bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APOL1 Genotype and Renal Function of Black Living Donors
Authors: Doshi Mona D. , Ortigosa-Goggins Mariella , Garg Amit X. , Li Lihua , Poggio Emilio D. , Winkler Cheryl A. , Kopp Jeffrey B.
Published: January 2018

Black living kidney donors are at higher risk of developing kidney disease than white donors. We examined the effect of the APOL1 high-risk genotype on postdonation renal function in black living kidney donors and evaluated whether this genotype alters the association between donation and donor outcome. We grouped 136 black living kidney donors as APOL1 high-risk (two risk alleles; n=19; 14%) or low-risk (one or zero risk alleles; n=117; 86%) genotype. Predonation characteristics were similar between groups, except for lower mean±SD baseline eGFR (CKD-EPI equation) in donors with the APOL1 high-risk genotype (98±17 versus 108±20 ml/min per 1.73 m2; P=0.04). At a median of 12 years after donation, donors with the APOL1 high-risk genotype had lower eGFR (57±18 versus 67±15 ml/min per 1.73 m2; P=0.02) and faster decline in eGFR after adjusting for predonation eGFR (1.19; 95% confidence interval, 0 to 2.3 versus 0.4; 95% confidence interval, 0.1 to 0.7 ml/min per 1.73 m2 per year, P=0.02). Two donors developed ESRD; both carried the APOL1 high-risk genotype. In a subgroup of 115 donors matched to 115 nondonors by APOL1 genotype, we did not find a difference between groups in the rate of eGFR decline (P=0.39) or any statistical interaction by APOL1 status (P=0.92). In conclusion, APOL1 high-risk genotype in black living kidney donors associated with greater decline in postdonation kidney function. Trajectory of renal function was similar between donors and nondonors. The association between APOL1 high-risk genotype and poor renal outcomes in kidney donors requires validation in a larger study.
La Investigación en Educación Matemática y Práctica Pedagógica, perspectiva de Licenciados en matemáticas en formación.
Authors: Conde Carmona Robinson Junior , Valbuena Duarte Sonia , Ortiz Ortiz Joseph David
Published: January 2018

Objetivo: Este artículo tiene como objetivo comprender la percepción que tienen de la investigación, los maestros en formación de un programa de licenciados en Matemáticas, y su relación con la Práctica Pedagógica.Método: Se entrevistaron Maestros en formación inicial de quinto a último semestre,la muestra fue por saturación, con el fin de ver sus perspectivas de dichos procesos, además de confrontarlo con constructo del ideal teórico, lo cual permite realizar una reflexión de cómo se están dando estos procesos en la alma mater.Resultados: Se evidenció que hay una desarticulación de lo que es práctica pedagógica e investigación en educación matemática, además de esto, los licenciados en formación no consideran la investigación importante dentro de su práctica, ni en su campo profesional.Conclusión: El trabajo se pudo concluir que los licenciados en formación expresaronque no se sienten con las suficientes competencias para hacer un trabajo de investigación, además de eso no ven necesario tenerlas porque no consideran la investigación un componente importante dentro de sus práctica pedagógica.
Bacterial transformation v1
Authors: Floor Stephen
Published: January 2018

Standard protocol to transform bacteria with a plasmid using chemically competent E. coli and antibiotic resistance.
Feratures of induced brain activity during the analysis of emotional images of carriers of polymorphic variants of genes BDNF and HTR2A
Authors: Ermakov P.N. , Vorobyeva E.V. , Kovsh E.M. , Stoletniy A.S.
Published: January 2018

The article presents the results of the study of induced brain activity in carriers of polymorphic variants of the gene of the brain neurotrophic factor BDNF and the gene of the receptor serotonin HTR2A, obtained in the evaluation of stimulatory images of emotionogenic character. The image database used in the work included 573 images assigned to three groups: neutral, positive, negative. 40 people of both sexes aged 19—22 years were examined. The isolation of DNA from the buccal epithelium cells was carried out by PCR (OOO «BiReT», Moscow, Russia). During the genetic analysis, the following DNA sections were analyzed: Neurotrophic factor of the brain BDNF, Serotonin receptor HTR2A. To register the electroencephalogram and evoked potentials (EP) of the brain, a multichannel electroencephalograph Neurovisor-136 (manufactured by ISS, Russia) was used. The recording was carried out unipolarly according to the «5—5» scheme in 128 leads. As a result of the study, it was found that in persons with a heterozygous Val / Met genotype of the cerebral neurotrophic factor BDNF, a more pronounced emotional response to both positive and negative stimuli was observed. For persons with a homozygous Val / Val genotype, a more detailed treatment of the details of the visual image is characteristic. For persons with a dominant homozygous G / G genotype of the HTR2A serotonin receptor gene, weighted decision-making in stimulus analysis is characteristic. In individuals with recessive homozygous genotype A / A HTR2A, evaluating the visual stimulus as negative requires the use of significantly larger brain resources, compared to the carriers of the dominant allele G.
FORMATION OF AN OBJECTIVES HIERARCHY IN TASKS OF ORGANIZATIONAL SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT
Authors:   Volgograd State Technical University, Parygin D. , Sadovnikova N. ,   Volgograd State Technical University, Shabalina O. ,   Volgograd State Technical University, Korneev I. ,   Volgograd State Technical University
Published: January 2018

Structuring objectives is a key problem in the management of socio-economic systems. The lack of effective mechanisms capable to harmonize the objectives of all stakeholders involved in the process of forming the objectives hierarchy is a significant drawback of existing approaches. An attempt to combine different directions within the framework of a unified approach to structuring the objectives of the development of socio-economic systems, taking the collective generalization of subjective images of the desired future into account, is performed in the paper. The problem of knowledge extraction and structuring is considered in the framework of the development of the approach to the collective formation of the vision of the system. It is for the first time proposed to conduct identification of the structure of relationships in complex systems on the basis of a developed algorithm that formalizes the steps of the “Socratic dialogue” method. It is proposed to evaluate the achievability of the current goal using the method of fuzzy hierarchical estimation. The novelty of the conducted research consists in combining all stages of formation of the target hierarchy in a single method that allows to formalize the stages of system identification, definition and coordination of objectives and assessment of achievability.
Mathematics in early childhood: Nourishing and nurturing Te Kakano
Authors: McChesney Jane
Published: January 2018

Mathematics learning in early childhood education is strongly supported by existing resources of a mathematical framework (Te Kākano) and a curriculum tool, Te Aho Tukutuku. With the publication of the update of Te Whāriki, this article revisits these three resources in order to identify important threads of mathematical learning. A discussion of mathematical practices with examples sets out possibilities for further strengthening of early childhood mathematics.
Young children’s creativity in natural outdoor settings
Authors: Quayle Kathleen
Published: January 2018

Young children’s increased engagement with technology and “screen time” has created growing concern about children’s opportunities for connecting with nature. This article draws on data from three early childhood education (ECE) settings in New Zealand that prioritise the provision of regular experiences of natural outdoor environments. The article focuses on how young children respond creatively to elements of natural outdoor settings. The findings highlight some of the unique characteristics of these settings and how children’s creativity is supported through meaningful engagement with natural environments.
The relationship between M3 and consumer price index in the Czech Republic
Authors: Cernohorska Libena
Published: January 2018

The aim of this paper is to analyse the influence of monetary aggregate M3 on consumer price index (CPI) in the Czech Republic. Co-integration of this selected indicator M3 is demonstrated in relation to the development of CPI using the Engle â€“ Granger co-integration test. These tests are applied to selected statistical data from 2003 to 2016. First step is to determine the optimum delay using Akaike criteria for all-time series analysed. Then the presence of a unit root is analysed using the Dickeyâ€“Fuller test. Based on the test results, time series is excluded, which appears to be stationary. If the conditions are met, testing then continued with the Engleâ€“Granger test to detect cointegration relations, which would determine a longterm relationship between selected variables. Based on these tests, it is found that at a significance level of 0.05 doesnâ€™t exist cointegration relationship between M3 and CPI in the Czech Republic. Conclusions resulting from the verification of the hypotheses are supported with graphical visualisation of data from which it is apparent that these hypotheses can be rejected. Keywords: Akaike crieteria, Dickeyâ€“Fuller test, Engleâ€“Granger cointegration test, CPI, M3.
Efficiency of innovation system in the Czech Republic: Comparison with other European countries
Authors: Jurickova Eva
Published: January 2018

This paper examines the efficiency of the innovation system in the Czech Republic compared to other European Union countries. The analysis is based on a data envelopment method using a model containing innovation drivers, knowledge creation and indicators of innovation and entrepreneurship as inputs, and intellectual property and application assets producing outputs of the national innovation systems of selected European countries. The data envelopment analysis method focuses on non-parametric linear programming, examining the relative performance and efficiency of particular units under a constant return to scale, converting inputs into outputs as variables of modelling. The measured technical efficiency indicates a difference in performance of innovation systems of selected countries of the European Union and compares an obtained score in efficiency evaluated in the model. The Czech Republic belongs to the moderate group in terms of innovation performance; its national innovation system is characterised by weaknesses in intellectual assets and research. Keywords: Innovation, national innovation system, DEA modelling, technical efficiency.
An investigation of the relationship between logistics information quality and LIS use based on structural equation modelling approach: The case of automotive and aerospace companies in Morocco
Authors: Boubker Omar
Published: January 2018

The objective of this paper is to test the relation between the logistics information quality (LIQ) and logistics information system (LIS) use behaviour among logisticians of the automotive and aerospace industries in Morocco. We developed a theoretical model based on literature review and performed a survey of 15 logisticians from six different companies. Finally, we made an exploratory quantitative analysis on the basis of the first data collect, principal component analysis â€“ using SPSS. Confirmatory factor analysis was done using AMOS. The obtained results indicate that LIQ occupies a central and dominating place in the Moroccan context. Also, this variable directly determines LIS use among logisticians. The research also establishes a theoretical contribution and a practical one. Managers in the logistics & IT department in the Moroccan automotive and aerospace industries can utilise our new model to undertake managerial actions and increase the level of LIS use, by improving the LIQ. Keywords: Logistics Information Systems (LIS), Logistics Information Quality (LIQ), Structural Equations Modelling, LIS Use, automotive industry, aerospace industry;
Environmental analysis of auto industry in Iran: Analysing the internal and external environment of IKCO corporation
Authors: Safari Mohammad
Published: January 2018

The automotive industry includes all design, development, manufacture and selling accessories for motorised means of transportation. Iran is among the worldâ€™s 20 largest automotive manufacturers and is in the number one position in the Middle East. Iran Khodro is the largest and most important car manufacturer in Iran and the Middle East, which was founded in 1341. It produces a variety of light and heavy vehicles in collaboration with foreign partners or alone. The aim of this study is investigating and analysing the internal and external environment of automobile manufacturing industry in Iran emphasising on Iran Khodro automobile manufacturing company. For the purpose of this study, the accumulated data of Iran Khodro automobile manufacturing company were analysed and the most important strengths and weaknesses point were compiled and presented in the aspect of internal environment and opportunities and threats in the aspect of external environment. Keywords: Strategy, strategic planning, environmental analysis, weakness, strengths, Iran Khodro.
The relationship between M3 and consumer price index in the Czech Republic
Authors: Cernohorska Libena
Published: January 2018

This paper aimed at analysing the influence of monetary aggregate M3 on consumer price index (CPI) in the Czech Republic. Cointegrating this selected indicator M3 is demonstrated in relation to the development of CPI using the Engle – Granger cointegration test. These tests are applied to selected statistical data from the years 2003 to 2016. After using the Akaike criteria for all-time series, we analysed a unit root using the Dickey–Fuller test. If the time series are non-stacionary, testing is then continued with the Engle–Granger test to detect cointegration relations. Based on these tests, it is found that at a significance level of 0.05, a cointegration relationship between M3 and CPI in the Czech Republic does not exist. Conclusions resulting from the verification of the hypotheses are supported with graphical visualisation of data from which it is apparent that these hypotheses can be rejected. Keywords: M3; Czech Republic ; CPI ; Akaike criteria
Organisational agility and KM strategy: Are they effective tools for achieving sustainable organisational excellence?
Authors: Saha Nibedita
Published: January 2018

This paper deliberates the influence of organisational agility (OA) on knowledge management (KM), which enables organisations to survive and achieve their competitive advantage through developing and integrating the KM strategy and sustainable knowledge transfer capability. Currently, the conception of agility has become widespread in organisational performance and in the knowledge development process. How organisations define an agile knowledge development process, how we know that an organisationâ€™s KM strategy is agile and how we can assume that an organisation can achieve and sustain their excellence through OA and KM strategy are the questions addressed in this paper. It presents the concept of OA of KM and provides an approach for the significance of this agility, with a knowledge development approach that appraises the agility as an amalgamation function. It combines the competence of individual and organisational presentation and other complementary aspects. Keywords: Competencies, competitive advantage, efficiency, effectiveness, knowledge management, organisational agility, strategy, organisational performance.
Fuzzy set theoryâ€“based model for identifying the potential for improving process KPI in production logistics area
Authors: Hrusecka Denisa
Published: January 2018

The high complexity of todayÂ´s manufacturing environment brings many problems with planning and managing, especially production, logistic and other key business processes. In many cases, it is quite complicated to identify the real causes of problems that enterprise faces or to decide which one of them should be solved as a first. Especially, in the case of large enterprises, it is quite complicated to access expertise among all departments and employed professionals in order to solve the problems in the most efficient way. The purpose of our fuzzy model is to provide a simple tool for easy identification of the most significant problems of observed processes that causes their low performance according to the measured values of their key performance indicators (KPIs). The model is based on data gained through the interviews with production managers, industry experts and other professionals, and it was verified by real data from one model company. The results are presented in the form of case study in this contribution. Keywords: Production logistics, key performance indicators (KPI), productivity, problem identification, fuzzy set theory, process.
Enterprise social networks as a supporting tool in the digital economy
Authors: Skoludova Jana
Published: January 2018

Digital economy refers to an economy that is based on digital computing technologies. It is widely accepted that the growth of the digital economy has widespread impact on the economy as a whole. Companies have been trying to respond to the changes of the digital economy, and they have been integrating information technology management into their enterprises. The goal of this paper is to determine the benefits of Enterprise Social Networks in companies. The methodology of this paper is based on comparative qualitative research using a survey conducted in the Czech Republic across business sectors. The research focuses on costs related to the use of Enterprise Social Networks. The results indicate the possible use of modern technologies for more effective business management. This paper discusses the use of the latest trends and innovations concerning technologies to help managers effectively convey internal information within the digital economy. Keywords: Digital economy, information technology, enterprise social network.
Modern methods for the cost management and process improvement integrated in the change management
Authors: Marcinekova Katarina
Published: January 2018

The process of evaluation and monitoring of changes is difficult. The aim of change implementation is to achieve a positive effect. Adoption of an appropriate method is dependent on many different factors as well as an evaluation of a change influence. In the connection with that it is necessary to deal with process improvement. The utilisation of modern approaches in the Cost Management is really important. The aim of the paper is to show partial results of the primary quantitative research focusing on the Change Management integrated to the area of cost calculation, change effects and process optimisation. The data was acquired via questionnaire. Respondents would fill the questionnaire in online form as well as through personal interview. The questions were focused on the range of the utilisation of the modern methods, tools, indicators and calculations by Slovak enterprises. The tools of descriptive and inductive statistics were used for data analysis. Keywords: Process optimisation, calculation, cost, change management.
Do operations in SEZs improve a firmâ€™s productivity? Evidence from Poland
Authors: Nazarczuk JarosÅ‚aw MichaÅ‚
Published: January 2018

Special economic zones (SEZs) play a significant role in global, national and regional trade flows. Given the insufficient number of empirical contributions regarding firm-level consequences of operation in SEZs, an analysis in which implications for firmsâ€™ standings is undertaken. With the use of different estimation approaches, applied to a unique dataset comprising 155 SEZs firms and 155 non-SEZs firms (matched sample) obtained from various sources, the author investigates if SEZs firms obtain a competitive advantage through higher productivity compared to non-SEZs firms. The results prove that SEZ firms differ in this regard. However, the sign of its contribution is conditioned by the type of productivity analysed. Keywords: Special economic zones; SEZ; polish economy; productivity differentials; firm heterogeneity.
The effects of intentions of consumersâ€™ electronic word-of-mouth communication on their decisions of buying
Authors: Gurbuz Ahmet
Published: January 2018

Word-of-mouth (WOM) communication, seen as an important subject by researchers and practitioners for a long time, is a process of consumers who provide other customers some information about a product, a service, a brand or a company. If this process takes place on the Internet (e.g. reviews, tweets, blog entries, â€˜likesâ€™, images and videos), it is called e-WOM, and it is seen as an important development in contemporary behaviours of consumers. Opinions disappear after a while in offline WOM, but online WOM causes a permanent public opinion. For this reason, e-WOM draws considerable attention from both academics and practitioners. With the rapid development in e-trade, while a growing number of products are sold, these selling are accompanied by a vast variety of customer review and feedbacks. Online customer reviews provide important information about a product, a service, a brand or a company. Analysing and evaluating the WOM are very crucial for helping companies and customers decide. In this research, the effects of e-WOM on buying decisions of consumers are studied. In the research, young consumers, using the online platforms very often, are targeted, the effects of online information sharing on buying, rebuying and replacing behaviours are focused and a questionnaire, implemented on 360 consumers, is interpreted by presenting data obtained from the questionnaire. Keywords: E-wom, word-of-mouth marketing, purchasing decisions, Internet Communication
Labour control regimes and resistance of workers: A field study on Denizli textile workers
Authors: Sahin Hande
Published: January 2018

Parallel to the capitalist development processes, the nature and varieties of control regimes have been changed. The control has been sometimes conducted directly, sometimes indirectly. But the common point of each control mechanism is the complexity of different practices of management and what workers do with these practices. In the first years of capitalism, labour control regimes are generally simple and direct. Together with Taylorism, it has gained technical importance and now become more hegemonic. The aim of this study is to examine the labour control regimes and resistances of workers to these regimes through a case study. For this purpose, in-depth interviews were conducted with a total of 45 workers, one factory owner, one general manager, two department managers, two chiefs, one foreman, three subcontractor workshop owners in Denizli textile. The results show that workers develop very limited resistance, and the working conditions determine the resistance strategies of workers. Keywords: Labour control regimes, resistance of workers, Turkey.
Linear programming model for optimum mixing the flour from sieve passages in flour mill industry
Authors: Avunduk Huseyin
Published: January 2018

This study is to design a linear programming model for optimising the mixtures of flour which comes from different sieve passages in flour mill industry. There are different kinds of flour in the market which have different market prices and each has different properties and used for different purposes. The flour obtained from the sieve passages which can be more than 100 in flour milling factories. The characteristics of flour in each sieve passage are different. The main problem is to find out flour mixture plan from sieve passages of the factory in order to maximise the company sales revenue by taking into account the market demand for flour, market prices of flour, sieve passage flour flows and each sieve passage flour properties. In this study, a linear programming model has been developed to support the decision makers for sieve passage flour mixtures optimisation. Keywords: Linear programming, flour mill Ä±ndustry, sieve passage, flour mixture optimisation.
Corruption and its impact on foreign direct investment
Authors: Linhartova Veronika
Published: January 2018

Some studies show the negative impact of corruption on foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The high level of corruption can cause a direct reduction of FDI because of the bad reputation of the country abroad. Recent studies, however, also point to a possible reverse trend where countries with higher corruption are for some investors very attractive. This paper focuses on verification of the existence of relationship between the level of corruption and FDI and the impact of corruption on FDI in selected group of countries in period 1998â€“2015. The use of correlation analysis reveals a significant relationship between FDI and corruption. Regression analysis reveals the negative impact of corruption on FDI, particularly in countries with high levels of corruption. This analysis confirms the dependence of FDI on the level of corruption in the country especially in countries with a high level of corruption. Fighting corruption could be considered as a tool supporting investment inflows in these countries. Keywords: Corruption, foreign direct investment (FDI), Corruption perception index (CPI), correlation analysis, regression analysis.
Agriculture gross production value â€“ arable land â€“ active population in agricultural sector and energy consumption causality in 76 countries: A dynamic panel data approach
Authors: Guellil Mohammed Seghir
Published: January 2018

The overall goal of this paper is to investigate the long run and casual relationship between agriculture gross production value (AGPV), arable land (AL), total economically active population in agricultural sector (APA) and total primary energy consumption in the agricultural sector given the historical trend of these variables. For a panel of 76 countries during the period 1991â€“2012, the paperâ€™s three main findings are that: (i) Neutrality hypothesis is adopted because there is no causality between AL and AGPV.; (ii) APA-led AGPV; (iii) Feedback hypothesis indicates that there are four cases of bidirectional causality between the rest of the variables. Adaptation measures are recommended for both authorities and farmers to ensure food security, such as providing incentives for farmers to adopt more recent technologies, which consumes less energy, land reclamation, steer more employees towards the agricultural sector. Keywords: Agriculture gross production value, arable land, active population, energy consumption, panel co-integration, panel Granger causality.
Doctrine of social functions of property for human flourishing (study of squatters residential relocation policy in catchment area Bengawan Solo River)
Authors: Handayani I. Gusti Ayu Ketut Rachmi
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this research was to confirm the doctrine of the social function of property as an instrument for realising humans flourishing in the case of Surakarta City Government policy to relocate squatters in the catchment area of the Bengawan Solo River. This normative legal research used a conceptual approach. To obtain answers to the problems, the research used deductive syllogism. The major premise is used as the doctrine of the social function of property, the theory of justice and the principle of trust and a reasonable expectation, while the minor premise is the policy of the Government of Surakarta relocating squatters in the catchment area of the Solo River. Using the resulting conclusions, confirmation of doctrinal interpretation of the social function of property as an instrument for realising human flourishing is done. The conclusions of this study is the social function of property requires the Authority of Central Region Bengawan Solo River to manage riparian appropriate allocation function as flood control. Implementation of this obligation is to realise the basic right on healthy living environment. Based on the doctrine of the social function of property, then the omission and legalisation of illegal occupancy in the Bengawan Solo River catchment area create liability for the Government of Surakarta, the Authority of Central River Region Solo, and Land National Agency, to finance the relocation of squatters in the catchment area of the Solo River. Squatters relocation is intended for human fulfillment flourishing. Keywords: Social function of property, human flourishing, relocation of squatters.
Physical activity as a factor of health-related behaviour in Czech adults
Authors: Sindelarova Kristyna
Published: January 2018

Physical activity is an important salutoprotective component of health-related behaviour, which delays cardiovascular ageing and prolongs life. The aim of this research is to map the extent of physical activity carried out by adults in the Czech Republic, assess the influence of determinants of physical activity and examine the relationship between physical activity and subjective health complaints. The research sample consisted of 1,263 Czech adult respondents aged 22â€“93. The volume of physical activity decreases with age. Based on regression analysis, we identified the strongest predictors of physical activity such as age, gender and the personality dimensions of ascendancy and vigour (according to Gordon Personal Profile - Inventory (GPP-I)). Men are more physically active than women, yet 51% of all respondents did not meet the minimum recommended amount of sports physical activity. It was confirmed that the higher extent of physical activity reduces the number of health complaints. Keywords: Physical activity (overall, sports, non-sports), health-promoting behavior, health complaints, age.
Comparative study regarding the bio-motric potential of rural and urban students
Authors: Lupu Gabriel
Published: January 2018

The issue of the biomotric potential represents a morphological and functional synthesis and requires careful and detailed investigation to establish its various stages and interconnections. The main goal of this study was to conduct a unitary evaluation of the biomotric potential of pupils in high school classes.There are few studies for the determination of the motric and somato-functional potential of the school population in general, but there is no comparison study between pupils of the urban and rural environments. Information about pupilsâ€™ physical development, scarce skills of their locomotor system and body position, as well as about their fitness condition are derived from the evaluation of their biomotric potential. As conclusions, we may assert that the required tests should be distinctively approached as evaluation, there should be higher concern for equipment of educational infrastructure in the rural environment, as well as a nutrition programme to support rural high school students. Keywords: Biomotric potential, urban/rural, school population.
Study Regarding the Incidence of Physical Deficiencies in Fighting Sports Athletes
Authors: Dobrescu Tatiana
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this research is to identify physical deficiencies in fighting sports athletes. It was conducted at the Childrenâ€™s Palace (judo), the School Sports Club (wrestling) and the â€˜Am Duongâ€™ Sports Club (martial arts) of Bacau, Romania, and it studied three groups of subjects, each comprising seven male athletes, aged 13â€“16. The research methods used in this research were the documentation method, the observation method, the inquiry, the assessment, the experimental method, the analysis of the results and the graphical representation. The assessment method used was somatoscopy and the objective methods were the instrumental somatoscopic of the body alignment and somatometry. The results show a homogeneous distribution of the results for the three groups, with more than 42% of the athletes having a lumbar and cervical lordosis. In the other two groups, the distribution is homogeneous, 57.1% recording a correct posture, and 42.9% a frontally inclined head position. Keywords: Incidence, physical deficiencies, fighting sports, athletes
Observational study regarding the spine deviations in frontal plane, in a school population
Authors: Balint Nela-Tatiana
Published: January 2018

Physical deficiency represents deviations from the normal that lead to unbalances and disharmonious progress through morphofunctional disturbances. Various national studies show that most spine deviations are functional, representing deficient positions through supervision, correction of the position and physical therapy, which can regress, preventing an unfavorable progress and allowing a normal growth and a harmonious physical development. The purpose of this study is to spot and observe the spine deviations in the frontal plane, in a school population. For this, several subjective and objective methods were used. Based on the recorded results, it can be said that the number of children identified with these deviations is growing. Considering these facts, the authors of this study think that the teachers, the parents and the school physician should put more effort into the early prevention and correction. Keywords: Study, deviation, pupil, frontal plane.
Progressive neuromuscular control improvement by using extrinsic feedback as learning tool, in swimming
Authors: Ilie Mihai
Published: January 2018

In this study, we started from the hypothesis that if we use the nautical sports simulator as learning mean and a tool to create visually extrinsic feedback, then we will be able to determine an effective change in the sensory-motor response at upper limb in order to improve progressive neuromuscular control. Using feedback as learning and optimizing mean of training is one of the desires of athletes training and, at the same time, an objective mean of raising the athleteâ€™s awareness of the way in which he manifests his motor behaviour. The importance of implementing feedback in the training of athletes is also highlighted by the achievement of valuable results both in individual sports and in sports games. The ways that feedback can be implemented in the training varies according to the purpose, the specificity of the sport, the way of interpretation and the approach of its results. The purpose of this research was to improve de capacity of the progressive neuromuscular control at the upper limbs level, in swimming, using extrinsic feedback. The experimental approach was carried out within the research centre for human performance from University of Pitesti, Romania and had four junior as participants with 7â€“10 years experience in this sport, national medalists and champions. External feedback was provided using a nautical condition simulator that provided graphical trajectories specific to how they managed to control the level of force exerted on the palm. The training plan involved 15â€“20 minutes training for each swimmer with a frequency of two sessions per week for 3 weeks for each technical aspect of the research. The results reflected how each athlete managed to correct the sensory response according to the given stimulus. During the study, the swimmers expressed varied ways of adapting to the stimuli, having the greatest difficulties of neuromotor reorganisation especially in the transition to the last level of force increase. In conclusion, the approach confirmed that extrinsic feedback is an objective mean of sensory-motor learning and reorganization and, implicitly, an improvement tool of progressive neuromuscular control in swimming, the logistic actuators having a decisive role in achieving the purpose of the research. Keywords: Motor learning, nautical simulator, sensory response, strength, swimming.
School and enhancement of self-expression values
Authors: Kleindienst Petra
Published: January 2018

Schools as agents of political socialisation are important in the context of building democratic political culture. Hence, it is relevant to research which citizen orientations indicate a well-functioning and stable democracy. Recent studies have revealed that self-expression values have considerable impact on the existence and functioning of democracy. Based on the theoretical examination of self-expression values, the aim of this paper is to demonstrate that self-expression values reflect human dignity. The analysis is substantial since the concept of human dignity is considered a foundation of democratic political culture. Thereby, schools should put a larger emphasis on strengthening human dignity, which is reflected by values that drive democratic performance. Keywords: School, education, political socialisation, values, democracy, self-expression, human dignity, political culture.
Teachersâ€™ knowledge and attitude toward children with epilepsy
Authors: Snopek Petr
Published: January 2018

Epilepsy is a rather common disease in children and also in adults. It is defined as a primary chronic brain disease manifested by repetitive nerve seizures of different character and course. Because of this diversity, epilepsy has completely different effects on childrenâ€™s life and adults as well. Purpose of Study: The purpose of conducting research was to investigate views and experience of pre-school and primary school teachers with integration and education of children with epilepsy. Methods: The investigation was conducted using mixed method research with application of questionnaire and interview. Findings and Results: Data from the analysis imply that most teachers knew what epilepsy is, what the disease course is like and what potential problems with education of children with this condition are. The prevailing attitudes of teachers towards inclusion of children with this disease were positive; however concerns and experience with certain problems related to their integration into a group of other children were noticeable. Teachersâ€™ attitudes are very much correlated with their knowledge. Our conclusion is that knowledge of teachers in the field of chronic diseases of children requires improvement. Therefore, focus on education not only about epilepsy but also about other chronic diseases during teacher preparation is required. Keywords: Epilepsy, teacher, school.
Features of musical enlightenment in Russia in the second half of the twentieth century
Authors: Samigullina Rufina Ildarovna
Published: January 2018

Musical enlightenment is an actual problem of modern education. It involves dissemination of knowledges among the audience, the development of artistic needs, interest in music. By the second part of the 20th century, Russia has accumulated a wealth of experience of musical enlightenment activities. The Russian experience in the training of musicians has become an example for other countries, the concept of mass musical education developed by Kabalevsky, is the basis of many contemporary programs in music, various forms of musical education (people's universities, television & radio concerts, competitions, festivals and lectures) are widespread and practiced at the present time. The study used theoretical methods: analysis of the training programs, pedagogical literature, regulatory documents, the activities of educational institutions, musical enlightenment organizations, and systematization of the repertoire of musical collectives. Keywords: Musical education, mass culture, musical enlightenment, musical enlightenment organizations.
The Relationship between Leadership Styles and Innovation
Authors: San Dilara , Bayraktar Osman
Published: January 2018

Aim of this research is to investigate the relationship between intentional leadership styles and innovation. Research, was held in Istanbul Sisli, at the one of Turkey's largest logistics company. A total of 7000 people, including 1200 mid-level executives and 100 senior executives, are in operation. The survey was conducted with the participation of 100 senior managers. Working with this content is a case study. As a result of analysis of research data; it was found that there was a significant positive relationship between the general leadership scale and the autocracy, democracy, humanism, bureaucracy and charismatic subordinate to it. Another meaningful relationship was found between leadership scale sub-dimensions and autocracy and innovation scale. A statistically significant difference was not found between the variables except this.
Recent Advances in Antabuse (Disulfiram): The Importance of its Metal-binding Ability to its Anticancer Activity
Authors: Viola-Rhenals Maricela , Patel Kush R. , Jaimes-Santamaria Laura , Wu Guojun , Liu Jinbao , Dou Q. Ping
Published: January 2018

Background:

Considerable evidence demonstrates the importance of dithiocarbamates
especially disulfiram as anticancer drugs. However there are no systematic reviews
outlining how their metal-binding ability is related to their anticancer activity. This
review aims to summarize chemical features and metal-binding activity of disulfiram and
its metabolite DEDTC, and discuss different mechanisms of action of disulfiram and their
contributions to the drug's anticancer activity.

Methods:

We undertook a disulfiram-related search on bibliographic databases of peerreviewed
research literature, including many historic papers and in vitro, in vivo, preclinical
and clinical studies. The selected papers were carefully reviewed and summarized.

Results:

More than five hundreds of papers were obtained in the initial search and one
hundred eighteen (118) papers were included in the review, most of which deal with
chemical and biological aspects of Disulfiram and the relationship of its chemical and
biological properties. Eighty one (81) papers outline biological aspects of dithiocarbamates,
and fifty seven (57) papers report biological activity of Disulfiram as an inhibitor
of proteasomes or inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase enzymes, interaction with other
anticancer drugs, or mechanism of action related to reactive oxygen species. Other papers
reviewed focus on chemical aspects of dithiocarbamates.

Conclusion:

This review confirms the importance of chemical features of compounds
such as Disulfiram to their biological activities, and supports repurposing DSF as a potential
anticancer agent.
Overview on Anticancer Drug Design and Development
Authors: Olgen Sureyya
Published: January 2018

Background:

Many impediments of current anti-cancer therapies have urged scientists
to discover new agents. As a result of growing spectrums of new targets and strategies
and recent biological and biotechnological progresses, many anti-cancer agents such as
monoclonal antibodies, small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors and epigenetic drugs have
been reached to clinical trials.

Objectives:

This review helps to understand the rationale for the development of inhibitors
against major targets such as cell growth, proliferation, survival, angiogenesis and recent targets
such as proteasome, heat shock proteins, and epigenetics.

Methods:

Recent approaches of the target-based anti-cancer drug developments were highlighted
to giving some examples from approved agents. Many factors, such as metabolic
change, hypoxia, cancer precursors and cancer resistant cells, and their effect on drug resistance
mechanisms were discussed. The impacts of advanced computational techniques to
identify targets of cancer and designing more selective inhibitors were explained.

Results:

Contributions of recent techniques such as a network analysis, the precise modes of
action and computational methodologies especially simulation of bio-molecular processes to
clarify targets, mechanism actions and reasons of lack of efficacy of anti-cancer drugs have
been explained. The relationship between the several mechanisms and molecular design
strategies has been discussed.

Conclusion:

This review provides an overview of important targets and design strategies of
anti-cancer drugs, advantages and disadvantages of these methods and evaluation of some
currently used anticancer targets in clinical studies.
Efficacy of Aloe vera/ Plantago Major Gel in Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Najafian Younes , Khorasani Zahra M. , Najafi Mona N. , Hamedi Shokouh S. , Mahjour Marjan , Feyzabadi Zohre
Published: January 2018

Background:

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is one of the most common complications of diabetic patients. Mostly, non-healing DFU leads to infection, gangrene, amputation and even death. High costs and poor healing of the wounds need a new treatment such as alternative medicine. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Aloe vera/ Plantago major gel (Plantavera gel) in healing of DFU

Methods:

Forty patients with DFU enrolled in a double-blind randomized clinical trial. The patients who were randomly assigned into the intervention group (n = 20), received topical Plantavera gel in addition to the routine cares, whereas the patients in the control group (n = 20), received topical Placebo gel in addition to the routine cares. Intervention was done twice a day for 4 weeks in the both groups. Photography and an evaluation of DFU healing were conducted by a checklist and then were scored at baseline and at the end of each week. The collected data was analyzed by SPSS software.

Results:

At the end of the study, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of total ulcer score (P<0.001) and Plantavera gel significantly reduced the ulcer surface comparing with the control group (P=0.039). However, there was not a significant difference between the two groups (P=0.263) in terms of the ulcer depth. During this study, no side effect was observed for Plantavera gel in the intervention group.

Conclusion:

Topical Plantavera gel seems to be an effective, cheap and safe treatment. Of course, further studies are required to confirm the properties of the wound healing of this gel.