bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical fitness of deaf females
Authors: Buśko Krzysztof , Kopczyńska Justyna , Szulc Adam
Published: May 2020

Study aim: The aim of the study was to examine the differences in physical fitness between deaf female soccer players and their deaf peers who did not practise any sport.

Material and methods: The research involved 13 deaf female soccer players and 16 deaf untrained girls. Physical fitness was assessed by a jump test and the Eurofit test. In the jump test, each participant performed an akimbo counter-movement jump (ACMJ), a counter-movement jump (CMJ) and a spike jump (SPJ) on a force plate. The following trials of the Eurofit test were performed: flexibility – sit-and-reach; static strength – hand grip; functional strength – bent arm hang (arm and shoulder muscular endurance); explosive strength – standing broad jump; and trunk strength – sit-ups (abdominal muscular endurance).

Results: Soccer players jumped significantly higher than untrained females in the ACMJ, CMJ, and SPJ, and developed significantly higher power of the CMJ. Relative power developed in the ACMJ and SPJ did not differ between the examined groups. Soccer players were physically fitter than girls who did not play any sport. Significant differences between the groups were observed for all measured trials except for the bent arm hang.

Conclusions: Hearing loss does not significantly determine the physical development or physical fitness of deaf people. Playing sports improves the physical fitness of deaf people in comparison with untrained deaf people.
Effects of Shantala massage combined with Sherborne Developmental Movement method
Authors: Pokorska Marta , Czechowski Marcin
Published: May 2020

Study aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Shantala massage during the classes conducted using the Developmental Movement method in improving the “with” relationship in healthy children aged 3 to 4 years.

Material and methods: The study involved 12 healthy children aged 3 to 4 years participating in SDM classes with their parents. The participants were divided into two groups. In the experimental group, Shantala massage was used during play based on the “with” relationship, whereas the massage proposed by Veronica Sherborne was performed in the control group. The Child Behaviour Observation Scale (SOZ-D) was employed to assess the improvements of psychomotor development. The study was a two-stage study, before the Sherborne Developmental Movement Method programme (initial observation) and after six months of classes (post-observation). The duration of the programme was 6 months. Classes were conducted once a week for 40 minutes.

Results: It was found based on the analysis of the results that the introduction of Shantala massage led to a significant increase in the assessment of child development on the subscale of emotional development.

Conclusions: The use of Shantala massage during SDM classes has a positive effect on emotional development of healthy children aged 3 to 4 years.
Joseph A. Greenaway Jr. Lecture Series on Law and Justice* Speak at Your Own Peril
Authors: Greenaway Joseph A.
Published: May 2020

This lecture given at Birmingham City University School of Law, March 21, 2019 considers the origins of the right to silence in the jurisprudence of the Supreme Court of the United States and compares the constitutional protections against self-incrimination with those of the United Kingdom. It notes that the effect of the changes introduced by the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act of 1994 is that there is now a fundamental divergence in approach between the two jurisdictions and concludes that as the twenty first century progresses, defendants on both sides of the Atlantic will be less likely to exercise their rights without consequence and then when they do choose to speak it will be at their peril.
IDD – A Platform Enabling Differential Debugging
Authors: Vassilev Martin , Vassilev Vassil , Penev Alexander
Published: May 2020

Debugging is a very time consuming task which is not well supported by existing tools. The existing methods do not provide tools enabling optimal developers’ productivity when debugging regressions in complex systems. In this paper we describe a possible solution aiding differential debugging. The differential debugging technique performs analysis of the regressed system and identifying the cause of the unexpected behavior by comparing to a previous version of the same system. The prototype, idd, inspects two versions of the executable – a baseline and a regressed version. The interactive debugging session runs side by side both executables and allows to examine and to compare various internal states. The architecture can work with multiple information sources comparing data from different tools. We also show how idd can detect performance regressions using information from third-party performance facilities. We illustrate how in practice we can quickly discover regressions in large systems such as the clang compiler.
An Indonesian Hoax News Detection System Using Reader Feedback and Naïve Bayes Algorithm
Authors: Zaman Badrus , Justitia Army , Sani Kretawiweka Nuraga , Purwanti Endah
Published: May 2020

Hoax news in Indonesia spread at an alarming rate. To reduce this, hoax news detection system needs to be created and put into practice. Such a system may use readers’ feedback and Naïve Bayes algorithm, which is used to verify news. Overtime, by using readers’ feedback, database corpus will continue to grow and could improve system performance. The current research aims to reach this. System performance evaluation is carried out under two conditions ‒ with and without sources (URL). The system is able to detect hoax news very well under both conditions. The highest precision, recall and f-measure values when including URL are 0.91, 1, and 0.95 respectively. Meanwhile, the highest value of precision, recall and f-measure without URL are 0.88, 1 and 0.94, respectively.
Robust Gain-Scheduled PID Control: A Parameter Dependent BMI Solution
Authors: Shao Pengyuan , Wu Jin , Ma Songhui
Published: May 2020

In control practices, problems of parametric or time-varying uncertainties must be dealt with. Robust control based on norm theory and convex and non-convex optimization algorithms is a powerful tool to solve these problems in theory, but it is employed rarely in applications. In most engineering cases, Proportional-Integration-Derivative (PID) control is still the most popular method for its easy-to-tune and controllable properties. The control method proposed in this paper integrates the PID control into robust control formulation as a robust Structured Static Output Feedback (SSOF) problem of Linear-Parameter-Varying (LPV) systems, which can be converted into a Parameter Dependent Bilinear-Matrix-Inequality (PDBMI) optimization problem. A convex-concave decomposition based method is given to solve the proposed PDBMI problem. The proposed solution has a simple structure in PID form and can guarantee stability and robustness of the system being controlled in the whole operation range with less conservativeness than existing solution.
Accuracy of the CM Carbide Method When Testing Counter-Floors Used in the Construction Industry
Authors: Trochonowicz Maciej , Szostak Bartosz , Lackorzyński Marek
Published: May 2020

Special requirements are placed on finishing materials and foundations for these materials. The technical datasheets for wooden floors contain detailed moisture guidelines regarding counter-floors for these materials. To check the moisture level, the carbide method (CM method) is recommended by manufacturers and many specialists. The authors of the paper performed moisture tests for various counter-floors (anhydrite and cement jointless floors, cement-sand mixtures) using the direct gravimetric (laboratory) method and the carbide method. Test results were collected and analyzed.
Corporate volunteering in the large enterprises’ social mission – the case of a post-Soviet Russian industrial region
Authors: Pevnaya Maria , Cernicova-Buca Mariana
Published: May 2020

The paper focuses on the main features of corporate volunteering in companies from the Sverdlovsk region (Russian Federation), with a population surpassing 4.5 million inhabitants. Corporate volunteering is analyzed in the context of the trend characteristic for the post-Soviet space. The article systematizes approaches to the definition and study of this phenomenon, implemented by researchers from different countries. The main goal of the article is to identify the specific features of corporate volunteering in a large Russian region, considered typical for industrial territories in post-Soviet areas, seen through the social value that local communities attribute to corporate volunteering. The paper is based on the results of a public opinion poll and structured interviews, carried out in the Sverdlovsk region, where there is a concentration of enterprises of “hard” industries. The responses obtained in the poll were further subjected to analysis using statistical methods. The data are supplemented with information collected through the qualitative interviews. Interviewed experts are the top managers of enterprises and the deputy directors for HR, GR, or social issues. The study shows that in Russian industrial cities, where large enterprises are the main employers for most residents, many questions on the implementation of social policy fall under the responsibility of these enterprises, and not of the local government. Researchers argue that corporate volunteering is not widespread in the large Russian regions. It most often develops within the framework of event planning and environmental projects, managed by enterprises in cooperation with social and cultural institutions of local communities and not with the non-profit sector. The traditions of the organization of mass social work formed during the socialist period are still deeply rooted in enterprises, and managers rarely identify volunteering as a new managerial tool, thus being untangled from the global trend of promoting corporate volunteerism as a means of building corporate culture.
Influence of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor ramipril on indicators of tubular kidney lesion in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis
Authors: Dolinna Mariia O. , Svyntozelskyi Oleksandr O.
Published: May 2020

To research and deepen the understanding of the links between morphological tubular kidney lesion parameters and serum markers – neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and interleukin-18 (IL-18), in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) with saved renal function, as well as to estimate therapeutic correction of identified changes using ACE inhibitor ramipril. The diagnosis of “chronic glomerulonephritis” was verified based on clinical, laboratory and morphological data. Patients were divided into 2 clinical groups: patients with CGN and arterial hypertension (AH) and without AH. We used the data of renal biopsies to analyze the indicators of tubular kidney lesion in patients with CGN. Levels of serum NGAL and IL-18 were measured by means of ELISA kits. Treatment of patients was carried out over 24 weeks using the ACE inhibitor ramipril. The average daily dose of ramipril for the entire treatment period for patients with AH was 12.8±5.6 mg, patients of the second group – without AH, were treated with ramipril at a dose of 2.5 mg. On the basis of rank correlation analysis, we demonstrated that the level of serum NGAL is directly correlated with interstitial fibrosis (r=0.65; p<0.05), serum IL-18 – with dystrophic changes in the epithelium of renal tubules (r=0.81; p<0.05).

Conclusion. Serum levels of NGAL and IL-18 are one of the most sensitive markers of tubular kidney lesion and have diagnostic efficiency up to 97%. A 24-week treatment with ACE inhibitor ramipril in patients with CGN with and without AH leads to a decrease in the levels of tubular kidney lesion markers.
The Relevance of the Master’s in Engineering Education at a University of Technology in South Africa
Authors: Moloi Kholeka , Ndege Maurice
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this theoretical paper is to explain the relevance of the Master of Engineering Education (M Eng. in Education) at one university of technology in South Africa, that comprises four distinct faculties. The paper is based on relevant literature review. The M Eng in Education creates the nexus between Engineering Sciences and Education as specific fields of study and research to enhance cross-boundary knowledge, skills, pedagogy and application. This is in line with the South African National Development Plan, Vision 2030, that accentuates the need for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the country to address the economy, develop skills, create jobs, eradicate poverty and unemployment towards a capable developmental state. Using a social constructivist lens, the researchers draw from their experiences while working with Engineering lecturers who enrolled for the Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDHE) programme, offered within the institution. From the interaction with the Engineers through the PGDHE programme, the researchers found that the teaching and research skills of these engineers fundamentally improved because they had to submit long essay-type assessments. The researchers conclude that the M Eng in Education will enable engineers to teach better and improve student learning within their classrooms.
Virtual Engagement: A Nexus Between Internationalisation and Decolonisation of the Curriculum in the PEESA III Project?
Authors: Cooke Lesley Anne , Lungu Bwalya , Samuels Lavern
Published: May 2020

Internationalisation and decolonisation are both prominent issues currently being discussed in South African Higher Education institutions. There is a strong impetus for decolonisation of curriculum design, development and delivery. Experience with the implementation of Collaborative Online International Learning at Durban University of Technology (DUT) has demonstrated that this approach to has immense potential for transformation of learning and teaching. The broader concepts of e-internationalisation and Virtual Engagement allow for even greater flexibility in fostering international collaboration, and opportunities for decolonisation of the curriculum. This paper briefly discusses internationalisation and decolonisation in general and at DUT specifically, and explores the opportunities that VE offers to address these imperatives in the implementation of the Personalised Engineering Education (PEESA) III Project.
Open Educational Resources - in Engineering Education, Case Study at UC/AGH, UB and ULBS
Authors: Duşe Dan-Maniu , Simó Ildikó
Published: May 2020

To change the educational scene in the epoch of the digital generation there is the possibility of using Open Education (OE) and Open Educational Resources (OER). The term “open educational resources” refers to resources with free access to use, adaptation and redistribution. The objectives of the research are to determine the degree of knowledge and use of OER in three Engineering Universities in three countries (Poland, Hungary and Romania) and to find out whether there is a relationship between the institutions in terms of knowledge and use of OER. The measurement is made by applying the survey method on a sample of n = 192. As a tool we use the questionnaire with 15 questions structured in three chapters: knowledge of OER; using OER; opinions about OER. In this analysis we summarize: the presentation of the degree of familiarity with some OER-related concepts, the use of special search engines, the use of free software sources, the frequency of use of OER and opinions on different types of OER that could be exploited in the future. For the description of relationship between nominal variable we use contingency tables and diagrams and compare the frequency data with the Pearson Chi-square test.
Preannouncement of New Products: Overcoming Individual Adoption Barriers
Authors: Pezoldt Kerstin , Correns Anne , Zajko Marian
Published: May 2020

The launch of innovative products very often encounters adoption barriers of consumers. A suitable communication with consumers is the new product preannouncement (NPP). It helps reduce adoption barriers and accelerates the adoption process. It is an important communication instrument for innovative SMEs. After defining NPP, the paper analyses the content structure of the main components contained in NPP from a consumer point of view. Based on the analysis of existing literature the authors found that there were only a few studies on the properties and quality of information communicated in NPP that influence a successful market launch of product innovations. Above all there is a lack of studies on NPP content in terms of a successful market launch of product innovations. The following analysis of the main NPP components enables to derive recommendations for SMEs on the communication policy for preannouncements and launching product innovations in order to reduce individual adoption barriers.
Vocational Employer-Sponsored Education of Employees of the Water Supply and Sewage
Authors: Babayev Vladimir , Roslavtsev Dmytro , Sorokina Kateryna
Published: May 2020

The provision of a complex development of an enterprise, the implementation of innovative projects, the introduction of the efficient management systems requires the assistance of the corresponding staff. The rates of engineering and technological development stipulate the demand for constant increase of the level of professional skills of the staff. The requirements to the systems of training and improvement in specialists’ skill are changing as well. Nowadays traditional requirements to the level of pedagogical staff and technical equipment are supplemented with the requirements of versatility, the ability to respond to technical innovations and socio-economic changes promptly, to foresee a possibility of individualization of the training trajectory according to the professional requirements of an employer. The experience of O.M. Beketov National University of Urban Economy in Kharkiv in cooperation with the public utility company “Kharkivvodokanal” on implementation of the project of industry-specific employer-sponsored training of an enterprise staff aimed at increasing the level of their theoretic and practical training has been described in the article.
Academia-industry Collaboration for Augmented Reality Application Development
Authors: Petruse Radu Emanuil , Matei Alexandru , Kayser Marco , Maier Michael , Ćuković Saša
Published: May 2020

Due to our previous experience in AR development, with this research project we propose to study how Augmented Reality (AR) can be adopted by an industrial partner and which are the major outcomes from which a company may benefit. For this purpose, we partnered with a forward-looking company willing to embrace the idea of implementing new technologies for industrial purposes. In this research we identified that the most significant impact which AR may have for our industrial partner is in providing remote assistance and for product exploitation and marketing purposes. For the latest we developed a customized AR application which is currently available on Apple’s App Store. By analysing the app analytics data, we found out that this application is a success in terms of marketing and not only. For the remote assistance AR app, we chose to use a commercial solution that can be adapted to fit our industrial partner’s needs. We also tested this application and found out that it greatly improves the communication between remote users thus dismissing the required assistance time.
Employees’ Job Satisfaction and their Work Performance as Elements Influencing Work Safety
Authors: Dziuba Szymon T. , Ingaldi Manuela , Zhuravskaya Marina
Published: May 2020

Job satisfaction has a big impact on how an employee performs his job. Both elements have an impact on job safety and employee perception of it. A satisfied employee devotes himself to work, performs orders better, cares for others and for himself. He feels safe in the enterprise. The aim of the paper was to assess employees' job satisfaction and their work performance with use of simply survey. In order to achieve this aim, a survey was conducted among employees of a chosen metallurgical enterprise who were asked to assess level of their job satisfaction. The employees defined their job satisfaction by referring to 20 statements describing this satisfaction and evaluating three factors that were used to compute the satisfaction index. The survey allowed for indication the general level of employee satisfaction.
Identyfication and Assessment of Occupational Hazards in the Working Environment of the Laser Cutter Operator
Authors: Palega Michal , Krause Marcin
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this article was to identify occupational hazards at the laser cutter operator's workplace and to assess occupational risk. The article also indicates the basic requirements for the analyzed workplace. Research methods included: observation of the workplace (using a checklist), interviews with the employer, selected employees and a health and safety specialist, as well as analysis of the company's internal documents. The occupational risk assessment carried out at work using the Risk Score method showed that there are many different risk factors for accidents or diseases related to the work performed at the position of the laser cutter operator. However, thanks to the preventive measures applied, they are in the analyzed workplace at an acceptable (acceptable) level.
Analysis of Road Safety in the Context of Horizontal Visibility Within Intersections – Field Studies
Authors: Brycht Natalia
Published: May 2020

One of the important factors on which road safety depends is adequate visibility. This article analyses horizontal visibility within road intersections. The visibility condition depends on many factors, primarily on the geometric parameters of road elements and the location of buildings, fences, vegetation etc., neighboring the road. The aim of the research presented in the study was to determine the current condition of horizontal visibility, on the example of twenty two intersections located mostly in built-up rural area along a provincial road near Czestochowa. The research was carried out by two methods (the analysis of satellite photographs and the visual method) and the obtained results were compared. The assessment of the security level was based on applicable regulations and technical guidelines. It was found that the results of the visibility assessment based only on the analysis of maps and satellite photographs are in many cases overestimated, due to the fact that many small elements not visible in the photographs are not taken into account and the occurrence of convex vertical road arches within the field of visibility. However, the main reason for the insufficient visibility at the many intersections is the fact that the geometrical parameters of roads and their surroundings were shaped in the past when the traffic conditions were completely different. It was also noted that road managers perceive this problem and take measures to increase safety within road intersections.
Simulation of the Stress-Strain State of Eccentrically Compressed and Tensioned Reinforced Concrete Beams
Authors: Karpiuk Vasyl , Somina Yuliia , Maistrenko Oksana , Karpiuk Fedir
Published: May 2020

The paper deals with the working peculiarities of the support zones of reinforced concrete elements subject to bending with due account of the eccentric compression and tension. The authors performed simulation of the stress-strain behaviour of the indicated structures with the aid of “Lira” software which results are shown in the graphical and tabulated form. The performed simulation allowed of tracing the work of the studied sample beams till collapse. Such approach made it possible to single out and generalize the main collapse patterns of the inclined cross-sections of the reinforced concrete elements subject to bending on which basis the authors developed the improved method to calculate their strength (Karpiuk et al., 2019).
Influence of Public Financial Support on the Process of Roof Covering Replacement and Safety of Civil Structures
Authors: Ulewicz Małgorzata , Liszewski Wiesław
Published: May 2020

This article constitutes an analysis of the influence of public financial support on the process of replacement of the asbestos-cement sheets used as a roof covering for materials safe for the environment. Commonly used asbestos-cement sheets, known under the commercial name of „Eternit”, should be removed of civil structures by 2032 following a program established by the Polish state. However, the carried-out analysis indicates that until present times the products containing asbestos have been properly identified in all municipalities across Poland, and also the amount of financial support that a property owner may obtain for removal of products containing asbestos is relatively low comparing to the costs of the roofing replacement. The cost of roof covering replacement falls within the range. 18.417 – 41.232 PLN/m2, so for the roof area of 100 m2 and considering the simplest roof structure (gable roof) the cost would total between 18.417 and 41.232 PLN. Therefore the existing system of public financial support providing funds for asbestos removal only will not affect the investor’s decision regarding replacement of roof covering and increase of civil structures safety. The replacement process of dangerous Eternit roof covering is slow and most probably the established programmed will not be completed on time.
Repeatability and Reproducibility Studies for Non-Replicable Tests
Authors: Mikulová Pavlína , Plura Jiří , Knop Krzysztof
Published: May 2020

The paper presents several approaches to gauge repeatability and reproducibility (GRR) analysis regarding non-replicable measurements. Measurement systems have to deal with processes in which, by the nature of the measured object or by the type of measurement itself, measurements are not repeatable. In these cases, each sample unit can be measured only once. Such situations are referred as nonreplicable measurement systems. The aim of the paper is to map out the current approaches being used in GRR analysis in various cases of non-replicable tests and compare each other in order to find out the suitable use of analysis application. Approaches used are subject to critical analysis so that its review can serve a useful base for analysis of different non-replicable tests. At present, it is desirable to bring the improving actions in order to obtain the results of high quality from such kind of measurements. Since different non-replicable tests can measure a different quality characteristic, it is valuable to bring the appropriate designs for various tests. Subsequently, this review will serve an outline how to proceed in analyzing the results obtained by non-replicable tests. Specifically, GRR analysis works with two known designs named as “Crossed” and “Nested” design, which statistical software normally use. Doubtfully, crossed design is suggested to use at certain cases and nested at other specific cases. This is assessed and improving actions designed.
Quality Analysis of the Mechanical Lever and Improvement of Non-Destructive Testing Process
Authors: Siwiec Dominika , Pacana Andrzej , Dwornicka Renata
Published: May 2020

The analysis of product quality is an indispensable action in developing enterprises. In case of mechanical products, the non-destructive tests (NDT) are effective way to make control. Non-destructive tests allow making assessing product quality without destroying it. Due to the dynamically growing requirements of customers and necessary, the improvement actions for demanding organizations important is to make a complex analysis of quality products. Such an action was proposed to a production and service company located in Podkarpacie region of Poland. The aim was to analyze the quality of the mechanical lever and improvement the process of non-destructive tests, in order to identify the source of nonconformity with using quality management techniques. These activities were to demonstrate that the sequence (NDT and selected quality management techniques) would allow the detection of unconformities on the product surface and also identify the source of this unconformity. In the enterprise, the quality research of the product using fluorescent and magnetic-powder methods was made. After identified the unconformity on the product the additional actions which could point the source of unconformity were not practicing. The proposition of improvement in the NTD was use appropriately selected quality management techniques (Ishikawa diagram and 5Why method) after identified the unconformity. The mechanical lever was tested, which its surface using the magnetic-powder method was analyzed. After identified unconformity (scratch) using the Ishikawa diagram, the potential causes were identified and four main causes were selected (i.e.: uncleaned pattern, impurities during production, poor molding mass, poorly carried out product production method). It has been shown that sequence of NDT, Ishikawa diagram and 5Why method allows to identify the unconformity on product surface and source its creation. This sequence could be practicing to analyze other product in production and services enterprises.
Student Teachers Building a Sustainable Future Through Constructing Equality in Visual Arts Education
Authors: Knif Leena , Kairavuori Seija
Published: May 2020

This article presents a discussion about primary school visual arts education from the point of view of social sustainability and in the context of teacher education in Finland. The study focuses on the student teachers’ understanding and pedagogic thinking of the equality construction in visual arts. In this case study the research data comprises the learning portfolios of student teachers (N=25) from the visual arts teaching course at the University of Helsinki in which they designed and carried out pedagogical workshops of visual arts to promote equality. The data were examined with the methods of qualitative content analysis. In this context, the student teachers found engaging elements in the aims and practices of visual arts to be the way to enhance equality. Visual arts education was found to offer a functional space for enhancing the agency, social skills and values needed in a sustainable future.
Efficiency of Corn and Poplar Biomass Saccharification after Pretreatment with Potassium Hydroxide
Authors: Dąbkowska-Susfał Katarzyna
Published: May 2020

Pretreatment is an essential step in the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into valuable products. It aims to increase the biomass susceptibility to enzymatic saccharification to generate fermentable monosaccharides. In this study, the efficiency of 2 % potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution used as a pretreating agent for various lignocellulosic feedstocks, such as corn straw, corncob, and poplar wood, was evaluated. The influence of the pretreatment time, which varied from 0.5 to 24 h at 50 °C, on the alteration of biomass composition was investigated, as well as the enzymatic digestibility. Finally, the overall sugar yields were determined. For corncob, the yield on average amounted to 453.9 ±18.9 mg·g−1 raw (untreated) biomass, regardless of the pretreatment time. The overall sugar yield for both the corn straw and poplar wood biomass increased with increased pretreatment time and ranged from 333.0 to 438.4 mg·g−1 raw biomass and from 123.2 to 215.7 mg·g−1 raw biomass, respectively. Based on the results obtained, the most appropriate pretreatment times for all types of biomass were proposed. The results of this study may be useful for the development of lignocellulosic biomass processing technology.
Effects of treatment with haloperidol and clozapine on the plasma concentrations of thyroid hormones in rats
Authors: Samadi Afshin , Ziaee Mojataba , Isikhan Selen Yilmaz , Ulusu Nuriye Nuray , Samadi Mahshid
Published: May 2020

Objectives. Psychoactive drugs are group of compounds used to treat severe mental problems, including psychosis, as well as other conditions. This study assessed clinically relevant side effects of haloperidol and clozapine on the thyroid hormones.

Methods. Haloperidol (0.05 and 2 mg/kg) or clozapine (0.5 and 20 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected to male Wistar rats for 28 days. The control group received 2 ml of physiological saline. A chemiluminescent immunoassay was used to measure the plasma levels of thyroid hormones.

Results. Plasma concentrations of thyroxine (T4) in rats treated with high-dose (2 mg/kg) of haloperidol decreased significantly compared to the control group (p=0.001). However, both low (0.5 mg/kg) and high clozapine (20 mg/kg) doses did not have a significant effect on the plasma concentrations of T4 and triiodothyronine (T3) (p>0.05). Neither of the compound had a significant effect on T3 plasma concentration levels (p>0.05).

Conclusions. Haloperidol and clozapine act via different mechanisms and may have dissociable effects on thyroid hormones. Following treatment with haloperidol, significant changes in T4, but not in T3, serum levels were observed. Haloperidol and clozapine had different effects on the thyroid hormone levels. These results indicate that antipsychotic treatment can contribute to the thyroid dysfunction. Therefore, greater caution should be applied to the antipsychotics use. The thyroid function of the patients should be closely monitored, while using these drugs.
Effect of amisulpride, olanzapine, quetiapine, and aripiprazole single administration on c-Fos expression in vasopressinergic and oxytocinergic neurons of the rat hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus
Authors: Kiss Alexander , Osacka Jana
Published: May 2020

Objective. The goal of this study was to reveal the impact of four types of atypical antipsychotics including amisulpride (AMI), olanzapine (OLA), quetiapine (QUE), and aripiprazole (ARI), with different receptor-affinity profile and dissociation constant, on the activity of hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus (SON) vasopressinergic and oxytocinergic neurons.

Methods. Male Sprague Dawley rats received a single injection of vehicle (VEH) (0.1 ml/100g), AMI (20 mg/kg), OLA (5 mg/kg), QUE (15 mg/kg/) or ARI (10 mg/kg). Ninety min after treatment, the animals were fixed by transcardial perfusion, the brains removed, and cryocut into serial coronal sections of 35 µm thickness. The sections were processed for c-Fos staining using an avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex and visualized by nickel intensified diaminobenzidine to reach black end product. Afterwards, the sections were exposed to vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OXY) antibodies and the reaction product visualized by biotin-labeled fluorescent Alexa Fluor 568 dye. The data were evaluated from c-Fos and AVP or OXY merged sections.

Results. The present study shows that all four antipsychotics applied induced c-Fos expression in the SON. With respect to the stimulation efficacy of the individual antipsychotics, estimated based on the quantity of c-Fos-labeled AVP and OXY neurons, could be a preferential action assigned to QUE over moderate effect of ARI and lower effect to OLA and reduced effect of AMI (VEH < AMI < OLA < ARI < QUE).

Conclusion. The present data for the first time provide an insight into the quantitative pattern of brain activity within the clusters of SON AVP and OXY cells in response to different atypical antipsychotics single treatment.
The altered circadian pattern of basal insulin requirements – an early marker of autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes in type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Pallayova Maria , Breznoscakova Dagmar
Published: May 2020

Objectives. The purpose of the present paper is to propose and introduce novel biomarkers of autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes that are relevant to the early diagnosis and optimal medical management of the patients who already suffer from type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods. We hypothesize and demonstrate on a case study that various organ-specific autoimmune endocrinopathies can result in lowered basal insulin requirements, leading to unexplained hypoglycemia.

Results. It can be hypothesized that hypothyroidism in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus may deteriorate glycemic control and can lead to an increased rate of hypoglycemia, particularly the overnight and morning hypoglycemia. Thus, the decreased requirements for particularly overnight basal insulin can be an early marker of the autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome-3 with subclinical autoimmune thyroiditis in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes mellitus. Further, it could be proposed that unexplained hypoglycemia during the late afternoon or evening could be an early marker of the autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome-2 with subclinical autoimmune Addison disease in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes mellitus. As a result, an altered circadian pattern of basal insulin requirements can occur, characterized by a decreased late afternoon basal insulin rate.

Conclusions. After exclusion of other causes, the unexplained reoccurring hypoglycemia can be a remarkable feature of autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes mellitus on intensive insulin replacement therapy.
Thyroid fibromatosis: A case report
Authors: Mehdizadeh Behnoush , Gharib Masoumeh
Published: May 2020

Objectives. Fibromatosis is a rare tumor with a prevalence of 2–4 per million per year. Its occur-rence in the thyroid is very rare and to the best of our knowledge only five cases have been reported in the literature.

Subject and Results. In this case report, we present a thirty-seven-year-old man without any significant past medical history, who presented with an anterior neck swelling and occasional cough for four months before admission. Sonographic-guided fine needle aspiration cytology studies reported a follicular neoplasm. Microscopic and immunohistochemical evaluation of the thyroidectomy specimen showed thyroid fibromatosis. The patient had no symptoms after surgery and no signs of recurrence after 2 years of follow-up.
Comparative Analysis of Retirement Benefits in Private Pension Funds and Public Pension System
Authors: Luković Stevan , Marinković Srđan
Published: May 2020

This paper identifies the conditions under which the private pension funds generate superior retirement outcomes compared to public pension system. The research objective is to determine the probability of success of the selected investment strategies in achieving the public pension system replacement rate, and the probability of the realization of extremely unfavourable outcomes. The methodology used in this paper includes the comparative analysis of simulated financial results of the four selected investment strategies implemented in the private pension fund model and the defined retirement benefits generated within the public pension system. For the simulation of the financial results at retirement, Monte Carlo simulation technique has been used. The authors have found that the success rate of the private pension fund in achieving superior financial results in comparison to public pension system is high, but only for the contribution rates higher than 10%. At low contributions rates, the extremely aggressive strategy is the only one that generates moderate success rate. Also, the probability of realization of extremely unfavourable financial results is lowest for the conservative strategy, which suggests that for the relatively high levels of the contribution rate, it is the most appropriate option for the pension fund members.
The Contribution of Monetary Policy to Mitigating the Consequences of the World Economic Crisis in Poland
Authors: Vujanić Vlado , Gligorić Dragan , Žarković Nikola
Published: May 2020

The economic authorities of each country seek to maintain the expansion phase through the implementation of various economic policy measures, namely, to prevent or mitigate the recessionary phase in economic development. In that context, it is of considerable importance to understand how monetary policy decisions affect the movement of macroeconomic variables. The paper aims to examine and evaluate the contribution of monetary policy to mitigating the effects of the global economic and financial crisis, using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag model, by analysing the impact of the real exchange rate, reference interest rate and money supply on the level of economic activity in Poland. Econometric analysis encompasses the period from 2006 to 2017. The research results suggest that there is a significant relationship between real economic activity and the real exchange rate both in the short and long term, but not between the reference interest rate and the money supply.
The Strategic Role of Local Community and Significance in Sustainable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Development
Authors: Grujić Milica
Published: May 2020

The stimulation of entrepreneurship development is one of the most effective local community developing strategies, therefore, entrepreneurship is regarded as the key initiator of innovation and technological development within a local community. Local community improvement leads to the improvement of the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem it belongs to. In this paper, the role of local community in entrepreneurial ecosystem is regarded through local community investment, since it’s considered one of the socially responsible investment strategies. The focus of the paper is the case study on the example of Cross Border Development Office between the Municipality of Zitiste in the Republic of Serbia and the Municipality of Sakalaz in Romania. The research focuses on the local community investment and the activities of the Office that have led to the improvement of economic and social indicators in the community as an entrepreneurial ecosystem actor
Career Anchors of Secondary School Teachers
Authors: Milanović Sandra
Published: May 2020

Career anchors represent the internal constellations of motives, needs and career goals of individuals. It is of great importance to identify person’s career anchor and according to it, to design career management practices. Furthermore, if there is congruence between career anchor and job related characteristics, many positive outcomes such as job satisfaction, organizational commitment, low turnover intentions, etc. may emerge. The aim of this paper is to identify which one of nine defined career anchors is dominant career anchor of secondary school teachers as public sector employees and how they differ in terms of demographic factors such as gender, age and work experience. In order to achieve this goal, empirical research was conducted using a sample of 44 secondary school teachers from one town. The descriptive statistic’s results indicated that the dominant career anchor of secondary school teachers is security – job tenure, followed by service and lifestyle career anchors. Non-parametric tests were applied for the assessment of statistically significant differences between demographic groups. Female teachers and teachers between 41 and 50 years expressed higher levels of importance of security – job tenure career anchor, but teachers with work experience lesser than 15 years showed higher levels of importance of security – geographic. The findings of this study add new contribution to the literature and career management practices in Serbia.
Competitiveness and the EU Accession Process: Can Candidate Countries Become Competitive as EU Countries?
Authors: Stanković Jelena J. , Džunić Marija , Milić Vesna Janković
Published: May 2020

Economic growth and competitiveness are usually analysed at the level of the national economy in traditional economic research. The problem of competitiveness within this line of thought is mainly regarded from the perspective of determining the sources of sustainable growth, which makes the economy more competitive than others. Competitiveness, therefore, is a multidimensional concept, which includes a range of factors, such as institutions, infrastructure, macroeconomic environment, market, human capital and technological development. Also, the process of joining the European Union significantly stimulates the development of the exact categories that are relevant for acceleration of the economic development. The aim of the paper is to assess the competitiveness of the candidate or potential candidate countries for membership in the European Union, through a comparative analysis of their competitiveness vis-à-vis EU countries. The results indicate that the competitiveness of the EU 15 countries, measured by Global Competitiveness Index and GDP per capita, is statistically significantly higher than the competitiveness of EU country group enlarged in the period 2004-2013, also compared to EU candidate or potential candidate countries. However, when it comes to the pillar of competitiveness related to the macroeconomic environment, according to the latest Global Competitiveness Report (2017-2018), the scores of the EU countries associated with enlargements in the period 2004-2013 are statistically significantly better than the EU 15 countries.
Export Competitiveness of the Economic Sectors of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Krajišnik Milenko , Popović Sanja
Published: May 2020

The competitiveness of the national economy, its sectors and companies is essential for economic growth and development in the conditions of the global market. This importance is especially expressed for small open economies, such as Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H). Bosnia and Herzegovina must strengthen its export position in the most competitive sectors, so that it can develop under conditions of increasingly liberalized world trade, with growing competition. The aim of this paper is to investigate the sectora structure of B&H exports, the competitiveness, significance and performance of certain sectors, in order to identify weaknesses and possible ways o improvement. For the purposes of this analysis, the Trade Competitiveness Map analysis methodology was used to assess the competitiveness of the sector, using the Trade Performance Index (TPI). The main aim of the methodology is to determine sectoral export performance, in order to facilitate strategic market research and monitoring of national foreign trade performance. B&H has the poor export sector structure, with the low level o international competitiveness, reflected in the large share of resource intensive products and low-value processing products with low added value Improving competitiveness could be achieved by strengthening the most competitive sectors, as well as by changing the economic structure towards the development of technologically intensive and highly profitable sectors o the economy.
Breaking the Testing Pyramid with Virtual Testing and Hybrid Simulation
Authors: You Shawn , Gao X. Shawn , Nelson Arlin
Published: May 2020

Virtual testing and hybrid simulation have become an important trend in airplane design and validation. The traditional Testing Pyramid (or Building Block) approaches that emphasis on uniaxial coupon test and full structure certification test are being challenged. Researchers are trying to use advanced testing and simulation methods to replace the Testing Pyramid approach.

Before physical testing, virtual testing can be conducted to simulate the physical test. Virtual model of the full testing system including controller, actuators, and fixtures can be constructed and validated. In this work, an example has been developed and validated to show the potentials of the virtual testing process.

Hybrid simulation is an approach of analyzing an analysis model and physical structure integrated system under realistic loading conditions. Hybrid simulation combines the lab testing with numerical analysis to explore the benefits of both methodologies. In this study, a hybrid simulation for a simplified airplane wing was conducted to demonstrate the process.

Virtual testing and hybrid simulation are alternative methods of Testing Pyramid approach. Full scale tests are still required for certification but the more that is known about the test article, the greater chances of success in the full-scale certification testing.