bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INVESTIGATING CORRELATION BETWEEN READING STRATEGIES AND READING ACHIEVEMENT ACROSS LEARNING STYLES
Authors: Islam Syaiful
Published: July 2019

The study was aimed to analyze the interrelationship between metacognitive reading strategy and reading achievements, the correlation between cognitive reading strategy and reading achievement, and to know the effect between metacognitive and cognitive strategy used by learners across their learning styles. This study used correlation research. The number of populations was 315. The researcher chose 113 Senior High EFL students at MA Nurul Jadid. Questionnaire and reading comprehension test were used to collect data. The researcher used two questionnaires to measure reading strategies used by the students and students’ learning styles. SPSS V. 20 was used to analyze questionnaires’ data. Descriptive statistics was applied to calculate the mean and standard deviation of 40 individual reading strategies. The results were: metacognitive and cognitive strategies were used in high and medium level when students did the tests. Metacognitive strategy significantly correlated with reading achievement where correlation coefficient is greater than critical value of correlation coefficient while cognitive strategy does not relate mutually to reading achievements. Then, reading strategies significantly affected students’ reading achievement.
ARE PEER FEEDBACK ACTIVITY ESSENTIAL IN ONLINE ARGUMENTATIVE WRITING?
Authors: Ryandini Elda Yulia
Published: July 2019

ABSTRACT: The purposes of this research were to investigate and classify peer feedback activity in online argumentative writing and to probe the essence of getting peer feedback. This research used qualitative approach to respond the research problems. The  subjects  of  this  study  were 3 students from a writing  class of English Education  Department at Islamic University in East Java. Data were collected through observation and semi-structured interview. The findings of this research showed that there were various feedback given by peers such as no thesis statement in introduction, short sentences in body and conclusion paragraphs, incomplete ideas in introduction, error grammars and sentence structures, no clear counter arguments and refutations in body paragraphs, no refutation in body paragraph, not cover idea of body paragraph in conclusion, not debatable title, and not confusing position whether agree or disagree with the topic. The result also indicated that the essence of getting peer feedback in online argumentative writing were positive proved by the students’ enthusiastic derived from interview.
Designing online professional learning network for developing researcherly dispositions of pre-service teachers
Authors: YOKUŞ Gürol , YANPAR YELKEN Tuğba
Published: July 2019

Researcherly disposition is a quality which is rarely studied with pre-service teachers. For developing researcherly disposition, online networks are borught to agenda now rather than libraries. This study aims to design an online professional learning network (PLN) and to investigate its effect on pre-service teachers’ researcherly dispositions. In this study, a mobile app has been designed for pre-service teachers containing a multiple of educator networks such as Edutopia, Classroom 2.0, Edchat etc. Concurrent embedded experimental mixed design is used as a research method. Related Samples T-Tests, ANCOVA are used for analysis of quantitative data; and content analysis method is used for analysis of qualitative data. Findings indicate that online professional learning networks provide good opportunities of research. They are more effective than portfolios in terms of developing researcherly disposition. Online professional learning networks increase pre-service teachers’ research-based decisions, their sharing of educational studies. Also, they help pre-service teachers to value research and update their instructional knowledge.
Understanding the impact of teacher’s formative feedback on students’ self-reflection behavior and learning motivation
Authors: PAN Xiaoquan , GAN Zhengdong
Published: July 2019

This article presents the results of questionnaire surveys on the impact of teacher’s formative feedback on students’ self-reflection behavior, self-reflection strategy and learning motivation conducted with 152 English major students from a teacher-education-oriented university in China. The study found the significant impact of teacher’s formative feedback on students’ self-reflection practices and learning motivation. The findings also showed that freshmen have stronger plasticity and are more susceptible to teacher’s feedback. Therefore, it is suggested that teachers should do a good job in the mode and method of positive evaluation feedback from the freshman year, and stick to it, so as to lay a good foundation for students’ learning motivation development, learning strategy improvement and self-reflection behavior.
Minimum Reinforcement for Crack Width Control in RC Tensile Elements
Authors: Knauff M. , Grzeszykowski B. , Golubińska A.
Published: July 2019

New approach using direct crack width calculations of the minimum reinforcement in tensile RC elements is presented. Verification involves checking whether the provided reinforcement ensures that the crack width that may result from the thermal-shrinkage effects does not exceed the limit value. The Eurocode provisions were enriched with addendums derived from the German national annex. Three levels of accuracy of the analysis were defined - the higher the level applied, the more significant reduction in the amount of reinforcement required can be achieved. A methodology of determining the minimum reinforcement for crack width control on the example of a RC retaining wall is presented. In the analysis the influence of residual and restraint stresses caused by hydration heat release and shrinkage was considered.
Demand Model in the Agglomeration using Sim Cards
Authors: Brzeziński A. , Dybicz T. , Szymański Ł.
Published: July 2019

The road network development programme, as well as planning and design of transport systems of cities and agglomerations require complex analyses and traffic forecasts. It particularly applies to higher-class roads (motorways and expressways), which in urban areas, support different types of traffic. Usually there is a conflict between the needs of long-distance traffic, in the interest of which higher-class roads run through undeveloped areas, and the needs of bringing such road closer to potential destinations, cities [1]. By recognising the importance of this problem it is necessary to develop the research and methodology of traffic analysis, especially trip models. The current experience shows that agglomeration models are usually simplified in comparison to large city models, what results from misunderstanding of the significance of these movements for the entire model functioning, or the lack of input data. The article presents the INMOP 3 research project results, within the framework of which it was attempted to increase the accuracy of traffic generation in agglomeration model owing to the use of BigData – the mobile operator’s data on SIM card movements in the Warsaw agglomeration.
Digital Image Correlation Systems in the Experimental Investigations: Capabilities and Limitations
Authors: Krawczyk Ł. , Gołdyn Michał , Urban Tadeusz
Published: July 2019

The aim of the paper is to present the possibilities and limitations of using the Digital Image Correlation systems. In order to assess the measurement inaccuracies the measuring volume 1250 × 1100 mm was analysed using two cameras with sensor resolution 6 megapixels. It was stated very good accuracy of the line segment length change. It causes that observation of crack widths can be considered as precisely. Some practical information concern how determine the compatibility between crack width measured traditionally and by using DIC are given. In the second part of the paper the results of the tests concerning capacity of interface between two concrete casting at the same time were presented. Use of the optical measurement system Aramis enables the analysis of the deformation, determination of failure mode of the tested specimens and limit displacement between edges of the interface.
Influence of Ultraviolet Irradiation and Protease on Scale Structure of Alpaca Wool Fibers
Authors: Wang Hua , Farha Farial Islam , Memon Hafeezullah
Published: July 2019

The present research aimed to explore the influence of different felt-proofing methods on alpaca fibers’ scale structure. Dyed alpaca fibers were exposed to a particular wavelength of ultraviolet (UV) light for different periods and treated with protease to analyze the felt property and compare with untreated fibers. Experimental results have shown that alpaca fibers have better shrinkage resistance and dyeability after being exposed to UV light, whereas no recognizable change was obtained on the surface of alpaca fibers’ scale structure by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In contrary, enzyme-treated alpaca fibers revealed improved dye rate and resistance to shrinkage. Especially, damaged scales on many areas of fiber surface were appeared by SEM, which indicates that UV may have a positive effect on enzyme treatment by damaging alpaca fibers’ surface structure and promoting the amount of protease going into the fibers’ inner layers. Therefore, eventually a better shrinkage resistance was obtained.
Rare case of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma metastasizing to contralateral kidney and ipsilateral parotid more than five years following nephrectomy
Authors: Sydney Guy , Ioakim Kalliopi , Kara Nayia , Pantelas George
Published: July 2019

Backgroung/Aim: Salivary gland malignancies are rare, with only a fraction due to metastases. We report a rare case of the Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (CCRCC), a subtype of the Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC), metastasizing to the parotid gland more than five years following nephrectomy. Case report: A 75-year-old female presented with a unilateral left parotid mass that was growing over the period of 18 months. After clinical and laboratory examinations, the patient underwent left partial superficial parotidectomy with preservation of the facial nerve. The significance of the patient's history of the CCRCC was pivotal to the histopathological diagnosis of a metastatic CCRCC to the parotid. Conclusions: The unpredictable nature of the RCC results in the need for a long period of follow-up, as well as having a high degree of suspicion of metastasis in a patient presenting with a medical history of the RCC and a parotid mass.
Liverworts, mosses and hornworts of Afghanistan - our present knowledge
Authors: Kürschner Harald , Frey Wolfgang
Published: July 2019

A new bryophyte checklist for Afghanistan is presented, including all published records since the beginning of collection activities in 1839–1840 by W. Griffith till present. Considering several unidentified collections in various herbaria, 23 new records for Afghanistan together with the collection data can be added to the flora. Beside a new genus, Asterella, the new records include Amblystegium serpens var. serpens, Brachythecium erythrorrhizon, Bryum dichotomum, B. elwendicum, B. pallens, B. weigelii, Dichodontium palustre, Didymodon luridus, D. tectorum, Distichium inclinatum, Entosthodon muhlenbergii, Hygroamblystegium fluviatile subsp. fluviatile, Oncophorus virens, Orthotrichum rupestre var. sturmii, Pogonatum urnigerum, Pseudocrossidium revolutum, Pterygoneurum ovatum, Schistidium rivulare, Syntrichia handelii, Tortella inflexa, T. tortuosa, and Tortula muralis subsp. obtusifolia. Therewith the number of species increase to 24 liverworts, 246 mosses and one hornwort. In addition, a historical overview of the country’s exploration and a full biogeography of Afghan bryophytes is given.
Neotypification of Fissidens arunii (Musci)
Authors: Bruggeman-Nannenga Maria Alida
Published: July 2019

The poorly known Indian species Fissidens arunii is neotypified, described, figured and compared with other limbate, unipapillose species. Fissidens elimbatus is subsumed under F. crispulus, F. plumula under F. firmus and F. touwii under F. sedgwickii. Taxonomic changes: neotypification Fissidens arunii, F. crispulus Brid. (= F. elimbatus Broth. and = F. walkeri var. elimbatus (Broth.) Dixon), F. firmus (= F. plumula Mitt.). and F. sedgwickii Broth. & Dixon (= Fissidens touwii Tad. Suzuki & Z. Iwats.).
Two new species of Lejeuneaceae tribe Lejeuneeae (Marchantiophyta) from Colombia
Authors: Gradstein S. Robbert , Ilkiu-Borges Anna Luiza
Published: July 2019

We describe the new liverwort species Lejeunea ryszardii from montane rainforest in the Central Cordillera of Colombia (Dept. Quindío) and Rectolejeunea halinae from submontane rainforest in the Western Cordillera (Dept. Risaralda). Both species stand out by copious vegetative reproduction via caducous leaves. Lejeunea ryszardii resembles the Caribbean L. paucidentata in the leaf lobes with toothed margins and a narrow base but strikingly differs from the latter species in: 1) leaf margins with mamillose cells, which are sometimes crowned by a small papilla, and with scattered rhizoids with or without a tooth-like base; 2) lobules with narrowly elongate, curved, sharp tooth; 3) stem epidermis brownish and somewhat thick-walled; 4) copious production of caducous leaf lobes. Moreover, L. ryszardii is dark green to brown in color and probably dioicous while L. paucidentata is light green and autoicous. Rectolejeunea halinae resembles the neotropical R. flagelliformis in having ciliate caducous leaves but clearly differs from the latter in the pointed leaf tips, the presence of ocelli in underleaves, and the flagelliform shoots with flat, entire-margined underleaves. The discovery of these new species adds two further endemic taxa to the rich bryophyte flora of the Colombian Andes.
New liverworts from the Peruvian Andes. I. Colura ochyrana and Drepanolejeunea halinae (Lejeuneaceae, Marchantiophyta)
Authors: Pócs Tamás
Published: July 2019

During an intensive ecological and biodiversity research project in the eastern Andes of central Peru large number of bryophytes were collected including many species new to Peru and a few even to science. The present paper describes two new species of Lejeuneaceae, Colura ochyrana and Drepanolejeunea halinae, which seem to be endemic to the Andes.
Apparent photosynthesis of terrestrial mosses: An indicator of population functional health
Authors: Vitt Dale H.
Published: July 2019

Terrestrial mosses dominate the ground in many vegetation types and most are long-lived perennials with highly complex canopies. Long-term population health continues through numerous wetting and drying cycles; however, extreme drought or extended wet periods may create conditions that cause some parts of the population to die or remain inactive. I examined apparent photosynthesis of fully hydrated populations of four terrestrial species of mosses occurring in leaf-free mesohabitats in temperate deciduous forests of eastern North America in order to explore photosynthetic variability of both popula-tions and species. There was high variability in rates of apparent photosynthesis among the popula-tions of mosses for all four species examined in this study. Despite this variability within species, all four species achieved similar mean rates of photosynthesis. Two years after relocation to nearly bare ground habitats, populations of three of the four species achieved similar apparent photosynthetic rates as natural popula-tions, and functioned in a similar manner.
An annotated checklist of the bryophytes of Taita Hills region, Kenya
Authors: Enroth Johannes , Pócs Tamás , He Xiaolan , Nyqvist Petri , Stam Åsa , Malombe Itambo , Rikkinen Jouko
Published: July 2019

Based on previous literature and our own collections, we list 285 bryophyte species (142 liverworts, 143 mosses) from the Taita Hills region (including Mt. Kasigau and Maktau Hill) in SE Kenya. New records for Kenya include the liverworts Archilejeunea elobulata Steph., Bazzania nitida (F. Weber) Grolle, Cololejeunea grossepapillosa (Horik.) N. Kitag., Diplasiolejeunea kraussiana (Lindenb.) Steph., D. villaumei Steph., Lejeunea amaniensis E.W. Jones, L. cyathearum E.W. Jones, Lopholejeunea laciniata E.W. Jones, Metzgeria crassipilis (Lindb.) A. Evans, M. nudifrons Steph., Plagiochila boryana (F. Weber) Nees, and P. moenkemeyeri Steph., and the mosses Leucophanes hildebrandtii Müll. Hal. and Neckeromnion lepineanum (Mont.) S. Olsson, Enroth, Huttunen & D. Quandt. A further 22 liverworts and 13 mosses previously known from other parts of Kenya are reported for the first time from the Taita Hills region.
On the hypothesis of dioicous – monoicous species pairs in the Mniaceae (Bryophyta); morphology, sexual condition and distiribution
Authors: Koponen Timo
Published: July 2019

Some early observations seemed to show that, in the Mniaceae, the doubling of the chromo-some set affects a change from dioicous to monoicous condition, larger size of the gametophyte including larger leaf cell size, and to a wider range of the monoicous counterpart. The Mniaceae taxa are divided into four groups based on their sexual condition and morphology. 1. Dioicous – monoicous counterparts which can be distinguished by morphological characters, 2. Dioicous – monoicous taxa which have no morphological, deviating characters, 3. Monoicous species mostly with diploid chromosome number for which no dioicous counterpart is known, and 4. The taxa in Mniaceae with only dioicous plants. Most of the monoicous species of the Mniaceae have wide ranges, but a few of them are endemics in geographically isolated areas. The dioicous species have either a wide holarctic range or a limited range in the forested areas of temperate and meridional North America, Europe and SE Asia, or in subtropical Asia. Some of the monoicous species are evidently autodiploids and a few of them are allopolyploids from cross-sections of two species. Quite recently, several new possible dioicous – monoicous relationships have been discovered.
Episodic but ample sporophyte production in the moss Drepanocladus turgescens (Bryophyta: Amblystegiaceae) in SE Sweden
Authors: Hedenäs Lars , Bisang Irene
Published: July 2019

In the Baltic area, the long-lived dioicous wetland moss Drepanocladus turgescens (T.Jensen) Broth. produces sporophytes rarely and at irregular intervals. Based on surveys of sporophyte occurrences at 13 sites in two regions in northern Gotland (Sweden) during three to five years, we ask: (1) Is sporophyte formation associated with precipitation and a precipitation index that considers the dry periods during July-August of the preceding year, when gametangia are formed and fertilization occurs? (2) Does the estimated spore output suffice for the species’ long-term persistence of the (Northern) European population species? In one of the study regions, where D. turgescens occurs in depressions, sporophyte formation was associated with the two precipitation parameters. In the other study region, with relatively higher precipitation and exposed occurrences on a slightly sloping bedrock with very little accumulated soil, no such association existed. We suggest that this lack of weather effects results from that the exposed rock habitat requires longer continuously wet periods than the depression habitat to allow for gametangia initiation and development, and fertilisation. Average spore production for six spore capsules, from three Gotland localities was 181,000. Based on the sporophyte counts during the survey years, we estimated the total reproductive output as 411.5 million spores in 2013, and 42.5 million in 2015, in the two respective study regions. Taken together with data on haplotype patterns and considering observations on recent colonisations, we argue that such a relatively low and episodic regional spore production is sufficient to maintain global populations of long-lived species, even if these occur in specialized and geographically restricted habitats.
New additions, range extensions and nomenclatural updates for the Hawaiian moss flora, island of Kauaʻi, USA
Authors: Shevock James R. , Flynn Tim , Game John C. , Ma Wen Zhang , Williams Adam , Toren David R. , Tan Benito C. , Spence John R.
Published: July 2019

Fifty mosses are reported new for the island of Kauaʻi. Sixteen species represent the first collection for the State of Hawaiʻi and are indicated by an asterisk (*). The moss flora of Kauaʻi is comprised of 170 taxa.
Didymodon ochyrarum (Pottiaceae, Bryophyta), a new Andean species from tropical South America
Authors: Jiménez Juan A. , Cano María J.
Published: July 2019

A new moss species, Didymodon ochyrarum J.A. Jiménez & M.J. Cano, is described and illustrated from the tropical Andean highlands of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina. The species is distinguished morphologically by its lanceolate to long-lanceolate leaves that are strongly appressed when dry, leaf base widely ovate, acute apices, plane leaf margins and distally bistratose, excurrent costa, epapillose laminal cells, and marginal basal cells running up the margin forming a distinctly differentiated area of transversely thick-walled cells. Drawings and light microscope photographs of the new species are provided, and possible confusion with other closely related taxa is discussed.
Notes on Fissidens (Fissidentaceae) in tropical Australia: Fissidens darwinianus
Authors: Seppelt Rod D.
Published: July 2019

Recent collections of the Tropical to Subtropical Australian endemic species Fissidens darwinianus with good fruiting material have enabled an elaboration of the type diagnosis with a complete description of the sporophyte and updated anatomical details. The peristome is of the bryoides-type. Fissidens darwinianus appears closely related morphologically to F. bogoriensis, a species known from China, Japan, the Malay Peninsula and most of the large islands of the Indo-Pacific as far east as New Guinea. The relationships of F. darwinianus to the globally widespread and morphologically diverse F. curvatus are being further investigated.
A revision of the family Sematophyllaceae (Bryophyta) in southern Africa
Authors: Câmara Paulo E.A.S. , van Rooy Jacques , Silva Micheline Carvalho , Magill Robert E.
Published: July 2019

In the Flora of southern Africa area, comprising the countries of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland, the moss family Sematophyllaceae consists of three genera (Trichosteleum, Donnellia and Sematophyllum) and nine species. Core sematophyllous taxa with collenchymatous exothecial cells, long rostrate operculum, linear leaf cells and differentiated alar cells are included in the family. Meiothecium fuscescens is transferred to Donnellia and a new combination made. Sematophyllum wageri is reduced to synonymy under S. brachycarpum and a lectotype is designated for S. dregei. Each species is described and its distribution mapped.
Lewinskya anaglyptodon var. ochyrarum (Orthotrichaceae), a new variety of epiphytic moss from Chile
Authors: Plášek Vítězslav
Published: July 2019

Lewinskya anaglyptodon var. ochyrarum Plášek, var. nova, is a confirmed record of a new variety from Chile. The new taxon is described and illustrated by macro photos and micro photos from SEM. It is characterized by having double peristome with conspicuous endostome segments which are unknown in the type variety.
Health-related Quality of Life of Macedonian Families Experiencing Cystic Fibrosis in Pediatric Practice
Authors: Nakov Zoran Nikola , Fushtikj Stojka Naceva , Tonikj-Ribarska Jasmina , Jolevska Suzana Trajkovikj
Published: July 2019

Background: : Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a parameter that is examined in the area of clinical effectiveness. Like other chronic health conditions, paediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) impacts not only children but also their families.

Aim: The present study investigates for the first time the HRQoL of children and parents in the Republic of North Macedonia.

Materials and methods: The survey included 22 children (6 to 13 years of age) and their parents and 7 parents of children under 6 years of age by using the CFQ Revised and questions for current medical treatment.

Results: Children (6-13 years) reported the highest score for the digestive condition (84.85), while the lowest score was given for social activity (59.74). The highest score for digestive condition was also obtained from the parents of children from 6-13 years and under age of 6. The parents of children (6-13 years) reported the lowest score (60.56) for treatment burden activity, while the lowest score (50.0) for eating condition was obtained from the parents of children under 6 years.

Conclusion: Nationality and gender have no significant impact on the HRQoL parameters. The highest scores for the digestive condition, respiratory function and physical condition are in a positive correlation with the fact that enzyme, antibiotic and physical therapy are given as a standard medical care. The lowest scores of the social aspect of the CF patients indicate the need for including a psychological support and support of social workers as a part of the standard medical care of these patients.
Diagnostic Significance of Biomarkers of Iron Deficiency for Anemia in Clinical Practice
Authors: Petkova Nina Y. , Raynov Julian I. , Petrova Daniela Y. , Ramsheva Zorka N. , Petrov Borislav A.
Published: July 2019

Aim: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common medical condition, yet there is still some diagnostic uncertainty in this respect. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical significance of biomarkers of iron deficiency (ID) in diagnosing IDA and iron-deficient erythropoiesis in anemic patients.

Materials and methods: A total of 103 untreated patients with non-hemolytic anemia were included. Blood count, reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr), iron, transferrin saturation (TSAT), ferritin (Ferr), soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) and sTfR/logFerr index (sTfR-F index) were determined in the patients.

Results: TSAT<16% diagnosed 79 patients with IDA (76.6%), Ferr<30 µg/l - 50 patients with IDA (48.5%). Thomas-plot analysis found 76 patients with ID (73.8%) and 56 of them were with iron-restricted erythropoiesis and IDA (54.4%). Biomarkers of ID were significantly different in anemic patients with iron-deficient erythropoiesis (CHr<28 pg) compared with patients with normal hemoglobinisation (p<0.001). With regard to the predictive value of the parameters of ID for iron-deficient erythropoiesis in anemia, their mutually controlled influence proved sTfR-F index only as independent statistically significant (p=0.011). The optimal cut-off value of sTfR-F index from the ROC curve analysis for detecting iron-deficient erythropoiesis in anemia (CHr<28 pg) was 1.35, with sensitivity of 82.1% and specificity of 80.9% (AUC 0.866; p<0.001).

Conclusions: Diagnosis of IDA depends on the applied biomarkers of ID, and TSAT or ferritin when used alone may lead to diagnostic difficulties. Combining sTfR-F index and CHr to evaluate iron-deficient erythropoiesis in patients with anemia in addition to ferritin and TSAT could contribute to improving the diagnosis of IDA in clinical practice.
Influence of Company Size on Accounting Information for Decision-Making of Management
Authors: Horvat Tatjana , Mojzer Jožica
Published: July 2019

The aim of this paper is to show the importance of accounting information for management, especially in medium-sized companies. Sampling was carried out according to the accidental principle, after which we selected 300 medium-sized and large companies. We used the questionnaire, which was standardized and implemented online. Two hypothesis were tested with a chi-square test and contingency table. In this study of Slovenian large and medium companies, we want to find out whether the size of the company has an impact on organizing a specific controlling service in a company and whether, in large companies, heads of accounting are more often members of management than in mediumsized enterprises. We discovered a bias between organizing a specific controlling department and the size of a company, and that large companies have more often organized a special controlling service than medium-sized enterprises. We also discovered the accounting officer’s membership in a company’s management team is not related to the size of a company. The results of the research could be used in controlling in medium-sized companies, where we suggest that management accounting in these companies is part of management decisions.
Impact of Social Responsibility on the Quality of Company Governance
Authors: Jurić Ana , Zupanc Aleksandra , Štrukelj Tjaša
Published: July 2019

The central aim of the article is company governance, i.e., researching governance of a company that does not want to be only financially successful but also direct its governance toward socially responsible governance. The article begins with the definition of “theoretical backgrounds,” in which social responsibility in regard to company governance improvement in quality is explained. The article then focuses on the measurement of the quality of company governance; in the research, the selected tool chosen to evaluate the governance of the chosen company regarding social responsibility, i.e., SEECGAN index, is used. Further, the case study of a Slovenian public limited liability company is used. One of the important research findings is the recognition that the addressed part of the SEECGAN index needs to be innovated and further developed. Additional questions for the completion of the index used presents the added value of the article. This article has two limitations: 1) it focuses only on the tool chosen to evaluate the governance of the chosen company regarding social responsibility; 2) the case study is based on publicly accessible data.
Developing Theory of Mind Twenty-Five Years After the Publication of “Z Badań Nad Kompetencją Komunikacyjną Dziecka” (Edited by B. Bokus and M.Haman)
Authors: Haman Maciej
Published: July 2019

Twenty-five years ago, a book “Z badań nad kompetencją komunikacyjną dziecka”, edited by Barbara Bokus and Maciej Haman, was issued containing, among else, the first Polish review of the studies on the development of Theory of Mind. During these 25 years, the area developed extensively and a new “state-of-the-arts” paper is necessary. The current paper does not pretend to the role of a complete review, instead it focusses on two live issues in the Theory of Mind (ToM) research progress: early (before the age of four years) competences in false-belief understanding, which leads to the question of continuity versus discontinuity (e.g., “Two-system theory”) between early and later ToM abilities, and neuroimaging studies of Theory-of-Mind, which may also contribute to the continuity debate.
Energy Efficient Small Inland Passenger Shuttle Ferry with Hybrid Propulsion - Concept Design, Calculations and Model Tests
Authors: Kunicka Magdalena , Litwin Wojciech
Published: July 2019

In recent years, there has been a significant development in “green” and energy efficient propulsion systems, which fits into the general trend of environmentally friendly “green shipping”.

The pursued goal is to construct a safe passenger ship that is low in energy demand and equipped with a highly energy efficient, emission-free propulsion system.

The paper presents main problems encountered by designers of a small, hybrid-powered ferry powered lithium batteries. The conducted research allowed to create a design of an energy efficient hull shape, which decreases the demand for energy. Completed remote control model tests resulted in a proposal of an energy efficient and safe propulsion system with good manoeuvring capabilities. Measurements completed on an existing ferry permitted completing energy balance and forming an energy management policy.

The paper contains the emission calculations computed for the existing ferry that are necessary for the environmental impact analysis.

The soon to be constructed, newly designed vessel will provide a valuable contribution to hybrid-propulsion, energy management and unmanned technologies research.
Application of Reverse Engineering Technology in Part Design for Shipbuilding Industry
Authors: Deja Mariusz , Dobrzyński Michał , Rymkiewicz Marcin
Published: July 2019

In the shipbuilding industry, it is difficult to create CAD models of existing or prototype parts, especially with many freeform surfaces. The paper presents the creation of the CAD 3D model of a shipbuilding component with the application of the reverse engineering technology. Based on the data obtained from the digitization process, the component is reconstructed in point cloud processing programs and the CAD model is created. Finally, the accuracy of the digital model is estimated.
Selected Problems of Experimental Testing Marine Stern Tube Bearings
Authors: Barszczewska Agnieszka , Piątkowska Ewa , Litwin Wojciech
Published: July 2019

This paper presents typical methods for conducting experimental tests on main shaft slide bearings. There are described their possible testing capabilities, advantages, drawbacks and limitations. Various testing methods were analyzed to find a solution able of providing a wide range of possible investigations at possibly acceptable limitations.
Cytokines and MMP-9 Levels in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Patients with Persistent Parvovirus B19, HHV-6 and HHV-7 Infection
Authors: Kadiša Anda , Nora-Krūkle Zaiga , Švirskis Simons , Studers Pēteris , Girkontaite Irute , Lejnieks Aivars , Murovska Modra
Published: July 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes erosive changes and ankylosis of joints and may cause internal injuries. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative process of the articular cartilage. However, inflammatory mediators may play a pivotal role in the initiation and perpetuation of the OA process. It is necessary to continue to study possible factors that may promote the development of the disease. The goal of this study was to evaluate the frequency and activity stage of parvovirus B19 (B19V) and persistent human herpes virus (HHV)-6 and HHV-7 infection in RA and OA patients, and healthy persons, in relation to cytokine levels and presence or absence of viral infections. RA patients with active B19V infection had the highest levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), which may contribute to the development of RA. In the case of OA, the TNF-α level was higher in patients with active persistent B19V infection, suggesting that B19V reactivation affects also OA. Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 levels were higher in RA patients with latent HHV-6/-7 infection in comparison with active HHV-6/-7 infection, whereas in OA patients levels of all studied cytokines were very variable, ranging from low to high but without significant differences. This suggests that also latent HHV-6 and -7 viral infections can promote development of RA.
Distribution of HLA Allele Frequencies in Patients with Cystic and Alveolar Echinococcosis in Latvia
Authors: Laivacuma Sniedze , Eglīte Jeļena , Derovs Aleksejs , Vīksna Ludmila
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between HLA Class II alleles in two groups of patients in Latvia: patients with cystic and alveolar echinococcosis. The study included 37 patients from the Rīga East Clinical University Hospital with echinococcosis (29 patients with cystic echinococcosis and eight patients with alveolar echinococcosis) and 100 healthy control persons without echinococcosis. HLA Class II allele genotyping was performed using Real-time polymerase chain reaction–sequence specific primer (RT-PCR-SSP). The odds ratios (OR), with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), were calculated using statistical analysis performed with IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0, to evaluate the risk of developing the disease in an individual having a particular HLA genotype. In the case of cystic echinococcosis a more severe course of a disease can be anticipated in the presence of HLA-DRB1 alleles *17:01 and *07:01, -DQB1 *03:02, and *03:01, -DQA1*04:01 and haplotypes HLA-DRB1*04:01/-DQB1*03:01/ -DQA1*03:01, HLADRB1*11:01/ -DQB1*03:01 /-DQA1*05:01. However, in the group with alveolar echinococcosis it was associated with the HLA-DRB1 alleles *17:01 and *07:01, -DQB1 *05:01 and haplotypes HLA- DRB1*17:01/-DQB1*02:01-2/-DQA1*01:01, HLA-DRB1*11:01/ -DQB1*03:01/-DQA1*01:03 and HLA-DRB1*11:01/-DQB1*03:01/-DQA1*03:01. HLADRB1*15:01/-DQÂ1*06:02-8/-DQA1*05:01 and HLA-DRB1*13:01/-DQB1*02:01-2/-DQA1*05:01 haplotypes were protective in all patient groups. The limitations of this exploratory study indicate that a broader study needs to be conducted for revealing specific risk and protective HLA Class II haplotypes for patients with cystic and alveolar echinococcosis in Latvia.
Clinical Characterisation of Rota Virus Infection Associated with Most Commonly Circulating Genotypes in Children Hospitalised in Children’s University Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study in Latvia
Authors: Laizāne Gunta , Ķīvīte Anda , Grope Ilze , Smane Liene , Miklaševics Edvīns , Ozoliņa Laura , Gardovska Dace
Published: July 2019

In developed and developing countries, most cases of acute gastroenteritis in children are caused by viruses, and rotaviruses are known as the leading cause. The aim of our study was to estimate the main circulating serotypes of rotavirus before the introduction of routine immunisation in Latvia, and to search for their possible correlation with clinical symptoms and circulating genotypes. A cross-sectional study was carried out among children who had been hospitalised in the Children’s Clinical University Hospital from April 2013 to December 2015. Genotyping was done for 462 stool samples. Among G/P combinations, the most predominant genotypes were G4P[8] (61.3%), G9P[8] (12.4%) and G2P[4] (10.0%) in children of age < 5 years, G4P[8] (45.5%), G2P[4] (18.2%), G9P[8], G3P[8], and G1P[8] (9.1%) in children of age > 5 years. There was a statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) between clinical signs (vomiting, dehydration, chronic diseases) and G1P[8] and G8P[8] genotypes. Infants infected with genotype G4P[4] had a statistically significant negative correlation with severity of acute gastroenteritis episodes (p < 0.05). We detected nine different rotavirus G genotypes, and two different P genotypes. G4P[8], G9P[8], and G2P[8] were predominant. We observed correlation between the dominant genotypes and clinical manifestations of rotavirus infection.
Synovitis in Osteoarthritic Patients: Morphological and Virological Evidence of its Contribution to Development of the Disease
Authors: Tarasovs Mihails , Skuja Sandra , Semenistaja Sofija , Murovska Modra , Groma Valērija
Published: July 2019

The role of inflammation in the development of osteoarthritic joint degeneration is not completely understood. Recent data suggest that processes that cause and orchestrate inflamed synovial lesions may be implicated in the development of the disease. The morphological changes of the synovium in patients with osteoarthritis (OA), as well as the level of synovial inflammation cautiously graded, in association to the presence of human parvovirus B19 (B19V) infection markers, were evaluated. Qualitative and quantitative detection of B19V genomic sequence was performed in OA and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) groups. The expression of CD68, S100 (Ca2+ binding proteins soluble in 100% ammonium sulfate) and B19 VP1/VP2 capsid proteins found in the synovium were investigated by single and double immunolabeling, whereas fine features of synoviocytes — by electron microscopy. One-third of OA and RA patients demonstrated synovial expression of B19V antigen, which was confirmed in both types of synoviocytes. The overall expression of B19V in OA patients was weaker than that found in RA subjects. Positive correlation between B19V-positive vascular endothelial cells, sublining infiltrating lymphocytes, macrophages, and B19V-positive synoviocytes was established. No correlation between synovitis score indices as well as the expression of S100 and expression of B19V was found. The results suggest that the synovial membrane maintains local joint homeostasis, and that virus mediated synovitis is implicated in the development of OA.
Incremental Role of Pathological Personality Traits in the Prediction of Suicidal Ideation in General and Psychiatric Inpatient Sample
Authors: Perepjolkina Viktorija , Ļubenko Jeļena , Koļesņikova Jeļena , Mārtinsone Kristīne , Stepens Ainārs
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of the pathological personality traits in predicting suicidal ideation, especially in combination with other risk factors, such as the level of depression, prior attempts of suicide, low self-esteem, low level of perceived social support and self-esteem-by-social support interaction, both in general and in psychiatric inpatient samples. Data were analysed within two samples: non-clinical general sample (n = 461) and psychiatric inpatient sample (n = 131). Latvian Clinical Personality Inventory (LCPI) was used as the instrument for data collection. LCPI is a comprehensive multi-scale multi-item inventory, which consists of nine clinical scales (including Depression Symptom Scale), 33 pathological personality scales, five functioning scales, and five additional scales, including a Suicidal Ideation Scale, Low Self-esteem Scale and Lack of Perceived Social Support Scale. Results of the hierarchical regression analysis showed that several facet-level pathological personality traits (depressivity, self-harm, dissociation proneness, submissiveness, and suspiciousness) added significant incremental variance to the prediction of suicidal ideation above and beyond the well-known main risk factors of suicidal ideation, such as depression and prior suicide attempt. This effect remained stable even after taking into account additional interpersonal risk factors, such as low self-esteem, low level of perceived social support and self-esteem-by-perceived social support interaction. The incremental effect of personality traits was medium in the psychiatric inpatient sample and small in the general sample. Findings of the study may assist in early screening for persons with suicide risk and for developing prevention programmes in different settings.
Antiplatelet Resistance in Patients with Atherosclerosis
Authors: Locāne Sintija , Pūcīte Elīna , Miglāne Evija , Millers Andrejs , Novasa Arina , Ieviņa Renija , Muravska Tatjana
Published: July 2019

Variable platelet response to aspirin and clopidogrel is a well-known phenomenon in patients with coronary artery disease and ischemic cerebral stroke. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the frequency and possible risk factors of antiplatelet resistance in patients with cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. The VerifyNow system was used to evaluate adenosine-5-diphosphate and platelet P2YI2 receptor function in patients with cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease, who received dual antiplatelet therapy. Aspirin resistance was defined as aspirin reaction units (ARU) ≥ 550. Clopidogrel resistance was defined as Platelet Reaction Units (PRU) > 230. In the group of cerebrovascular diseases there were 13.2% (n = 27) patients with aspirin and 24.5% (n = 50) with clopidogrel resistance. However, in the cardiovascular group there were 20% (n = 9) aspirin and 11.1% (n = 5) clopidogrel resistant patients. In the cerebrovascular group, aspirin resistant patients had a lower triglyceride level (p = 0.001, r = 0.26) than aspirin sensitive patients. Clopidogrel resistant patients had a significantly higher level of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1C) (p = 0.016, r = 023), triglycerides (p = 0.033, r = 0.16) and lower level of high-density lipoproteins (p = 0.027, r = 0.16) than clopidogrel sensitive patients. In the cardiovascular group, patients who were resistant to aspirin had a significantly higher high-density lipoprotein level (p = 0.038, r = 0.31). No other factors differed significantly between the aspirin or clopidogrel resistant and sensitive patients in the cardiovascular group. Aspirin resistance was more common in patients with cardiovascular disease, and clopidogrel resistance in patients with cerebrovascular disease, although the difference was not significant. Our findings indicate that diabetes mellitus and an elevated level of lipoproteins could be risk factors for aspirin or clopidogrel resistance in patients with cerebrovascular diseases. Further studies should be conducted using larger patient cohorts with balanced groups of patients to investigate clinical aspects of antiplatelet resistance.
Association of Non-Invasive Markers of Liver Fibrosis with HCV Coinfection and Antiretroviral Therapy in Patients with HIV
Authors: Koļesova Oksana , Eglīte Jeļena , Koļesovs Aleksandrs , Krūmiņa Angelika , Ekšteina Ilze , Madelāne Monta , Vīksna Ludmila
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the main effects and interaction between viral hepatitis C (HCV) coinfection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) by using a nonparametric ANOVA on direct and indirect markers of liver fibrosis in HIV-infected patients. The sample included 178 HIV patients aged from 23 to 65 (36% females). The following parameters were determined in blood of patients: hyaluronic acid, pro-matrix metalloproteinase-1, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and platelet count. The FIB-4 index was also calculated. The nonparametric ANOVA revealed no significant interaction between HCV coinfection and ART. This provides evidence for an independent contribution of each factor on promotion of the pathology. The results also demonstrated that the direct and indirect indicators of liver fibrosis are associated differently with the studied factors. Therefore, a combination of markers should be used for monitoring of liver fibrosis in HIV-infected patients.
Price Convergence in the Regional Housing Markets in Poland
Authors: Żelazowski Konrad
Published: July 2019

Average prices of residential real estate usually show significant variation on a regional basis. This reflects different social, economic or historical conditions for the development of these markets. In addition, research so far has not provided strong evidence supporting convergence in the level of property prices in the regional dimension. The lack of price convergence, however, does not exclude convergence in the direction and strength of price changes.

The article is an attempt to answer the question of whether price trajectories in the regional housing markets in Poland show long-term similarity. To this end, econometric analysis of the dynamics of relative prices in the voivodship markets with the use of quarterly data from the years 2002-2016 has been conducted.
Housing Needs of Older People in Poland as Exemplified by the Warsaw, Poznań and Szczeciń Urban Areas
Authors: Iwański Rafał , Rataj Zuzanna , Cieśla Agnieszka
Published: July 2019

Due to an ageing population, local governments are facing new challenges in the field of addressing the housing needs of older people. Seniors are not a homogeneous group; three basic categories may be distinguished in terms of independence level and the resulting needs. The first category would include independent people, the second one - the elderly with limited independence, and in this case it is necessary to adapt their dwellings to the needs of people with partial disabilities, e.g. dedicated housing. The last category is comprised of people with considerable dependence for whom there is a need to create special dwellings such as sheltered housing or assisted living housing. The aim of this paper is to diagnose the housing preferences of the elderly and to explore the solutions of the selected municipalities in the field of addressing the housing needs of seniors. The issue is analyzed based on desk research and information collected within field research in the Warsaw, Poznań and Szczecin urban areas.