bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous Manifestations of Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Chiriac Anca , Trandafir Laura , Podoleanu Cristian , Stolnicu Simona 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive affliction triggered by genetic mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator. The lung and pancreas are the most frequently affected organs in cystic fibrosis, cutaneous involvement is undervalued and underdiag-nosed. Skin lesions observed in patients diagnosed with cystic fibrosis are not well known and can create confusions with other dermatological diseases. The diagnosis of cutaneous lesions as signs of cystic fibrosis by pediatricians or dermatologists, despite their overlapping with different nutritional deficiencies, would allow earlier diagnosis and proper treatment and could improve quality of life and outcomes.
Reduction of Intra-abdominal Hypertension Is Associated with Increase of Cardiac Output in Critically Ill Patients Undergoing Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Puiac Claudiu , Benedek Theodora , Puscasiu Lucian , Rat Nora , Almasy Emoke , Szederjesi Janos 
Published: December 2018

Abstract

Objective: To demonstrate the relationship between intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and cardiac output (CO) in mechanically ventilated (MV), critically ill patients.

Material and methods: This was a single-center, prospective study performed between January and April 2016, on 30 mechanically ventilated patients (mean age 67.3 ± 11.9 years), admitted in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Emergency County Hospital of Tîrgu Mureș, Romania, who underwent measurements of intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). Patients were divided into two groups: group 1 – IAP <12 mmHg (n = 21) and group 2 – IAP >12 mmHg (n = 9). In 23 patients who survived at least 3 days post inclusion, the variation of CO and IAP between baseline and day 3 was calculated, in order to assess the variation of IAP in relation to the hemodynamic status.

Results: IAP was 8.52 ± 1.59 mmHg in group 1 and 19.88 ± 8.05 mmHg in group 2 (p <0.0001). CO was significantly higher in group 1 than in the group with IAH: 6.96 ± 2.07 mmHg (95% CI 6.01–7.9) vs. 4.57 ± 1.23 mmHg (95% CI 3.62–5.52) (p = 0.003). Linear regression demonstrated an inverse correlation between CO and IAP (r = 0.48, p = 0.007). Serial measurements of CO and IAP proved that whenever accomplished, the decrease of IAP was associated with a significant increase in CO (p = 0.02).

Conclusions: CO is significantly correlated with IAP in mechanically ventilated patients, and IAH reduction is associated with increase of CO in these critically ill cases.
Impact of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension on Left Ventricular Function – a Comparative Study between Scleroderma and Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Cucuruzac Roxana , Marton Emese , Hodas Roxana , Blendea Ciprian , Pirvu Mirela , Benedek Annabella , Benedek Theodora 
Published: December 2018

Abstract

Background: The impact of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) on left ventricular performance in patients with scleroderma is still unknown. This study aims to perform a comparative echocardiographic analysis of left ventricular function between two different etiological varieties of PAH, namely PAH caused by systemic sclerosis as a representative of systemic inflammatory diseases and PAH caused by myocardial ischemia.

Material and method: We conducted a prospective observational study on 82 patients, of which 36 were with documented PAH, with the systolic pressure in the pulmonary artery above 35 mmHg, and 46 were patients with normal pulmonary artery pressure. The study population was divided into two groups, based on the etiology of PAH: group 1 included patients diagnosed with scleroderma (n = 48); group 2 included patients with coronary artery disease (n = 35). Patients from each group were divided into two subgroups based on the diagnosis of PAH: subgroup 1A – subjects with scleroderma and associated PAH (n = 20); subgroup 1B – subjects with scleroderma without PAH (n = 28); subgroup 2A – ischemic patients with associated PAH (n = 16); and subgroup 2B – patients with ischemic disease without PAH (n = 19).

Results: A significant difference between LVEF values in patients with PAH versus those without PAH in the ischemic group (p = 0.023) was recorded. Compared to scleroderma subjects, ischemic patients presented significantly lower values of LVEF in both PAH and non-PAH subgroups (p <0.0001 and p <0.0001, respectively). Linear regression analysis between sPAP and LVEF revealed a significant negative correlation only for the ischemia group (r = −0.52, p = 0.001) and the scleroderma 2B subgroup (r = −0.51, p = 0.04). Tissue Doppler analysis of left ventricular function revealed a significant impact of PAH on left ventricular diastolic performance in the ischemic group.

Conclusions: Compared to patients with coronary artery disease, those with scleroderma present a less pronounced deterioration of LVEF in response to pulmonary arterial hypertension.
CTA Assessment of Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque Evolution after BVS Implantation – a Follow-up Study
Authors: Ferenț Ioan , Mester András , Chițu Monica , Benedek Annabella , Rațiu Mihaela , Hodas Roxana , Benedek Imre 
Published: December 2018

Abstract

Background: Computed tomography angiography (CTA) occupies an important place in the evaluation of coronary atherosclerotic lesions, both before and after the implantation of bioresorbable stents (BVS), providing an accurate assessment of the treated lesions.

Aim of the study: This study aims the prospective follow-up of atherosclerotic plaques electively treated with BVS implantation via CTA evaluation in terms of morphological and virtual histology aspects.

Material and methods: This is a prospective observational study which enrolled 30 patients electively treated with BVS implantation, in whom CTA was performed after PTCA in order to assess the morphological and virtual histology aspects of coronary plaques. In order to evaluate the impact determined by pre- and post-implantation procedures, statistical analysis was performed among 6 subgroups.

Results: After BVS implantation, a significant reduction was observed in terms of stenosis % (61.63 ± 12.63% in subgroup 1A vs. 24.41 ± 12.48% in subgroup 1B, p <0.0001) and eccentricity index (0.46 ± 0.24 in subgroup 1A vs. 0.43 ± 0.24 in subgroup 1B, p <0.0001). In terms of plaque components, there were significant differences with regard to lipid volume and lipid % (20.07 ± 15.67 mm3 in subgroup 1A vs. 11.05 ± 10.83 mm3 in subgroup 1B, p = 0.01), which presented a significant reduction after BVS implantation. The calcium score evaluated locally (82.97 ± 107.5 in subgroup 1A vs. 96.54 ± 85.73 in subgroup 1B, p = 0.25) and on the target coronary artery (148.2 ± 222.3 in subgroup 1A vs. 206.6 ± 224.0 in subgroup 1B, p = 0.10), as well as the total calcium score (377.6 ± 459.5 in subgroup 1A vs. 529.5 ± 512.9 in subgroup 1B, p = 0.32), presented no significant differences when compared with and without post-dilatation lesions. As far as CT vulnerability markers are concerned, the study groups presented significant differences only in terms of spotty calcifications (66.66% in subgroup 1A vs. 79.16% in subgroup 1B, p = 0.05) and low attenuation (37.5% in subgroup 1A vs. 20.83% in subgroup 1B, p = 0.01).

Conclusions: Following the analysis of coronary artery plaques after the implantation of BVS, significant changes were noted both in the morphology of the atherosclerotic plaques treated with these devices and in the lumen and coronary wall.
Buckling Analysis of Orthotropic Thick Cylindrical Shells Considering Geometrical Imperfection Using Differential Quadrature Method (DQM)
Authors: Maleki A. , Ahmadi A. 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
This paper presented a three dimensional analysis for the buckling behavior of an imperfect orthotropic thick cylindrical shells under pure axial or external pressure loading. Critical loads are computed for different imperfection parameter. Both ends of the shell have simply supported conditions. Governing differential equations are driven based on the second Piola–Kirchhoff stress tensor and are reduced to a homogenous linear system of equations using differential quadrature method. Buckling loads reduction factor is computed for different imperfection parameters and geometrical properties of orthotropic shells. The sensitivity is established through tables of buckling load reduction factors versus imperfection amplitude. It is shown that imperfections have higher effects on the buckling load of thin shells than thick ones. Results show that the presented method is very accurate and can capture the various geometrical imperfections observed during the manufacturing process or transportation.
Conflict, Confrontation, and War Reflected in Mass Media: Semantic Wars, their Victors and Victims
Authors: Panasenko Nataliya , Greguš Ľuboš , Zabuzhanska Inna 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
War presented in mass media as a piece of hard news has three spaces: military, economic, and informational. From a linguistic point of view, conflict has two constituents: CONFLICT-STATE and CONFLICT-ACTION. The variety of conflict is confrontation, which includes physical collision, armed opposition, verbal collision, collision of outlooks and interests. Each conflict or confrontation has a cognitive script, on which confrontational substrategies are being built.
Efficiency Analysis of Restaurants in a Small Economy after the Implementation of Fiscal Cash Registers: The Case of Slovenia
Authors: Kukanja Marko , Planinc Tanja 
Published: December 2018

Abstract

Background and purpose: The aim is to analyse the efficiency of small and medium-sized (SMEs) restaurant enterprises in Slovenia after the government’s implementation of fiscal cash registers in January 2016. Strict financial supervision and the introduction of fiscal cash registers resulted in increased officially registered sales revenues, higher taxes, and more available and reliable financial data. No previous study has analysed restaurants’ efficiency in the country, as, due to fiscal malpractice, accounting data have not provided a reliable source for accurate efficiency evaluation.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Efficiency was assessed using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), based on secondary-financial data provided by the national tax authorities. Data were gathered from 142 independently run restaurant SMEs in 2017.

Results: The average efficiency score of Slovene restaurant SMEs is 85%, which indicates that, on average, restaurants have to increase their efficiency level by 15% in order to improve their efficiency according to the most efficient (best-performing) units under comparison. Our research results indicate a relatively successful and comparable level of efficiency performance in comparison to those found in previous international studies. The results also reveal that the patterns of conducting business operations in terms of efficient management are relatively similar across the restaurant sector. Surprisingly, in terms of determining the influence of different groups of operational variables on restaurants’ efficiency performance, the research results indicate that only operational financial variables (costs of goods sold, labour costs, and depreciation) influence efficiency performance, while managers’ demographic characteristics (gender, age, education, years of experience) and restaurants’ physical characteristics (size, number of competitors, location) have no statistically significant influence on restaurants’ efficiency in achieving net sales revenues.

Conclusion: Secondary-financial data represent a valuable source of information for restaurant companies’ efficiency analysis. The use of selected variables enables an internationally comparable benchmarking process and facilitates the improvement of restaurants’ efficiency performance. It is suggested that future research include longitudinal data and focus on the systematic analysis of other variables (e.g., managers’ psychographic characteristics) that might influence restaurants’ efficiency performance.
Resolving Companies in Crisis: Agile Crisis Project Management
Authors: Čelesnik Goran , Radujković Mladen , Vrečko Igor 
Published: December 2018

Abstract

Introduction and purpose: In practice, the existing models of tackling companies’ crises are still lacking effectiveness and efficiency. The agile crisis project management model (ACPM) is based on the crisis project management doctrines, which we upgraded with the principles and methodologies of agile project management. It was developed for the resolution of such crises.

Methods: Relying on scientific knowledge and in accordance with the defined research problem, we decided to use the qualitative research methods while using a method of highly structured interviews for data collection. A comparative case studies method was used for the comparative comparison of effectiveness and efficiency among the sample companies, which were divided into groups A and B. Companies in group A used the non-project approach, the traditional project, and/or the hybrid non-project–traditional project approach (CM approach) in implementing the planned measures and activities in the restructuring process and/or renovation; companies in group B used the agile project and/or the hybrid agile project–traditional project approach (ACPM approach).

Results: The studied companies facing crises used various implementation approaches for the planned measures and activities within the framework of the crisis solution. The companies using the ACPM approach (group B) completed their restructuring and/or renewal process more quickly and were more effective and efficient after the crisis than during the pre-crisis period. At the same time, their net sales growth was also higher than the growth of companies using the CM approach (group A).

Conclusion: The article demonstrates the results of the research, which studied the effectiveness and efficiency of resolving the sample companies’ crises. In accordance with the research results, we conclude that supplementing the crisis project management with an agile project approach when resolving company crises positively affects the efficiency and effectiveness of companies after the crisis.
IT Governance Mechanisms and Contingency Factors: Towards an Adaptive IT Governance Model
Authors: Levstek Aleš , Hovelja Tomaž , Pucihar Andreja 
Published: December 2018

Abstract

Background and Purpose: In this paper, we aim to propose a guideline for further research towards development of an adaptive strategic IT governance (ITG) model for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The use of IT has the potential to be the major driver for success, as well it provides an opportunity to achieve competitive advantage and support digital transformation. In order to achieve IT benefits, enterprises need an effective and successful ITG model, which follows and adapts to business needs. Available ITG models are too generic and do not differentiate for enterprises of different industry, size, maturity etc.

Methodology: In order to review existing ITG mechanisms, their definitions and identify contingency factors, we performed an extensive literature review (LR). For the initial set of databases, we used the list of journals, which are indexed in the Journal Citation Reports. We also used Web of Science to identify articles with the highest number of citations.

Results: This paper provides the most important definitions of ITG and proposes its comprehensive definition. Next to this, we introduce ITG mechanisms, which are crucial for the effective implementation and use of ITG. Lastly, we identify contingency factors that influence ITG implementation and its use.

Conclusion: Despite extensive research in ITG area, considerable work is still needed to improve understanding of ITG, its definition and mechanisms. Multiple efforts to develop methods for governing IT failed to achieve any significant adoption rate of ITG mechanisms. To enable ITG to become an integral part of Corporate Governance, further research needs to focus on the development of an adaptive strategic ITG model. In this paper, we propose a next step for more practical method for ITG implementation and its use.
To Show, But Not to Disclose. The Willingness of Polish Political Parties to Disclose Information On their Structures
Authors: Skrabacz Ewa 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Constituting the key element of a democratic system, political parties are among entities obliged by the Polish legislator to comply with the principle of disclosure by providing public information. The main objective of this paper is to determine the level of Polish political parties’ disclosure, understood here as their willingness to disclose information on their own structures. It seems that the practice of disclosing such basic organizational data may constitute a specific measure of Polish political parties’ respect for the idea of disclosure. The subject matter of the conducted research was particular parties’ sites in the Public Information Bulletin as well as their official websites. An attempt was made to acquire data concerning party structures by way of direct contact with particular parties’ organizational units – questionnaires were sent to both central and regional/district organizational units. In order to acquire a wider perspective, the research also included data provided by the Central Statistical Office concerning political parties’ organizational structures and election manifestos. The conducted analysis was summarized in the form of a ranking of the examined political parties based on a proposed political party disclosure index. This attempt to measure disclosure on the basis of data on internal structures provided by parties themselves is of a preliminary character which, nevertheless, makes it possible to capture the general properties of the phenomenon under analysis. Among the examined parties, it is PSL, SLD, and PO that, to an acceptable degree, follow the principle of disclosure in the analysed scope (indexes at the level of 60%-80% of the maximum value). Four other parties, i.e. N, Wolność, Razem, and Kukiz’15, are on the edge of the zone making it possible to regard their disclosure as sufficient (indexes at the level of around 50% of the maximum value). In the case of PiS, whose index does not reach 20% of the maximum value, it should be concluded that this party implements the principle of disclosure at a minimum level. The ranking did not show relationships between parties’ willingness towards providing information and their sizes or positions on the political scene (parliamentary parties vs. extra-parliamentary parties).
Trade Embargo as a Geopolitical Tool: A Case of Nepal-India Trade Relations
Authors: Chand Deepjyoti 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
As interdependence grows, economic issues are increasingly political in their nature and impact, and political issues are increasingly economic. The interdependence is acute in issues that relate to international trade, and especially in the case of landlocked countries. Nepal is one such land-locked country, being between India and China, whose economy depends on the trade relations with its neighbouring countries. Two-thirds of Nepalese trade depends on India. The article presents a summary of Nepal-India trade cooperation, primarily the Nepalese dependence in trade and transit route to India and its effects. It also presents an overview of the trade pattern between the two countries and focuses on the trade embargoes by India. The article analyses the reason behind the embargoes of 1969, 1989 and 2015 and how the situations have been resolved. The embargoes imposed by India on Nepal seem to be more political in nature and their impacts are both political and economic. The Indian embargoes in Nepal follow an objective of compliance, deterrence and subversion. By analysing India’s pursuance of trade embargoes against Nepal, the article reaffirms that landlocked nations such as Nepal are susceptible to manipulation by geopolitical threats since neighbouring countries adjust trade ties or use trade ties to fulfil their political, security and economic interests.
The Opposition to Communism in the Political Thought of The Exiled Democratic Socialist Adam Ciołkosz
Authors: Paszkiewicz Lilla Barbara 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
The Polish socialist movement has undergone various stages of development over more than 100 years of history. In the first half of the 20th century it was, to a large extent, identified with European Social Democracy. After the Second World War and the seizure of power in Poland by the communists, the socialist movement was replaced by a communist ideology that completely distorted the authentic democratic socialism and appropriated the values it represented. The unmasking of communist counterfeits was dealt with by the Polish émigré activist – Adam Ciołkosz, who as active politician and theoretician of socialism, showed a special activity in the contestation of communism. His views as an authentic Social Democrat had a significant impact on the political thought of the Polish socialist movement outside Poland. Ciołkosz, as an anti-Communist, represented such values as: respect for human rights and social justice, humanistic sensitivity, Christianity and above all socialism. At the same time, he promoted the need to fight communism and expose the criminal ideology. He pointed to the need to introduce a system of social justice (i.e. democratic socialism).
Clinical Usefulness of 99mTc-HYNIC-TOC and 131I-MIBG Scintigraphy in the Evaluation of Adrenal Tumors
Authors: Vukomanovic Vladimir , Matovic Milovan , Djukic Aleksandar , Ignjatovic Vesna , Djukic Svetlana , Vukomanovic Ivana Simic 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Disorders and morphological abnormalities affecting the adrenal gland, could lead to profound clinical consequences, owing to its biochemical structure-activity and morphological characteristics.
The recent focus on theranostic approach has led to a need for tumors characterization and early diagnosis at the molecular level. Many radiotracers have been developed with specific imaging characteristics for the adrenal tumors, by exploiting different physiological mechanisms of uptake and metabolism.
The aim of present study is to provide a prospective confirmation of 131I-MIBG and 99mTc-HYNIC-TOC scintigraphy, for the evaluation of patients with known or suspected tumors of the adrenal region.
The research is designed as a cross-sectional observational study of the clinical correlates and diagnostic accuracy of radionuclide-based imaging methods in relation to in vitro analysis, clinical manifestations and morphological characteristics of these tumors. Furthermore, the present study also evaluates the usefulness and the clinical impact of each radiopharmaceutical for the detection and management of tumors, and functional imaging modality as well.
Visual scintigraphic appearance of an increased focal tracer uptake in the suspected tumor site revealed that 99mTc-HYNIC-TOC is highly sensitive and reliable tumor-seeking radiotracer for adrenal tumors, but does not distinguish between adenoma and pheochromocytoma, and the existence of hormone secreting adrenocortical tumor cells. However, 131IMIBG scintigraphy is highly sensitive and specific method only in differentiating catecholamine-secreting adrenal tumors.
Clinical significance of this research is in the accurate localization of adrenal tumors, and is of paramount importance for an algorithmic diagnostic approach and management, and provide the rationale to different therapeutic possibilities.