bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Brief Cognitive Monitoring in Multiple Sclerosis Patients in Latvia / Kognitīvo Funkciju Monitorings Multiplās Sklerozes Pacientiem Latvijā
Authors: Mekša Līga , Karelis Guntis , Vainšteine Lana , Svilpe Sandra , Gulbe Gundega , Gudreniece Anželika , Kalniņa Jolanta 
Published: May 2018

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

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

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

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

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

Abstract
The main aim of this study was to evaluate how local pairs of kites behave in the vicinity of two wind farms located in the same region (Saxony, Germany) and at farms which are to be re-powered. We observed three pairs that had located their nests close to active wind farms (a few hundred to 1500 m from the wind farm). Special attention was focused on variation in the intensity of flights and its dependence on the local landscape and to active avoidance of existing wind turbines. Observations were made at the end of the breeding time, when the young were still in the nest and shortly after fledging. Despite the short observation periods, the results seem to show clearly how differentiated the flight patterns of these birds are in relation to the landscape features around the farm. The distance from the nest to the wind farm cannot be the only measure of the level of potential wind-farm-related danger to the birds nesting close to the farm site.
Distribution of flights is not random, but clearly concentrated on defined target hunting areas, while other directions are visited infrequently. In the case of both farms, the farm was rarely crossed by the Black Kites (9.9% of all flights) and very rarely (2.8%) by the Red Kites, and such crossing was observed only while the turbine rotors were not in motion or when the rotors were turning slowly (below 5 turns/min.). It may be advisable to conduct special monitoring of movement patterns at breeding time if kite nests are found close to the planned location of the wind farm.
Philosophical and Pedagogical Principles of Transnational Higher Education Development
Authors: Leshchenko Maria , Avshenyuk Nataliya 
Published: May 2018

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abstract
Oleic acid has many beneficial effects on human health. One of the main dietary sources of oleic acid is olive oil. Non-Mediterranean European countries, including Serbia, have low habitual olive oil consumption, but other vegetable oils also contain different amounts of oleic acid. In infants and young children milk is the most important source of fatty acids, including oleic acid. Furthermore, fatty acid composition of plasma phospholipids reflects dietary intake and fatty acid metabolism. In patients with serious chronic diseases fatty acid status is altered independently on the intake. Here we reviewed status of oleic acid in healthy persons as well as in patients with different chronic diseases in Serbia.
From Religion to Dialectics and Mathematics
Authors: Achtner Wolfgang 
Published: May 2018

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

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

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