bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flower morphological diversity of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum Presl) in Matara District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Azad Rumana , Kumara K.L. Wasantha , Senanayake Gamini , Ranawaka R.A.A.K. , Pushpakumara D.K.N.G , Geekiyanage Sudarshanee
Published: August 2018

The cinnamon flowers exhibit protogynous dichogamy with 2 flower types “Type A” and “Type B” which first flowers during morning and evening respectively. This floral cycle causes a temporal barrier to the maintenance of elite breeding material and for hybridization with desired parents. Determination of variation in flower and inflorescence morphology can shed light on functional diversity in “Type A” and “Type B” flowers. In order to study these variations, a survey of cultivated cinnamon lands and wild habitats was conducted in fifteen locations in the Matara district. Peduncle length (PDL), flower length (FL), flower width (FW), and floral tube length (FTL) varied among cinnamon accessions collected. The variation in tepal shape was distinct: the two whorls of tepals of a single flower exhibited two shapes. The current investigation of differences in inflorescence, floral morphology and floral abnormalities of Cinnamomum verum provides information about their diversity, and recommends molecular analysis to further determine the genetic basis of two flower types in progynous dichogamy.
Vergleich von Wasser und Wasser-Glykol-Gemischen bei der Temperaturmessung
Authors: Brethauer Andreas , Fröhlich Thomas , Engels Elmar
Published: August 2018

In der Wärmeübertragung werden neben Wasser auch Wasser-Glykol-Gemische verwendet. Die Verwendung von Wasser-Glykol-Gemischen führt gegenüber Wasser zu veränderten Wärmeübertragungsbedingungen. Dies führt zu veränderten Bedingungen bei der Temperaturmessung und somit beispielsweise auch bei der Bestimmung der verbrauchten Wärmemenge. Dieser Beitrag untersucht den Einfluss der durch die Verwendung von Wasser-Glykol-Gemischen geänderten Wärmeübertragungsbedingungen. Dazu werden das statische und das dynamische Verhalten in der Temperaturmessung näher untersucht und es wird insbesondere ein erhöhter Einfluss auf das Ansprechverhalten eines Thermometers sichtbar. Zudem wird ein kalorimetrisches Verfahren, zur Bestimmung des Wärmeübergangs in Abhängigkeit des verwendeten Mediums, untersucht. Dies ermöglicht die Bestimmung der Temperaturverteilung eines Bads und die Simulation von Wasser-Glykol-Gemischen in Wasser durch Anpassung der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit.
Reliability and Validity of Seated Hip Extensor Strength Measurement by Handheld Dynamometer in Older Adults
Authors: Seko Toshiaki , Mori Mitsuru , Ohnishi Hirofumi , Himuro Nobuaki , Takahashi Yui , Kumamoto Tsuneo , Ito Toshikazu
Published: August 2018

Background and Purpose:

Muscle strength measurements with the handheld dynamometer are sometimes performed according to manual muscle testing. However, measuring hip extensor muscle strength in the prone position is difficult, since the some older adults have kyphosis or flexion contracture of the lower limbs. Alternatively, there is the standing position method of manual muscle testing, which accomodates those malalignments; however, it is known that the muscle strength of the lower limb that is not measured affects the measurement result. Hence, we devised the hip extensor strength measurement in a sitting position for healthy males in previous studies. This study examined the reliability and validity of the sitting measurement by a handheld dynamometer in older adults.

Methods:

Participants were 40 older adults (age [SD] = 82.4 [4.3] years). Measurements of isometric hip extensor muscle strength using a handheld dynamometer in 3 positions (sitting, standing, and prone) were conducted twice. A surface electromyogram was used to measure the activity of the gluteus maximus and the semitendinosus muscles. The reliability of muscle strength in each posture was examined with Cronbach α coefficient, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs1,1), and Bland-Altman analysis. The concurrent validity of muscle strength for the sitting and standing positions with reference to the prone position was examined with Spearman rank correlation and Bland-Altman analysis. Furthermore, muscle strength and muscle activity were compared between each posture.

Results:

The Cronbach α coefficient was 0.75. For each posture, the ICC1,1 was 0.86 to 0.87, with no systematic error in the sitting and prone positions. The sitting and standing positions were significantly associated with the prone position (r
s = 0.72 and 0.42), with no systematic error between the sitting and prone positions. Proportional error was demonstrated between the standing and prone positions (P < .01). There was no significant difference in muscle strength between any posture. Gluteus maximus muscle activity was significantly higher in the sitting versus standing position (P < .05).

Conclusion:

The measurement of hip extensor muscle strength in the sitting position is a reliable and valid method in older adults, which can be effective even when the prone position is not possible.
Study on the Application of Ultrasonic Wave in Foundation Settlement Monitoring
Authors: Wang Le-fan , Weng Xing-zhong , Li Ye , Guan Bo-wen , Yao Zhi-hua , Bo Qu
Published: August 2018

In view of the high cost and poor accuracy in monitoring the internal layered settlement of foundation soil mass, this study has introduced an ultrasonic ranging technique into the layered settlement monitoring of civil engineering foundations. It has also developed a special ultrasonic monitor capable of generating different frequencies (e.g., 200kHz, 400kHz). It has also selected two oscilloscopes that can match the frequencies, the pipe fitting materials, reflecting materials, and propagation mediums that are related to the burying of the ultrasonic monitoring system into a soil mass. After that, it has calibrated the propagation velocity of ultrasonic waves under different water temperatures, tested the ranging technique, and obtained an effective range of at least 45 m. Then, it has carried out actual measurement comparison and error analysis, which show that the accuracy of the ultrasonic monitoring system is in the order of millimeters. Finally, an indoor ultrasonic-monitored settlement simulation test has been carried out. The ultrasonic-monitored burying system has been buried into the soil mass, and the ultrasonic monitoring system has been used to measure the layered settlement of the soil mass after rolling compaction and compression. The comparison with the actual measurements shows that the measurements by the ultrasonic monitoring system are highly accurate. The ultrasonic monitoring system can therefore be used to monitor the settlement of foundation soil mass.
Innovation in Outcomes-Based Water Quality Policy: A Case Study from the Yahara Watershed, Wisconsin, USA
Authors: Wardropper Chloe , Gillon Sean , Rissman Adena
Published: August 2018

This case examines the risks and opportunities for stakeholders involved in an experimental water quality management program in Wisconsin, USA. This program pays for pounds of pollution reduced through soil conservation practices on farm fields and other high-runoff areas across the landscape—nonpoint sources of pollution—by redirecting funds from the sewerage plant and municipal point sources of pollution. Uncertain monitoring and modeling of pollution sources used for program payments and accountability create perceived and real risks to program participants and the environment, including the threat of regulatory enforcement, lost revenue, and failure to achieve environmental outcomes. On the other hand, in this case study, regulatory flexibility also opened a space for stakeholder dialog and programmatic cooperation that could lead to more adaptive and locally acceptable watershed pollution control in the future.
Clinical and biochemical characteristics of patients presenting with pituitary apoplexy
Authors: Abbara Ali , Clarke Sophie , Eng Pei Chia , Milburn James , Joshi Devavrata , Comninos Alexander N , Ramli Rozana , Mehta Amrish , Jones Brynmor , Wernig Florian , Nair Ramesh , Mendoza Nigel , Sam Amir H , Hatfield Emma , Meeran Karim , Dhillo Waljit S , Martin Niamh M
Published: August 2018

Purpose

To review the clinical and biochemical characteristics and clinical outcome of patients presenting with pituitary apoplexy to a tertiary centre.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical features, predisposing factors, biochemistry and clinical outcome of patients presenting with pituitary apoplexy to Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust between 1991 and 2015.

Results

We identified 64 patients with pituitary apoplexy (more complete clinical records were available in 52 patients). The median age at presentation was 46.7 years (IQR 31.5–57.0 years). Pituitary apoplexy was the first presentation of pituitary disease in 38/52 of patients and predisposing factors were identified in 28/52. Pituitary apoplexy predominantly occurred in patients with non-functioning pituitary adenomas (47/52). Headache was most commonly described as sudden onset, severe, lateralising to the frontal or temporal regions. Symptoms of meningeal irritation were reported in 7/18 and visual abnormalities in 22/35. A pre-treatment serum cortisol <100 nmol/L was recorded in 12/31 of patients. All patients with visual disturbance had some resolution of their visual symptoms whether managed surgically (14/14) or conservatively (5/5), although pituitary endocrine function did not fully recover in any patient.

Conclusions

In conclusion, these data describe the clinical features of pituitary apoplexy to aid the clinician in diagnosing this rare emergency presentation of pituitary disease. Prospective multicentre studies of the presentation of pituitary apoplexy are required to further characterise presentation and outcomes.
Incidence of adrenal gland tumor as a second primary malignancy: SEER-based study
Authors: Rashed Wafaa M , Saad Anas , Al-Husseini Muneer , Galal Ahmed Mahmoud , Ismael Assem Mohamed , Al-Tayep Ahmed M , El Shafie Ayman , Ali Mahmoud Ahmed , Alfaar Ahmad Samir
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Advances in cancer treatment achieved during the past decades have resulted in increased survival of most pediatric and adult patients that suffered from different adrenal tumor types. This article reviews the incidence and survival of adrenal gland tumors as second primary tumors, according to data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Methods

The SEER 13 Registries Database from 1992 to 2013 was used. All primary cancer sites were selected using the multiple primary standardized incidence ratios (MP-SIR) session.

Results

Data for a total of 2,887,468 persons with cancer were reviewed; 117 of whom had suffered second primary adrenal tumors. The overall SIR of adrenal gland tumor as a second primary was 1.5. A high incidence ratio of the event was detected in specific primary tumor sites: hypopharynx (observed/expected (O/E) = 44.6); other endocrine tissue (including the thymus) (O/E = 38.3); small intestine (O/E = 8.9); liver (O/E = 8.7); stomach (O/E = 5); nodal NHL (O/E = 3.8); kidney and renal pelvis (O/E = 3.2) and breast (O/E = 1.8).

Conclusion

The underlying shared mechanisms should be investigated between adrenal tumors and hypopharyngeal, endocrine and other tumors. Racial disparity is an important challenge in cancer treatment at the United States and should be taken into consideration in the design of cancer prevention programs. This could be achieved through follow-up programs at specialized national cancer networks, especially for rare tumors like adrenal gland.
Pituitary metastasis: a rare condition
Authors: Javanbakht Aida , D’Apuzzo Massimo , Badie Behnam , Salehian Behrouz
Published: August 2018

Tumor metastasis to the pituitary gland is a rare, not well-documented and life-threatening condition associated with a shortened life span. A better understanding of its clinical manifestations could lead to earlier diagnosis, appropriate therapy and potentially improving quality of life. Therefore, we retrospectively studied the charts of patients with pituitary metastases who were treated at the City of Hope National Medical Center (Duarte, CA) from 1984 to 2018. We reviewed and analyzed tumor origin, primary pituitary clinical manifestation, duration between primary tumor diagnosis and pituitary metastasis, type of treatment and patient survival. A total of 11 patients were identified with a mean age of 59.2 years and median survival following the diagnosis of metastasis of 10 months. Breast cancer and lymphoma were the most common primary origins in these cases, and diabetes insipidus and panhypopituitarism were the most common clinical manifestations of their metastasis. We also compared our results with reports in the literature published between 1957 and 2018. A total 289 patients with pituitary metastasis have been reported in the literature. Breast cancer was the most frequent primary origin of the metastasis, and visual symptoms were the most common primary manifestation. The posterior part of the pituitary is more susceptible than the anterior to metastasis. Pituitary metastasis may occur as a consequence of successful primary tumor treatment prolonging the chance of seeding. Future studies are needed to determine the molecular mechanism of metastasis to the pituitary.
Beat the giant: case of a giant prolactinoma during pregnancy on cabergoline
Authors: Almistehi Wael M , Almalki Mussa H
Published: August 2018

Giant prolactinomas are a rare entity; during pregnancy, the risk for complications associated with these tumors is higher. Here, we report a case of a young woman who had an invasive, giant prolactinoma post resection with residual disease who became pregnant. This patient was treated with cabergoline to prevent tumor expansion in pregnancy, resulting in the uneventful delivery of a healthy baby boy.

Learning points:

Giant prolactinoma can cause both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges given their atypical presentation.

Accurate diagnosis is paramount to avoid unnecessary surgical intervention or pituitary irradiation.

This case demonstrates the effectiveness and safety of CAB therapy during pregnancy.
Long-term effects of growth hormone replacement therapy in childhood-onset craniopharyngioma: results of the German Craniopharyngioma Registry (HIT-Endo)
Authors: Boekhoff Svenja , Bogusz Agnieszka , Sterkenburg Anthe S , Eveslage Maria , Müller Hermann L
Published: August 2018

Objective

Quality of survival, prognosis and long-term outcome are often severely impaired in childhood-onset craniopharyngioma (CP) patients. Identification of risk factors for sequelae such as growth hormone (GH) deficiency is important for appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.

Design

In a cross-sectional study, 79 CP patients recruited in HIT-Endo before 2000 were analyzed according to GH substitution: (a) CP never GH treated (noGH); (b) CP GH treated only during childhood (pedGH); (c) CP under GH, initiated at adulthood (adultGH); (d) CP under GH during childhood and continued during adulthood (contGH).

Methods

Progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS), height, BMI, psychosocial and neuropsychological status (EORTC QLQ-C30, MFI-20).

Results

OS and PFS rates were similar in all subgroups. ContGH and pedGH CP presented with increases in height (P = 0.002;P = 0.0001) during long-term follow-up when compared with baseline. In all subgroups except for pedGH, increases in BMI were observed when compared with BMI at diagnosis. For emotional functionality and physical fatigue, adultGH CP showed worse (P = 0.037;P = 0.034) response (mean: 61.4%; 12.5%) when compared with pedGH CP (mean: 83.5%; 7.7%). Observed differences were not related to irradiation and hypothalamic involvement. In terms of psychosocial status, no differences were observed between subgroups.

Conclusions

We conclude that GH substitution was safe with regard to risk of tumor progression/relapse in CP. Growth was improved by GH, whereas the development of obesity was not influenced by GH substitution. However, early initiation of GH substitution after CP diagnosis might have beneficial effects on weight development and neuropsychological outcome.
Biventricular mural vegetations without valvular involvement: an unusual presentation of Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis
Authors: Neoh Kai , Khan Jamal N. , Albouaini Khaled , Chenzbraun Adrian
Published: August 2018

A 42-year-old intravenous drug user presented with seizures and septicaemia. CT and MRI were suggestive of multiple brain and systemic emboli, and blood and CSF cultures were positive for Staphylococcus aureus. Initial transthoracic echocardiogram did not show any abnormalities but subsequent transoesophageal echocardiography showed two masses in the left and the right ventricle. The LV mass was large, irregular, non-mobile and attached to the basal anterolateral LV segment abutting but not involving the mitral valve. (Fig. 1). The RV mass was smaller and mobile and appeared attached to the primary chordae of anterior tricuspid valve leaflet, not encroaching the valve or affecting its function (Fig. 2). Once commenced on antibiotic treatment the patient’s condition improved, and there were no further embolic events. There was no valvular damage and sequential echo studies showed significant reduction in vegetation size. Although the formal echocardiographic definition of vegetation includes non-oscillating masses on any endocardial surface (1), primary mural endocarditis without valvular involvement is considered extremely rare (2). The diagnosis is supported by the septic and embolic clinical picture but requires awareness of this uncommon presentation. The present case is even more unusual in view of the biventricular mural localisation of the vegetations, a pattern that has been mentioned in only very few case reports (3, 4).
Loss of DBC1 (CCAR2) affects TNFα-induced lipolysis and Glut4 gene expression in murine adipocytes
Authors: Able Ashley A , Richard Allison J , Stephens Jacqueline M
Published: August 2018

STAT5A (signal transducer and activator of transcription 5A) is a transcription factor that plays a role in adipocyte development and function. In this study, we report DBC1 (deleted in breast cancer 1 – also known as CCAR2) as a novel STAT5A-interacting protein. DBC1 has been primarily studied in tumor cells, but there is evidence that loss of this protein may promote metabolic health in mice. Currently, the functions of DBC1 in mature adipocytes are largely unknown. Using immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting techniques, we confirmed that there is an association between endogenous STAT5A and DBC1 proteins under physiological conditions in the adipocyte nucleus that is not dependent upon STAT5A tyrosine phosphorylation. We used siRNA to knockdown DBC1 in 3T3-L1 adipocytes to determine the impact on STAT5A activity, adipocyte gene expression and TNFα (tumor necrosis factor α)-regulated lipolysis. The loss of DBC1 did not affect the expression of several STAT5A target genes includingSocs3,Cish,Bcl6,Socs2andIgf1. However, we did observe decreased levels of TNFα-induced glycerol and free fatty acids released from adipocytes with reduced DBC1 expression. In addition, DBC1-knockdown adipocytes had increasedGlut4expression. In summary, DBC1 can associate with STAT5A in adipocyte nucleus, but it does not appear to impact regulation of STAT5A target genes. Loss of adipocyte DBC1 modestly increasesGlut4gene expression and reduces TNFα-induced lipolysis. These observations are consistent within vivoobservations that show loss of DBC1 promotes metabolic health in mice.
Heart Failure with Mid-range Ejection Fraction: Lessons from CHARM
Authors: Lund Lars H ,   Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, and Heart and Vascular Theme, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
Published: August 2018

The newly defined category of heart failure (HF) with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF; EF 40–49 %) is beginning to be characterised but little is known about the potential for treating it. Trials and observational studies suggest that standard therapy for HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF; EF <40 %) may also offer some benefit to patients with EF ≥40 %; however, any difference between its effects on HFmrEF and true HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) have until now not been explored. This study summarises randomised trial data from the CHARM programme that suggest that candesartan may improve outcomes in HFmrEF
Exercise Training in Heart Failure Patients With Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: a Practical Approach
Authors: Cornelis Justien , Myers Jonathan ,   Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium,   Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium,   Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium; 5. Department of Medicine,  University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
Published: August 2018

Persistent AF is present in at least 20 % of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and is related to a poor prognosis and more severe cardiac arrhythmias. CHF and AF share a common pathophysiology and can exacerbate one another. Exercise programmes for people with CHF have been shown to improve aerobic capacity, prognosis and quality of life. Given that patients with both CHF and AF show greater impairment in exercise performance, exercise training programmes have the potential to be highly beneficial. Optimal clinical evaluation using a cardiopulmonary exercise test should be performed before starting a training programme. Heart rate should be calculated over a longer period of time In patients with CHF and AF than those in sinus rhythm. The use of telemetry is advised to measure HR accurately during training. If telemetry is not available, patients can be safely trained based on the concomitant workload. An aerobic exercise training programme of moderate to high intensity, whether or not combined with strength training, is advised in patients with CHF and AF. Optimal training modalities and their intensity require further investigation.
Nicorandil and Long-acting Nitrates: Vasodilator Therapies for the Management of Chronic Stable Angina Pectoris
Authors: Tarkin Jason M ,   National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London,   Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Cambridge, Kaski Juan Carlos ,   Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George’s, University of London
Published: August 2018

Nicorandil and long-acting nitrates are vasodilatory drugs used commonly in the management of chronic stable angina pectoris. Both nicorandil and long-acting nitrates exert anti-angina properties via activation of nitric oxide (NO) signalling pathways, triggering vascular smooth muscle cell relaxation. Nicorandil has additional actions as an arterial K+ATP channel agonist, resulting in more “balanced” arterial and venous vasodilatation than nitrates. Ultimately, these drugs prevent angina symptoms through reductions in preload and diastolic wall tension and, to a lesser extent, epicardial coronary artery dilatation and lowering of systemic blood pressure. While there is some evidence to suggest a modest reduction in cardiovascular events among patients with stable angina treated with nicorandil compared to placebo, this prognostic benefit has yet to be proven conclusively. In contrast, there is emerging evidence to suggest that chronic use of long-acting nitrates might cause endothelial dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk in some patients.
Assessing the Haemodynamic Impact of Coronary Artery Stenoses: Intracoronary Flow Versus Pressure Measurements
Authors: Stegehuis Valérie E ,   AMC Heart Center, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Wijntjens Gilbert WM ,   AMC Heart Center, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Murai Tadashi ,   AMC Heart Center, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Piek Jan J ,   AMC Heart Center, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Hoef Tim P van de ,   AMC Heart Center, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Published: August 2018

Fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided percutaneous coronary intervention results in better long-term clinical outcomes compared with coronary angiography alone in intermediate stenoses in stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Coronary physiology measurements have emerged for clinical decision making in interventional cardiology, but the focus lies mainly on epicardial vessels rather than the impact of these stenoses on the myocardial microcirculation. The latter can be quantified by measuring the coronary flow reserve (CFR), a combined pressure and flow index with a strong ability to predict clinical outcomes in CAD. However, combined pressure-flow measurements show 30–40 % discordance despite similar diagnostic accuracy between FFR and CFR, which is explained by the effect of microvascular resistance on both indices. Both epicardial and microcirculatory involvement has been acknowledged in ischaemic heart disease, but clinical implementation remains difficult as it requires individual proficiency. The recent introduced pressure-only index instantaneous wave-free ratio, a resting adenosine-free stenosis assessment, led to a revival of interest in coronary physiology measurements. This review focuses on elaborating the coronary physiological parameters and potential of combined pressure-flow measurements in daily clinical practice.
Ситуація в сфері житлово-комунальних послуг населенню як фактор зростання протестних настроїв та протестної активності
Authors: Fesenko Artur M. , Chorna Viktoriya O.
Published: August 2018

У даній статті здійснено розгляд тематики протестних настроїв та протестної активності населення на тлі погіршення ситуації у сфері житлово-комунальних послуг. Не є таємницею, що протягом вже десятиріч житлово-комунальна сфера потерпає від відсутності належного фінансування та фактичного самоусунення держави від її модернізації, внаслідок чого має місце перманентне, а в останні роки й стрімке зростання тарифів для населення як споживача відповідних послуг – при відставанні якості самого обслуговування. Це слід розглядати як суттєвий фактор погіршення як рівня, так і якості життя громадян України, адже житло та супутні послуги відносяться до фундаментальних потреб цивілізованої людини. Не дивно, що на цьому підґрунті виникає невдоволення населення ситуацію, що складається, при тому, що жодних шляхів її виправлення не просліджується. Такий стан речей закономірно стає фактором підвищення рівня соціальної напруженості, та, як кінцевий результат, може стати одним із чинників формування й зміцнення протестних настроїв на тлі й без того складної суспільно-політичної ситуації, що нині переживає Україна. Все це робить відповідний моніторинг важливим науково-практичним завданням.Тому у межах даної статті проаналізовано дані відповідних соціологічних досліджень моніторингового характеру останніх років та підсумовано результати здійсненого за участю її авторів у 2017 році опитування мешканців м. Миколаєва. Відповідні дані демонструють існування протестного потенціалу як по Україні, так і в м. Миколаєві на ґрунті окресленої ситуації. Зокрема, встановлено, що переважна більшість опитаних миколаївців вважає нинішні тарифи на житлово-комунальні послуги надто завищеними; майже половина опитаних погоджується з тим, що ситуація у житлово-комунальній сфері може стати підґрунтям для протестної активності громадян; близько 15 % опитаних самі готові брати участь у протестних заходах (переважно «м’якого характеру»).
Громада як суб’єкт культури локальної демократії
Authors: Tsumariev Marat I.
Published: August 2018

Аналізуються особливості територіальної громади як суб’єкта культури локальної демократії – специфічної сфери локальної політичної культури, що стосується знань, умінь, навичок застосування законодавчо визначених механізмів локальної демократії, політичної участі у згаданих механізмах. У ході дослідження проаналізовано основні підходи до розуміння територіальної громади, її правовий статус та специфіку територіальної громади як групового суб’єкта культури локальної демократії. Виявлено особливості культури локальної демократії, притаманні різним рівням групових суб’єктів (базовий, основний, загальний), які виокремлені нами за критеріями: кількості населення територіальної громади; міцності соціальних зв’язків мешканців, усвідомлення ними необхідності участі у вирішенні спільних проблем.З’ясовано, що до групових суб’єктів культури локальної демократії належать територіальні громади (мешканці населених пунктів в межах таких адміністративно-територіальних одиниць, як місто, селище, село); частини територіальної громади на мікрорівні, локалізовані за територіальною ознакою (мешканці району у населеному пункті, мікрорайону, кварталу, вулиці, багатоквартирного будинку). Також шляхом аналізу нормативних актів встановлено, що суб’єктом механізмів локальної демократії може бути територіальна громада в цілому, але окремі механізми можуть бути здійснені тільки на рівні частини територіальної громади.
Три моделі міжінституційних відносин держави і церкви: соціологічний аспект
Authors: Romanenko Volodymyr A.
Published: August 2018

Проаналізовано три моделі міжінституційних відносин держави і церкви: 1) модель свободи релігій від держави через велику дистанцію та жорстке відокремлення; 2) модель рівноправності релігій; 3) модель інтеграції через наближення громадянської релігії до конституційної моралі. В результаті проведеного аналізу автором зроблено висновок про те, що розгляд конституцій сучасних держав та договори про захист прав людини, які були прийняті після Другої світової війни, дає можливість чіткого вирізнення окремих систем держави – церкви, для яких є переважно характерні ідентифікація або об’єднання церковної і світської влади, тобто в яких не проявляється в незначній мірі дистанція між цими двома сферами. В статті наголошено на тому, що «формальні системи єдності» держави і церкви, які передбачають існування державної церкви або національної релігії, в своїх конституціях гарантують переважно свободу і рівність, як, наприклад, у Великій Британії або Греції. Тим самим, на думку дослідника, досягається непорушність конституції або принципів прав людини. Причина цього полягає в тому, що поняття дистанції (поділу), свободи і рівності можуть бути інтерпретовані по-різному: з одного боку, вони є більш відкритими, готовими до компромісів щодо традиційно сильних позицій релігії в країні та відносин релігії з державною владою; з іншого боку, вони є більш жорсткими та консервативними, якщо справа стосується необхідної дистанції або ж необхідної свободи та рівності у здійсненні релігійних обрядів.
Генезис та еволюційні трансформації економічної культури: соціально- філософський аналіз
Authors: Rudan Natalia S.
Published: August 2018

Вивчено генезис та еволюційні трансформації економічної культури під кутом зору соціальної філософії, що дало можливість отримати системну інформацію про перетворення економічної культури, розвиток економічної культури в сучасному суспільстві. Уточнено сучасне розуміння значення економічної культури як «проекції» культури (в її широкому розумінні) на сферу соціально-економічних відносин. Досліджено модель «економічної людини» – «homo economicus», що полягає у: раціоналізмі, егоїстичному індивідуалізмі, бажанні до насолоди та прагненні уникнути страждань скрізь, де це тільки можливо. Затверджується взаємозв’язок та взаємодія економічних і соціальних процесів як необхідна складова економічної стабільності суспільства. Встановлено значення трансформації економічних систем для фактичного благополуччя сучасної людини, що полягає в його економічній поведінці. Виявлено смисловий зміст раціональної поведінки, необхідної для успішного розвитку сучасного українського суспільства. Показано значення економічної культури для успішного розвитку сучасного суспільства, що полягає у: з’єднанні економічного і соціального середовища в єдине ціле; економічній поведінці людини; втіленні духовних цінностей та інтересів у матерію дій.
Theoretical and methodological principles of application of event analysis in the activity of the patronage service of state administration
Authors: Kryvoshein V. V.
Published: August 2018

The theoretical and methodological principles of application of the method of event analysis in the activity of the patronage service of the state administration body are considered. It is shown that using the method of event analysis it becomes possible to streamline the flow of socio-political events in such a way that through a series of phenomena to identify objective tendencies and on this basis to develop an objective assessment, to formulate and substantiate the forecast of the development of events. The typical scheme of the event analysis is given. It is disclosed that the method of event analysis involves a consistent description of the chain: the situation – events – the environment – the participants (their resources, interests, interconnections) – limitation of activities – goals and objectives (success / failure criteria) – alternative solutions – scenarios and forecasts – action strategy. The stages of the event analysis are singled out and procedures are described on each of them. In particular, the following stages of the event analysis are defined: compiling a data bank or join-ing an existing one; separation of the information array into separate units of observation and data sorting; calculation of results of filling matrix classifier; analytical comparison of the obtained values; verification of the results. Detailed procedures of the stage of creation of a data bank are described: the phases of the process of creating data about events are selected (choice of information support; development of coding system; choice of coding method; database creation); the structure of the information archive is determined (special abstracts, special indexes, specialized fund for formalized analysis of events, problems and documents); describes the main criteria for evaluating, selecting, refining and formalizing information (subject of the event, purpose, plan, idea of the subject of the event, action, image, form, means of action of the subject of the event, object, subject of the event, time (date) event, event location, result, product, event finale, event reason, event outcome, other special circumstances and event conditions). The advantages and disadvantages of the event analysis in the activity of the patronage service of the public administration body are revealed.
Municipal legal problems of realization and protection of human rights depending on belonging to the LGBT community
Authors: Batanov O. V.
Published: August 2018

The article is devoted to the study of the process of formation and realization of the rights of persons belonging to the LGBT community in the context of local self-government and the functioning of territorial communities. In the article is investigated the concept and nature of identity as self-determination, self-identification as a representative of a particular social group in the context of the human rights for LGBT. It is proved that the identity itself cannot be a basis for discrimination. Attention is drawn to the importance of the immediate implementation of the principle of respect for the identity of the person, combating and prevention of marginalization and demonization of minorities.It is reported that acts on human rights of international importance and legislation of the most countries of the world, including Ukraine, are based on the principles of justice, equality and non-discrimination. The author justifies the position that the lack of effective mechanism of protection of human rights and non-discrimination based on sexual orientation both at national and municipal levels inevitably conflict with the ideas of social legal state and civil society. In this regard, it is concluded that the development of an effective human rights protection municipal mechanism and prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation are a significant target to achieve.
Genezis of the person of the public service, as a complex element of its legal status
Authors: Andrieiev V. O.
Published: August 2018

The article is devoted to the study of the main stages of the formation and development of the oath of a civil servant, as part of his legal status. The normative legal acts regulating the oath of a civil servant during the historical development of the civil service in the territory of modern Ukraine are considered.The article concludes that at the present stage, the institute of oath of a civil servant, based on historical legal analysis and taking into account European integration processes in the field of public administration, has a sustainable development. Throughout the historical development of the oath of a public servant, the formation and development of the civil service in the territory of Ukraine played a significant role. The main factors of influence in different historical periods on the formation and development of the oath of a civil servant were armed confrontation, change in the form of government, the state-political structure of the state, and the formation of various Ukrainian states.At the same time, taking into account the complicated conditions for the historical development of the oath of a public servant, which consisted in the perception of society, a certain historical period, the legal phenomenon of «oath» as an integral part of the legal status of a civil servant, and sometimes the lack of normative and legal regulation of the institution of the oath of a civil servant, all however, played an important role in the formation of the civil service in general.Thus, all historical stages of gossip of the oath of a civil servant as a component of his legal status are important from the point of view of historical and legal study of the civil service in the territory of Ukraine, as well as normative legal acts from the point of view of fixing the oath of the civil servant.Consequently, taking into account the historical development of the oath of a civil servant, an oath is an integral part of its legal status, a factor that gives an individual the opportunity to voluntarily acquire certain rights and responsibilities, which are, first of all, in the service of their people.
Global government and civil society
Authors: Gainutdinova L. A.
Published: August 2018

In this article the frames of democratic global government, which determine the role of a global civil society as an alternative of market-driven globalization, are being analyzed. With this intention the main theories of international political economy – hegemonic stability theory, complex independence theory, new multilateralism, and also the comparison of the approaches to the potential possibilities of strengthening of the role of civil society in the system of global government are being examined.In order to create the necessary framework for democratic global governance in the twenty-first century, global and national civil societies must enter into more intensive synergies with individual national states and international organizations. Therefore, the article aims to define the role of global civil society in the project of global democratic governance as an alternative to market-driven globalization and to consider the main theories of international political economy by comparing their approaches to the potential opportunities of civil society in the global governance system.The article concludes that, based on the definition of opportunities for expanding the role of civil society in global governance, the theory of complex interdependence and the new multilateralism offer the most appropriate theoretical framework for examining the contribution of civil society in removing the tensions generated by globalization. One can talk about the expansion of the role of civil society in global governance, as the growing presence of social movements and non-governmental organizations on the global scene has become visible due to their activities in the areas of services, education, and protection of rights that contribute to the development of a global cooperative system.
The Relationship between Performance of the Administrative System and National Authority of Governments: An Islamic Point Of View
Authors: Jafari Mahtab
Published: August 2018

Each government consists of two dimensions: 1) a sructural dimension that involves policy- and decision-making bodies and, 2) a functional dimension that is a set of government institutions and administrations. Also, national authority in a country is an outcome of three components, including legitimacy, acceptance, and efficiency of its government. The authority of governments is not merely limited to their structural legitimacy and acceptance; but, their functional dimension and the performance of their administrations also play a crucial role in building and strengthening their legitimacy. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate how the administrative system of a government affects its national authority, with an emphasis on the Islamic point of view. To do so, this research has been carried out within the framework of theoretical research with practical purpose. The research method of the current study was descriptive-analytical. In the present study, the relationship between two variables – namely, “administrative system” and “national authority”– has been investigated within the framework of causal research. Due to the theoretical nature of this study, the resources used mostly include documents and library resources. The results of this study indicate that there is a direct and causal relationship between the national authority of governments (effect) and the performance of their administrative system (cause). Also, this relationship reveals how the administrative system affects national authority.
Historical analysis of the scientific base of investment activity problems in housing building
Authors: Bogdanenko A. I.
Published: August 2018

The article is devoted to the consideration of the scientific-source basis of the issues of investment activity in housing construction. On the basis of historical analysis, the main stages of the evolution of the problems of reducing investment attractiveness in the housing market in Ukraine are determined. The foreign practice of state regulation of investment and construction processes relevant for borrowing, or refinement, in such developed countries as Ukraine, Great Britain, Germany, Sweden and the United States of America is considered. Summarizing the experience of developing mortgage lending abroad, it should be noted that mortgage lending was one of the main factors of economic development in the United States (new Roosevelt course), in Germany (post-war reforms of Erhard), in Argentina («Kovalio plan») and in Chile (Pinochet reforms). It is proved that the development of housing construction is significantly dependent on the level of development of mortgage lending, as this is one of the main sources for obtaining additional funds for the further development of construction.It is noted that the problems existing today in the housing and construction complex of the country are largely provoked by the ineffectiveness of the system of investment activity that was established even in a planned economy. The Soviet housing finance system was based on the centralized allocation of budgetary resources for the construction of public housing and its free provision to citizens who were officially recognized, in due course, in need of better housing conditions. It is concluded that the system of state construction and housing distribution inevitably led to a spiraling growth in demand for housing and stagnation of its supply, which caused a steady deficit of housing stock.The processes of stabilization, reformation and development of investment in housing construction are always experienced by all developed countries of the world. Seeking a way of output from a difficult situation, governments are pursuing a policy that should provide state financial support to construction companies and, at the same time, facilitate the wider involvement of the private sector in providing construction services, resulting in the emergence and development of a competitive construction environment in general.
Decentralized principle of the tax system: the state and prospects of the development of the single tax institute
Authors: Adamov D. V.
Published: August 2018

Ukraine has to reform the organization of public and local power, which involves alteration of the administrative-territorial division in very difficult socio-economic and political conditions. So, there is the theoretical substantiation of observance of the decentralized principle of construction of tax system on an example of institute of the uniform tax in the article. Moreover, decentralisation signifies local powers over certain areas of decision-making. The study is based on the systematization of scientific works of domestic and foreign scientists in the aspects of small business development, decentralization and tax system. The local self-governments are now responsible for budgets and attracting investment for small business development, and will answer to their own local voters. But the important fact is the devolution of authority to the communities, rather than the oblasts or raions. Noting the functions of the current tax mechanism, the expediency of taking into account the allocative function of the tax policy, which is actualized in the conditions of decentralization, is justified. Consequently it consist the systematization of research by scientists about targets for the appropriateness of decentralization when using public resources; expected effects to improve the efficiency of the public sector, the rate of economic growth and reduce inter-territorial inequality in the levels of existence of the middle class and the functioning of small businesses; a sufficient number of arguments for the formulation of political will and the accumulation of political resources to resolve the current imbalance; risks of interterritorial asymmetry of net fiscal benefits; conditions for the introduction of optimal financial (including fiscal) decentralization in Ukraine. The article shows the factor changes in the formal norms of the single tax institute in Ukraine in 2014, 2015 and 2017. The decentralization reforms have already brought significant change to Ukraine. But in this case, hromady have financial problems with prospects and plans autonomy development and implementation of incentive policies for small businesses. The newly merged communities in this way will be rendered sustainable. Against all the odds, the technical implementation of decentralization reforms has moved forward. Fiscal decentralization has set new rules for the allocation of taxes to local budgets.  But it it does not solve the whole complex of problems that confront the small business in the current moment. As a result, the study has drawn on the prospects for the development of the single tax institute in conditions of decentralization in Ukraine.