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What helps people receiving inpatient treatment to recover from a suicidal crisis?
No full textVilmantė Gaudiešiūtė (2025). What helps people receiving inpatient treatment to recover from a suicidal crisis? Master's thesis. Vilnius: Vilnius University, p. 73. Attempted suicide is associated with a higher risk of reattempt and death by suicide. Although there are already various interventions aimed at preventing this, there is still a lack of data to provide a personal perspective on the common factors that help individuals to recover and prevent a repeat suicide attempt. This study aimed to uncover what factors contribute to the recovery of individuals currently receiving inpatient treatment after experiencing a suicide crisis. A qualitative methodology was used to achieve this aim. 5 adults, 3 women and 2 men, with an average age of 30.8 years, were interviewed by means of semi-structured interviews. All participants had attempted suicide no more than 1 year and no less than 1 month ago. All participants were treated in one of the VMPSC inpatient units at the time of the study. The data were analysed by thematic inductive analysis. The main themes that emerged from the data analysis were the following, which describe the factors that contribute to recovery from a suicide crisis: professional support factors, social support factors, internal resources and coping strategies, environmental influences and external factors. These themes highlight the importance of individualised professional support, as well as the importance of a sensitive and empathetic approach, acceptance from others, belonging to a group, and connection with others. At the same time, the importance of the individual's own motivation and involvement in the recovery process was also revealed. The results also highlighted a theme that reveals the individual dynamics of the process of coping with a suicide crisis. The results show that each person experiences the recovery process at an individual pace and that the process itself is different for everyone. Some of the participants in the study experience more pronounced positive changes in their condition, while others perceive their condition as not yet sufficiently recovered
The relationship between romantic relationship satisfaction, partner vitality, basic psychological needs satisfaction and subjective vitality among young adults.
No full textThe aim of this paper is to investigate what predicts subjective viability in the context of romantic relationships. The participants were 248 young adults (aged 18-35 years) of whom 221 were female and 27 were male. The participants were selected by non-probability convenience sampling. The Subjective Vitality Scale, the Subjectively Perceived Partner Vitality Scale, the Basic Needs Satisfaction Scale, the Couple Satisfaction Index Scale and demographic questions were used for the analysis of the study. Significant differences in subjective vitality were sought between those with and without acute or chronic illness, between those with and without a partner, between the person's own subjective vitality and their subjectively assessed partner's vitality, and between subjective vitality and all basic psychological need satisfaction, satisfaction with romantic relationships and subjectively perceived partner's vitality. In addition, the present study sought to find out which of the independent variables significantly predicted subjective viability. Analysis of the results showed that there were no significant differences in subjective viability between those with and without a romantic partner and those with and without an acute illness. Those with a chronic illness had significantly lower subjective vitality than those without a chronic illness. Individuals tended to rate their own vitality as lower than that of their partners. Subjective vitality was significantly positively associated with all basic needs, relationship satisfaction and subjectively perceived partner's vitality, but only autonomy and competence needs and subjectively perceived partner's vitality significantly predicted subjective vitality. Future research would benefit from considering broader, deeper aspects of romantic relationships when attempting to explore the dynamics of subjective viability in the context of romantic relationships
The impact of lean thinking and digitalization on process performance in aviation organizations.
No full textThe master's thesis consists of 88 pages, 10 tables, 8 figures, and 161 references. The master's thesis consists of an introduction, 3 chapters, conslusions, suggestions, references and sources, appendices, and a summary (in Lithuanian and English). The aim of the thesis is to analyze scientific literature and conduct empirical research to determine the impact of Lean thinking and digitization on the results of aviation organizations' processes. The literature review reveals the specifics of the aviation industry, the concepts of digitization and Lean thinking, the impact of Lean thinking and digitization on aviation organizations, and, based on scientific research, analyzes the indicators used to evaluate process results. In the methodological part, a quantitative survey method was chosen, consisting of four constructs and demographic questions. A total of 234 respondents from different countries and different aviation sectors participated in the study. Descriptive statistical analysis, construct reliability analysis, normality and mediation analysis were performed. The final stage presents the conclusions of the study and substantiates the hypotheses put forward. The conclusions and recommendations of the final thesis are presented at the end of the thesis, responding to the tasks set and presenting the most important aspects of the literature review and empirical research
The influence of managers‘ strategic thinking, creativity and skills on business process management decisions.
No full textSUMMARY 64 pages, 25 tables, 17 figures, 56 literature sources. The aim of this master's thesis is to examine the influence of strategic thinking, skills, and creativity of managers on business process management decisions, based on an analysis of these concepts. This academic work consists of three parts: a literature review, research methodology, analysis and evaluation of research results. The literature review revealed that strategic thinking is one of the core competencies of a manager, encompassing logic, creativity, the ability to forecast the future, and multidimensional thinking. These attributes help in making decisions focused on innovation and adaptation to a changing environment, thus aiming for the long-term success of the organization. It was also found that managerial skills - technical, human, and conceptual skills - are important. Research shows that specialized knowledge, analytical thinking, teamwork, the promotion of collaboration, and the ability to view the organization as a whole contribute to making effective decisions. From this, it was concluded that the factor of creativity has a significant impact on both strategic thinking and managerial skills, and therefore, it was included as an additional research variable that can significantly strengthen and enhance the effectiveness of business process management decisions. The results of the quantitative study showed that five out of seven hypotheses were confirmed. It was determined that managerial skills have a direct positive effect on business process management decisions, while creativity has a positive effect on decision-making through strategic thinking and skills. It also became clear that creativity directly promotes both strategic thinking and the strengthening of managerial skills. However, the study found that neither strategic thinking nor creativity has a direct influence on business process management decisions. The conclusions of the master's thesis summarize all three parts of the work and present recommendations
Metilinimui jautrios Cas9 nukleazės kryptinga evoliucija žmogaus genomo redagavimui.
No full textCRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) locus and Cas (CRISPR-associated) proteins provide adaptive immunity in bacteria and archaea by integrating foreign DNA into the CRISPR locus. This sequence is transcribed into a guide RNA (gRNA), which directs a Cas nuclease to recognize and cleave target DNA adjacent to a PAM (protospacer adjacent motif). The gRNA can be programmed to target any sequence of interest, enabling precise genome editing and diagnostic applications. Epigenetic modifications can influence CRISPR-Cas activity. Though target or PAM methylation does not hinder the widely used Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9, DNA condensation in highly methylated region can, making certain genomic sites less accessible for editing. In contrast, Acidothermus cellulolyticus Cas9 (AceCas9) senses methylation. Its cleavage activity depends on whether the first (but not the second) cytosine of its PAM sequence is methylated (5′-NNNCC-3′). This property offers potential for methylation-sensitive gene editing. AceCas9 operates in Escherichia coli and Clostridium thermocellum, but function in human cells remains unknown. This work aimed to determine this. This study demonstrated that AceCas9 can be expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK293T) cells and enter the nucleus, which are key processes preceding genome editing. To assess editing in human cells, two endogenous human gene loci, PCSK9 and UBE3A, were targeted with AceCas9. AceCas9-mediated editing in human cells remains inconclusive due to low levels of detected editing and the lack of clear distinction in sequencing data. This study also aimed to evolve AceCas9 to recognize a 5′-NNNCG-3′ PAM, as cytosine methylation in CpG dinucleotides is the most prevalent DNA methylation in human cells. A library of 11600 AceCas9 PAM-interacting domain variants was constructed and a ccdB-based directed evolution method was employed, linking Cas9 activity with bacterial survival. However, none of the tested variants were able to recognize a target with the 5′-NNNCG-3′ PAM. These findings suggest that while AceCas9 can be expressed in human cells and localized to the nucleus, it requires further optimization for genome editing in human cells. The inability to evolve AceCas9 to recognize a 5′-NNNCG-3′ highlights our need for continued development of human-specific genome editing tools
The confessional poetry of giedrė kazlauskaitė.
No full textThis master’s thesis examines the confessional poetry of Giedrė Kazlauskaitė. It is observed that contemporary Lithuanian poetry has increasingly become more confessional and personal. However, there are no comprehensive studies in Lithuania that address either contemporary confessional poetry or Kazlauskaitė’s work in this context. In light of critical reception, it is evident that the poet’s work is associated with openness, autobiographical elements, intimacy, and themes that engage the readers. Therefore, this paper introduces the relatively new concept of metamodernism, proposed by Timotheus Vermeulen and Robin van den Akker, to describe contemporary culture—particulary its association with openness and sincerity. This framework allows for a closer examination of the defining features of contemporary confessional poetry and those attributed to Kazlauskaitė’s poems. Given to the novelty of metamodernism, the thesis conceptualizes features observable in the literary field, identifying key characteristics of contemporary literature: the structure of feeling, the oscillation between modernism and postmodernism (the reworking of past styles or conventions), the sense of threat, affectivity and subjectivity, post-irony, and the auto-reflexivity. These features are used to define contemporary Lithuanian confessional poetry. This concept is applied in a semiotic analysis of two poems: “Barstykime žiedlapiais gatves...” from “Heterų dainos” (2008) and “Silentium” from “Meninos” (2014). Prior to the detailed analysis of the poems, the authorial texts on the back covers of each book are examined. Signed under the name of Giedrė Kazlauskaitė and employing a speaking ‘I’ as well as concrete references to reality, these texts create a structural feeling of confession and suggest appropriate reading strategies for the poems. This study observes that “Barstykime žiedlapiais gatves...” produces an ambivalent feeling of confession, yet experiential affectivity and thematic openess. Meanwhile, “Silentium” displays pronounced subjectivity and affective, entering dialogue with the literary tradition of Fyodor Tyutchev’s poem “Silentium!” and Vincas Mykolaitis-Putinas’s autobiographical novel “Altorių šešėly” (In the Shadow of Altars). Intertexts are used to establish a new relationship with the present—a confession of the unspeakable, a frankness veiled in poetic imagery, yet without the pathos of the Romantic tradition. The two poems are united by their reliance on the reader’s knowledge of the author’s biography, which reinforces the poems’ inherent affectivity, invites interpretation, and fosters engagement. This thesis concludes that Kazlauskaitė’s poems can be regarded as examples of contemporary confessional poetry, and it offers a newly defined conception of the genre. It also suggests the value of further analysis of other poems from the aforementioned collections, as well as examination of the poet’s more recent work. Finally, the study outlines possible directions for future research and raises questions concerning characteristics and further development of confessional poetry in Lithuania
Nurses' experiences in creating a safe environment for people with dementia.
No full textJolita Jančevskaja, Master's Thesis in the Advanced Nursing Practice Study Program: "Nurses' experiences in creating a safe environment for patients with dementia." Supervisor–assist. dr. Rasa Stundžienė. Consultant – assist. dr. Agnė Jakavonytė-Akstinienė. Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing. Vilnius, 2025; 74 pages (excluding appendices and reference list). Rationale: Individuals with dementia experience not only memory impairments but also behavioural and emotional disturbances. Aggressive behaviour, occurring in 70–90% of cases, can pose a threat to both patients and those around them. Nurses with specialized skills and experience in working with dementia patients can create a safe environment and play a key role in improving the care of hospitalized individuals with dementia. Aim of the Study. To identify nurses' experiences in creating a safe environment for patients with dementia. Objectives of the Study: 1. To assess nurses’ experiences regarding a safe environment for patients with dementia. 2. To identify the challenges faced by nurses in creating a safe environment for patients with dementia. 3. To evaluate nurses’ training needs related to creating a safe environment for patients with dementia. Research Methods. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews. The questions were developed by the researcher based on an analysis of Lithuanian and international scientific literature. Data were analysed using content analysis. The interviews were conducted from November 2024 to February 2025. The study was carried out in two long-term care and nursing hospitals with specialized dementia care units. Results. The study revealed that nurses focus heavily on adapting the environment, removing hazardous objects, continuous monitoring, medication control, and ensuring emotional security when communicating with patients. Creating a safe environment is considered a complex process that includes physical, social, and emotional safety. Challenges identified include communication difficulties with patients and their relatives, behavioural fluctuations, aggression, disorientation, lack of communication skills, and emotional burnout among nurses. Conclusions. In creating a safe environment, nurses apply individualized care, various safety measures, and actively contribute to patient safety. However, they often face challenges related to the unrealistic expectations of patients' relatives and communication difficulties with dementia patients caused by speech disorders, mood swings, or aggression. Nurses actively participate in specialized training and express the need to further develop their knowledge in patient behaviour management, psychology, emotional resilience, and innovative care practices
Identification of pathogenesis mechanisms and biofilm formation factors in methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (mrsa) strains.
No full textStaphylococcus aureus infections are among the leading causes of hospital-associated mortality in Lithuania and worldwide. Due to complex virulence mechanisms, this bacterium can evade the immune system, colonize tissues, and cause life-threatening conditions. Particularly concerning are methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains and those capable of biofilm formation, which complicate treatment. This study investigated the genetic and phenotypic virulence factors of MRSA and their correlation. 22 virulence-associated genes were analyzed by PCR, biofilm formation was assessed using a colorimetric method, and extracellular enzyme and siderophore activities were evaluated by plate assays. A total of 90 clinical MRSA isolates from two Vilnius hospitals were examined. The findings contribute to a better understanding of MRSA pathogenesis mechanisms. Genes related to biofilm formation (spa, icaR, fnbA, clfB, and icaD) were the most prevalent, detected in 83.3–100% of isolates. Certain genes were significantly associated with biofilm formation strength: the seb gene was more frequently found in weak biofilm producers (10.5%) compared to moderate producers (0.0%) (p < 0.05), while the ebps gene was more common in moderate biofilm producers (17.4%) than in weak producers (7.9%) (p = 0.05). Although extracellular enzyme and siderophore activities were widespread among MRSA isolates, no statistically significant association with biofilm formation ability was observed. However, protease activity positively correlated with specific biofilm-related genes (icaC, clfA, ebps), and siderophore activity correlated significantly with fnbA, cna and icaC genes
The impact of quality management systems on service quality in retail trade.
No full textThe work is 59 pages long, it has 6 figures, 18 tables and 54 references. The main objective of the thesis is to analyze scientific literature, develop a methodology for quantitative research, conduct quantitative research and determine the relationships between the variables. The thesis consists of three parts: Literature review, research methodology, analysis of the study and the results presented, summary and conclusions. The literature review presents the concept of service quality, its evaluation, the application of the SERVQUAL methodology, an overview of the different quality management systems and their impact on the retail service sector. The quantitative study chosen for the research consisted of 3 constructs with a total of 406 respondents. In analyzing the study, the demographic characteristics of the participants were summarized, the relationships between the demographic characteristics and the different response blocks were determined, and a SERVQUAL analysis was conducted. Factor analysis using KMO and Bartlett's tests, multiple regression using Anova, the coefficient of determination of the regression equation and the results of the p-values were used to support or refute the hypotheses. The conclusions present the results, prove the hypothesis and fulfill the objectives of the master thesis. The work can also serve as an aid for newly established companies in the retail sector who are considering which quality management system to choose, how to assess the quality of the services provided and which indicators can be used for an appropriate assessment
Research of the recombinant amyloid-beta aggregates formed in artificial cerebrospinal fluid.
No full textOne of the main causes of dementia development is Alzheimer's disease, with Aβ42 amyloid considered one of its primary pathological agents due to its ability to aggregate and form fibrils. The efficiancy of drugs that inhibit amyloid aggregation depends on the composition of the media used in experimental studies. Accurate replication of physiological conditions can influence the aggregation properties of the Aβ42 amyloid, affecting fibril morphology and aggregation kinetics, and may also affect the interaction between the drug and its targets, thereby positively or negatively impacting its effectiveness. The aim of this study was to evaluate the kinetic and morphological (fibril structure, size, and distribution) properties of the Aβ42 amyloid protein aggregates in artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) and in the physiological buffer PBS. To achieve this aim, aggregation kinetics of Aβ42 were studied in both aCSF and PBS, with the results indicating that fibrils aggregate faster in PBS. Atomic force microscopy analysis revealed that Aβ42 fibrils in aCSF are more dispersed, taller, and exhibit a broader height distribution compared to fibrils formed in PBS. Additionally, cryo-electron microscopy results showed that Aβ42 fibrils affected by the inhibitor can be morphologically classified into a greater number of classes than those in the control group without the inhibitor. In the samples treated by the inhibitor, thinner fibrils with more twists dominate compared to the control samples without the inhibitor