bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the false ontological consensus
Authors: Mudyń Krzysztof , Kałużna-Wielobób lina
Published: May 2018

The objective of the research was to check whether False Consensus Effect (FCE), shown in much research, is also valid for ontological decisions. Test participants, faced with an ontological dilemma, made a choice three times, which of the 3 item set (Cracow City, Me myself, the Universe) refers to something most real. The research conducted first among psychology students (N=116), then replicated on mathematics students (N=126) and middle-aged people (N=106). Results: 1) All groups chose the Universe most seldom (4%-11% subjects), the remaining two “objects” were chosen with similar frequency, 2) FCE occurred in all groups and in reference to each choice, 3) with people who made inconsequent choices (16% of test participants), FCE was notably higher (p <.001) in comparison to people making consequent choices, 4) FCE with inconsequent people turned out to be higher (p <.01) even in comparison with “the smallest minority”, people who (consequently) chose the Universe.
Temporal Self-Extension: Implications for Temporal Comparison and Autobiographical Memory
Authors: Grabowski Adam , Broemer Philip
Published: May 2018

Research on temporal comparison has shown that people dissociate themselves from their past to attain a positive self view. Social comparison research has demonstrated that the distinctness of contextually activated information determines whether a recalled self exerts assimilation or contrast effects on the current self. However, hardly any study addressed individual differences. Also, very little is known about whether the ease or difficulty to date past events and experiences influences current self-judgments. We present a new scale capturing the degree of the current self time extension. Three studies support the notion that temporal self-extension determines how past selves are accessed and processed, regarding both the abstractness with which self-knowledge is retrieved and the experienced temporal distance to the past. These findings have important implications for temporal as well as social comparison processes.
Intrinsic Motivation Predicting Performance Satisfaction in Athletes: Further Psychometric Evaluations of the Sport Motivation Scale-6
Authors: Blecharz Jan , Horodyska Karolina , Zarychta Karolina , Adamiec Aleksandra , Luszczynska Aleksandra
Published: May 2018

The study investigated psychometric properties of the Sport Motivation Scale-6 (SMS-6), assessing intrinsic regulation, four extrinsic regulation constructs, and amotivation among athletes competing at a regional and national level. In particular, we tested the factorial structure of SMS-6, its short-term stability, and the associations of SMS-6 constructs with self-efficacy, self-esteem, motivational climate, and satisfaction with sport performance. Participants were 197 athletes (57.4% women), representing team (54.7%) and individual disciplines. The measurement was repeated at the three-week follow-up (n = 107). Results yielded support for the six first-order factor structure (three second-order factors). More autonomous forms of motivation were related to higher levels of self-efficacy, performance satisfaction, and taskoriented motivational climate in sport organizations. Sequential multiple mediation analysis showed that the association between general self-efficacy and performance satisfaction at a follow-up was mediated by introjected regulation and personal-barrier self-efficacy.
Chemical Composition of Scots Pine Bark as a Bioindicator of Environmental Quality in Riga, Latvia / Priežu Mizu ķīmiskais Sastāvs Kā Vides Stāvokļa Bioindikators Rīgā (Latvija)
Authors: Čekstere Gunta , Laiviņš Māris , Osvalde Anita
Published: May 2018

The chemical composition of pine bark was used for the determination of environmental quality in Rīga. Bark samples were collected at 54 sites in Rīga differing in vegetation and building area characteristics (urban forests, parks and cemeteries, dwelling houses, and streets and railway zones) and at 52 sites from rural areas in Latvia (background level). Concentrations of Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb, and pH was determined in the samples. The results showed significantly higher concentrations of chemical elements in pine bark collected in Rīga, compared to background levels: Fe and Cu concentrations three times higher, and other elements - up to 1.8 times. The highest element concentrations in Rīga were near streets (Sarkandaugava, Jaunmīlgrāvis, Daugavgrīva, Čiekurkalns, Imanta area, etc.). Element concentration and pH was significantly dependent on the distance from the closest street. The lowest element concentrations were found in urban forests (Jugla, Biķernieki, Beberbeķi) and parks and cemeteries (I Forest Cemetery, Jaunciema Cemetery). Mežaparks (forest), Sarkandaugava, Jaunmīlgrāvis, and Vecmīlgrāvis together formed the most polluted area in Rīga due to the close location near and downwind from the harbour.
Microbial Food Web Components as Potential Indicators of Urban Hydroecosystems / Mikrobiālās ķēdēs Komponentu Potenciāls Pielietojums Urbānās Vides Ūdeņu Ekosistēmas Kvalitātes Novērtējumam
Authors: Līcīte Vita , Boikova Elmīra , Botva Uldis , Grauda Dace , Buholce Linda
Published: May 2018

Assessment of the effect of urbanisation on biodiversity and ecological impact studies are focused on plants, birds, terrestrial arthropods, and relatively few studies have been on aquatic organisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the microbial food web components as potential indicators of the trophic state of two small natural lakes (Gaiļezers, Bābelītis), two artificial lakes or reservoirs (created after excavation activities before 20 years) and the Gulf of Riga seaside Vecāķi beach (littoral), all of which are located in the city of Riga or close to it. Analysis of samples was conducted from April til October 2014 by epifluorescense microscopy for pico and nanoplankton (DAPI staining), and by inverted microscopy (Lugol’s fixation) for planktonic ciliates. SYBER green for DNS staining was used to examine population structure in a qualitative way by the cytometre Facs Jazz FCM. The obtained results illustrate that the studied aquatic ecosystems have different impact of eutrophication: the mean seasonal trophic status index value was higher in Lake Bābelītis (5.22) than in Lake Gaiļezers (4.57), Saurieši reservoir (4.76) and Bolderāja reservoir (4.22). In Bolderāja reservoir, picoplankton density reached maximum development (192 thous.cells/mL). The nanoplankton consists mainly of autotrophic flagellates, and their abundance was positively related with increasing size structure groups. During seasonal succession stages, ciliates of the size group less than 30 μ are well presented and could be analysed by flow cytometry together with pico and nanoplankton. Bolderāja reservoir could serve as reference site against lakes Gaiļezers and Bābelītis due to less eutrophication impact.
Genetic Diversity of Mute Swan Population of the Riga Urban Area
Authors: Kolodinska-Brantestam Agnese , Boiko Dmitrijs , Grauda Dace , Krasņevska Nikole , Rashal Isaak
Published: May 2018

Mute swan Cygnus olor is the most abundant breeding swan species in Rīga and Latvia. Since manmade habitats are the preferred breeding habitats of this species - Cygnus olor is of particular interest in studies of urban biodiversity. The latest records show that 30-40 pairs breed annually in Rīga, 400-700 individuals migrate through the area, and 120-150 individuals stay over winter. The goal of our study was to determine the genetic variation of the mute swan population in Rīga. Blood samples were collected from 47 individual birds found in different sites in Rīga or elsewhere in Latvia. The universal retrotransposon based iPBS markers were used to estimate diversity. Three primers (2076, 2080, and 2415) amplified 64 DNA fragments; of these 18 (28%) were polymorphic. The average diversity index based on polymorphic markers for the studied individuals was 0.425. All individuals, with the exception of two pairs of individuals, could be separated by means of these markers. The grouping of individuals was not be associated with their sampling location, gender and age. The genetic diversity indexes were compared between these groups. The breeding individuals (including their cygnets) had bands not showing variation among breeding birds as compared to the not breeding ones.
Preliminary Studies on Microbial Biomass and the Microarthropod Community as Soil Health and Quality Indicators in Urban Grasslands, Rīga as an Example / Sākotnējie Pētījumi Par Augsnes Mikrobiālo Biomasu Un Augsnes Sīkposmkāju Sabiedrībām Kā Augsnes Veselības Un Kvalitātes Indikatoriem Rīgas Pilsētas Urbānajos Zālājos
Authors: Minova Sandra , Jankevica Līga , Salmane Ineta , Čekstere Gunta
Published: May 2018

Anthropogenic pollution is considered as a one of the main factors that affects soil in urban areas. In 2014, soil quality of grasslands in Rīga was determined. The aim of the study was to determine microbial biomass and describe microarthropod communities in soils of different grasslands in Rīga city and to assess their use as indicators of soil health and quality of the urban environment. Six sampling plots with different building characteristics, density of street and rail network and transport load, and potential impact of pollution were selected for studies. The substrate-induced respiration method was used for determination of soil microbial biomass. Soil invertebrates were collected in sampling plots. Soil Mesostigmata mites, Oribatida and Collembola were extracted from samples and counted. In total over 9300 soil microarthropod individuals were recorded, of them 4500 Collembola, 3400 Oribatida and 1400 Mesostigmata mites. Statistically significant differences in soil microbial biomass among sampling sites were observed. Soil microbial carbon content significantly increased in most of sampling plots from July to October. To obtain more precise results in the future some modifications and optimisation of the standard method based on indicators will be necessary.
Impact of Different Thymic Pathologies on the Clinical Course of Myasthenia Gravis: A Population Wide Study in Latvia / Aizkrūts Dziedzera Patoloģiju Ietekmeu uz Myasthenia Gravis Klīnisko Gaitu: Populācijas Pētījums Latvijā
Authors: Zieda Anete , Rāviņa Kristīne , Pelčere Lelde , Naudiņa Maruta S. , Kamša Inese , Kurjāne Nataļja , Ķēniņa Viktorija
Published: May 2018

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibody mediated postsynaptic failure of neuromuscular transmission. The thymus gland has a role in the pathogenesis of MG. The aim of this study was to determine (1) the prevalence of different thymic pathologies in the MG patient population of Latvia; (2) the potential impact of different thymus pathologies on the clinical course of MG; and (3) the effectiveness of surgical treatment of thymic pathologies in Latvia. The results showed that the most common thymus pathology among the patients with MG in Latvia is thymoma. Compared to the published data, the proportion of MG patients diagnosed with thymus hyperplasia in Latvia is very small. Thymus hyperplasia is uncommon among patients 60 years of age and older. MG onset for patients with thymoma is significantly later than that of patients with thymus hyperplasia. Almost all patients with thymoma or thymus hyperplasia develop a generalised form of MG. The presence of a thymus pathology does not significantly affect the electrophysiological test results, clinical symptom severity, frequency of disability or hospitalisation of the patients with MG. Thymectomy in patients with thymoma or thymus hyperplasia has no significant effect on relieving MG symptoms
Waterless Cleaning Compositions with Disinfection Properties: Efficacy and Environmental Aspects / Bezûdens Tîrîðanas Lîdzekïi Ar Dezinficçjoðo Iedarbîbu: Efektivitâte Un Apkârtçjas Vides Aspekti
Authors: Muter Olga , Dâvids Madars , Vecstaudþa Dagnija , Ðteinberga Vilhelmîne , Kukela Agnese , Segliòð Valdis , Kïaviòð Mâris
Published: May 2018

The microbial ecology of different indoor environments determines the human microbiome. Hence, cleaning and disinfection of indoor environments like hospitals, apartments, automobiles, etc. are of great importance. Nonaqueous surface cleaning preparations (SCPs) are often used for this purpose. A cleaning composition may contain the following compounds: primary surfactant, cosurfactant, solvent, cosolvent, organotropic (organic solubilizing) agent, hydrotropic (water solubilising) agent, water and salts, and special additives. In this paper, the efficacy of complex preparations is discussed, focusing on the chemical composition and testing methods. Particular attention is paid to quaternary ammonium compounds, i.e. surfactants with disinfection properties, which are known to act as antistatic agents, detergents, oil-in-water emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, and lubricants. Specificity of target microorganisms, physicochemical properties of surrounding media and treatment mode are the main factors affecting the efficacy of disinfection. Due to the enormous economic importance and massive worldwide use of surfactants and disinfectants, their environmental impact needs to be evaluated and controlled. Increased knowledge and better understanding of the antimicrobial capacity of disinfectants are essential to optimise sanitation procedures, to reduce costs, environment waste and to improve shelf life.
Evaluation Of The Impact Of Chemical And Biological Fertiliser Application On Agronomical Traits Of Safflower (Carthamus Tinctorius L.) / Íîmiskâ Un Bioloìiskâ Mçslojuma Pielietojuma Ietekme Uz Saflora (Carthamus Tinctorius L.) Agronomiskâm Pazîmçm
Authors: Janmohammadi Mohsen
Published: May 2018

In order to investigate the influence of biological and chemical fertilisers on morphological traits, yield and yield components of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), a field experiment was conducted in Maragheh (37°23' N; 46°16' E), in north western Iran, for one year in the 2014 growing season. The effect of seven treatments was evaluated: T1 - control (no fertiliser application), T2 - seed inoculation with P biofertiliser (contains phosphate solubilising bacteria; Pantoea agglomerans strain P5 and Pseudomonas putida strain P13), T3 - seed inoculation with N biofertiliser (contains Azotobacter vinelandii strain O4), T4 - foliar application of iron chelate, T5 - soil application of complete NPK, T6: foliar application of manganese chelate, and T7 - foliar application of zinc sulphate. The result showed that although application of N biofertiliser did not have a significant effect on the evaluated traits, P biofertiliser slightly improved grain yield. However, the application of complete NPK fertiliser improved most of the traits, compared to the control and biofertiliser treatment. The best performance was obtained by foliar application of manganese chelate and zinc sulphate. The results showed that micronutrient-deficiencies have to be managed to unlock the potential yield of safflower in semiarid production systems.
Busse’s flat orientation cage vs. Emlen’s funnel – compatibility, differences and conclusions
Authors: Busse Przemysław
Published: May 2018

This paper focuses on field practice using different types of orientation cages. The two orientation cage designs most commonly used in field work, i.e. Emlen’s funnel and Busse’s flat orientation cage, are described in detail and compared for compatibility of results, simplicity of use and time effectiveness. Apart from cage designs and field procedures (60-min nocturnal tests in Emlen’s funnel vs. 10-min diurnal tests according to Busse’s procedure), the standard data evaluation procedures are compared and discussed. The data used in the discussion were collected for four species of nocturnal migrants (the Reed Warbler, the Sedge Warbler, the Willow Warbler and the Whitethroat) at the Kalimok Bird Station (Bulgaria): altogether 141 individuals were tested in Emlen’s funnel in 2001 and 788 in Busse’s cage in 2001-2007.

The following conclusions were drawn: (1) Busse’s flat cage design and its standard procedures yield results fully compatible with those obtained using Emlen’s funnel and the associated procedures; this means full compatibility in terms of the directionality of tested birds in the diurnal and nocturnal tests; (2) the procedures compared have distinct differences in terms of constraints on the methods:

– Emlen’s cage is extremely stressful for the bird and should be avoided as much as possible in practice due to animal welfare concerns;

– Emlen’s standard procedure of testing the bird for 60 minutes is completely useless, as this is inefficient in terms of quality of results and causes more stress to the bird than is necessary;

– Busse’s 10-minute standard makes it possible to collect a vast amount of data (12 birds per hour and person) in real field work, even performed in wilderness areas;

(3) At the stage of evaluation of raw data it is essential to use evaluation tools which take into account the fact that raw data items show a high percentage of multimodal distributions, and therefore tools assuming unimodal distribution are unsuitable.
Do the turbinates play an important role in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome? – Our experience
Authors: Dumitrescu Nicoleta , Enache Raluca , Sarafoleanu Codrut
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND. Nasal obstruction may trigger obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and it is considered to be a cofactor in its pathophysiology. However, the relation between cause and effect still remains a matter of debate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS. 18 patients diagnosed with chronic hypertrophic rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome were included in the present study. All patients underwent nasal surgery as the single treatment for their sleep breathing disorders. Rhinomanometric (total nasal airflow, logReff, logVR) and polygraphic parameters (apnea-hypopnea index - AHI, snore flags index – SFI) were evaluated pre- and 2 months postoperatively.

RESULTS. There was a statistically significant difference between the values of the preoperative and postoperative total nasal airflow (p-value<0.0001). In case of AHI, there was a decrease in its value from 31.56 preoperatively to 30.03 postoperatively, but the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.937). The SFI, on the other hand, presented a significant decrease (p=0.05), from a mean value of 93.15 preoperatively to 56.02 after the surgery. The correlation of the total nasal airflow with AHI and SFI, revealed that nasal surgery had an important impact upon snoring characteristics (r=0.24) and less upon OSAS severity (r=0.21).

CONCLUSION. The nasal cavity obstruction contributes less to OSAS, but still represents a disorder that needs to be corrected in case of such patients. Turbinates reduction surgery may be applied in the treatment of OSAS and combined with palate and/or tongue surgery.
Bilateral infraorbital maxillary air cells: recess-derived non-Haller cells
Authors: Rusu Mugurel Constantin , Chirita Andrei Leonid , Sandulescu Mihai
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND. The infraorbital recess of the maxillary sinus can reach in front of the nasolacrimal duct to become prelacrimal recess. During a routine Cone Beam CT (CBCT) study of a male patient of 72 years old, there were bilaterally found infraorbital maxillary air cells (IMACs) resulted after the almost complete closure of infraorbital recesses of the maxillary sinuses. Only that on the left side was reaching in front of the nasolacrimal canal. The closure of each infraorbital recess leaded to a narrow draining passage opened in the terminal end of the maxillary infundibulum, thus proximal to the maxillary sinus ostium. On the left side, a small cell of the lacrimal bone was interposed between the IMAC drainage pathway and the nasolacrimal canal. On the right side, the nasolacrimal canal was communicating with the ethmoidal infundibulum. Such an anatomic variation in the infraorbital angle of the maxillary sinus can impede the endoscopic procedures which use the anterior lacrimal pathway.
Strategies of Higher Education Institutions Development in Great Britain
Authors: Komochkova Olga
Published: May 2018

The current stage of higher education sector transformation in Ukraine has been indicated. The study of foreign experience, namely of Great Britain, and the use of positive aspects of such experience have been justified. Information sources of Universities UK (Universities UK Strategic Plan 2013-2018; Efficiency and Effectiveness in Higher Education: A report by the Universities UK Efficiency and Modernisation Task Group; Annual Report and Consolidated Financial Statements of UUK) and The Strategic Plan 2009-2015 of Lancaster University have been studied. Vision, mission, functions,pressing issues, strategic aims of the Strategic Plan of UUK for the next five years have been presented. The achievements of UKK for 2013-2014 in accordance with strategic aims have been outlined. The actions of the organization aimed at providing British universities with various supports have been presented. The constituents of Strategic Plan of Lancaster University for 2009-2015, namely vision, mission, sectors of development (International, Teaching, Research and Impact, Finance and Organisation, the Lancaster experience) and consequently successfully achieved results have been presented. Positive aspects of British experience in strategic development of higher education institutions have been defined. Perspectives for further researches in this area have been outlined.
On the Relativistic Correction of Particles Trajectory in Tandem Type Electrostatic Accelerator
Authors: Minárik Stanislav
Published: May 2018

A constant potential is applied to the acceleration of the ion-beam in the tandem type electrostatic accelerator. However, not just one voltage is applied, but instead a number of applications can be made in succession by means of the tandem arrangement of high voltage tubes. This number of voltage applications, which is the number of so-called "stages" of a tandem accelerator, may be two, three, or four, depending on the chosen design. Electrostatic field with approximately constant intensity acts on ions in any stage.

In general, non-relativistic dynamics is used for the description of the ion transport in tandem accelerator. Energies of accelerated ions are too low and relativistic effects cannot be commonly observed by standard experimental technique. Estimation of possible relativistic correction of ion trajectories is therefore only a matter of calculation. In this note, we briefly present such calculation. Our aim is to show how using the relativistic dynamics modifies the particles trajectory in tandem type accelerator and what parameters determine this modification.
Repellence and attraction of Apis mellifera foragers by nectar alkaloids
Authors: Hroncová Z. , Havlík J. , Stanková L. , Hájková S. , Titěra D. , Rada V.
Published: May 2018

Plant secondary metabolites present naturally in nectar, such as alkaloids, may change the behavioural responses of floral visitors and affect pollination. Some studies have shown that nectar containing low concentrations of these secondary metabolites is preferred by honey bee foragers over pure nectar. However, it remains unclear whether this is caused by dependence or addictive behaviour, a simple taste preference, or by other conditions such as self-medication. In our choice experiment, free-flying bees were presented with artificial flowers holding 20% sucrose containing 0.5−50 μg ml−1 of one of the naturally occurring nectar alkaloids - caffeine, nicotine, senecionine, and gelsemine. Nectar uptake was determined by weighing each flower and comparing the weight to that of the control flower. Our experimental design minimized memorizing and marking; despite this, caffeine was significantly preferred at concentrations 0.5−2 μg ml−1 over control nectar; this preference was not observed for other alkaloids. All of the compounds tested were repellent at concentrations above 5 μg ml−1. We confirmed previous reports that bees exhibit a preference for caffeine, and hypothesize that this is not due only to addictive behaviour but is at least partially mediated by taste preference. We observed no significant preference for nicotine or any other alkaloid.
Influence of Glass Powder Size Sorting on Properties of Composite Systems
Authors: Dědičová K. , Valášek P.
Published: May 2018

Glass powder ranks among the secondary raw materials, which can be used in the interaction with polymeric materials. In the present experiment the polymeric/epoxy particle composite with different sizes of glass powder particles is described. Such utilization of recyclable materials is environmental-friendly and should be preferred. The size of particles forming the filler of the described composites is one of the key characteristics affecting the mechanical properties. Due to the properties of the systems filled with glass powder, these materials can potentially be used in agriculture (renovations, adhesive bonding, cementing, etc.). In the experiment, glass powder was dimensionally sorted through sieves. Three fractions of glass powder with particles size of 0−30, 30−50, and 50−90 μm were created and utilized, the average particle size being 18.7, 38.7, and 72.6 μm, respectively. The interaction of the 18.7 μm particles did not lead to a statistically significant decrease of shear strength values in the interval 0−20 vol.%. The presence of glass powder, however, in all cases decreased tensile strength.
The Need to Approach the Management of the Tourist Destination by the Central and Local Public Authorities in Romania
Authors: Nicula Virgil , Spânu Simona
Published: May 2018

In the medium and long term, priorities in the development of tourism aim to develop a complex tourist offer, making the most of the natural and anthropogenic resources existing in connection with the preservation of the environment and the heritage. On the long run, it will contribute to raising the living standards of the population, especially social categories with lower chances of reintegration into the labour market (people made redundant in industry, elderly people etc.). Implementation of the strategy at regional level must be achieved through an active partnership between Romanian public authorities, economic agents and private investors, with the involvement of the federation of employers in the sector and of the professional associations.
Arguments in Favor of Moving to a Sustainable Business Model in the Apiary Industry
Authors: Panța Nancy Diana
Published: May 2018

Today’s society faces major challenges in meeting future global food demands and solving biodiversity loss, and it quickly needs to find ways in addressing these issues. The places to look for solutions come from the economic sectors that employ the most powerful pressure on these issues such as agriculture. Apiculture, as a branch of agriculture is being more and more recognized as sustaining human life and contributing to sustainability. However, the sector records a progressive decline of honey bees. Therefore, a rapid restructuring needs to take place in agricultural markets, in general, as well as in apiary agribusinesses. Although important, technological progress is insufficient in providing the necessary changes to achieve long-term economic, social and environmental sustainability, which should be considered both within and between generations. Consequently, sustainable business models encourage sustainable development through a triple bottom line approach and provide an analytical tool for firms into assessing the different aspects that are combined in order to create value. Since literature has paid little attention to the sustainable development in the apiary agribusiness, the present paper aims to link the two using a business model perspective and bring arguments in favor of moving to a sustainable business model.
Romania and the Big Challenge of Implementing the Europe 2020 Strategy
Authors: Todericiu Ramona , Boanta Alexandra
Published: May 2018

The evolution and evolvement of the Europe 2020 strategy in each country are subjects, which should interest all European citizens. The investigation on this subject stems from two issues: firstly, the importance of knowing the direction in which Europe is going in the future, and, secondly the wish to assess whether this is the right direction. Unfortunately, due to several possible obstacles, such as level of development, not all countries have the ability to achieve performance in all fields. Romania, just like many other countries, is one example. Being one of the least developed countries, reaching success in implementing the Europe 2020 strategy is, for Romania, a difficult mission.
Prediction of free field heave using CW and CH indices
Authors: Niedźwiedzka Karina , Garbulewski Kazimierz , Lendo-Siwicka Marzena
Published: May 2018

Prediction of free field heave using CW and CH indices. In order to predict free heave in expansive silty clays two methods were applied: CLOD test and double-swelling methods. In both methods CW and CH indices are required respectively to determine the soil heave. The CW index is determined as a slope of straight line of shrinkage curve obtained with a use of CLOD test. In case of double-swelling method two oedometer tests were carried out to determine CH index: constantvolume and consolidation-swell oedometer tests. Comparison between heave values calculated using CW and CH indexes indicated slight differences.
The water needs of urban green areas
Authors: Przybyła Czesław , Kayzer Dariusz , Gulczyński Radosław
Published: May 2018

The aim of the research was to evaluate the irrigation needs of urban green spaces in terms of automatic irrigation system. For this purpose, four research stations: two on the surface of shrubs and two on the lawn were founded. The analysis included two vegetation seasons in 2009 and 2010. To estimate the water requirements of the analyzed surfaces a method based on water balance was used. After comparison of simulation result with instrumental results, difference between soil water reserves was calculated. Normalized mean square error (NRMSE) for the post of ornamental shrubs during the vegetation season in 2009 was 0.80, and 2.76% for the lawn. However, in the same period in 2010, it was 0.21% for ornamental shrubs and 1.54% for the lawn. The assessment of the irrigation system for the whole operating period was based on indicators of effectiveness and efficiency of irrigation. The performance indicator of irrigation ranged from 83 to 100%, while the rate of irrigation efficiency from 87 to 100%. To assess the relationship between the components of the water balance multiple linear regression model was used. The analysis takes into account the impact of the many independent features on selected dependent feature. For this purpose the impact of temperature, humidity, initial retention in a balance layer, irrigation doses and natural precipitation on the water supply in the soil profiles was analyzed. As a result of the analyzes the size of a single dose of irrigation, in order to maintain a certain level of humidity for different surfaces of urban green areas, can be determined.
The changes of surface and ground water level on the effect of regulated outflow
Authors: Grzywna Antoni , Kowalczyk-Juśko Alina , Jóźwiakowski Krzysztof
Published: May 2018

This paper aims to analyze the variability of the levels of surface and ground water in the Ochożanka basin. The depth at which the ground water table occurred was studied with reference to the adopted land drainage standards. The studies were carried out in 2009/2010–2014/2015 for natural and regulated water outflows. The analysis of annual total precipitation in the analyzed period some years were very wet (2009/2010 and 2013/2014), some of them were wet (2010/2011, 2012/2013), one year was dry (2014/2015) and one year was normal (2011/2012). The six-year average seasonal precipitation amounted to 593 mm, which was 66 mm higher than average precipitation recorded in 30 years. Under regulated outflow conditions the level of water in the river ranged from 55 to 77 cm. The level of water under natural outflow ranged from 18 to 49 cm. In the area with regulated outflow the average ground water level was 47 cm. In the remaining area of drainage system ground water level was 67 cm. Also, the dynamics of variance in the water level under natural outflow conditions was clearly higher.
Social privileges in the Second Polish Republic
Authors: Grata Paweł
Published: May 2018

The Second Polish Republic developed an advanced and, in many ways, modern system of social care; however, the services which the citizens were entitled to seemed to be privileges available only to a small part of the population. The origins of this situation are to be found in the specific social and occupational structure of the population, low industrialization rate and the modest financial capabilities of the state and local governments. These resulted in a limited number of people with access to social insurances, a limited scope of public health care, a selective nature of access to unemployment insurance or radical differences in access to social care. And it is this unavailability of the social offer which determines the consideration of those benefits in Poland as privileges rather than commonly available rights of the Polish citizens.
Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis – a Case Report
Authors: Vujanović Ljuba , Jovanović Marina , Golušin Zoran , Levakov Olivera , Petrović Aleksandra , Sekulić Jasmina
Published: May 2018

Indolent systemic mastocytosis is a benign form of systemic mastocytosis characterized by an abnormal proliferation of mast cells either in the bone marrow or in numerous tissues. Case Report: A 27-year-old female patient was admitted to our department due to urticaria which started a month ago. Before the skin changes appeared, our patient suffered from a toothache, so she took various painkillers (nimesulide, ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid, paracetamol). During skin examination, individual hyperpigmented macules on the trunk and lower limbs were observed as incidental findings. The patient reported having them for the last two years. Darier's sign was positive. Following the examination, she was admitted due to suspected urticaria pigmentosa. Laboratory Findings: erythrocyte sedimentation rate: 9 mm/h; complete blood count, urine, blood glucose, total and direct bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, urea, creatinine, and uric acid were within normal ranges. Electrolytes: sodium, potassium, chlorine clearance, total calcium and calcium ionized, osteocalcin, and crosslaps were within normal ranges as well. Fibrinogen: 5.57 g/l; 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid: 49.8 umol/dU (10.4 - 31.2). Bone densitometry, chest x-ray and upper abdomen ultrasound findings were normal. The suspected clinical diagnosis of urticaria pigmentosa was confirmed by skin biopsy. Histopathological examination of the bone marrow showed moderately increased cellularity (60 - 70%). All three types of blood cells were slightly multiplied. Focal infiltrations were found in the perivascular area, consisting of elongated, oval cells with abundant eosinophilic granular cytoplasm. The nuclei were regular, oval shaped with finely granular chromatin and inconspicuous nucleoli. No nuclear atypia was found. These cells are highly CD117-positive. This finding strongly indicated bone marrow infiltration in systemic mastocytosis. The diagnosis was based on ‘major’ and ‘minor’ diagnostic criteria. The recommended therapy included H1 and H2 antagonists and topical corticosteroids. Conclusion: Regular follow-up was recommended in order to prevent complications and malignant alterations.
The Flag Bearer of Slovenian Nationalism Knocked Out? The Rise and Fall of the Slovenian National Party
Authors: Chládková Lucie , Mareš Miroslav
Published: May 2018

This paper analyses the role of the Slovenian National Party (SNS) within the context of Slovenian political system and Slovenian nationalism and national identity. The development of the party is described and its politics is analysed. Special attention is paid to the issue of the so-called “erased” people (citizens from other former republics of Yugoslavia with permanent residence in Slovenia without Slovenian citizenship), which represents an important mobilisation theme of the SNS. The position of the SNS within the Slovenian and international extreme-right spectrum is explained.
Monetary policy change of the Central bank of Poland
Authors: Kraś Ireneusz
Published: May 2018

The National Bank of Poland is an institution which, in conjunction with the government is responsible for the implementation of country’s economic policy reinforces its democratic character. Provisions of its operation are governed by the Constitution of The Republic of Poland and by the Act on the National Bank of Poland. To this end, the objective of the present research is to analyse the proposed amendments in the Act on the NBP. The latter concerns the amendment procedures, term of office and the rotations and numbers of Monetary Policy Council. The remaining part of the analyses is dedicated to the issue of dismissal of a MPC’s member in conjunction with the prohibition of occupying other positions, the adoption of the NBP’s financial statements and the separation of instruments of monetary policy’s instruments for stability of domestic financial system. Introduced changes in the proposed draft reduce the independence of the NBP while making it more subject to the Cabinet. Following the result of further consultations on the draft of Act on the NBP, provisions which reduce the independence of the NBP shall be partially removed.
Mathematics and God’s Point of View1
Authors: Król Zbigniew
Published: May 2018

In this paper the final stages of the historical process of the emergence of actual infinity in mathematics are considered. The application of God’s point of view – i.e. the possibility to create mathematics from a divine perspective, i.e. from the point of view of an eternal, timeless, omniscience and unlimited subject of cognition – is one of the main factors in this process. Nicole Oresme is the first man who systematically used actual infinity in mathematical reasoning, constructions and proofs in geometry.
Between Theology and Mathematics. Nicholas of Cusa’s Philosophy of Mathematics
Authors: Murawski Roman
Published: May 2018

The paper is devoted to the philosophical and theological as well as mathematical ideas of Nicholas of Cusa (1401–1464). He was a mathematician, but first of all a theologian. Connections between theology and philosophy on the one side and mathematics on the other were, for him, bilateral. In this paper we shall concentrate only on one side and try to show how some theological ideas were used by him to answer fundamental questions in the philosophy of mathematics.
Theological Underpinnings of the Modern Philosophy of Mathematics.
Authors: Shaposhnikov Vladislav
Published: May 2018

The study is focused on the relation between theology and mathematics in the situation of increasing secularization. My main concern in the second part of this paper is the early-twentieth-century foundational crisis of mathematics. The hypothesis that pure mathematics partially fulfilled the functions of theology at that time is tested on the views of the leading figures of the three main foundationalist programs: Russell, Hilbert and Brouwer.
Analysis of the suitability of Polish soil texture classification for estimating soil water retention and hydraulic properties
Authors: Kozłowski Michał , Komisarek Jolanta
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study was to examine whether the Polish soil textural classification is useful for evaluation of soil water retention and hydraulic properties and, furthermore, for determining which textural classes are characterized by the highest diversity of soil water retention and hydraulic properties. The texture triangle was divided into a 1% grid of particle-size classes resulting in 5151 different data points. For each data point, soil water retention parameters and saturated hydraulic conductivity were obtained using the ROSETTA program. The silt classes showed the highest uncertainty in the estimation of the saturated water content based on the soil texture. These classes are characterized by high variations of saturated water content within the class. Estimations of field capacity and permanent wilting point on the basis of textural classes are encumbered with highest errors for gp, pg, pl and pyg soils, which are characterized by the highest values of coefficient of variation. Saturated soil hydraulic conductivity is better classified into homogeneous classes by the Polish texture classes than by the clusters obtained by the k-means cluster analysis based on the soil hydraulic and retention properties. Soil water retention parameters are better classified into homogeneous groups by the k-means cluster analysis than by the traditional textural classes. Cluster analysis using the k-means can be helpful for grouping similar soils from the point of view of their retention properties.
Moral Reasoning in Sport: Validation of the Portuguese Version of the RSBH Value-Judgement Inventory in Adolescents
Authors: Calmeiro Luis , Stoll Sharon K. , Davis Paul
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of the Portuguese version of the Rudd Stoll Beller Hahm Value-judgement Inventory (RSBHVI) in a sample of adolescents. The RSBHVI, which measures moral and social reasoning, was translated using a back translation method. A sample of 238 10th to 12th grade high school students (age mean value 16.93 years, s = 1.34) completed the Portuguese versions of RSBH, and the Task and Ego-orientation Questionnaire. Partial support for the original structure of the moral reasoning scale, but not the social reasoning scale, was found. Females, and non-athletes and individual sport athletes scored significantly higher than males and team sport athletes in moral reasoning, respectively. Moral reasoning was negatively correlated with ego-orientation (r = −30; p <. 001) and uncorrelated with task-orientation (r = .10, p > .05). Participants who were low-ego scored higher in moral reasoning than those who were high-ego. It is suggested that decreasing levels of ego-orientation may be necessary to improve athletes’ moral reasoning.
Coaching Behaviors and Athlete Motivation: Female Softball Athletes’ Perspectives
Authors: Buning Megan M. , Thompson Melissa A.
Published: May 2018

Perspectives of female collegiate softball athletes (n = 41) attending universities (n = 25) in the United States classified as National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I teams, were examined in this study. Using Self-determination theory (SDT; Ryan & Deci, 2000) as a guide, structured interviews were conducted to assess athletes’ perspectives of head coach behaviors that influenced competence and motivation. Content analysis followed existential phenomenological interpretation methods and revealed three primary themes that influenced motivation: athletes’ perceived competence, coach-related factors (e.g., behaviors, strategies), and coach-athlete communication. Athletes acknowledge the head coach was a major influence on perceptions of competence. Perceptions of coach-athlete communication (including verbal communication) were the greatest influence on athlete motivation. Athletes were more motivated to perform when the head coach’s communication was clear and direct. Athletes’ motivation was most negatively influenced when the coach avoided communication or ignored athletes after a performance attempt. These findings are further explored as they relate to coaching interventions.
Laurence Housman’s The Moon-Flower and Victorian Mystic Imagination
Authors: Wieliczko-Paprota Emilia
Published: May 2018

The paper explores the theme of mysticism in Laurence Housman’s fairy tale “The Moon-Flower” (1895). It presents the main assumptions of a Victorian inner journey toward a mystical union and analyses symbols which construct the inner landscape which undergoes a mystic transformation. The author attempts to show the metamorphosis of the fairy tale’s main characters and identify its roots in both fairy tale and religious traditions. It is argued that Victorian fairy tales reflect a credible quintessence of the universe. The retold tales of an archetypical quest full of powerful symbols uncover the sublime world hidden under the dull reality. Hence, “The Moon-Flower” is believed to tell the story of inner transformation and open the doors to the myriad stories which were told before and create countless possibilities of interpretation.
Misfits of War: First World War Nurses in the Daughters of Mars by Thomas Keneally
Authors: Branach-Kallas Anna
Published: May 2018

The article is an analysis of the representation of Australian nurses in Thomas Keneally 2012 First World War novel, The Daughters of Mars. Inspired by rigorous research, Keneally fictionalizes the lives of two nursing sisters in the Middle East, on a hospital ship in the Dardanelles, as well as in hospitals and casualty clearing stations on the Western Front. His novel thus reclaims an important facet of the medical history of the First World War. The author of the article situates her analysis in the context of historical research on the First World War and the Australian Anzac myth, illuminating the specifically Australian elements in Keneally’s portrait of the Durance sisters. She demonstrates that The Daughters of Mars celebrates the achievements of “Anzac girls”, negotiating a place for them in the culture of commemoration. Yet, at the same time, Keneally attempts to include his female protagonists in the “manly” world of Anzac values, privileging heroism over victimization. Consequently, they become “misfits of war”, eagerly accepting imperial and nationalist ideologies. Thus, in a way characteristic of Australian First World War literature, The Daughters of Mars fuses the tropes of affirmation and desolation.
Between Anzac Day and Waitangi Day
Authors: Czerwińska Anna
Published: May 2018

This paper discusses the historical background and significance of the two most important national holidays in New Zealand: Waitangi Day and Anzac Day. Waitangi Day is celebrated on the 6th February and it commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between British representatives and a number of Māori chiefs in 1840. Following the signing of the treaty New Zealand became effectively a British colony. Anzac Day is celebrated on 25thApril, i.e., on the anniversary of the landing of soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) on the Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey in 1915, during World War One. There are three major differences between these two holidays: the process of those days becoming national holidays, the level of contestation, and the changing messages they have carried. The present study analyzes the national discourse around Anzac Day and Waitangi Day in New Zealand, and attempts to reveal how the official New Zealand government rhetoric about national unity becomes deconstructed. The following analysis is based on a selection of online articles from the New Zealand Herald and Stuff published in Auckland and Wellington, respectively. Both cities are populated by multi-ethnic groups, with Auckland featuring the largest Māori population.