bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The configuration of the Pontus Euxinus in Ptolemy's Geography
Authors: Shcheglov Dmitry A.
Published: April 2020

Abstract. This article aims to explain how Ptolemy could have constructed a
map of the Pontus Euxinus (Black Sea), as described in his Geography, under the
assumption that his sources were similar to those that have come down to us.
The method employed is based on the comparison of Ptolemy's data with
corresponding information from other ancient sources, revealing the most
conspicuous similarities and differences between them. Three types of
information are considered as possible “constituent elements” of Ptolemy's
map: latitudes, coastline lengths, and straight-line distances. It is argued
that the latitudes Ptolemy used for the key points determining the overall shape of
the Pontus (Byzantium, Trapezus, the mouth of the Borysthenes and the
Cimmerian Bosporus, the mouth of the Tanais, etc.) were most likely
inherited from earlier geographers (Eratosthenes, Hipparchus, and Marinus).
In exactly the same way, Ptolemy's data on the circumference of the Pontus
and the length of the coastal stretches between the key points (from the
Thracian Bosporus to Cape Karambis, Sinope, Trapezus, and the mouth of the
Phasis, etc.) closely correlate with the corresponding estimates reported by
other geographers (Eratosthenes, Artemidorus, Strabo, Pliny, Arrian, and
Pseudo-Arrian), which implies that Ptolemy drew on similar coastline length
information. The shortening of Ptolemy's west coast of the Pontus (from the
Thracian Bosporus to the mouth of the Borysthenes) relative to the
corresponding distances reported by other sources is explained by his
underestimation of the circumference of the Earth. The lengthening of
Ptolemy's north-east Pontus coast (from the Cimmerian Bosporus to the mouth
of the Phasis) can, in part, be accounted for by his attempt to incorporate
the straight-line distances across the open sea reported by Pliny. Overall,
Ptolemy's configuration of the Black Sea can be satisfactorily explained as
a result of fitting contradictory pieces of information together that were inherited
from earlier geographical traditions.
Application of Gamma functions to the determination of unit hydrographs
Authors: Li Hongyan , Cidan Yangzong
Published: April 2020

Abstract. There are many methods for calculating unit hydrograph, such as analysis method, trial algorithm and least squares method. But these methods have certain requirements for flood datas and the unit hydrograph may not be optimal. Based on the theory of composition, a hydrological system was viewed as a generalized collection in this study and Gamma functions were used to simulate the basin convergence process. At the same time, the Gamma function is parameterized and the parameters of Gamma function are optimized by genetic algorithm, which is based on the minimum error between the calculation of confluence process and the measurement process, before deriving the unit hydrograph. The Collins iteration method was used to compute the unit hydrograph. The results of actual calculated examples showe that this method is more precise than other methods, while it can also illustrate the law of runoff.
Evaluation of the experiences and needs of users of a drug information resources website
Authors: Isenor Jennifer E. , Helwig Melissa , Weale Michael B. , Bowles Susan K.
Published: April 2020

Objective: This article describes the evaluation of the experiences and needs of users of the Drug Information Resources (DIR) website. The DIR website attracts traffic and use from around the world with the highest users in Canada and the United States. Methods: An online questionnaire was developed through literature review and Google Analytics data. Face validity testing and test-retest reliability were completed prior to releasing the questionnaire. Results: Although the Google Analytics data showed that the site is used internationally, most respondents were Canadian students. They used the site for academic and clinical purposes and reported it was easy to use, well organized, include required resources, and would recommend it to others.  Conclusion: DIR was found to be a valuable resource for educational and clinical use. Future studies will aim to obtain input from international users.
A comparison of patient, intervention, comparison, outcome (PICO) to a new, alternative clinical question framework for search skills, search results, and self-efficacy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kloda Lorie A. , Boruff Jill T. , Soares Cavalcante Alexandre
Published: April 2020

Objective: In educating students in the health professions about evidence-based practice, instructors and librarians typically use the patient, intervention, comparison, outcome (PICO) framework for asking clinical questions. A recent study proposed an alternative framework for the rehabilitation professions. The present study investigated the effectiveness of teaching the alternative framework in an educational setting.Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with students in occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) to determine if the alternative framework for asking clinical questions was effective for identifying information needs and searching the literature. Participants were randomly allocated to a control or experimental group to receive ninety minutes of information literacy instruction from a librarian about formulating clinical questions and searching the literature using MEDLINE. The control group received instruction that included the PICO question framework, and the experimental group received instruction that included the alternative framework.Results: There were no significant differences in search performance or search skills (strategy and clinical question formulation) between the two groups. Both the control and experimental groups demonstrated a modest but significant increase in information literacy self-efficacy after the instruction; however, there was no difference between the two groups.Conclusion: When taught in an information literacy session, the new, alternative framework is as effective as PICO when assessing OT and PT students’ searching skills. Librarian-led workshops using either question formulation framework led to an increase in information literacy self-efficacy post-instruction.
SPI-Hub™: a gateway to scholarly publishing information
Authors: Koonce Taneya Y. , Blasingame Mallory N. , Zhao Jerry , Williams Annette M. , Su Jing , DesAutels Spencer J. , Giuse Dario A. , Clark John D. , Fox Zachary E. , Giuse Nunzia Bettinsoli
Published: April 2020

Background: Advances in the health sciences rely on sharing research and data through publication. As information professionals are often asked to contribute their knowledge to assist clinicians and researchers in selecting journals for publication, the authors recognized an opportunity to build a decision support tool, SPI-Hub: Scholarly Publishing Information Hub™, to capture the team’s collective publishing industry knowledge, while carefully retaining the quality of service.Case Presentation: SPI-Hub’s decision support functionality relies on a data framework that describes journal publication policies and practices through a newly designed metadata structure, the Knowledge Management Journal Record™. Metadata fields are populated through a semi-automated process that uses custom programming to access content from multiple sources. Each record includes 25 metadata fields representing best publishing practices. Currently, the database includes more than 24,000 health sciences journal records. To correctly capture the resources needed for both completion and future maintenance of the project, the team conducted an internal study to assess time requirements for completing records through different stages of automation.Conclusions: The journal decision support tool, SPI-Hub, provides an opportunity to assess publication practices by compiling data from a variety of sources in a single location. Automated and semi-automated approaches have effectively reduced the time needed for data collection. Through a comprehensive knowledge management framework and the incorporation of multiple quality points specific to each journal, SPI-Hub provides prospective users with both recommendations for publication and holistic assessment of the trustworthiness of journals in which to publish research and acquire trusted knowledge.
A case report about anatomy applications for a physical therapy hybrid online curriculum
Authors: Havens Kathryn L. , Saulovich Nicole A. , Saric Karin J.
Published: April 2020

Background: Three-dimensional digital anatomy applications can provide a powerful supplement to more traditional learning modalities. The challenge for medical libraries and educators is to select an app that best supports anatomical learning objectives and then effectively integrate it into health sciences curricula. App selection is particularly important when traditional learning modalities, such as cadaver dissection, are not feasible. Selection was a challenge at the authors’ university, as the doctor of physical therapy (DPT) program expanded into a hybrid online environment.Case Presentation: Reported here are our: (1) analysis and identification of an anatomy app to supplement cadaver lab instruction for DPT students who were enrolled in a hybrid program, where the majority of instruction took place online; (2) description of the implementation process; and (3) discussion of student feedback and the library’s perspective. Features and shortcomings of two anatomy apps, Complete Anatomy (CA) 2019 by 3D4 Medical and Human Anatomy Atlas (HAA) 2019 by Visible Body, were reviewed. CA was selected based on smoother navigation, visually appealing graphics, and user customization tools. The library purchased 1,000 CA redemption codes as a pilot program. Video recordings and live demonstrations of the app were used for instruction. Student feedback indicated extensive use. Based on success of the pilot, the library will purchase additional licenses.Conclusions: Medical libraries can use our experience as an example to help select anatomy resources that would be useful when considering the conversion of health sciences programs into online environments and further guide app integration to supplement other anatomical models.
The impact of institutional repositories: a systematic review
Authors: Demetres Michelle R. , Delgado Diana , Wright Drew N.
Published: April 2020

Objective: Institutional repositories are platforms for presenting and publicizing scholarly output that might not be suitable to publish in a peer-reviewed journal or that must meet open access requirements. However, there are many challenges associated with their launch and up-keep. The objective of this systematic review was to define the impacts of institutional repositories (IRs) on an academic institution, thus justifying their implementation and/or maintenance.Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed in the following databases: Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, the Cochrane Library (Wiley), ERIC (ProQuest), Web of Science (Core Collection), Scopus (Elsevier), and Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts (EBSCO). A total of 6,593 citations were screened against predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.Results: Thirteen included studies were divided into 3 areas of impact: citation count, exposure or presence, and administrative impact. Those focusing on citation count (n=5) and exposure or presence (n=7) demonstrated positive impacts of IRs on institutions and researchers. One study focusing on administrative benefit demonstrated the utility of IRs in automated population of ORCID profiles.Conclusion: Based on the available literature, IRs appear to have a positive impact on citation count, exposure or presence, and administrative burden. To draw stronger conclusions, more and higher-quality studies are needed.
Health Psychology Consultation in the Inpatient Medical Setting
Authors: Connor Elizabeth
Published: April 2020

Health Psychology Consultation in the Inpatient Medical Setting is suitable and recommended for any collection that focuses on clinical psychology or interprofessional consultation.
El museo como laboratorio escolar. Análisis de buenas prácticas
Authors: Lucas Laura , Trabajo Monica , Borghi Beatrice
Published: April 2020

Este trabajo presenta los resultados de una investigación vinculada al proyecto de Investigación EPITEC, el cual está financiado por el Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad del Gobierno de España. Para la investigación, tomamos como estudio de caso el Museo internazionale e biblioteca della musica di Bologna, ejemplo de buenas prácticas educativas. A través de varias técnicas de recogida de información, como entrevistas, registros de observación y análisis de materiales; analizamos a través de una compleja tabla de categorías, el programa informático Atlas.ti y un sistema de doble triangulación, cómo es la relación escuela-museo. Los datos analizados revelan que la interacción escuela-museo, y la potencialidad didáctica de las actividades que se recogen, responden a una buena calidad de las prácticas educativas que se desarrollan en este museo.
Literatura y Arte Indoamericano actual. La resignificación de una nueva frontera estética, política y cultural
Authors: García-Barrera Mabel
Published: April 2020

Este trabajo sostiene que las actuales producciones literarias y artísticas indoamericanas son expresión sensible de una nueva identidad geopolítica continental, la que emerge vinculada a la recuperación de una memoria cultural e histórica colectiva, al valor de la diversidad, y al reconocimiento y reivindicación de saberes y territorios ancestrales. Este complejo proceso se orienta a resignificar una cartografía cultural anterior a lo colonial, bifurcada del proceso sociocultural y político latinoamericano, dando origen a un “otro” movimiento continental.
Desde una perspectiva estética y decolonial, planteo una visión sistémica sobre el actual proceso literario y artístico indígena, y describo en obras representativas la emergencia de esta nueva consciencia poscolonial y fronteriza que lucha por su autonomía estética, política y epistémica.
Mutaciones del espacio escénico en la era digital
Authors: Zorita-Aguirre Itziar
Published: April 2020

Las artes escénicas contemporáneas favorecen la intermedialidad, la hibridación y el diálogo entre múltiples medios y lenguajes. Con la expansión de la tecnología digital, las artes en vivo experimentan nuevas posibilidades que, a menudo, afectan directamente a la misma ontología del teatro. En este artículo se pretende ahondar concretamente en la noción de espacio escénico y detectar los aspectos que más se han transformado respecto a la noción tradicional del espacio, un espacio que hasta ahora se ha basado principalmente en la copresencia de los sujetos participantes (público y performers). A través del análisis de diversas obras escénicas, se muestra cuáles son las aportaciones del medio digital en lo referente a la cuestión espacial y de cómo estas nuevas posibilidades determinan los procesos de recepción y experiencia estética. Para el conocimiento de este paradigma actual se evidencia la necesidad de ampliar el análisis a los discursos en torno a la intermedialidad que estimulen nuevas perspectivas y maneras de acercarnos al objeto de estudio.
Variaciones en los hábitos de estudio en función del género y origen étnico-cultural del alumnado y su relación con el rendimiento escolar
Authors: Santos Rego Miguel Ángel , Lorenzo Moledo Mar , Priegue Caamaño Diana , Torrado Quintela Julio
Published: April 2020

La relación entre los hábitos de estudio y el rendimiento escolar ha sido ampliamente analizada por la investigación educativa. Concretamente, en este trabajo pretendemos profundizar en este campo, y a partir de las variables género y origen étnico-cultural del alumnado, evaluar y comparar los hábitos de estudio de los diferentes subgrupos, y analizar su relación con el rendimiento. Nuestros resultados nos permiten afirmar que la variable género es más discriminante que el origen, alcanzando las mujeres puntuaciones significativamente más altas en la escala de hábitos de estudio. De hecho, no hemos encontrado diferencias significativas en función del origen. Respecto del rendimiento académico, se han mostrado mejores puntuaciones para los no repetidores de curso. Finalmente, los datos fueron sometidos a un modelo de regresión logística que ofreció resultados significativos que confirman que los hábitos de estudio son buenos predictores, en un 76% de los casos, de la no repetición de curso.
Desarrollo de la carrera emprendedora: Identificación de perfiles, competencias y necesidades
Authors: Suárez Ortega Magdalena , Sánchez-García Mª Fe , Soto-González María Dolores
Published: April 2020

En el marco específico de la formación y orientación profesional de jóvenes y adultos, se considera el emprendimiento como una transición posibleque acontece en la trayectoria profesional/laboral de las personas (en crecimiento ante la estructural precarización laboral), con lo que ello implica para la construcción y reorientación de proyectos profesionales-vitales. El objetivo de este artículo es analizar las motivaciones y los condicionantes de carrera que tienen las personas que desarrollan una actividad emprendedora, identificando perfiles y necesidades sobre el modo en que articulan sus diversos roles vitales-profesionales. Para ello se realiza un estudio tipo encuesta, diseñando y aplicando el cuestionario de Motivación y condicionantes de la carrera emprendedora (MCCE), determinando sus características psicométricas (n=248 personas emprendedoras en España): validez de contenido (revisión de expertos), validez de constructo (análisis factorial exploratorio) y análisis de consistencia interna (alpha de Cronbach= .79), comprobando la idoneidad y relevancia del instrumento. Los resultados muestran una marcada satisfacción respecto a sus trayectorias profesionales, al tiempo que la existencia de conflictos para la conciliación personal-profesional. Las necesidades de asesoramiento empresarial se presentan diferenciadas de las necesidades de orientación para la carrera. Se identifica la presencia de una diversidad de motivaciones para emprender, identificándose, a través del análisis de conglomerados tres perfiles notables a partir de los factores encontrados y las variables sociodemográficas. Se discute acerca del modelo obtenido y de sus implicaciones para el diseño de acciones de formación y orientación a emprendedores.
El poder de la polis. Notas sobre la crítica arendtiana de la filosofía política platónica
Authors: Basili Cristina
Published: April 2020

Uno de los rasgos más innovadores del pensamiento de Hannah Arendt se halla en su original concepción del poder político. En oposición a la tradición filosófico-política occidental, la autora rescata una noción positiva de poder, como resultado de la acción colectiva, mientras que desvincula poder y violencia. Este artículo presenta un análisis del concepto arendtiano de poder y una reconstrucción detallada de su génesis en el pensamiento de Arendt. En particular, se examina el vinculo entre la elaboración alrededor del poder, la crítica de la filosofía platónica y la interpretación del mundo griego clásico. De esta manera, se procura demostrar como la polis representa, en la obra arendtiana, un laboratorio conceptual para la renovación las categorías políticas modernas.*

 

* El presente trabajo ha sido llevado a cabo gracias a la obtención de una Ayuda Juan de la Cierva-formación (2017) concedida por el Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades y la consecuente incorporación en el Grupo de investigación “Historia y ontología del presente: la perspectiva hispana” de la Universidad Complutense de Madrid, dirigido por el Prof. José Luis Villacañas. Agradezco a Víctor Caleya su atenta revisión del texto.
Antonio Hermosa, El hombre tras los hechos. Naturaleza humana y política en la historiografía clásica, Athenaica ediciones universitarias, Sevilla, 243 pp.
Authors: Díaz Martín José Manuel
Published: April 2020

Rese´ña del libro de Antonio Hermosa, El hombre tras los hechos. Naturaleza humana y política en la historiografía clásica, Athenaica ediciones universitarias, Sevilla, 243 pp.
Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis After Pelvic and Acetabular Fractures: A Survey of Orthopaedic Surgeons' Current Practices
Authors: Lim Philip K. , Ahn Jaimo , Scolaro John A.
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

The goal of this study was to identify the current practices and rationale of orthopaedic surgeons regarding venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis for pelvic and acetabular (P&A) fractures.

Methods:

A 25-item web-based questionnaire was made available to all Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) members on the OTA website. Analysis of data was performed after the three-month study period.

Results:

One hundred three active OTA members completed the survey. Most respondents practiced at an academic level I trauma centers. The most important factor in selecting a VTE regimen was its effectiveness, whereas cost was the least important. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) remains the preferred agent for VTE prophylaxis after P&A trauma. Factors such as surgical intervention and weight-bearing had a variable effect on surgeons' opinions regarding the type and duration of VTE prophylaxis.

Conclusion:

Most surgeons treating P&A fractures use LMWH for VTE prophylaxis, but the decision on which agent to use and duration of treatment is multifactorial. Published VTE prophylaxis literature and guidelines provide some guidance, but there is no consensus. Overall, LMWH appears to be the VTE prophylaxis agent of choice for most orthopaedic trauma surgeons, irrespective of nonsurgical or surgical management of these fractures.
Lymphedema: A Significant Risk Factor for Infection and Implant Failure After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Kolz Joshua M. , Rainer William G. , Wyles Cody C. , Houdek Matthew T. , Perry Kevin I. , Lewallen David G.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Lymphedema is characterized by fluid buildup and swelling, leading to skin fibrosis and recurring soft-tissue infections. There is a paucity of data examining the impact of lymphedema in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study was to review the outcomes of TKA in patients with lymphedema compared with a matched cohort with primary osteoarthritis.

Methods:

One hundred forty-four knees underwent primary TKA with a preceding diagnosis of ipsilateral lymphedema. The mean follow-up was 7 years. A blinded 1:2 match of knees with lymphedema to a group of knees without lymphedema undergoing primary TKA was performed. Matching criteria included sex, age, date of surgery, and body mass index. The mean follow-up for the comparison cohort was 8 years.

Results:

Lymphedema increased revision hazard ratio [HR] 7.60; P < 0.001), reoperation (HR, 2.87; P < 0.001), and infection (HR, 6.19; P < 0.001) in addition to periprosthetic fracture (P = 0.04) and tibial component loosening (P = 0.01). The mean time to infection trended toward later time points in knees with lymphedema (19 versus 2 months, P = 0.25).

Discussion:

Lymphedema increased the risk of revision, reoperation, and infection. These data highlight the need for appropriate patient counseling and the need for further investigation into the effects of preoperative and postoperative optimization of lymphedema management in the TKA setting.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III
Simulation of 3 Body Exo-Planetary System Orbits
Authors: Li Zixin
Published: April 2020

To find out the general motion model of exo-planetary systems with one star and two planets, a computer program was used to carry out simulations and generate graphs showing the orbits of planets. When given the orbital periods and masses of the planets and stars, it is possible to predict the location of the planets over time and plot the shape of the orbit by considering the gravitational interactions between planets and the star, assuming that the planetary orbits are co-planar. I used the program to reproduce the result of transit timing variations (TTVs) of Kepler-46 system, I then investigated on the magnitude of transit timing variations on a 3-body system with various masses and periods. I also ran simulations to investigate the pattern of orbits for different periods of planets in order to get a systematic conclusion.
Examining the Factors Affecting Endodontic Therapy Failure
Authors: Yancheshmeh Shahla Shokrollahi Yancheshmeh
Published: April 2020

The purpose of the study was to examine the factors affecting Endodontic Therapy Failure (ETF). The study was descriptive cross-sectional conducted at College of Dental Science & Research Centre.

Dental school in Pune, India. In the present study, 90 patients were analyzed in the treatment ward. According to the results, the highest endodontic failure was observed in 41-50 years age group (41.11%) and the least was in 21-30 (24.44%). According to the tooth type, most endodontic failures were observed in maxillary molars (44.4%), mandibular molars (20%) and maxillary premolars (15.5%). Endodontic treatment by general dental practitioners (GDPs) showed the highest failure rate (78.8%). The factors contributing to the most common endodontic problems were under-filled canals (33.3%) and unfilled and missed canals (17.7%). The study concluded that ETF occurred when the treatment was not according to the accepted standards. The main causes of ETF are microbial infection in the root canal system and these patients' not attending the specialists.
Investigating Job Stress among Professional Drivers
Authors: Rahimpour Farzaneh , Jarahi Lida , Rafeemanesh Ehsan , Taghati Atefeh , Ahmadi Fatemeh
Published: April 2020

Purpose: Psychological stress is one of the main occupational hazards. The aim of this study was evaluating psychological stress in terms of role stress and its domains in professional drivers.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 heavy vehicle drivers and 330 light vehicle drivers. Data were collected using interview and Osipow job stress questionnaire. T-test ،ANOVA ، chi-square test and linear regression were used in analyzing the data.

Results: 33.2% of the participants had mild to moderate stress. Independent psychological stress predictors were vehicle type, shift work, job satisfaction, and income. Stress scores were higher in work overload, role conflict, responsibility, and work environment in heavy vehicle drivers than light vehicle drivers (p<0.001), while this difference was not significant in terms of role insufficiency and ambiguity.

Conclusion: Nearly one-third of the drivers had mild to moderate stress level. Overall stress level was higher in heavy vehicle drivers than light vehicle drivers. The highest score in stress domains in all drivers attributed to the role insufficiency.
Mid and Long Term Echocardiographic and Clinical Follow up of Treated Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis Patients
Authors: Iman Lotfian , Mahmoud Shabestari , Mahmood Ebrahimi , Homa Falsoleiman , Mohsen Moohebati , Hoorak Poorzand , Fateme Iravani , Majid Jalal Yazdi
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) is a common valvopathy in developing countries that requires invasive or minimally invasive treatment. There is scarcity of data regarding the long term follow up of treated MS patients.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the long-term outcomes of biologic and mechanical prosthesis and percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy (PTMC) in treated MS patients.

Materials and Methods: This historical cohort study was conducted on treated MS patients who underwent treatment in a tertiary hospital in Mashhad, Iran. Treated MS patients were identified and asked to refer to the center for follow up. Demographic characteristics and type of treatment intervention were obtained from patient records. The follow up assessment included history of PTMC, readmission and echocardiography to assess trans mitral gradient (MG), size and function of right ventricle (RV) and the presence and severity of other valvopathies.

Results: A total of 135 patients (21.5% males and 78.5% females) with the mean age of 43.68 ± 11.17 years old participated in the study. The most common intervention method was mechanical valve (61.5%) followed by PTMC (24.4%) and biologic valve (14.1%). Median follow up duration was 4 years. Majority of subjects (52.6%) remained asymptomatic and the functional class was reduced significantly compared to baseline. MG was significantly higher in PTMC and biological valve group compared to mechanical valve p<0.001). Mitral regurgitation (MR) was more prevalent in PTMC group (p<0.001) while abnormal RV size and function the least common in PTMC group (p=0.014 and p=0.002 respectively).

Conclusions: All intervention groups resulted in improved functional class of MS patients but high prevalence of MR and lower prevalence of abnormal RV size and function were observed in PTMS group compared to surgical groups.
Les transformacions de la lectura a l’aula
Authors: Colomer Martínez Teresa
Published: April 2020

Aquest text reprodueix la conferència impartida per la Dra. Teresa Colomer a les jornades sobre L’ensenyament de la lectura i l’escriptura: recerca i innovació a l’aula organitzades pel Grup de recerca LLETRA (Barcelona, CaixaForum, 29/03/2019).
The use of the Hurst exponent to investigate the quality of forecasting methods of ultra-high-frequency data of exchange rates
Authors: Szóstakowski Robert
Published: April 2020

Over the last century a variety of methods have been used for forecasting financial time data series with different results. This article explains why most of them failed to provide reasonable results based on fractal theory using one day tick data series from the foreign exchange market. Forecasting AMAPE errors and forecasting accuracy ratios were calculated for statistical and machine learning methods for currency time series which were divided into sub-segments according to Hurst ratio. This research proves that the forecasting error decreases and the forecasting accuracy increases for all of the forecasting methods when the Hurt ratio increases. The approach which was used in the article can be successfully applied to time series forecasting by indicating periods with the optimal values of the Hurst exponent.
Method of Determining Trajectories in a Neighbourhood of Long-Run Equilibrium in Neoclassical Models of Exogenous Economic Growth
Authors: Krawiec Adam , Stachowski Aleksander , Szydłowski Marek
Published: April 2020

We consider economic growth models in the form of dynamical systems. We show a method of determining trajectories in a neighbourhood of a long-run equilibrium in some neoclassical models of exogenous economic growth. This method is applied primarily to these models which in general have no analytical solution. We propose the general method of finding solutions of arbitrarily dimensional dynamical system in the form of power series. We expand the state function in Taylor's series in the neighbourhood of the initial state. The coefficients of expansion represent the parameters of the variation of the state of the system and are calculated algebraically in Mathematica. We present the method of finding solutions for the Solow-Swan model and the Mankiw-Romer-Weil model. We use also the Padé aproximant method to obtain a better convergence of the power series. This method allows to obtain a solution in the form of a series for trajectories in a neighbourhood of a long-run equilibrium in two models of exogenous economic growth. We show that obtained solutions are a good approximation of time paths, along which the long-run equilibrium is reached. We show a possibility of estimation of model parameters for which solutions in the form of series are known.
The Similarity of the Structure of Selected Budget Expenditures of Polish Voivodships and Their Sustainable Development: New Research Tools
Authors: Deręgowski Karol , Krzyśko Mirosław , Wołyński Waldemar
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this paper is to describe the relationship between the structure of selected budget expenditure of Polish voivodships and their sustainable development. The extended analysis of the kernel principal components was used for this description when the Polish voivodships are characterised by many features observed in many time points. The division of Polish voivodships into homogeneous groups is proposed by the cluster analysis method. The selection of sustainability indicators most characteristic of the distiguished clusters takes place using the Mahalanonis distance.
Data envelopment analysis method in comparison with traditional indicator approach in the assessment of financial condition of Ekstraklasa clubs
Authors: Wyszyński Artur
Published: April 2020

The aim of this article is to apply the technical efficiency indicators obtained using the CCR and BCC models of the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), which are measures of the financial condition of Ekstraklasa football clubs that played matches, in the highest class in Poland, in the season 2014/2015. Statistical and discriminatory analyses were used in order to examine the interdependence between the performance indicators and the financial condition of clubs illustrated by three indicators: current liquidity, net profitability and debt. The choice of football clubs was determined by the availability of data from reports of Deloitte as well as Ernst & Young.
The research shows that there is a strong correlation between performance measures and financial indicators. The analyzed interdependence was confirmed by the results of testing the differences significance of financial indicators between the group of effective and ineffective clubs. Indicator which considerably differentiates clubs and has the greatest impact on results is financial liquidity. The results obtained indicate that measures computed using the CCR and BCC models can be applied to assess the financial condition of sports clubs.
Assessment of seasonal unemployment fluctuations in the coastal tourist regions of Poland and Spain
Authors: Klonowska-Matynia Maria , Radlińska Kamila
Published: April 2020

The aim of the research is to compare and assess the diversity of seasonal unemployment fluctuations on the coastal labour markets in tourist regions of Poland and Spain. Detailed analyses concerned the level and distribution of monthly seasonal unemployment fluctuations on the coastal and peripheral labour markets. The Census X-12 ARIMA procedure was used to extract the seasonal component. Data on the monthly number of unemployed persons from January 2006 to December 2015 were used in the analysis. For Poland, data were obtained from labour offices in powiats and for Spain from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (Ministerio de Empleo y Seguridad Social).
International comparisons show that higher seasonal fluctuations in unemployment are characteristic of tourist areas in Poland (both coastal and peripheral). Throughout the year the similar distribution of seasonal unemployment fluctuations was observed on the labour markets in both countries.
Development of the payment cards market in Poland in comparison with other European Union countries
Authors: Idzik Marcin , Sobczak Krzysztof
Published: April 2020

The aim of this article is to identify and project trends in the development of the non-cash payment market in Poland in terms of the payment cards use. The study was carried out on the basis of data from the European Central Bank (ECB) for EU countries for the years 2000—2014. The space-time analogy method was used.
In Poland, the dynamics of payments by card at POS terminals (in commercial outlets) is higher than the EU average. However, in terms of such measures as the number of payment cards per capita as well as the number of POS terminals and ATMs per 1 million inhabitants, the gap between Poland and the EU average is over 10 years. In Poland, market was similar to 20 EU countries and will maintain development trends at least until 2020.
Methodology of measuring social benefits resulting from free legal counselling
Authors: Florczak Waldemar
Published: April 2020

The aim of the article is to discuss the main methodological issues concerning the measurement of social benefits resulting from legal and civic counselling. A critical resumption of the existing practice of macroeconomic valuation of the counselling effects was conducted and a preliminary analysis of the demand-driven benefits for Poland was carried out in the article. Methodological considerations were illustrated by a case of domestic violence, specifying all possible paths of reactions to the problem along with financial consequences of such reactions. The first attempt was made to present the measurement of the legal counselling benefits using an algorithm, pointing to all the circumstances that should be considered when quantifying such benefits. On the basis of the existing — not free from certain shortcomings indicated in the article — estimates of benefits and costs of free legal counselling systems, it can be clearly stated that social benefits significantly outweigh the costs connected with the functioning of such systems.
Diversification of the level of socio-economic development of powiats in Świętokrzyskie voivodship
Authors: Miłek Dorota
Published: April 2020

The aim of the article is to diagnose and evaluate the diversification of socio-economic development of powiats of Świętokrzyskie voivodship and to indicate groups of powiats with comparable levels of development. The research was conducted for the years 2010 and 2015. The indicators applied are systematised into the following areas: demographics and labour market, social potential, economic structure of a powiat, technical infrastructure, condition and protection of the natural environment. Hellwig's method of development pattern was employed to make synthetic evaluation of socio-economic development of powiats and Ward’s clustering method was used to identify groups of powiats similar in terms of the studied phenomenon.
The analysis enabled to identify powiats with the highest, high, low and lowest levels of development.
Diversification of economic development of EU countries on the basis of gravity growth model
Authors: Wisła Rafał , Filipowicz Katarzyna , Tokarski Tomasz
Published: April 2020

The aim of the article is to present the differentiation of economic development of the European Union countries in the years 2000—2015 and to simulate changes in labour productivity in the perspective of 2050. Two macroeconomic aggregates describing dynamics of development processes, i.e. labour productivity and capital-labour ratio, connected with the so-called gravity effects were used in the research. It was based on data from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
The results lead to the formulation of two key conclusions. Firstly, assuming that the average investment rate from 2000—2015, 2000—2008 and 2009—2015 is maintained in the perspective until 2050, the strongest annual average dynamics of labour productivity changes is observed in the countries belonging to the post-communist group. Secondly, the adoption, for the 2016—2050 period, of the average investment rate for the entire EU economy for 2000—2015, 2000—2008 and 2009—2015, will lead to the assumption that in 2050 the productivity of large groups of analysed countries will be shaped at a very similar level.
Somatic symptoms and level of anxiety and depression in self-referral patients at the emergency department
Authors: Lisowska Ada , Szwamel Katarzyna , Kurpas Donata
Published: April 2020

Background.
Due to multiple morbidities, patients experience various symptoms that may be of psychogenic or somatic origin. Anxiety and depression can induce somatization and the feeling that ailments require urgent medical intervention.
Aim of the study.
This study aimed to: (1) identify which symptoms self-referral patients most commonly report at the emergency department (ED) and which medical diagnoses they are discharged with; and (2) determine whether the type and severity of symptoms, as well as, sociodemographic variables are related to anxiety and depression levels.
Material and methods.
The study included 110 patients who self-referred to the ED at the University Clinical Hospital in Opole. Diagnostic surveys and questionnaires were used, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and an original questionnaire developed by the authors.
Results. Among those suffering from chronic diseases (n = 53; 48.62%), 12 patients (22.64%) did not complete a single visit to the PHCF (Primary Health Care Facility), and 30 patients (56.60%) did not complete a visit to OSC (Outpatient Specialist Care) during the previous 12 months. The most common cause of reporting to the ED were pain and a burning sensation in the chest (n = 29; 27.10%). During discharge, the most common diagnosis was “other chest pains” (n = 22; 20.00%). 82.73% (n = 91) of patients had clear anxiety disorders, and 68.18% (n = 75) had clear depressive disorders.

Conclusions:
In case of somatic symptoms without a discernible cause in patients, it is necessary to implement comprehensive measures within PHCF, such as periodic measurements of anxiety and depression severity, psychological consultation, and an in-depth medical interview. These data also suggest that proper clinical monitoring should be implemented, including clinical parameters relevant for chronic diseases and the number of visits to the PHCF and OSC.
Potential application of peer tutoring in the inclusive education of students with disability
Authors: Twardowski Andrzej
Published: April 2020

Both researchers and practitioners are interested in implementing best practices that improve educational outcomes for all learners. One solution to overcoming these challenges is the implementation of peer tutoring as a flexible strategy that involves students serving as academic tutors and tutees. In this article the author analyzes the following issues: (1) genesis and essence of inclusive education; (2) types of peer tutoring in the inclusive classrooms and (3) conditions for the effectiveness of peer tutoring in inclusive education.
The pattern of law principles’ comprehension by persons with mild intellectual disability
Authors: Kaliszewska Karolina , Żółkowska Teresa
Published: April 2020

This article presents the research conducted on intellectually disabled persons employed in the Professional Activation Municipality Institution in Dobra (Poland). The main aim of this analysis was to uncover how persons with mild intellectual disability understand law principles. In the conducted studies qualitative strategies, such as, imperative theoretical paradigm and phenomenological approach were used. Gathered empirical materials were used as a basis for reconstructing the experiences of researched employees, by decoding and describing the way mildly disabled persons understand law principles.
Stock of Durable Goods in Households
Authors: Piskiewicz Lucyna , Radziukiewicz Małgorzata
Published: April 2020

The aim of the article is to discuss the stock of durable goods in households and consumer behaviours in the market for domestic appliance, RTV, and ICT devices. The research dealt with: equipment of households with durables taking into account the age and the number of products possessed, stock of modern goods, the scale of unsatisfied needs in this respect, the factors determining the choice of durables, consumers’ attitudes towards market novelties in this group of products as well as the opinions on the exchange of possessed goods for the new ones. The analyses were based on the data from the survey of household budgets of Statistics Poland for 2015 and the results of surveys conducted with the CAPI (Computer Assisted Personal Interview) method by the Institute for Market, Consumption and Business Cycles Research in the years 2012—2015 within the research project of the National Science Centre entitled Consumption in an innovative economy.
The findings of the research indicate improvement in the condition of households equipment. More and more modern goods are owned, which affects the increase in the standard of equipment and, consequently, the value of the property possessed.
Identification and evaluation of wood price variability in Płock Forest District
Authors: Suchodolski Przemysław , Idzik Marcin
Published: April 2020

The main aim of the research is to evaluate the variability of prices of selected wood assortments in the Płock Forest District. Prices of eight wood types were analysed according to the rules of time series decomposition using the CENSUS II X-11 method. The cycles length was also evaluated by means of Fourier spectral analysis. Data were obtained from the Płock Forest District and covered the years 2004—2014 on a monthly basis.
On the basis of the conducted study, it was found that wood prices in the Płock Forest District are characterised by a clear share systematic variability which means that a trend and cyclicality can be distinguished. The results of this research have also shown considerable scale of seasonal and accidental fluctuations in wood prices. The analysis of wood prices showed a growing trend for all assortments, while the dynamics of seasonal fluctuations differed depending on the assortment. Significant intensity of random fluctuations was found, which were characterised by high amplitude of deviations.
Statistical surveys — model approach
Authors: Dygaszewicz Janusz , Szafrański Bolesław
Published: April 2020

Experiences, both in the area of research and development tasks, as well as those from the project-implementation undertakings concerning IT support of statistical production, indicate that the use of developed mathematical modelling methods is too small in relation to potential possibilities. The aim of the research is to demonstrate that the effects of mathematical modelling in the field of statistical research not only can contribute to the improvement of data processing efficiency in official statistics, but also affect the quality of functional requirements for IT support for statistical surveys. This objective was achieved by discussing the general mathematical model of statistical research, with particular emphasis on the basic phases of statistical production (collection, processing, analysis and dissemination of statistical data), as well as by indicating optimization tasks and benefits resulting from problems that may occur in the process of IT support design. In order to confirm the usefulness of the presented approach, the concept of integration of the effects of mathematical modelling and the traditional design of IT support was presented in the form of a UML diagram.
Individual Determinants for the Transfer of Knowledge in the Financial Sector
Authors: Kuchciak Iwa , Wiktorowicz Justyna
Published: April 2020

The globalization of financial markets and the technological developments that accompany it require the sector to manage knowledge more efficiently. This is especially the case in the area of retaining and making the best use of knowledge in the organization as well as creating and disseminating new knowledge and innovation. In the face of ongoing changes, effective knowledge transfer is becoming a factor stimulating the acquisition and maintenance of the competitive advantage of the organization. The aim of the study is to assess the circumstances of knowledge transfer in the financial sector, with a particular focus on the role of competences in this field. The paper presents the results of a literature study as well as own empirical research based on two data sources: individual data from employer surveys carried out as a part of the “Study of Human Capital” and data from Statistics Poland and the National Bank of Poland publications. The analysis of quantitative data is limited to descriptive statistics.