bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial therapy in infectious complications of diabetic foot
Authors: Marin Ioan , Zaharia Roxana , Lupu Leonard , Rusu Emilia , Radulian Gabriela
Published: May 2018

Background and aims: The treatment of diabetic foot complications is combined, surgical and medical. The aim of our study was to assess the results of antimicrobial therapy in diabetic foot infections. Material and methods: 100 patients with diabetic foot infections admitted in the Surgery Clinic “I. Juvara” between December 2010 and February 2011 were analyzed. Results: Mean age at presentation was 58.4±9.74 years for women and 63.2±10.53 years for men. Mean diabetes duration was 12.3 years in men and 15.7 years in women. Patients with peripheral arterial disease represented 45% of cases, patients with neuropathy represented 16% of cases and patients with both conditions 39% of the cases. 41 patients suffered minor surgical interventions, 36 patients experienced minor amputations and 23 major amputations (below or above the knee). Antibiotic treatment included cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and combinations with Metronidazole. After treatment, 74% of patients had a good postoperative evolution. For 26 patients a change of the antibiotic was necessary but only in 10 cases this was made according to antibiogram. Conclusions: Surgical debridement and wound management, carefully chosen antimicrobial therapy and treatment of comorbidities are very important for a successful outcome. Initial empirical antibiotic selection should be followed by culture-guided definitive therapy.
The impact of arterial stiffness on cognitive status in elderly diabetic patients
Authors: Aurelian Sorina Maria , Capisizu Ana , Zamfirescu Andreea , Cheţa Dan
Published: May 2018

With age, arteries become more rigid and pulse waves propagate faster. The pathogenic mechanisms that causes vascular stiffness in type 2 diabetes are complex but incompletely understood. An important element in the development of this phenomenon appears to be insulin resistance. One of the first line health problems that persist in the present is the failure to detect cardiovascular diseases in the preclinical stage which is important since more frequent cardiac events (myocardial infarction, sudden death) occur in people without obvious cardiovascular pathology in the medical history. One of the degenerative diseases with the greatest impact on the autonomy is dementia of elderly people. Recent studies have shown the association and even the possible involvement of cardiovascular risk factors and arterial stiffness in the pathogenesis of dementia and cognitive impairment. Although pulse wave velocity in the aorta is related to subclinical coronary atherosclerosis (being an important biomarker of cardiovascular risk in asymptomatic individuals), arterial stiffness is also a predictor of cognitive performance, cognitive decline or dementia.
The role of ultrasound in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Csiszér Irén , Albu Silvu , Neagos Cristian Mircea , Navadarszki Marius , Neagos Adriana
Published: May 2018

OBJECTIVE. This study examines the association between the severity of obstructive sleep apnea and the pharyngeal parameters using the ultrasound of the submental region.

MATERIAL AND METHODS. For this study, data obtained from 40 patients, who had undergone investigations in the Galenus Medical Centre in order to diagnose sleep apnea, was analyzed. The following parameters were compared: the transverse diameter of the retrolingual region, the transverse diameter of the retropalatal region and the tongue base thickness. These regions were measured at different moments of respiration such as: during forced expiration, during forced inspiration and while the patients performed Müller’s Manoeuvre. The neck circumference, the body mass index of patients and the severity of sleep apnea obtained from polysomnography were analyzed.

RESULTS. The evaluation of the results revealed: severe obstructive sleep apnea in 16 patients, respectively moderate severity in 10 patients, mild apnea in 4 patients, and no obstructive sleep apnea in 10 patients. Statistically significant results (p<0.05) were found after comparing the parameters obtained in patients with severe apnea versus the parameters in patients without apnea, with mild or respectively moderate apnea.

CONCLUSION. Based on the results obtained, we consider that cervical ultrasound is useful in the diagnosis of severe obstructive apnea, identifying the pathological changes of the anatomical structures that basically cause this category of disease. Due to the fact that in our country ultrasound is a relatively inexpensive method, being also a non-irradiating, repeatable and accessible method, it should be more widely applied also in the field of otorhinolaryngology in order to view structures accessible to this type of imaging.
Polysomnography outcomes on patients with obstructive sleep apnea after upper airways repermeabilization surgery
Authors: Tanase Ionut , Manea Claudiu , Sarafoleanu Codrut
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND. Sleep apnea is a pathology with an ever-increasing spread, the causes being the most diverse. In this study we focus on sleep breathing disorders caused by nasal obstruction and also by soft palate and uvula anatomical changes. The right treatment recommended in this pathology according to the American Academy Sleep Medicine (AASM) is non-invasive ventilation – positive airway pressure (CPAP). A substantial percentage of patients with obstructive sleep apnea seek alternatives to CPAP and the solution for this can be upper airway surgery.

OBJECTIVE. The attempt to demonstrate the viability of upper respiratory tract surgery as an alternative to CPAP treatment, demonstrating objectives by pre- and postoperative polysomnographic control.

RESULTS. Aggregating the data from all 54 patients with nasal obstruction and pharyngeal modifications, we observed a decrease in AHI from 20.406/h to 15.86/h, representing 32.36%, an improvement in sleep architecture and especially REM sleep from 41.5 minutes initially to 67.8 minutes (increased value with 63.37 percent).

CONCLUSION. The benefits of nasopharyngeal repermeabilization surgery are represented by decreasing the severity of respiratory events and, second to this, lowering the number of arousals. By reducing the number of arousals, one will obtain a better percentage regarding the deep sleep phase - REM, having a beneficial effect on reducing the daytime sleepiness – which is a major symptom that patients are present.
Infected nasopalatine cyst or neoplasm
Authors: Amonov Anvar , Yusupov Bakhrom , Khasanov Akbar , Madaminov Akhmad , Shukurov Zohir , Bekmirzaev Rahimjon , Botiralieva Gulrukh , Omonov Azizbek
Published: May 2018

The cyst is accumulated fluid or mass in a cavity lined by pathological epithelium. The mandible and the maxilla are bones with high prevalence of cyst formation in the human body. Cystic affections, with or without bone destruction of the hard palate, are considered benign tumours. We present the case of a 20-year-old young man with a cystic lesion of the hard palate having lasted for 7 months.
The Regional Impacts of the Asian Crisis on Governance
Authors: Kaya Halil Dincer
Published: May 2018

In this study, we examine the regional impacts of the 1997 Asian Crisis on Governance. We use World Bank’s Worldwide Governance Indicators (i.e. WGI) which includes six dimensions of governance. These six dimensions are “Voice and Accountability”, “Political Stability and Absence of Violence”, “Government Effectiveness”, “Regulatory Quality”, “Rule of Law”, and “Control of Corruption”. The seven regions that we examine are North America, Europe and Central Asia, Latin America and Caribbean, East Asia and Pacific, South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Middle East and North Africa. Our findings show that, due to the crisis, while the overall rankings of Latin America and Caribbean, and Sub-Saharan Africa improved, the overall rankings of Europe and Central Asia, East Asia and Pacific, South Asia, and Middle East and North Africa declined. There was no change in the ranking of North America due to the crisis. Both pre- and post-crisis, North America has the highest ranking in all six measures of governance.
Developing and Testing a Pioneer Model for Online Shopping Behavior for Natural Flowers: Evidence from Mauritius
Authors: Pudaruth Sharmila , Busviah Dhanishta
Published: May 2018

This paper has explored a pioneer model for online shopping behavior for natural flowers in Mauritius. Further to the extensive literature review, a survey method was adopted whereby 200 questionnaires were distributed to respondents using a non-probability convenience sampling method. The empirical estimates of the study have depicted that price, trust, reputation of retailers; education and age have an impact towards online shopping behavior for natural flowers, whilst gender and income do not influence customers. Correlation analysis also revealed that perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, subjective norms, behavioral intention and attitudes impacted on the online shopping behavior for natural flowers. A pioneer conceptual model was also proposed in this paper, whereby, policy makers and practitioners of online business can use the model as a reference to pave the way to encourage online purchases. This research represents a different way of understanding online shopping behavior for natural flowers.
IAS/IFRS Adoption and Behavioral Dimension: A Meta-Analysis of the Empirical Evidence
Authors: Riahi Olfa , Khoufi Walid
Published: May 2018

In this article, we investigate the causality links between behavioral factors and the decision to adopt IFRS in developing countries until the year 2013. We implement this empirical model by using the neo-institutional approach and based on a sample of 108 developing countries. Our empirical results show that there exists bidirectional causal relationship between the majority of the developed behavioral variables and the decision of adopting or not IFRS by developing countries. They also indicate through multivariate analysis that the selection of IAS / IFRS by developing countries is primarily legitimized by institutional and social pressures (institutional isomorphism). These empirical insights are of particular interest to local accounting standard setters of selected countries since they can provide a better discernment of factors that can encourage the adoption of IAS IFRS.
Interpretation of Negative Prerequisites for Dissolving Marriage by Divorce – Comments in the Light of Directives of the Supreme Court
Authors: Dziemianowicz Małgorzata Anna
Published: May 2018

The issues discussed in the following article focus on the interpretation of negative prerequisites for dissolving marriage by divorce. In Poland, special protection of the family stems both from the Constitution and the Family and Guardianship Code of 1964. The obstacles which seem to counteract the independent breaking of the marriage knot are the regulated positive and negative divorce prerequisites. In the area of divorce prerequisites in question, the Family and Guardianship Code functions in the unchanged form. As provided by the Family and Guardianship Code one of the negative divorce prerequisites was the welfare of minor children who could suffer as a result of granting a divorce. It is interesting for the contemporary judicial practice and the interpretation of law made in court judgments whether and in what scope it is possible to use the contemporary achievements of the Supreme Court as regards the guidelines. It seems that in the situation where the directives lost their binding force, it is not purposeful to refer to them as a source of law interpretation. The practice of judicial decisions seems to oppose this idea. Moreover, the guidelines of the Supreme Court passed at the time when they were a commonly binding interpretation of the law will undoubtedly be useful for creating the judicial law now and in the future.
Postmodernism - Between Objective Reality and Subjective Artistic Impulse Markings into Romanian Sound Art
Authors: Milea Luminița
Published: May 2018

An incursion into the Romanian musical life is always a pleasure, a moment of harmony, feeling and excitement. However, the turmoil of contemporary life sometimes brings us back to reality, urging us to check its pulse and to objectively look towards the future. Postmodernism, with its multiple facets, is in such times a subject for reflection, given its force which touched not only the artistic dimension, but also the communicational one, creating mutations which were difficult to imagine several decades ago. The past and future brought into the present are oscillating on the axis of time, and the interference between art, science and technology are embodied into an indestructible entity. Bringing the mundane usefulness and derisory in relation with beauty and harmony, this phenomenon has become permanently set into the area of objective reality, generating at times conflict, at times coexistence in the creator – performer – public spectator relation.
Several Thoughts on Returning to the Word
Authors: Cantemir Alexandra-Ioana
Published: May 2018

Among the collection of practices and methods used by postmodern artists to undermine the rigid conventions of the theatre, there are stylistic hybridization and the tendency to de-theatricalize the situation that is presented in the context of the performance. In order to de-theatricalize, there is an emphasis on the real elements used to create the performance. One of the methods employed for inserting realness in the performance is the verbatim method, which consists of documenting through surveys, interviews, research of documents on a given theme, followed by using the collected data (which is to be edited during a process that, preferably, does not include fictionalizing) to write the performance text. Can We Talk About This? is representative for the type of working method used by DV8 since the 2000s, when they started to become increasingly concerned with specific social situations, that are tackled in their performances through interview-based texts. Verbatim theatre and dance theatre come together in a new, inciting, hybrid genre that draws even more strongly from the immediate reality and, also, requires the engagement of all of the performers’ abilities, right from the beginning of the working process.
Convergence of the Solutions for a Neutral Difference Equation with Negative Coefficients
Authors: Chatzarakis George E. , Miliaras George N.
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we investigate the asymptotic behavior of the solutions of a neutral type difference equation of the form

where τj (n), j = 1, . . . , w are general retarded arguments, σ(n) is a general deviated argument, [###] is a sequence of positive real numbers such that p(n) ≥ p, p ∈ R+, and Δ denotes the forward difference operator Δx(n) = x(n + 1) − x(n).
Urban demographic transition
Authors: Dumont Gérard-François
Published: May 2018

Urban demographic transition can be defined as the historical period in which the population growth of cities structurally changes the settlement of territories. During this period, the urban population rate, which was previously very low, less than one-tenth of the population from the origins of humanity at least until the beginning of the 19th century, grew to be more than half of the population and sometimes much more. On a global average, the urban demographic transition was complete by 2008. Yet this transition is a double surprise in the history of the earth. The authors of the past had by no means envisaged it, and it is unprecedented in the history of the settlement of our planet. It will therefore be necessary to explain the unforeseen process that led to it. But it is essential to understand that urbanisation is deployed in a very differing way according to territories and countries. Finally, it is important to examine the period of post-transition, which concerns all countries whose urbanisation rate exceeds half the total population.
”Katowice effect”? Regeneration of the site of the former Katowice coal mine through prestige cultural projects
Authors: Sobala-Gwosdz Agnieszka , Gwosdz Krzysztof
Published: May 2018

This paper aims to give an in–depth account of the regeneration of the site of the former Katowice coalmine, by far the largest regeneration venture financed by the public sector on a post-industrial site in Poland, and to capture the primary outcomes and effects of this prestige project. Contrary to a simplified interpretation of a ‘Polish Bilbao effect’, the authors argue that the Culture Zone follows a unique development model that was driven by a coincidence of such factors as the situation of a major (post-) industrial conurbation seeking a new identity, the availability of external funding, chance events (with the origins of some of them dating back to WW2), and pre-existing spatial factors. The study area has been diagnosed to include all the positive effects of flagship projects, as well as most of the weaknesses associated with such a type of regeneration. All in all, it is a successful undertaking given the external conditions under which it has been implemented.
The researching ship “Gdynia“
Authors: Gierusz Witold , Łebkowski Andrzej
Published: May 2018

The paper presents the physical model of the sea-going ship. The wooden
hull of this ship was obtained from Ship Design and Research Centre
and next rebuilt and reconstructed for future tests of the different control
systems in the real-time experiments. The paper describes the succeeding
stages of the work, steering and driving devices installed on board, power
electric diagrams and navigational equipment designated for ship. The
range of the possible applications of the constructed vessel are presented
at the end of the paper
Research on a method of hull form design based on wave-making resistance optimization
Authors: Sun Jianglong , Lv Xujian , Liu Weibin , Ning Hanwen , Chen Xianwen
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we consider an optimization of the hull shape in order to minimize the total resistance of a ship.The total resistance is assumed to be the sum of the wave resistance computed on the basis of the thin-shiptheory and the frictional resistance. Smoothness of hull lines is proved with mathematical procedure, in whichdifferentials of the hull lines functions are analyzed. The wave-making resistance optimization, involvinga genetic algorithm, uses Michell integral to calculate wave resistance. A certain hull form is generatedby the method using cross section information of a modified DTMB model ship 5415 and a comparativeexperiment is carried out. Experimental and calculation result show that the method is of good adaptabilityfor designing certain types of ships with excellent resistance performance.
Genetic algorithm for solving celestial navigation fix problems
Authors: Tsou Ming-Cheng
Published: May 2018

As we enter the 21st century and advance further into the information age, traditional methods for computinga celestial navigation fix can no longer meet the requirements of modern vessels in terms of calculationspeed and precision. Study of precise, rapid, and convenient celestial navigation computational methodsand the application of information technology to modern celestial navigation is especially meaningful,considering the current push for e-Navigation. In this work, we employ a genetic algorithm, from the fieldof artificial intelligence, due to its superior search ability that mimics the natural process of biologicalevolution. Unique encodings and genetic operators designed in this study, in combination with the fixprinciple of celestial circles of equal altitude in celestial navigation, allow the rapid and direct attainmentof accurate optimum vessel position. Test results indicate that this method has more flexibility, and avoidstedious and complicated computation and graphical procedures.
Processing data on sea bottom structure obtained by means of the parametric sounding
Authors: Kozaczka Eugeniusz , Grelowska Grażyna , Kozaczka Sławomir , Szymczak Wojciech
Published: May 2018

The aim of the paper is to analyze data obtained during sounding the Gdansk Bay sea bed by means of the
parametric echo-sounder. The accuracy of the sea bottom structure investigation needs correct configuration
of research equipment and proper calibration of peripheral devices (GPS, heading sensor, MRU-Z motion
sensor and navigation instruments which provide necessary data to bathymetrical measurement system,
enabling its work with full capability. The parametric sub-bottom profiler delivers two types of data which
include different information: envelope and pure echo signal sampled without processing. The first is used
to present echograms in real time and the second one is stored during sounding and the obtained data
can be analyzed by using post-processing software. Differences in the results are presented and discussed.
And, are described also criteria taken into account during determination of the measurement areas and
selection of different configurations of the software according to the information to be obtained from
trials. Complementary information can be achieved from processing the data by means of the procedures
offered by Matlab software, which allows for a clear 3D presentation of the results. The consideration are
illustrated by echograms taken in the natural conditions
Dynamic response analysis of light weight pyramidal sandwich plates subjected to water impact
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhao Fei , Cheng Yuan-Sheng , Liu Jun , Tian Yuan
Published: May 2018

The fluid-solid interaction (FSI) dynamic responses for a Light Weight Pyramidal Sandwich Plate Structure(LWPSPS) under different water-entry velocities (1m/s-6m/s) are investigated numerically and theoretically.The characteristics of impact pressure and structure deformation are obtained by using LS-DYNA codebased on the proposed 3D multi-physics (air-water-solid) FEM model. Numerical results show that theaverage water impact pressure of LWPSPS is much lower than that of the monolithic plate with same mass.Moreover, a phenomenon called “local air cushion” is observed for LWPSPS which does not exist fora monolithic plate. Theoretical hydroelasticity analysis demonstrates that the FSI effect of LWPSPS is weakwhen the ratio of water impact duration time to wet natural vibration period is greater than 4. In the study,an engineering estimation method to predict the maximum deformation of the LWPSPS is proposed, in whichthe total deformation is divided into two parts, i.e. local field deformation and global field deformation,and they are both computed using analytical model. Good agreement between the numerical results andones obtained from the proposed engineering estimation method is achieved. Furthermore, the geometricvariation sensitiveness analysis is also conducted.
Multi-stage magnetic-fluid seals for operating in water – life test procedure, test stand and research results
Authors: Matuszewski Leszek
Published: May 2018

The edge criteria for magnetic-fluid seals durability research are critical for the seal’stechnological usefulness. The magnetic fluid seal technology in water is much moredifficult technological problem in comparison to gas or vacuum environment. There isalways problem with immediate contact between magnetic fluid and the environmentaluninspected liquids. In the paper are presented ways of experiments definitions carried outwith multi-stage rotating magnetic fluid seal operating in permanent contact with utilitywater. The special test procedures have been elaborated and practically used, with theaim to define main characteristics of magnetic fluid seals. These characteristics were: critical pressure,critical motion velocity and working life of the seal. Some grades of commercial, silicon based magneticfluids of hydrophobic properties were tested in sealing system. The test stand and its features as well asresults of tests are presented in the form of tables, cross section draws and diagrams. In conclusion onecan see that multi-stage magnetic-fluid seals could be efficiently used in water for rotating shaft seals ina limited range of motion velocity and work lasting.
Renopathological Microstructure Visualization From Formalin Fixed Kidney Tissue by Matrix-assisted Laser/Desorption Ionization-Time-Offlight Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Authors: Fröhlich S , Putz B , Schachner H , Kerjaschki D , Allmaier G , Marchetti-Deschmann Martina
Published: May 2018

Understanding early stage renal malfunctions with regard to the glomerular filtration processes is essential for nephropathological prescreening strategies and intervention at an early stage. Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) in combination with histopathology can provide an universal analytical approach. Proteomic and lipidomic aspects of glomerular biocompositions were applied for microstructural differentiation in healthy rat kidney samples. Usability of commonly used tissue embedding media and the compatibility of histological staining and fixation methods were of interest. It was demonstrated that ultra-thin tissue samples (500 nm, 1 and 10 µm) can be used for lipid and peptide-based differentiation at the glomerular resolution level in formalin-fixed tissue samples in combination with preceding histological staining for correlating optical and molecular mass images.
Non Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis of Aneuploidy: Next Generation Sequencing or Fetal DNA Enrichment?
Authors: Avent Neil D. , Webb A , Madgett TE , Miran T , Sillence K , Kaushik N , Kiernan M
Published: May 2018

Current invasive procedures [amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS)] pose a risk to mother and fetus and such diagnostic procedures are available only to high risk pregnancies limiting aneuploidy detection rate. This review seeks to highlight the necessity of investing in non invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD) and how NIPD would improve patient safety and detection rate as well as allowing detection earlier in pregnancy. Non invasive prenatal diagnosis can take either a proteomics approach or nucleic acid-based approach; this review focuses on the latter. Since the discovery of cell free fetal DNA (cffDNA) and fetal RNA in maternal plasma, procedures have been developed for detection for monogenic traits and for some have become well established (e.g., RHD blood group status). However, NIPD of aneuploidies remains technically challenging. This review examines currently published literature evaluating techniques and approaches that have been suggested and developed for aneuploidy detection, highlighting their advantages and limitations and areas for further research.
Integrative ‘Omic’ Approach Towards Understanding the Nature of Human Diseases
Authors: Peterlin Borut , Maver A
Published: May 2018

The combination of improving technologies for molecular interrogation of global molecular alterations in human diseases along with increases in computational capacity, have enabled unprecedented insight into disease etiology, pathogenesis and have enabled new possibilities for biomarker development. A large body of data has accumulated over recent years, with a most prominent increase in information originating from genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic profiling levels. However, the complexity of the data made discovery of highorder disease mechanisms involving various biological layers, difficult, and therefore required new approaches toward integration of such data into a complete representation of molecular events occurring on cellular level. For this reason, we developed a new mode of integration of results coming from heterogeneous origins, using rank statistics of results from each profiling level. Due to the increased use of nextgeneration sequencing technology, experimental information is becoming increasingly more associated to sequence information, for which reason we have decided to synthesize the heterogeneous results using the information of their genomic position. We therefore propose a novel positional integratomic approach toward studying ‘omic’ information in human disease.
A Preliminary microRNA Analysis of non Syndromic Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Patuzzo Cristina , Pasquali A , Trabetti E , Malerba G , Pignatii PF , Tessari M , Faggian G
Published: May 2018

The development of thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) involves a multifactorial process resulting in alterations of the structure and composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Recently, modifications in microRNA (miRNA) expression were implicated in the pathogenesis of TAA. This study presents a preliminary miRNA microarray analysis conducted on pooled ascending aorta RNAs obtained from non familial non syndromic TAA patients (five males and five females) compared to matched control pools. Ninety-nine differentially expressed miRNAs with >1.5-foldup- or down-regulation in TAAs compared to controls were identified, 16.0% of which were similarly regulated in the two sexes. Genes putatively targeted by differentially expressed miRNAs belonged preferentially to focal adhesion and adherens junction pathways. The results indicate an altered regulation of miRNA-mediated gene expression in the cellular interactions of aneurysmal aortic wall.
Integrated Genomic Analysis of Breast Cancers
Authors: Chaffanet Max , Addou-Klouche L , Adélaïde J , Cornen S , Bekhouche I , Finetti P , Guille A , Sircoulomb F , Raynaud S , Bertucci F , Birnbaum D
Published: May 2018

Breast cancer is the most frequent and the most deadly cancer in women in Western countries. Different classifications of disease (anatomoclinical, pathological, prognostic, genetic) are used for guiding the management of patients. Unfortunately, they fail to reflect the whole clinical heterogeneity of the disease. Consequently, molecularly distinct diseases are grouped in similar clinical classes, likely explaining the different clinical outcome between patients in a given class, and the fact that selection of the most appropriate diagnostic or therapeutic strategy for each patient is not done accurately. Today, treatment is efficient in only 70.0- 75.0% of cases overall. Our repertoire of efficient drugs is limited but is being expanded with the discovery of new molecular targets for new drugs, based on the identification of candidate oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes (TSG) functionally relevant in disease. Development of new drugs makes therapeutical decisions even more demanding of reliable classifiers and prognostic/predictive tests. Breast cancer is a complex, heterogeneous disease at the molecular level. The combinatorial molecular origin and the heterogeneity of malignant cells, and the variability of the host background, create distinct subgroups of tumors endowed with different phenotypic features such as response to therapy and clinical outcome. Cellular and molecular analyses can identify new classes biologically and clinically relevant, as well as provide new clinically relevant markers and targets.

The various stages of mammary tumorigenesis are not clearly defined and the genetic and epigenetic events critical to the development and aggressiveness of breast cancer are not precisely known. Because the phenotype of tumors is dependent on many genes, a large-scale and integrated molecular characterization of the genetic and epigenetic alterations and gene expression deregulation should allow the identification of new molecular classes clinically relevant, as well as among the altered genes and/or pathways, the identification of more accurate molecular diagnostic, prognostic/predictive factors, and for some of them, after functional validation, the identification of new therapeutic targets.
Genetic Variation of The BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes in Macedonian Patients
Authors: Plaseska-Karanfilska Dijana , Maleva I , Madjunkova S , Bozhinovski G , Smickova E , Kondov G , Spiroski Z , Arsovski A
Published: May 2018

The most significant and well characterized genetic risk factors for breast and/or ovarian cancer are germline mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations strikingly increase breast cancer risk, suggesting that polymorphisms in these genes are logical candidates in seeking to identify low penetrance susceptibility alleles. The aim of this study was to initiate a screen for BRCA1/2 gene mutations in order to identify the genetic variants in the Republic of Macedonia, and to evaluate the association of several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes with breast cancer risk. In this study, we included 100 patients with invasive breast cancer from the Republic of Macedonia, classified according to their family history and 100 controls. The methodology included direct sequencing, single nucleotide primer extension method and multiplex ligation probe amplification (MLPA) analysis, all followed by capillary electrophoresis (CE) on an ABI PRISM™ 3130 Genetic Analyzer. We identified a total of seven carriers of mutations in the BRCA1/2 genes. None of the tested polymorphisms was associated with sporadic breast cancer risk, however, polymorphism rs8176267 in BRCA1 and N372H in BRCA2 showed an association with breast cancer risk in patients with at least one family member with breast cancer.
Wprowadzenie do metod prognozowania ryzyka awarii w środkach transportu
Authors: Tomaszek Henryk , Kaleta Ryszard , Zieja Mariusz
Published: May 2018

W artykule podjęto próbę prognozowania ryzyka szkód w wyniku awarii w środkach transportu.
Przyjęto, że do szacowania ryzyka wykorzystuje się iloczyn prawdopodobieństwa
powstania uszkodzenia (awarii) i miar jego skutków. Przedstawione zależności na ryzyko
szkód bazują na intensywności uszkodzeń. Na podstawie literatury dokonano wstępnego
opisu prawdopodobieństwa uszkodzenia (awarii) i wysokości strat. W pracy podano zależności
na prognozę ryzyka w krótkim oraz dłuższym przedziale czasu. Do określenia zależności
na prognozę prawdopodobieństwa awarii wykorzystano intensywność uszkodzenia
(awarii).
Introduction to methods of describing the forecast on the risk of failure to the means of transport
Authors: Tomaszek Henryk , Kaleta Ryszard , Zieja Mariusz
Published: May 2018

The paper is an attempt to describe the forecast on the risk of damages resulting from
failures to the means of transport. It has been assumed that the product of the probability
of failure (fault) occurrence and measures of effects thereof are to be used to estimate the
risk. The below presented dependences that describe the risk of damages have been
based on the failure rate. With the available literature as the basis, a preliminary description
of the probability of a failure (fault) and the level of losses has been proposed. The
paper gives dependences on short- and long-range risk forecasts. To determine the relationship
for the probability of a failure (fault), the failure rate has been used.
Możliwości diagnozowania skrzyń napędów i zespołów transmisji śmigłowca Mi-24 metodą FAM-C
Authors: Augustyn Sławomir , Gębura Andrzej
Published: May 2018

W publikacji przedstawiono wybrane problemy eksploatacyjne zespołu transmisji śmigłowca
bojowego Mi-24. Podjęto próbę przedstawienia prognozy zagrożeń dla zespołu transmisji
tego śmigłowca. Prognozę oparto na analizie przebiegów FAM-C oraz częściowo na
wynikach pomiarów mechanicznych zdemontowanych podzespołów. Główną uwagę zwrócono
na możliwości diagnozowania miejsc zagrożeń w elementach konstrukcji śmigłowca
Mi-24 za pomocą nieinwazyjnej metody diagnostycznej FAM-C, opracowanej w ITWL.
Metoda ta jest oparta na śledzeniu parametrów modulacji częstotliwości generowanych
przez prądnicę pokładową prądu przemiennego zabudowaną na skrzynce napędów
w przekładni głównej WR-24. Badanie to nie wymaga instalowania żadnych dodatkowych
czujników, gdyż przetwornikami diagnostycznymi są etatowe prądnice pokładowe oraz
prądnice tachometryczne. Podczas pomiaru FAM-C zespół transmisji nie doznaje żadnych
dodatkowych obciążeń ani zniekształceń prędkości obrotowej.
Capabilities of the FAM-C method to diagnose the accessory gearboxes and transmission -train assemblies of the MI-24 helicopters
Authors: Augustyn Sławomir , Gębura Andrzej
Published: May 2018

The study has been intended to present some selected service-imposed issues with the
transmission system of the Mi-24 combat helicopter. An attempt has been made to present
predictions about possible threats/hazards to the transmission system of this helicopter.
The forecast has been based on the FAM-C analysis of changes in instantaneous frequency
against time and, to some extent, on mechanical measurements of disassembled structural
components/subassemblies. The greatest emphasis has been laid on capabilities to
identify and diagnose locations in structural components of the Mi-24 helicopter (where
many and various hazards may arise) using the non-destructive diagnostic method FAM-C
developed at ITWL (Air Force Institute of Technology). The method has been based on the
tracking of parameters of modulation of airborne alternator produced frequencies. The
testing requires no extra sensors, since the built-in airborne AC, DC, and tachogenerators
themselves are the diagnostic transducers. While taking FAM-C measurements, the
transmission system experiences no extra loads or rotational-speed distortions.
Investigations to check applicability of 1st generation biocomponents to fuels for turbine aircraft engines
Authors: Dzięgielewski Wojciech , Gawron Bartosz
Published: May 2018

The study outlines results from the studies on applicability of 1st generation biocomponent,
namely long-chain fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) of vegetable origin, as an ingredient to
fuels used to supply turbine aircraft engines. The presented analysis refers to both physical
and chemical properties of developed fuel mixtures of Jet A-1 pure kerosene fuel with
various amounts of the FAME additive and is based on own results obtained from tests of
turbine engines on workbenches. The experiment results indicate that there are virtually no
chances to apply the 1st generation biocomponents of the FAME type to aircrafts, however
it is possible to seek for application opportunities of such biocomponents to other turbine
engines, different from the aviation engineering.
Epr Hyperfine Structure Of Radiation Defect In Oxyfluoride Glass Ceramics/ Radiācijas Defekta Epr Hipersīkstruktūra Oksifluorīdu Stikla Keramikā
Authors: Bērziņš D. , Fedotovs A. , Rogulis U.
Published: May 2018

We have investigated the samples of thermally treated oxyfluoride glass ceramics 50SiO2-25LiO2-20YF3-3ErF3-2YbF2 by means of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) techniques. After irradiation of the samples with X-rays, in the EPR spectra a hyperfine structure characteristic of F-centres could be observed in different fluoride crystals. The structure of F-centre in the oxyfluoride glass ceramics containing LiYF4 crystallites is discussed.
Receiving And Data Acquisition Systems Of Rt-32 For Vlbi Observations / Rt-32 Uztveršanas Un Datu Reģistrācijas Sistēmas Vlbi Novērojumiem
Authors: Bezrukovs Vl. , Shmeld I. , Nechaeva M. , Trokss J. , Bezrukovs D. , Klapers M. , Berzins A. , Lesins A. , Dugin N.
Published: May 2018

Radiotelescope RT-32 is a fully steerable 32-m parabolic antenna located at Irbene and belonging to Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC). Currently, the work on upgrading and repair of its receiving hardware and data acquisition systems is of high priority for the VIRAC.

One of the main scientific objectives for the VIRAC Radioastronomical observatory is VLBI (very long baseline interferometry) observations in centimetre wavelengths in collaboration with world VLBI networks, such as European VLBI network (EVN), Low Frequency VLBI network (LFVN), and others.

During the last years the room in the secondary focus of telescope was reconstructed, and several new receivers were installed. Currently, RT-32 observations are carried out in four different bands: 92 cm, 18 cm, 6 cm, and 2.5 cm. First three of them are already successfully employed in diversified VLBI experiments. The receiver on 2.5 cm band has only one linear polarized chain and is used mainly for the methanol maser single dish observations.

The apparatus system of RT-32 is equipped with two independent VLBI data acquisition systems: TN-16, and DBBC in combination with MK5b. Both systems are employed in interferometric observations depending on the purpose of experiment and the enabled radiotelescopes.

The current status of RT-32, the availability of its receiving and data acquisition units for VLBI observations and the previous VLBI sessions are discussed.
Perceptual global processing and hierarchically organized affordances – the lack of interaction between vision-for-perception and vision-for-action.
Authors: Styrkowiec Piotr , Nęcka Edward
Published: May 2018

In visual information processing, two kinds of vision are distinguished: vision-for-perception related to the
conscious identifi cation of objects, and vision-for-action that deals with visual control of movements. Neuroscience
suggests that these two functions are performed by two separate brain neural systems - the ventral and dorsal pathways
(Milner and Goodale, 1995). Two experiments using behavioural measures were conducted with the objective of exploring
any potential interaction between these two functions of vision. The aim was to combine in one task methods allowing
for the simultaneous capture of both perceptual global processing and affordance extraction and to check whether they
infi uence each other. This aim was achieved by employing the paradigms of Navon (1977) and Tucker and Ellis (1998).
A compound fi gure was created made up of objects with handles that might or might not have orientation congruent
between levels. The results revealed that while the affordance effect occurred every time, the Navon effect appeared only
when subjects focused their attention on object elements responsible for inconsistence within compound fi gure. Most
importantly, even when these two effects occurred at once, they had no effect on each other. Results from the study failed
to confi rm the hypothesis about interaction and gives support to the view that vision-for-perception and vision-for-action
tend to act as separate systems.
The foremost gift or the impossible ideal to reach? Valorial components of forgiveness among Italian adolescents
Authors: Szcześniak Małgorzata , Vitali Martina , Rondón Gloria
Published: May 2018

In the year 2006, the American Psychological Association published a series of Research Briefs brochures to make availableto the public short outlines on contemporary psychological studies of themes relevant to the United Nations’ mission. Oneof the items that was listed and given a considerable attention within the psychological fi eld was ‘forgiveness’. Thatinitiative, despite the fact that forgiveness has been considered rather a theological issue, has generated a great interestamong psychologists, thus leading them to undertake some projects on forgiveness. In accordance with this concept offorgiveness, we chose in this research to investigate an individual’s ability to forgive as related to a basic human value.The study involved 274 Italian adolescents between 14 and 19 years of age. To measure variables involved in the researchwe used the following instruments: Transgression-Related Interpersonal Motivations Inventory (TRIM-12), The MaritalOffence-Specifi c Forgiveness Scale (MOFS) adapted to the adolescents’ sample, Trait Forgiveness Scale (TFS), andPortrait Values Questionnaire (PVQ). The results obtained in the study show that forgiveness is positively related to selftranscendentand conservation values, and negatively correlated with self-enhancement and openness to change values.
Interpreters of the Constitution: The Problem of Typology
Authors: Mesonis Gediminas
Published: May 2018

The significance of the most important legal act-the Constitution-to the social medium is evident. This constituent act of the nation determines the legal, political, moral and social life of the social medium. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the Constitution-the content of this constituent act-is the object of everybody’s attention. The Constitution is interpreted by lawyers, public leaders, state institutions, scholars and individual persons. The article analyses the wide-ranging subjects interpreting the Constitution and presents the types of its interpreters. The three most prominent groups of such subjects can be distinguished as: (i) institutions of constitutional justice, (ii) the scholarly doctrine, and (iii) other subjects. The article discusses the legal, scientific and social value of interpretations of the Constitution formulated by these interpreters. It is held that the most meaningful thing in this typology is distinguishing the interpretations according to the factor of their legal effects. The differing scientific, legal and social value of the interpretations does not deny the factor of the significance of their existence. It is recognised that a large number of interpretations of the content of the Constitution come from an immanently related state of discussions taking place in a state under the rule of law and democratic society.
Pro Bono Work vs. Legal Aid: Approaches to Ensuring Access to Justice and the Social Responsibility of the Attorney
Authors: Gruodytė Edita , Kirchner Stefan
Published: May 2018

In many jurisdictions middle- and low-income individuals obtain only a relatively modest share of lawyers’ services. In a society ruled by law, every person should be able to expect key principles of justice to apply. Among the most important dimensions of a right to a fair trial is the right to equal access to an attorney. After all, the attorney is not merely a commercial actor but also represents the legal system. Access to an attorney is a key step in providing justice in practice. Many states have developed programs of legal aid which aim at providing those who are in need of legal assistance but cannot afford to pay for legal services with a way to receive legal services. Scientific literature distinguishes various forms and instruments of legal aid: the court appointment of lawyers, free or low cost legal aid provided by public agencies and charitable and fraternal organizations, sometimes mixed with legal expenses insurance, contingency fee and the free services of lawyers who are serving probono publico. From the perspective of practicing attorneys, this article presents and compares existing systems of legal assistance in Lithuania and Germany, and their availability and effectiveness, in order to answer the question whether the social responsibility of attorneys and access to justice is obtained.
Faculty Intellectual Property Rights in Canadian Universities
Authors: Kiškis Mindaugas
Published: May 2018

This article reports on a qualitative study of Intellectual Property regulation in Canadian universities, visited by the author. The study was based on policy and regulation comparative analysis, as well as semi-structured expert interviews carried out at Southern Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia universities. The principal assumption and purpose of the study is the useful understanding of the Canadian university intellectual property policies for potential applications to Lithuania and other emerging economies in the Baltic region and elsewhere. The study aimed to review and identify features of Canadian university intellectual property regimes, which can be held responsible for stimulating and sustaining technological innovation.