bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Socio-Economic Impact of Food Products Produced by Farmers in The Commune of Kouto (Northern Ivory Coast)
Authors:   Department of Geography, Peleforo Gon Coulibaly University in Korhogo, Ivory Coast, SOUMAHORO Soualiho , TAPE Sophie Pulchérie ,   Department of Geography, Peleforo Gon Coulibaly University in Korhogo, Ivory Coast
Published: June 2024

Agriculture is the main income-generating activity of the rural populations of Kouto. The finances generated by the sale of crops contribute to improving the living and working conditions of producers. This reality is seen in the communal area of Kouto, a northern locality in Côte d’Ivoire. This study analyzes the socio-economic benefits of the marketing of producers' food products in the commune of Kouto. The methodology adopted for this work is based on literature review, observation and field survey. Primary data collection tools such as the questionnaire and the interview guide served as a road map to navigate the field of in-vestigation. The results reveal that 94.12% of producers are male, 80.39% are adults, 82.35% are unschooled and 5.88% of the workforce is foreign. Furthermore, this study showed that 54.58% of production is self-consumed compared to 45.42% which is marketed. Also, the marketing of food products is profitable for 14.81% of producers to send their children to school, 11.45% for the purchase and modernization of buildings, 17.51% for the maintenance of village pumps and mutual aid, 15.82% for the ac-quisition of manufactured goods, 8.42% for the wedding celebration, 14.48% for generation celebrations through the sacred wood, 6.73% for cyclical savings commonly called “tontines” and 10.77% for the organization of funerals in Senoufo country. Finally, the benefits of the commercialization of food production are a factor in the empowerment of producers' wives and the financing of future plots of the producers themselves in the commune of Kouto.
Teachers’ Understandings of The Effect of Continuous Professional Development Activities on Improvement of Quality of Teaching and Learning. A Review Study
Authors:   African Centre of Excellence for Innovative Teaching and Learning Mathematics and Science (ACEITLMS), University of Rwanda- College of Education, Rukara Campus, Rwanda, Bunane Jean Baptiste , Abraham Vukama ,   African Centre of Excellence for Innovative Teaching and Learning Mathematics and Science (ACEITLMS), University of Rwanda- College of Education, Rukara Campus, Rwanda
Published: June 2024

This review study includes 30 articles from 2016 and 2024 focusing on teachers ‘perception on the impact of professional development, as headed by the following twofold research questions: What are the teachers’ perceptions on the impact of CPD activities in teaching and learning process? And what is the role of the school administration on the implementation of CPD for teachers? The review indicates that teachers’ professional growth has to be developed if they are ones to lead to school change and innovation in terms of improvement. Researchers in their investigation should not only focus on teachers learning process in schools and left behind the impact of it to the students learning as measurable variable in terms of performance rather they should conduct formative intervention studies that can be assessed empirically and provoke a desirable transformation and includes stakeholders, school leaders and teachers in the whole school as learning environment. Findings from this review suggest that more researches on impact of CPD are needed to deep dig its impact on students learning through teachers’ collaboration, teacher-student collaboration and teacher-school leader collaboration as a smart solution to overcome the challenges that hinder CPD effectiveness.
Design and Development of an Automated PLC Electropneumatic Conveyor System Apparatus: An Industrial Process Simulator for Teaching Electrical/Electronics Technology Courses
Authors:   isabela state university, Santos, MAIE Jeffrey S. , Lumilan, MAIE Erwin B. ,   isabela state university, Cubangbang, MTE John Paul R. ,   isabela state university
Published: June 2024

The study was focused on the design and development of An Industrial Process Simulator for Teaching Electrical/ElectronicTechnology Courses . This project development research tried to achieve the following objectives: (1. To design and construct a valuable, innovative and inexpensive prototype for electrical and electronics instructional equipment; 2. Test the performance of the developed prototype in conformity to its design parameters and operational limitations; and 3. To determine the acceptability of the developed prototypes in terms of its functionality, aesthetics, economy, workability, durability, safety and instructional applicability). The five-point Likert’s scale was used to determine the descriptive meaning of the indicators of the variables used. Furthermore, the Weighted Average Mean (WAM) was used to interpret the equivalent meaning of the data gathered. Evaluation result shows that the project obtained an overall mean of 4.72 which means that the completed project is “HIGHLY ACCEPTABLE” to the evaluators based on the criteria of functionality, aesthetics, durability,workability economy, safety and instructional applicability
Analysis of the Effect of the Tax Electronic System on Tax Paying Behavior
Authors:   Graduate School of Business, Mongolian University of Science and Technology, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia., Urlee Galmandakh , Tumurchudur Sumjidmaa ,   The School of Business Administration and Humanities, Mongolian University of Science and Technology, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia., Buyantur Oyuntungalag ,   The Graduate School of Business, Mongolian University of Science and Technology, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Published: June 2024

In 1992, Mongolia adopted a set of tax laws, defining the rights and obligations of tax authorities and taxpayers, and creating a new legal framework for tax relations. When transitioning to the new tax system, the system for taxpayers to determine self-assessment tax rates was introduced for the first time. Mongolia switched to the "Integrated Tax Administration System" or electronic system in 2021. According to Business registry statistics, a total of 220,000 enterprises were registered in 2023. However, only 35 percent of the registered enterprises did not submit tax reports and did not pay the reported taxes on time, indicating that tax compliance is not satisfactory among enterprises. Unfortunately, little has been studied in our country on tax compliance behavior and the factors affecting it. This study aims to analyze the effect of the tax electronic system on tax compliance behavior. Concerning the framework of the Theories of Reasoned Action and Planned Behavior an intention to pay taxes was considered as a mediating factor in the relationship of the electronic tax system and tax compliance behavior. The analyses confirmed that the tax electronic system influences tax compliance behavior through the intention to comply with taxes. Hence, motivation to increase the use of the tax electronic system may improve tax compliance behavior.
Caracterização de Áreas Queimadas Usando Sensoriamento Remoto no Refúgio Pedra da Andorinha, Sobral/CE
Authors: Perea Ardila Mauricio Alejandro , Sebastian Isaías Muñoz  , Carlos Henrique Sopchaki
Published: June 2024

Os Refúgios de Vida Silvestre, projetados para preservar a sobrevivência de diversas espécies de flora e fauna, enfrentam uma ameaça crescente devido aos incêndios florestais no Brasil. Essa intensificação coloca em risco a integridade dos ambientes que buscam proteger a biodiversidade. Com foco no Refúgio de Vida Silvestre da Pedra da Andorinha, em Sobral/CE, nosso objetivo foi usar dados de sensoriamento remoto VIIRS (2012-2023) e imagens Landsat e Sentinel-2 (2015, 2016, 2020 e 2023) para identificar e delimitar áreas afetadas por incêndios. Índices como NBR e dNBR foram aplicados para avaliar a severidade da cobertura e do uso da terra com base nos dados do MapBiomas. Sessenta e oito focos de calor foram registrados, sendo outubro de 2020 o mês com maior incidência. A cicatriz de 2020, com 860,47 ha queimados, afetando 89,63% da área total do refúgio, acumulou 1011,97 ha queimados, com pelo menos 290,25 ha afetados em três ocasiões. A formação de savana, que compreende 84,74% da paisagem, foi a cobertura natural mais afetada. Esses resultados destacam o envolvimento frequente do refúgio em incêndios florestais, ressaltando a necessidade de estratégias eficazes de prevenção e gerenciamento para garantir a conservação de longo prazo desses valiosos ambientes naturais.
Sistem Pendukung Keputusan Berbasis Website Pemilihan Supplier Bahan Kain Batik Dengan Metode Perbandingan Eksponential (Studi Kasus: Toko Batik Azriel)
Authors: Wulandari Evita Sekar , Seniwati Erni , Astuti Yuli , Sidauruk Acihmah
Published: June 2024

Supplier merupakan suatu aspek yang penting dalam sebuah perusahaan. Perannya tidak dapat dipisahkandari kegiatan bisnis dikarenakan sangat berpengaruh dalam kegiatan operasional sebuah bisnis agar bisnis tersebut bisaberjalan dengan lancar. Namun kenyataannya pada Toko Batik Azriel masih mendapatkan masalah dalam pemilihanSupplier. Sehingga dalam membantu Toko Toko Batik Azriel untuk proses pemilihan Supplier maka dirancang suatusistem pendukung keputusan berbasis website dengan menggunakan Metode Perbandingan Eksponential (MPE), metodeini akan diimplementasikan ke dalam sistem berbasis website dengan bahasa pemrograman PHP dan Relational DatabaseManagement System MySQL. Konsep dasar metode perbandingan eksponential (MPE) yang merupakan bagian dariSistem Pendukung Keputusan (SPK) yang akan menentukan urutan prioritas alternatif keputusan dengan menggunakanbeberapa kriteria. Hal yang sangat penting dalam penerapan Metode Perbandingan Eksponential (MPE) adalah penentuanderajat kepentingan atau bobot dari setiap kriteria yang ditetapkan, karena akan menentukkan nilai akhir dari setiappilihan keputusan. Dengan dibuatnya sistem pendukung keputusan berbasis website dengan Metode PerbandinganEksponential (MPE) ini diharapkan dapat mempermudah dalam melakukan proses pemilihan supplier sesuai dengan yangdiinginkan.
Perancangan Sistem Informasi Berbasis Web Pada D’lofa Laundry Menggunakan Metode Waterfall
Authors: Abhinaya Sigit Kumara Yohanes De Deo , Wahyuni Sri Ngudi
Published: June 2024

Sistem informasi adalah salah satu cara melakukan strukturisasi bisnis sehingga seluruh kegiatan dapat terkendali dan terpantau pemilik bisnis. Pengembangan sistem informasi sangat penting dalam pengembanagn bisnis. Sistem Informasi (SI) memberikan beragam keuntungan yang signifikan bagi organisasi atau perusahaan. Beberapa manfaat pengembangan sistem informasi adalah  optimasi Efisiensi Operasional, Sistem Informasi dapat mengotomatisasi tugas rutin dan proses bisnis, mengurangi kelambatan, kesalahan manusia, dan biaya operasional, sehingga meningkatkan efisiensi keseluruhan operasional. Penelitian ini bertujuan melakukan pengembangan sistem informasi pengelolaan loundri pada Loundri D’Lofa menggunakan metode waterfall. Adapun pengembangan sistem informasi berbasis website dengan menggunakan bahasa pemroghraman HTML dan framework CodeIgniter. Hasil pengembangan sistem informasi ini diuji menggunakan metode pengujian Blakbox sistem dan Whitebox sistem untuk melakukan pengujian debug dan eror sistem
Gambaran Dukungan Orangtua Pada Pengembangan Minat Bakat Anak Tuli Di Jakarta
Authors: Fabiola Elsa , Pradna Paramita Pramesti
Published: June 2024

Dukungan orangtua berperan penting bagi perkembangan potensi anak terlebih anak dengan berkebutuhan khusus seperti Tuli. Walaupun, dengan adanya hambatan pendengaran, anak tuli tetap memiliki beragam minat bakat dalam dirinya. Studi ini bertujuan untuk melakuakn tinjauan literatur semi sistematis tentang gambaran dukungan orang tua bagi perkembangan minat bakat anak Tuli Di Jakarta. Berdasarkan, penelitian relevan yang sudah ada sebelum nya, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman mengenai bagaimana bentuk dukungan yang digunakan oleh orang tua dalam mengembangkan  minat bakat anak. Temuan menunjukan bahwa dukungan orang tua sangat berperan penting bagi perkembangan minat bakat anak, jika orangtua tidak memberikan dukungan dengan baik, maka minat bakat anak akan susah untuk berkembang dan tersalurkan dengan baik. Selain itu, juga ditemukan bahwa beberapa orangtua masih sering melupakan aspek minat bakat dalam diri anak, kebanyakan orangtua mengutamakan aspek potensi lain seperti akadeik, dan perkembangan bahasa nya. Padahal, perkembangan minat bakat juga memberikan berbagai manfaat positif bagi masa depan anak. Oleh karena itu penelitian ini membahas mengenai gambaran bentuk dukungan yang teridiri dari dukungan emosional, dukungan penghargaan, dukungan informasional, dan dukungan instrumental, selaain itu dalam penelitian ini akan menggambarkan bagaimana strategi yang digunakan orangtua sehingga dapat berhasil mengembangkan minat bakat anak Tuli nya. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat memberi pemahaman dan edukasi bagi orangtua untuk dapat mengembangkan minat bakat anak tuli nya dengan memberikan bentuk dukungan yang sesuai
Pengaruh Brand Ambassador dan Iklan Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Pada Produk MS Glow Pekanbaru Cabang Delima
Authors: Aprilia Wika , Mandataris Mandataris
Published: June 2024

Upaya dalam memenangi persaingan pasar perlu dilakukan agar dapat meningkatkan penjualan. Penjualan pada perusahaan dapat dipengaruhi oleh keputusan pembelian. Untuk itu diperlukan strategi yang dapat mempengaruhi perilaku konsumen dalam melakukan keputusan pembelian. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh brand ambassador dan iklan terhadap keputusan pembelian pada produk MS Glow Pekanbaru Cabang Delima. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menyebarkan angket yang dianalisis secara kuantitatif dengan alat bantu SPSS. Adapun sampel pada penelitian ini berjumlah 100 responden yang ditentukan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Dari analisis yang telah dilakukan diperoleh hasil penelitian bahwa brand ambassador (X1) berpengaruh secara signifikan dan positif terhadap keputusan pembelian (Y), iklan (X2) tidak memiliki pengaruh terhadap keputusan pembelian (Y) serta brand ambassador (X1) dan iklan (X2) berpengaruh secara signifikan dan simultan terhadap keputusan pembelian (Y) pada produk MS Glow Pekanbaru Cabang Delima
Quality Experience: Co-Creation and Excellent Service Juragan 99 Trans Bus Land Transportation Services With Currency Moderation
Authors: Munawaroh Syarifah , Bintarti Surya , Rachman Taufiq , Heruwanto Joni , Ali Maskuri Muh.
Published: June 2024

Transportation can never be separated from one's daily life, such as going to school, office, market or other distant places. Transportation is divided into three namely, land, sea and air transportation. In Indonesia, land transportation is more widely used than air and sea transportation. Land transportation such as buses, private cars and trains. Bus is a means of land transportation that is ranked third most often used. This study aims to test product variations (co-creation) and service quality (service excellent) against the quality of experience (quality experience) with price (currency) as moderation. The number of respondents in this study was 108 respondents who had used Juragan 99 Trans Bus transportation services in the Bekasi Regency area. This population collection is non-probality sampling and the respondent retrieval technique is purposive sampling. This research was processed using regression techniques, where the processing used SmartPLS 3 software. This research proves 1) The variety of products (co-creation) offered by the Juragan 99 Trans Bus has an effect on the high quality of experience. 2) The quality of service (service excellent) offered by the Juragan 99 Trans Bus influences the high quality of experience (quality experience). 3) Product variations (co-creation) which are moderated by price (currency) influence the high quality of experience. 4) Quality of service (service excellent) which is moderated by price (currency) influences the high quality of experience (quality experience).
Financial Aspects Of Biogas Production From Livestock Waste To Meet Household Energy Needs
Authors: Singgih Bambang , Triono Budi , Rusdi Nurul , Ulinuhayani Muhammad , Nurhidayat Permana , Soedarjo Muchdar
Published: June 2024

The livestock sector has significant potential to contribute to methane emissions, which are the second largest after CO2, accounting for 13% of total emissions. One solution to control methane emissions is the use of biogas reactors. This study aims to assess the financial aspects of biogas production from livestock waste to meet household energy needs and to determine its financial feasibility. The research employs a qualitative approach that emphasizes flexibility, direct interaction with research subjects, and sensitive interpretation of data context. Data collection was conducted through a literature review by examining and analyzing literature related to the research topic. The literature study results indicate that constructing biogas reactors using cow dung has viable potential for development, especially as a replacement for LPG. However, replacing wood fuel depends highly on the local price of firewood. This study recommends that, for the development of biogas from cattle farm waste to replace firewood, interest subsidies or other assistance are needed to make the development feasible. Additionally, to encourage public interest in developing biogas reactors for cattle farm waste, financial incentives in the form of interest subsidies through program loans are necessary. Developing biogas reactors from cattle farm waste for household energy needs is economically viable, especially as a substitute for LPG, but requires additional support such as interest subsidies to replace firewood. Financial incentives are essential to attract public interest in developing these biogas reactors.
Strategi Public Relations Perusahaan X dalam Menangani Permasalahan Eksternal yang Terjadi di Media Sosial
Authors: Nataniela Sherlyn , Nicholas Huwae George
Published: June 2024

Latar Belakang: Perusahaan X menggunakan media sosial dalam publikasi dan penyampaian informasi. Namun, akun X mengunggah konten X yang dicampur es krim Y di depan toko Y yang waralabanya bersertifikasi halal.
 
Tujuan: Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menjelaskan strategi public relations Perusahaan X dalam menangani Permasalahan Eksternal yang terjadi di Media Sosial dengan Studi Kasus Konten X dan Y Tahun 2023.
Metode: Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kualitatif deskriptif. Data diperoleh melalui dokumentasi dan wawancara mendalam dengan Staff Digital Marketing Cocktail.
Hasil: Hasil menunjukan bahwa Digital Marketing memiliki hasil penelitian dengan menggunakan Komunikasi Eksternal dimana dalam Komunikasi Eksternal terdapat dua saluran arah yaitu, Komunikasi dari Organisasi ke Khalayak, Komunikasi yang dilakukan pihak Perusahaan X kepada khalayak dan Komunikasi dari Khalayak ke Organisasi, Komunikasi yang dilakukan khalayak kepada Perusahaan X. Setelah penyelesaian dilakukan melalui Komunikasi Eksternal, dilakukannya Strategi Komunikasi untuk meningkatkan Corporate Image melalui tiga tujuan strategi komunikasi yaitu, to secure understanding, dengan memastikan publik atau customer mengerti pesan yang disampaikan.
Kesimpulan: to establish acceptance, merupakan cara yang digunakan agar publik atau customer dapat menerima dan mengerti makna dan pesan yang disampaikan. Terakhir adalah to motivate action, dimana pesan yang diterima benar-benar tersampaikan ke publik atau customer secara baik.
Técnica de inteligencia artificial para la selección de concreto en construcciones residenciales. Una revisión sistemática
Authors: Zambrano Salazar Luis Leonardo , Gamboa López Enma Katherine
Published: June 2024

La selección de los materiales de construcción en obras residenciales es clave para garantizar la durabilidad y calidad de la obra, así como seguridad de los usuarios. El proceso de selección antes se basaba en rigurosos ensayos que resultaban costosos, lentos e imprecisos, pero con la tecnología y el avance de la informática han mejorado; por lo tanto, el objetivo de la presente investigación fue describir las técnicas de inteligencia artificial existente para la selección del concreto usado en construcciones residenciales. Para ello se llevó a cabo una revisión de 240 artículos en base de datos como Scopus, Scielo, Latindex y Google académico, sobre técnicas de machine learning, deep learning, redes neuronales y Big data, de los cuales se seleccionaron 24 de los artículos más relevantes en función de los criterios de inclusión y calidad. Los resultados de la revisión muestran que los métodos de selección basados en inteligencia artificial han sido eficientes para la evaluación de la calidad del concreto, por lo que se pueden usar para la elección de materiales resistente a los riesgos más predominantes como son los incendios, terremotos y huracanes.
El Marco Legal de la Violencia Familiar en Ecuador: Análisis y Efectividad
Authors: Klinger Rodríguez Betty Yolanda
Published: June 2024

La violencia familiar en Ecuador representa un desafío significativo que afecta a miles de personas, principalmente mujeres. Este artículo de revisión analiza el marco legal ecuatoriano sobre la violencia familiar, evaluando su evolución histórica, su efectividad actual y los desafíos en su implementación. Desde la promulgación de la Ley Contra la Violencia a la Mujer y la Familia en 1995 hasta las reformas del Código Penal en 2014, Ecuador ha realizado avances legislativos importantes. Sin embargo, a pesar de estas reformas, la violencia familiar sigue siendo prevalente y la efectividad del sistema legal se ve limitada por problemas en la aplicación y recursos insuficientes. El análisis estadístico revela un aumento en las denuncias, lo que puede reflejar una mayor confianza en el sistema, pero también subraya una alta incidencia de violencia familiar. Estudios de caso y entrevistas destacan las dificultades que enfrentan las víctimas en el acceso a la justicia, incluyendo la revictimización y las demoras en la emisión de medidas de protección. La evaluación de las políticas públicas muestra que, aunque hay programas prometedores de prevención y apoyo a las víctimas, su efectividad varía significativamente entre regiones. Este artículo propone fortalecer la capacitación de los funcionarios judiciales, mejorar la coordinación interinstitucional y continuar con las campañas de sensibilización para cambiar las actitudes culturales hacia la violencia familiar.
Relations among environmental and financial performance of resource usage in enterprises: Literature review
Authors: Milenković Anđela , Krstić Bojan , Jovanović-Vujatović Milica
Published: June 2024

The mutual influence and interdependence of financial performance (FP) of resource usage and environmental performance (EP) is an important research area, which has particularly occupied the attention of researchers in the last decade. Increasing requirements for environmental protection, principles of circular economy and regenerative economy create an obligation for the enterprise management regarding efficient and effective management of environmental aspects of business with the aim of sustainability and improvement of EP. In addition, stakeholders of the enterprise are interested in the economic effects of implemented environmental actions on FP. The results of the research dealing with the relations between different indicators of EP and FP of resource use are mixed. Bearing in mind the above, the purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of research on the impact of EP on the FP of resource use, FP of resource use on EP and the interdependence of FP of resource use and EP.
Construction site layout planning considering travelling distance cost and safety relationships using a genetic algorithm technique
Authors: Abdelalim Ahmed , Kenawy Ahmed , Aman Khaled
Published: June 2024

Efficient planning for construction site layout is pivotal for the successful execution of a project, contributing to enhanced productivity and safety on the site. This involves identifying temporary structures or facilities required to support construction activities, choosing their size and arrangement, and strategic placing within the available space on the site. The problem of site layout planning is a challenging issue in combinatorial optimization, especially as it involves multiple objectives. Its complexity escalates with the increasing number of facilities and constraints. While existing research has proposed various analytical, heuristic, and meta-heuristic approaches to address this problem, many prior studies focused on a limited number of facilities, emphasizing the minimization of travelling distances while neglecting other pertinent cost-related and decision-making factors. This study aims to create practical and effective solutions for site layout by employing a realistic representation that takes into account not just travelling distance but also considers cost and safety relationships. A model for optimization with two objective functions has been developed to minimize travelling distance between facilities in order to minimize cost functions derived from various factors such as construction costs associated with different facility locations and transportation costs between locations, as well as to minimize risks based on the quantitative flow matrix and distance between facilities, as increasing in the frequency of interaction flow between facilities results in a higher probability of collision. In this research, a genetic algorithm (GA) is used as a heuristic optimization approach. A case study was applied to the model to highlight the benefits of the suggested approach, illustrating its effectiveness and comprehensive solutions for construction site layout planning.
The importance of problem-solving competencies in achieving customer satisfaction
Authors: Antić Zorana , Bogetić Srđan
Published: June 2024

In today's business environment, in which customer satisfaction plays a crucial role in an organization's ability to survive, problem-solving competencies are considered essential, since they enable organizations to efficiently identify, analyse and solve problems that could have an impact on the customer experience. It is no longer enough for employees in direct contact with customers just to be kind and helpful, as today it is necessary for them to respond quickly and efficiently to challenges that affect customer satisfaction. Problem-solving competencies are widely regarded as a fundamental skill necessary for success in the modern world and are of key importance for all business activities, particularly in customer relations. Along with the primary objective of satisfying customers, successful problem-solving also fulfils the requirements and principles of quality standards linked to improvements, resulting in a better quality of products and services, more efficient business processes, greater customer trust and enhanced business reputation. The authors of this paper point to the issue of insufficient employee motivation in the area of developing problem-solving competencies. There are several reasons for this attitude among employees: the accelerated development of digital technologies encourages the acquisition of digital skills; employees have insufficient awareness of the advantages of gaining competencies; managers lack understanding of the benefits of problem-solving competencies; and young people encounter insufficient opportunities to acquire problem-solving skills within their formal education.
Excavator downtime's differences between types and comparison with other mining equipment
Authors: Spasojević-Brkić Vesna , Mihajlović Ivan , Misita Mirjana , Perišić Martina , Janev Nemanja
Published: June 2024

Mining equipment working time is critical for ensuring output and fulfilling mining project deadlines. In order to find trends and possible downtime minimization measures, this article analyses numerous types of excavators, dump trucks, loaders, backhoe loaders, bucket wheel excavators, and surface-top hammer drill rigs in Serbian mining sites. The study collects data on mechanical, electrical, technological, organizational, abuse and meteorological downtimes types with the aim to highlight efficient ways for minimizing non-operational periods, hence improving the overall productivity and safety of mining operations in the industry. Special emphasis is put on excavators whose role in the mining industry is pivotal, directly impacting project timelines and financial outcomes. The methodology includes analysing the duration and implications of different downtime categories. Collected data showed non-parametric features, according to the descriptive statistics. To compare the data, the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U-test is implemented. The results of the research showed that, in most cases, there is a difference in the duration of downtimes between different categories of excavators' downtimes. However, a comparison between excavator downtimes and other machinery downtimes has not shown any statistically significant differences. This analysis aims to contribute to the optimisation of mining equipment usage, offering valuable insights for mining industry stakeholders.
Beers criteria: An up-to-date tool for detecting inappropriate prescription in elderly
Authors: Stojanović Marko , Banjanin Nikolina
Published: June 2024

Potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) are drugs that can cause significant unnecessary harm to patients. Prescribing PIM can cause significant healthcare problems, especially if there is a safer, similar, or even more effective alternative for the treatment. They are the cause of significant health issues that lead to increased treatment costs and reduced life quality. The main problem when it comes to treating geriatric population is a lack of specific guidelines for the treatment. This is mainly because clinical trials which are the main pillars of clinical guidelines are usually aimed at people aged 18 to 65, leaving the geriatric population aside. For this reason, as well as to reduce the prescription of PIM in the geriatric population many guidelines have been created, among which the AGS Beers criteria were the first and have remained the leading and most comprehensive tool for this purpose. Since 1991, the Beers criteria have gone through several updates and changes in format, and in 2012 they came under control of the American Geriatric Society. The constant updates and work on these guidelines saved them the top position, compared to other guidelines in this field. Taking all this into consideration, it is imperative for every clinician who works with geriatric patients to be familiar with these guidelines and to utilize them properly as explained.
Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp: A case report
Authors: Cakić Jelena , Tanasilović Srđan , Vuković Jelena , Živanović Dubravka
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is rare inflammatory dermatosis of unknown etiology, which mainly affects the scalp. The condition is characterized by sterile pustules, often with secondary bacterial colonization, erosions and crusts which lead to scarring alopecia. EPDS occurs in the elderly, more frequently in women. Patient report: A 55-year-old Caucasian female presented with a large atrophic erythematous plaque on the scalp, coated with pustules on the sides and covered with thick crusts and erosions. The patient reported a history of painless, moderately pruritic, enlarging lesions during three months prior to the admission to our department. She had no history of trauma, excessive sun exposure or some medical or cosmetic treatment (topical and systemic). Serological and immunologic tests (Hepatitis B and C, HIV; antinuclear antibodies, ANA) were negative. Fungal cultures were negative. Bacterial cultures grew Staphylococcus aureus. A scalp biopsy revealed polymorphous inflammatory infiltrate in the dermis of neutrophils, lymphocytes and plasma cells. Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) stain was negative. Direct immunofluorescence test was negative. Treatment with an oral antibiotic (rimfapicine) and potent topical corticosteroids led to marked and quick improvement but with remaining scarring alopecia. Conclusion: EPDS is a diagnosis of exclusion, based on clinical presentation, disease course and histopathological findings. It is necessary to exclude other differential diagnoses - autoimmune bullous disorders, malignancies, neutrophilic dermatoses, bacterial and fungal infections. A prompt diagnosis and treatment will reduce scarring.
Liquid biopsy as a source of potential biomarkers for checkpoint inhibitor treatment in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kontić Milica , Marković Filip
Published: June 2024

Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality around the world. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment and improved clinical outcomes of non-smallcell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. However, while some patients have good response to ICI others are refractory to therapy or have life threatening adverse reactions. There are still no good strategies to identify responders to ICIs. That is why personalization of ICI therapy based on a patient's unique genomic profile represents an attractive strategy to improve NSCLC treatment. There are continuous efforts to find predictive biomarkers to identify patients who are likely to respond to ICIs. In turn, these strategies are required to spare patients the time, expenses, and toxicity while trying out therapies from which they will not derive any benefit. Based on this, non-invasive liquid biopsy has the potential to help identify the patients who may respond to ICI. Liquid biopsy derived circulatory tumor DNA, circulatory tumor cells, and immune cell-based biomarkers could be new biomarkers that will guide clinical decisions for checkpoint inhibitor treatment in NSCLC. Furthermore, these biomarkers can serve for monitoring the treatment response and unraveling the mechanisms of resistance.
Risk factors in the occurrence of cholelithiasis in children and adolescents: A single-center experience
Authors: Radlović Vladimir , Jovanović Branislav , Leković Zoran , Dučić Siniša , Radulović Spasoje , Đurićić Goran , Pavićević Polina , Janković Jovana , Nikolić Dejan , Radlović Nedeljko
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Cholelithiasis is etiopathogenetically very heterogeneous and, in terms of frequency, a rare disease in the period of growth and development. The aim of the study was to analyze risk factors for the occurrence of cholelithiasis in that period of life. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included 80 children and adolescents, 50 females and 30 males, aged 4-18 (14±5.55) years, with symptomatic cholelithiasis who were operated on at the University Children's Hospital in Belgrade in the period from 2000 to 2016. The diagnosis of the disease was based on ultrasound findings. Data on risk factors for the development of biliary calculosis were obtained from medical history. Results: Predisposing risk factors for cholelithiasis were verified in 46 (57.5 %) patients. One risk factor was identified in 34 patients, two risk factors were identified in 10 patients, three risk factors were found in two patients, while in others risk factors were not identified. Family predisposition to cholelithiasis was registered in 28 (35%) patients, obesity in 10 (12.5%), pre-obesity in nine, rapid weight loss in four, hereditary hemolytic disease in two, and premature birth combined with parenteral nutrition and sepsis as a complication were found in two patients. Apart from those who were born prematurely, another 10 patients had combined risk factors for cholelithiasis, six patients had family predisposition and obesity, and four patients had obesity and self-initiated rapid weight loss program. Conclusion: According to our research, the most common risk factors for cholelithiasis in children and adolescents are family predisposition and excess body weight. Most of the patients were adolescents and females.
The prognostic significance of the age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index in the prediction of postoperative outcome after liver resection for colorectal cancer metastases
Authors: Đorđić Anastasia , Bogdanović Aleksandar , Zdujić Predrag , Đinđić Uroš , Basarić Dragan , Dugalić Vladimir
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The prognostic value of the age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) for patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) undergoing liver resection is still unclear. The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of ACCI in the prediction of shortand longterm outcomes after liver resection in patients with CRLM. Material and methods: Data related to 101 patients who underwent liver resection for CRLM at the University Clinic for Digestive Surgery between October 2019 and October 2022 were analyzed in this cohort retrospective study. ACCI was determined according to an established point scale. Patients were further divided into two groups: group 1, ACCI <7, and group 2, ACCI ≥7. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the length of postoperative ICU stay (p=0.9670), semi-ICU stay (p=0.627), and hospital stay (p=0.243). Overall morbidity was higher in group 1 (60%) than in group 2 (39.3), p=0.042, while major morbidity (grade ≥3) was similar between groups, p=0.127. Biliary fistula was more common in group 1 compared to group 2 (12.5% vs 1.6%), p=0.035. In-hospital mortality, 30-day, and 90-day mortality were similar between the study groups (p=1; p=0.517 and p=0.517). During the follow-up period, recurrence was registered in 48.5% of patients. There was no difference in recurrence-free survival between groups, p=0.430. The overall survival was similar between the groups, p=0.141. Conclusion: ACCI can be used to predict postoperative morbidity after liver resection for CRLM. The postoperative mortality and recurrence-free survival are similar regardless of age and comorbidity.
Clinical characteristics and short-term outcomes of neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy treated with therapeutic hypothermia: A single-center experience from Serbia
Authors: Međo Biljana , Karličić Marija , Jovandarić Miljana , Atanasković-Marković Marina , Raus Misela , Nikolić Dimitrije , Nikolić Dejan
Published: June 2024

Aim: This study aimed to report clinical characteristics and short-term outcomes of neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) treated with hypothermia. Furthermore, we analyzed the factors associated with short-term outcomes. Material and Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective study including neonates with HIE treated with hypothermia who survived hospital discharge. The short-term outcomes included normal or abnormal neurological examination findings on discharge. Results: Forty-five neonates with HIE treated with hypothermia were identified. Median Apgar score at 1 minute was 3 (range 0-7), at 5 minutes it was 5 (range 1-10), while the median blood pH in the first postnatal hour was 6.94 (range 6.8-7.2). On admission, there were more neonates with moderate encephalopathy than those with severe encephalopathy according to the modified Sarnat classification (77.8% vs. 22.2%, p<0.001). Twelve (26.7%) neonates presented with complications during hypothermia. The most common complications were coagulopathy presented in 33.3% of cases and arterial hypotension presented in 25% of cases. Twenty-nine (64.44%) neonates had normal neurological examination, whereas 16 (35.56%) presented with abnormal neurological examination findings at discharge (0.006). Twenty-four (53.3%) neonates were discharged from hospital without any therapy. According to univariate analysis, abnormal neurological examination findings on discharge were significantly associated with pH < 7 (p=0.009), 5-minute Apgar score ≤ 5 (p=0.010), and the presence of complications during hypothermia (p=0.013). According to multivariate analysis, abnormal neurological examination findings on discharge were significantly associated with pH < 7 (p=0.030) and the presence of complications (p=0.035). Conclusion: Our results during the first five years of experience with hypothermia support the beneficial effect of hypothermia in neonates with HIE.
The use of tocilizumab in severe COVID-19: A comprehensive review
Authors: Milošević Ivana , Beronja Branko
Published: June 2024

This review focuses on the therapeutic application of Tocilizumab (TCZ) in the treatment of COVID-19, specifically exploring its mechanisms, safety aspects, clinical efficacy, dosing strategies, and outcomes in the Serbian context. TCZ, acting as an IL-6 receptor inhibitor, mitigates the cytokine storm observed in severe cases, leveraging its structure and pharmacokinetics. While the overall safety profile indicates good tolerability, there are subtle concerns regarding the occurrence of rare complications in critically ill patients. Clinical trials, with certain variations, emphasize the need for careful interpretation of indications and patient selection for TCZ therapy. Current protocols in place in the Republic of Serbia recommend the use of TCZ at a dose of 8 mg/kg body weight based on clinical parameters and inflammation markers, primarily IL-6 levels. Literature review suggests that during TCZ shortages, dosing may be adjusted to 400 mg as a single dose in the treatment of severe COVID-19. The optimal timing for initiating therapy coincides with the phase of increased inflammation (7-10 days after symptom onset), with an emphasis on patient selection based on biomarkers, disease severity, and the need for respiratory support. Combining TCZ with corticosteroids shows reduced mortality, necessitating cautious dosing. Potential benefits arise from combining TCZ with remdesivir, NSAIDs, and anticoagulants, requiring careful dosing and monitoring. Retrospective studies in Serbia report positive outcomes, highlighting the potential of TCZ in treating severe cases. In summary, TCZ shows promising results in the treatment of COVID-19, necessitating further research and careful patient monitoring, especially in resource-limited settings.
Comparison of short-term maternal and neonatal outcomes between elective and emergent Cesarean section: A single center experience
Authors: Lukić Relja , Lazić-Mitrović Tanja , Rovčanin Marija , Tomić Ana , Zamurović Milena
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aim: Increased rates of Cesarean section (CS) and subsequent short-term and long-term maternal complications (MC) and neonatal complications (NC) have been reported. The aim of this study was to compare short-term MC and NC between elective and emergent CS. Material and Methods: Data from medical records of pregnant women who had undergone CS at Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic "Narodni front" were retrospectively collected. The inclusion criteria were as follows: low-risk, term monofetal pregnancies with obstetrical CS-indications and other non-life-threatening maternal conditions (ophthalmological, orthopedic, psychiatric, lower genital-tract infections). Short-term MC were the following: surgical complications, inflammatory syndrome, the need for blood transfusion, and hospital stay ≥5 days. NC were as follows: respiratory morbidity, asphyxia, sepsis, injuries/lacerations, admission to neonatal intensive-care-unit, hospital stay >4 days. Results: We included 1056 singleton pregnancies. Mean age was 32.63±5.38 years, mainly primipara 566 (53.6%). Of all CS, 774 (73%) were performed emergently. Cephalopelvic disproportion/fetal macrosomia and other CS indications carried a significantly high risk for emergent CS (OR=3.943, 95%CI 2.036-6.591; OR=7.560, 95%CI 3.994-8.327, respectively). Regardless of the urgency of CS there were no significant differences in the frequency of MC. Neonatal sepsis was significantly higher after emergent CS (p=0.027), with a two-times greater risk for its development (OR=2.070, 95% CI 1.072-3.997). There were no fatal maternal/neonatal outcomes and no need for additional care. Conclusion: There were no notable disparities in MC and NC among the individuals who had undergone emergent and elective CS. Neonates born by means of emergent CS had a higher risk of developing neonatal sepsis. Indications for CS had a greater impact on short-term maternal and fetal outcomes than the type of CS.
The impact of chronic viral hepatitis on COVID-19: Clinical course and risk factors for poor outcome
Authors: Mitrović Nikola , Nikolić Nataša , Filipović Ana , Vujović Ankica , Karić Uroš , Šabanović Miloš , Milošević Ivana
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aim: The impact of chronic viral hepatitis on COVID-19 has not been fully clarified yet. The aim of this paper was to analyze the clinical features, course and outcome of COVID-19 in patients with chronic viral hepatitis and to determine the risk factors for unfavorable outcome. Methods: A case-control study was conducted in which the case group included patients with chronic viral hepatitis suffering from COVID-19, while the control group included patients with chronic liver diseases of other etiologies; the patients were matched according to the stage of the liver disease. All subjects were treated at the Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases in Belgrade from 1st March 2020 to 1st March 1 2022. Results: Seventy-five patients with chronic liver diseases suffering from COVID-19 were analyzed - 25 with chronic viral hepatitis (13 HBV, 12 HCV) - case group, and 50 in the control group. In the case group, there were more males (76% vs. 72%) and younger patients (53.5±15.1 vs. 57.9±13.4 years), whereas in the control group there were more overweight patients (36% vs. 20%). In relation to comorbidities, there were more subjects with endocrinological diseases in the control group. The groups did not differ in terms of the severity of clinical features and the outcome of COVID-19. Risk factors for severe form of COVID-19 and lethal outcome were: cirrhosis, active liver disease, high fever, dyspnea, whereas vaccination was a protective factor against COVID-19. Conclusion: The course and outcome of COVID-19 is similar in people with chronic liver diseases. Risk factors for poor outcome include advanced liver disease and dyspnea, while vaccination is a protective factor.
Type 1 diabetes: Prevention and screening in focus
Authors: Miličić Tanja , Jotić Aleksandra , Lukić Ljiljana , Maćešić Marija , Stanarčić Jelena , Stoiljković Milica , Milovančević Mina , Rafailović Đurđa , Božović Aleksandra , Radisavljević Nina , Lalić Nebojša
Published: June 2024

It has been reported that the prevalence of type 1 diabetes (T1D) is increasing worldwide. Moreover, patients with T1D have a significant reduction in life expectancy, compared to their nondiabetic peers. In that context, prevention of T1D is a burning issue, having in mind multiple unsuccessful attempts in the past 50 years. However, recently there has been a turning point in this investigational area when it was shown that it is possible to delay T1D with immunotherapy in people with a high risk for T1D, in stage 2 of prediabetes. Teplizumab, a humanized IgG1 kappa CD3-directed monoclonal antibody modifies disease progression from stage 2 to overt T1D by preserving b-cell function. In future, T1D prevention studies should include combining immunomodulatory methods through the depletion of diabetogenic cells, strengthening regulatory cells, and islet regeneration, with a focus on the time of the onset of therapy and the duration of treatment. Primary prevention studies should start earlier, and secondary prevention studies should include more people at risk, which implies screening for T1D in the general population. People with immune markers of risk for T1D can now live without diabetes or with low metabolic risk for many years, which will allow for a reduction in acute and chronic complications of T1D and potentially a final cure. This review presents data from the newest primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of T1D, as well as novelties in diagnostics, predominantly screening, and therapy of T1D.