bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Record Of Oenothera Villosa (Onagraceae) In Poland
Authors: Pliszko Artur , Woźniak-Chodacka Monika
Published: May 2018

The paper presents data on a new locality of Oenothera villosa in north-eastern Poland. The species was discovered in the western part of Suwałki in 2013. Two individuals of this rare alien species were found growing in the former sand and gravel pit, where the town dwellers occasionally dump the garden waste. Distribution map of O. villosa in Poland, based on the ATPOL cartogram method, is provided.
Wireless Multimedia Sensor Network Image De-Noising via a Detail-Preserving Sparse Model
Authors: Cui Zhi , Cui Xian-pu
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we propose a Detail-Preserving Sparse Model (DPSM) for de-noising of images that are usually interfered by noise on the Wireless Multimedia Sensor Network (WMSN). Specifically, based on the Structural SIMilarity (SSIM), the DPSM first incorporates a structural-preserving constraint, which enables the structure in the reconstructed image to be close to the ideal no-noise image. In addition, the DPSM adopts a residual ratio as the stopping condition of the sparse solution algorithm (e.g., Orthogonal Matching Pursuit), which enables the structures to be reconstructed under high noise conditions. The experimental results on several WMSN images have demonstrated the superiority of the proposed DPSM method over several well-known de-noising approaches in terms of PSNR and SSIM.
Multi-Stage Encoding Scheme for Multiple Audio Objects Using Compressed Sensing
Authors: Yang Ziyu , Jia Maoshen , Wang Wenbei , Zhang Jiaming
Published: May 2018

Object-based audio techniques have become common since they provide the flexibility for personalized rendering. In this paper a multi-stage encoding scheme for multiple audio objects is proposed. The scheme is based on intra-object sparsity. In the encoding phase the dominant Time Frequency (TF) instants of all active object signals are extracted and divided into several stages to form the multistage observation signals for transmission. In the decoding phase the preserved TF instants are recovered via Compressed Sensing (CS) technique, and further used for reconstructing the audio objects. The evaluations validated that the proposed encoding scheme can achieve scalable transmission while maintaining perceptual quality of each audio object.
Genetic Algorithm Based Clustering for Large-Scale Sensor Networks
Authors: Lin Hai , Kong Ruoshan , Liu Jiali
Published: May 2018

Despite the success of various clustering algorithms for Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), there are few works that consider the interference between clusters. Obviously, interference-free clustering makes the communication more efficient and achieves energy saving. In this paper we propose a new clustering method for large-scale sensor networks. With this method the network is partitioned into clusters. Intra-cluster communication in a cluster has no interference by its neighbor clusters. Moreover, the proposed clustering is based on a Genetic Algorithm (GA), which can achieve optimal performance in terms of the number of isolated nodes. This is demonstrated by the simulation analysis.
Objectification of Modulus Elasticity of Foam Concrete Poroflow 17-5 on the Subbase Layer
Authors: Hájek Matej , Decký Martin , Scherfel Walter
Published: May 2018

Principles of sustainable development create the need to develop new building materials. Foam concrete is a type of lightweight concrete that has many advantages compared to conventional building materials, for example low density and thermal insulation characteristics. With current development level, any negatively influencing material features are constantly eliminated as well. This paper is dealing with substitution of hydraulically bound mixtures by cement foam concrete Poroflow 17-5. The executed assessment is according to the methodology of assessing the existing asphalt pavements in Slovak Republic. The ex post calculation was used to estimate modulus range for Poroflow 17-5 based on the results of static load tests conducted using the Testing Experiment Equipment.
Forest Management as an Element of Environment Development
Authors: Jaszczak Roman , Gołojuch Piotr , Wajchman-Świtalska Sandra , Miotke Mariusz
Published: May 2018

The implementation of goals of modern forestry requires a simultaneous consideration of sustainable development of forests, protection, needs of the environment development, as well as maintaining a balance between functions of forests. In the current multifunctional forest model, rational forest management assumes all of its tasks as equally important. Moreover, its effects are important factors in the nature and environment protection. The paper presents legal conditions related to the definitions of forest management concepts and sustainable forest management. Authors present a historical outline of human’s impact on the forest and its consequences for the environment. The selected aspects of forest management (eg. forest utilization, afforestation, tourism and recreation) and their role in the forest environment have been discussed.
Numerical Analysis of Prefabricated Steel-Concrete Composite Floor in Typical Lipsk Building
Authors: Lacki Piotr , Kasza Przemysław , Derlatka Anna
Published: May 2018

The aim of the work was to perform numerical analysis of a steel-concrete composite floor located in a LIPSK type building. A numerical model of the analytically designed floor was performed. The floor was in a six-storey, retail and service building. The thickness of a prefabricated slab was 100 mm. The two-row, crisscrossed reinforcement of the slab was made from φ16 mm rods with a spacing of 150 x 200 mm. The span of the beams made of steel IPE 160 profiles was 6.00 m and they were spaced every 1.20 m. The steelconcrete composite was obtained using 80×16 Nelson fasteners. The numerical analysis was carried out using the ADINA System based on the Finite Element Method. The stresses and strains in the steel and concrete elements, the distribution of the forces in the reinforcement bars and cracking in concrete were evaluated. The FEM model was made from 3D-solid finite elements (IPE profile and concrete slab) and truss elements (reinforcement bars). The adopted steel material model takes into consideration the plastic state, while the adopted concrete material model takes into account material cracks.
Preliminary Analysis of the Aluminiumtimber Composite Beams
Authors: Szumigała Maciej , Chybiński Marcin , Polus Łukasz
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a new type of composite structures - aluminium-timber beams. These structures have an advantage over other existing composite structures, because they are lighter. However, their application may be limited due to the high price of aluminium alloys. The authors of this article made an attempt to calculate the load-bearing capacity of an aluminium-timber beam.
An Analysis of the Load-Bearing Capacity of Timber-Concrete Composite Beams with Profiled Sheeting
Authors: Szumigała Maciej , Szumigała Ewa , Polus Łukasz
Published: May 2018

This paper presents an analysis of timber-concrete composite beams. Said composite beams consist of rectangular timber beams and concrete slabs poured into the steel sheeting. The concrete slab is connected with the timber beam using special shear connectors. The authors of this article are trying to patent these connectors. The article contains results from a numerical analysis. It is demonstrated that the type of steel sheeting used as a lost formwork has an influence on the load-bearing capacity and stiffness of the timber-concrete composite beams.
Application of Classical Land Surveying Measurement Methods for Determining the Vertical Displacement of Railway Bridges
Authors: Gawronek Pelagia , Makuch Maria
Published: May 2018

The classical measurements of stability of railway bridge, in the context of determining the vertical displacements of the object, consisted on precise leveling of girders and trigonometric leveling of controlled points (fixed into girders' surface). The construction elements, which were measured in two ways, in real terms belonged to the same vertical planes. Altitude measurements of construction were carried out during periodic structural stability tests and during static load tests of bridge by train. The specificity of displacement measurements, the type of measured object and the rail land surveying measurement conditions were determinants to define methodology of altitude measurement. The article presents compatibility of vertical displacements of steel railway bridge, which were developed in two measurement methods. In conclusion, the authors proposed the optimum concept of determining the vertical displacements of girders by using precise and trigonometric leveling (in terms of accuracy, safety and economy of measurement).
Systemic treatment of Krukenberg tumors
Authors: Kolak Agnieszka , Lozinski Michal , Mandziuk Slawomir
Published: May 2018

Of all ovarian tumors with distinct biological features, 10-25% are secondary ovarian tumors. Among the most common cancers that cause ovarian metastasis are breast cancer, colorectal cancer, endometrium, as well as gastric and lateral cancer. Krukenberg tumors remain asymptomatic until the tumor reaches a certain size, as in the case of primary ovarian cancer. Symptoms are non-specific: abdominal pain (42%), postmenopausal bleeding (18%), weight loss (6%) and an increasing abdominal girth (15%). Diagnostic procedures should include physical examination, basic blood and biochemistry tests, radiographic imaging and endoscopy. There are currently no uniform guidelines to be followed in order to treat this cancer. However, the survival rate of selected subgroups of patients may be enhanced by means of cytoreductive surgery (performable among patients with good general health condition), where the metastases are limited only to the ovaries, where the primary tumor is derived from the colorectal cancer, and where there is the absence or minimal residual disease. It is still controversial to use adjuvant chemotherapy following the metastasectomy of Krukenberg tumors. Although this type of treatment seems to provide a survival benefit, there are currently no randomized prospective trials available so as to confirm or deny. Future research should, therefore, be focused on the potentially synergistic effect of surgery and perioperative administration of cytotoxic therapies targeted at high response rates. Studies on new molecularly targeted drugs can also be beneficial.
Gastric cancer with high risk of intraperitoneal progression: clinical course and current treatments
Authors: Yarema Roman
Published: May 2018

Locally advanced gastric cancer with a high risk of intraperitoneal progression is characterized by poor prognosis. After radical surgery, most patients die during the first two years post-operation as a result of disease progression. The prevailing type of progression and the leading cause of death in patients with gastric cancer is implantation metastasis.

The main risk factors for peritoneal carcinomatosis in such patients include: gastric tumor invasion into serosa, the presence of tumor cells in peritoneal washings, the largeness of the tumor as accompanied by extensive serous lesions, infiltrative type of tumor growth, histological variants of gastric cancer prone to implantation metastasis and metastatic lesions in regional lymph nodes. Systemic chemotherapy does not provide effective eradication of subclinical peritoneal carcinomatosis in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer.

The vast majority of patients who suffer from locally advanced gastric cancer and run a high risk of implantation metastasis are characterized by subclinical peritoneal dissemination at primary diagnosis, which means a rapidly fatal prognosis for such patients. In recent years, however, the paradigm of treatment of locally advanced gastric cancer has changed: a combination of surgery and adjuvant hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is used increasingly, and presents an alternative to the previously accepted surgery only approach. It is also likely to increase the survival rate.
Surgical treatment of gastric carcinoma with ovarian metastases
Authors: Olesinski Tomasz
Published: May 2018

Ovarian metastases from extragenital neoplasms are rare. The prevalent sites of the primary tumors were the breast, colorectum and the stomach. The Krukenberg tumor (KT) is defined as a gastrointestinal cancer which metastasized to the ovaries. Metastasis to the ovary may appear at the time of diagnosis of the primary tumor (synchronous) or during observation (metachronous). Common clinical presentations are abdominal distention, pain, palpable mass, bloating, ascites or pain during sexual intercourse. Diagnosis can be made by ultrasound examinations, CT or EMR scans, laparotomy and/or a biopsy of the ovary. The current standard treatment for patients with metastatic gastric cancer is systemic chemotherapy, however, treatment strategy for KTs from gastric cancer has not been clearly established and surgical treatment is considered mainly for metachronous tumors. The prognosis of patients with ovarian metastasis of gastric cancer origin is poorer compared with that of other primary tumors. Although the results of cytoreductive surgery – especially in combination with modern chemotherapy – seems to be promising, the optimal therapeutic strategies for such patients requires further prospective studies.
Data on the quality of life after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal malignancies: does it concern patients with gastric cancer?
Authors: Skierucha Malgorzata , Polom Karol , Rawicz-Pruszynski Karol , Mielko Jerzy , Sitarz Robert , Maciejewski Ryszard , Roviello Franco , Polkowski Wojciech
Published: May 2018

Introduction.So far there are no reports devoted exclusively to the quality of life after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in metastatic gastric cancer. Current literature concerning this issue was, thus, reviewed in order to: 1) search for such data concerning metastatic gastric cancer; 2) assess if the latest reviews evenly pertain to all peritoneal surface malignancies; and 3) conclude if they are a reliable source of data for patients with metastatic gastric cancer.

Materials and Methods.The electronic PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were retrieved for studies concerning the influence of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy on quality of life in patients with metastatic gastric cancer and regardless of initial diagnosis. The data on the number of patients with particular tumours were analysed and the results were presented in the form of a table.

Results.Approximately half of all patients encompassed by the reviews had a form of primary peritoneal surface malignancies. Within peritoneal metastases, the most numerous were colorectal (21-24%) and ovarian cancers (5-15%). Gastric cancers and sarcomas were the smallest defined subgroups (4% each).

Conclusions.The promising outcomes in quality of life after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in primary peritoneal surface malignancies might differ from rarely reported ones in metastatic gastric cancer. The problem needs further, gastric cancer-devoted investigations.
Experimental Study On Thermal Wave Type Adsorption Refrigeration System Working On A Pair Of Activated Carbon And Methanol
Authors: Grzebielec Andrzej , Rusowicz Artur , Laskowski Rafał
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to examine the efficiency of the thermal wave type adsorption refrigerating equipment working on a pair of activated carbon and methanol. Adsorption units can work in trigeneration systems and in applications driven by waste heat. They can be built also as a part of hybrid sorption-compressor systems, and they are very popular in solar refrigeration systems and energy storage units. The device examined in this study operates in a special mode called thermal wave. This mode allows to achieve higher efficiency rates than the normal mode of operation, as a significant contributor to transport heat from one to the other adsorber. To carry out the experiment a test bench was built, consisting of two cylindrical adsorbers filled with activated carbon, condenser, evaporator, oil heater and two oil coolers. Thermal oil circulation was responsible for providing and receiving heat from adsorbers. In order to perform the correct action a special control algorithm device was developed and implemented to keep the temperature in the evaporator at a preset level. The experimental results show the operating parameters changes in both adsorbers. Obtained COP (coefficient of performance) for the cycle was 0.13.
Optimisation Of Process Parameters In High Energy Mixing As A Method Of Cohesive Powder Flowability Improvement
Authors: Leś Karolina , Kowalski Karol , Opaliński Ireneusz
Published: May 2018

Flowability of fine, highly cohesive calcium carbonate powder was improved using high energy mixing (dry coating) method consisting in coating of CaCO3 particles with a small amount of Aerosil nanoparticles in a planetary ball mill. As measures of flowability the angle of repose and compressibility index were used. As process variables the mixing speed, mixing time, and the amount of Aerosil and amount of isopropanol were chosen. To obtain optimal values of the process variables, a Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) was applied. To match the RSM requirements it was necessary to perform a total of 31 experimental tests needed to complete mathematical model equations. The equations that are second-order response functions representing the angle of repose and compressibility index were expressed as functions of all the process variables. Predicted values of the responses were found to be in a good agreement with experimental values. The models were presented as 3-D response surface plots from which the optimal values of the process variables could be correctly assigned. The proposed, mechanochemical method of powder treatment coupled with response surface methodology is a new, effective approach to flowability of cohesive powder improvement and powder processing optimisation.
Extinction of Lasiommata petropolitana (Fabricius, 1787) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) in the Czech Republic: a case of habitat loss at a range margin
Authors: Spitzer Lukáš , Beneš Jiří , Konvička Martin
Published: May 2018

Lasiommata petropolitana is a boreomontane butterfly, declining in Central Europe and not recorded in the Czech Republic since 1975. Based on revision of all existing archival records and results of recent targeted surveys in mountainous regions of East Moravia, area of its past occurrence, we document its gradual retreat and ultimate regional extinction. The historical range, marginal with respect to contiguous distribution along the Carpathian mountain chain, included both foothills and higher elevations of Bílé Karpaty, Hostýnské Vrchy, Javorníky, Moravskoslezské Beskydy and Vsetínské Vrchy Mts; pre-1950 records document also a past occurrence at calcareous bedrock localities in Brno environs. Other past lowland records (Oslava valley, Olomouc, Znojmo) were due to misidentifications. Within the historical Czech range, the butterfly inhabited pastures with exposed calcareous, flysh or sandstone bedrock, maintained by traditional grazing. The decline of the species proceeded from lower elevations and foothills towards mountain ridges. The higher elevation sites were encroached by successional changes, or intentionally afforested, with post-war decline of mountain grazing. This development went largely unnoticed by conservation authorities, and represents a loss of mountain butterfly from marginal parts of its range.
Alternative Possibilities, Volitional Necessities, and Character Setting
Authors: Matheson Benjamin
Published: May 2018

Conventional wisdom suggests that the power to do otherwise is necessary for being morally responsible. While much of the literature on alternative possibilities has focused on Frankfurt’s argument against this claim, I instead focus on one of Dennett’s (1984) arguments against it. This argument appeals to cases of volitional necessity rather than cases featuring counterfactual interveners. van Inwagen (1989) and Kane (1996) appeal to the notion of ‘character setting’ to argue that these cases do not show that the power to do otherwise is unnecessary for moral responsibility. In this paper, I argue that their character setting response is unsuccessful.
Use of Algae in Active Biomonitoring of Surface Waters
Authors: Rajfur Małgorzata , Kłos Andrzej
Published: May 2018

Biomonitoring studies have been carried out in three retention reservoirs located in the Opole Province (southern Poland): Turawa reservoir, Nysa reservoir and Otmuchow reservoir. The increases of concentrations of Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb in fresh water algae Spirogyra sp. and sea water Palmaria palmata (Linnaeus) Weber & Mohr, exposed in the analysed waters, were determined by the atomic absorption spectrometry method (AAS). Also the waters pH, conductivity and Mn and Fe concentrations were determined. The concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb in the analysed waters were lower than the method limit of determination. The analyses were carried out during the period from June to July 2014. The differences between the increases of heavy metal concentrations in the samples of algae found along the coastline were indicated; they result from different distances from the pollution sources, such as sediments or drainage from the areas adjacent to the reservoirs. Better sorption characteristics of Palmaria palmata in comparison to Spirogyra sp. were indicated. An empirical interrelation was also tested, the application of which after modification may enable the quantitative assessment of waters pollution with heavy metals, based on the analysis of the concentration of the element in the algae thallus.
The Analysis of Variants of Water Supply Systems in Multi-Family Residential Building
Authors: Słyś Daniel , Stec Agnieszka
Published: May 2018

Climate change, improper use of water resources, surface waters pollution as well as increase of water requirements are the results of growing population of people in the world. It causes water deficiency in majority of countries in the world, including Poland. Due to the water pollution advanced technologies for its treatment are in demand, what leads to increase of water price. In this connection, there are more often taken actions to reduce water consumption by using rainwater to flush toilets, wash cars, do laundry or water green areas. This publication presents results of Life Cycle Cost analysis of two variants of water supply systems designed for multi-family residential building situated in Rzeszow. In line with LCC methodology the calculations were made throughout the whole life-cycle of the building considering initial investment outlays intended for construction of water supply system as well as operation and maintenance costs. In the first of analyzed variants it was assumed that the system would be fed by municipal water supply network. In the second variant rainwater harvesting system for domestic use was additionally applied. Rainwater stored in the tank would be used in sanitary installation to flush toilets, what leads to lowering the costs of municipal water purchase, reducing fees for rainwater discharge to sewage system and consequently is beneficial for financial standing of the examined building.
Influence of Fertilization on Microbial Activities, Soil Hydrophobicity and Mineral Nitrogen Leaching
Authors: Elbl Jakub , Vaverková Magdalena , Adamcová Dana , Plošek Lukáš , Kintl Antonín , LošÁk Tomáš , Hynšt Jaroslav , Kotovicová Jana
Published: May 2018

This work presents the analysis of the influence of compost and reclamation substrate addition and mineral fertilizers application on leaching of mineral nitrogen, microbial activities, soil hydrophobicity and plant biomass production. To demonstrate the effect of compost, reclamation substrate and mineral nitrogen (Nmin) addition on above parameters, the pot experiment was performed. As a model crop, Deschampsia caespitosa L. was used and cultivated for 63 days in climate chamber. The leaching of Nmjn was measured by application of ion exchange discs, soil hydrophobicity was determined based on the values of saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) and microbial activity was expressed as basal (BR) and substrate induced respiration (SIR). Four variants (V1-V4) with different doses of fertilizers were prepared: V1 - control without addition of fertilizers; V2 - this variant of experiment was prepared as mixture of compost and arable land in ratio 7:3; V3 - 90 g/m2 of mineral fertilizers NPK (in the ratio 1:1:1) were applied there and into V4, dose 30 g of compost were applied. The significant differences (P < 0.05) in the detection of Nmin, values of Ksat
and SIR were found. The highest decrease of mineral nitrogen leaching was observed by the simultaneous applications of compost (V4) to arable soil, about 50% in comparison with the variant V4 (application of mineral fertilization) and about 10% in comparison with the control. Variants with addition of compost (V2 and V4) showed higher values than variants without, which were measured at three stages (before application of Nmin - 12 days after establishment of the experiment; after application of Nmin - 34 days; at end of the experiment - 63 days). During the experiment, two types of respiration were measured: BR and SIR. The significant differences in SIR were found between variants with addition of compost and variants without. The SIR (cumulative production of CO2) was higher about 25% in variants V2 and V4 compared to variants V1 and V3. The highest values of Ksat
were found in variants with addition of compost. Conversely, the lowest value of Ksat
was detected in variant with addition of Nmin. Low values of Ksat
indicate an increased level of hydrophobicity.
Environmental values in the petrochemical industry: A Q-method study in South West Iran
Authors: Ghoochani Omid M. , Bakhshi Azadeh , Cotton Matthew , Nejad Azar Hashemi , Ghanian Mansour
Published: May 2018

Achieving sustainable development in different regional and cultural contexts is dependent, in part, upon an understanding of key actors’ underlying environmental, social and economic values. The social research technique called Q-methodology presents an effective means to explore such values as a matter of discourse: revealing the typologies of stakeholder perspectives within a given debate. Q-method involves factor analysis of participant rank-ordered preselected statements on a topic. The resultant factors are then reinterpreted as social discourses. In this study we use Q-methodology to explore the environmental values of Health Safety and Environmental (HSE) managers in petrochemical companies in Khuzestan province in southwest Iran. Khuzestan is a key region of petrochemical product development, with significant associated environmental pollution effects. Understanding HSE managers’ attitudes to environmental protection is of value in predicting broader environmental impacts to the region, given the relative importance of their role in regulating the environmental performance of this industry. Our results reveal four distinct and varied perspectives on environmental protection labelled: ‘Environmental stewardship’, ‘Environmental presentism’, ‘Technological optimism’ and ‘Enlightened anthropocentrism’. We then discuss how these four emergent perspectives correspond to broader environmental discourses as categorized by John Dryzek: i.e. green rationalism, economic rationalism, prometheanism and ecological modernization respectively.
Trace elements and mineral composition of waste produced in the process of combustion of solid fuels in individual household furnaces in the Upper Silesian Industrial Region (Poland)
Authors: Smołka-Danielowska Danuta
Published: May 2018

This study presents preliminary research results, with regard to the concentration of chosen trace elements (Mn, Cr, Tl, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Ba, Pb) in waste, which was produced in the process of combustion of solid fuels (hard coal and flotation concentrate of bituminous coal) in individual household furnaces in Poland (in the Upper Silesian Industrial Region). 27 samples of ash, 4 samples of hard coal and 2 samples of flotation concentrate of bituminous coal were prepared for the research. Methods such as: ICP-MS, X-ray diffraction by means of the powder method and scanning electron microscopy were used during the research. In the ash samples obtained from the combustion of hard coal, the highest average concentrations were: Mn (1477.7 ppm), Ba (1336.4 ppm) and Zn (599.7 ppm). In the samples obtained from the combustion of flotation concentrate of bituminous coal, the highest average concentrations was stated for: Zn (762.4 ppm), Mn (668.5 ppm), Pb (552.1 ppm) and Ba (211.7 ppm). Crystalline components were determined by used the X-ray diffraction method and the samples of ash obtained from the combustion of hard coal contained: anhydrite, gypsum, hematite, magnetite, quartz, calcite, mullite, periclase, kaolinite, dolomite, pyrite, sphalerite, galena and feldspars (albite-anorthite). The samples of ash obtained from the combustion of flotation concentrate of bituminous coal contain: pyrite, quartz, potassium feldspar, muscovite and kaolinite. The scanning electron microscope analysis enabled the identification of the chemical composition of single ash grains and determined their morphology (aluminosilicate forms, substance PbS and ZnS, oxides of Ni, Cu and Mn, monazite, xenotime).
Contemporary foundations of the theory of urban development – case study smart, slow and compact city theory
Authors: Rysz Kamil , Mazurek Kinga
Published: May 2018

The issue of the concept of development and urban planning in an optimal manner is as old as cities. It has not yet been established which human activities are to be considered as conscious and planned space development. It is assumed that the beginnings of rational, thoughtful urban planning should be sought at a time when cities began to be treated as a single organism, which should function smoothly, guarantee the safety of its inhabitants through defence functions and provide a higher standard of living. The effect of these assumptions was the logical placement of buildings, transportation systems and infrastructure, as well as recreational areas so that life in the city was something more than just miserable existence. This article overlooks former planning theories such as the theories of location by J.H. von Thunen or A. Weber, as well as the projects of a garden city by E. Howard and Functional Warsaw by J. Chmielewski and S. Syrkus. Instead, it focuses on what is currently, at the beginning of the 21st century, up to date and combines contemporary concepts of sustainability and new technologies, and treats the city as a resource of limited space, buildings, infrastructure and people representing both purchasing power and the labour force. The article, apart from theoretical considerations, focused on realizations of ideas in practice, quoting both sectoral solutions related to the organization of transportation in the city, as well as to projects of entire cities.
Human – river relations at various stages of development of water front factory settlements in Łódź
Authors: Szkurłat Elżbieta
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this article is to analyze and clarify the circumstances which led to the current condition and degradation of the watercourses and rivers of Łódź. These rivers were the decisive factor in initiating and stimulating the industrial development of the city. A detailed analysis examined changes in the management of river waters in the vicinity of the socalled water-front factory settlements (referred to locally as “posiadła”) in the River Jasień valley. This was the location of one of the first industrial settlements within the city of Łódź and took place shortly after the city was included by the Polish Kingdom authorities (in 1821) in the group of so-called factory cities intended for the development of the textile industry - initially with emphasis on the cloth and linen making industry, with further transformation into the cotton industry. The article presents the forms and methods of use of the River Jasień in the period from the beginning of the 19th century up to the present. The specification assumed therefore the period of agricultural usage in the form of water mills, through textile manufacture, industrial production and the period after the fall of the textile industry. The River Jasień is an outstanding example of the way, in which people have “treated” the river during the successive stages of technological development of textile production. How close to the river they settled at the early stages of industrial development, slowly “moving away” from the river, leading to its gradual degradation, and abandoning it, restraining it to a covered channel, to ultimately forgetting it ever existed. The changes in these man - river relationships, as described in this document, can lead to conclusions for the future direction for the current spatial policy of the city. Also about these riverside post-industrial areas, with regard to the need to restore their original values and the need to protect and conserve their unique natural character and cultural heritage.
The influence of railways on spatial layouts of settlements in North-Eastern Poland
Authors: Dragan Weronika
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to analyse the transformation of spatial structures of towns in North-Eastern Poland, characterized by different origins and happening due to the construction of railway line. The region in question was in the past subject to different settlement processes taking place against the background of historical events such as, among others, the conquest of land by the Teutonic Knights and the political partition of Poland (the border between Prussia and Russia), thereby forming diverse urban systems, later influenced by the railway, which modified their spatial structures, as well as changed their existing importance in the region. As a result of aforementioned changes different forms of urban layouts were formed - line layouts within the historic towns and more complicated layouts within the new railway settlements. The entire analytical procedure was based mainly on archival cartographic materials and divided into three parts: conditions of settlements development, analyze the evolution of its spatial layouts and the typology of researched urban layouts. The chronological summary of the parts allowed for the comparison of the spatial structure of a given town and for its interpretation. In addition, field research necessary for the interpretation of the contemporary structures of chosen towns was carried out. The final result was a synthesis of research in the form of a typology of links between the original structure and the railway station, distinguishing between the different forms of settlements.
The Influence Of Perceived Value Dimensions On Customer Loyalty
Authors: Šapić Srđan , Topalović Snežana , Marinković Veljko
Published: May 2018

In conditions of intense competition, it is not enough to achieve only customer satisfaction. The marketing-oriented companies must be focused on building long-term customer loyalty. Creation and delivery of superior values are the key activities to achieve and maintain competitive advantage. This study seeks to examine how the different value dimensions of travel agencies' services affect both dimensions of loyalty: the intention of using the same services again and recommending them to others. Primary data were collected through questionnaire method. In the study, descriptive statistics, correlation and multi-point regression were used for data analysis. The results of survey point out two key dimensions of perceived value that achieve a statistically significant effect on loyalty: quality of interaction and value for money. Identification of key dimensions of perceived value as an initiator of loyalty is essential for service-oriented companies, because in this way they increase opportunities for improving business relationships with clients, in the future.
Health And Recreation Tourism In The Development Of Mountain Spas And Resorts
Authors: Gligorijević Živorad , Novović Milan
Published: May 2018

The positive achievements of the globalization process is the awareness of the imminent protection and preservation of the environment, and the consequent health tourism, as a kind of organized movement of people to meet the needs of living in a “pristine nature” and satisfying the need for clean water, food and air. It is a little-known, easily accessible wilderness areas in the world. Environmental values through such places, such as the specific characteristics of space, good climate, hydrographic resources and other natural features can be a good basis for the development of health and recreational tourism in the future. In this sense, national, and increasingly local communities should be responsible for the selected type and pace of tourism development in terms of directing the long-term quality and complex interaction between the tourist offer, tourist demand and the environment in general. Strategic vision, in this context, involves the application of eco-management, both in the field of tourism policy, as well as in the domain of politics at the level of individual holders of tourist attractions. With that in mind, this paper presents the possibilities of development of health and recreational tourism in spas and mountain resorts, and points to the role in this development, there should be an eco-management, especially if we take into account the fact that in today's terms of increased tourist demand for healthy and intact natural areas.
New Rules for Acquisition of Agricultural Land – – Case of Slovakia / Nové Pravidlá Pre Nadobúdanie Vlastníctva K Poľnohospodárskej Pôde – – Prípad Slovenska
Authors: Lazíková Jarmila , Bandlerová Anna
Published: May 2018

The paper analysis the development of the legal regulations of the currency law related to the acquisition of the land by the foreigners and the new legal regulation no. 140/2014 Coll. on the acquisition of the ownership to the agricultural land which entered into force on June, 1st, 2014 and to limit not only the rights of foreigners but also the rights of the Slovak residents as well. According to this law the owner of the agricultural land in Slovakia may, without further restrictions, transfer the agricultural land only to (a) a buyer who has been active in the food business or exercises agricultural activity („Farmer“) in the municipality where the agricultural land is situated for at least three years prior to the transfer; (b) the existing co-owner of the agricultural land; or (c) persons related to the owner, in the event that the owner is a natural person
Impact of ectohumus application in birch and pine nurseries on the presence of soil mites (Acari), Oribatida in particular
Authors: Klimek Andrzej , Rolbiecki Stanisław , Rolbiecki Roman
Published: May 2018

Intensively used forest nurseries are characterised by degradation processes that lead to a drop in the quality of seedlings. The main reason of this problem is a decrease in biological soil diversity. Therefore, an attempt of nursery soil enrichment by introducing ectohumus – as compost and fresh litter – from the pine forest was carried out. The research was carried out in 2009–2011 in the Bielawy forest nursery near the city of Toruń, Poland. The objective of the study was to determine the impact of organic fertilisation (compost made up of forest humus) and mulching using fresh ectohumus on the density and community composition of Acari mites and on species composition of oribatid mites (Oribatida) in the nurseries of silver birch and Scots pine. Mites, especially oribatid mites, were treated as bioindicators of soil biological activity. Research has shown that mulching using fresh ectohumus caused a multiple increase in the density of mites, especially in saprophagous mites Oribatida. Oribatid mites were clearly more numerous in birch cultivation than in that of pine. Overall, 27 species of oribatid mites were found. Mulching resulted in a significant growth in species diversity in both cultivations. The most numerous oribatid mite in the area under the study was Oribatula tibialis. This species was present in all plots and showed clear preference for birch cultivation. Tectocepheus velatus and Oppiella nova, common and known to be present in a variety of environments, were slightly less numerous.
Influence of seed priming and water stress on selected physiological traits of borage
Authors: Dastborhan Soheila , Ghassemi-Golezani Kazem
Published: May 2018

Borage is a valuable medicinal plant with various constituents in leaves, flowers and seeds. Hence, it is important to improve the performance of this medicinal plant under different environmental conditions. Thus, two field experiments were arranged as split-plots based on a RCB design with three replications in 2012 and 2013, to evaluate the effects of seed priming and different irrigation intervals on selected physiological properties of borage leaves. Irrigation intervals (irrigation after 60, 90, 120, 150 mm evaporation from Class A pans, respectively) and priming treatments (control, water, KNO3 and KH2PO4) were allocated to the main and sub plots, respectively. The chlorophyll content index was enhanced under limited irrigation treatments, mainly due to a decrease in leaf area index and intercepting more radiation. However, the membrane stability index was stable under different irrigation intervals. Decreased relative water content and leaf area index and increased leaf temperature under lower water availability led to some reductions in the grain yield of borage. All of the priming techniques, particularly hydro-priming, enhanced the seedling emergence rate, leaf area index and consequently grain yield per unit area. Therefore, seed hydro-priming can be used to improve the field performance of borage, particularly when sufficient water is available.
The Role of Signals in Online Auction Purchase Decisions
Authors: Cypryjański Jacek , Grzesiuk Aleksandra
Published: May 2018

There is a growing interest in behavioural economics contradicting the empirical prediction of rational choice theory once applied to online auctions. The issue is of particular relevance due to the large use of online auctions and the anticipated growth in the future. Online auctions combine the conventional auction model with information technology. However, information asymmetry within such auctions causes risks and uncertainties that influence consumer purchase intentions. The research investigates online consumers’ behaviour. The Authors suggest that due to the high perceived risk of the online buying process consumers are prompted to use cues of seller’ reputation. In a series of six experiments conducted via the auction site Allegro.pl in Poland a number of signals from auction web pages has been manipulated to influence purchase intention. The results suggest that several signals can be used to stimulate online customers’ behaviour. The results of these experiments indicate that buyers are more susceptible to the influence of “visual” signals than signals that require greater involvement of the buyer (to read information). The conducted experiments contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of online auction users’ behaviour. And finally it provides some managerial implications to increase online auction effectiveness from the seller’s perspective.
Testing Integration Effects Between the Cee and U.S. Stock Markets During the 2007–2009 Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Olbryś Joanna , Majewska Elżbieta
Published: May 2018

The main goal of this paper is to explicitly test a research hypothesis that there was no integration effect among the U.S. and the eight Central and Eastern European (CEE) stock markets during the 2007-2009 Global Financial Crisis (GFC). As growing international integration could lead to a progressive increase in cross-market correlations, the evaluation of integration was carried out by applying equality tests of correlation matrices computed over non-overlapping subsamples: the pre-crisis and crisis periods, in the group of investigated markets. The crisis periods are formally established based on a statistical method of dividing market states into bullish and bearish markets. The sample period May 2004-April 2014 includes the 2007 U.S. subprime financial crisis. The robustness analysis of the integration tests with respect to various data frequencies is provided. The empirical results are not homogeneous and they depend both on the integration test and data frequency. Consequently, it is not possible to conclude whether integration between the investigated markets is present.
The Influence of Profitability Ratios and Company Size on Profitability and Investment Risk in the Capital Market
Authors: Rutkowska-Ziarko Anna
Published: May 2018

A study was conducted of 15 food companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. The profitability of companies was measured by: return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE) and return on sales (ROS). Investment risk was measured by standard deviation and semi-deviation. The main objective of the study was to examine whether the average level and variability of selected indicators of profitability are reflected in the average level and the variability of returns on the capital market. An additional aim was to examine whether the size of the company affects the profitability and risk of investment in stocks as well as the average value and the volatility of profitability ratios. A positive correlation between the average value of the profitability ratios (ROA and ROS) and the average rates of return on the capital market was identified. Similarly, companies with higher volatility and semi-volatility of profitability ratios were simultaneously characterized by larger fluctuations in rates of return on the stock market. Studies have shown that the size of the company is negatively correlated with the risk of stock market investments and the volatility of profitability ratios.
Diversified Price Dynamics in some Sub-Segments of the Housing Market
Authors: Kokot Sebastian G.
Published: May 2018

The observation of price movements on the real estate market is an extremely difficult task as we have to face problems belonging to two spheres. The first of them is the specific nature of real estate as marketable objects and of the real estate market itself. The second one is the character and quality of data on real estate transaction prices. In this article the author, based on an empirical study, attempts to prove that even in a single segment of a local real estate market the prices in individual sub-segments can fluctuate with different intensity. The range of price movements can be so vast that it seems pointless to apply a single averaged price index for the whole segment, and usually that is what analysts do.
Saproxylic beetles (Coleoptera) of the strictly protected area Bukowa Góra in the Roztoczański National Park
Authors: Papis Magdalena , Mokrzycki Tomasz
Published: May 2018

The aims of this study were to demonstrate the role of forests in the Roztoczański National Park as a refuge for rare and endangered saproxylic Coleoptera as well as recognition of entomological fauna related to dead wood. The study was conducted in the strictly protected are of Bukowa Góra from 20th April to 30th September 2012 and focused on the wood of beech and fir. We inventoried saproxylic beetles by means of nine ‘Netocia’ traps, which resulted in a total of 135 recorded species, of which 52 had not been reported in the park before. Twenty-one rare and endangered species were found. The high number of new species in the Roztoczański National Park indicates a high biodiversity value of the area. Our studies therefore show that the strictly protected area of Bukowa Góra is a biodiversity hot spot of saproxylic Coleoptera.