bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An analysis of the spatial distribution, influence and quality of urban green space – a case study of the Polish city of Tczew
Authors: Senetra Adam , Krzywnicka Iwona , Mielke Marcin
Published: December 2018

Rapid urban growth can exert negative effects on the natural environment due to the loss of naturally vegetated areas, loss of biological diversity, deforestation and soil erosion. The condition of cities is inherently linked with the natural environment which has a positive influence on health, social relations, human welfare and economic activity. Urban areas should abound in green spaces, and should also be easily accessible to the general public. The aim of this study was to determine the spatial distribution, influence and quality of urban green spaces on the example of the city of Tczew in northern Poland. The proposed methodology can be applied in cities of a similar size and urban structure to promote rational management of urban green space in line with the principles of sustainable development and spatial order. The Green-Space Record, a useful tool for inventorying urban green spaces, was developed to pursue the main research goal. The information accumulated in the Record constitutes valuable input data for further analysis, including the determination of the area, distribution, influence and quality of urban green spaces. The results of the analysis revealed that urban green spaces occupy more than 19% of Tczew’s territory, which is equivalent to 70.6 m2 per resident. Managed green spaces span the area of only 66.75 ha (11.31 m2 per resident) and are unevenly distributed in the city. More than half of these areas are found in the Stare Miasto (Old Town) district, whereas two residential districts (Gdańska, Prątnica) are completely devoid of public greens. The quality of urban green spaces is generally satisfactory in Tczew; however, not all residents have equal access to high-quality public greens.
Approaches to poverty measurement in BRICS: a reflection on economic reality (the case of Brazil, China and Russia)
Authors: Massarova Alena , Potapenko Maria
Published: December 2018

Poverty eradication is an urgent task set by the world community in the Millennium Development Goals. Studying the success of Brazil, China and Russia as regional leaders in reducing poverty is of great scientific and practical interest for economic geographers in terms of typological peculiarities as well as the approaches and tools used. The article highlights the main features of modern countries’ social and economic development which contributed to poverty reduction or inhibited the process in the past several decades. It reveals the similarities and differences in the approaches to poverty measurement in three BRICS countries (Brazil, China and Russia) that showed the biggest progress towards poverty eradication and presents a comparative analysis of poverty research and measurement methods used at the national level.
Poverty, segregation and social exclusion of Roma communities in Slovakia
Authors: Rochovská Alena , Rusnáková Jurina
Published: December 2018

This paper examines the issue of poverty and social exclusion of Roma in Slovakia. It highlights the problem of poverty among Roma communities, which together with segregation leads to absolute poverty and social exclusion. Based on ethnographic research the paper examines conditions in which inhabitants of segregated Roma communities sustain their livelihoods. In the qualitative part of our research we ask how inhabitants of segregated settlements organize and manage their livelihood and what strategies and practices they use to ensure social reproduction. Further, we assess the articulations between exclusion and social networks and other spheres of assets, including formal and informal labour, state benefits and the use of material assets. We argue that spatial segregation has an enormous impact on poverty.
Determinant of love of money and organization ethics environment implication to earnings management behavioural perceives
Authors: Wany Eva , Yuliarini Sarah , Karjati Pratiwi Dwi
Published: December 2018

This study which aims to test the effects of love of money and the ethical environment of the organization on perception of earnings management behavior with 2x2 factorial experimental research with quasi experiment design. Data collection techniques that used in this study was questionnaire and distributed to participants in university. The result showed that, there are differences among individuals in who has a high levels of love of money and a low levels of love of money in perception of earnings management behavior; and there are differences between a company’s condition that has a high internal control elements (organizational ethical environment) and in company condition where there is no internal control elements (organizational ethical environment) is low in perception of earnings management behavior; and there are interaction between love of money and ethical environment of the organization on perception of earnings management behavior.
Dacryocystitis Caused by Lymphoproliferative Infiltration in the Course of Lymphocytic Lymphoma: Case Report
Authors: Pál Szilvia , Fișuș Andreea Dana , Pop Doina , Pakucs Annamária , Benedek István , Horváth Karin
Published: December 2018

Background: Lacrimal drainage system lymphomas are rare, accounting for less than 10% of lacrimal sac tumors. They often appear as a secondary involvement within the confines of systemic lymphoproliferative disorders, therefore detailed ophthalmological examination and auxiliary testing is necessary to have an accurate diagnosis.

Case report: We present the case of a 72-year-old woman with a medical history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma. She presented to the ophthalmology clinic with a painful, discharging swelling in the right lacrimal sac area. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass in the right nasolacrimal duct. A right external dacryocystorhinostomy was performed. The histological findings led to a diagnosis of small lymphocytic lymphoma.

Conclusions: Special attention is required in cases of known systemic hematological disorders that associate with nasolacrimal duct obstruction or epiphora. Quick recognition and a full history with multidisciplinary clinical and diagnostic workup are fundamental to plan the treatment.
Epicardial Adipose Tissue Role as a Marker of Higher Vulnerability in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Nyulas Tiberiu , Morariu Mirabela , Rat Nora , Marton Emese , Rus Victoria Ancuta , Ratiu Mihaela , Benedek Theodora , Benedek Imre
Published: December 2018

Background: Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) has been recently identified as a major player in the development of the atherosclerotic process. This study aimed to investigate the role of EAT as a marker associated with a higher vulnerability of atheromatous coronary plaques in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) as compared to patients with stable angina.

Material and methods: This analysis enrolled a total of 89 patients, 47 with stable angina (SA) and 42 with AMI, who underwent echocardiographic investigations and epicardial fat measurement in 2D-parasternal long axis view. The study lot was divided as follows: Group 1 included patients with prior AMI, and Group 2 included patients with SA.

Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding cardiovascular risk factors, excepting smoking status, which was recorded more frequently in Group 1 as compared to Group 2 (36.17% vs. 11.63%, p = 0.02). The mean epicardial fat diameter was 9.12 ± 2.28 mm (95% CI: 8.45–9.79 mm) in Group 1 and 6.30 ± 2.03 mm (95% CI: 5.675–6.93 mm) in Group 2, the difference being highly significant statistically (p <0.0001). The mean value of left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly lower in patients with AMI (Group 1 – 47.60% ± 7.96 vs. Group 2 – 51.23% ± 9.05, p = 0.04). EAT thickness values showed a weak but significant positive correlation with the level of total cholesterol (r = −0.22, p = 0.03) and with the value of end-systolic left ventricle diameter (r = 0.33, = 0.001).

Conclusions: The increased thickness of EAT was associated with other serum- or image-based biomarkers of disease severity, such as the left ventricular ejection fraction, end-systolic diameter of the left ventricle, and total cholesterol. Our results indicate that EAT is significantly higher in patients with acute coronary syndrome, proving that EAT could serve as a marker of vulnerability in cardiovascular diseases.
The Effect of Periplaque Fat on Coronary Plaque Vulnerability in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease – a 128-multislice CT-based Study
Authors: Raț Nóra , Opincariu Diana , Márton Emese , Zavate Ramona , Pintican Mirela , Benedek Theodora
Published: December 2018

Background: The role of periplaque fat (PPF), as a fragment of the total epicardial adipose tissue, measured in the vicinity of a target coronary lesion, more specifically within the close proximity of a vulnerable plaque, has yet to be evaluated.

The study aimed to evaluate the interrelation between PPF and coronary plaque vulnerability in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Secondary objective: evaluation of the relationship between the total pericardial fat and markers for plaque vulnerability.

Materials and methods: We prospectively enrolled 77 patients with stable CAD, who underwent 128-multislice computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA), and who presented minimum one lesion with >50% stenosis. CTCA analysis included measurements of: total pericardial fat and PPF volumes, coronary plaque characteristics, markers for plaque vulnerability – positive remodeling (PR), low attenuation plaque (LAP), spotty calcifications (SC,) napkin ring sign (NRS). Study subjects were divided into two categories: Group 1 – 1 marker of plaque vulnerability (n = 36, 46.75%) and Group 2 – ≥1 marker of vulnerability (n = 41, 53.25%).

Results: The mean age of the population was 61.77 ± 11.28 years, and 41 (53.24%) were males. The analysis of plaque characteristics showed that Group 2 presented significantly longer plaques (16.26 ± 4.605 mm vs. 19.09 ± 5.227 mm, p = 0.02), remodeling index (0.96 ± 0.20 vs. 1.18 ± 0.33, p = 0.0009), and vessel volume (p = 0.027), and more voluminous plaques (147.5 ± 71.74 mm3 vs. 207.7 ± 108.9 mm3, p = 0.006) compared to Group 1. Group 2 presented larger volumes of PPF (512.2 ± 289.9 mm3 vs. 710.9 ± 361.9 mm3, p = 0.01) and of thoracic fat volume (1,616 ± 614.8 mm3 vs. 2,000 ± 850.9 mm3, p = 0.02), compared to Group 1, but no differences were found regarding the total pericardial fat (p = 0.49). Patients with 3 or 4 vulnerability markers (VM) presented significantly larges PPF volumes compared to those with 1 or 2 VM, respectively (p = 0.008). There was a significant positive correlation between PPF volume and the non-calcified (r = 0.474, 95% CI 0.2797–0.6311, p <0.0001), lipid-rich (r = 0.316, 95% CI 0.099–0.504, p = 0.005), and fibro-fatty (r = 0.452, 95% CI 0.2541–0.6142, p <0.0001) volumes. The total pericardial fat was significantly correlated only with the volume of lipid-rich plaques (p = 0.02).

Conclusions: Periplaque fat volume was associated with a higher degree of coronary plaque vulnerability. PPF was correlated with lipid-rich, fibro-fatty, and non-calcified plaque-related volumes, as markers for enhanced plaque vulnerability. PPF volume, assessed with native cardiac computed tomography, could become a novel marker for coronary plaque vulnerability.
The Effect of Epicardial Fat on the Right and Left Ventricular Function in Subjects with Various Etiological Types of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Raț Nóra , Opincariu Diana , Blendea Ciprian , Cucuruzac Roxana , Mirela Pirvu , Chitu Monica , Benedek Imre , Benedek Theodora
Published: December 2018

Background: Little is known on the effect of epicardial fat in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Therefore, the present study sought to perform a comparative analysis on the influence of epicar-dial fat thickness (EFT) on the right and left ventricular function, between three different etiological varieties of pulmonary arterial hypertension: caused by congenital heart defects (atrial septum defects with left to right shunt), by systemic sclerosis, and by myocardial ischemia.

Materials and Methods: This is a prospective observational study on

50 patients with documented PAH (systolic pulmonary artery pressure – PASP of >35 mmHg). The thickness of the epicardial adipose tissue was evaluated by 2D cardiac ultrasound, on the free wall of the right ventricle, during end-diastole, in the long parasternal axis view. The patients were divided into three study groups: Group 1 – PAH determined by congenital heart defects with left to right shunts (atrial septum defects, n = 25); Group 2 – PAH induced by systemic sclerosis (n = 12); Group 3 – PAH induced by myocardial ischemia (n = 13).

Results: The average age was 54.48 ± 10.78 years, 30% (n = 15) of subjects were males, with a mean body mass index of 24.65 ± 4.40 kg/m2, EFT was 9.15 ± 2.24 mm, and the PASP was 41.33 ± 5.11 mmHg. Patients in Group 3 were more likely to smoke (p = 0.025) and presented a significantly lower LVEF, compared to the other groups (Group 1: 60% ± 6 vs. Group 2: 60% ± 7 vs. Group 3: 48% ± 7, p <0.0001). The largest EFT was found in Group 3 (11.08 ± 2.39 mm), followed by Group 2 (9.14 ± 2.03 mm), and Group 1 (8.16 ± 1.57 mm) (p = 0.0003). The linear regression analysis found no significant correlations between EFT and other echocardiographic parameters: PASP (r = −0.228, p = 0.118), LVEF (r = −0.265, p = 0.06), TAPSW (r = 0.015, p = 0.912), TEI (r = 0.085, p = 0.552), RVEDD (r = −0.195, p = 0.173), RA area (r = −178, p = 0.214), and LA diameter (r = 0.065, p = 0.650).

Conclusions: Epicardial fat thickness was found to be significantly higher in patients with PAH induced by myocardial ischemia, followed by those with systemic sclerosis and congenital heart defects, respectively. EFT did not influence the echocardiographic parameters for left and right ventricular function in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension of different etiologies.
Laparoscopic Versus Conventional Open Surgery for the Treatment of Bilateral Inguinal Hernias
Authors: Élthes Előd Etele , Cozlea Alexandra Lavinia , Dénes Márton , Borz Cristian , Sárdi Kálmán , Páll Orsolya , Török Árpád
Published: December 2018

Objective: To evaluate and compare laparoscopic and conventional open procedures for bilateral inguinal hernia surgical repair, using clinical, intraoperative, and postoperative criteria.

Methods: Forty-three patients with bilateral inguinal hernia were included in a retrospective study, between 2014–2017. All patients underwent conventional open or laparoscopic bilateral hernioplasty, and were divided into two groups: a conventional open group (COG) and a laparoscopy group (LG). Clinical, intraoperative, and postoperative outcomes were reviewed.

Results: In the laparoscopic hernioplasty group, there was a significantly shorter hospitalization period (p = 0.026), less postoperative pain (p = 0.03), and a prompt return to work (p = 0.043) compared to the conventional open procedure. On the other hand, patients who underwent hernioplasty with the Progrip-type synthetic mesh developed a lower pain score, an earlier return to work, and a quick start to normal physical activities in comparison with other mesh types used for the treatment of bilateral inguinal hernias. For patients who underwent conventional open procedure, there was a significantly shorter operating time (p = 0.042).

Conclusion: Laparoscopic bilateral inguinal hernioplasty is a time-consuming and technically demanding procedure. However, the current study underlines the benefits of this type of surgery. This technique presents comparable clinical, intraoperative, and postoperative results with the conventional open surgery.
Reliability-Economics Model of the Operation Process
Authors: Dąbrowski Tadeusz , Bednarek Marcin , Wiśnios Michał
Published: December 2018

The article is devoted to the illustration of the relationship of the operation system state assessment in the reliability and economic aspect on a type of information on the state of the object intended for the implementation of an operational task, on the reliability of this object, on the operational task properties (i.e. on the required effect size and the time for its manufacture), on the nature of relationships between a producer and a recipient of the effect. The proposed model of the operation system, as well as a model of the operation process and models of typical operational situations make it possible to find conclusions on a criterion of reliability and economic usability of the operation system.
Teaching Methodology of Diagnosis Process on the Example of Intrusion and Hold-Up Alarm System
Authors: Paś Jacek
Published: December 2018

The article presents a teaching methodology of the diagnosis process of the technical and functional condition of intrusion and hold-up alarm system (SSWiN). Laboratory model SSWiN is a representation of a real intrusion and hold-up system. The lecturer has the opportunity to ask a dozen different independent damages. The aim of the laboratory exercises is to familiarize students with the methodology and structure of the diagnosis SSWiN.
Reduction of Drag of SUV Similar to Tata Sumo Using Vortex Generator
Authors: Sardana Harsh , Singh Mahavir
Published: December 2018

The aim of this research paper is to reduce the drag of SUV by using a vortex generator and to calculate the pressure and turbulence profile across the vehicle. The Ahmed Reference Model is taken as a benchmark test. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation with and without vortex generator is performed at different velocities across the SUV similar to TATA Sumo. The performance of Vortex generator is analyzed at different velocities to obtain the particular velocity at which it will have the minimum value of drag. The end results are henceforth analyzed and a comparative study has been performed with the experimental data given by Gopal and Senthikumar on SUV. And finally it is found that the 10 % of drag reduction is achieved using vortex generator.
Fantasy Word Sounding in Marketing Phonosemantics
Authors: Danilchuk Maria
Published: December 2018

The paper represents the results of a linguistic experiment aimed at establishing if the sounding of different fantasy brand names can cause the same associations in collective consciousness. The experiment drew upon crowdsourcing. The data received can be useful for marketing phonosemantics in relation to the methods used for the creation of new brand names.
Frame Modeling of the Concepts of Life and Death in the English Gothic Worldview
Authors: Prihodko Anna , Prykhodchenko Oleksandra
Published: December 2018

The Gothic worldview is understood as a manifestation of the environment’s reflection in peoples’ thoughts, which shows the perception of real and unreal / supernatural worlds in their symbiosis and determines the human’s role in it. LIFE and DEATH are universal concepts of culture and most fully they can be shown in the form of frame, the main structural elements of which are ACTANTS, PREDICATES, QUANTIFIERS, PLACE, and TIME.
Towards an Encyclopaedia of Sequence Biology
Authors: Bolshoy Alexander
Published: December 2018

In this review, I have presented several topics relevant to the present state and to the future state of the scientific field that I propose to call sequence biology (SB). In some pertinent publications, this field was called DNA linguistics. At the heart of SB lies a concept of a sequence code. In this review, I discussed three concepts: a concept of SB, a concept of encyclopaedia of genetic codes, and a concept of a corpus DNA linguistics.
Analysis of the relationship between the enterprise and the environment in the context of managing the Relational Capital
Authors: Walecka Anna
Published: December 2018

The aim of the paper is to present how important is the management of relational capital and present the results of empirical research constituting a part of a pilot study on relational capital management by Polish enterprises.

They were conducted among managers of 82 enterprises operating in Poland. The research method was the diagnostic survey method (technique of the distributed questionnaire).

The findings of the conducted research indicate that the surveyed companies establish numerous relationships with various groups of stakeholders. These relationships are characterised by different frequencies and varying degrees of significance from the point of view of development of the surveyed companies. The relationships are established in an intentional manner as well as a result of exploiting emerging opportunities. RC management, however, is not a strong point of the surveyed companies.
Duo-ethnography as the Qualitative Inquiry in Small Family Business Research
Authors: Sułkowski Łukasz , Marjański Andrzej
Published: December 2018

The research methodology of family businesses is increasingly becoming the subject of scientific discussion that shows how difficult and complex task it is. Research area is located on the border of several disciplines, which raises significant methodological problems.

Qualitative methods are useful for studying the problems of small family businesses, in particular related to the sphere of issues of identity, culture, values and the relationship between the family and the company. Qualitative methods allow for more efficient acquisition of reliable data on ‘sensitive’ subjects in comparison with quantitative methods. It is equally important to provide information about the complex social processes that are better studied with open methods.

The methodology of qualitative research is not without its limitations. First of all, by definition it poses problems of generalization, and thus also theorizing. Research results are burdened with considerable subjectivity which can be transformed into inter-subjectivity by using different methods and perspectives.

In the qualitative studies of small family businesses methodological pluralism which allows the creation of mixed research programs can be postulated. Combining quantitative and qualitative methods in one research program may provide important, but not always commensurate results. One can also point to the need for methodological triangulation and therefore the use of different, complementary research methods and techniques that will allow to describe the studied small family company in its entire complexity. The example of duo-ethnography provides the possibility to achieve a high level of relational demands allowing for the creation of unique philosophy of the meeting, a deep entry into the unique history of the studied entity and ownership family and the adoption of prospects for the narrator and an expert person participating in the study.
Is there a Need for Agent-based Modelling and Simulation in Business Process Management?
Authors: Halaška Michal , Šperka Roman
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose: Agent-based modelling and simulation (ABS) is growing in many areas like, e.g., management, social and computer sciences. However, the similar trend does not seem to occur within the field of business process management (BPM), even though simulation approaches like discrete event simulation or system dynamics are well established and widely used. Thus, in our paper we investigate the advantages and disadvantages of agent-based modelling and simulation in the field of BPM in simulation experiments.

Design/Methodology/Approach: In our research, we investigate if there is a necessity for ABS in the field of BPM with our own simulation experiments to compare traditional and ABS models. For this purpose, we use simulation framework MAREA, which is a simulation environment with integrated ERP system. Our model is a complex system of a trading company selling computer cables. For the verification of our model, we use automated process discovery techniques.

Results: In our simulations, we investigated the impact of changes in resources’ behavior on the outcome of company’s order to cash process (O2C). Simulations experiments demonstrated that even small changes might have statistically significant effect on outcomes of the processes and decisions based on such outcomes. Simulation experiments also demonstrated that the impact of randomly distributed fluctuations of well-being have a diminishing tendency with the increasing number of sales representatives involved in the process.

Conclusions: Our research revealed several advantages and disadvantages of using ABS in business process modelling. However, as we show, many of them were at least partially addressed in the recent years. Thus, we believe that ABS will get more attention in the field of BPM similarly to other fields like, e.g., social sciences. We suggested areas in BPM simulations, e.g., modelling of resources, be it human or technological resources, where there is a need for ABS.
The Level of Disclosure in Annual Reports of Banks: The Case of Slovenia
Authors: Kolar Iztok , Falež Nina
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose: Many studies have explored the disclosures in annual reports of companies. Annual reports of banks differ significantly from annual reports of other business entities, particularly in terms of disclosed items. The aim of this article is to investigate the level of disclosures and which factors influence the level of disclosure in the annual reports of banks in Slovenia.

Design/Methodology/Approach: We have observed disclosures of all banks in Slovenia for year 2012 and 2015. The factors as used in the study are age, size, the government share, profitability and complexity of a bank. Our disclosure checklist consists of 144 voluntary and mandatory items. Statistical analysis is performed using linear regression analysis.

Results: The average score for banks in Slovenia is near 94 points or 63% of all possible disclosures. The results of analyses indicated positive associations and statistical correlations between the level of disclosure in annual reports and the size of a bank, the share of government ownership and negative statistical influence of the age of bank on the level of disclosure. Our results do not show statistically significant correlation between the level of disclosure and a bank’s profitability and complexity, which is against theory and findings from other similar research. Conclusion: In our opinion, results well reflect the Slovenian banking system and how banks reveal their information. Our finding is that banks in Slovenia provide less information to the public compared to the average companies in other branches or banks in similarly developed countries. The paper’s main contribution is to deepen our knowledge about disclosures in the bank’s annual reports and the answers what are the influential factors of disclosures for banks.
Some Aspects of Identity Politics of Kharkiv Local Authorities After 2013
Authors: Kutsenko Denys
Published: December 2018

The paper analyzes the transformation of identity politics of Kharkiv local authorities after the Euromaidan, or Revolution of Dignity, the annexation of Crimea, and the War in Donbass. Being the second largest city in Ukraine and becoming the frontline city in 2014, Kharkiv is an interesting case for research on how former pro-Russian local elites treat new policies of the central government in Kyiv, on whether earlier they tried to mobilize their electorate or to provoke political opponents with using soviet symbols, soviet memory, and copying Russian initiatives in the sphere of identity.

To answer the research question of this article, an analysis of Kharkiv city and oblast programs and strategies and of communal media were made. Decommunisation, as one of the most important identity projects of Ukrainian central authorities after 2014, was analyzed through publications in Kharkiv’s city-owned media as well as reports from other scholars. Some conclusions are made from the analysis of these documents: Kharkiv development strategy until 2020, Complex program of cultural development in Kharkiv in 2011–2016 (and the same for 2017–2021), The regional program of military and patriotic training and participation of people in measures of defense work in 2015–2017, Program of supporting civil society in 2016–2020 in Kharkiv region and the city mayor’s orders about the celebration of Victory Day (9 May), the Day of the National Flag (23 August), the Day of the City (23 August) and Independence Day (24 August) in 2010–2015.
Laicism: Polysemy of the Term and its Determining Functions
Authors: Dudała Rafał
Published: December 2018

The conducted analysis evokes the polysemous character of the concept of laicism, which was influenced by modern political and philosophical ideas. Two positions have determined this: a diachronic one encompasses laicism as a process extended in time, and a synchronous one allows one to perceive the simultaneity of phenomena. Thus, the concept itself reveals its practical value, especially in the context of these challenges, which affect both the state crisis and the changing relationship between the State and the Church. This value is confirmed by an important place in the secular research that is based on the principles of sovereignty, equality and separation. Th us, laicism postulated and implemented in the democratic system and its reference to fundamental values should support, above all, the importance of arguments, mutual persuasion and decision-making procedures based on consensus.
Therapeutic Potential of “Exosomes Derived Multiple Allogeneic Proteins Paracrine Signaling: Exosomes d-MAPPS” is Based on the Effects of Exosomes, Immunosuppressive and Trophic Factors
Authors: Harrell Carl Randall , Fellabaum Crissy , Markovic Bojana Simovic , Arsenijevic Aleksandar , Volarevic Vladislav
Published: December 2018

Due to their differentiation capacity and potent immunosuppressive and pro-angiogenic properties, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been considered as new therapeutic agents in regenerative medicine. Since most of MSC-mediated beneficent effects are a consequence of their paracrine action, we designed MSC-based product “Exosomes Derived Multiple Allogeneic Proteins Paracrine Signaling (Exosomes d-MAPPS), which activity is based on MSCs-derived growth factors and immunomodulatory cytokines capable to attenuate inflammation and to promote regeneration of injured tissues. Interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and IL-27 were found in high concentrations in Exosomes d-MAPPS samples indicating strong anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive potential of Exosomes d-MAPPS. Additionally, high concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR1) and chemokines (CXCL16, CCL21, CXCL14) were noticed at Exosomes d-MAPPS samples suggesting their potential to promote generation of new blood vessels and migration of CXCR6, CCR7 and CXCR4 expressing cells. Since all proteins which were found in high concentration in Exosomes d-MAPPS samples (IL-1Ra, CXCL16, CXCL14, CCL21, IL-27 and VEGFR1) are involved in modulation of lung, eye, and synovial inflammation, Exosomes d-MAPPS samples were prepared as inhalation and ophthalmic solutions in addition to injection formulations; their application in several patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoarthritis, and dry eye syndrome resulted with significant improvement of biochemical and functional parameters. In conclusion, Exosomes d-MAPPS, due to the presence of important anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and pro-angiogenic factors, represents potentially new therapeutic agent in regenerative medicine that should be further tested in large clinical studies.
Increased IL-33 and IL-17 in Colorectal Carcinoma Patients with Severe Disease
Authors: Maric Veljko , Jovanovic Milan , Zdravkovic Natasa , Jovanovic Marina , Gajovic Nevena , Jurisevic Milena , Jovanovic Marina , Jovanovic Ivan
Published: December 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents one of the most common cancers. It is frequently diagnosed at advanced stages, indicating on need for new diagnostic markers. The aim of this study was to determine systemic and fecal values of IL-17 and IL-33 in patients with CRC and the relationship with clinicopathological aspects of disease.

The blood samples and feces liquid fraction of 50 patients with CRC were analyzed. Serum and fecal levels of IL-33 and IL-17 were measured using sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits.

Fecal levels of Il-33 and IL-17 were increased in CRC patients with poor tumor tissue differentiation. Serum IL-33 and fecal IL-17 were increased in patients with presence of lung/liver metastasis or peritoneal carcinomatosis, respectively, while enhanced fecal IL-33 was detected only in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Positive correlation between IL-33 and IL-17 values in sera and feces, respectively was also observed.

We believe that increased local values of IL-33 and IL-17, reflected trough higher fecal concentration, in CRC patients with poor tumor tissue differentiation and with presence of lung/liver metastasis or peritoneal carcinomatosis may be considered as a sign of the tumor’s malignant progression and, consequently, of a poor prognosis for patients.
A Desperate Call for Process and Post-Process Approach in Lithuanian ESL Classrooms
Authors: Misevičiūtė Vaida
Published: December 2018

Technology has altered communication style from face to face to written communication. An increased participation in chats, blogs, and other forms of social media along with a growing trend to work from home or to study on-line has increased the need to perfect academic written communication. Lithuanian students who have been trained in product approach are in desperate need to enhance skills in creativity, self-expression, independence and criticality, skills that can be taught through a process or a post-process approach to writing. An overview of product, process, and post-process approach suggests that second language learners trained in process or post-process approach display significant advantages in academic writing compared to students trained in product approach. Writing has been neglected as a skill for several reasons in Lithuanian English classrooms, yet the demand for academic writing in today’s world is increasing in accelerated speed. Process and post-process approach provides necessary skills that have been highly neglected in ESL teaching in Lithuanian schools and universities.
Teaching Spanish in Secondary School of Lithuania: Possibilities and Challenges of Spanish Teacher in 21st Century
Authors: Savickienė Inga , Raščiauskaitė Laura , Jankauskaitė Aušra , Alešiūnaitė Loreta
Published: December 2018

Integration into the European Union, increasing communication and cooperation between countries have brought an extensive interest in foreign languages and the need for foreign language teaching and learning has been recognized by the developers of Lithuanian education policy as an inseparable component of personal development. Teaching and learning of Romanic languages in Lithuania have been popular, exceptional, though varied. French language teaching has old traditions in both formal and non-formal education; while teaching of other Romanic languages (Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, etc.) has not been legally regulated yet – teaching traditions have not been formed, there are no specific teaching syllabi and programs, a lack of methodology and experts in didactics. However, Spanish language learning in Lithuanian secondary education schools and gymnasiums is becoming more and more popular in the recent years. In Lithuanian secondary education Spanish is taught as the second and third foreign language or as an extra-curriculum activity in non-formal education. The analysis of scientific literature revealed a lack of scientific studies and publications not only about the teaching of Spanish but also comparative studies between Lithuanian and Spanish languages. Research into Spanish language teaching and learning indicates not only the increasing number of learners, but also the increasing awareness with regard to the importance and usefulness of Spanish language competence acquisition for international encounters. However, Spanish language teachers face challenges such as insufficient number of teaching hours in general education institutions, lack of qualified Spanish language teachers, insufficient provision with teaching and learning aids and other support material, no state examinations are organized which could help to determine the learners’ Spanish language competences as well as motivate learners to learn this Romanic language.
Genesis and Other Biblical Events Depicted in Postmodern Drama.
Authors: Petraru Ana-Magdalena
Published: December 2018

A complex person (novelist, playwright, screenwriter, translator), George Tabori, pen name of György Tábori, born in Budapest in 1914, was little acclaimed in North America where he spent twenty years of his life and left a mark on the German culture of the 20thcentury. Due to his cathartic black humour, he overcame the tragic experience of the Holocaust that took away from him almost all his family. Known in post-war drama especially by means of his anti-Hitler farceMein Kampf(1987) which he authored, directed and acted in, Tabori even took the East-German public by surprise with his special, yet less familiar perspective on history.1Mein Kampfwas the first play that had a Romanian staging, at Cluj; however,Die Goldberg-Variationen(1991), a real international success2, became known to our public at the theatre Radu Stanca in Sibiu under the same title and asGoldberg Showat the National Theatre of Iasi (TNI). Our aim, in this paper, is to analyse the biblical events in the play from a postmodern perspective as homage to the author’s contribution to the philological sub-field of Bible and literature, already consecrated by N. Frye’sGreat Codeand more recent studies.
Consideraciones generales sobre la invalidez en el Derecho Administrativo
Authors: Cano Campos Tomás
Published: December 2018

El presente trabajo pretende ofrecer una construcción conceptual y funcional de la invalidez de los actos en el Derecho administrativo que contribuya a salir del enredo conceptual en el que a veces estamos instalados, destaque adecuadamente sus elementos estructurales y ofrezca una explicación plausible de la aparente escisión entre las consecuencias de la invalidez y su proyección en el plano de la realidad. También se ocupa de las relaciones entre tiempo y validez, ensayando la posibilidad de una teoría de la invalidez sobrevenida.
An Exploration of Elements of Folklore in Ntuliâ€™s Translation of Mandelaâ€™s Long Walk to Freedom
Authors: Masubelele Rose
Published: December 2018

Â The telling of stories forms an integral part of human activities. It dominated pre-modern cultures and is still a human preoccupation today. All aspects of human life may be turned into a story, which may take one of many forms. Stories may be original creations in the language and culture in which they are told, or they may be derivedâ€”that is, they may be taken from another language and culture. Whatever the case, the people who are telling or retelling the story pattern the language they use in a manner that will arouse interest in their audience. It is against the backdrop of retelling stories that this article examines Ntuliâ€™s use of elements of folklore in his translation of Mandelaâ€™s Long Walk to Freedom. The elements to be explored in Ntuliâ€™s translation include proverbs and idioms. Gottschallâ€™s notion of The storytelling animal underpins the discussions in this article. Accordingly, the article demonstrates how the use of the elements of folklore helped the translator to adorn his work in order to assert his presence in the text and to relate the receptor to modes of behaviour relevant to their culture.Â
Народная и традиционная медицина: возможности интеграции медицинских систем, практик и методов в условиях современной Тувы
Authors: Kharitonova Valentina I.
Published: December 2018

В статье рассматриваются особенности функционирования «народной медицины» в Республике Тыва с учетом существующих законов и подзаконных актов. Источниковой базой стали немногочисленные публикации по вопросу развития и функционирования народной и традиционной медицины в Туве, многолетние полевые и лабораторные материалы автора и данные СМИ, интернет-источников.Анализируется классификация разных типов медицин (народной, традиционной, ТМС и др.). Указывается на особенности употребления терминов (комплементарная и альтернативная медицина; дополняющая и альтернативная медицина). Исследуются истоки и смысл терминов народное целительство, народный целитель, лекарь народной медицины.Автор рассматривает законодательные документы РФ и некоторых республик Сибири, где распространен шаманизм, демонстрируя специфику допуска различных практик лéкарства, целительства, оздоровления в систему здоровьесбережения на правовом уровне. На этом фоне затрагивается вопрос интеграции медицинских систем, практик и методов в различных субъектах Российской Федерации. Особое внимание уделяется ситуации, сложившейся в Республике Тыва, где сравнительно недавно был издан приказ министерства здравоохранения республики, также был создан Научно-исследовательский институт медико-социальных проблем и управления Республики Тыва, в структуре которого есть отдел народной медицины, социальной профилактики и реабилитации. При названном НИИ с 28 июня 2017 г. работает Центр народной медицины.
Народная медицина тувинцев глазами врачей (по материалам опроса врачей и другого медицинского персонала в Республике Тыва и соседних регионах)
Authors: Vyatkina Natalia A.
Published: December 2018

Количество обращений пациентов к различным формам традиционных лечебных и профилактических практик в Туве растет и в некоторых случаях конкурирует с медициной западной — биомедициной. Статья посвящена исследованию влияния широко распространенных в Туве различных традиционных лечебных, профилактических и шаманских практик на взаимоотношения врача и пациента. Материалами выступили результаты опроса 2018 г. 22 врачей разных специальностей в Республике Тыва, а также в близлежащих регионах — Республике Хакасия, Алтайском и Красноярском краях. Были собраны мнения о разнообразных формах традиционных лечебных практик и народного целительства, которые распространены в регионах России с сильным этнокультурным компонентом.Врачи соглашались на опрос на условиях анонимности и использовали самые разные термины для обозначения традиционных лечебных и профилактических практик, народного целительства. Все респонденты полагают, что применение альтернативных методов лечения не оправдано, первоочередным считают обращение к врачам. Все они верят в свое дело, в «настоящую» медицину. Причинами обращения пациентов к лекарям врачи называют: отсутствие эффекта от лечения в больницах, низкое качество предоставляемых там медицинских услуг, территориальная недоступность, дороговизна платных услуг, культурные особенности, семейные традиции и воспитание в Туве и близлежащих регионах и пр.Общее отношение к ним у врачей скептическое, хотя отдельные методы, например фитотерапии, медики не отвергают. Даже допускают применение подобных методов для себя и членов своих семей в домашних условиях или в специализированных учреждениях. Существенно отличаются мнения врачей Тувы, которые признают традиции культуры, в том числе и в лечении.
Missions, Unions, and Indigenous Organization in the Bolivian Amazon: Placing the Formation of an Indigenous Organization in Its Context
Authors: Sturtevant Chuck
Published: December 2018

This article explores oral histories about the foundation of the Mosetén Indigenous People’s Organization (OPIM) in Bolivia. In so doing it aims to add nuance to scholarship on Bolivian social movements from 1990 to 2010 by focusing on connections and continuities between indigenous organizations and the systems of political association that predate them. Efforts to organize Mosetén communities were spurred at least in part by indigenous desire to establish order within their communities and to resolve local problems. They adopted strategies associated with models of social organization that were already familiar to them, particularly the Franciscan missions and agrarian unions, and adapted them to meet their needs. This process involved ongoing interactions between Mosetén yearnings, a particular political and historical context, and the creative capacities of Mosetén leaders.
Gilles Deleuze: “O que é a filosofia?”. Uma recepção criativa desde a América Latina
Authors: Vivar Flores Alberto
Published: December 2018

Os filósofos latino-americanos  que  intentam pensar a América Latina, possivelmente, desde que G. W. F. Hegel denunciou que "Tudo o que ali sucede era apenas eco da Europa", tem-se preocupado com sua originalidade. Atualmente, por exemplo, Leopoldo Zea, Enrique Dussel, Arturo Andrés Roig, entre outros, dedicaram suas obras, em grande parte, a resolver tal problema. Essa crítica de Hegel ao pensamento latino-americano, me foi sugerida, também, pela leitura da obra de Gilles Deleuze e Félix Guattari intitulada "O que é a filosofia". De tal forma que, neste texto, realizamos uma recepção criativa desse livro, procurando aproveitar sua mensagem com relação ao problema não apenas do fazer filosofia na América Latina, mas do filosofar latino-americanamente.
Fundamentos ético-político-econômicos e preservação do meio ambiente: um estudo de caso em três ladeiras, Igarassu – PE
Authors: Pinho Souto Ricardo , Sousa Thais M.
Published: December 2018

A principal característica de uma sociedade baseada no lucro e crescimento ilimitado é o poder-dominação. Este ganhou corpo histórico-social através da tecnologia, sendo esta a forma primordial de relacionamento com a natureza. Esta atitude rompe com a solidariedade básica da interdependência e coloca a espécie humana numa posição de soberania com quem dispõe dos recursos que estão a sua volta. Este trabalho busca, portanto, provocar a reflexão quanto aos fundamentos ético-político-econômicos em detrimento à preservação efetiva da natureza e, através do estudo de caso em Três Ladeiras, Igarassu - PE, analisar os fundamentos discutidos. Na revisão bibliográfica, autores como Luiz Marques, Leonardo Boff e Gilberto Freyre foram priorizados devido suas influências em reflexões éticas quanto ao assunto proposto. Também foram utilizados trabalhos publicados em revistas. Tornou-se evidente a contradição ética estabelecida entre a origem e manutenção do pensamento humano, baseado no crescimento econômico, e sua relação com os povos e o meio ambiente. Conclui-se, portanto, que uma sociedade, fundada no crescimento dependente de recursos finitos, logo, está fadada ao fracasso, pois, além de explorar seu povo, esgota os recursos naturais, ferindo os direitos básicos e a soberania dos seres humanos e da vida em geral.
A instituição da Sociedade (e da Linguagem) a partir do Legein e do Teukhein no pensamento de Castoriadis
Authors: Perrusi Martha Solange
Published: December 2018

Neste artigo, fizemos um recorte para compreender a instituição imaginária da sociedade (e da linguagem) a partir dos conceitos de legein e teukhein, isto é, a partir do dizer / representar e do fazer / fabricar, veremos que os dois se relacionam e são interdependentes, mas que é possível pensar a sociedade em seu fechamento a partir do esquema operativo legein-teukhein, como também sua dinamicidade intrínseca, por conta da auto-instituição.