bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of an activated sludge model to simulate Thriasio Wastewater Treatment Plant operation in West Attica, Greece
Authors: Fougias Evangelos , Kalaitzi Evangelia
Published: July 2024

In the last decades, the use of activated sludge mathematical models has proved to be a useful tool for the simulation of either the design or performance of activated sludge systems in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). In this study, Activated Sludge SΙΜulation Model (ASIM) was used to verify operational performance and effluent characteristics of Thriasio WWTP, in conformity with 91/271 E.E.C, Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD) for discharge in a sensitive water body. Thriasio WWTP is located at a coastal site neighbouring Elefsina Bay in West Attica, Greece, and has a nominal capacity of 117,000 population equivalent (p.e.).
In this context, it was investigated whether the use of such a model could be a useful tool to verify operational performance and predict the effect of influent wastewater flows and loads variation on system behavior. The results indicated that such a prospective indeed exists, provided that plant specific data is obtained related to wastewater fractionation and biomass kinetics  to enhance model application.
Deconstructing a Prussian Myth: The Athenian Standards Decree (IG I3 1453a-g)
Authors: Psoma Selene E.
Published: July 2024

This article analyzes the clauses of the Athenian Standards Decree, which has long been interpreted as banning allied cities from minting their own coinage. It interprets the Standards Decree not as a sign of Athenian imperialism, as previously thought, but as a technical financial measure aimed at streamlining tax collection within the empire. It examines evidence from mints, hoards, and Athenian financial documents that cast doubt on this traditional interpretation. Following other scholars who have questioned the conventional view, the article introduces additional evidence to support an interpretation of the decree as a purely financial measure. Oaths in treaties between Athens and her allies are examined to show that all restorations of capital punishment in the missing part of the Bouleutic Oath are untenable because the Council did not have the power to impose punishments over 500 drachms. The article rejects previous attempts to see an allusion to the decree in a passage from Aristophanes’ Birds (spring 414 BC) and to date it shortly before 414 BC, because of the manuscript tradition, ancient scholia, the passage’s meaning, and the decree’s purpose. Instead, the mention of four districts of the Athenian Empire and the inclusion of weights and measures alongside coinage point to a date in the autumn of 413 BC, coinciding with the introduction of the eikoste (a 5% tax). The article argues that through this decree, Athens attempted to increase revenue and to collect significant quantities of Attic currency. How- ever, this measure did not last long; Athens reintroduced the tribute system most probably sometime after the decisive sea battle of Cyzicus.
The lichen genus Sarcogyne (Acarosporaceae) in Belarus
Authors: Tsurykau Andrei , Knudsen Kerry , Golubkov Vladimir , Bely Pavel , Kocourková Jana
Published: July 2024

The lichen genus Sarcogyne in Belarus is revised. Three species are accepted as occurring in the country, namely Sarcogyne belarusensis, S. hypophaea, and S. pruinosa. Of these, Sarcogyne belarusensis is the most widely distributed and commonest species. Sarcogyne pruinosa and S. hypophaea are rare taxa known from two and one localities, respectively. Morphological characters of these species are provided in comparison with similar taxa.
Scientific and Ethical Principles as a Basis for the Training of a Media Communication Specialist in the Digital Age
Authors: Agadzhanyan Ruben , Ulanova O.
Published: July 2024

The paper is aimed at analyzing the ways in which digital science ethics influence the media communication specialist personality development, taking into account clarifying the characteristics of ethics (general, scientific and digital), communication (general, media communication and digital), as well as the correlation between the “research scientist” and “specialist” concepts. It applies the formative experiment method, which involves the combination of digital, linguistic and linguodidactic means and their independent choice by students in the specially organized research situation. The research obtains the outcomes demonstrating the development level of the ideas about digital science ethics in all its manifestations.
Classroom Techniques for Soft Skills Development of International Business Students
Authors: Pashkova I.
Published: July 2024

Due to the highly competitive labor market environment, the relevance of students' and graduates' soft skills is becoming paramount. The skills, which include communication, emotional intelligence, creative thinking, and teamwork, are critically important for a successful career, particularly in management, because of growing demands for both professional and personal qualities.

The aim of the study is to develop, describe and verify teaching techniques aimed at improving the communicative soft skills of future managers during English language classes.

The research methods include the scientific literature review on the topic, experimental training, observation, interview, as well as qualitative methods of the result evaluation.

The results of the study showed that the implementation of the techniques significantly enhances students' communicative skills, improves their ability to conduct business negotiations, make presentations and deliver speeches, resolve conflict situations, and interact in an international environment. Such interactive teaching methods, as brainstorming, discussions, debates, case studies, business and role-playing games, projects, the Jigsaw method, and creating mind maps in English, contributes to the development and improvement of communicative soft skills, as well as critical thinking and creativity among students.

The scientific novelty of the research lies in the comprehensive approach to developing communicative soft skills through English language teaching methods and the integration of interactive teaching techniques into the university educational process starting from the first years at university.

The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of using the teaching techniques to train highly qualified specialists capable of effectively working in a business environment. The research results can be applied to improve professional training programs for managers in response to growing employers’ demands for graduates' soft skills.
Linguistic Characteristics of Veterinary Communication in the Discursive Aspect (Based on the Material of the English-Language Veterinary Discourse)
Authors: Novikova O. , Muryasov Rahim , Taleckaya T.
Published: July 2024

Recent years have been marked by the interest of linguists in issues of communication in the field of veterinary medicine that plays an increasingly important role in the life of an individual and society. Communication skills are considered fundamental to the veterinary specialist model; their formation is addressed to primarily in terms of discourse and focuses on terminology.

Aim. The article aims to identify the discursive potential of a number of syntactic constructions of oral veterinary discourse and outline research prospects.

Methods. The following methods were used in the work: general scientific analysis, syntactic and discourse analysis.

Results and scientific novelty. Turning to syntax in research on veterinary communication indicates its importance in the formation of this discourse which results in the need to study it in linguistic-discursive and methodological terms. The formation of the specific syntax of oral veterinary discourse is influenced by the characteristics of the specialist as a linguistic personality and their commitment to a certain structure of the reception. Models of questions adopted in humane medicine require careful adaptation to veterinary medicine. Pronouns and incomplete utterances can be a means of influencing the client. It seems productive to consider the place of the concept “syntactic constructions” among the concepts-characteristics of professional discourse.

Practical significance. The results of the study contribute to the theory of veterinary discourse and can be used in a communication course in the field of veterinary medicine at a university, the development of which seems necessary due to the linguistically active nature of the veterinary profession
Communication in Society: Interaction or Impact?
Authors: Goncharova Lyubov
Published: July 2024

The words of the editor-in-chief indicate the key scientific aspects of the publications in the current issue and note the relevance of research into communicative practices carried out in various spheres of human activity.
Algorithm of complex therapy and prevention of emotional burnout in doctors-psychiatrists during the war and its effectiveness
Authors: Levin Taras
Published: July 2024

Abstract. The purpose - to develop and determine the effectiveness of the algorithm of complex therapy and prevention of emotional burnout (EB) among psychiatrists during the war, to resolve the issue of its recommendation for wide implementation in the system of mental health care institutions. The research sample, which was formed in compliance with the principles of biomedical ethics and based on informed consent, included 120 psychiatrists who worked in the city of Kyiv in the period from February 24, 2022. During 2022, the persons under examination were divided into three groups: the first group included 37 persons (30.8%) – doctors with no signs of professional maladjustment (PMA), and a low level of EB; the second group consisted of 57 persons (47.5% )  with signs of professional PMA, and a moderate level of EB; the third group consisted of 26 persons ( 21.7%) and they were respondents with clinically established and pronounced PMA, and a high level of EB. As a result of the study, the personal, psychopathological, psychosocial, professional and emotional-interpersonal factors of the formation and progression of EB among psychiatrists during the war were established, and their interrelationships in its genesis, on the basis of which the basic principles of a comprehensive approach to the therapy and prevention of EB were formulated for psychiatrists (complexity, personalization, phasing and availability), the main goals of treatment and prevention measures are defined and 4 therapeutic strategies of diagnosis, therapy and prevention are proposed within the framework of providing specialized medical care to psychiatrists during the war. These are recommended to be implemented taking into account the degree PMA as a key descriptor of EB, and in accordance with the key vectors of pathological changes in the respondents. The implementation and further evaluation of the effectiveness of the mentioned measures proved their effectiveness in eliminating manifestations of EB and PMA, normalization of mental state with levelling of psychopathological symptoms, improvement of social and psychological adaptation and quality of life of psychiatrists. The results obtained make it possible to recommend this algorithm for wide implementation in the practice of mental health care institutions.
Retrospective Analysis of Reasons for Presenting to Emergency Ophthalmic Care in Poland and the USA – Literature Review
Authors: Michalczewska Aneta , Marszałek-Moc Kaja , Palacz Karolina Alicja , Miernik-Skrzypczak Magdalena , Jasiewicz Maria , Kamińska Monika , Karnas-Bognacka Patrycja , Dąbrowska Natalia
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Emergency Department is a hospital unit, where is provided care in in cases of sudden threat to life and health. One of the reasons why patients come to the Emergency Department is eye damage. Emergency ophthalmological services are a very important form of ophthalmological care because some conditions and diseases require quick intervention to prevent permanent vision damage or eye loss. Patients come to hospital emergency departments for many reasons, such as: eyeball injury, sudden pain or unexpected deterioration of vision. It is worth noting that some patients do not understand the provision of services within health care units and in conditions that do not require urgent care, they seek it in emergency rooms.
Aim of study. The following study analyzes the reasons for reporting to emergency ophthalmological services in Poland and the United States. Knowing the most common causes of patients' ailments and the factors that influence them, we can plan strategies for providing specific services within health care units.
Materials and methods. The work reviews articles published in the years 2005-2023 in Poland and the United States of America. The results obtained from individual studies were divided in terms of age, gender, traumatic and non-traumatic causes. Additionally, it was checked how often patients had to be hospitalized after staying in Polish emergency departments.
Conclusions. Injuries and other eye diseases affect patients regardless of gender and age. Most often, these are adult men.
The impact of regular yoga practice on the course of endocrinological and diabetological disorders - a literature review.
Authors: Ślusarczyk Monika , Foryś Angelika , Kwaśniak Ksenia , Banach Mariola , Magierska Agata , Miłek Magdalena , Stawska Weronika , Niemczyk Anna , Kotowicz Zuzanna , Kmiotek Weronika
Published: July 2024

Introduction and purpose: Yoga originates from ancient Indian culture. Its practice includes asanas (yoga poses) and relaxation (shavasana). An important element of yoga is breath control. It can also be practiced by individuals who are not adapted for physical activity. Numerous studies have proven the positive impact of yoga on various disorders. The aim of this study is to outline the role of yoga in the treatment of diseases with underlying endocrinological disorders: polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothyroidism, and type 2 diabetes.
Brief description of the state of knowledge: The growing interest in yoga practice has led to many studies evaluating the impact of regular yoga training on normalizing abnormal hormone levels, metabolic parameters, anthropometric measurements, as well as reducing clinical symptoms of a particular disease. The importance of yoga practice in improving the respiratory and circulatory system functions, regulating menstrual cycles, and ultimately - improving mental health, has also been the subject of research among endocrine patients. Their results suggest a positive impact of regular yoga training on many aspects of endocrine diseases and its advantage over conventional forms of physical activity.
Summary: Regular practice of yoga is beneficial as an additional element of therapy for endocrine diseases. It has an impact not only on the regulation of hormonal disorders or anthropometric parameters, but also on improving the mental state, which is often disturbed in endocrine patients.  It is worth considering this form of physical activity instead of standard exercises, taking into account its additional benefits.
Impact of Creatine Supplementation on Strength Training
Authors: Janik Izabela , Kuśmierska Martyna , Kuśmierski Jakub
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Creatine monohydrate supplementation has become a popular ergogenic aid among athletes and fitness enthusiasts aiming not only to enhance strength and muscle mass but also to augment intense resistance training workouts. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current scientific literature on the effects of creatine supplementation on strength training. What’s more, it contains the mechanisms of action, potential benefits, optimal dosing strategies, and safety considerations associated with creatine supplementation in the context of strength training.
Material and Methods of Research: A literature search was conducted on Google Scholar and PubMed using keywords related to the impact of creatine supplementation on strength training.
Results: There is no doubt that creatine supplementation has a positive effect on muscle strength, hypertrophy, exercise recovery, performance and power. Creatine also reduces dehydration and cramping, minimizes muscle tightness (including muscle strains and pulls), preventing severe muscle injuries or reducing the severity of muscle injuries. The benefits of supplementing creatine may, in the long run, help athletes achieve bursts of speed and energy, especially during short bouts of high-intensity activities such as weight lifting or sprinting.
Conclusion: This study confirms that supplementing with creatine is a reliable and safe approach to bolster strength training results for those aiming to enhance muscular strength, power, and hypertrophy. By increasing intramuscular phosphocreatine levels and aiding muscle protein synthesis, creatine supplementation offers notable advantages in exercise performance and recovery, especially during intense resistance training regimens.
The value of clinical photography
Authors: Agarwala Maya , Adam Naeem I
Published: July 2024

In the ever-evolving field of orthodontics, the integration of high-quality photography into orthodontic practice remains indispensable. This article provides some key pointers to help with good photography during the provision of orthoodontic treatment.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: It is important for clinicians to be aware that high-quality photography is an essential aid in treatment.
Tricks of the trade
Authors: Benashur Maab , Adam Naeem I
Published: July 2024

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This Trick shows how to optimise the use of a ring flash in portrait photography.
Distribution Patterns of the Haplotypes of Sarcoptes scabiei Related to Sarcoptic Mange in Wild Animals in South Korea
Authors: Lee Anna , Lee Sook-Jin , Chae Seung-hoon , Bae Seongeun , Kim Hong-Cheol , Son Jang-ick , Yang Jeong-Jin , Lee Sa-Hyun , Kim Hee-Jong , Jung Young-Chul , Kim Bong Kyun , Oh Hong-Shik , Han Sang-Hyun
Published: July 2024

The study examined the distribution patterns of the genotypes of the ectoparasite Sarcoptes scabiei related to sarcoptic mange in wild animals in South Korea. We obtained mitochondrial cytochrome c oxydase I (cox-I) gene sequences from the skin tissues of sarcoptic mange isolated from the infested animals. After combining the newly obtained sequences and those previously reported, a total of forty-three cox-I haplotypes (SSC01-SSC43) were identified. Among those, SSC01 has already been recorded in various mammals including raccoon dog, marten and wallaby so far from many countries around the world, but the other three haplotypes SSC06, SSC14 and SSC43 have been newly detected in this study. SSC01 was observed in raccoon dogs, red foxes and a long-tailed goral, and ranged widely from northern to southern provinces in South Korea. Haplotypes SSC14 and SSC43 were found in one raccoon dog from Hongseong-si, Chungcheongnam-do, and one raccoon dog from Dong-gu, Ulsan-si, respectively. The SSC06 was only observed in a long-tailed goral from Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do. Geographic distribution patterns were habitat-related parasitic infestation rather than host-specific infestation. Our findings showing that sympatric species can be infested by parasites with the same genotype, suggest that interspecific cross-infestation may be possible through interactions between sympatric species within the same habitat.
The power of bidiagonal matrices
Authors: Higham Nicholas J.
Published: July 2024

Bidiagonal matrices are widespread in numerical linear algebra, not least because of their use in the standard algorithm for computing the singular value decomposition and their appearance as LU factors of tridiagonal matrices. We show that bidiagonal matrices have a number of interesting properties that make them powerful tools in a variety of problems, especially when they are multiplied together. We show that the inverse of a product of bidiagonal matrices is insensitive to small componentwise relative perturbations in the factors if the factors or their inverses are nonnegative. We derive componentwise rounding error bounds for the solution of a linear system  $Ax = b$, where $A$ or $A^{-1}$ is a product $B_1 B_2\dots B_k$ of bidiagonal matrices, showing that strong results are obtained when the $B_i$ are nonnegative or have a checkerboard sign pattern. We show that given the factorization of an $n\times n$ totally nonnegative matrix $A$ into the product of bidiagonal matrices, $\| A^{-1} \|_{\infty}$ can be computed in $O(n^2)$ flops and that in floating-point arithmetic the computed result has small relative error, no matter how large $\| A^{-1} \|_{\infty}$ is. We also show how factorizations involving bidiagonal matrices of some special matrices, such as the Frank matrix and the Kac-Murdock-Szegö matrix, yield simple proofs of the total nonnegativity and other properties of these matrices.
Analysis of EAC Using Multiple Regression and Conditional Process: A Statistical Approach
Authors: Singh Muskan , Ghai Sachin , Mishra Amar Kumar , Goyal Nupur
Published: July 2024

In the modern world of increased competition, evolving technologies and volatile environment every institution must poise themselves to innovate and change, not only to prosper but merely to survive. The situation is more acute in institutions of higher education in India where things are changing with unprecedented speed. The survival of the institutions will depend upon the adaptability of their employees to embrace the change. However, employees’ acceptance to change cannot be developed overnight and also in isolation. It requires intensity and persistency of efforts in the right direction from the management. In the present paper, the researchers have identified the role of emotional intelligence and locus of control in enhancing employees’ acceptance to change in HEIs, Uttarakhand using multiple regression and conditional process analysis. The data for the present study were collected using stratified sampling and structured questionnaires from 432 employees from various HEIs in Uttarakhand. The finding revealed that EI enhances the EAC in HEI. Further, it also revealed that Job Satisfaction acts as a partial mediator in the relation between EI and EAC.
Scamming the poor: fraudulent loans in Mexico
Authors: Ghys Tuur , Llanes-García Yessica Elizabet
Published: July 2024

This article examines the practice of fraudulent informal loans given to vulnerable groups in Mexico, and connects these malpractices to the structural (re)production of poverty. The scams resolve around fake credit companies offering loans to people in need on the condition that they pay a deposit, after which contact is broken. After locating scams within broader discussions on vulnerability, poverty and credit, an empirical study is presented based on 35 interviews with victims. Results are presented regarding the reasons why people fall in these traps, how they are cause and consequence of vulnerability, and the difficulties of prosecution. The conclusions reflect on the role of such traps within the production of poverty, the relative invisibility of these crimes, and the topic of legal protection and prosecution.
The under-criminalisation of the Hunting Act 2004 and the intersection of criminal selectivity, policing and classism
Authors: Davanna Tracey
Published: July 2024

This article fills important gaps in criminology by analysing the police response to foxhunting in one English county. Despite the Hunting Act 2004 legislating against hunting with dogs, the article demonstrates how foxhunting proceeds with a ‘business as usual’ discourse. Using Vegh Weis’ (2017) under- and over-criminalisation and historical development of the criminal justice sector (CJS), the article uses foxhunting as an example of the siting of classism in ‘original criminal selectivity’ that continues to explain police practices today. The use of foxhunting is particularly pertinent given the overlap in privileged relationships not only positioned to mechanisms of criminalisation but also to the historical development of foxhunting. The article demonstrates how the under-criminalisation of foxhunting is enabling the perpetuation of violence and harms by hunts and their supporters, the latter drawing more frequently on organised violence. This violence is aimed primarily at hunt saboteurs, whose role is also examined in this article through community activism applied to an abolitionist perspective. The article concludes that the police are there to maintain hegemonic practices positioned to economic power, a relationship that is understood by the intersection of original criminal selectivity, the law and classism.
The Dark Side of the White Alps: Guerrilla Narratives in the Marble Landscape of Tuscany
Authors: Braucher Chiara , Armiero Marco
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In this article, we explore the marble extractivist landscape of Tuscany, Italy, through the category of the Wasteocene. We interpret that landscape as the product of wasting relationships producing wasted people and ecosystems. In that territory, as everywhere in the Wasteocene, toxic narratives (TNs) ensure that injustice stays invisible or is normalized because toxicity is not only a chemical fact but also a narrative fact changing identities and memories. Communities fighting against toxicity must also fight to free their stories from TNs; we call that resistance a guerrilla narrative (GN). A GN is the ensemble of tools and practices aiming to sabotage TNs while proposing alternative identities and stories for affected communities. We have analyzed sixteen narrative sources in a variety of media—texts, songs, videos, exhibitions, and theater representations—and conducted seven interviews focusing on the themes emerging from the sources. We have coded the GN materials, having detected twelve relevant themes, which include death, devastation, work, and property rights. The GNs we have analyzed uncover facts that stay invisible in mainstream narratives. But GNs do not only denounce the costs of necrocapitalism on subalterns and the environment; they also sabotage the TNs that make necrocapitalism acceptable and wasting relationships natural.
Neural single-shot GHz FMCW correlation imaging
Authors: (Hsin) Pan Cindy , Walsh Noah , Zhang Yuxuan , Shi Zheng , Heide Felix
Published: July 2024

Depth sensing is essential for 3D environmental perception across application domains, including autonomous driving, topographical mapping, and augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Traditional correlation time-of-flight (ToF) methods, while are able to produce dense high-resolution depth maps, are plagued by phase wrapping artifacts which limit their effective depth range. Though multi-frequency methods can help reduce this problem by simultaneously solving for phase wrap counts in multiple wavelengths, this requires multiple measurements per pixel, necessitating additional hardware and imaging time. We introduce a 3D imaging method that requires a single per-point measurement by combining frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) operation, all-optical correlation ToF imaging, and a specialized frequency-decoding network. Our system performs all-optical correlation imaging at GHz rates. The method is validated through both simulations and real-world experiments, comparing favorably to existing methods in all experiments.
Experimental enhancement of six-beam quantum squeezing by phase-sensitive cascaded four-wave mixing processes
Authors: Wang Jiabin , Lou Yanbo , Liu Shengshuai , Jing Jietai
Published: July 2024

We experimentally realize the enhancement of six-beam quantum squeezing by utilizing a six-beam phase-sensitive amplifier (PSA) based on cascaded four-wave mixing processes. Compared to the intensity-difference squeezing (IDS) of about 5.03 or 5.09 dB generated by a six-beam phase-insensitive amplifier (PIA), the six-beam IDS generated by the six-beam PSA is enhanced to about 6.64 dB. The intrinsic interference of six-beam PSA induces this enhancement. In addition, we investigate the dependence of IDS generated by the six-beam PSA and PIAs on the powers of two pump beams. The results show that the IDS of six-beam PSA is always better than that of six-beam PIAs. Our scheme may find potential applications in high-precision multi-parameter quantum metrology.
Increasing the Precision of Transmission Spectroscopy by Optimization of Thin Film Surface Shapes
Authors: Bass John , Matito Manuel Ballester , Fernández S , Katsaggelos Aggelos , Marquez Emilio , Willomitzer Florian
Published: July 2024

While thin film transmission spectroscopy systems can measure semiconductor optical properties, the utilized optimization-based evaluation methods often introduce variances in the results. We introduce a method of optimizing film surface shapes that reduces this uncertainty.
Potential risk factors of pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome in sepsis
Authors: Saragih Kezia Theofani , Malisie Ririe Fachrina , Daulay Rini Savitri , Sitepu Bobby Ramses Erguna
Published: July 2024

Background Sepsis in children is characterized by a dysregulated host response to infection and life-threatening organ dysfunction. Pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) is a severe complication of sepsis. Several known risk factors of PARDS are immunodeficiency, obesity, source of infection, and genetic factors.
Objective To describe the potential risk factors of PARDS in  septic children at Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, North Sumatera.
Methods This descriptive study using eligible medical record data from sepsis patients aged 1 month – 18 years was conducted at Haji Adam Malik General Hospital in 2020–2022. A total sampling method was used for subject selection. Patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics, mechanical ventilation modes and parameters, laboratory results, and outcomes were collected from medical records.  Patients were classified as having sepsis with PARDS if Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference (PALICC) criteria of ARDS was met.
Results Of 112 pediatric sepsis patients, 33.9% developed PARDS. The mortality rates for PARDS was 73.7%. Of the patients with PARDS, 57.9% had immunodeficiency, 60.5% patients had an intrapulmonary infection, 39.5% had an extrapulmonary infection, and 23.7% of patients had a suspected genetic disorder. In addition, 39.5% had good nutritional status, followed by 21.1% with obese.
Conclusion The majority of patients with PARDS have intrapulmonary infection and immunodeficiency. Some of patients with PARDS have suspected genetic disorders and well nourished.
Hair zinc level and autism spectrum disorder in children
Authors: Windiani I Gusti Ayu Trisna , Adnyana I Gusti Agung Ngurah Sugitha , Pratiwi Ni Luh Putu Sukma , Hapsari Ida Ayu Nyoman Dian Permana
Published: July 2024

Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders. In children with ASD, the neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders are characterized by impaired quality of interaction, communication, and social imagination, with limited interest and repetitive behavior. Various studies have found that the mean zinc level is lower in children with ASD than in children without ASD, especially in the low functioning autism.
Objective To compare hair zinc level in children with and without ASD.
Methods This case-control study included children with ASD and controls without ASD. Subjects were children under 5 years old who came to Prof I.G.N.G. Ngoerah Hospital and Masadini Clinic in Denpasar. Hair zinc cut-off level was determined by the area under curve (AUC) based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.
Results A total of 128 subjects consisted of 64 cases and 64 controls, with a mean age of 4 (SD 0.8) years. Most subjects were male (76%); 82.3% were well-nourished. The mean maternal age at delivery was 28.82 (SD 3.2) years. Subjects’ mean hair zinc level was 87.9 (SD 231.1) ?g/g. Bivariate analysis with Chi-square test revealed that children with hair zinc concentration of <33.88 ?g/g were 22.19 times more likely to have ASD than those with higher zinc levels (OR 22.19; 95%CI 8.02 to 42.09; P<0.001).
Conclusion Low hair zinc level is more likely to occur in children with ASD than in children without ASD.
Circumcision in subject with hemophilia: the Yogyakarta Method
Authors: Widjajanto Pudjo Hagung , Hadi Nurul , Saputro Ivan Onggo , Wibowo Agus , Budiono Nur , Tusino Agus , Sutowo David Wijaya
Published: July 2024

Background Circumcision is one of the most common surgical procedures in boys in Indonesia. In cases patient with hemophilia (PWH), doctors tend to avoid this procedure due to increased bleeding tendency. In 2007, we developed a protocol for clotting factor concentrate (CFC) administration for circumcision in SWH, namely, the “Yogyakarta Method.”
Objective To evaluate the outcomes of the Yogyakarta Method for circumcising PWH.
Methods This descriptive study was based on medical records of PWH who underwent circumcision at Dr. Sardjito Hospital (DSH), Yogyakarta and 3 surrounding hospitals under DSH supervision from 2008-2017 and 2018-2022. Diagnoses of hemophilia were based on clinical findings and factor assays. Subjects with hemophilia A received factor VIII (25 IU/kg/dose) and those with hemophilia B received factor IX (50 IU/kg/dose) before, during and after the procedure. In addition, patients received tranexamic acid (15 mg/kg/dose). Circumcision was performed by a pediatric surgeon or urologist.
Results From 2008-2017, 28 PWH underwent circumcision, 14/28 of whom were in DSH. Twenty-six patients had hemophilia A and 2 had hemophilia B. Their severities were mild (12 subjects), moderate (10), and severe (6). Subjects’ median age was 10.5 (5-19) years and their median CFC use was 8 (range 7-10) doses in hemophilia A and 4 (range 4-5) doses in hemophilia B patients. Three of 28 PWH had bleeding episodes after the procedure. Following the encouraging results from the initial 2008-2017 study period, most of PWH circumcised in 2018-2022 underwent the procedure in the same 3 district hospitals rather than at DSH (21/28 subjects), and had similar CFC consumption. Only 1 bleeding episode occurred after the procedure during the second study period.
Conclusion The Yogyakarta method is safe and sufficient to control bleeding in circumcision of PWH. This method is also suitable in a district hospital setting.
Case report of pseudomembranous colitis in a 3-year-old resulting from Clostridium difficile infection not associated with prior antibiotic therapy
Authors: Akram Lubana , Mazumder Md Wahiduzzaman , Begum Fahmida , Musabbir Nadira , Hassan Md Nazmul
Published: July 2024

Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC) is a serious condition caused by Clostridium difficile, frequently arising after antimicrobial therapy. In recent years, Clostridium difficile infection rates have been rising and more younger patients have been affected than adult. This case report is about a 3-year-oldboy  with clinical, laboratory, and endoscopic findings typical of pseudomembranous colitis, without a history of previous antibiotic therapy.
Threat to life or livelihoods: analyzing employment attitudes of Ukrainian war immigrants with Bayesian model averaging
Authors: Kochaniak Katarzyna , Huterska Agnieszka , Kwiatkowski Jacek , Błażejowski Marcin
Published: July 2024

This paper presents empirical research on the employment attitudes of Ukrainian households that fled to one of the largest cities in Poland, during a mass migration at the onset of the Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It identifies the characteristics of households with adult members immediately employed and those planning for future employment in Poland. Based on socio-economic migration theories and empirical knowledge, the paper delves into the role of the economic motive for these households’ migration. The study is based on household-level survey data collected in Krakow in May 2022. The Bayesian Averaging of Classical Estimates technique is employed to identify the determinants of household members’ employment and their plans in this regard. The findings confirm that financial reasons partly drove Ukrainian households to migrate during the war; however, public and private assistance played distinct roles in their prompt inclusion in the labour market and their planning for employment in Poland. Additionally, the findings allow us to conclude that knowledge of the Polish language consistently played a role in their professional activation abroad.
Determinants for post-pandemic recovery of macroeconomic stability: Evidence from European countries
Authors: Vysochyna Alina , Vasylieva Tetiana , Cieśliński Wojciech , Tinka Domonkos
Published: July 2024

The destructive consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic have negatively affected socioeconomic indicators and disrupted macroeconomic stability. The aim of the study is to determine the optimal combination of financial, socioeconomic, and public health determinants based on their relevance for the post-pandemic recovery of macroeconomic stability. For this purpose, principal component analysis was used to form an initial macroeconomic stability index by integrating such indicators as GDP growth, unemployment rate, consumer price index, current account balance, and trade volume. Next, the Granger test and panel data regression modeling was employed to identify the causality between the level of macroeconomic stability and a set of financial, socioeconomic and public health determinants. Finally, the financial, socioeconomic, and public health determinants were ranked according to their impact on macroeconomic stability. The obtained empirical results can be used to improve the financial, economic, and health care state policies in terms of strengthening country resistance to risks caused by a pandemic or other similar threats in the future.
Job satisfaction and work engagement impact on counterproductive work behaviors: Moderating influence of demographic characteristic of employees
Authors: Szostek Dawid , Balcerzak Adam P. , Rogalska Elżbieta
Published: July 2024

The purpose of the article is to determine how demographic characteristic (sex, age, length of service, type of work) moderate the impact of job satisfaction (JS) and work engagement (WE) on counterproductive work behaviors (CWB). The research objectives were met with application of a survey conducted in Poland. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the primary data. The proposed theoretical models were intended to determine how JS and particular categories of WE (vigor, absorption, dedication) affect organizational and personal CWB and subjective categories of such behaviors (abuse against others, theft, sabotage, withdrawal). We determined that JS was related to abuse against others, and WE tend to reduce such behaviors. There was also a negative impact of WE on CWB aimed at individuals (CWB-I) and a positive influence of WE on CWB aimed at organization (CWB-O). In turn, JS increased CWB-I, but reduced CWB-O. The article provides meaningful managerial implications for human resource management in Central European environment.
Forecasts of sustainable consumption in small economies
Authors: Kontautienė Rima , Stravinskas Tomas , Barkauskas Vytautas
Published: July 2024

Sustainable consumption is becoming an increasingly important aspect of our consumer society. The scarcity of natural resources is a growing concern in many countries. Considering the recent developments related to the promotion of sustainable production and consumption, as well as the introduction of the Climate Action Plan and the Green Deal at the EU level, it is vital to understand the trends of sustainable consumption in individual countries, which may influence overall consumption trends in Europe. The purpose of the article is to analyse the trends of sustainable consumption in small economies with limited natural resources and facing the problem of resource allocation priorities. Sustainable consumption reflects the demand side of sustainable consumption/production. Demand is the most important factor to focus on when planning economic activities, so its trends, in this case, sustainable consumption trends, must be constantly analysed. Exponential smoothing was used to forecast sustainable consumption trends. The research results show that favourable and unfavourable trends in decoupling environmental impact from economic growth and waste generation and management in small economies are forecasted. While resource and energy productivity increases show that small economies have begun to use their resources more efficiently, the demand and consumption of materials (and the associated environmental impact) continue to increase.
Markups and CPI
Authors: Kosztowniak Aneta
Published: July 2024

The persistently high inflation since the COVID-19 pandemic, including its strong upward trend in 2020-2023 in Europe and the USA, raises many questions as to the causes for such a situation. Evidently, the problem lies in the persistent inflation expectations of enterprises (in light of the overlapping effects of the energy crises and the outbreak of the war in Ukraine) and increased markups as the response of enterprises to future cost increases. Empirical data indicates that the dynamics of markups in individual economic sections are diversified like never before. All this creates a research gap, which this paper aims to fill. Therefore, the aim of this study is to diagnose the impact of markups on changes in the consumer price index (CPI) in Poland in 2008-2023, identify the markups with the strongest impact, and determine changes in the competitiveness of the economy compared to EU countries. Markups were divided into nine main groups as per NACE classification of economic activity. The impact of markups on CPI changes was assessed using the VAR model. The results indicate that markups in the mining and quarrying (B) and the real estate market service (L) had the greatest pro-inflationary impact on CPI changes and explained about 30% of all CPI changes in Poland. The research results are useful to those formulating the monetary policy, as identifying key sectors whose markup policies explain the changes in CPI is crucial to determining the optimal actions and policy measures.
Mitigating the shadow: Exploring taxes as solutions
Authors: Giedraitis Vincentas Rolandas , Stavytskyy Andriy , Kharlamova Ganna , Ulvidienė Erstida , Jorgenson Andrew
Published: July 2024

Nations attempt to attract major enterprises to their territories by implementing lower tax rates while simultaneously enhancing tax collection efficiency within their jurisdictional boundaries. In this study, we scrutinize the correlation between the Baltic countries’ tax systems and the levels of the shadow economy inherent to their respective economic landscapes. Our analysis indicates that tax reform can substantially influence diminishing the corporate shadow economy within a society. More specifically, our research delves into how economic growth can mitigate the corporate shadow economy, primarily driven by shifts in tax collections within Lithuania. Utilizing quarterly data from 2002 to 2022, we use panel regression and causality analyses as the overall analytical approach. The analyses uncover a complex relationship between various effective taxes and the extent of the shadow economy. Notably, we find that while an increase in the effective income tax rate is associated with a growing shadow economy, an uptick in the effective corporate income tax rate has the opposite effect, reducing its scale. Additionally, a rise in the effective VAT rate is linked to an expanded shadow economy. However, the influence of these effective taxes on imports has limited significance in regulating the scope of the shadow economy, likely due to increased tax evasion incentives. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of how tax reform can impact the shadow economy and underscores the need for more comprehensive strategies to address this issue.
The limits of expert support for business decision-making in commercialization of innovation: A case study
Authors: Raišienė Agota Giedrė , Raišys Simonas Juozapas
Published: July 2024

Innovations provide a competitive advantage for modern organizations. However, commercializing innovations can be a significant and costly challenge that requires specific knowledge and considerable resources. Therefore, companies need to prioritize the most significant ones. Responding to the relevance, the article examines enablers of innovation commercialization. In the study, innovation experts, including business consultants and professionals, gave priority to theoretically based factors of innovation commercialization using AHP and RII methods. The study found that expert decision support is limited in helping to make decisions. Experts agree on the least significant factors of innovation commercialization but disagree on the priority ones. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that the level of ambition within an organization's activities is a crucial factor in determining the priority of innovation commercialization. These results invite a fresh perspective on the expert assistance.
Catalysing responsible production: Evaluating the impact of EPR system on manufacturing enterprises
Authors: Zhidebekkyzy Aknur , Temerbulatova Zhansaya , Kotaskova Anna , Németh Péter
Published: July 2024

Responsible production has become increasingly vital in the global sustainability discourse, particularly in manufacturing. The extended producer responsibility (EPR) system is a critical policy mechanism that encourages manufacturers to reduce their environmental impact. Despite its growing significance, comprehensive studies assessing its effectiveness are sparse. Our research aims to address this gap by evaluating the influence of the EPR system on responsible production practices in European manufacturing enterprises. We employed the difference-in-differences (DiD) method to assess the impact, analysing panel data from 27 manufacturing enterprises across the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Estonia, Hungary, and Bulgaria, from 2010 to 2022. This method was chosen to mitigate endogeneity concerns. The results from the DiD analysis reveal a statistically significant positive impact of the EPR system on the circular material use rate, with an average increase of 10,5%. These findings indicate that the EPR system effectively enhances circular material use within the electronics manufacturing industry, a critical sector for advancing environmental sustainability.
Demografía y dinámica de la agricultura familiar en América Latina en el siglo XXI: estado de la literatura.
Authors: Requier-Desjardins Denis
Published: July 2024

El articulo da cuenta del adelantamiento de la transición demográfica en las zonas rurales de América Latina y de su impacto sobre la dinámica de la agricultura familiar en el continente, subrayando la presencia de esta problemática desde el aporte de Chayanov. A continuación, evalúa la relación entre la dinámica demográfica y los temas de debate que aparecen en la literatura sobre agricultura familiar, en particular las características de la “nueva ruralidad”, el tema del género y del empoderamiento de las mujeres y la cuestión del traslado intergeneracional de las unidades productivas. El contexto demográfico aparece como uno de los factores que condicionan la evolución de la agricultura familiar.
Una introducción a la economía política agraria: antecedentes intelectuales, momento fundacional y exploraciones contemporáneas
Authors: Chamorro Rosero Mauricio
Published: July 2024

La economía política agraria es una corriente intelectual utilizada como marco de referencia para los estudios agrarios y rurales que se realizan desde una perspectiva marxista. A partir de una revisión bibliográfica, este artículo presenta el recorrido de la economía política agraria desde sus antecedentes más remotos hasta algunas de sus principales preocupaciones contemporáneas. En este sentido, el artículo destaca que la economía política agraria se ha concentrado en estudiar los problemas originados por la contradicción estructural del capitalismo en la agricultura, superando las lecturas restringidas que acusan del atraso de la producción agraria a los escasos procesos de modernización