bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Could ratio of hemoglobin to red cell distribution width and ratio of absolute lymphocyte count to absolute monocyte count be a prognostic tool in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients?
Authors: Baysal Mehmet , Demirci Ufuk , Bas Volkan , Gulsaran Sedanur Karaman , Umit Elif , Kirkizlar Hakkı Onur , Baysal Serap , Demir Ahmet Muzaffer 
Published: July 2020

AbstractIntroductionHemoglobin/red cell distribution width (RDW) ratio (HRR) and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) are two novel bio-markers associated with overall survival (OS) and prognosis in several types of cancers. The aim of this study is to investigate the value of HRR and LMR in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) patients.MethodsA total of 180 patients were included in this study. Patients diagnosed with MM between May 2013 and May 2019 at a single center were evaluated. HRR was calculated by dividing hemoglobin to RDW, both measured from the same sample. LMR was calculated by dividing absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) to absolute monocyte count (AMC).ResultsThe cutoff value for HRR was taken as 0.61, and the cutoff value for LMR was taken as 3.28. Patients were divided into low HRR, high HRR, low LMR, and high LMR groups. OS of the patients with low HRR was found lower compared with high HRR (36.7 months for low HRR and 53.2 months for high HRR, p < 0.001). Also, OS was found lower in the low LMR group (39.4 months for low LMR and 51.7 months for high LMR, p = 0.016). On multivariate analysis, low HRR and low LMR were predictive factors of OS (hazard ratio (HR) 2.08, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.31–3.03, and p = 0.002 for low HRR; HR 1.47, 95% CI 0.92–2.29, and p = 0.010 for low LMR).ConclusionCombining both HRR and LMR could be a prognostic biomarker and it reflects the status of the immune system in newly diagnosed MM patients.
Variations in the bathymetry and bottom morphology of the Izu-Bonin Trench modelled by GMT
Authors: Lemenkova Polina 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Cartographic visualisation is a central concept in geoinformatics, and Generic Mapping Tools (GMT) functionality provides a variety of modules for effective mapping. However, due to its specific scripting approach, there is not enough reported experience of GMT mapping, comparing to traditional GIS. This contribution introduces steps that can be taken to perform cartographic mapping and modelling using GMT. Geographically, this paper investigates the Izu-Bonin Trench in the Pacific Ocean. The aim was to compare its geomorphology in two segments, and each was modelled by a series of profiles. The comparative analysis shows that the southern segment is deeper and is a more precisely V-shaped form with a steeper gradient slope. The northern part has an asymmetric slope with submarine terraces to the west and a straight shape to the east. The northern profile is based on 407 samples (13.5%) at depths of −5,600 to −5,800 m, followed by 304 samples at −5,800 to −6,000 m (10%). The southern histogram has a bimodal distribution with two peaks: 523 samples (20%) with depths of −5,800 to −6,000 m. The second peak (10%) is on the Bonin Ridge. The GMT proved to be an effective instrument for marine geological mapping, 3D and 2D modelling, statistical analysis and graphical plotting.
Revision of the Genus Cetrelia (Lichenised Ascomycota) in Latvia
Authors: Degtjarenko Polina , Moisejevs Rolands 
Published: July 2020

AbstractAll available specimens (98) of the genus Cetrelia from Latvia (Northern Europe) in the Herbaria DAU and RIG were revised. Cetrelia cetrarioides, C. olivetorum and C. monachorum were confirmed to occur in the country. The last taxon is new to Latvia. Distribution maps and habitat preferences of all three species in Latvia were presented, and their conservation status was discussed.
What determines foreign direct investment in Russia?
Authors: Gurshev Oleg 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
This article focuses on the determinants of inward foreign direct investment (FDI) in Russia. The article briefly describes the historical context of foreign investment policymaking in Russia since the beginning of the economic transition to an open market economy after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. When compared to other developing countries, Russia's FDI stocks continue to lag despite a set of proactive measures undertaken by the national government. Following the literature review, the most commonly cited determinants explaining inward FDI in Russia include market size, labour productivity, trade and investment barriers, domestic exchange rate, rule of law and institutional framework.
This article aims to contribute empirically to the study of determinants of inward FDI in Russia.
This article uses the Pseudo-Poisson Maximum Likelihood (PPML) estimation technique, the robustness of the PPML estimation is then verified using a standard autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model with the Durbin–Watson autocorrelation test.
Our benchmark results suggest the efficiency-seeking motive of FDI over a market seeking and horizontal motive as a main reason for inward FDI in Russia. The ARIMA regression indicates the absence of statistical significance of economic openness and variables of labour productivity. Overall, the market size and tax rate variables have the most positive effects on the inward FDI, while barriers to trade and sanctions have the most negative effects. The results confirm that for transitional economies, integration into the world economy, proactive local development and tax cuts for outside investors remain to be critical when it comes to attracting FDI.
Quality Assurance in Multicultural University - People’s Friendship University of Russia
Authors: Spulber Diana 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
In a knowledge-based economy, higher education becomes the most important factor of national competitiveness. It is in the Universities that the most high-performance human capital is formed, knowledge and innovation are produced. Therefore, the last decades are characterized by the growth of global competition in the field of higher education educations. And for the purpose the President of Russian Federation in his plan for 2024 (presidential Decree No. 204 of May 7th, 2018) has been underlined the global goals and objectives set for the spheres of education and science for the next five years. Among them, in particular, is ensuring the competitiveness of Russian education at the world level and Russia’s entry into the top five countries in the world in research. Another purpose indicated for education is enrolment of foreigner’s students. The Peculiarity of PFUR is that in this University is mainly foreign students
Peoples ‘ Friendship University of Russia is a unique University, a major international-oriented educational and research institution. In the walls of the Peoples ‘ Friendship University of Russia annually are trained citizens from 152 countries.
The article will analyse the System of HEI Quality Assurance in Russia and development in the last years, will be analysed the interview data of VTSIOM in field of Quality of Russian Education. The Quality Assurance System at the PFUR will be illustrated starting from Boards, Procedures and arriving to indicators and how these indicators have been achieved.
Fifty years of Methodist–Roman Catholic dialogue
Authors: Chapman David M. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
This article examines the origins and development of bilateral theological dialogue between Methodists and Roman Catholics at a world level since it commenced in 1967 as a result of the Second Vatican Council. In taking stock of the dialogue, consideration is given to what has been achieved in successive phases during the past fifty years. A number of theological issues are identified as requiring further dialogue. The article concludes by outlining the present agenda of the international Methodist–Roman Catholic dialogue commission and briefly considering the future prospects for theological dialogue at a world level in the context of contemporary ecumenism.
Effects of Bacterial Cell-Free Supernatant on Nutritional Parameters of Apis Mellifera and Their Toxicity Against Varroa Destructor
Authors: De Piano Fiorella G. , Maggi Matias D. , Meroi Arceitto Facundo R. , Audisio Marcela C. , Eguaras Martín , Ruffinengo Sergio R. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Apis mellifera L. is an essential pollinator that is currently being affected by several stressors that disturb their ecological function and produce colony losses. Colonies are being seriously affected by the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor. The relationship between stressors and bee symbionts is being studied in order to enhance bee health. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of cell-free supernatants (CFSs) produced by Lactobacillus johnsonii AJ5, Enterococcus faecium SM21 and Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis Mori2 on A. mellifera nutritional parameters and their toxicity against V. destructor. Toxicity and survival bioassays were conducted on adult bees with different concentrations of CFSs. Nutritional parameters such as soluble proteins and fat bodies in abdomens were measured. Varroa destructor toxicity was analyzed by a contact exposure method and via bee hemolymph. At low concentrations, two of CFSs tends to enhance bee survival. Remarkably fat bodies maintained their levels with all CFS concentrations in the abdomens, and soluble protein increased at a high concentration of two CFSs. Toxicity against V. destructor was observed only via hemolymph, and results were in agreement with the treatment that produced an increase in bee proteins. Finally, CFS produced by L. johnsonii AJ5 could be a promising natural alternative for strengthening bee health.
Integration of NDVI Imagery and Crop Coverage Registration System for Apiary Schedule
Authors: Sari Fatih , Kandemir İrfan , Ceylan Durmuş A. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Beekeepers need to establish migratory apiaries to benefit from pollen and nectar source plants as in order to increase honey yield. Thus, following the flowering seasons of honey source plants has vital importance when deciding the route of migration. In this study, MODIS imagery was used to generate weekly NDVI data between 1st April to 31st August 2018, when beekeeping activities start and end in the study area. Although MODIS images have high temporal resolution, low spatial resolution (250 meters) makes them insufficient when deciding the crop types and plants. While detecting plants in natural plant areas requires high spatial resolution NDVI, Crop Coverage Registration System (CCRS) parcel-based crop coverage records can enrich the NDVI data without increasing spatial resolution in agricultural lands. Thus, the CCRS data were integrated with NDVI images for migratory beekeeping in agricultural areas as an innovation. To generate both high temporal and spatial resolution, NDVI and CCRS data were integrated together with a beekeeping suitability map to generate the apiary schedule. The results were verified with 176 existing apiary locations and production dates retrieved from field studies which revealed the existence of three seasons in the study area as early and late apiaries (in natural plant areas) and apiaries in agricultural lands. Accuracy analysis showed that 82% of the apiaries intersected with suitable locations and that apiaries in agricultural areas were detected five days earlier than in field studies and obtained more accurately than natural plant apiaries.
Early Acute Graft Rejection in a Heart Transplanted Child with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Muntean Iolanda , Barmou Asmaa Carla , Sin Anca Ileana , Suciu Horatiu , Togănel Rodica 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the most common type of cardiomyopathy in children. Heart transplantation is considered standard therapy in dilated cardiomyopathy with end-stage heart failure. We present a case of a 15-year-old patient diagnosed with DCM in the neonatal period, who underwent heart transplantation for end-stage heart failure. Despite the use of induction therapy, the endomyocardial biopsy performed at two weeks post-transplant revealed mixed moderate cellular (2R) and humoral (pAMR2) allograft rejection. Aggressive rejection treatment was initiated with good outcome. Besides endomyocardial biopsy, advanced echocardiography can also be a valuable noninvasive tool for rejection assessment.
Influencers’ Engagement in a Brand Communication: Latvia and Cyprus Cases
Authors: Antoniades George , Briede Dace , Kontina Marta , Milevica Inga , Stige-Skuskovnika Vita 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Research purpose. Social networks have become an integral part of life, making social media one of the most significant advertising platforms, which, according to many experts and scientists, is one of the most effective brand communication techniques. According to Google’s data (Think with Google, 2018), before the purchase, shoppers like to address real people, which they think could be trusted. Branding with influencers is a new way of promoting products and services. It has also recently been a much sought research topic both in terms of studying the brand communication and the influencer phenomenon. This comparative study explores the involvement of influencers in brand communication. The aim of the research is to analyse the involvement of Latvian and Cypriot influencers in brand communication, its features in theoretical and practical aspects.

Design/Methodology/Approach. The research methods used were content analysis of Latvian and Cypriot influencer accounts, comparative analysis, literature analysis and graphical method.

Findings. Within the theoretical framework of the study, a review of literature has been carried out on influencers’ involvement in brand communication, with particular focus on research in Cyprus and Latvia, as well as influencer typologies, communication features and current aspects of the research. The practical part of the research explores the demographic portrait of the Cypriot and Latvian influencers, the most important features of brand communication, paying particular attention to the principles of choosing influencers’ social networking platforms and brand communication labels in their communication – hashtags (#Reklāma, #Ad, #Sadarbība, #Paidpartnership, #Apmaksātasadarbība), as well as tendencies and regularities in their use or non-use.

Originality/Value/Practical implications. The results of the study can be used by brand communication researchers, as well as by marketing and public relations professionals, to identify the key features of communication of influencers, including in comparative terms, and to select optimal tactics for collaboration with influencers.
How to Improve Communication within an Organization? The Relationship between Cultural Intelligence and Language Competence
Authors: Jurásek Miroslav , Potocký Tomislav 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Objective: This article deals with the effective functioning of an organization in the international context. It focuses on the two key aspects of the communication in this respects: cultural intelligence (CQ), the capacity to operate successfully in the multicultural setting, and the quality of internal communication; it is investigated whether CQ (and its components: metacognitive, cognitive, motivational and behavioural) are rather related to the number of foreign languages or the language proficiency a person (or an employee) knows (has).

Methodology: The sample of 132 undergraduate students of the English and Czech study programs at one private business university in the Czech Republic was used. The Spearman correlation coefficient, Chi–Square test for independence and the one–way ANOVA test (all of them conducted in the statistical program IBM SPSS Statistics 21) are calculated in the paper.

Findings: CQ depends on the quality (the level of proficiency) rather than the quantity (the number) of foreign language skills. This conclusion applies regardless of gender: our data did not confirm that language skills were gender-dependent.

Value Added: Recently a very fashionable cultural intelligence (CQ) construct has been explored in relation to a variety of variables and outputs. Nevertheless, insufficient attention has been given to the relationship between cultural intelligence and language competence so far; moreover, the research has brought contradictory results up to now. This study fills the actual knowledge gap.

Recommendations: It is shown that in terms of the effective functioning in a culturally unknown environment and with a restricted time to learn foreign languages, it is preferable to develop continuously one´s skills in lingua franca than parallel and more superficial studies of several languages.
Quality of Family Life and Workplace Deviant Behaviour with Perceived Competence as a Mediator among University Staff
Authors: Fagbenro Dare A. , Olasupo Mathew O. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Several studies have found a variety of factors as antecedents of deviant behaviour but the role of family life on workplace deviant behaviour, as well as the mediating role of perceived competence in the quality of family life-deviant behaviour relationship, have received little study. This study examines the mediating effect of perceived competence on the relationship between the quality of family life and work-deviant behaviour. The study adopted the wellness model and self-determination theory as theoretical standpoints. Three hundred and eight-four (384) university staff in Nigeria participated in the study. Results revealed that there was a significant negative relationship between the quality of family life and workplace deviant behaviour. The result of the hierarchical multiple regression also revealed that perceived competence mediates the link between the quality of family life and workplace deviant behaviour. These findings suggest that psychologists should design training programmes aimed at improving the sense of competence and quality of family life, which invariably will reduce workplace deviant behaviour.
Seasonal variation of radon and CO2 in the Važecká Cave, Slovakia
Authors: Smetanová Iveta , Holý Karol , Luhová Ľubica , Csicsay Kristian , Haviarová Dagmar , Kunáková Lucia 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The continuous monitoring of 222Rn activity concentration, CO2 concentration, and microclimatologic parameters (internal air temperature and relative humidity) in the Važecká Cave (Northern Slovakia) is being carried out at three monitoring stations, namely, Gallery, Lake Hall, and Entrance Hall. Radon activity concentration and CO2 concentration exhibited a clear annual variation. The daily average of radon concentration ranged 1300–27 700 Bq/m3 at the Lake Hall station and 3600–42 200 Bq/m3 at the Gallery station. Radon reached its maximum in the summer months, from June to September. The annual maximum of CO2 concentration is registered approximately one month later than radon maximum. The annual variation of radon and CO2 is controlled by the seasonal change of ventilation regime associated with the seasonal variation of the difference between the temperature measured inside the cave and the atmospheric temperature.
Heterologous Expression and Purification of the Antimicrobial Peptide Buforin II
Authors: Ferenc-András Boda , Zoltán-István Szabó , Erika Szőcs , Pál Salamon , Csongor Orbán , Edit Székely 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are natural substances that have played a role in the development of the adaptive immune system, and are currently involved in the prevention of infections, through their direct antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. While the amino acid composition and spatial structure vary, most antibacterial peptides have a positive surface charge, which allows them to bind to the negative bacterial membranes. Buforin II is a widely studied antimicrobial peptide first obtained through the structural modification of buforin I, a peptide isolated from Bufo gargarizans. The peptide showed significant antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The mechanism of action of buforin II differs from that of other antimicrobial peptides, as it binds directly to bacterial DNA and RNA. The aim of our study was to obtain recombinant buforin II with a ubiquitin fusion partner, through heterologous expression in Escherichia coli Rosetta™ (DE3)pLysS cells, using a laboratory scale bioreactor. The incubation of expression host cells in a bioreactor allowed the constant monitoring and control of the process parameters, leading to high biomass levels and an increased production rate of the peptide. The parameters used during incubation were: 37°C, pH=6.9 and dissolved oxygen level above 40%. Purification of the recombinant protein was accomplished by affinity chromatography using a Ni-chelate solid phase to which the 10xHistag of our construct showed affinity. Method optimisation consisted in the use of gradient and linear elution, of which the latter was found to be more effective. Digestion of the fusion partner from the target peptide was performed with ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase enzyme. The expression and purification protocols developed in our experiment allow the production of a significant amount of buforin II, allowing its use for further research. Furthermore, the presented methods could be suitable for industrial production of the recombinant peptide..
Local Development Initiatives as Promoters of Social Innovation: Evidence from Two European Rural Regions
Authors: Novikova Marina , de Fátima Ferreiro Maria , Stryjakiewicz Tadeusz 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Social innovation entered the academic discourse several decades ago and has since been seen as a way of tackling existing problems in various contexts. Although an extensive body of research has been conducted into the role of social innovation in urban context, there is still a gap when it comes to studying the role of social innovation in the development of rural areas. In this paper, an attempt is made to look at the role of Local Action Groups (LAGs) and Local Development Associations (LDAs) as promoters of social innovation in rural areas in Austria and Portugal, aiming to understand the role of such organisations and the challenges faced by the latter in promoting social innovation.
Percutaneous image guided electrochemotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: technological advancement
Authors: Djokic Mihajlo , Dezman Rok , Cemazar Maja , Stabuc Miha , Petric Miha , Smid Lojze M. , Jansa Rado , Plesnik Bostjan , Bosnjak Masa , Tratar Ursa Lampreht , Trotovsek Blaz , Kos Bor , Miklavcic Damijan , Sersa Gregor , Popovic Peter 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Background
Electrochemotherapy is an effective treatment of colorectal liver metastases and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) during open surgery. The minimally invasive percutaneous approach of electrochemotherapy has already been performed but not on HCC. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of electrochemotherapy with percutaneous approach on HCC.

Patient and methods
The patient had undergone the transarterial chemoembolization and microwave ablation of multifocal HCC in segments III, V and VI. In follow-up a new lesion was identified in segment III, and recognized by multidisciplinary team to be suitable for minimally invasive percutaneous electrochemotherapy. The treatment was performed with long needle electrodes inserted by the aid of image guidance.

Results
The insertion of electrodes was feasible, and the treatment proved safe and effective, as demonstrated by control magnetic resonance imaging.

Conclusions
Minimally invasive, image guided percutaneous electrochemotherapy is feasible, safe and effective in treatment of HCC.