bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Valuation of Lithuanian Cities’ Smartness
Authors: Jurevičienė Daiva , Biekšaitė Augustė 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Research purpose. To assess the level of smartness of Lithuanian cities. The article systematizes the theoretical background of a smart city and its criteria, develops the methodology for measuring the level of smart cities and assesses the level of smartness of Lithuanian cities.

Design/Methodology/Approach. Methods used for the study: systematization, comparison, generalization, multi-criteria methods (COPRAS, EDAS and TOPSIS). The criteria for the assessment of smartness of cities were distinguished from the analysed scientific literature. Multi-criteria methods are used to determine the smartest city in Lithuania since they allow you to rank alternatives according to various criteria that are rendered dimensionless.

Findings. A multi-criteria assessment of the level of smartness of Lithuanian cities has shown that the capital city is leading. However, different results were obtained using different multi-criteria assessment methods in ranking the remaining cities.

Originality/Value/Practical implications. Usually, the smartness is analysed for major cities of the world, and Lithuanian cities were not assessed to the knowledge of the authors. The selected criteria for the assessment of the smartness of the cities represent the most often used (foreign direct investment; emission of the pollutant; the number of international immigrants; the ratio of people registered as unemployed to the working-age population; the number of crimes; the number of specialists trained at universities; the number of universities; the number of bus routes; the number of road traffic accidents; the number of IT companies and forest cover). The results could help for policy creators to make decisions on increasing the intelligence of Lithuanian cities, which would help to develop the economy not only in the capital but also in other important cities of the country and raise the quality of life of the inhabitants of those cities.
Travellers, Easter Witches and Cunning Folk: Regulators of Fortune and Misfortune in Ostrobothnian Folklore in Finland
Authors: Kouvola Karolina 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
This article* is about the distinct groups that practised malevolent and benevolent witchcraft in Swedish-speaking Ostrobothnia in late-modern Finland according to belief legends and memorates. Placing belief legends and memorates in Mary Douglas’ tripartite classification of powers that regulate fortune and misfortune illuminates the social structure of agents who posed a threat or regulated it by means of their supranormal powers. Powers that bring misfortune dwell outside or within the community, whereas powers that bring fortune live within it but nevertheless may be ambivalent and pose a threat to its members as well. Threat towards the community was based on the concept of limited good, in other words the belief that there was a finite amount of prosperity in the world. The aim is to paint a detailed picture of the complex social structure and approaches to witchcraft in late-modern Swedish-speaking Ostrobothnia.
Disease Burden, Mechanism and Management of Obesity – Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Shakoori Irfan Sharif , Ashraf Gohar , Aslam Fauzia , Akram Hammad 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The role of increased body mass index in general morbidity and mortality is well documented. This global public health issue continues to represent a major burden and threat to health systems and the population’s wellbeing. Global statistics show that the prevalence of obesity has increased about three times since the mid-1970s, and an upward trend is still observed, not only in developed but also in developing countries. We used several databases, including PubMed, ProQuest, and Google Scholar, to perform a literature search and review on obesity. Keywords such as “obesity”, “overweight”, and “BMI” were used in combination with multiple keywords such as “mechanism”, “factors”, “socio-economic”, “environmental”, “social determinants”, “management”, “treatment”, “non-traditional treatment”, “alternative therapies”, “non-pharmaceutical treatment” etc. and related phrases. According to the literature, the management of obesity is difficult due to the complex nature of this problem in terms of its course, complications, risks, and etiological factors. The role of alternative therapies in obesity management is still unclear, and further research is needed in this area. Recently introduced weight-loss and -management devices can also help in losing excess bodyweight. The present article summarizes relevant information related to obesity, collected from different regions of the world, and discusses diverse interventional approaches to treat obesity.
Cognitive Biases in Negotiation - Literature Review
Authors: Chmielecki Michał 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this paper is also to thoroughly review those studies in the management literature that focused on bias in negotiation and to ascertain a couple of new research trajectories that could be observed as the result. As a matter of fact, a human’s judgment making capacity and behavior could be greatly influenced by cognitive misperceptions thus affecting decisions in negotiations. Whilst Thompson (2006) analytically examined the effects of biased decision-making processes for negotiations, the intention of this paper is to fill the gap through a systematic assessment of the literature.

Methodology: I have provided a theoretical background on decision makers’ cognition in this paper to provide context and introduce the research; after which we take a closer look at the literature and discuss its results. Based on this, I noted that limited research, with alternate results were done based on the interaction between biases bothering on mood, culture, personality as well as education and experience on the negotiators’ judgments. Finally, we suggest that future research trajectories might be on multilateral and integrative negotiations, the role of third parties and a better comprehension of the cognitive bias and how to rise above it in negotiations.

Findings: Despite the fact that this topic is considered important, it is surprisingly under-researched. Author was able to identify the void and inadequacies of the literature identified in journal articles systemizing the intersection of negotiation studies, from cognitive biases studies, group decision making and from the decision making and judgment literature.

Value Added: This paper showed that there are only a handful of papers that focus on why, how and when cognitive biases influence negotiation process.

Recommendations: There is a great need for papers that focus on cognitive biases in the negotiation process.
The Willingness to Employ Immigrants in Polish Organizations
Authors: Maj Jolanta , Kubiciel-Lodzińska Sabina , Widera Katarzyna 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Objective: For a long time Poland has been perceived as a rather homogenous society. However, cultural diversity and differences started to become visible after 1989 and have gained on importance since then. Combined with an increasing shortage of native workforce, the question of immigrants’ employment by Polish organisations becomes a burning issue. We have therefore decided to determine whether the fact of employing immigrants or the intention to do so in the foreseeable future affects the perception of foreign workers and the necessity of hiring them

Methodology: For this purpose, we conducted a survey among 263 entrepreneurs from the Opolskie Voivodship.

Findings: The study has demonstrated a very strong, statistically-relevant correlation between the willingness to employ immigrants and the attitude towards an employee’s country of origin. Also correlations between other analysed variables have been found statistically relevant

Value Added: The paper is an introduction to a debate on the role of immigrants on the Polish labour-market as it presents the point-of view of employers and their willingness to employ immigrants.

Recommendations: It is recommended for decision-makers to facilitate access of a wider group of immigrants to the Polish labour market, especially since a significant group of employees recognises the upcoming issue of workforce shortages and the necessity to reach for foreign employees in order to stay competitive.
IFNγ production profile in turkeys of different immunological status after TRT vaccination
Authors: Śmiałek Marcin , Tykałowski Bartłomiej , Dziewulska Daria , Kowalczyk Joanna , Koncicki Andrzej 
Published: July 2020

Abstract

Introduction
Despite vaccination against avian metapneumoviruses (aMPV), cases of turkey rhinotracheitis (TRT) caused by aMPV field strains are frequently reported. Differences have been shown in the level of immune system stimulation after aMPV vaccination between turkeys that do and do not possess specific anti-aMPV maternally derived antibodies (MDA). The article describes the influence of MDA on the production of IFNγ in the spleen of aMPV-vaccinated turkeys.

Material and Methods
MDA+ or MDA− turkeys were vaccinated against TRT after hatching or on the 14th day of life. Spleen samples were collected 3, 7, and 14 days post vaccination for mononuclear cell isolation. Real-time PCR, flow cytometry, and the enzyme-linked immunospot assay were used to evaluate the levels of IFNγ gene expression, production, and secretion by cells within the spleen samples.

Results
Increased IFNγ gene expression was noticed after vaccination only in birds that did not possess MDA or possessed MDA at relatively low level (MDA+ birds vaccinated at 14 DOL). In all birds, an increased percentage of T lymphocytes producing IFNγ was recorded. The proportion of anti-aMPV IFNγ-secreting cells was increased only in MDA− birds.

Conclusion
Besides having a protective role, MDA are known to interfere with vaccination efficacy. The analysis of our results confirms that MDA can decrease the level of immune system stimulation after aMPV vaccination of turkeys.
Unsafe Ingredients Included in Malaysian Food Drug Interphase (FDI) Products: Toyyiban perspective
Authors: Aziz Atiqah , Bakar Norkartini Abu , Zakaria Zalina 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
There are more than 24.1 % of the world’s population are Muslim. Considering the religious preference, Drug Control Authority (DCA) requires manufacturers to declare clearly if their products contain materials of animal origin, as well as unsafe drugs. In general, Health supplements, herbal products, and traditional medicine are classified as “food-drug interphase (FDI) products. FDI products are products with a combination of food ingredients and active ingredients for oral consumption. FDI products are widely believed to be able to prevent or even cure many diseases. However, over the past ten years, there are various FDI products in Malaysia contain dangerous drugs. Hence, this study summarizes the harmful effect of listed unsafe drugs possess in the FDI products, the category of the product, and the type of claim. According to the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) recent report, there are 162 FDI products have been mixed up with illegal drugs which majority of them contain Dexamethasone. The most category of products that contain unsafe drugs is among traditional medicine products followed by health supplements, herbal supplement products, and dietary supplements. These products were commonly marketed to strengthen the veins & joint and pain relief, weight loss, sexual enhancement, energy booster, relieve sinus, and gout. Hence, an awareness of adulteration in pharmaceuticals is crucial to ensure the quality, safety, and effectiveness of the products towards human health.
Exploring the latent variables which support SMEs to become learning organizations
Authors: Bratianu Constantin , Prelipcean Gabriela , Bejinaru Ruxandra 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to explore the latent variables which support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in becoming learning organizations. These latent variables represent abstract ideas that cannot be measured directly in practice, and they need to be explored by using different sets of other variables or indicators defined specifically for certain research of the business environment. The concept of “the learning organization” has been introduced into knowledge management literature about 30 years ago, but due to its complexity and high level of abstractness, its implementation in real life or organizations produced insufficient results for developing a well-defined model and a convincing managerial approach. However, the attractiveness of the learning organization is so appealing that researchers continue to investigate the complex mechanisms and processes supporting it. Our research is such an effort in exploring the latent variables for the small and medium-sized enterprises from the North-Easter region of Romania in their drive of becoming learning organizations. Our research is based on a comprehensive literature search and a quantitative approach supported by a survey and statistical processing of the collected data. We processed 950 valid questionnaires obtained from 147 small and medium-sized enterprises from the North-Eastern region of Romania. Statistical processing was done by using specialized software. We perform a Factor Analysis with IBM SPSS v.19, and then a Confirmatory Factor Analysis with AMOS v.18. Finally, we obtained six latent variables that support the transformation of SMEs into learning organizations.
Radon in houses of Kowary – Sudety Mountains, Poland
Authors: Olszewski Jerzy , Walczak Katarzyna 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The presence of uranium makes the Kowary area characterized by an increased concentration of radon in the air and the living houses. Measurements of periodic radon concentrations in dwellings of Kowary were carried out three times in the last 20 years. It can be observed that 20 years ago level of radon concentrations in houses of Kowary were lower than today. Measurements carried out in Kowary over 20 years have shown that residents are exposed to radon concentrations, which often exceed 300 Bq m−3 – a reference level recommended by the European Union. The present geometric mean of radon concentration in houses of Kowary (260 Bq m−3) exceeds the geometric mean of radon concentration of buildings in the rest of Poland (142 Bq m−3).
Model and data management issues in the integrated assessment of existing building stocks
Authors: Honic Meliha , Kovacic Iva 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The increasing population growth and urbanization rises the worldwide consumption of material resources and energy demand. The challenges of the future will be to provide sufficient resources and to minimize the continual amount of waste and energy demand. For the achievement of sustainability, increasing recycling rates and reuse of materials, next to the reduction of energy consumption has the highest priority.
This article presents the results of the multidisciplinary research project SCI_BIM, which is conducted on an occupied existing building. Within SCI_BIM, a workflow for coupling digital technologies for scanning and modeling of buildings is developed. Laser scanning is used for capturing the geometry, and ground-penetrating radar is used for assessing material composition. For the semi-automated generation of an as-built BIM, algorithms are developed, wherefore the Point-Cloud serves as a basis. The BIM-model is used for energy modeling and analysis as well as for the automated compilation of Material Passports. Further, a gamification concept will be developed to motivate the buildings’ users to collect data. By applying the gamification concept, the reduction of energy consumption together with an automated update of the as-built BIM will be tested. This article aims to analyze the complex interdisciplinary interactions, data, and model exchange processes of various disciplines collaborating within SCI_BIM.
Results show that the developed methodology is confronted with many challenges. Nevertheless, it has the potential to serve as a basis for the creation of secondary raw materials cadaster and for the optimization of energy consumption in existing buildings.
Construction labor and skill shortages in Croatia: causes and response strategies
Authors: Ceric Anita , Ivic Ivona 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The construction labor is crucial to the construction industry, which is known globally for its creation of jobs at different skill and professional levels. The world's construction industry is currently experiencing a rapid recovery after the 2008 global crisis. This positive growth is also noticeable in Croatia. Nevertheless, the industry is experiencing a considerable shortage of skilled labor. First, this paper investigates the main causes of the current condition of the labor market through an extensive literature review and construction market analysis. Second, the case study of the Croatian construction labor market is presented. The longitudinal study of official statistical data shows that the total number of workers employed over the last 10 years has decreased significantly. There has been an increase in the number of unskilled workers and a decrease in the number of all other types of workers between 2016 and 2017. Following the literature review and market analysis, the response strategies for the problem of labor shortage in Croatian construction are provided and discussed.
Sandstone Composition and Provenance of the Nari Formation, Central Kirthar Fold belt, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Zahoor , Khan Abdul Salam , Ahmed Bilal 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The Oligocene-Early Miocene Nari Formation is widely distributed in the Kirthar thrust-fold belt. The formation in the study area is mainly consist of sandstone and shale. Field observations and detailed petrographic study reveal that these sandstones are mostly fine to medium grained, subangular to subrounded and poorly to moderately sorted. Detrital grains are dominantly quartz ranging in proportion 36-76%, feldspar 7-17% and lithic grains 1-13%, reflecting that these sandstones are compositionally submature. Quartz is mostly monocrystalline with some polycrystalline grains. Feldspar is dominantly plagioclase (albite) with some alkali feldspar (orthoclase and microcline). Lithic fragments are siltstone, mudstone and chert. Biotite and muscovite are present as accessory minerals. Heavy minerals such as apatite, tourmaline, and zircon are present in trace amount. The QFL diagrams show that the sandstones of the Nari formation are subarkose and lithic subarkose. The QtFL, QmFLt ternary diagrams and paleocurrent direction suggest that the sediments were transported from the Indian shield exposed to the northeast of the Nari Basin.
A numerical study on the effect of conductivity change in cell kill distribution in irreversible electroporation
Authors: Khorasani Amir 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Introduction: irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a tissue ablation technique and physical process used to kill the undesirable cells. In the IRE process by mathematical modelling we can calculate the cell kill probability and distribution inside the tissue. The purpose of the study is to determine the influence of electric conductivity change in the IRE process into the cell kill probability and distribution.
Methods: cell death probability and electric conductivity were calculated with COMSOL Multiphysics software package. 8 pulses with a frequency of 1 Hz, pulse width of 100 µs and electric field intensity from 1000 to 3000 V/Cm with steps of 500 V/Cm used as electric pulses.
Results: significantly, the electrical conductivity of tissue will increase during the time of pulse delivery. According to our results, electrical conductivity increased with an electric field intensity of pulses. By considering the effect of conductivity change on cell kill probability, the cell kill probability and distribution will change.
Conclusion: we believe that considering the impact of electric conductivity change on the cell kill probability will improve the accuracy of treatment outcome in the clinic for treatment with IRE.
Radiological and health hazards resulting from radioactivity and elemental composition of some soil samples
Authors: Al-Khawlany Abdu Hamoud , Khan A. R. , Pathan J. M. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Inspection of the radioactivity level in the soil is very important for human health and environmental protection. This study aims at evaluating the radiological hazards and pollution risks related to natural radionuclides and elements in the selected soil samples. Ten samples of soil were collected from different sites of Aurangabad-India and the level of radioactivity was measured using gamma-ray spectrometry with NaI (Tl) detector. Furthermore, the Physico-chemical properties such as pH, organic matter, electrical conductivity, moisture, soil texture, etc., and elemental composition of soils have been decided on using various standard techniques. The mean concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were 8.178, 17.408, and 96.496 Bq/kg, respectively, which are lower than the global average values of 35, 30, and 400 Bq/kg, respectively (UNSCEAR, 2000). The radiological hazard indices such as radium equivalent, absorbed dose, annual effective dose, internal index, external index, gamma index, excess lifetime cancer risk, etc., were calculated to assess the radiation hazards and compared with internationally recommended values which found to be lower than the permissibility limits.
The Pearson correlation was applied to determine the existing relationship between radionuclides and radiological health hazard parameters, as well as with the physicochemical properties of the soil samples. The major and trace elements presented in soils were measured and their mean concentration was ranked in the formed order (Mg>Na>Ca>K>N>Mn>Fe>P>Zn>Cu). The pollution risk parameters (Geo-accumulation index, contamination factor, degree of contamination, pollution load index, and potential ecological risk index) related to the elements in the samples were assessed and results shown that the soils under study are unpolluted with the measured elements. Generally, the radioactivity levels and pollution risks indices in the soils of the study area are within the permissible safety limits and do not cause any significant health threat to humans. Thus, the presented data provide a general background of the detectable radionuclides for the study area and can be helpful in the future as a reference for more extensive studies in the same field.
Work 4.0 Competencies in the Female Optics
Authors: Porubčinová Martina , Novotná Ivana 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Recently, the research in Industry 4.0 has been focused not only on the technological aspects of Industry 4.0, but also on the wellbeing of the workers and their autonomy and job satisfaction. In this paper, specific requirements related to Industry 4.0 implementation are reflected with regard to female element. Based on the analysis of the key challenges of the Industry 4.0 development, specific challenges in human capital of women are pointed out, such as e.g. the social skills, maintenance of non-routine jobs, and support to adaptation to Industry 4.0. The aim of the paper is to analyse if women in Slovakia are prepared for the of Industry 4.0 development in terms of digital access, digital literacy and digital attitudes (patterns of digital participation).