75%, which means that they represent essentially the same bird community. However, the investigated assemblages have changed substantially over the 20 years. Both, the number of breeding bird species and the population densities on all plots, were much higher in 2012–2014 than in 1994–1996. The mean number of breeding species on all plots was over 50% higher in 2012–2014 than in 1994–1996, whereas the mean total density of breeding pairs increased by more than 60%. Total population densities on the plots increased as a result of an increase in population densities of individual bird species combined with an increase in the number of breeding species. Due to different rates of population growth for certain species, also the composition of dominating species group have changed. The observed changes in the avifauna of the Borki Forest were most probably due to an enrichment of the forest habitats structure, which was caused by natural factors, such as ageing of forest stands, forest succession and a change in water regime by beaver dams, as well as by forest management, including group felling within or in the vicinity of plots and uncovering of the forest edge.
Computation of minimal homogeneous generating sets and minimal standard bases for ideals of free algebras
Authors: Li Huishi
Published: February 2017

Let

K
⁢

〈
X
〉

=

K
⁢

〈

X
1

,
…
,

X
n

〉

{K\langle X\rangle=K\langle X_{1},\ldots,X_{n}\rangle}

be the free algebra generated by

X
=

{

X
1

,
…
,

X
n

}

{X=\{X_{1},\ldots,X_{n}\}}

over a
field K. It is shown that, with respect to any weighted

ℕ

{\mathbb{N}}

-gradation attached to

K
⁢

〈
X
〉

{K\langle X\rangle}

, minimal homogeneous
generating sets for finitely generated graded two-sided ideals of

K
⁢

〈
X
〉

{K\langle X\rangle}

can be algorithmically computed, and that if an ungraded
two-sided ideal I of

K
⁢

〈
X
〉

{K\langle X\rangle}

has a finite Gröbner basis

𝒢

{{\mathcal{G}}}

with
respect to a graded monomial ordering on

K
⁢

〈
X
〉

{K\langle X\rangle}

, then a minimal
standard basis for I can be computed via computing a minimal
homogeneous generating set of the associated graded ideal

〈

𝐋𝐇
⁢

(
I
)

〉

{\langle\mathbf{LH}(I)\rangle}

.
Chemical and Pyrolytic Thermogravimetric Characterization of Nigerian Bituminous Coals
Authors: Nyakuma Bemgba Bevan , Jauro Aliyu
Published: February 2017

The discovery of new coal deposits in Nigeria presents solutions for nation’s energy crises and prospects for socioeconomic growth and sustainable development. Furthermore, the quest for sustainable energy to limit global warming, climate change, and environmental degradation has necessitated the exploration of alternatives using cleaner technologies such as coal pyrolysis. However, a lack of comprehensive data on physico-chemical and thermal properties of Nigerian coals has greatly limited their utilization. Therefore, the physico-chemical properties, rank (classification), and thermal decomposition profiles of two Nigerian bituminous coals – Afuze (AFZ) and Shankodi-Jangwa (SKJ) – were examined in this study. The results indicate that the coals contain high proportions of C, H, N, S, O and a sufficiently high heating value (HHV) for energy conversion. The coal classification revealed that the Afuze (AFZ) coal possesses a higher rank, maturity, and coal properties compared to the Shankodi-Jangwa (SKJ) coal. A thermal analysis demonstrated that coal pyrolysis in both cases occurred in three stages; drying (30-200 °C), devolatilization (200-600 °C), and char decomposition (600-1000 °C). The results also indicated that pyrolysis at 1000 °C is not sufficient for complete pyrolysis. In general, the thermochemical and pyrolytic fuel properties indicate that the coal from both places can potentially be utilized for future clean energy applications.
Expression, purification and characterization of human cytosolic sulfotransferase (SULT) 1C4
Authors: Guidry Amber L. , Tibbs Zachary E. , Runge-Morris Melissa , Falany Charles N.
Published: February 2017

Human cytosolic sulfotransferase 1C4 (hSULT1C4) is a dimeric Phase II drug-metabolizing enzyme primarily expressed in the developing fetus. SULTs facilitate the transfer of a hydrophilic sulfonate moiety from 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS) onto an acceptor substrate altering the substrate’s biological activity and increasing the compound’s water solubility. While several of the hSULTs’ endogenous and xenobiotic substrates have been identified, the physiological function of hSULT1C4 remains unknown. The fetal expression of hSULT1C4 leads to the hypothesis that the function of this enzyme may be to regulate metabolic and hormonal signaling molecules, such as estrogenic compounds, that may be generated or consumed by the mother during fetal development. Human SULT1C4 has previously been shown to sulfonate estrogenic compounds, such as catechol estrogens; therefore, this study focused on the expression and purification of hSULT1C4 in order to further characterize this enzyme’s sulfonation of estrogenic compounds. Molecular modeling of the enzyme’s native properties helped to establish a novel purification protocol for hSULT1C4. The optimal activity assay conditions for hSULT1C4 were determined to be pH 7.4 at 37°C for up to 10 min. Kinetic analysis revealed the enzyme’s reduced affinity for PAPS compared to PAP. Human SULT1C4 sulfonated all the estrogenic compounds tested, including dietary flavonoids and environmental estrogens; however, the enzyme has a higher affinity for sulfonation of flavonoids. These results suggest hSULT1C4 could be metabolizing and regulating hormone signaling pathways during human fetal development.
Ukraine 2014 – the End of the Second European Belle Époque
Authors: Żurawski vel Grajewski Przemysław
Published: February 2017

This article is devoted to the roots of the developments that have taken place in Ukraine since Autumn 2013 and up to the Russian invasion. It stresses the historical differences between Ukraine and Russia, presents the international milieu of Ukrainian independence in the years 1991–2013, and ends with a description of the nature of the Maidan revolution and the pan-European challenge created by the Russian aggression against Ukraine. The main thesis is that the struggle for Ukraine ends the post-Cold War epoch marked with an illusion of eternal peace in Europe and with the groundless hope for Russian imperialism to expire.
“Canada will not stand idly by ...”: Ukraine in the Foreign Policy of Canada
Authors: Marczuk-Karbownik Magdalena
Published: February 2017

Ukraine has always had a special place in Canadian foreign policy. Currently, Canada is deeply engaged in supporting Ukraine to restore political and economic stability and to implement democratic reforms. The Government in Ottawa has condemned Russian aggressive policy and the illegal military occupation of Crimea and has taken a variety of steps and initiatives since the beginning of the crisis in Ukraine in 2014 including imposing sanctions, economic and military assistance, and supporting of NATO measures.
Polish and German press reports on cooperation between the foreign ministers of both countries in resolving the conflict in Ukraine (February-June 2014)
Authors: Patecka-Frauenfelder Anna
Published: February 2017

Polish-German relations in the first half of 2014 were dominated by the Ukraine crisis. This study is an attempt to answer the question of how Polish and German press assessed the cooperation of both countries in resolving the conflict in Ukraine; to what extent the most widely read magazines associated themselves with the decisions of their politicians and the feelings of their own societies and how much understanding they showed for the arguments of their EU partner. The analysis focuses on the unprecedented mission of the Weimar Triangle foreign ministers to Ukraine in February 2014, which led to an agreement between the Ukrainian opposition and President Viktor Yanukovych. A turning point was the visit paid by Radoslaw Sikorski and Frank-Walter Steinmeier to St. Petersburg in June 2014. The next meetings agreed on by EU partners were held without inviting the Polish partner. In view of the speed of events in the selected time interval, the articles subjected to analysis were taken from the most widely read online editions of national daily newspapers in Poland and Germany.
Is breast cancer surgery safely performed in patients receiving antithrombotic therapy?
Authors: Emoto Norio , Fujikawa Takahisa , Yoshimoto Yasunori , Kawamoto Hiroshi , Tanaka Akira
Published: February 2017

Aim:

The aim of the study was to assess the safety of surgery for breast cancer in patients with antithrombotic therapy (ATT), including antiplatelet therapy (APT) and anticoagulation therapy (ACT) for thromboembolic risks.

Methods:

One hundred ninety-three consecutive patients receiving breast surgery for breast cancer at our institution between 2010 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Among them, ATT was regularly used in 50 patients (25.9%). Our perioperative management included maintenance of preoperative aspirin monotherapy for APT and bridging heparin for ACT in patients at high thromboembolic risks and early postoperative reinstitution in all ATT cases. The outcome variables of patients with ATT (ATT group) were compared to those of patients without ATT (non-ATT group), and the significant risk factors for postoperative complications were determined by multivariate analysis.

Results:

This series included 127 mastectomy and 66 breast-conserving surgery. ATT group showed significantly high frequency of history of cerebral infarction and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). In the ATT group, 32 patients (16.6%) were categorized as high risk for thromboembolism, but there was neither thromboembolic event nor perioperative death in the whole cohort. Surgical blood loss and rates of intraoperative transfusion were identical between the groups. Whereas overall postoperative bleeding complication was more frequently observed in the ATT group compared to the non-ATT group (12.0% vs. 3.5%, p=0.360) in univariate analyses, multivariate analysis showed that neither ATT nor preoperative aspirin continuation affected postoperative bleeding complications.

Conclusion:

Even in patients undergoing ATT, surgery for breast cancer is safely performed without any increase in blood loss or postoperative bleeding, and no thromboembolism was experienced in the series. Our perioperative management of ATT patients is valid during breast surgery, although this patient population is still challenging and should be rigorously managed.
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis - A Case Report
Authors: Stătescu Laura , Constantin Magda , Morariu Horia Silviu , Solovăstru Laura Gheucă
Published: February 2017

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is an acute, life-threatening muco-cutaneous disease, often induced by drugs. It is characterized by muco-cutaneous erythematous and purpuric lesions, flaccid blisters which erupt, causing large areas of denudation. The condition can involve the genitourinary, pulmonary and, gastrointestinal systems. Because of the associated high mortality rate early diagnosis and treatment are mandatory.

This article presents the case of a sixty-six years old male patient, known to have cirrhosis, chronic kidney failure, and diabetes mellitus. His current treatment included haemodialysis. He was hospitalized as an emergency to the Dermatology Department for erythemato-violaceous, purpuric patches and papules, with acral disposition, associated with rapidly spreading erosions of the oral, nasal and genital mucosa and the emergence of flaccid blisters which erupted quickly leaving large areas of denudation. Based on the clinical examination and laboratory investigations the patient was diagnosed with TEN, secondary to carbamazepine intake for encephalopathic phenomena. The continuous alteration in both kidney and liver function and electrolyte imbalance, required him to be transferred to the intensive care unit. Following pulse therapy with systemic corticosteroids, hydro-electrolytic re-equilibration, topical corticosteroid and antibiotics, there was a favourable resolution of TEN.

The case is of interest due to possible life-threatening cutaneous complications, including sepsis and significant fluid loss, in a patient with associated severe systemic pathology, highlighting the importance of early recognition of TEN, and the role of a multidisciplinary team in providing suitable treatment.
Pulse Oximetry During the First 24 Hours as a Screening Tool For Congenital Heart Defects
Authors: Patriciu Mihaela , Avasiloaiei Andreea , Moscalu Mihaela , Stamatin Maria
Published: February 2017

Introduction: Although screening for congenital heart defects (CHD) relies mainly on antenatal ultrasonography and clinical examination after birth, life-threatening cardiac malformations are often not diagnosed before the patient is discharged.

Aim: To assess the use of routine pulse oximetry in the delivery room and at 24 hours postpartum, and to study its feasibility as a screening test for CHD.

Material and Methods: In this prospective study, all infants born in “Cuza Voda” Maternity Hospital, Iasi, Romania, were enrolled over a thirteen-month period. Preductal oximetry was assessed during the first hour, and postductal oximetry was evaluated at twenty-four hours postpartum. Data were then analyzed to establish the sensitivity and specificity of pulse oximetry, as a screening test for CHD.

Results: 5406 infants were included in the study, with a mean gestational age of 38.2 weeks and a mean birth weight of 3175 grams. During the first minute, blood oxygen saturation varied between 40% and 90% and at 24 hours of life, it ranged between 90% and 100%. Following oximetry assessment, 14 infants with critical CHD were identified. Blood oxygen saturation values in infants with CHD were lower throughout the entire period of evaluation. Pulse oximetry had good sensitivity and specificity at 1 hour (Se=87.5%, Sp=95.5%) and 24 hours (Se=92.5%, Sp=97.4%) for the diagnosis of CHD. Blood oxygen saturation values at one minute, 1 hour and 24 hours are strong discriminative parameters for the early diagnosis of CHD.

Conclusion: Routine pulse oximetry during the first 24 hours postpartum represents an early indicator of CHD to facilitate timely intervention. Pulse oximetry provides excellent sensitivity and specificity and has tremendous potential as a standard screening test for CHD during the first 24 hours of life.
Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin as a Marker for Renal Dysfunction Detection in Critically Ill Patients with Increased Intraabdominal Pressure
Authors: Puiac Claudiu , Szederjesi Janos , Lazăr Alexandra , Bad Codruța , Pușcașiu Lucian
Published: February 2017

Introduction: Elevated intraabdominal pressure (IAP) it is known to have an impact on renal function trough the pressure transmitted from the abdominal cavity to the vasculature responsible for the renal blood flow. Intraabdominal pressure is found to be frequent in intensive care patients and also to be a predictor of mortality. Intra-abdominal high pressure is an entity that can have serious impact on intensive care admitted patients, studies concluding that if this condition progresses to abdominal compartment syndrome mortality is as high as 80%.

Aim: The aim of this study was to observe if a link between increased intraabdominal pressure and modification in renal function exists (NGAL, creatinine clearance).

Material and Method: The study enrolled 30 critically ill patients admitted in the Intensive Care Unit of SCJU Tîrgu Mures between November 2015 and August 2016. The study enrolled adult, hemodynamically stable patients admitted in intensive critical care - defined by a normal blood pressure maintained without any vasopressor or inotropic support, invasive monitoring using PICCO device and abdominal pressure monitoring.

Results: The patients were divided into two groups based on the intraabdominal pressure values: normal intraabdominal pressure group= 52 values and increased intraabdominal group= 35 values. We compared the groups in the light of NGAL values, 24 hours diuresis, GFR and creatinine clearance. The groups are significantly different when compared in the light of NGAL values and GFR values. We obtained a statistically significant correlation between NGAL value and 24 hour diuresis. No other significant correlations were encountered between the studied items.

Conclusions: NGAL values are increased in patients with high intraabdominal pressure which may suggest its utility as a cut off marker for patients with increased intraabdominal pressure. There is a significant decreased GFR in patient with elevated intraabdominal pressure, observation which can help in early detection of renal injury in patients due to high intraabdominal pressure. No correlation was found between creatinine clearance and increased intraabdominal pressure.
Toxic Megacolon – A Three Case Presentation
Authors: Dumitru Irina Magdalena , Dumitru Eugen , Rugina Sorin , Tuta Liliana Ana
Published: February 2017

Introduction: Toxic megacolon is a life-threatening disease and is one of the most serious complications of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), usually needing prompt surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and adequate medical treatment are mandatory.

Cases presentation: In the last two years, three Caucasian female patients have been diagnosed with toxic megacolon and treated in the Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital, Constanta. All patients had been hospitalized for non-related conditions. The first patient was in chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the second patient had undergone surgery for colon cancer, and the third patient had surgery for disc herniation. In all cases the toxin test (A+B) was positive and ribotype 027 was present. Abdominal CT examination, both native and after intravenous contrast, showed significant colon dilation, with marked thickening of the wall. Resolution of the condition did not occur using the standard treatment of metronidazole and oral vancomycin, therefore the therapy was altered in two cases using intracolonic administration of vancomycin and intravenous tigecycline.

Conclusions: In these three cases of CDI, the risk factors for severe evolution were: concurrent malignancy, renal failure, obesity, and immune deficiencies. Ribotype 027, a marker for a virulent strain of CD, was found in all three cases complicated by toxic megacolon. The intracolonic administration of vancomycin, and intravenous tigecycline was successful when prior standard therapy had failed, and surgery was avoided.
Patent Citations Analysis and Its Value in Research Evaluation: A Review and a New Approach to Map Technology-relevant Research
Authors: van Raan Anthony F.J.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

First, to review the state-of-the-art in patent citation analysis, particularly characteristics of patent citations to scientific literature (scientific non-patent references, SNPRs). Second, to present a novel mapping approach to identify technology-relevant research based on the papers cited by and referring to the SNPRs.

Design/methodology/approach

In the review part we discuss the context of SNPRs such as the time lags between scientific achievements and inventions. Also patent-to-patent citation is addressed particularly because this type of patent citation analysis is a major element in the assessment of the economic value of patents. We also review the research on the role of universities and researchers in technological development, with important issues such as universities as sources of technological knowledge and inventor-author relations. We conclude the review part of this paper with an overview of recent research on mapping and network analysis of the science and technology interface and of technological progress in interaction with science. In the second part we apply new techniques for the direct visualization of the cited and citing relations of SNPRs, the mapping of the landscape around SNPRs by bibliographic coupling and co-citation analysis, and the mapping of the conceptual environment of SNPRs by keyword co-occurrence analysis.

Findings

We discuss several properties of SNPRs. Only a small minority of publications covered by the Web of Science or Scopus are cited by patents, about 3%–4%. However, for publications based on university-industry collaboration the number of SNPRs is considerably higher, around 15%. The proposed mapping methodology based on a “second order SNPR approach” enables a better assessment of the technological relevance of research.

Research limitations

The main limitation is that a more advanced merging of patent and publication data, in particular unification of author and inventor names, in still a necessity.

Practical implications

The proposed mapping methodology enables the creation of a database of technology-relevant papers (TRPs). In a bibliometric assessment the publications of research groups, research programs or institutes can be matched with the TRPs and thus the extent to which the work of groups, programs or institutes are relevant for technological development can be measured.

Originality/value

The review part examines a wide range of findings in the research of patent citation analysis. The mapping approach to identify a broad range of technology-relevant papers is novel and offers new opportunities in research evaluation practices.
Complexity in the Adoption of Technology in Tourism Services
Authors: Cázares-Garrido Ilia Violeta
Published: February 2017

The paper focuses on the analysis of the organizations in the tourism sector, in particular, the travel agencies in the state of Queretaro, México, through a modern and flexible perspective that comes from the Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) and it reviews how these agencies have expanded as organizations and what have been the effects on their processes. The investigation is based on a qualitative study that allows to realize the lack of awareness of the owners and companies’ managers on the influence of technology in their businesses. They are aware of the two main advantages that they have in order to compete with online businesses: first, the information they provide first hand to their customers and secondly, the safety it gives to their clients by purchasing at an established agency. On the other hand, they are not aware of the low financial investment (such as in the use of social networking) and the high acceptance of technology by consumers. As a result it is of extreme importance to provide training that allows the opportunity for change, which is increasingly necessary due to the overwhelming competition from online agencies.
Negotiation Differences between China and Poland
Authors: Cichosz Izabela
Published: February 2017

Interaction is a vital part of every business transaction. In creating an international agreement, communication being an important assignment can be very demanding. In business negotiation, interactions do not only evolve within the business and customers but also with the dealers and every stakeholders that is included in the business transaction. More and more transactions are cross-cultural in their nature. Cross-cultural negotiation is prone fail as the individuals involved in these transactions are ignorant on how to pact with individuals of different cultures. This paper seeks to explore differences in cross-cultural negotiation between Polish and Chinese business people.
Three cases of Gordon syndrome with dominant KLHL3 mutations
Authors: Park Ji Soo , Park Eujin , Hyun Hye Sun , Ahn Yo Han , Kang Hee Gyung , Ha Il-Soo , Cheong Hae Il
Published: February 2017

Background:

Gordon syndrome (GS) is a rare form of monogenic hypertension characterized by low renin hypertension, hyperkalemia, hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis, and normal glomerular filtration rate. To date, four genes causing GS have been identified as:

Case presentation:

We report three cases of GS in two families. All patients presented with typical clinical features of GS and had a known dominant

Conclusions:

GS should be considered in patients with low renin hypertension and hyperkalemia. Although it is a rare disease, the correct diagnosis of GS is clinically important, as it can easily be treated with a low sodium diet or thiazides. In addition, family studies can identify individuals with undiagnosed GS as all mutations causing this disease, except for some recessive
Language Worldview of Yakima Indians, Compared with English and Ukrainians
Authors: Levitsky Andrei
Published: February 2017

The problem of conceptualization the information as well as its further verbalization remains one of the topical issues of present-day linguistic research, though the languages of Native Americans (like Sahaptin – the language of the Yakima nation) still need a more detailed analysis. The present study is the first to single out the means of verbalization the information on ENVIRONMENT & TIME in two distantly related languages (English and Ukrainian) on the background of Sahaptin (the language of Yakima people).
Temporality in Manyōshū
Authors: Yamaguchi Toshiko
Published: February 2017

Using the Manyōshū corpus, the paper argues that conceptual metaphor theory imposes limitations on the diversity of linguistic facts, particularly those concerning the speaker or the poet who is communicating. The paper offers explanations of the nature of time by drawing upon the inference operating within “basic sign structure”, specifically, indexicality and iconicity, both of which are at the heart of human semiotic activity.
The phraseological meaning construal in the traditional vs. cognitive culture-oriented perspectives
Authors: Zykova Irina
Published: February 2017

As a point of departure, the paper discusses two approaches to phraseological meaning: traditional and cognitive. Following the latter as well as certain semiotic and cultural accounts of language, semantics, and idiomaticity, I seek to elaborate a cognitive culture-oriented theory of phraseological meaning. This theory is tested against the basis of a representative corpus of selected Russian phraseologisms (more than 1000 items) that describe various aspects of verbal communication, e.g., igrat’ komediyu (lit. to play comedy), zloj yazyk (lit. an evil tongue). The results obtained are supported by the cross-cultural study of Russian and English phraseological units.
A new bathymetric survey of the Suwałki Landscape Park lakes
Authors: Borowiak Dariusz , Nowiński Kamil , Grabowska Katarzyna
Published: February 2017

The results of the latest bathymetric survey of 21 lakes in the Suwałki Landscape Park (SLP) are presented here. Measurements of the underwater lake topography were carried out in the years 2012–2013 using the hydroacoustic method (sonar Lawrence 480M). In the case of four lakes (Błędne, Pogorzałek, Purwin, Wodziłki) this was the first time a bathymetric survey had been performed. Field material was used to prepare bathymetric maps, which were then used for calculating the basic size and shape parameters of the lake basins. The results of the studies are shown against the nearly 90 year history of bathymetric surveying of the SLP lakes. In the light of the current measurements, the total area of the SLP lakes is over 634 hm2 and its limnic ratio is 10%. Lake water resources in the park were estimated at 143 037.1 dam3. This value corresponds to a retention index of 2257 mm. In addition, studies have shown that the previous morphometric data are not very accurate. The relative differences in the lake surface areas ranged from –14.1 to 9.1%, and in the case of volume – from –32.2 to 35.3%. The greatest differences in the volume, expressed in absolute values, were found in the largest SLP lakes: Hańcza (1716.1 dam3), Szurpiły (1282.0 dam3), Jaczno (816.4 dam3), Perty (427.1 dam3), Jegłówek (391.2 dam3) and Kojle (286.2 dam3). The smallest disparities were observed with respect to the data obtained by the IRS (Inland Fisheries Institute in Olsztyn). The IMGW (Institute of Meteorology and Water Management) bathymetric measurements were affected by some significant errors, and morphometric parameters determined on their basis are only approximate.
An SEM image reference guide to hairs of 12 species of large African mammals
Authors: Wade Shelby , Stokes Michael , Spencer Craig
Published: February 2017

We developed a pictorial atlas of 52 scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of hairs found on 12 mammalian game species commonly found in the South African lowveld. Guard hairs were taken from the dorsoscapular, scapular, sternal, or axillary regions of each animal; and bristle hairs, if present, were collected from the manes of animals of each species. These images, along with other diagnostic features of hairs, can be used as an identification system. Such a system is useful for ecological studies where identifying animal remains is necessary.
Limit theorems for weighted and regular Multilevel estimators
Authors: Giorgi Daphné , Lemaire Vincent , Pagès Gilles
Published: February 2017

We aim at analyzing in terms of a.s. convergence and weak rate the performances of the Multilevel Monte Carlo estimator (MLMC) introduced in [7] and of its weighted version, the Multilevel Richardson–Romberg estimator (ML2R), introduced in [12].
These two estimators permit to compute a very accurate approximation of

I
0

=

𝔼
⁢

[

Y
0

]

${I_{0}=\mathbb{E}[Y_{0}]}$

by a Monte Carlo-type estimator when the (non-degenerate) random variable

Y
0

∈

L
2

⁢

(
ℙ
)

${Y_{0}\in L^{2}(\mathbb{P})}$

cannot be simulated (exactly) at a reasonable computational cost whereas a family of simulatable approximations

(

Y
h

)

h
∈
ℋ

${(Y_{h})_{h\in\operatorname{\mathcal{H}}}}$

is available.
We will carry out these investigations in an abstract framework before applying our results, mainly a Strong Law of Large Numbers
and a Central Limit Theorem, to some typical fields of applications: discretization schemes of diffusions and nested Monte Carlo.
Crystal structure of 1,1-dimethyl-3-(4-methylphenyl)urea, C10H14N2O
Authors: El-Hiti Gamal A. , Smith Keith , Hegazy Amany S. , Kariuki Benson M.
Published: February 2017

C10H14N2O, monoclinic, Cc (no. 9), a = 6.8354(9) Å, b = 13.8221(17) Å, c = 10.2905(12) Å, β = 90.625(11)°, V = 972.2(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0526, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1335, T = 296(2) K.
Quality traits of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) produced in the Italian Alps
Authors: Giorgi Annamaria , Pentimalli Daniela , Giupponi Luca , Panseri Sara
Published: February 2017

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a perennial herbaceous geophyte in the Iridaceae family. It propagates vegetatively by corm. All saffron production processes are generally conducted by hand: from bulb implantation, harvesting of flowers to stigma separation. Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world because of the intensive hand labour required for production. The increasing interest in Crocus sativus cultivation and production in the Italian Alpine area could increase revenues for the rural farming economy. Twenty eight dried saffron samples were collected from different farmers of the Italian Alpine area (Lombardia, Trentino Alto Adige, Piemonte and Veneto) between November 2015 and March 2016. Each sample was processed to determine their moisture content and amount of picrocrocin, crocins and safranal using the methods established by the International Organization for Standardization for saffron (ISO 3632 1,2:2010-2011). Over 82.1 % of the samples analyzed were ranked in the highest quality category of the ISO 3632. A high quality saffron product can be produced in the Italian Alpine area suggesting that this crop could serve as a sustainable source of economic revenues to diversified farms in the Alps.
The effects of complete decongestive therapy on the extent of secondary lymphoedema in women after breast cancer treatment
Authors: Malicka Iwona , Marciniak Dawid
Published: February 2017

Aim of the study was to assess the effects of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) on the extent of lymphedema of the upper extremity in women post cancer treatment.

Study group: 20 women after breast cancer treatment with a mean age of 63.15 years (± 8.15). The group was intentionally divided into 2 groups: patients with lymphedema and patients without lymphedema. The first group (study group, n = 10) consisted of women who received CDT. 70% of them had undergone mastectomy and 30% – breast-conserving surgery. In addition, 60% had received radiotherapy, 70% – chemotherapy and 80% – hormone therapy. The mean post-treatment period was 6.2 ± 3.5 years. Patients in the second group (control group, n = 10) did not receive any anti-edema treatments. 90% of them had undergone mastectomy and 10% – breast-conserving surgery. In addition, 40% of study participants had received adjuvant treatment in the form of radiotherapy, 80% – chemotherapy and 50% – hormone therapy. The mean post-treatment period was 6.3 ± 4.4 years. Method: The extent of lymphedema was measured using a centimeter tape and Limb Volumes Professional 5.0 software.

A significant reduction in the extent of lymphedema (p = 0.005) was achieved in the CDT group between baseline and post-treatment assessments. No such reduction, however, was found in the control group (p = 0.33).

Complete decongestive therapy is an effective method of treatment of lymphedema in women post breast cancer treatment.
Attitudes of physiotherapy students towards kynotherapy
Authors: Dąbrowska Maria , Grabowska Magdalena
Published: February 2017

One of the forms of therapy that is designed to enhance effects of physiotherapy is kynotherapy. This study focused on physiotherapy students’ opinions on kynotherapy, asking them whether therapy involving a dog may have positive consequences for a patient.

The study was conducted in a group of sixty third-year physiotherapy students studying at L. Rydygier’s Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Poland, and third-year students from the College of Health Sciences in Bydgoszcz. Responses to 20 claims concerning the use of kynotherapy in physiotherapy were obtained, using a written anonymous questionnaire. The questionnaire included equal number of positive and negative statements about opinions and knowledge concerning dog-therapy.

Most of the respondents perceive kynotherapy as an effective method supporting rehabilitation. According to physiotherapists this method increases the effects of rehabilitation and may help in breaking the boredom of longterm therapy. In respondents’ opinion work with a kynotherapist and his dog improves patients’ mobility and enhances the effect of rehabilitation. Besides, activities of this kind are more interesting than the standard treatment. However, kynotherapy cannot be the only method of rehabilitation.

1. Physiotherapy students’ perception of kynotherapy is good. 2. Kynotherapy can be more widely used as one of the valid methods in rehabilitation therapy.
Complex decongestive therapy for secondary lymphoedema in women after breast cancer treatment
Authors: Malicka Iwona , Marciniak Dawid
Published: February 2017

Secondary lymph edema occurs in abort 6-40% of women treated for breast cancer. This is not the only an aesthetic problem. Edema makes serious health complications for example recurrent inflammation and rose, limb elephantiasis, which leads to degenerative changes in the joints, nerve plexus damage and angiosarcoma – cancer with poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and implementation of therapy is very important. Too late intervention difficult the rehabilitation and increases the possibility of complications also. The most important in the reduction of swelling and remove the lymph balance is a complex decongestive therapy (CDT): lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, skin care and exercises. Lymphatic drainage results in increased production of the lymph and movement of the lymph. Compression therapy leads to the reduction in the effective pressure ultrafiltration. Skin care is to prevent bacterial and fungal infections. Exercises makes increase muscle pump action and transport of the lymph. CDT consist of two phase: reduction phase and consolidation phase. It is a most popular method of treatment lymph edema around the world. It is most effective therapy also.
Pain threshold of low back in patients with diversified level of physical activity without pain symptoms
Authors: Żywień Urszula , Sipko Tomasz
Published: February 2017

Professional work in a sitting position and the low level of physical activity could be an important cause of overload symptoms formation in the lumbar spine.

Objective of the work: The evaluation quantity of the low back pain threshold in patients without pain symptoms, with diversified level of physical activity.

The research was conducted in group 40 subjects at the age of 20 to 25, IT specialists and physiotherapists. The participants could participate in the study under the condition that they have never had low back pain before. Patients from the experimental group were divided into 3 categories: active (13 patients), minimally active (18 patients) and inactive (9 patients). The division was made on the basis of The International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form. The pain threshold was determined by an algometer, every time, on both sides of the spine at the level of L3 and in neutral point on hand, the test was performed twice.

Analysis of variance ANOVA showed a main effect of level of physical activity for the pain threshold results on the pine left (F = 8.01; p < 0.05) and right site (F = 9.77; p < 0.05). There has not been demonstrated such effect for the pain threshold results around hand (F = 0.62, p > 0.05).

Lower quantity of low back pain threshold occurs in the patients with inactive and minimal active declared physical activity level. This indicates the need of low back pain prevention, which could be achieved by increasing physical activity level. The people without pain symptoms do not show asymmetry of the pain threshold between the right and the left side.