bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pemanfaatan Bottom Ash Sebagai Bahan Substitusi Agregat Halus Terhadap Kekuatan Beton
Authors: Posedung Agnes Claudia , Phengkarsa Frans , Sandy Desi
Published: May 2021

Bottom ash merupakan hasil sisa pembakaran batu bara yang dapat bermanfaat untuk pemanfaatan penyusun campuran beton. Pada penelitian ini bottom ash digunakan sebagai bahan substitusi agregat halus dalam pembuatan beton. Bottom ash memiliki ukuran butir lebih besar dan lebih berat dengan karakteristik berwarna abu-abu gelap. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui kekuatan beton yang menggunakan bottom ash sebagai bahan substitusi agregat halus. Persentase penggunaan bottom ash sebagai bahan substitusi agregat halus sebesar 0%, 25% dan 35%. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Laboratorium Teknologi Bahan Universitas Kristen Indonesia Paulus  Benda uji yang digunakan berupa silinder ukuran diameter 15 cm dan tinggi 30 cm  sebanyak 36 buah. Pengujian yang dilakukan berupa pengujian kuat tekan, uji  kuat tarik belah dan uji modulus elastisitas dengan mutu beton  rencana 30 MPa. Dari hasil penelitian, untuk hasil uji kuat tekan diperoleh variasi bottom ash optimum pada penggunaan bottom ash 35% dengan kuat tekan sebesar 33,764 MPa pada umur 28 hari, pengujian kuat tarik belah diperoleh variasi bottom ash optimum pada penggunaan bottom ash 35% dengan kuat tarik belah sebesar 3,253 MPa pada umur 28 hari sedangkan nilai modulus elastisitas tertinggi diperoleh pada penambahan bottom  ash 35% yaitu sebesar 27332.0255 Mpa. Dan diperoleh persentase hubungan kuat tarik belah untuk variasi bottom ash  0%, 25% dan 35% berturut-turut sebesar 8,007%, 8,983% dan 9,635% dari kuat tekan. Nilai tersebut memenuhi atau sesuai dengan yang ditentukan yaitu rata-rata berkisar antara 7% hingga 11% dari kuat tekannya dengan rata-rata berkisar 9 %. Dari variasi bottom ash yaitu 0%, 25% dan 35% pada benda uji silinder , yang mencapai f’c 30 Mpa adalah bottom ash dengan variasi 35% dan dapat digunakan sebagai bahan substitusi agregat halus.
Karakteristik Campuran Laston Lapis Antara Yang Menggunakan Batu Sungai Balebo Kecamatan Masamba
Authors: Lukin Deli , Alpius  , Elizabeth
Published: May 2021

Pada penelitian ini, agregat yang digunakan dalam campuran laston lapis antara yaitu agregat yang berasal dari sungaii Balebo kecamatan Masamba sehingga perlu diuji karakteristik agregatnya. Metode yang digunakan daIam peneIitian ini antara Iain menguji karakteristik agregat kasar, agregat  haIus, aspal dan fiIIer dan harus memenuhi persyaratan yang mengacu pada spesifikasi umum Bina Marga 2018 (Revisi 6) Departemen Umum Republik Indonesia dan standard pengujian SNI, untuk itu dilakukan beberapa pengujian karakteristik sebelum melakukan rancangan komposisi campuran laston lapis antara untuk pembuatan benda uji campuran laston lapis antara. Setelah itu benda uji akan di uji Marshall untuk mengetahui karakteristik dari campuran laston lapis antara tersebut. Nilai Stabilitas Marshall sisa didapatkan melalui pengujian Marshall Imertion yang menggunakan kadar aspal optimum (KAO) dari hasil pengujian Marshall. Hasil penelitian karakteristik bahan parkerasan yang digunakan telah memenuhi persyaratan yang mengacu pada spesifikasi umum Bina Marga 2018 melalui hasil penelitian ini memperlihatkan bahwa agregat sungai balebo kecamatan masamba dapat digunakan sebagai bahan lapisan perkerasan jalan campuran laston lapis antara. Karakteristik campuran laston lapis antara didapatkan melalui pengujian Marshall  dengan kadar aspal 5,00%, 5,50%, 6,00%, 6,50% , 7,00%. Pada kadar aspal optimum 6,00 % didapatkan nilai Stabilitas Marshall Sisa yaitu 96,87 % yang telah IoIos persyaratan yaitu ≥90 %.
Estimation of Heavy Metals and Associated Health Risk in Selected Vegetables Grown in Peri-Urban Areas of Multan and Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Authors: Wadood Syed Abdul , Sharif Mian Kamran , Ashraf Muhammad Nadeem , Ejaz Rebia , Kosar Ghazala , Azeem Muhammad , Murtaza Ghulam
Published: May 2021

Food security is a serious issue in developing countries like Pakistan because of ever-increasing population. To feed the hunger population, safe and nutritious vegetables are growing concern as they are being polluted by heavy metals. The present study was conducted to investigate the concentration    of heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) in highly consumed vegetable collected from peri-urban markets of Rawalpindi and Multan region. Health risk associated with the consumption of these vegetables in term of estimated  daily intake of metals (EDIM) and health risk index (HRI) was also evaluated among local consumers. Results showed that mean values of cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in all vegetable samples from both region were exceeding the respective MAL set by FAO/WHO. Estimated daily intake of heavy metals was found below than the permissible limit. EDIM showed following decreasing trend Fe > Zn > Mn > Ni > Pb > Cr and Cd, respectively. The health risk index (HRI) for all heavy metals were less than    the threshold level (1), indicating no significant threat to the local population through the consumption  of these vegetables.
Seasonal Variation in Microbial Contamination of Various Food Items in Karachi
Authors: Aqeel Afsheen , Abbas Tanveer , Mirani Zulfiqar Ali , Naveed Tooba , Ahmed Niaz , Basit Abdul
Published: May 2021

The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of seasonal variation on the microbiological quality of various food items collected from Karachi, Pakistan. A total of two thousand food samples were collected during summer, winter, spring, and autumn season and analyzed for total bacterial count (TBC), total Califarm count (TCC), Fecal califarm count (FCC), mould and yeast count (MYC) and Salmanella spp. The highest percentage of unfit samples was recorded during summer i.e. 25.95%, while the lowest value 11.24% and samples were found unfit in terms of total bacterial count during winter. Furthermore, 24.25% of samples were unsatisfactory during the autumn season followed by spring i.e. 14.54%. Moreover, findings further demonstrated that MYC was observed higher in all seasons as compared to TBC. None of the samples was found positive for Salmanella spp.
Evaluation of Phyllanthus niruri L. from Malaysia for In-vitro Anti-Urolithiatic Properties by Different Solvent Extraction
Authors: Gul Muhammad Tayyab , Muhammad Norhayati , Pauzi Aslia Natasha , Bakar Mohd Fadzelly Abu , Talip Balkis A. , Abdullah Norazlin , Abdul Rahim Nur Fazira , Syukriah Wan Nur Ain , Marzuki Wan , Din Laily B. , Ibrahim Nazlina
Published: May 2021

The Phyllanthus niruri is traditionally used for curing of kidney disorders and urinary stones in Malaysia. Hence the current work was aimed to evaluate the effect of different solvents extract (n- hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol and water) of P. niruri for in vitro anti-urolithiatic properties in terms of inhibition activity on CaOx by using the rate of CaOx aggregation assay and dissolution of calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal by using titrimetry method. Cystone was used as positive control. The effects of cystone on slope of nucleation and aggregation as well as growth of CaOx were evaluated spectrophotometrically. The highest yield percentage of P.niruri was occupied by methanol (5.74 %). The maximum inhibition against aggregation of CaOx crystals was also occupied by methanol (66.67 % ± 1.61) and was comprised with alkaloid, steroid, terpenoid and tannin. Dissolution effect on calcium oxalate crystals indicates that the aqueous extracts of P. niruri was found to be more effective in dissolution of CaOx with 63.33 %   ± 1.44. P. niruri significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited the slope of nucleation and aggregation of CaOx crystallization, and reduced the crystal density. The results of the present study confirmed that P. niruri leaves can be used as remedial mediator for urolithiasis. However, further studies are required for isolation and identification of active constituents and their in-vivo confirmation.
THE SITUATION IN CENTRAL ARABIA AT THE END OF THE 19TH CENTURY AND IN THE BEGINNING OF THE 20TH CENTURY: THE EMIRATE OF JABAL SHAMMAR
Authors: GASPARYAN ARAM
Published: May 2021

From the second half of the 19th century when Muhammad Ali’s Egyptian troops left Central Arabia а serious competition started in this region for political influence between ruling families, especially between the Houses of Rasheed, Saud and Al Sabah. Simultaneously, the role of the external factor in the Arabian Peninsula on the internal political processes also increased, as well as the relations between the houses.
During the last decade in the 19th century Jabal Shammar became independent from Nejd thanks to the Rasheedi prudent and far-sighted policy. The Al-Rasheed managed to strengthen their power in Jabal Shammar and pursue an independent foreign, domestic policy from Riyadh thereby challenging the dominance of the region and even claiming the areas of Nejd. During the power of Muhammad Abdallah al-Rashīd, Jabal Shammar became the most influential and powerful emirate in Central Arabia. However, the further events taken place in the region, weakened Jabal Shammar which was finally conquered by the House of Saud in 1921.
THE ILLUSTRATION OF ARMENIAN-EGYPTIAN RELATIONS IN THE PAGES OF ARABIC SUPPLEMENT OF DAILY NEWSPAPER “AREV” (1991-2009)
Authors: ESOYAN MYASNIK
Published: May 2021

Armenian-Egyptian relations were developing year by year from 1991 to 2009 as a result of the historically developed friendly relations between Armenians and Arabs as well as due to their location in the same geographical region. Arabic supplement of “Arev” had its considerable contribution into the development of Armenian-Egyptian relations by promoting political and cultural communication of both countries and by giving vivid examples of spiritual and political rapprochement between Armenians and Egyptians.
Enhancing Academic Performance in English of Bilaran National High School through a Self-Developed Mobile Quiz Game Application
Authors: Punongbayan Alvin B.
Published: May 2021

This study entitled “Enhancing Academic Performance in English of Bilaran National High School through a Self-Developed Mobile Quiz Game Application” aimed to improve the academic performance in English of Bilaran National High School students through a Self-Developed Mobile Quiz Game Application. Currently, it is a problem of Bilaran National High School, especially in English, that students have problems academically such as in retention. The experimental type of research was utilized by the researcher in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the aforementioned mobile quiz game app.After the experiment, the computed t-value of 9.72 which is higher than the critical value of 1.99 set at 0.05 level of significance revealed that there was a significant difference between the post-test results of the control and experimental groups. Thus, it is found out that the Self-Developed Mobile Quiz Game Application is effective in teaching English, both grammar and literary terms. This research may serve as reference to teacher in providing innovations and reinforcement activities that would enhance the learners’ knowledge.
Brown Seaweeds (Sargassum macrocarpum) as Nitrate (NO3) Reducer
Authors: Panganiban Rhoda E.
Published: May 2021

This study entitled, BROWN SEAWEEDS (Sargassum macrocarpum) AS NITRATE (NO3) REDUCER  was conducted to find out if brown seaweeds can help lessen the nitrate content of contaminated water particularly water used in rice field irrigation. After the brown seaweeds were gathered, and the contaminated water from the river used in rice field irrigation was collected, treatments for experimentation were prepared. There were four treatments used: Treatments A, B, C, and D (control). One thousand (1000) mL of contaminated water was placed in each of the containers of all the treatments. After then 50 grams of brown seaweeds were placed in A, 100 g in B, 150 g in C and no seaweed for D. The treatments were observed for nine (9) days and its nitrate (NO3) content tested every three days. The tests were done in the Water Laboratory of the National Power Corporation, Calaca, Batangas using the Spectrophotometer. Results showed that Treatment C with the greatest amount of seaweeds eliminated more nitrate than the other treatments based on the statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA). It is therefore concluded that brown seaweeds (Sargassum macrocarpum) have the ability and the efficacy of reducing the nitrate content of contaminated water.
The criminal career trajectories of domestic violence offenders
Authors: Dowling Christopher , Boxall Hayley
Published: May 2021

This study examines the officially recorded criminal careers of 2,076 domestic violence offenders and 9,925 non-domestic violence offenders in New South Wales in the 10 years following their first police proceeding. Group-based trajectory modelling was used to examine both domestic violence and non-domestic violence offending. Special attention is given to the degree of versatility in offending, and to the interplay of domestic violence and non-domestic violence offending trajectories. Domestic violence offending often formed part of a broader pattern of offending. While trajectories of low‑frequency domestic violence and non-domestic violence offending were most common, domestic violence typically increases as non-domestic violence offences begin to decline. Importantly, there was variability in the offending profiles of domestic violence offenders. This was amplified when non-domestic violence offending was analysed, indicative of a complex array of underlying risk factors.
How does domestic violence escalate over time?
Authors: Boxall Hayley , Lawler Siobhan
Published: May 2021

A key assumption in the domestic violence literature is that abuse escalates in severity and frequency over time. However, very little is known about how violence and abuse unfolds within intimate relationships and there is no consensus on how escalation should be defined or how prevalent it is. A narrative review of the literature identified two primary definitions of escalation: a pattern of increasingly frequent and/or severe violent incidents, or the occurrence of specific violent acts (ie outcomes). Escalation appears to be limited to serious or prolific offenders rather than characterising all abusive relationships. However, disparities in prevalence estimates between those provided by victim–survivors and recorded incident data highlight the difficulty of measuring this aspect of abusive relationships.
Using an iPhone or iPad for Tonal Activities in Teaching Mandarin Chinese
Authors: Beasley William , Wang Lih-Ching Chen
Published: May 2021

Tonal variation is a critical component of spoken Mandarin Chinese, but is relatively rare in Western languages such as English. Native speakers of Western languages who seek to learn Mandarin Chinese often find it particularly difficult to hear and reproduce the tonal variations that are required for fluency in the language. Auditory exercises focusing on detecting tonal variation in sound files can help such learners improve their ability to accurately perceive these variations over time. Recent developments in consumer technology, such as inexpensive smartphones and tablets, have provided tools that ease the process of creating and distributing such exercises. This article will describe the essence of the content to be employed in such learning activities and provide details of the process used to record and distribute them via smartphone.
O feminismo é uma farsa:
Authors: Da Silva Izadora Carvalho
Published: May 2021

O propósito deste artigo é o de identificar e analisar a construção discursiva negacionista contida no vídeo “Será que você deve mesmo ao feminismo o direito de votar, trabalhar e estudar? Eu acho que não”, publicado no canal do YouTube “Direto aos Fatos”. A partir do conceito de desmonumentalização da história (NAPOLITANO, 2007) deseja-se compreender quais os problemas inseridos na narrativa do vídeo cujo tema aborda a história do movimento feminista brasileiro atuante entre os séculos XIX e XX na busca pela aprovação do sufrágio feminino.
Teachers' attitudes toward Personalized Learning Environments
Authors: Pérez Cascante Lucila , Cebrián Manuel , Raposo Manuela , Barrio Brenda
Published: May 2021

Introdução: A atitude dos professores em relação aos recursos digitais é um indicador confiável de como eles usarão a tecnologia em um contexto pedagógico. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar as atitudes dos professores em relação aos ambientes de aprendizagem personalizados (PLE) e os fatores que determinam a sua aceitação ou rejeição a estes novos contextos. Metodologia: A técnica de pesquisa foi aplicada para coletar dados amostrais por meio de um instrumento que contém duas escalas, uma para medir atitudes em relação à tecnologia e outra para determinar atitudes em relação a ambientes de aprendizagem personalizados, além de uma terceira seção para coletar dados demográficos dos participantes. Resultados: os resultados de ANOVAs unilaterais de 334 professores matriculados em programas de mestrado em educação no Equador confirmam que os professores têm uma atitude positiva em relação ao PLE, em um nível superior ou inferior, dependendo de seu conhecimento ou uso do PLE. Conclusões: Pode-se inferir que o PLE pode ser uma estratégia pedagógica importante, desde que sejam consideradas as atitudes, experiências e conhecimentos dos professores.
A Multi-criteria Approach in the Project Selection Process in Multi-Project Context
Authors: Manyombé Charles Éric , Azondékon Sébastien H.
Published: May 2021

In a multi-project environment, organizational complexity refers to the difficulties that organizations often face in choosing projects to build their portfolios, since they do not aim to achieve the same strategic business objectives. It is for this reason that the project selection process requires the implementation of an effective decision-making tool when composing a project portfolio. The objective of this paper is to propose an adapted framework for a better project selection procedure inspired by the approaches of strategic relevance, profitability criteria, uncertainty, and risk analysis, the ability to dispose of scarce resources, and the determination of interdependencies between different projects. 
The Role of Banking Concentration on Financial Stability
Authors: Antony Atellu , Peter Muriu , Odhiambo Sule
Published: May 2021

Globally, financial instability is a major source of concern among policy makers and bank regulators, particularly after the 2007-09 global financial crisis. Motivated by inconsistent theoretical evaluations on the impact of bank concentration on the likelihood of a systemic banking crisis, this paper investigates the role of bank concentration on financial stability in Kenya with competition as an intervening variable. The novelity of this study lies on the use of structural equation modeling (SEM) in the analysis of direct and indirect effects of bank concentration on financial stability. Results show that higher concentration induces banks to increase cost of service provision which may aggravate credit risks and expose banks to systemic risks. Further, competition plays a significant role in ensuring financial system stability which supports the ‘competition-stabiliy’ hypothesis. Uncompetitive banking industry may therefore provide incentive for banks to take excessive risks, which renders them vulnerable to systematic risks. We also establish that tight regulations enhances concentration and financial stability but hinders competition. These new insights give bank regulators and policy makers an incentive to formulate and implement the right policies to improve financial stability.
The DOL-DFL Nexus: The Relationship between the Degree of Operating Leverage (DOL) and the Degree of Financial Leverage (DFL)
Authors: Paganini Marco A.
Published: May 2021

In the present paper, I have modelled the Degree of Operating Leverage (DOL) and the Degree of Financial Leverage (DFL) using the percentage variations of the economic quantities. I devoted a great effort to encompass the investment dynamic and its financing mix to design a robust model implementable in a business context.

The relationship discovered between DOL and DFL is complex and manifold: first, it appears asymmetrical because DOL can influence DFL, but the former is unrelated to the latter. Second, there is an infra-annual relationship measurable through partial derivatives. Eventually, the stress tests shed light on some long-term impacts of one-off shocks even when the steady-state conditions are restored, disclosing an inter-annual relationship.

The DOL-DFL nexus appears to be negatively related, but I also discovered positive relations and unrelated conditions. As argued in the economic literature, they cannot always behave as substitutes. The mathematical DOL-DFL model developed can admit positive, negative, and unrelated relations even though management might intervene to choose the right combination. Also, the Business Case shows positive and negative relationships, both at the infra-annual and inter-annual levels. The DOL-DFL nexus depends on circumstances and management decisions. Empirical evidence should find how management uses such a nexus and how effective such decisions have been over time.
SOME MOBIUS-TYPE FUNCTIONS AND INVERSIONS CONSTRUCTED VIA DIFFERENCE OPERATORS
Authors: HSU L. C. , WANG JUN
Published: May 2021

It is shown that some difference operators and their inverses, defined on the hyper-real field *$\mathbb{R}$ can be used to generate a pair of reciprocal relations that implies both the M\''{o}bius in­version formulae and the fundamental theorem of calculus as special consequences. As suggested by the form for the M\''{o}bius function of integral order, some explicitly con_structive extensions of Mi:ibius-type functions are presented; and accordingly, certain general M\''{o}bius-type inversion pairs are obtained in a natrural way.
ON A TWO-PARAMETER FAMILY OF NONHOMOGENEOUS MEAN VALUES
Authors: QI FENG
Published: May 2021

In the article, a two-parameter family of nonhomogeneous means is considered and its basic properties and monotonicity are investigated. This paper is dedicated to my advisor, Prof. Yi-Pei Chen, at Ximaen University.
Association between infection of Helicobacter pylori and iron deficiency anemia of unknown origin: a systematic review
Authors: Sikorska Sylwia , Lewkowicz Alicja , Kędziora-Kornatowska Kornelia
Published: May 2021

Infection with Helicobacter pylori, a Gram-negative bacterium, is common worldwide, affecting approximately 50% of the world’s population. Complications arising from H. pylori infections can have serious health consequences. In addition to gastritis, peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer, conditions widely described in the literature, scientists are also examining the connection between H. pylori infection and the development of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Iron is an element necessary for the proper functioning of red blood cells and for proper human development, starting in utero. Iron deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency in the world. The unknown etiology of iron deficiency and, consequently, anemia, is a serious problem for clinicians, but also provides an opportunity for scientific research. The aim of this paper is to review the literature investigating links between H. pylori infection and IDA development. The literature review was carried out using Google Scholar and PubMed, and took into account the mechanism of H. pylori infection in IDA development, and the impact of this microorganism on iron metabolism and hematological parameters. The research on iron management and hematological parameters to date has produced varying results. In some cases, the worsening of laboratory results characteristic of IDA was associated with the presence of H. pylori infection. However, there are plenty of studies showing no association between IDA and ongoing infection. Thus, due to insufficient research on the potential mechanistic links between infection and anemia, the influence of H. pylori infection on IDA development cannot be clearly defined.
Rodzina białek gazdermin jako czynnik permeabilizujący błonę komórkową w procesie pyroptozy*
Authors: Kuc-Ciepluch Dorota , Ciepluch Karol , Arabski Michał
Published: May 2021

Streszczenie

Rodzaj śmierci komórkowej, tj. apoptoza, autofagia, nekroza czy pyroptoza zależy od czynnika indukującego oraz fazy cyklu komórkowego. Główną rolę w odpowiedzi immunologicznej organizmu na mikroorganizmy odgrywa proces zwany pyroptozą. Pyroptoza jest rodzajem śmierci komórki indukowanym przez różnego rodzaju czynniki zapalne aktywowane w odpowiedzi na wzorce cząsteczkowe i molekularne związane z patogenami w tym lipopolisacharyd bakteryjny na drodze szlaku kanonicznego lub niekanonicznego w zależności od rodzaju biorących w nich udział kaspaz. W pyroptozie istotną rolę pełni białko gazdermina D należące do rodziny białek gazdermin (A, B, C, D, E i DFNB59), która charakteryzuje się swoistą tkankowo ekspresją genów, głównie w komórkach nabłonkowych, skóry oraz układu pokarmowego i odpowiada za regulację proliferacji i różnicowania komórek, a także za hamowanie lub rozwój nowotworów w różnych narządach. Rodzina GSDM jest odpowiedzialna za tworzenie porów w błonie komórkowej, umożliwiając sekrecję cytokin prozapalnych (IL-1β i IL-18), biorących udział w inicjacji szlaków reakcji zapalnej przez rekrutację i aktywację komórek odpornościowych w miejscu infekcji. Zasadniczą rolę w procesie pyroptozy na drodze niekanonicznej pełni białko gazdermina D, którego N-koniec, tworząc pory w błonie komórkowej powoduje powstanie obrzęku, lizy osmotycznej aż do śmierci zainfekowanej komórki.
Znaczenie kwasu dokozaheksaenowego (DHA) w prewencji zaburzeń funkcji poznawczych u osób starszych
Authors: Białecka-Dębek Agata , Granda Dominika , Pietruszka Barbara
Published: May 2021

Streszczenie

Starzenie się organizmu, jako nieunikniony i postępujący proces biologiczny, prowadzi do nieodwracalnych zmian fizjologicznych i funkcjonalnych, także w układzie nerwowym. Pojawiające się wraz z wiekiem pogorszenie funkcji poznawczych może istotnie wpływać na jakość życia osób starszych. Kwas dokozaheksaenowy (DHA) jest niezbędny do prawidłowego funkcjonowania układu nerwowego – może wpływać na jego działanie bezpośrednio, m.in. przez wpływ na neurogenezę i neuroplastyczność, ale także pośrednio m.in. przez wpływ na funkcjonowanie układu sercowo-naczyniowego czy działanie przeciwzapalne. Na podstawie literatury przedmiotu można stwierdzić, że dobry stan odżywienia kwasami tłuszczowymi z rodziny n-3, określony na podstawie ich poziomu w osoczu krwi lub erytrocytach, jest związany z mniejszym ryzykiem pogorszenia funkcji poznawczych w wybranych domenach poznawczych, a także mniejszym ryzykiem wystąpienia demencji lub choroby Alzheimera, chociaż dostępne są również badania, gdzie nie potwierdzono powyższej zależności. Ponadto badania dotyczące spożycia DHA i EPA (kwas eikozapentaenowy) wraz z dietą, jak również w postaci suplementów diety, wykazują ich korzystny wpływ na funkcjonowanie poznawcze i ryzyko wystąpienia demencji. Także wyniki badań interwencyjnych, chociaż nie są jednoznaczne, sugerują, że wysokie dawki DHA i EPA w postaci suplementów diety mogą spowolnić proces pogorszenia funkcjonowania poznawczego osób starszych w obrębie wybranych domen. Na podstawie dokonanego przeglądu piśmiennictwa można stwierdzić, że kwasy DHA i EPA odgrywają istotną rolę w prewencji zaburzeń poznawczych.
Analysis of the microbiota in the diabetic foot ulcers: Is research standardization required?
Authors: Margas Marta , Wróblewska Marta , Marchel Halina , Mrozikiewicz-Rakowska Beata , Ładyżyński Piotr , Wojciechowska Ewa , Czupryniak Leszek , Krzymień Janusz
Published: May 2021

Background

Complications of infected wounds in patients with diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) are one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine. Analysis of the microbiological profile of infected ulcers may significantly improve treatment results. The aim of the study was to determine the profile of pathogens isolated in patients with DFU and to compare the results of other centers.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was carried out on 137 patients with DFU hospitalized at the Department of Diabetology and Internal Diseases, Medical University of Warsaw in 2011-2014. The analysis included the results of 200 microbiological cultures tested for fungi, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Statistical analysis was used to test differences in HbA1c values in relation to the strain of the most commonly cultured bacteria and the relationship between glycemic control and most frequently isolated pathogens.

Results

Seventy-nine bacterial species were isolated in 183 positive cultures. Gram-negative bacteria predominated with the highest percentage of representatives of Enterobacterales. The most often isolated bacteria were Serratia marcescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mira-bilis and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed that HbA1c concentrations were different in groups infected with different strains of bacteria (p = 0.0087). Isolation of Escherichia coli and Morganella morganii was more often associated with poor control of diabetes.

Conclusions

The study revealed statistically significant differences in the frequency of microorganisms isolated from the wounds of patients with DFU. The discrepancies in the results of other studies published in this field indicate the need for standardization of the research design.
In-Vitro Evaluation of Biological Activity of New Series of 1, 3, 4-Oxadiazole Derivatives Against Bap Gene Expression in Acinetobacter baumannii Biofilm
Authors: Akbarnezhad Ghareh Lar Sedigheh , Zarrabi Ahrabi Nakisa , SarveAhrabi Yasin
Published: May 2021

Background: Acinetobacter baumannii is one of the most common opportunistic pathogens in health centers that is resistant to many antibiotics due to biofilm production. 1, 3, 4-oxadiazoles have a wide range of biological activities. Objectives: The aim of this research was to examine the impact of new 1, 3, 4-oxadiazole derivatives on the expression of biofilm-associated surface protein (Bap), playing an important role in promoting the biofilm formation ability of A. baumannii strains. Methods: Derivatives of 1, 3, 4-oxadiazole were synthesized through a one-step synthesis. Acinetobacter baumannii strains were identified and isolated in the laboratory. The antimicrobial properties of the synthesized materials against the isolated strains were investigated. DNA, RNA, and cDNA were extracted, and the relative expression of BAP gene in A. baumannii isolates was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: The compound with methoxyphenyl functional group with MIC = 62.50 mg/mL had the best inhibitory performance among all derivatives. Also, the combination of 4i reduced the expression of the Bap gene by about 24 times, but it had no effect on the expression of the 16srRNA housekeeping gene. Conclusions: 1, 3, 4-oxadiazole derivatives, especially the methoxyphenyl functional group, act as an inhibitor of bacterial biofilm formation and have the potential to be used in the pharmaceutical and biological industries.
Assessing the level of implementation of corporate social responsibility in Serbian banking sector
Authors: Jolović Nevena , Đuričin Sonja
Published: May 2021

The integration of the social, economic, and environmental dimension of business into day-to-day business operations is a basic feature of corporate social responsibility. The new millennium saw the concept of social responsibility introduced in the Serbian banking sector. Originally perceived as a risky and intriguing phenomenon, today it is an indispensable part of many Serbian banks' business. For this reason, the aim of the research is to assess the level of implementation of corporate social responsibility in the Serbian banking sector. The sample consisted of a number of active and systemically important banks in the Republic of Serbia. We examined the propensity of Serbian banking entities to behave responsibly towards the community, the environment, their employees, investors, clients, and suppliers. For the purpose of this research, descriptive statistics, analysis and synthesis techniques, and a detailed analysis of scientific publications by Serbian and foreign authors from the relevant field were used. The results supported the premise that the Serbian banking sector exhibits a high level of implementation of socially responsible behavior, with a tendency towards further growth. This business behavior, generally speaking, indirectly affects corporate performance, stakeholder loyalty, and the reputation of the financial institutions.
The impact of innovation indicators on increasing exports of high technology products
Authors: Domazet Ivana , Marjanović Darko , Ahmetagić Deniz , Bugarčić Milica
Published: May 2021

Competitiveness of high-technology products (HTP) is more significant on the world market than products of medium and low quality. Increase in the innovation performance should lead to the growth of high technology application in production consequently rising exports of HTP as an important factor in increasing competitiveness. In this paper we wanted to analyze the correlations and conditionality of exports of HTP (share of exports in total country exports) and selected indicators that influence innovation: GDP, R&D costs (research and development cost in four sectors), degree of education of the population, number of researchers (in four sectors) and global innovation index (GII). The main aim was to identify which indicators contributed to the growth of exports of HTP in the analyzed countries (Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria and Hungary) in the observed period of ten years (2009-2018), in order to give certain recommendations on the measures and procedures Serbia should take to increase the level of innovation index and exports of HTP. In this paper, the exports of HTP was analyzed in Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria and Hungary. The influence of the chosen indicators on export of high technology products was analyzed using the POLS model, the fixed effects model and the random effects model. The results indicate that if analyzed countries do not find resources to intensify investment in education and R&D, they will not reach the average EU innovation indicators for many years. Also, it will seriously harm the competitiveness of the economies of the observed countries in the conditions dictated by the modern business environment and the challenges of the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0).
Effects of the perceived value dimensions on customer loyalty: Evidence from hotel and tourism industries
Authors: Đorđević Aleksandar , Topalović Snežana , Marinković Veljko
Published: May 2021

During the conditions of permanent competitive struggle within the tourism market, service organizations constantly need to work on improving their products and services in accordance with the expectations and preferences of their users. Offering the superior value of products and services is gaining more and more importance, thus enabling the achievement of positive financial performance and the creation of competitive advantage. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effects of four dimensions of perceived value (functional, economic, emotional and social) onto the loyalty of service users in hotel and tourism industries. Two separate studies have been carried out within the paper thus performing the comparative analysis of gained results within the stated areas. In order to test the mentioned effects, a multiple regression analysis has been used, while in order to estimate the concordance and validity of the constructed models the reliability analysis and confirmatory factor analysis have been used. The results of the research show that out of four dimensions of perceived value, two key dimensions (emotional and social) achieve a statistically significant influence onto the loyalty of hotel service users. When it comes to tourism agencies, economic and social value stand out as the key drivers of loyalty. The identification of key dimensions of perceived value on customer loyalty in hotel and tourism management is of essential importance, since based on it, the managers of service companies can upgrade and improve the business cooperation with their users. The originality of this paper can be found in the usage of multidimensional concept of perceived value and in carrying out two separate studies: in the area of hotel and tourism industries, thus securing the comparative analysis of the results.
Influence of external factors on foreign direct investment flows using the example of the Visegrad Group and Serbia
Authors: Kemiveš Aleksandar , Barjaktarović Lidija
Published: May 2021

This research paper examines the impact of external factors on the dynamics of foreign direct investment (FDI) trends in specific economies. The same subject will be analyzed through the examples of the Visegrad Group and the Republic of Serbia. The aim of the research is to determine the existence of a link between the impact of foreign direct investments on the growth and development of the economy observed through gross domestic product (GDP) in the 1990-2018 period. The results of the research indicate that Poland was the most successful in attracting and keeping FDI, compared to other countries. Further, the volume of FDI has been dependent on several external factors, such as overall business environment, economic crisis, political risks, positions in relevant institutions, pandemic, etc. Moreover, for the Republic of Serbia, it will be important that all stakeholders in the country have a proactive approach in order to keep FDI in the country. Finally, representatives of the authorities should be committed to fulfilling promised deals related to the regional cooperation and EU (European Union) accession and integration.
Impact of the COVID-19 crisis on SMEs and possible innovation responses
Authors: Paunović Blagoje , Aničić Zorica
Published: May 2021

The aim of this paper is to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the business operations of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Serbia as well as to identify the best ways to overcome the crisis effects and stimulate further SME growth. On a sample of 689 SMEs in Serbia, in the present paper we study the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on both the overall business of firms and certain aspects of their business (demand, logistics, organization of business activities, collection of trade receivables, and access to financing). The results of our research suggest that the crisis effects vary across the SME sector depending on the business activity, size, region an SME operates in, and the extent of achieved business digitalization and networking during the pandemic. Lastly, based on the effects of the COVID-19 crisis on the business operations of SMEs in Serbia and taking into account the experiences of other economies with the COVID-19 crisis as well as the lessons learned from previous crises, in this paper we highlight the significance of innovation and possible innovation responses of SMEs to the crisis effects as the ways to overcome it.
Policy response to COVID-19 pandemic and related future challenges
Authors: Vujović Dušan
Published: May 2021

The paper reviews new standard policy response to global COVID-19 pandemic led by the IMF. It identifies new innovative approaches in the design of expansionary fiscal support measures and accommodating monetary policy. Particular attention is paid to the treatment of labor markets, job-retention measures, and worker-reallocation efforts deployed at appropriate stages of continued pandemic, initial post-COVID-19 economic recovery and longer-run investment for sustainable future growth. The paper detects inherent policy limitations in the treatment of local, national and global public goods, excessive globalization, and unregulated financial markets and capital mobility, as well as weak integration between prevailing economic policy paradigm and other social sciences. It seeks a solution in expanding economic policy framework beyond neoliberalism, by harnessing democracy and human wellbeing consistent with sustainable development goals through balanced conduct of economic policy, efficient and adequately regulated markets (as needed), and responsible and transparent state actions.
Rehabilitation of urban heritage in the service of ethno-national divisions on the example of Sarajevo and Banja Luka
Authors: Perić-Romić Ranka
Published: May 2021

This paper discusses the impact of the process of rehabilitation and revitalisation of the cultural and historical heritage of Banja Luka and Sarajevo on the strengthening of ethno-national policies /patterns of a divided society. Special attention will be paid to the processes of preserving the urban centres/historical cores of the mentioned cities, which are recognisable as places of separation and distancing for 'non-belonging' ethnic groups. In that sense, the rehabilitation of the urban heritage of Banja Luka and Sarajevo will not be exclusively problematised as preservation and aestheticisation of cultural and historical heritage 'per se', but as a kind of instrumentalisation of urban space for the purpose of over emphasising ethno-national identities in the post-war period. The survey will be primarily based on a comparative analysis of available data on the development of urban centres so far. The survey results indicate that the mentioned instrumentalisation of urban heritage is manifested through the planning and construction/renovation of specific facilities that (un)justifiably fit into the existing cultural and historical context characteristic of these cities. From that perspective, it is noticeable that the cultural and historical cores of Banja Luka and Sarajevo today have a far more significant role in promoting ethno-national identities and divisions than was the case in the past. The character of these processes does not have exclusively intentional features, but is conditioned by other current policies of urban development that do not have an ethno-national background.
The Additive Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Actively Bleeding Peptic Ulcer
Authors: Seleem Waseem M. , Hanafy Amr Shaaban
Published: May 2021

Background/Aims: Peptic ulcer bleeding is the most common cause of upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) enhances tissue repair, and is therefore used in various medical treatments. A combination of mechanical or electrothermal hemostasis has been recommended for upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding treatment. This study evaluated the additive efficacy of PRP in bleeding peptic ulcer hemostasis and recovery.Methods: Eighty patients with peptic ulcer bleeding were initially treated by hemoclipping, and were randomly chosen for either additional PRP (n=40) or additional epinephrine (n=40) injections. Both groups were compared with regard to achieving hemostasis and the frequency of complications.Results: Hemostasis was immediately achieved in both groups. Two patients (5%) in the PRP group and 8 (20%) patients in the epinephrine group experienced rebleeding after 15.9±2.8 and 12.3±3.7 days, respectively. They were managed by PRP injection in addition to proton pump inhibitor infusion. Hemoglobin was substantially increased in the PRP-treated group with full recovery occurring in 60.5% compared to 31.3% of patients in the epinephrine group (p=0.001). There was no recurrent bleeding in the PRP group, but 4/32 (12.5%) patients in the epinephrine group exhibited rebleeding.Conclusions: PRP showed additional benefit in reducing peptic ulcer bleeding with no reported significant complications. Clinical trial (NCT03733171).
Biliary Self-Expandable Metal Stent Could Be Recommended as a First Treatment Modality for Immediate Refractory Post-Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Bleeding
Authors: Moon Sun Young , Heo Jun , Jung Min Kyu , Cho Chang Min
Published: May 2021

Background/Aims: Recent reports suggest that the biliary self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is highly effective for maintaining hemostasis when endoscopic hemostasis fails in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)-related bleeding. We compared whether temporary SEMS offers better efficacy than angioembolization for refractory immediate ERCP-related bleeding.Methods: Patients who underwent SEMS placement or underwent angioembolization for bleeding control in refractory immediate ERCP-related bleeding were included in the retrospective analysis. We evaluated the hemostasis success rate, severity of bleeding, change in hemoglobin levels, amount of transfusion, and delay to the start of hemostasis.Results: A total of 27 patients with SEMS and 13 patients who underwent angioembolization were enrolled. More transfusions were needed in the angioembolization group (1.0±1.4 units vs. 2.5±2.0 units; p=0.034). SEMS failure was successfully rescued by angioembolization. The partially covered SEMS (n=23, 85.1%) was generally used, and the median stent-indwelling time was 4 days. The mean delay to the start of angioembolization was 95.2±142.9 (range, 9–491) min.Conclusions: Temporary SEMS had similar results to those of angioembolization (96.3% vs. 92.3%; p=0.588). Immediate SEMS insertion is considered a bridge treatment modality for immediate refractory ERCP-related bleeding. Angioembolization still has a role as rescue therapy when SEMS does not work effectively.
The Comparison of Potential Driving Force of Various Rig Types Used for Fishing Vessels
Authors: Marchaj C. A.
Published: May 2021

This paper examines planform and aspect ratio effects on potential power of a number of rigs - Bermudan, Lateen, Sprit, Gunter, Dipping Lug and Crab Claw rigs, some with modifications (Figure 1). Coefficients of effective driving force, based on wind tunnel testing, are established for those rigs for a range of courses from close hauled to running. A comparative assessment of aerodynamic merits and demerits of various rigs is made. Also an attempt is made to find correlation between the potential power of the rigs in question, and the speed performance of a given hull driven by these different rigs.
Ginseng for the Management of Cancer-Related Fatigue: An Integrative Review
Authors: A. Lemke, DNP, AGPCNP-BC, AOCNP Emily
Published: May 2021

Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most prevalent, debilitating symptoms affecting a majority of patients with cancer worldwide. It can lead to poor compliance with anticancer therapy and discontinuation of treatment. Current management strategies for CRF center around activity and exercise; however, these strategies can be challenging for many patients undergoing active treatment. Ginseng has been shown to improve CRF and may provide benefit for patients suffering from CRF. Methods: A systematic review was completed by searching PubMed and Scopus databases. Results: 115 search results were reduced to a final sample of five articles after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Published results suggest that 2,000 mg of American ginseng once daily improves symptoms of CRF. Minimal side effects or drug interactions are observed. Additional research is needed to further evaluate the role of ginseng for CRF. Conclusion: There are data to support the use of American ginseng to treat CRF. Large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these findings and determine optimal dosage and duration of therapy.