bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Toward an evaluation model for transnational cooperation activities in rural areas: a case study within an EU LEADER project
Authors: De Luca Anna Irene , Iofrida Nathalie , Gulisano Giovanni , Strano Alfio 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Cooperation activities between Local Action Groups (LAGs) have been introduced into EU LEADER (Liaison Entre Actions de Développement de l’Économie Rurale) initiative to provide rural areas the opportunity to exchange experiences and best practices, as well as to realize common activities by pooling human and financial resources. The main purposes are to overcome isolation and add value to local development strategies. The benefits of cooperation are widely recognized but, undeniably, it can be also a difficult and time-consuming process. For this reason, evaluation is a necessary tool to measure the success of cooperation and to help actors address their strategies for the future. In this paper, an evaluation methodology is proposed and applied to an EU LEADER+ case study, the ‘Integrated Project for Rural Tourism: Environment and Qualified Hospitality’, a transnational cooperation experience led by LAG Aspromar, based in the province of Reggio Calabria, Southern Italy. Quantitative and qualitative data have been collected through the integration of three typical methods of social research: two techniques based on surveys, namely interviews with privileged actors, and a semi-structured questionnaire, and a technique based on non-survey data and the study of documents. Results can be useful to highlight pros and cons of the management of a cooperation project and to stimulate projects’ leaders on activating improvement processes.
Adventure Tourism Motivations: A push and pull factor approach
Authors: Giddy Julia K. 
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe increased growth and commercialization of adventure tourism led to a number of changes in the profile of the individuals who now engage in adventure activities. As a result, previous understandings of adventure tourism motivations may no longer be valid. This study seeks to investigate the influence of these changes by analyzing the motivations of tourists who have engaged in adventure tourism across a range of commercial adventure activities. This is done through data collected from participants in adventure tourism, throughout South Africa, using a push and pull factor approach to motivations. The results show the increasing influence of the experiences with nature in motivations, particularly in the context of pull factors. The role of risk and thrill in motivations, which has been emphasized in previous literature, is found to be relatively minimal among these respondents. Furthermore, adventure tourism experiences are found to be dynamic, with an increasing number of significant factors influencing decision-making. It also demonstrates notable differences in the motivations of participants, based on the type of activity in which they engage.
Dynamics of regional disparities in Slovakia in 2001 and 2011
Authors: Michálek Anton , Podolák Peter , Madajová Michala Sládeková 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
This paper is focused on the presentation of developmental tendencies of regional disparities in Slovakia in 2001 and 2011 from the point of view of selected and relevant socio-economic and demographic indicators. To test the divergence hypothesis of the regional disparities at a district level, these are evaluated by using multidimensional analysis of 14 indicators. The overall level and development of regional disparities are measured with the help of the methods of descriptive statistics and multi-criteria assessments (integrated index). The results confirm the hypothesis of divergence development as the basic tendency of regional development in Slovakia. The presented research has documented evident time shortening of significant changes in regions drifting towards divergent development. Rapid and, up to now, unprecedented changes (employment and wages growth, enterprise development, foreign investments increase, etc.), are evident and reflected in the majority of indicators – however, with different impacts on the regional level.
An analysis of the spatial distribution, influence and quality of urban green space – a case study of the Polish city of Tczew
Authors: Senetra Adam , Krzywnicka Iwona , Mielke Marcin 
Published: December 2018

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

Abstract

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abstract
In this review, I have presented several topics relevant to the present state and to the future state of the scientific field that I propose to call sequence biology (SB). In some pertinent publications, this field was called DNA linguistics. At the heart of SB lies a concept of a sequence code. In this review, I discussed three concepts: a concept of SB, a concept of encyclopaedia of genetic codes, and a concept of a corpus DNA linguistics.