bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensory and Motor Visual Functions in Parkinson’s Disease with Respect to Freezing of Gait Symptoms
Authors:   Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, M Alhassan
Published: February 2023

Freezing of gait (FOG) is considered to be a motor disorder symptom that affects some Parkinson Disease (PD) patients; however, it is hypothesized that sensory systems may also be involved in FOG. This review article summarizes the results from previous studies focusing on visual functions in PD patients. More emphasize will be focused on freezing of gait PD patients and whether visual functions are affected to greater amount among them than non-freezing of gait PD patients. Visual functions include high contrast visual acuity, low contrast visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, Vernier acuity, mesopic vision, stereopsis, motion perception, and vergence eye movements are all affected in PD patients, with FOG patients having more deficits in some of these functions. FOG patients also had larger impairments in non-dopaminergic mediated functions such as pupil light reflex and visual processing speed test, which suggests that FOG patients have greater impairment in two functions that involve cholinergic neurotransmitters. Whether these impairments are contributing to the FOG or just associated with FOG is uncertain.
PERGESERAN MAKNA KOSAKATA FLORA DALAM METAFORA DI MEDIA SOSIAL TWITTER: KAJIAN SEMANTIK
Authors: Dilivia Ailsa Zevaulima , Febriyanto Lukman , Ginanjar Bakdal
Published: February 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan pergeseran makna istilah penunjuk flora bawang, terong, kentang, kacang, kencur, dan cabe di media sosial Twitter. Penelitian ini berjenis deskriptif kualitatif. Data penelitian ini berupa kalimat yang mengandungÂ  istilah bawang, terong, kentang, kacang, kencur, dan cabe di media sosial Twitter. Sumber data penelitian ini adalah unggahan pada media sosial Twitter dalam rentang waktu dari bulan Juli hingga September 2022. Metode penyediaan data yang digunakan adalah metode simak dengan teknik catat. Metode analisis data yang digunakan adalah metode agih yang dilanjutkan dengan teknik ganti. Hasil analisis data akan disajikan dengan metode informal. Berdasarkan hasil analisis data, disimpulkan bahwa makna baru yang terbentuk akibat adanya pergeseran makna kata penunjuk flora cenderung bersifat peyoratif dibandingkan dengan amelioratif.
Novel inhibitors of microtubule organization and phragmoplast formation in diverse plant species
Authors: Kimata Yusuke , Yamada Moé , Murata Takashi , Kuwata Keiko , Sato Ayato , Suzuki Takamasa , Kurihara Daisuke , Hasebe Mitsuyasu , Higashiyama Tetsuya , Ueda Minako
Published: February 2023

Cell division is essential for development and involves spindle assembly, chromosome separation, and cytokinesis. In plants, the genetic tools for controlling the events in cell division at the desired time are limited and ineffective owing to high redundancy and lethality. Therefore, we screened cell division–affecting compounds inArabidopsis thalianazygotes, whose cell division is traceable without time-lapse observations. We then determined the target events of the identified compounds using live-cell imaging of tobacco BY-2 cells. Subsequently, we isolated two compounds, PD-180970 and PP2, neither of which caused lethal damage. PD-180970 disrupted microtubule (MT) organization and, thus, nuclear separation, and PP2 blocked phragmoplast formation and impaired cytokinesis. Phosphoproteomic analysis showed that these compounds reduced the phosphorylation of diverse proteins, including MT-associated proteins (MAP70) and class II Kinesin-12. Moreover, these compounds were effective in multiple plant species, such as cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and moss (Physcomitrium patens). These properties make PD-180970 and PP2 useful tools for transiently controlling plant cell division at key manipulation nodes conserved across diverse plant species.
Three-dimensional growth reveals fine-tuning of 5-lipoxygenase by proliferative pathways in cancer
Authors: Göbel Tamara , Goebel Bjarne , Hyprath Marius , Lamminger Ira , Weisser Hannah , Angioni Carlo , Mathes Marius , Thomas Dominique , Kahnt Astrid S
Published: February 2023

The leukotriene (LT) pathway is positively correlated with the progression of solid malignancies, but the factors that control the expression of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO), the central enzyme in LT biosynthesis, in tumors are poorly understood. Here, we report that 5-LO along with other members of the LT pathway is up-regulated in multicellular colon tumor spheroids. This up-regulation was inversely correlated with cell proliferation and activation of PI3K/mTORC-2– and MEK-1/ERK-dependent pathways. Furthermore, we found thatE2F1and its target geneMYBL2were involved in the repression of 5-LO during cell proliferation. Importantly, we found that this PI3K/mTORC-2– and MEK-1/ERK-dependent suppression of 5-LO is also existent in tumor cells from other origins, suggesting that this mechanism is widely applicable to other tumor entities. Our data show that tumor cells fine-tune 5-LO and LT biosynthesis in response to environmental changes repressing the enzyme during proliferation while making use of the enzyme under cell stress conditions, implying that tumor-derived 5-LO plays a role in the manipulation of the tumor stroma to quickly restore cell proliferation.
First Observations on Bats in the Virgin Cave (Chekanovskogo Cave, East Siberia)
Authors:   Irkutsk State Medical University, Botvinkin A. D. , Osintsev A. V ,   Irkutsk Regional Branch of the Russian Geographical Society, Kazakov D. V. ,   Tyumen State University, Shumkina A. P. ,   Irkutsk State University, Tiunov M. P. ,   Scientific Center of the East Asia Terrestrial Biodiversity FEB RAS
Published: February 2023

The cave was mapped by A. Chekanovsky in 1873, but until 2018 it was not visited by people, as it is located in a sparsely populated and difficult to access area. To date, it has been established that this is a complex karst labyrinth with a length of more than 3 km, located in the mountain taiga about 50 km northwest of Lake Baikal (Olkhonsky district of the Irkutsk region). In 2019-2021 the first data on bats (Chiroptera) were collected in the Chekanovsky Cave. Visual observations were carried out at the entrance and inside the cave, 40 bats were caught with mist nets, subfossil remains of bat skeletons (n=1041) were collected. 7 species of bats were found, including 3 species included in the Red Book of Irkutsk region. The frequency of finds based on the results of identifying subfossil skulls was: Plecotus ognevi (78.9%), Murina hilgendorfi (10.5%), Myotis sibirica (10.5%), Myotis ikonnikovi (5.0%), Myotis frater (1.1%), Eptesicus nilssonii (0.3%), Myotis petax (0.1%). Only the first three species are represented in net catches: P. ognevi (81.6%), M. hilgendorfi (12.1%), M. sibirica (2.1%). The modern habitat of M. ikonnikovi and E. nilssonii in the cave was established from photographs and finds of recently dead animals. A group M. hilgendorfi (n=13) that looked sick were discovered in a cave in August 2021. Single specimens of bats of at least 4 species were found in a state of hibernation when examining the cave in late autumn and winter. Signs of swarming were noted in autumn. The discovery of a large number of skeletal remains of bats and the presence of several species of bats in different seasons of the year indicate that the cave has served as an important refuge for these animals for a long time. The cave has not been completely covered and is promising as an object for further scientific research. The results of the first observations of bats are considered as an argument in favor of a positive decision to give the Chekanovsky Cave area the status of a specially protected natural area of regional significance.
Modern Knowledge of the Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Pulmonary Fibrosis Formation
Authors:   Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, NAS of Ukraine, Department of Hypoxia. 4, Bogomoletz Str., Kyiv 01024, Ukraine, Shapovalova A. S.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study was to analyze literary sources on the study of modern views on information about the pathogenetic mechanisms of the formation of pulmonary fibrosis. Materials and methods. Analytical and bibliosemantic methods were used in the research. During the scientific search, 39 sources of modern domestic and foreign literature were reviewed and analyzed. Results and discussion. Pulmonary fibrosis is a heterogeneous group of chronic, progressive and incurable interstitial lung diseases characterized by scar formation and irreversible destruction of the lung parenchyma and is accompanied by disorders of elasticity and gas exchange in pathologically altered areas. The mechanism of development of pulmonary fibrosis is determined by its root causes. There are three distinct pathologic patterns of pulmonary fibrosis: usual interstitial pneumonia, fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia, and airway fibrosis. Their morphological differences are based on the distribution of fibrosis (diffuse or spotty) and anatomical location. The development of pulmonary fibrosis in most cases is a consequence of a previous acute inflammation of the lungs caused by various etiological factors, which in the case of untimely started or incorrectly selected treatment causes the deposition of fibrous tissue in the lungs. It is believed that the appearance and subsequent progression of pulmonary fibrosis can be attributed to reparative processes after repeated injuries of alveolar epithelial cells in response to various stimuli, including injuries. Loss of function or reduction in the number of alveolar epithelial cells can lead to improper repair of the lung parenchyma, which can lead to fibrosis. Various cytokines such as transforming growth factor-β1, tumor necrosis factor-α, and platelet-derived growth factor can be released when alveolar epithelial cells are damaged. These cytokines can promote the accumulation of fibroblasts. In addition to the cytokine response, the lung’s response to injury includes the stimulation of myofibroblasts, which when activated serve as the primary collagen-producing cell. This leads to massive deposition of collagen and subsequently affects the normal structure and function of lung tissue. Conclusion. Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease that leads to morpho-functional restructuring of lung tissue. In the course of the work, the presence of three models of the development of pulmonary fibrosis were analyzed. Despite the long history of study and good coverage of the problem in the scientific literature, currently the mechanisms of formation of pulmonary fibrosis remain insufficiently studied
Metabolic Status in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease and Obesity with Different Genotypes of Leptin Receptor Gene (Arg223Glu)
Authors:   Kharkiv National Medical University, Department of Internal Medicine No. 2, clinical Immunology and Allergology Named after Academician L.T. Malaya. 4, Nauky Ave., Kharkiv 61001, Ukraine, Kadykova O. , Borovyk K. , Ryndina N.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study was to assess the metabolic status, namely carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, in patients with coronary heart disease and obesity with different genotypes of the leptin receptor gene (Arg223Glu). Materials and methods. The study included 220 patients with coronary heart disease and obesity. The comparison group consisted of 113 patients with coronary heart disease with normal body weight. The control group included 35 healthy individuals. Additionally, patients with coronary heart disease and obesity were divided into subgroups depending on the genotype of the leptin receptor gene (Arg223Glu): the first subgroup included carriers of the A/A genotype (n=57), the second – G/A genotype (n=90), the third – G/G genotype (n=73). Results and discussion. The analysis of carbohydrate metabolism depending on the genotypes of the leptin receptor gene (Arg223Gln) in patients with coronary heart disease and obesity showed that carriers of the G/G genotype have more pronounced disorders of carbohydrate metabolism in the form of hyperinsulinemia and decreased tissue sensitivity to insulin while carriers of the genotypes G/A and A/A have greater resistance to glucose-metabolic disorders. Body mass index in carriers of G/G genotype had the highest value, which is 19.19% and 19.53% more than in carriers of genotypes G/A and A/A. Thus, the G/G genotype in patients with coronary heart disease and obesity was associated with body mass index. The impaired lipid metabolism in patients with coronary heart disease in combination with obesity was defined as hypertriglyceridemia, which is associated with the G/G genotype of the leptin receptor gene polymorphism (Arg223Gln). The results obtained in our work indicate the involvement of the polymorphic locus of the leptin receptor gene (Arg223Gln) in the formation of disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, which corresponds to the literature. It has been suggested that structural changes in the leptin receptor gene are associated not only with the development of obesity but also with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Conclusion. The features of the combined course of coronary heart disease and obesity were identified: hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance are associated with the G allele and G/G genotype of the polymorphic locus Arg223Gln leptin receptor gene (r=0.76, p<0.05); the rearrangement of the lipid spectrum due to hypertriglyceridemia is influenced by the homogeny of the G allele of the polymorphic locus of the Arg223Gln gene of the leptin receptor gene (r=0.73, p<0.05)
Prediction of the Course of Multiple Sclerosis Based on the Clinical Features of the Debut in Patients of the Poltava Region
Authors:   Poltava State Medical University, Department of Nervous Diseases. 23, Shevchenko Str., Poltava 36011, Ukraine, Pinchuk V. A. , Delwa M. Yu. , Hryn K. V.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study was to demonstrate the importance of studying variants of the debut of multiple sclerosis, to reveal the dependence of the rate of progression on the clinical picture of the debut of multiple sclerosis by examining patients and retrospective analysis of clinical data. Materials and methods. The study analyzed 60 cases of relapsing-remitting and secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis in patients who were undergoing inpatient treatment in the neurological department of the communal enterprise “M. V. Sklifosovskyi Poltava Regional Clinical Hospital of the Poltava Regional Council” from 2019 to 2021. Complaints, anamnestic data, results of a complex clinical and neurological examination of patients with multiple sclerosis at the onset and throughout the course of the disease were studied. The diagnosis was established according to Mac-Donald criteria. The severity of clinical manifestations was assessed using the Extended Disability Scale. Results and discussion. The rate of disease progression was assessed retrospectively. The ratio of the number of the Extended Disability Scale points at this moment to the duration of the disease in years was studied. In the group of patients with a monosymptomatic debut, the rate of progression was: 0.64 in women, 1.2 in men. In patients with an acute polysymptomatic onset, the values of the rate of progression were 0.7 and 2.1, respectively. As a result of the retrospective analysis, several options for the onset of multiple sclerosis were identified: monosymptomatic, polysymptomatic, patients with a radiologically isolated syndrome, and patients with a characteristic clinical picture, but without pathological changes on magnetic resonance imaging. One of the most frequent clinical manifestations of the debut in patients in the Poltava region was sensitive disorders. It is worth noting that special attention should be paid to the study of vibration sensitivity. When collecting anamnestic data, it is necessary to clarify the presence of Lhermitte syndrome. The rate of progression of multiple sclerosis was found to be higher in male patients with polysymptomatic onset and motor disturbances, between the first symptoms (patient complaints) and the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis from 3 months to several years. Conclusion. The presented research results can be useful for neurologists, general practitioners, radiologists and doctors of other specialties for early diagnosis, prescribing pathogenetic treatment of multiple sclerosis and predicting its course. Prospects for further research are related to the monitoring of clinical observations of multiple sclerosis with the aim of improving diagnostic, therapeutic and rehabilitation measures
National Mortality Tendencies of Population in Ukraine and the Kharkiv Region
Authors:   Kharkiv National Medical University, Public Health and Health Protection Department. 4, Nauki Ave., Kharkiv 61022, Ukraine, Mishchenko M. M.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study was to determine national tendencies of mortality in Ukraine and the Kharkiv region. Materials and methods. Data from official sources of statistical information of Ukraine were used and systematic analysis and generalization of the obtained data was performed and tendencies of mortality in Ukraine were calculated. Results and discussion. According to the dynamics of mortality rates of the population of Ukraine in 2010–2019, there was a decrease in almost all nosological forms of disease. For some groups of diseases there was a tendency of increasing mortality per 100 thousand population with tendencies for the general population +3.0% and +3.9%, for men +3.4% and +1.1% and women +2.2% and 8.3%. Obtained results on the overall dynamics of declining tendencies in mortality due to major diseases in recent years and their growth due to some nosologies and structural characteristics of the main causes of mortality are in complete agreement with other studies. The study noted an increase in tendencies of mortality of population of Ukraine in 2010–2019 (per 100 thousand population) in several disease groups: neoplasms (tendency +3.0%: males +3.4 %, females +2.2%) and diseases of digestive system (respectively +3.9%: +1.1% and +8.3%). The Kharkiv region leads among other regions in 2019 in such classes: overall – 3rd place (40,611 cases), diseases of the circulatory system – 2nd (28,079), coronary heart disease – 2nd (21,154), diseases of the digestive system – 2nd (1,624), external causes of death – 2nd (2,225), neoplasms – 3rd (5,714), cerebrovascular disease – 4th (5,009), diseases of the respiratory system – 4th (810), diseases of the genitourinary system – 4th (196) and congenital malformations, deformities and chromosomal abnormalities – 4th (69). Significant increase in tendencies found in the Kharkiv region during 2018–2019 both in absolute counts and per 100 thousand: complications of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum period (+300.0 and +293.8%), certain conditions that occur in the perinatal period (+14.3 and +24.3%), other causes (+13.8 and +14.5%) and urolithiasis (+12.0 and +12.9%) with defined structural characteristics of mortality in diseases of the circulatory system (69.09%), neoplasms (14.04%) and accidents and trauma (5.26%). Conclusion. The obtained results of the general dynamics of decreasing mortality tendencies due to major diseases and their growth due to some nosologies and structural characteristics of the main causes of mortality in Ukraine completely coincide with the data of other studies
Assessment of Functional Disorders of the Upper Limbs in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors:   National University of Water and Environmental Engineering, Department of Medical and Biological Disciplines. 24, Volynska Str., Rivne 33018, Ukraine, Nogas A. O.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study was to assess functional disorders of the upper limbs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire. Materials and methods. To assess the functional status of the affected upper limbs of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire was used, which consists of two scales: the Symptom Severity Scale and the Function Status Scale, which were filled out by the patients themselves. The study was conducted on the basis of rheumatology department of the Municipal Enterprise “Yuriy Semeniuk Rivne Regional Clinical Hospital” in Rivne during the period from 2016 to 2018. 216 patients took part in the examination, of which 178 (82%) were women and 38 (18%) were men. The patients’ age is from 25 to 59 years old (average age is 46 ± 0.24). The inclusion criteria were: the presence of an established diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis based on the ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria, and in accordance with the Order of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine dated April 11, 2014 No. 263 “Unified clinical protocol of primary, secondary, of tertiary medical care and medical rehabilitation of patients with rheumatoid arthritis”, the presence of informed consent of patients to participate in the study. Patients' rights were respected in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki “Ethical Principles of Medical Research Involving Human Subjects” developed by the World Medical Association, “Universal Declaration of Bioethics and Human Rights (UNESCO)”. Results and discussion. During the initial examination, it was found that the majority of patients had moderate (20.3%) and severe pain (16.6%) in the affected upper limbs (hands / wrists), which in the last two weeks had caused the patients to wake up at night: once – 10.6% of patients, 2–3 times –15.7% of patients. During the day, 20.3% of patients complained of moderate pain in a hand / wrist, and 17.5% of people were bothered by severe pain. The majority of patients (15.7%) noted that the pain lasted from 10 to 60 minutes. As for functional disorders, the greatest difficulties for patients occurred when buttoning clothes – 45.3%, doing household chores – 39.8%, and opening a bottle – 36.1% of patients. Manifestation of local symptoms of damage to the carpal tunnel affects the general physical and psychological condition of the patient. The patient loses work capacity, concentration, and the quality of his / her life decreases. Conclusion. Considering the above results, we are convinced of the need to implement the concept of physical rehabilitation/therapy, which would be able to reduce the level of existing functional disorders and improve the quality of life for patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Effectiveness of Correction of Sarcopenia Signs in Elderly People with Knee Arthroplasty
Authors:   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Department of Physical Therapy, Ergotherapy. 57, Shevchenko Str., Ivano-Frankivsk 76018, Ukraine, Petruniv Kh. V. , Lapkovskyi E. Y.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed physical therapy program on the parameters of sarcopenia in elderly people with total knee arthroplasty in the remote period after surgery. Materials and methods. During the research, 80 elderly people were examined. The control group consisted of 13 men and 15 women who did not undergo total endoprosthetic surgery of the joints of the lower limbs, without signs of sarcopenia. The comparison group consisted of 11 men and 16 women with total knee arthroplasty and diagnosed sarcopenia with low therapeutic (rehabilitation) compliance with the active rehabilitation intervention recommended based on the results of the initial examination. The main group consisted of 9 men, 16 women with total knee arthroplasty and diagnosed sarcopenia with a high level of therapeutic (rehabilitation) alliance regarding the active rehabilitation intervention recommended by the results of the initial examination. For them, a 6-month long physical therapy program was developed and implemented, which included the following elements: therapeutic exercises, functional training, massage of the lower limbs and lower back, kinesiological taping of the operated limbs; dietary recommendations; patient education. The effectiveness of the program was evaluated by the dynamics of the grip strength indicators, the Edmonton Frail Scale, and the SarQoL questionnaire. Results and discussion. In elderly patients with knee arthroplasty and sarcopenia, low strength (according to the value of grip strength), subjective physical weakness, difficulties in performing activities of daily living (according to the Edmonton Frail Scale questionnaire), were revealed, which led to a deterioration in the quality of life (according to the SarQoL questionnaire). The developed physical therapy program revealed a statistically significantly better effect on strength indicators, the state of physical weakness and quality of life parameters in comparison with the initial indicators for all studied parameters (р <0.05). Low rehabilitation compliance in elderly patients with knee arthroplasty and sarcopenia, despite being aware of the risks of this polymorbidity, was associated with a lack of improvement over a similar follow-up period. Conclusion. Elderly patients with the consequences of total knee arthroplasty and sarcopenia require the development of physical therapy programs taking into account and correcting the specifics of each condition, the presence of physical status disorders and impaired performance of activities of daily life, which increases the quality of life of this contingent of patients
Using the Latest Means in Physical Therapy of Patients with Ischemic Stroke
Authors:   National Technical University of Ukraine Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, Department of Biosecurity and Human Health. 37, Pobedy Ave., Kyiv 03056, Ukraine, Ripka A. O. , Khudetskyy I. Yu. , Antonova-Rafi Yu. V. , Kurilo S. M.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of the study was to develop a physical therapy program for people after an ischemic stroke at the inpatient recovery stage and describe its effectiveness. Materials and methods. The following effective and objective methods of assessing the functional state of patients after ischemic stroke were used in the study: analysis of special scientific and methodical literature, clinical and instrumental research methods (survey, Berg balance scale, VAS, MMT Lovett, Cross-out test stars, Stand and Walk Test, 10-meter test, Rivermead Index, Modified Rankin Scale, Montreal Cognitive Dysfunction Scale, Hospital Depression and Anxiety Scale), methods of mathematical statistics. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed program of physical therapy for patients with ischemic stroke, a study was conducted of 20 patients, aged 45-65, at the inpatient rehabilitation department. The proposed method contributes to the restoration of balance, coordination and gait speed, muscle strength, activity in everyday life, level of self-care, cognitive abilities, reduces pain syndrome, severity of neglect, level of depression and anxiety. The presented materials can be used in the process of activity of specialized medical, rehabilitation and health facilities, medical centers, as well as for practical study by students of higher educational institutions specializing in “Physical therapy, occupational therapy”. The study was conducted from November 2021 to November 2022 in the department of physical and medical rehabilitation of Kyiv City Clinical Hospital No. 6, which provides scheduled specialized medical care to patients with neurological and orthopedic pathologies. Results and discussion. 20 patients were evaluated, 10 patients were assigned to the main group and 10 – to the control group. The initial indicators of the studied parameters in patients of both groups did not differ statistically significantly (p>0.05). The age group of patients is from 45 to 65 years old. The effectiveness of rehabilitation largely depends on the individual program developed by a professional. The basis of the programs is an individual approach and the patient's return to the most fulfilling life and adaptation in society. Positive results of rehabilitation are possible only with a comprehensive approach to restoring lost functions. Conclusion. Based on the obtained results of the study of the control and main groups, it can be concluded that the addition of mirror gymnastics, kinesiotherapy in the rehabilitation cage, postisometric relaxation, myostimulation of the plegic muscles and ideomotor exercises to the classical program of physical therapy for patients after ischemic stroke is an effective way to combat progression of this disease
Trust as an element of social capital and factor of economic growth
Authors:   Central Asian University Almaty, Akberdiyeva Akerke ,   WSB University in Gdańsk, Faculty of Computer Science and New Technologies, Antczak-Jarząbska Romana ,   WSB University in Gdańsk, Faculty of Computer Science and New Technologies
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Organizations nowadays are increasingly using a nondisclosure agreement to protect against the dissemination of certain information by employees. However, such methods have not always been successful, especially since a pandemic. Therefore, the aim of the article is to present the main trust factors. Identification of trust-building factors in the organization in order to increase efficiency and reduce indirect costs, as well as conduct theoretical analysis on this topic. Design/methodology/approach: The synthesis method and the analytical and comparative concept of building staff motivation were used. The theoretical analysis in the text is based on research that can be found in Polish, English and Russian literature. Findings: The article shows that by engaging the right disciplines it become possible to achieve absolute trust, which in turn serves as the key to effective work. Research limitations/implications: Building an atmosphere of trust begins with ways of learning, sharing information and knowledge while meeting the needs of the trusted person. Therefore, in future research on trust in the area of management, it is necessary to take into account the point of view of the related disciplines mentioned in the article. Social implications: A conscious desire to build organizational trust leads to an increase in work efficiency and a decrease in corrupt practices. Ultimately, this will lead to increased meaning of trust in business. Originality/value: A model of trust levels and their impact on work performance has been developed. The article can be used by the management as a guide to creating employee motivation systems. Keywords: employee career development, trust in an organization, factors of trust, cooperation.
Talent management in Polish companies in the light of empirical studies
Authors:   University of Bielsko-Biala, Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, Dudzik-Lewicka Irena
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The aim of the paper is the introduction of talent management practices that are applied in Polish companies in the context of effectively identifying, developing and retaining talent within the company. Design/methodology/approach: The approach applied in the paper is of descriptive-empirical nature. The research methods involved in this paper are: induction, deduction, literature studies, as well survey and data analysis. Findings: On the basis of the analysis of the research material - in the conclusion - recommendations are presented for Polish companies to implement the practices of talent management programs talents. Research implications: Future research directions should focus on further extended research exploration in this area, taking into account various companies, both small, medium and large. Practical implications: The presented research results (from 2006 to 2018) make an important contribution to the existing knowledge on building and implementing talent management programs in a company and have a number of practical implications mainly for HR professionals. Social implications: Building awareness of talent management issues in the company. Originality/value: The research findings and opinions have both theoretical and practical implications, which can be used to shape and optimize management practices with regard to talent employees. The work has cognitive value for managers, HR departments, people managing human resources, as well as for people interested in the topic of talent management and employee development. It may also be of interest to academics, providing them with a source of inspiration for research work. Keywords: talent, talent management, human capital, Polish companies. Category of the paper: research paper.
Dynamics of network relations: how organizations exploit inter-organizational networks to gain set
Authors:   General Tadeusz Kościuszko Military University of Land Forces, Flieger Marcin
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The main scientific purpose of this article is to identify the way organizations exploit network relations’ features in order to gain set benefits, from the dynamic perspective of achieving another levels of network collaboration maturity. Design/methodology/approach: Conceptual development and positioning of the research aim at providing a generalizable contribution to management science, at the same time being accessible to practitioners. The research was carried out using the interpretive method of a multiple case study, following its methodological rigor. It was divided into two stages: within- case analysis and cross-case analysis. According to the replication logic, case studies constitute series of independent research which provide data corresponding with set research questions. Findings: The conducted research shows that as a part of a network organizations gain various types of benefit and its character evolves as the collaboration achieves another levels of maturity. At the same time, along with the evolution of the reasons for developing network collaboration, organizations exploit different features of network relations, in order to maximize the benefit. Practical implications: The research leads to presenting a pattern of exploiting network relations’ features in order to gain set benefits. The identified template serves as a tool for practitioners and allows more conscious planning and developing the interactions with business partners. Consequently, it supports maximizing benefits from the network collaboration as it achieves another levels of maturity. Originality/value: The author adopts a dynamic perspective to the problem of intentional creation of network relations in order to gain set benefits. In the literature still very little attention is put on understanding the reasons for network development and the evolution of network relations’ features as organizations achieve another levels of network maturity. Therefore, the author focuses on filling this gap by deepening the analysis of the network trend and increasing efficiency of realized tasks from the egocentric perspective of a network member. Keywords: network, network collaboration, network relations’ features, dynamics of network. Category of the paper: Research paper.
Impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on management. remote work – new challenges for employees and companies
Authors:   Silesian University of Technology, Faculty of Organization and Management, Gembalska-Kwiecień Anna , Milewska Elżbieta ,   Silesian University of Technology, Faculty of Organization and Management
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The purpose of the article is to discuss issues related to remote work. The article is addressed to all persons who recently had to switch to remote work. Remote work is a novelty for many people. Just like every change, it often triggers adverse reactions, including fear, anxiety and reluctance. The article explores this type of work, presenting both its advantages and disadvantages. It summarises drawbacks and merits of remote work for both companies and individual employees. Moreover, it outlines challenges faced by companies and associated with the remote work system. Design/methodology/approach: Literature research of the subject was carried out. Findings: According to the data of OECD, we are currently one of the hardest working nations of Europe. However, this makes apparent the adverse trend related to remote work – a lot of overtime. This is a proof that many employees are unable to draw the line between their professional life and private life, with a significant harm to the latter. Therefore, the problem must be explored further. However, with a high degree of probability, where remote work proves to be effective, companies will combine remote and office work by deploying a hybrid work model. Such a solution is advantageous from both social – it is important for employees to experience team work and feel that they belong to a group – and well-being – isolation is often harmful for mental health – point of view. Practical implications: A modern organisation, corporation or company is an entity that quickly and decidedly responds to changing market needs. Every employee must be able to use modern technologies. Such skills turned out to be a necessity to perform tasks and professional duties, since use of cutting-edge technologies is a foundation of remote work. Originality/value: A holistic view on the issue of remote work from the perspective of employees for whom it is a novelty. Presentation of certain hazards associated with remote work along with its undeniable advantages for employees and employers. Keywords: company management, remote work, pandemics, human factor. Category of the paper: General review.
Motivational aspects of remote working – a generation z perspective
Authors:   Częstochowa University of Technology, Albrychiewicz-Slocinska Anna
Published: February 2023

Purpose: This article aims to present the results of a survey on young people’s views on remote working concerning selected aspects of motivation. Design/methodology/approach: Many employees remember the Covid-19 pandemic period as a forced shift to remote work and a significant experience with all its advantages and disadvantages. After many months of operating in a new professional reality, employers and employees got used to working under new conditions. Still, more importantly, this period marked a new trend in the labour market by opening institutions to this way of working. This issue was addressed in a 2021/2022 student survey. Its main objective was to explore the relationship between young people’s remote learning experiences and their preference for remote working. The data were analysed using the STATISTICA software, and the Kruskal- Wallis rank ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U and Pearson’s chi-square tests were applied. Findings: The results show that remote working is becoming increasingly important and that hybrid work is recommended, regardless of whether the demotivating aspects of remote working are known or perceived. Practical implication: When analysing the percentage distribution of responses to individual questions, it can be seen that respondents’ answers on the motivational or demotivational aspects of remote working were mainly in line with the literature. However, an in-depth analysis that considers the significance tests of the differences between the individual independent variables requires a more thorough look at the results obtained. Originality/value: As Generation Z is entering the labour market it is important information for future employers, as it will be difficult to build a message for this generation that will encourage future employees to work stationary based on rational premises regarding the advantages and disadvantages of remote or hybrid work. Keywords: Generation Z, remote work, motivation. Category of the paper: Research paper.
Do non-cash payments affect economic growth? Empirical evidence from EU countries
Authors:   Departament Corporate Finance, Institute of Finance, University of Lodz, Grzelczak Marlena , Soliwoda Michał ,   Departament Corporate Finance, Institute of Finance, University of Lodz
Published: February 2023

Purpose: to assess the impact of traditional forms of non-cash payments on economic growth measured by real GDP per capita in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and Western Europe. Design/methodology/approach: the following research hypothesis was formulated: the impact of non-cash payments on economic growth is stronger in Central and Eastern European countries than in Western European countries. The research hypothesis was verified based on empirical analysis of panel data for the years 2005-2018 for the CEE and Western European countries. The following 10 CEECs participated in the research: Slovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Slovenia and eight countries from Western Europe: France, Austria, Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Ireland, the United Kingdom. Findings: in CEECs the value of transactions with payment cards had the largest impact on economic growth – an increase in the value of transactions using this payment instrument by one percentage point causes real GDP per capita increase by 0,23 percentage point. On the other hand, an increase in the value of transactions using credit transfers by one percentage point increased real GDP per capita by 0,10 percentage point. the direct debit transactions had a positive impact on the explained variable in the CEE countries – real GDP growth by 0,06 percentage point. Research limitations/implications: The results of the empirical study, likewise in literature, indicated a significant, positive impact of non-cash payments on real GDP per capita growth. The impact on real GDP per capita is only effective for the CEE countries. In Western European countries the level of non-cash transactions reached a certain level of saturation. That was a proved by ineffective iterations performed on various functional forms of the econometric model on panel data. In the group of CEE countries, the value of transactions with payment cards has the greatest impact on real GDP per capita. Originality/value: analysis of current literature on the impact of non-cash payments on economic growth and an empirical analysis. Keywords: household financial management, non-cash turnover, economic growth, real GDP per capita, public management. Category of the paper: Research paper.
Increasing effectiveness of management in foodservice sector through dynamic delivery pricing model
Authors:   Department of Consumer Research, University of Economics in Katowice, Kantor Angelika , Kubiczek Jakub ,   Department of Economic and Financial Analysis, University of Economics in Katowice
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the foodservice sector's activities have not only been limited but have also experienced a change – increase in demand for online order and delivery of food. Thus, improving the cost-effectiveness of food delivery is not so much as recommended, as it is necessary. Design/methodology/approach: The aim of this study is to propose a dynamic model of delivery valuation. Using SWOT analysis, the significance of delivery presents itself as a factor influencing competitiveness. An IDI with suppliers allowed for the identification of weaknesses in the current delivery price models. Subsequently, a dynamic price model, based on the possibility of usage of publicly accessible data, was proposed. Findings: Fixed delivery costs can reduce revenues and generate losses in the event of a high fluctuation in fuel prices. Therefore, it is crucial to properly evaluate delivery costs, taking into account not only the distance, but also other variables. The key factors of delivery costs include: one-time cost for the courier’s course, distance, opportunity cost of a given delivery expressed as the possibility of making another delivery defined as delivery time. It should be emphasized that it ought to be determined by the volume of traffic at a given moment. Originality/value: The proposed model provides solutions for the foodservice industry, allowing for optimization of delivery costs. The implementation of the dynamic model in a new market sector can be described as an innovation, which could help not only entrepreneurs, but also customers. Keywords: foodservice sector, online order, food delivery, dynamic pricing model. Category of the paper: Research paper.
Patterns in corporate trade credit management: insights into the Polish trade sector
Authors:   University of Gdańsk, Faculty of Management, Koralun-Bereźnicka Julia
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The study identifies the intra-industry and cross-size regularities in corporate trade credit policies of Polish firms operating in the trade sector. It aims to verify whether the intra- industry effect is more likely to affect corporate trade credit behaviour than the firm size effect. Design/methodology/approach: The research is based on yearly data from the ECCBSO trade credit database for three trade industry sub-sections (motor vehicle trade, wholesale trade and retail trade) and four size groups in the period 2005-2017. The rich collection of variables employed enables detailed insights into the corporate trade credit management practices. Methods include the analysis of variance, cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling. Findings: Findings provide evidence that both size-related features and intra-industry specificity are significant determinants of corporate trade credit behaviour. The study also reveals that the industrial breakdown of trade firms into sub-sections is of greater importance in comparison to the size-based classification of firms. Research limitations/implications: The dataset employed in the research offers aggregated information instead of firm-level data, which inevitably reduces the information resource, but also ensures data harmonisation and comparability. Narrowing the research to just one industrial section in Poland makes the study specific. Further investigation of the patterns in trade credit could be directed at other industries and (or) other countries. Practical implications: The reported findings might be of interest to those involved in corporate finance management. Recognising the differences in receivables and payables management resulting mainly from the intra-industry specificity can contribute to a better understanding of business financing and its operational functioning. This knowledge may support the effective management of receivables and liabilities, especially in companies operating in developing countries. Originality/value: The study contributes to the existing literature mainly through the application of the multi-sectional approach to private companies, covering the dimension of time, firm size and industry sub-section. This offers grounds for detailed multi-layered conclusions in terms of corporate trade credit behaviour in the Polish trade sector. Keywords: trade credit, intra-industry effect, firm size, trade sector, classification methods. Category of the paper: Research paper.