bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The professional image of a nurse as seen by parents of children hospitalized in the oncology department
Authors: Wańkowicz Agnieszka , Golubka Paweł , Dłuski Dominik , Golubka Wiktoria , Mierzyński Radzisław , Wańkowicz Piotr , Golubka Kristiana , Golubka Ivan , Bednarek Anna , Darmochwał-Kolarz Dorota
Published: May 2018

Introduction. The professional image of a nurse which is influenced by a whole variety of factors is the main subject of this work. The social attitudes toward nurses are related to people’s own beliefs, opinions, stereotypes, as well as the nurses’ professional, personal and interpersonal skills. The proper image of a nurse is very important. Patients are becoming increasingly demanding toward nurses which poses new challenges for nurses attempting at creating a positive image of this profession.

Aim. The aim of this work was to elicit the opinions about nurses’ work from parents of children hospitalized on the oncologic ward.

Material and methods. The authors used a questionnaire of their own making and conducted a literature analysis. The literature review was made using the data taken from Main Medical Library. The research group consisted of 50 parents of children hospitalized in Oncology, Hematology and Child Transplantology Department in Lublin. All the parents were advised about the aim of the study and informed that the questionnaire is anonymous and voluntary. The obtained results have then undergone a statistical analysis, using a Chi2 test. Statistical significance was reached at the level of p<0.05.

Results. The most important factors affecting the professional image of a nurse are as follows: the parent’s sex, their place of residence, nurse’s appearance, as well as the following traits: being nice, protective and friendly.

Discussion. The image of a nurse as someone who is smiling, friendly and calm appears to be the closest to an ideal picture of such a professional. This pertains not only to parents but to the society as a whole. The nurse should pay attention to patients’ physical needs and expectations, as well as their spiritual side.

Conclusions. The researched group provided a positive opinion about the work of nurses at the Department. They paid special attention to their being nice, protective and friendly. It is the nurses’ physical appearance that sheds a positive light on them, as competent and friendly professionals. Even though most people perceive nursing as a rather unattractive profession, there is a huge deal of respect for nurses.
Adaptation of children with illnesses of the motor organs to hospital conditions
Authors: Brodowicz-Król Magdalena , Pachuta Małgorzata , Pękała Zofia
Published: May 2018

Introduction. It seems that the society should accept the legal and moral responsibility and the care over the injured individuals due to their health problems. Medical staff, doctors and nurses play a major role in the care of children, it is them who are in a direct contact with them in the course of the stay in hospital. The reaction of a child, as an exceptional patient, is quite varied as for the stay in different institutions. Patience, warmth and understanding are features which are necessary in the adaptation to conditions of the treatment. The medical professionals somehow replace parents and care providers, and create home-like environment for these children which means they can always count on help and understanding.

Aim. The purpose of this research was to portray children in hospital as well as their stance toward the current situation, expectations, pleasures and aversions.

Material and methods. The authors of the study examined 20 patients of a surgical clinic, both girls and boys. They applied the method of the diagnostic survey. The research was done using theinterview technique based on contents of unfinished sentences. 12 girls and 8 boys took part in the examination.

Results and conclusion. The examinations reveal that in order to combat negative feelings and overcome loneliness amongill children, hospitals should prolong the visiting time for family and friends and locate patients in rooms according to age, sex or disease. Delivering the greater scope of information provides a sense of security to children and hence has a positive effect to the adaptation to hospital settings.
Frequency of hospitalization in patients diagnosed with congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV)
Authors: Okoński Piotr , Misztal-Okońska Patrycja , Okoński Marek , Książek Piotr , Goniewicz Mariusz
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), also called clubfoot is the second after congenital dysplasia of the hip (CDH) most frequently occurring congenital limb defect. In Europe the deformity affects 1-2 newborns in 1000 live births.

Aim. The aim of the study was to determine frequency of the deformity among other reasons for hospitalization, as well as depicting the profile of patients treated for clubfoot.

Material and methods. Study method was the analysis of medical documentation from two Orthopaedic Wards of Prof. Antoni Gębala Children’s Hospital of Lublin. Medical records of patients treated for congenital talipes equinovarus (IDC 10-Q66.0) between 2008 and 2013 were the study material.

Results. Results of the study show that in the analyzed period of time 310 children were hospitalized for clubfoot in hospotal. 39.35% (n=122) of the total number of patients were girls and 60.65% (n=188) were boys. The average age of patients was 3.69 years, (Me=1.09 years). Average age of girls was 4.17 (Me=1.35 years) and boys 3.89 (Me=0.83 years). The most numerous group consisted of infants up to 1 year (n=154; 49.68%).

Conclusions. Clubfoot affects boys twice as often as girls. Moreover, in the examined hospital the average length of stay for patients with clubfoot has decreased. The research reveals that the average hospitalization length in children with congenital talipes equinovarus is systematically decreasing. The study shows that the number of patients being admitted to the Children’s Orthopedics Institute of the Hospital is increasing while the number of patients with clubfoot remains on the same level.
Nursing care quality and post-operative wound infections
Authors: Kos Marek , Dziewa Agnieszka , Ksykiewicz-Dorota Anna , Drop Bartłomiej , Kos Michał
Published: May 2018

Introduction. The aim of the surveillance over infections is to define the critical points, lacks in knowledge of staff skills, as well as lack of equipment. It is aimed at preventing the same mistakes from being conducted all over again, instead of making those guilty suffer from consequences of their mistakes.

Aim. The authors aimed at assessing the quality of nursing care procedures in terms of preventing post-operative wound infections.

Materials and methods. The research was conducted in medical treatment, surgical and intensive care ward. A self-constructed questionnaire “Nursing care quality and prophylaxis of hospital-acquired infections” was used for the study. It was validated using the peer judges method.

Results and conclusions. The highest nursing care coefficient was noted in county hospitals ( x̅ = 94.5%), while the lowest was noted in clinical hospitals ( x̅ = 91.3%). It was concluded that there is a deficit in adherence to procedures related to post-operative wound treatment.
Assessment of the new Reimbursement Act functioning between January-November 2012 and its impact on pharmacies and pharmaceutical industry and oncological treatment
Authors: Winiarska Małgorzata , Matosiuk Dariusz
Published: May 2018

Introduction. The new Reimbursement Act introduced on 01.01.2012 aimed at improving the way the Polish healthcare system operates, as well as reducing and unifying the prices of medicinal products. The Act provides that the prices for reimbursed drugs are lowered and unified. Increase the transparency, increase the number of innovative reimbursed drugs and lowering the level of co-payments.

Aim. The authors analyze the influence of the new Reimbursement Act (introduced on 01.01.2012) over the way the Polish healthcare system works.

Material and methods. The contents of the Reimbursement Act (introduced 01.01.2012) were used as research material. A content analysis of the new Act (conducted between 2013 and 2014) and its impact over the pharmaceutical industry, drug wholesale and drugstores was analyzed.

Results. Some numerical data concerning retail margins, co-payments by patients, limit groups, reimbursed drug prices were showed in the study.

Conclusions. Unfortunately, the Act itself has many shortcomings, inconsistencies or vague entries that require urgent amendment. Hence, it had a totally different impact.
Pregnant women’s knowledge on early orthodontic prevention – a questionnaire survey
Authors: Szalewska Magdalena , Boryczka Monika , Kapica Anna , Lemejda Justyna , Łukasik Marta , Pietryka-Michałowska Elżbieta , Szymańska Jolanta
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Ensuring proper conditions for the development of the masticatory organ of the child can prevent or reduce the incidence of malocclusion.

Aim. The study aimed to assess the knowledge of mothers on selected elements of early orthodontic prevention.

Material and methods. A questionnaire survey was carried out among 234 pregnant women and women in childbirth from Lower Silesia, Lublin and Lubuskie voivodships. The survey included questions about demographics of mothers, such as age, place of residence, education level, and 10 questions on selected elements of early orthodontic prevention.

Results. The knowledge of mothers on the early orthodontic prevention is associated with the level of education and the place of residence - women with higher education and living in large cities have the greatest expertise in this field, although it is still inadequate in general population of women.
The type and duration of use of removable dentures in seniors over 65 years of age from Lublin in Poland
Authors: Kamińska-Pikiewicz Katarzyna , Bachanek Teresa , Chałas Renata
Published: May 2018

Introduction. Age-related tooth loss causes an increasing need for prosthetic treatment. Maintaining a healthy masticatory system, as well as proper speaking functions is one of the main goals for prosthetic rehabilitation of the elderly.

Aim. The authors aimed at checking what types of moveable dentures people over 65, residents of nursing and family homes tend to wear and how long do they do it.

Material and methods. Some 240 people over 65 were looked at - 117 were residents of nursing homes in Lublin, while another 123 lived in their own family home. The authors took the following factors into consideration: type of denture, and how long were the dentures used.

Results. It appeared that movable dentures were used by some 57.26% of nursing home residents and 69.11% of people living in their family homes. Residents used mostly full denture, both in maxilla and mandible, respectively 71.05% and 67.14%. Similarly, seniors living at home had worn mainly full maxillary denture in 50.00% of cases, and full mandibular denture in 44.44% of cases. The mean time of using maxillary and mandibular dentures was longer in seniors residing in nursing homes (maxilla - 7.24 years, mandible - 7.48 years) than in persons living with their families (maxilla - 5.39 years, mandible - 4.63 years).

Conclusion. The supply of dentures in both groups of seniors is unsatisfactory. Most of the examined seniors have used the dental prostheses for too long.
Using SSR Markers For Assessment Genetic Diversity And Detection Drought Escape Candidate Genes In Barley Lines (Hordeum Vulgare L.)
Authors: Gougerdchi Vahideh , Dezhsetan Sara , Ebrahimi Mohammad Ali , Sadeghzadeh Behzad , Savari Sona
Published: May 2018

Assessment of genetic diversity using molecular markers is one of the primary and important steps in breeding programs. In this study, genetic diversity of 52 barley lines evaluated using 68 SSR primer pairs and 47 primer pairs produced clear and polymorphic banding pattern. In general, 153 polymorphic alleles detected. The number of observed polymorphic alleles varied from 2 to 9, with an average of 3.26 alleles per locus. Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) ranged from 0.07 to 0.81, with an average of 0.45. In this research, SSR markers differentiated the studied lines efficiently. Using cluster analysis, studied barley lines divided into two groups. Genetic diversity was relatively corresponding with geographical origins, because the lines related to a country somewhat diverged from each other. Two-rowed Iranian and Chinese barleys classified in one subgroup. Also, most six-rowed barleys classified in one subgroup. Association mapping analysis was used to identify candidate genes for drought escape in barley lines and 16 informative markers were identified after which confirmation in other tests could be suitable for marker assisted breeding drought escape.
Effect Of Physical And Chemical Mutagens On Morphological Behavior Of Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum) CV. “Rio Grande” Under Heat Stress Conditions.
Authors: Akhtar Naheed
Published: May 2018

Given the importance to tomato production under heat stress conditions in hot climates of Pakistan, the objective of this research work was to study the influence of temperature and application of physical and chemical mutagens on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.,) CV. “Rio grande” Seeds were treated with chemical mutagen (Ethyl Methane Sulphonate) and physical mutagen (Gamma radiation). Plants were grown in open field conditions under day/night temperatures regimes at the experimental area of Department of Horticulture, faculty of crop and food sciences, PMAS-AAUR. The experiment was set twenty treatments and four replications in Complete Randomize Block Design. It is observed that by increasing dose of mutagens shows lethal effect and morphological parameters reduced significantly. But lower doses of EMS and Gamma radiation improve thermotolerance capacity significantly. Plants were investigated for different morphological parameters i.e Plant height, no. of leaves, leaf area, relative water contents of leaves, chlorophyll contents, cell viability (TCC Assay) and pollen germination. Among gamma rays 5Kr were the only dose which survived and bear fruits. Among EMS 4mM, 8 mM, 16mM performed better under heat stress conditions than other treatments.
Effects Of Seed Vigor On Growth And Grain Yield Of Maize
Authors: Ghassemi-Golezani Kazem , Dalil Bahareh
Published: May 2018

Reduction in seed vigor is a consequence of seed aging which may influence field performance of crops. Thus, a field study was conducted as RCB design with 6 replicates to evaluate the effects of seed vigor on maize (cv. Ksc 301) growth and yield. A sub-sample of maize seeds was kept as control and two other sub-samples were artificially aged for 9 and 12 days. So, three seed lots (V1, V2 and V3), with different vigor were provided and sown in the field. Mean emergence time significantly increased, but mean emergence percentage decreased as seed vigor increased. The lowest leaf area index (LAI), dry matter accumulation (DMA) and crop growth rate (CGR) were obtained for plants from the lowest vigor seed lot (V3). At the later stages of growth, the highest relative growth rate (RGR) was recorded for V1 plants, followed by V2 and V3 plants. Poor stand establishment and growth of plants from V2 and V3 seed lots led to yield loss by 23.7 % and 41.5 %, respectively. These results showed that production and cultivation of high vigor seeds are necessary to ensure satisfactory field performance of maize.
Appreciating Gratitude: Is Gratitude an Amplifier of Well-Being?
Authors: Gruszecka Eufrozyna
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between gratitude and certain components of well-being which are conducive to affirming life. Additionally, we also compared how experiencing joy impacts those components of well-being. A randomly chosen 1/3 of the participants was asked to recall an event from their past when they felt grateful. Another 1/3 was asked to recall an event from their past when they felt joy. The final 1/3 of the participants was the control group. Next, all participants filled in the Satisfaction With Life Scale. Then (taking turns) they completed the Social Ties Scale and the Social Trust Scale. Finally, all participants estimated the amount of beneficiary experiences and gratitude they had received in life. The results of the study indicate that both gratitude and joy enhance happiness, and that gratitude and joy play an important, although different in some respects, role as contributing factors to happiness. The results indicate a positive relationship between the balance in gratitude experiences and the examined aspects of well-being.
Brief Cognitive Monitoring in Multiple Sclerosis Patients in Latvia / Kognitīvo Funkciju Monitorings Multiplās Sklerozes Pacientiem Latvijā
Authors: Mekša Līga , Karelis Guntis , Vainšteine Lana , Svilpe Sandra , Gulbe Gundega , Gudreniece Anželika , Kalniņa Jolanta
Published: May 2018

Cognitive changes are common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The neuropsychological testing requires specialised trained staff, time-consuming expert analysis and complicated test result interpretation. An expert committee recommended the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS), which is optimised for small centres. We conducted the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) and Brief Visuospatial Memory Test (BVMT), for which the results were comparable with similar results in literature. Most MS patients showed decreased attention and processing speed, while visual memory was generally normal. Cognitive impairment occurrence is not strongly related to Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score.
Using Interactive Board and Communication in Teaching English at Lower-Secondary Stage of Elementary School
Authors: Dobrovolná Alena
Published: May 2018

The contribution brings part of the research results on using interactive boards in teaching English at lower-secondary stage of elementary schools in the Czech Republic. The whole research focused on ways of using this modern device, on types of interaction and mainly tried to find out whether there is sufficient space for developing communicative competence through oral interaction. Here mainly the part about forms of interaction is described.
Intercultural Education as an Imperative of Social Development
Authors: Baça Ferit
Published: May 2018

The imperative need of a social coexistence among different groups of people is the implementation of the intercultural education. In these circumstances, school is the most important place and factor for pupils and students as future citizens to take the first knowledge-based on society, life and coexistence in a given country. On the other hand, all social-cultural school courses should be reviewed in accordance with western visions which accelerate the pace towards a future world without borders, despite different races and cultures. Thus, the content of such courses, such as history, geography, drawing, music and literature should occupy more important new notions and information about intercultural education and it's role on a social development. Therefore, it is important for the given society, that all the schools' directors should pay more attentions on entertainments about cultural activities among pupils and students as future citizens. The focus of this paper is the role and importance of intercultural education for the development of a social society.
Revealing the Reasons Leading to Students' Drop-Out at the College of Dunaújváros
Authors: Marianna Szabó Csilla , Bacsa-Bán Anetta
Published: May 2018

In the strategy 'Europe 2020', EU claimed the aims to increase the ratio of graduates among 30-34-year old people, which means the expansion of the number of students in higher education as well as the decrease of dropouts. This double purpose is considered to be a big challenge both for countries and for higher educational institutes. It could be stated that parallel with the increase of higher education enrolment, supporting students who have already been admitted to higher education must be emphasized so that they could absolve their subject and take their degree.
The Impact of Pedagogical Agent on Learners’ Motivation and Academic Success1
Authors: Dincer Serkan , Doganay Ahmet
Published: May 2018

Pedagogical agent is generally described as educational programs that guide, motivate learners while encouraging them during learning by providing feedback. The tasks (informative, guiding, or friend, etc.) and types (human-like, cartoon character, audio, text, etc.) of these modules can be classified based on various variables. Although computer-assisted instruction software is commonly used as a teaching material, research on modules integrated on such programs is scarce. Studies in the field have revealed that such computer-assisted instruction programs increase motivation of learners. In order to keep motivation levels high, these programs need to be adopted depending on the individual needs. Therefore, it can be beneficial to integrate software designed that can be personalized. In this respect, the present study was conducted with secondary school students to identify the impact of pedagogical agent on learners’ academic success and motivation. For the purpose of the study, four groups were formed. The first group received education via fixed pedagogical agent, the second group had the option to choose among several pedagogical agents, the third group received the education without pedagogical agent and finally the last group received the same education through traditional (non-computer) way. This four-week program was introduced to students via MS Excel program and the data was gathered as pre- and post-test method. The findings have revealed that interfaces impacted motivation and accordingly academic success in a positive way. As a result of the study, it is suggested that learners should be provided programs that can be personalized depending on learners’ needs and preferences.
Some data on the behaviour of kites (Milvus milvus, Milvus migrans) nesting close to two active wind farms in Saxony, Germany
Authors: Busse Przemysław , Rząd Izabella
Published: May 2018

The main aim of this study was to evaluate how local pairs of kites behave in the vicinity of two wind farms located in the same region (Saxony, Germany) and at farms which are to be re-powered. We observed three pairs that had located their nests close to active wind farms (a few hundred to 1500 m from the wind farm). Special attention was focused on variation in the intensity of flights and its dependence on the local landscape and to active avoidance of existing wind turbines. Observations were made at the end of the breeding time, when the young were still in the nest and shortly after fledging. Despite the short observation periods, the results seem to show clearly how differentiated the flight patterns of these birds are in relation to the landscape features around the farm. The distance from the nest to the wind farm cannot be the only measure of the level of potential wind-farm-related danger to the birds nesting close to the farm site.

Distribution of flights is not random, but clearly concentrated on defined target hunting areas, while other directions are visited infrequently. In the case of both farms, the farm was rarely crossed by the Black Kites (9.9% of all flights) and very rarely (2.8%) by the Red Kites, and such crossing was observed only while the turbine rotors were not in motion or when the rotors were turning slowly (below 5 turns/min.). It may be advisable to conduct special monitoring of movement patterns at breeding time if kite nests are found close to the planned location of the wind farm.
Philosophical and Pedagogical Principles of Transnational Higher Education Development
Authors: Leshchenko Maria , Avshenyuk Nataliya
Published: May 2018

The philosophical and pedagogical principles of transnational higher education development in the second half of the XX - at the beginning of the XXI century are revealed based on the authentic scientific research sources and reflections of prominent scientists. Review of scientific works, devoted to the problems of education transnationalization, allowed concluding that in the late XX century the traditional relationship of pedagogy and philosophy changed under the influence of globalization and internationalization of education. On the basis of determinant analysis it has been found that postmodernism (J. Derrida, M. Foucault, J. Lyotard, R. Panvit) and postnonclassical science (H. Haken, I. Prihozhyn, V. Stepin) serve philosophical grounds for transnational higher education formation. The article proves that the “philosophy of global problems” as a set of ideas based on the objectivity of the total global relations, serves as the basis for building a modern educational paradigm that is reflected in the concept of global education. The fundamental idea of global education is to develop a holistic vision and human perception of the world, awareness of its place in the interconnected and rapidly changing environment, by filling content of educational process with human values. Practical implementation of these ideas is made by the introduction of multicultural education approach, critical pedagogy, global education and formation of intercultural educational content, which reflects the cultural and historical specificity of population.
Modern Approaches to Foreign Language Teaching: World Experience
Authors: Shumskyi Oleksandr
Published: May 2018

The problem of applying communicative approach to foreign language teaching of students in non-language departments of higher education institutions in a number of countries has been analyzed in the paper. The brief overview of main historic milestones in the development of communicative approach has been presented. It has been found out that “communicative era” in foreign language training of students is already over and the year 2000 has ushered in a “postcommunicative era” which is characterized by reconsidering the basic features of communicative approach and trying to review the generally accepted belief in the unquestionable effectiveness of this approach. It has been noted that communicative approach, based on interactive methods of teaching and creating the atmosphere of natural language environment at class, forms the doctrine of language training in the USA, Malaysia, Serbia, Croatia and in most of West European countries. In China and Saudi Arabia communicative approach to foreign language teaching is combined with traditional method in order to develop all kinds of speech activity. It has been substantiated that minimizing grammar component of students’ foreign language training in favour of forming only communicative skills has brought to fluent but grammatically incorrect speech. It has been proved that the effectiveness of foreign language teaching to a considerable degree depends on applying the integrated training system based on traditional didactics and communicative approach.
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is associated with 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure variability in type 2 diabetes and control subjects
Authors: Ciobanu Dana Mihaela , Bala Cornelia Gabriela , Veresiu Ioan Andrei , Mircea Petru Adrian , Roman Gabriela
Published: May 2018

Background and Aim: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has been associated with hypertension (HTN) and elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), but the possible implication of blood pressure (BP) variability in increasing hsCRP in T2DM are incompletely understood. We aimed to assess the association between hsCRP and BP variability during 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring in T2DM and healthy control subjects.

Material and Method: The cross-sectional study included data from T2DM patients with normal BP (n=9), controlled HTN (n=46), uncontrolled HTN (n=20), and healthy controls (n=11). HsCRP was assessed using ELISA technique. All subjects underwent 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring; BP variability was calculated using standard deviation.

Results: We found that hsCRP was associated with daytime and 24-hours systolic and diastolic BP variability. Higher hsCRP were observed in T2DM patients with uncontrolled HTN and high BP variability compared to the other three groups. In multiple regression analysis, hsCRP was predicted by daytime and 24-hour diastolic BP variability.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that high hsCRP was associated with increased ambulatory BP variability in T2DM and control subjects. The contribution of both hsCRP and BP variability to cardiovascular risk stratification in T2DM needs to be evaluated in prospective studies.
An Empirical Examination of the Effects of Personality Traits and Transfer Climate Factors on Transfer of Training & Motivation: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Khan Imran , Nazir Nazir
Published: May 2018

Personality has been considered an important factor influencing trainee efficiency & organizational productivity. Similarly, work climate factors have been recognized as primary influencers in post training context influencing productivity. But research concerning the impact of personality and work climate on trainees’ learning motivation has been very scant and mostly conducted in the western context. The present study was an attempt therefore, to extend this line of research in the Indian context involving educational sector of the State of Jammu & Kashmir. A sample of 517 teacher trainees was drawn for the present study using convenience sampling method. Results indicate that personality traits (i.e., conscientiousness, openness to experience, and internal locus of control) do not influence training transfer directly or indirectly, while, transfer climate factors do affect training transfer both directly as well as indirectly via learning motivation. The implications of the results are discussed and the limitations of the study are noted, along with suggested avenues for future research.
A Comparison of the Financial Characteristics of European and Asian Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Meric Gulser , Welsh Carol , Scarpa Robert , Meric Ilhan
Published: May 2018

Comparing the financial characteristics of firms in different countries has been a popular research topic in finance. However, general financial characteristics of European and Asian manufacturing firms have never been compared. In this paper, we undertake such a study with the MANOVA (Multivariate Analysis of Variance) technique. Our research uses all European and Asian manufacturing firms included in the Research Insight/Global Vintage database at the end of 2015. Our findings may provide valuable insights for financial managers and global investors. We find that Asian firms tend to have less liquidity risk but more bankruptcy risk compared with European firms. European firms have more efficient accounts receivable management and higher fixed and total assets turnover rates. However, Asian firms have higher inventory turnover and sales growth rates. Return on equity is not significantly different in European and Asian firms. However, Asian firms have significantly higher net profit margin and return on assets compared with European firms.
Professional and Transversal Competencies in the Accounting Field: Do Employers’ Expectations Fit Students’ Perceptions? Evidence from Western Romania
Authors: Nicolaescu Cristina , David Delia , Farcas Pavel
Published: May 2018

The changes that occur in the labour market due to the recent evolution registered in the field of accounting, led us to initiate a study in which we have as a purpose to analyse the perception that employers and students enrolled in the faculties for accounting from the Western part of our country have regarding the importance of the professional and transversal competencies when they get hired. The research tools used within this research are on the one side grounded on the quiz for data collection, and on the other side the ANOVA method for the analysis of the perception differences found in these two groups discussed upon. The results found in this work represent in the opinion of the authors an important reference mark for the university instruction of the young people who are about to enter the accounting profession, but also for the future employers who are about to interact with them.
The Impact of Big Data, Sustainability, and Digitalization on Company Performance
Authors: Șerban Radu-Alexandru
Published: May 2018

Nowadays companies are dealing with large amounts of data, not only for an important decision but also into their day-to-day activity. In order to handle properly these large volumes of data, from different sources without missing the opportunities, companies need to figure out how to manage big data to their advantage. Embracing the advantages of big data is not enough because in order to face the challenges of the business environment, investing in digital technology is no longer seen as giving a competitive advantage, is seen as a standard. Also in the path of evolution, the interest of companies (profit) on one side and the interests of society (social and environmental) on the other side should find a common point in order to pursue their interests in a way that will not affect future generations. Sustainability is the approach towards this future, which allows companies to grow and make profits, but at the same time provides benefits for the society.
Analysis of the multistage cyclic loading test on resilient modulus value64
Authors: Sas Wojciech , Głuchowski Andrzej , Soból Emil , Bąkowski Jacek , Szymański Alojzy
Published: May 2018

Analysis of the multistage cyclic loading test on resilient modulus value. Upon cyclic excitation of soil mass, two types of strain can be recognized, namely elastic and plastic one. Proper analysis of these two types of deformations can help engineers in designing more reliable structures. In this study, a multistage uniaxial cyclic loading in unconfined conditions was performed. Tests were performed in order to characterize strain response to repeated excitation. Soil sample under cyclic loading was recognized as exhibiting the symptoms of a plastic strain growth during the cyclic loading process with exponential manner, when compared to number of cycles. Soil in this study was reconstituted and compacted by using the Proctor method to simulate conditions similar to those affecting the road subbase. The soil was recognized as sandy clay. Results were analysed and a proposition of empirical formula for plastic strain calculation with the use of characteristic stress values was presented. The resilient modulus values were also calculated. The Mr value was within range from 45 to 105 MPa. The conclusions concerning the cyclically loaded soil in uniaxial conditions were presented.
Oleic Acid - Health Benefits and Status in Plasma Phospholipids in the Serbian Population
Authors: Arsic Aleksandra , Stojanovic Ana , Mikic Milena
Published: May 2018

Oleic acid has many beneficial effects on human health. One of the main dietary sources of oleic acid is olive oil. Non-Mediterranean European countries, including Serbia, have low habitual olive oil consumption, but other vegetable oils also contain different amounts of oleic acid. In infants and young children milk is the most important source of fatty acids, including oleic acid. Furthermore, fatty acid composition of plasma phospholipids reflects dietary intake and fatty acid metabolism. In patients with serious chronic diseases fatty acid status is altered independently on the intake. Here we reviewed status of oleic acid in healthy persons as well as in patients with different chronic diseases in Serbia.
La nouvelle seconde génération. Introduction au numéro spécial
Authors: Cattacin Sandro , Fibbi Rosita , Wanner Philippe
Published: May 2018

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Unequal Pathways. School-to-Work Trajectories for Children of Turkish and Western-Balkan Origin in Switzerland and Austria
Authors: Schnell Philipp , Fibbi Rosita
Published: May 2018

This paper investigates educational and occupational pathways of children of Turkish and Western-Balkan origin and of the majority population in Austria and Switzerland. Using a representative sample of 2186 respondents living in two Swiss and two Austrian urban areas, our results show that descendants of immigrants have less chances to follow a constant successful path from education to occupation in both countries, mainly because successful trajectories are determined by the parent’s socioeconomic status. However, young adults of Turkish and Western Balkan origin in Switzerland are more often upward mobile than the majority group. Altogether, our results indicate slightly greater chances for upward mobility among young adults in Switzerland in comparison to Austria.
Les trajectoires éducatives de la seconde génération. Quel déterminisme des filières du secondaire I et comment certains jeunes le surmontent?
Authors: Gomensoro Andres , Bolzman Claudio
Published: May 2018

Le destin éducatif de la nouvelle seconde génération en Suisse semble tracé. Ces jeunes sont orientés au sein des filières à exigences élémentaires ou étendues du secondaire I et ils obtiennent majoritairement des certificats professionnels. Cependant, à milieu social, type de filière et compétence scolaire égaux, ils sont plus nombreux que les natifs à emprunter les trajectoires de mobilité ascendante, menant à des formations générales de niveau secondaire ou tertiaire. L’analyse d’entretiens de jeunes albanophones originaires d’ex-Yougoslavie montre l’impact des aspirations élevées des jeunes et des familles, mais aussi l’importance de l’acquisition et de l’accès de ressources et informations clés qui permettent une mobilité ascendante.
Gehören wir dazu? Grenzziehungsprozesse und Positionierungen der zweiten Generation im Vergleich zwischen Luzern und Neuenburg
Authors: Duemmler Kerstin , Dahinden Janine
Published: May 2018

Statt wie üblich die Integrationsmodi der zweiten Generation zu untersuchen, nimmt der Artikel eine andere Perspektive ein und fragt, wie sich die zweite Generation gegenüber ethno-nationalen Grenzlinien positioniert und ob sie sich als zugehörig betrachtet. Anhand von Interviews mit 16 bis 19-Jährigen unterschiedlicher Herkunft aus den Kantonen Luzern und Neuenburg wird aufgedeckt, welche Positionierungen und Strategien sie angesichts von Grenzziehungen entwickeln. Der Vergleich macht insbesondere deutlich, wie die regionalen Kontexte ihre Positionierungen und Strategien kanalisieren. Unabhängig davon, ob sich die zweite Generation als zugehörig wahrnimmt, sind sie in Luzern durch Integrationsforderungen und in Neuenburg durch einen republikanischen Toleranzdiskurs geprägt.
Junge Menschen sprechen über die Einbürgerung: gesellschaftliche Positionierung und formale Staatsbürgerschaft im Übergang ins Erwachsenenalter
Authors: Mey Eva
Published: May 2018

Der Text basiert auf den vorläufigen Befunden aus einer qualitativen Langzeitstudie zur gesellschaftlichen Positionierung von Jugendlichen ausländischer Herkunft in der Schweiz. Er präsentiert drei wesentliche Grundmuster in den Haltungen der Jugendlichen gegenüber einer Einbürgerung in die Schweiz: Anspruch, Irrelevanz und stolzer Verzicht. Die unterschiedlichen Einbürgerungsstrategien werden in ihrer engen Verknüpfung mit der Selbst-Positionierung der jungen Menschen im sozialen Raum sowie als Strategie im Kontext restriktiver und ethnisierter Einbürgerungspolitik diskutiert. Die Deutungen und Strategien der Jugendlichen weisen zum einen auf Mechanismen der Reproduktion wenig privilegierter Positionen im (transnationalen) sozialen Raum über Staatsbürgerschaft hin, zeugen zum anderen aber auch vom Bedeutungswandel und -verlust der Institution Staatsbürgerschaft auf gesellschaftlicher Ebene.
Partner Choices of the Second Generation of Turkish and Former Yugoslav Origin in Switzerland: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Topgül Ceren
Published: May 2018

This paper explores the partner choices (exogamy, local endogamy, and transnational endogamy) of the children of Turkish and former Yugoslav immigrants, who share a comparable migration history in Switzerland, based on the Swiss TIES (The Integration of the European Second Generation) survey. The comparison of these groups puts Turkish youths’ partner choice (low exogamy and relatively high transnational endogamy) into a wider perspective. Moreover, the comparison allows to disentangle ethnic and religious affiliations in order to test hypotheses on the role of ethnicity and religion in partner choices. While ethnic endogamy prevails in the two groups under study, religious boundaries are not stronger than ethnic ones. The second generations’ desire for religious and educational homogamy appears to be a reason for transnational endogamy.
«Mir sagt man, ich sei diskriminiert, nicht integriert; und dennoch spreche ich so, als hätte ich Germanistik studiert.» «Uslender Production » als Kulturerzeugnis von Jugendlichen mit Migrationshintergrund
Authors: Preite Luca
Published: May 2018

Der Beitrag untersucht kreatives Potenzial, humoristische Performanzen und künstlerische Stellungnahmen der zweiten Migranten-Generation in der Schweiz. In den letzten Jahren finden sich zunehmend Künstler, die im Internet und darüber hinaus für Aufmerksamkeit sorgen, indem sie ihren eigenen Migrationshintergrund selbstironisch reflektieren. Die Jugendlichen spielen dabei mit stereotypischen, gesellschaftlichen Vorstellungen von Ausländern und Migranten, ohne ihre eigene Position genau aufzudecken. Der Artikel argumentiert dafür, dass die Rap-Musik der «Uslender Production» eine Reflexion des «Spektakels des Anderen» nach Stuart Hall darstellt und als selbstbewusste Selbstinszenierung der zweiten Migranten-Generation in der Schweiz verstanden werden kann.
From Religion to Dialectics and Mathematics
Authors: Achtner Wolfgang
Published: May 2018

Hermann Grassmann is known to be the founder of modern vector and tensor calculus. Having as a theologian no formal education in mathematics at a university he got his basic ideas for this mathematical innovation at least to some extent from listening to Schleiermacher’s lectures on Dialectics and, together with his brother Robert, reading its publication in 1839. The paper shows how the idea of unity and various levels of reality first formulated in Schleiermacher’s talks about religion in 1799 were transformed by him into a philosophical system in his dialectics and then were picked up by Grassmann and operationalized in his philosophical-mathematical treatise on the extension theory (German: Ausdehnungslehre) in 1844.
Cantor, God, and Inconsistent Multiplicities*
Authors: Thomas-Bolduc Aaron R.
Published: May 2018

The importance of Georg Cantor’s religious convictions is often neglected in discussions of his mathematics and metaphysics. Herein I argue, pace Jané (1995), that due to the importance of Christianity to Cantor, he would have never thought of absolutely infinite collections/inconsistent multiplicities, as being merely potential, or as being purely mathematical entities. I begin by considering and rejecting two arguments due to Ignacio Jané based on letters to Hilbert and the generating principles for ordinals, respectively, showing that my reading of Cantor is consistent with that evidence. I then argue that evidence from Cantor’s later writings shows that he was still very religious later in his career, and thus would not have given up on the reality of the absolute, as that would imply an imperfection on the part of God.
Ice-Sheet Dynamics Of Warta Glaciation (SAALE) In The Marginal Zone Of Knyszewicze Area, Northeastern Poland
Authors: Rychel Joanna , Woronko Barbara , Karasiewicz Mirosław T. , Szymczuk Paweł , Morawski Marcin
Published: May 2018

The paper presents a research on a marginal zone near Knyszewicze in the southern part of Sokółka Hills (northeastern Poland). Terminal moraine hills are arranged amphitheatrically in a lobal pattern. Dynamics of the Knyszewicze frontal ice-sheet lobe during the Saale Glaciation and successive stages of the marginal zone near the village of Knyszewicze were reconstructed based on sedimentary and geomorphological analysis, using a digital elevation model and morpholineaments. Three main phases of the Knyszewicze glacial-lobe activity were identified including accumulation of glaciofluvial deposits, advances of the ice margin and ice-lobe retreat. Moraine hills developed at a stable ice-lobe terminus, initially as short end-moraine fans with the following sequence of lithofacies Gh⇒SGh⇒Sh or Gm⇒Gh⇒Sh. Such a sequence indicates cyclic sheet-floods. During a small but dynamic advance of the ice sheet terminus, these deposits were moved forward and monoclinally folded, then furrowed with sloping faults due to horizontal pressure. Typical thrust-block push moraines developed in this way. Ice sheet advance took place when permafrost was present in the substratum and very high water pressure occurred at glacial terminus. Inside a lobal configuration of moraines, there is a rich inventory of glacial forms with a classic terminal depression in the central part. Based on this landform pattern, their shape, rhythm and glaciotectonic disturbances, the land relief may be referred to as a hill-hole pair. The structure of Horczaki Knoll, deposited on the sub-Quaternary tectonic structure, significantly contributed to a development of this marginal zone.
Intermediate Bronze Age in Southern Levant (4200–4000 BP) – Why Did Four Cities in Transjordan Survive Urban Collapse?
Authors: Bieniada Michał E.
Published: May 2018

The first urban culture of southern Levant collapsed and the first period of urbanisation of Canaan (Early Bronze Age I-III) terminated at around 4200 yrs BP. The Canaanites abandoned their walled cities, dispersed and underwent pastoralisation. However, the urban centres of southern Canaan were not destroyed. This fact may point to responsibility of the environmental factor and makes influence influence of anthropogenic factors uncertain, along with the most popular Amorite invasion/destruction hypothesis. A tremendous climatic change occurred at that time in many regions, affecting cultures and civilisations of the Ancient Near East and resulting in abandonment of cities, migrations and great civilizational changes. In southern Levant, virtually all cities were left in ruins with a mysterious exception in Transjordan where four cities: Aroer, Ader, Khirbet Iskander and Iktanu survived and existed throughout the period. Most probably when climatic conditions in Cisjordan excluded possibility of urban life, the ones in Transjordan conditions remained unchanged or altered in a very limited scale. It is now clear that after a period with quite humid and warm climate, the precipitation greatly diminished after 4200 yrs BP in a littoral zone of eastern Mediterranean. A part of Transjordan, probably due to presence of the Dead Sea that somehow created conditions that influenced precipitation, remained a climatic niche with decent rainfall that enabled concentration of population in and around big urban centres and continuation of urban civilisation. Warming in a littoral zone changed dew point temperature preventing formations of clouds above western slopes of Judean and Samarian Hills. Moist air, prevented from condensation was transported eastwards where it could reach ascending currents appearing over the Dead Sea. Masses of air with water vapour moving upwards could form rainy clouds in Transjordan.