bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stage Monologue and its Linguistic Features (Textual and Prosodic Analysis)
Authors: Velikaya Elena Vasilievna
Published: January 2022

Spoken language production is considered to be one of the most difficult aspects of teaching a foreign language. It usually involves mastering pronunciation of sounds and intonation. If nowadays many teachers do not worry about the phonetic details of sounds, there is still focus on intonation as it has a great impact on the comprehensibility of the learner’s English. This is a very important issue for future teachers because correctness of pronunciation is one of the goals of any spoken language programme, with students asked to produce quite extended spoken monologues and to follow the requirements of various intonational styles. The aim of this study is to analyse textual and prosodic characteristics of stage monologue – a text produced on a theatre stage or in a film. Analytical methods were applied in order to obtain information about textual features and prosodic stylistic markers such as pitch level, range, tone modifications, loudness, and tempo, and also to develop style-forming factors in stage monologue. Results show that the stage monologues analysed possess all necessary characteristics of a text: informational content, delimitation, continuum, coherence, cohesion and completeness. Further analysis of stage monologue showed that it can be characterised by such specific features as expressiveness, normativeness, effectiveness, and conversational character. Stage monologues also possess all necessary prosodic markers. Certain style-forming factors of stage monologue were also developed in this study, including delimitation, accentuation of key words, thematic centres and expressively prominent centres, type of composition scheme, and theme. These results will be of significant pedagogical value to students who intend to become English teachers, and to teachers involved in linguistics research.
A Study into the Pyramid Discussion Approach with Pre-Service English Teachers in Japan
Authors: Hiratsuka Takaaki
Published: January 2022

The main concern of this article is the nature and the role of an EFL classroom speaking activity, known as pyramid discussion, whereby learners progressively form larger groups as they carry out a series of discussions on certain topics. This research interest stemmed from my personal experiences as an English language teacher in the context of Japan in which the majority of the teachers still regard the act of teaching English as the presentation of compartmentalized knowledge, as opposed to the promotion of communicative abilities. In this article, I introduce an action research study into the employment of the pyramid discussion approach in an English Teaching Methods course at a Japanese university and illuminate the effectiveness of the approach on the students, who are pre-service English teachers, in the course. Data will detail how the approach could notably assist the participants in seizing communication opportunities in English and in holding positive attitudes toward their teacher, classmates, and themselves as learners and future teachers of English. Implications are provided as a conclusion
Conflict transformation and collaboration in developing social forestry in Flores, Indonesia
Authors: Maring Prudensius
Published: January 2022

Social movements to realize forest tenure reforms have been ongoing since the 1970s, particularly through policies under the broad umbrella of social forestry. In Indonesia, social forestry programs  are initiated by the government, communities, NGOs, academics, companies, and donors, and are based on specific socio-economic and ecological interests. Weak synergies, however between programmatic implementation and stakeholder interests, triggers various forest tenure conflicts. The research examines the complexity of these conflicts, namely focusing around the approaches to conflict transformation that can lead to collaboration in realizing forest sustainability that also support interests of people living in and around forests. I employed  a qualitative approach by   collecting data through  in-depth interviews and participatory observations in Flores in 2017 and 2020. The results show that forest tenure conflicts have occurred since the 1970s due to state forest territorialization. Conflicts culminated in the determination of state forest area boundaries through the 1984 state program entitled the “consensus-based forest land use planning” initiative. Until 2008, efforts to resolve conflicts by offering the community access rights through  community forestry programs   initiated by the government were rejected by NGOs and the local community.  NGOs facilitated communities to  demand the return of state forest land as  customary forest. This conflict presented the opportunity to facilitate multi-stakeholder forestry programs through a conflict transformation approach by building long-term stakeholder collaboration. Since 2010, the collaboration between stakeholders  took place through the community forest  program. This study shows  the need for more direct attention to studying conflict resolution under an integrated and long-term approach to conflict transformation and collaboration. Pragmatically,  this study shows the importance of integrated social forestry policies that synergize various schemes initiated by stakeholders to realize forest sustainability and support local community interests.
Parental risk factors associated with congenital heart disease in a Thai population: multivariable analysis
Authors: Suwansumrit Chayamon , Jittham Worawan
Published: January 2022

Background

Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are the most common types of birth defects and contribute to a large proportion of infant morbidities and mortalities worldwide. These defects may require multiple surgical interventions impacting the infant's quality of life.

Objectives

To identify risk factors associated with CHD in a population of Thai children.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study of patients attending the Pediatric Clinic, Naresuan University Hospital, Thailand. We included data from pediatric patients diagnosed with CHDs as cases, and patients without cardiovascular abnormalities as controls. Risk data were collected from July 2019 to April 2020 using face-to-face interviews. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze parental factors associated with CHDs.

Results

We included 249 cases classified into 2 groups according to severity and 304 patients as controls. For those less-severely affected (155 patients, 62.2%), ventricular septal defect (27.7%) was the most prevalent, whereas for those with severe CHDs, tetralogy of Fallot was the most prevalent (14.0%). There was no difference in sex distribution or maternal obstetric history between the groups. In multivariable analysis, a family history of CHDs (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 4.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.61–13.57, P = 0.005) and maternal exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke (AOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.03–2.42, P = 0.002) were identified as significant risk factors for CHDs.

Conclusion

A family history of CHDs and maternal exposure to second-hand cigarette smoke are associated with having offspring with CHDs in the population studied. These findings help us to encourage affected parents to obtain a fetal echocardiogram.
Regulatory roles of lncRNA PANDAR in breast cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Sun Qinnuan , Wang Xiumei
Published: January 2022

Background

Breast cancer represents the second most deadly malignancy in women, and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have crucial functions in its development.

Objective

To investigate effects of the promoter of CDKN1A antisense DNA damage-activated RNA (PANDAR) on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in breast cancer cells and their proliferation.

Methods

lncRNAs potentially regulating the transcriptional activity of the E-cadherin (E-cad, an epithelial cell marker) gene promoter were screened using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. PANDAR was overexpressed in Michigan cancer foundation 7 (MCF-7) breast cancer cells. E-cad and N-cadherin (N-cad, a mesenchymal cell marker) levels were detected by immunoblotting. Cell viability was assessed using a cell counting kit-8.

Results

PANDAR and TCONS00068220/LOC105375819 conservatively regulated the promoter activity of E-cad. PANDAR overexpression in MCF-7 inhibited E-cad expression, but upregulated N-cad. The enhanced expression of PANDAR promoted cell proliferation.

Conclusion

PANDAR is a key transcriptional repressor of E-cad and has regulatory effects on the promotion of cell proliferation. PANDAR is an oncogene in breast cancer, potentially facilitating the EMT process and promoting cell proliferation.
Intraventricular tuberculosis abscess in an immunocompromised patient: clinical vignette
Authors: Hanafiah Mohamad , Mukhari Shahizon A Mohamed , Mustapha Aida M , Mumin Nazimah Ab
Published: January 2022

Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculosis of the central nervous system is common and manifestations include meningeal and intraparenchymal diseases. However, intraventricular tuberculous abscess is a rare manifestation of intracranial tuberculous infection. We present a case of an immunocompromised female patient with high-grade fever and signs of meningism. The computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed hydrocephalus with rim-enhancing lesion in the right lateral ventricle. The MRI demonstrated a hypointense signal on T1-weighted imaging, hyperintense signal on T2-weighted imaging, and mild restricted diffusion in diffusion-weighted imaging. She underwent emergency external ventricular drainage and frank pus was drained. Diagnosis of tuberculosis was made via polymerase chain reaction analysis and culture. Understanding the intracranial manifestation of neurotuberculosis is imperative to arrive at the diagnosis correctly and ensure prompt treatment.
Comparative Multimodal Palliative efficacy of gabapentin and tramadol By Using Two Pain Scoring Systems in Cats Undergoing Ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Rabbani Ameer Hamza , Ullah Qudrat , Naseer Omer , Gardezi Faizan Haider , Shahid Muhammad , Hussain Kashif , Saleem Taimoor , Ali Ahmad , Khan Yasir Razzaq , Waheed Abdul
Published: January 2022

The analgesic efficacy of the gabapentin-tramadol combination was compared with meloxicam-tramadol and tramadol perioperative analgesic regimens in cats brought to the clinic for ovariohysterectomy. Thirty adult cats belonging to comparable demographics (age, body weight), were enrolled into a randomized, blinded study after due consent from their owners into four treatment groups. A Gabapentin-Tramadol group (GT-group, n = 10), Meloxicam-Tramadol group (MT-group, n = 10), and a Tramadol group (T-group, n = 10) were formed. Gabapentin capsules at 50 mg were administered orally 2 hours before surgery while the rest received a placebo dose. Tramadol (2 mg/kg, IM) and meloxicam at (0.2 mg/kg, SC) were injected immediately prior to anesthetic premedication. Anesthetic protocol involved premedication with ketamine and xylazine, while anesthesia was induced using propofol. Inhalant isoflurane anesthesia was used to maintain a surgical plane. GT group scored lower on IVAS as well as CPS than MT group, and T group for up to 8 hours after surgery. The mechanical nociceptive threshold remained higher (98±0) for up to 12 hours postoperatively a nd serum cortisol concentrations remained significantly lower during the 24hr period. The addition of gabapentin to the tramadol regimen significantly improved analgesia and mechanical nociceptive threshold than when used on its own.
Characterisation of AmpC / ESBL genes in some pathogen gram-negatives isolated from clinical cases of livestock and companion animals
Authors: Pehlivanoglu Faruk , Sababoglu Ezgi
Published: January 2022

This study was aimed to search and characterize the AmpC and/or ESBL genes of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from clinical cases of local livestock and companion animals between 2017 and 2019. A total of eight ceftiofur-resistant E. coli (n= 7) and ceftiofur-resistant K. pneumoniae (n= 1) and seven P. aeruginosa were isolated from different cases in local animals. By combination disc method, six E. coli isolates and one K. pneumoniae isolate were found to be ESBL producers. By combination of the disc method and double disc synergy test, no P. aeruginosa isolates were found as ESBL producers. In the agar disc diffusion test (ADDT) performed with cefoxitin and cefoxitin-boronic, only one E. coli was determined as AmpC producer. In ESBL-producing isolates, only the CTX-M class gene was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and subsequent sequence analysis revealed CTX-M-3 and CTX-M-15 variants. An AmpC positive E. coli isolate was found to carry plasmidic ampC gene in cmy-2 variant from CIT family. It was observed that P. aeruginosa isolates did not carry the plasmidic ampC gene. After the chromosomal ampC gene of one P. aeruginosa was amplified by PCR and sequenced, R79Q and T105A mutations in the chromosomal ampC gene was revealed. This showed that overproduction of the ampC enzyme is involved in the resistance to β-lactams in P. aeruginosa isolates in the study.
Antibody profiles of avian leukosis virus subgroups A/B and J In layer flocks suspected to have Marek’s disease in Nigeria
Authors: Sani Nuhu Abdulazeez , Ugochukwu Iniobong Chukwuebuka , Saleh Ahmadu , Abalaka Samson Eneojo , Muhammed Muhammed Shuaib , Idoko Idoko Sunday , Oladele Sunday Blessing , Abdu Paul Ayuba , Njoku Celestine
Published: January 2022

Previous reports indicate high seroprevalence of avian leukosis virus (ALV) p72 antigen in layer flocks suspected to have Marek’s disease (MD) in Kaduna and Plateau States. However, the specific subgroups responsible for ALV infection in layers in the States are still unknown, hence the need for this study. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the antibody profiles of ALV subgroups A/B and J in layer flocks suspected to have MD in Kaduna and Plateau States. Sera from 7 and 16 layer flocks suspected to have MD in Kaduna and Plateau States respectively, were screened for the presence of antibodies to ALV subgroups A/B and J using IDEXX enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Out of the seven layer flocks screened in Kaduna State, antibodies to ALV subgroup A/B was detected in six of the flocks (85.7%), while antibodies to ALV subgroup J was detected in only one flock (14.3%). Antibodies to both ALV subgroups A/B and J were detected in one flock (14.3%), which suggests co-infection of the two ALV subgroups. Out of the 16 flocks screened in Plateau State, antibodies to ALV subgroup A/B were detected in 15 flocks (93.8%), while antibodies to ALV subgroup J were detected in six flocks (37.5%). Antibodies to both ALV subgroups A/B and J were detected in five flocks (31.3%). The high detection of antibodies to ALV A/B suggests that ALV infection in layers is mostly due to ALV subgroup A or B in the study areas.
Investigation of the Effects of L-carnitine and magnesium on Oxidative Stress and Cytokines in the Tissue of Experimental diabetic rats
Authors: Senturk Meryem , Eren Meryem , Sarica Zeynep Soyer
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of L-carnitine and magnesium on the levels of tissue malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine, and cytokines (tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6) in streptozotocin-induced experimental diabetes in rats. Eighty male Wistar albino rats (200-250 g) were divided into 8 groups with 10 rats in each group. The groups received the following treatments: Control group; 2 ml distilled water (by gavage); Group 2: 50 mg/kg (b.w.) i.p. streptozotocin; Group 3: 125 mg/kg (b.w.) magnesium; Group 4: 300 mg/kg (b.w.) L-carnitine; Group 5: 125 mg/kg (b.w.) magnesium +300 mg/kg (b.w.) L-carnitine; Group 6: 50 mg/kg (b.w.) streptozotocin +125 mg/kg (b.w.) magnesium; Group 7: 50 mg/kg (b.w.) streptozotocin +300 mg/kg (b.w.) L-carnitine and Group 8: 50 mg/kg (b.w.) streptozotocin +125 mg/ kg (b.w.) magnesium+300 mg/kg (b.w.) L-carnitine administered for 4 weeks. Liver and kidney malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6 levels did not change in the magnesium, L-carnitine, and magnesium + L-carnitine groups compared to the control. The highest levels of malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6 were determined only in the group with diabetes (Group 2). Lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and cytokine levels were significantly reduced in diabetic animals with the administration of magnesium and L-carnitine separately or in combination. Based on the obtained results it can be concluded that magnesium and L-carnitine may have antidiabetic effects, especially in combination.
Planning a Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor: Networks, engagement and creating opportunities
Authors: Magennis Eoin , Corrigan Jordana , Blair Neale , Broin Deiric Ó
Published: January 2022

Cross-border cooperation on the island of Ireland has a long history, if often a limited scope. The emergence of statutory North/South bodies after the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement of 1998 added a new dynamic. This paper argues that the further development of the Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor will require key stakeholders to engage widely, not only with a private sector whose rationale will be greater levels of commercial activity along the Corridor but also with others who will bring additional agendas into discussion, including sustainability and quality of life. Political engagement will also be critical to ensure that the top-down support, in terms of investment and alignment with other policy priorities, is present. The framework for this collaboration is already in place, something that was absent in the 1990s. Actors and policy entrepreneurs who can bring together the different types of engagement on a cross-border basis are required.
The role of the community and voluntary sector in identifying vulnerabilities to climate change in coastal areas and implementing climate adaptation responses
Authors: Lawlor Paul
Published: January 2022

The National Adaptation Framework aims to reduce Ireland’s vulnerability to climate change by establishing climate adaptation considerations as a priority at local, regional and national level. With coastal areas and habitats particularly susceptible to negative climate change effects, it is necessary to build resilience in these areas by devising coastal adaptation responses in collaboration with coastal communities. Policies and structures have also been put in place to create an enabling environment which facilitates community participation. However, the extent of community engagement and its current role in formulating and implementing coastal adaptation responses are unclear. This paper assesses the effectiveness of the enabling environment in encouraging community-led coastal adaptation solutions by identifying community and voluntary groups who are actively engaging with stakeholders at all levels of governance in key adaptation tasks. The findings reveal that the policies and structures for enhanced local participation in coastal adaptation responses are in place, but as only a small number of communities are actively engaging in coastal adaptation solutions, further progress in their implementation is needed.
Contribution to the taxonomic revision ofBrachycorythis-complex (Orchidaceae, Orchidoideae)
Authors: Olędrzyńska Natalia , Szlachetko Dariusz Lucjan
Published: January 2022

The aim of this paper is to present materials towards the taxonomic revision ofBrachycorythis-complex (Orchidinae, Orchidaceae), which constitutes seven terrestrial genera and forty-eight species distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar and SW Asia. The detailed morphological descriptions, together with distribution data and ecological preferences for particular taxa are provided. Artificial keys for taxa identification were prepared. A molecular timescale forBrachycorythisspecies on a background of the subtribe Orchidinae was reconstructed using nuclear and plastid molecular markers. The results show that representatives ofBrachycorythisseparated from its last common ancestor presumably ca 20 Mya and the youngest taxa within the group seem to be its Asiatic representatives.
Misinterpretations and plagiarism in a publication about HimalayanImpatiens: polemics with the paper of Singh R.K.et al.2021
Authors: Gogoi Rajib , Adamowski Wojciech , Sherpa Norbu , Sharma Ashutosh , Borah Souravjyoti
Published: January 2022

In the publication “Typifications, new combinations and new synonyms in IndianImpatiens(Balsaminaceae)” by Singh, R. K.et al. (2021), the authors used pseudoscientific theoretical background, utilized material collected by other persons without citing the source of data in support of their claims, and made serious errors in the determination and delimitation ofImpatienstaxa occuring in Himalayas and adjacent areas. They proposed new combinations and statuses without sufficient field and literature studies and failed to show convincing evidences in their treatments. Their documentation lacks important details, like authorship of the published pictures, locations and dates of pictures, or measurements of plant parts; the whole documentation has geographically biased gaps – in case of Western Himalayan or Sikkimese taxa, there is almost no original illustrative material. Finally, they falsely claimed extensive field studies in Western Himalaya. This paper reinstates 19 species and 1 variety synonymised by Singhet al. (2021) with scientific evidences based on illustrations from types and colour photographs from fresh collections.
Assessment of genetic diversity and wilt disease resistance in hot pepper (Capsicum annuum) germplasm from Ethiopia
Authors: Woubit Dawit Bedane , Eleni Shiferaw , Fitsum Sileshi , Mekonnen Assefa , Shimeles Aklilu
Published: January 2022

Hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is an economically important crop in Ethiopia. Wide variability in hot pepper germplasm in Ethiopia is expected due to the presence of diverse environmental conditions and variation in farming systems. The present study was carried out to evaluate the resistance of 75 hot pepper accessions to wilt disease and assess their genetic diversity using SSR markers. Out of 75 accessions tested, the present study identified 23 accessions that showed resistance (R) with the value of 1-10% disease incidence. The genetic diversity assessment using 13 polymorphic SSR markers allowed the detection of 111 clear and scorable bands. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 5 to 13, with an average of 8.54. The PIC value ranged from 0.27 to 0.87 with an average of 0.59. The gene diversity indices were highly variable across SSR loci and ranged from 0.29 to 0.88 with mean genetic diversity of 0.62. Observed heterozygosity was also highly variable between loci (0.01-0.45) indicating that the accessions were not fixed to homozygosity. Furthermore, genetic diversity parameters were estimated among populations by grouping accessions based on their origin. Within populations, the PIC value ranged from 0.31 to 0.77. The genetic distances among the eight populations ranged from 0.15 to 0.48. The observed highest genetic diversity (0.80) in the Amhara region (Gojam) may indicate this area as the primary site for designing in situ conservation for this crop in Ethiopia. The research findings provide baseline information on disease resistance germplasm sources to be used for the breeding program, as well as the status of genetic diversity of the accessions for efficient conservation and proper utilization of the existing genetic resources in the country.
Ficus virens Aiton var. dispersa (Moraceae): a new record for India
Authors: Nair Sreehari Sivan , Bachan Kandarumadathil Hyder Amitha , Ebin Padiyara Joy
Published: January 2022

An interesting specimen of Ficus L. was collected from the Idukki district of Kerala. Based on detailed examination with protologues, literatures and type specimens, the plant was identified as Ficus virens Aiton var. dispersa Chantaras. This is the first report on the occurrence of this taxon in India. A detailed description, photographs, illustrations, comparison with allied taxa and identification key are provided.
The Difference Between Legal Control and Material Control - Coordination of Access Rights in Shared Workspaces
Authors: Busbach Uwe
Published: January 2022

Research purpose. Modern work is increasingly taking place in temporary workgroups embedded in decentralized work environments that transcend organizational boundaries. The first implementations of the shared workspace idea emerged in the 1990s in the CSCW research area and are now firmly integrated into the working world with systems such as Google Drive, OneDrive or Dropbox. However, when it comes to accessing documents, problems arise in terms of coordinating access to documents. Who can access the documents, modify them, and upload them back to the shared workspace? It should be noted that concurrent changes can lead to inconsistencies. Furthermore, incorrect changes to the content of documents can have economic and legal consequences. Who is responsible for this? Strict access control can avoid this problem if necessary. However, it contradicts the approach of agile cooperation, which benefits, among other things, from access to documents that is not restricted in terms of time and place.

Design / Methodology / Approach. The article proposes a semantic approach for access coordination of shared workspaces. Its basis is the legal distinction between the levels of legal control (owner) and material control (possessor). The owner of an object has the right and the duty to allow the other participants of the shared workspace to access it, i.e., to have material control. This is done through an agreement between the owner and the possessor, which specifies the conditions of material control. In addition to coordinating access, the owner is also responsible for arbitrating in case of conflict and deciding which changes are valid and which are not.

Findings. Transferring the distinction between owner and possessor leads to three possible classes of conflicts: Ownership vs ownership, ownership vs possession, and possession vs possession. Conflict schemes within these classes of conflict are analyzed in detail. On the one hand, it is possible to use strict, conflict-avoiding settings, but this tends to limit cooperation. On the other hand, greater cooperation agility can be enabled if the owner situationally controls access or if the owner has preset flexible response tactics in case a conflict arises. A closer look at possible conflict classes shows that it is necessary to adapt the legal concepts of owner and possessor to the cooperation situation.

Originality / Value / Practical implications. The concept of the legal distinction between owner and possessor has not yet been applied to the domain of access coordination in shared workspaces. This approach can introduce the previously missing semantics for access coordination, at least on an informal basis. It also improves participants’ awareness of the context of cooperation.
Supply Chain Management Practices and Manufacturing Firms Performance: Professionals’ Experience in Nigeria
Authors: Adebiyi Sulaimon Olanrewaju , Adediran Adeyemi Sulaiman , Shodiya Abideen Olayinka , Olusola Taiwo
Published: January 2022

Research purpose. The study aims at establishing how supply chain management (SCM) activities of manufacturing firms influence their performance optimally.

Design/Methodology/Approach. The research design adopted for the study is the survey research design; this is because we were interested in gathering information from a selected strategic fraction of a target population as it is not possible to meet them all. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from two hundred and twenty-seven (227) professionals from the five selected manufacturing firms in Lagos. The data were analyzed by the structural equation modelling (SEM) technique to ascertain the causal effect of the latent exogenous variables on the latent endogenous variables in the study.

Findings. Based on the results of the SEM adopted in testing the research hypotheses, strategic partnership has a statistically significant positive effect on customer satisfaction of manufacturing firms. Customer relationship management was revealed to have a positive effect on firm performance from the path analysis. This is substantiated by the path coefficient (0.35) of customer relationship management on performance proxied by customer satisfaction. However, information sharing has a weak positive effect on performance proxied by manufacturing efficiency. This is substantiated by the path coefficient (0.11) of information sharing on performance though the effect is not significant as p>0.05 and CR<1.96. Material flow management has a positive effect on performance proxied by manufacturing efficiency. This is substantiated by the path coefficient (0.30) of material flow management on firm performance. There is a positive effect of lean production on performance proxied by innovation performance. This is substantiated by the path coefficient (0.25) of lean production on performance. Finally, participative design/engineering was revealed to have a positive effect on performance proxied by innovation performance. This is substantiated by the path coefficient (0.23) of participative design/engineering on performance.

Originality/Value/Practical implications. This paper demonstrates that a higher degree of acceptance, application, and enhancement in SCM methods would directly increase the performance of manufacturing firms, especially in third world countries.
How Monetary Policy Affects the Lending and Economic Activity in a Banking System with Excess Liquidity
Authors: Saiti Dashmir , Gockov Gjorgji , Trenovski Borce
Published: January 2022

Research purpose. The purpose of this paper is to examine the efficiency of the transmission mechanism of the monetary policy in a banking system with excess liquidity. More specifically, it aims to examine how the interest rates of the central bank bills and inflation rate affect total lending and the overall economic activity in the country. For this purpose, the analysis is based on the case of the Republic of North Macedonia, whose banking system has exhibited excess liquidity in the past decade.

Design / Methodology / Approach. The paper is based on two different VECM models, analyzing the impact of the central bank bills interest rates and the inflation rate, on lending and real GDP in the Republic of North Macedonia, for the period 2000 – 2019. The analysis also encompasses unit root tests for the variables of interest in order to determine their order of integration and choose appropriate statistical methods. The short-run causality is assessed using the Granger causality test, whereas the existence of the potential long-run relationship is examined using the Johansen cointegration test. In addition, in order to determine the magnitude of the mutual relationship, variance decomposition is employed in both estimated models. Moreover, the stability of the models when exposed to external shocks is observed through their impulse response functions.

Findings. Conducted analysis shows the negative long-term impact of the central bank bills interest rates on lending and real GDP in North Macedonia. However, no statistically significant impact in this regard is found in the short run. Opposingly, the inflation rate negatively affects lending and real GDP in North Macedonia in the short run, whereas, in the long run, it does not have a statistically significant impact.

Originality / Value / Practical implications. Unlike many other studies in this area, this paper provides practical guidance for the monetary authorities in countries with excess liquidity in the banking system. Namely, its findings imply that central banks should reduce the interbank rate when faced with crises that cause liquidity disparities between banks. Failure to reduce interest rates during the crisis disrupts financial stability, which causes banks to withhold investing their liquid assets in the real economy.
Digital Transformation as a Competitive Factor in Supply Chain Management: Proof of Concept in One of the Largest Editorial Groups in Portugal
Authors: Carujo Sofia , Santos João Rocha , da Anunciação Pedro Fernandes
Published: January 2022

Research purpose. Through the adoption of the concept of the Proof of Concept, the main objective of this work is to highlight the approach that allows the framework and study of the viability of investments in the digital transformation of companies. The research focuses on the publishing sector and, mainly, on one of the largest publishing groups in Portugal and focuses on the strategic decision, due to the covid-19 pandemic situation, to adopt a Warehouse Management System to increase productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability of the company under study. Due to the need for confinement, publishers saw their sales drop drastically and the option of e-commerce implied the need for adjustments in the organizational dynamics associated with the distribution of products. The research/paper goal is to show the viability of investments in the digital transformation of companies in order to enlarge their efficiency and effectiveness.

Design / Methodology / Approach. As a methodology adopted in the first phase, the authors developed a framework of current challenges through the focus group technique. In the second phase, the authors conducted semi-structured interviews with the different managers of the group’s various companies and their departments. These methodological options aim to obtain more specific information on facts, the degree of relevance, validity, and reliability that is analyzed from the perspective of collecting information. Both methods provide elasticity in the approach and depth of the intended analysis, favoring spontaneous responses and the creation of openness to the approach of more complex and delicate topics.

Findings. Information technology investments do not automatically bring competitive advantages. It is essential to carry out careful management of the project and carefully analyze the economic and financial viability of the investment. The disruptive changes do not allow errors in investment. So, adopting a methodology that integrates the strategic analysis of the challenges and technical analysis of the assets and respective viability seems critical for the success of digital transformation projects, namely in the publishing sector.

Originality / Value / Practical implications. The digital transformation of companies is a current reality. The pandemic has highlighted digital as a factor of sustainability. However, this finding requires the preparation of management and the adoption of appropriate models and instruments. The present work presents a model that organizations can adapt to in a changing context.
Culture as a Driver of Sustainable Development in Europe
Authors: Verina Natalja , Astike Kristina , Grybaite Virginija , Budanceva Jelena
Published: January 2022

Research purpose. The link between culture and sustainable development has been frequently debated by European authorities and academicians. Culture is treated as a tool for the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and considered as the fourth pillar of sustainable development. The research goal is to investigate the relationship between culture-related indices and a country’s sustainable development based on European sample data.

Design / Methodology / Approach. To complete research, culture-related statistics indicators from Eurostat were collected and regressed against the SDG index, based on data covered 2016-2019.

Findings. The relationship between culture-related indices and SDG score was specified using European statistical data. The most significant impact on sustainable development measure was revealed regarding the factors “cultural employment” and “government expenditure on culture”.

Originality / Value / Practical implications. The current research differs from most studies that investigated cultural issues using the mathematical apparatus versus the commonly used practice of interviewing consumers or representatives of the cultural sector. The results of this research could be used by municipalities, the cultural private sector, and NGOs by arguing for funding and applying for EU grants. On the other hand, the results and approach of this research could be transposed to other regions to understand the common cultural impact on sustainable development in the non-EU part of the world.
Failure of the tail rotor of the Mi-24 helicopter as a result of a long-term impact of spatial resonance coupling
Authors: Kowalczyk Henryk , Gębura Andrzej , Tokarski Tomasz , Kwiatkowski Tadeusz
Published: January 2022

The most important element that has an impact on the safety of flight includes the helicopter power plant and the transmission shaft assembly. Monitoring with the use of the traditional vibroacoustic techniques does not provide satisfactory results. It is especially difficult to detect spatial resonance couplings, which may result in dangerous and rapid breaking of elements. This article focuses on a specific mechanism for formation and deepening of resonance and effects of resonance couplings of two subassemblies. For their monitoring, the FAM-C method was applied. It uses an on-board generator as a sensor. This is a synchronous method, which enables one to detect the onset of spatial resonance.
Using the Telemetry System as an Element of the Engine Operation Monitoring System of UAS
Authors: Buczkowska-Murawska Teresa , Żokowski Mariusz
Published: January 2022

The article presents an engineering approach that allows us to collect engine operation characteristics using built-in telemetry mechanisms, filled with the passive recording system. As a result of the development of the solution, the characteristics of the engine operation were obtained under real conditions, and the universal registration tool was built with a wider application than simply the registration of the engine operating parameters. The development of the solution allowed measurements to be obtained in a passive mode using a distributed architecture for engine monitoring and engine operation characteristics, which would be difficult to obtain and archive without logger production, especially during flight tests.
The Use of Innovative Contact Strip for Pantographs of Electric Rolling Stock. Experience in Operational and Bench Tests
Authors: Mukha Andrii , Ustymenko Dmytro , Diab Al Said Ahmad Mohammad , Kuznetsov Valeriy , Skrzyniarz Marek , Szulc Waldemar
Published: January 2022

Modern high-tech composite materials are widely used in various sectors of the economy, in particular, in railway transport. Among the areas of application of such innovative materials, the manufacturing of contact strips for pantographs of electric rolling stock should be mentioned. Innovation is primarily understood as the self-lubricating property of the working surface of the linings. The linings made of such materials differ from the traditional graphite (coal) ones by the increased content of metal additives, in particular copper, which limits the possibility of their use on electric rolling stock in the countries of the European Union. Regulatory restrictions on the content of copper (35% and 40%) are associated with possible damage to the contact wire, in the case of using overlays with a content of copper (metals) greater than these restrictions. On the railways of Ukraine (countries of the former USSR), there are also restrictions on the use of linings of different types according to the degree of wear of the contact wire, no more than 40 microns is allowed per 10 thousand passes of the locomotive pantograph along the contact wire. These standards are verified during operational and bench tests. The aim of the article is to present the types of tests and compare the obtained values with similar indicators in the case of using a traditional contact strip for pantographs of electric rolling stock. The results obtained confirm the possibility of using innovative linings on iron networks, since the wear of the contact wire during testing is much lower than that of the normative and knife than for traditional types of linings. In addition, during a set of tests, the fact of improving the quality of the working surface of the contact wire was established, which positively affects the extension of the service life of the contact wire.
Electric Aircraft Propulsion
Authors: Kozakiewicz Adam , Grzegorczyk Tomasz
Published: January 2022

This paper presents the state of the art in electric aircraft propulsion systems. The necessary reduction of greenhouse gas emissions on the global scale forces aviation engineers to search for ‘green’ solutions. Electric aircraft propulsion is a potential and relatively intuitive choice for a reduction of emissions in flight operations. This paper showcases four architectures of aircraft propulsion systems being now considered to utilise the advantages of electric propulsion with commercially profitable operating range and payload capabilities. One of the largest technological obstacles to the widespread use of electric propulsion in aviation is the low energy density of modern electric batteries. This paper presents the types of power supply which may achieve an energy density above the minimum threshold of 500 Wh/kg, and alternative onboard electrical power sources. The paper also shows novel designs of electric motors intended for aerospace applications. The final sections of this paper shows the implemented projects of aircraft with electric propulsion and the electric aircraft propulsion research projects underway around the world.
The Synthesis of Gemini Ionic Salt in the Form of a (Tetra)Fluoborate of 1,4-Bis- ((1-Decyloimidazol-3-Yl)Methyl)Benzene
Authors: Turlej Anna , Skolniak Marta , Nowosielski Jacek
Published: January 2022

Ionic liquids as anticorrosion agents have a wide spectrum of unique properties, which make them less harmful than the majority of typical organic corrosion inhibitors in antifreeze. The synthesis of ionic liquids enables them to be provided with the desired physicochemical and thermodynamical properties by the appropriate selection of cations, anions, and alkyl substituents on the cations. The aim of this paper is the synthesis of the gemini ionic salt (ionic liquid) made up of two imidazole rings with a linear alkyl substituent with 10 carbon atoms, bonded by a 1,4-dimethylphenyl moiety. Such compounds are studied in view of steel protection against oxidizing and corrosive effects. The compound was obtained in a satisfactory yield.
Diagnostics of the Excessive Wear of the Machine on a Model of Developmental, Progressive Interactions Between Diagnostic Signals and Rotation Speed Signals
Authors: Lindstedt Paweł , Rokicki Edward , Deliś Maciej , Dobosz Kamila , Czarnecki Andrzej
Published: January 2022

In the machine operating process, there are certain interactions between its operational use and wear. The current wear is increased by the current intensity of operational use, and usable potential is reduced by the current wear rate. In the diagnostic inference process, static characteristics and trajectories of state from the experiment are compared with different matrices determined for various assumed configurations of changes. As a result, the approximated diagnosis is created. This method is not universal. It applies only to the continuous progressive state, more or less increased wear rate of the machine.
Transformation of the morphometry of Lake Osieckie – largest lake in the Holy Cross region
Authors: Choiński Adam , Zieliński Artur
Published: January 2022

The paper presents the analysis of the transformation of Lake Osieckie, the largest lake in the Holy Cross region until 2016. It is a valley lake that according to cartographic materials had undergone no changes in the shoreline since ca. 1938. The nearby activity of a sulphur mine required building three dikes on the lake, dividing it into four independent water bodies. The paper presents the analysis of their morphometric properties in comparison to those of the original lake. Although the basins of the new lakes are of natural origin, the currently existing four lakes can be described as quasi-natural.
Ludwik Wołowski and His Contribution to the French Credit Revolution of the 19th Century
Authors: Dobek Rafał
Published: January 2022

Ludwik Wołowski was a Polish November emigrant in France. There, he gained recognition as an outstanding economist, banker and republican politician. The article focuses on the issue of mortgage loan, which is extremely important for Wołowski. It presents both the theoretical concepts of the Pole from 1834, his political activity in the years 1848–1851 aimed at changing the provisions of the mortgage law in France, and finally the moment of co-creation by Wołowski Crédit Foncier, the first modern mortgage bank in France, and the further history of the bank managed by Wołowski, in the board of which he sat until his death in 1876. In the first part, the text presents not only the criticism of the French mortgage system by Wołowski (primarily the so-called secret mortgages), but also his draft changes and the loan and mortgage model proposed by him and the companies that may grant it. In the second, it shows the parliamentary activity of Wołowski, an attempt to force through appropriate changes in the banking law and the reasons for its defeat. In the third, the most extensive, the article describes not only the very moment of establishing Crédit Foncier and the two-year period of management by Wołowski, but also the further, controversial operation of the bank until the second half of the 1870s. All this against the backdrop of the changing French Monarchy of July, the Second Republic and the Second Empire.
Expectations of a Post-Wwii Depression
Authors: Thies Clifford F.
Published: January 2022

The forecast of a Post-WWII depression is contrasted against the vigorous growth that actually happened. Economists called for continued control over the economy to prevent the feared depression. But, in spite of the warning, returning soldiers were rapidly demobilized and the economy decontrolled. While economists dismissed indications toward the end of the war of pent-up demand as unsustainable, pent-up demand played an important role in the smooth transition from a wartime to a peacetime economy. Indicators of pent-up demand included buying plans and the accumulation of liquid assets. This study tracks expectations of a post-war depression of the general public, business and economists during this period. It shows that, in 1947, all three groups expected a recession, if not a depression. Yet, no such thing occurred. In the case of the general public, a time series of expectations is extracted from heterogeneous survey data.
‘Kapitalisten’ and ‘Prywaciarze’. A Comparison of Nationalisation Campaigns in the GDR and Poland
Authors: Flade Falk , Kamosiński Sławomir
Published: January 2022

This paper compares nationalisation campaigns in the German Democratic Republic and socialist Poland, with particular focus on industry. It is based on secondary literature as well as material from both the German and Polish statistical offices. The main finding is a surprising lack of simultaneity in the nationalisation campaigns in the two countries, which possibly had a significant impact on the course of economic transformation in East Germany and in Poland.