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Utjecaj pšeničnih vlakana na kvalitetu i prihvatljivost čipsa od nemasnog svježeg sira
No full textIn this study, the possibility of manufacturing cheese chips from enriched probiotic low-fat White cheese (without brine, fresh) containing 0.5 % and 1.5 % wheat fiber (WF) was studied to examine the effect of WF on chips quality. The study found that WF reduced the titratable acidity, fat, water activity, and salt levels of chips (pU ovom je istraživanju ispitana mogućnost proizvodnje čipsa od obogaćenog probiotičkog nemasnog svježeg bijelog sira (bez salamure), uz dodatak 0,5 % i 1,5 % pšeničnih vlakana (PV), s ciljem utvrđivanja utjecaja PV na kvalitetu čipsa. Rezultati su pokazali da dodatak PV smanjuje titracijsku kiselost, udio masti, aktivitet vode i sadržaj soli u čipsu (
PSIHOLOŠKI UTJECAJI I PONAŠANJE ULAGATELJA U FINANCIJSKOM ODLUČIVANJU: UVIDI IZ FINANCIJSKIH KRIZA
No full textTraditional financial theory assumes that investors make decisions based on complete and objective information. However, not all information is available in the financial market, and investors are not completely rational; rather, they act under the influence of various emotional, cognitive, and social biases, as confirmed by behavioural finance. This is particularly evident during crises when, influenced by news, media, collective fear, panic, or excessive optimism investors make irrational decisions that negatively affect market indices. The aim of this paper is to investigate psychological factors and patterns of investor behaviour during historical financial crises. The methodological approach combines a theoretical overview of behavioural finance with a comparative analysis of five of the most significant financial crises: the Great Depression, Black Monday (1987), the Dot-com bubble, the Global Financial Crisis, and COVID-19. The analysis supports the hypothesis that investor behaviour in crises follows recurring patterns of bias. The findings confirm that various biases significantly influence investment decisions, making them important for explaining deviations from rational behaviour during periods of financial distress.Tradicionalna financijska teorija pretpostavlja da ulagatelji donose odluke na temelju potpunih i objektivnih informacija. Međutim, nisu sve informacije dostupne na financijskom tržištu, a ulagatelji nisu potpuno racionalni, već djeluju pod utjecajem različitih emocionalnih, kognitivnih i društvenih pristranosti, što potvrđuju i bihevioralne financije. To je posebno vidljivo tijekom kriza kada, pod utjecajem vijesti, medija, kolektivnog straha, panike ili pretjeranog optimizma, ulagatelji donose iracionalne odluke koje negativno utječu na tržišne indekse. Cilj je ovog rada istražiti psihološke čimbenike i obrasce ponašanja ulagatelja tijekom povijesnih financijskih kriza. Metodološki pristup kombinira teorijski pregled bihevioralnih financija s komparativnom analizom pet najznačajnijih financijskih kriza: Velike depresije, Crnog ponedjeljka (1987.), dot-com balona, globalne financijske krize i COVID-19. Analiza podupire hipotezu da ponašanje ulagatelja u krizama slijedi ponavljajuće obrasce pristranosti. Nalazi potvrđuju da različite pristranosti značajno utječu na investicijske odluke, što ih čini važnima za objašnjenje odstupanja od racionalnog ponašanja tijekom razdoblja financijskih poteškoća
3D Roughness Parameters in Metal Surface Characterization
No full textSurface characterization plays a crucial role in understanding the func-tional properties of metallic components, particularly in the context of advanced manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing and powder metal-lurgy. 3D roughness parameters, also called areal topography parameters, deliver a richer and more detailed characterization of surface features than conventional 2D approaches, offering insights into roughness, waviness, and other irregularities that influence the mechanical and functional performance of materials. This paper explores the application of areal topography parameters in characterizing metallic surfaces produced through various processing techniques, with a particular focus on laser surface treatment, powder compaction, and additive manufacturing. The study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate parameters to ensure re-liable assessment of surface integrity, as well as their potential use in optimizing manufacturing processes. Special attention is given to the challenges associated with the standardization and interpretation of 3D parameters in industrial appli-cations
Fracture Failure Analysis of Rear Axle Suspension Control Arm in Automobile
No full textFracture failure occurred in the control arm of the rear axle suspension of a certain vehicle model. To determine the root cause of the failure, comprehensive analyses were conducted, including macroscopic fracture examination, microscopic frac-ture analysis, microstructural characterization, and hardness testing. The results indicate that the failure was caused by the combined effects of material defects, improper manufacturing processes, and service loading conditions. The funda-mental cause of the fracture lies in the initiation of microcracks at the interface between coarse Al-Fe-Si-Mn inclusions and the matrix under cyclic loading. The presence of a strength gradient induced by local segregation of Si further acceler-ated crack propagation along the inclusion/matrix interface. Under cyclic stress, the cracks propagated progressively through a fatigue striation mechanism and exhibited intergranular fracture in the precipitation-enriched zones along grain boundaries. Ultimately, these factors led to premature fatigue failure of the control arm
DODATNI JAVNI POKAZATELJI ZA UČINKOVITU DUBINSKU ANALIZU PRIJE SPAJANJA I PREUZIMANJA
No full textMergers and acquisitions (M&A) often fail due to insufficient due diligence that prioritizes financial and Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) metrics while missing non-financial dimensions. This study introduces a proposed framework of supplementary public indicators categorized into six areas: Technology, Human Resources, Customer Satisfaction, Regulatory Compliance, Market Positioning, and Organizational Culture. Using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with input from professionals, the study identifies Market Positioning and Customer Satisfaction as the most critical categories, reflecting their importance in mitigating risks and ensuring operational resilience. The study proposes an approach to improve M&A evaluations using publicly available data, addressing gaps in traditional methods. While reliant on public data and expert judgments, the framework offers insights for practitioners, with future research needed to validate its application across industries. Simultaneously, readers of this study should be aware of a limitation of this study, which is that the weights of indicators were determined based on the professional evaluation of three experts, which may introduce a certain level of subjectivity.Spajanja i preuzimanja (M&A) često ne uspijevaju zbog nedostatne dubinske analize koja daje prednost financijskim te okolišnim, društvenim i upravljačkim (ESG) pokazateljima, dok pritom zanemaruje nefinancijske dimenzije. Ovo istraživanje prikazuje predloženi okvir dodatnih javno dostupnih pokazatelja, svrstanih u šest kategorija: Tehnologija, Ljudski resursi, Zadovoljstvo kupaca, Usklađenost s propisima, Pozicioniranje na tržištu i Organizacijska kultura. Korištenjem Analitičkim hijerarhijskim procesom (AHP), uz doprinos stručnjaka, istraživanje identificira Pozicioniranje na tržištu i Zadovoljstvo kupaca kao najvažnije kategorije, što odražava njihovu važnost u ublažavanju rizika i osiguravanju operativne otpornosti. U istraživanju se predlaže pristup za poboljšanje evaluacija spajanja i preuzimanja korištenjem javno dostupnim podacima, čime se rješavaju nedostaci u tradicionalnim metodama. Iako se oslanja na javne podatke i stručne procjene, ovaj okvir pruža uvide za praktičare, a potrebna su buduća istraživanja kako bi se potvrdila njegova primjena u svim industrijama. Čitatelji bi također trebali biti svjesni ograničenja ovog istraživanja, a to je da su težine pokazatelja određene na temelju profesionalne procjene triju stručnjaka, što može unijeti određenu razinu subjektivnosti
Istodobno uklanjanje Pb, Ni, Mn i Cr iz fosfogipsa pomoću Na2EDTA: optimizacija i modeliranje primjenom Box-Behnkenovog dizajna
No full textPhosphogypsum (PG) is considered a by-product and is classified as solid waste generated during the production of phosphoric acid by the reaction of sulphuric acid with phosphate rock via the wet method. The presence of heavy metals in PG causes a range of environmental issues and poses limitations on its potential applications. In this study, the Box-Behnken design (BBD) technique was employed to simultaneously reduce concentrations of lead, nickel, manganese, and chromium in PG using Na2EDTA. This approach aimed to optimise factors such as Na2EDTA concentration, solid-to-liquid ratio (S/L), and contact time, while also developing a mathematical model. The optimal process points were identified through analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the response surface plots. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of PG before and after purification were analysed using XRF, XRD, and FTIR methods. Based on the results obtained through response surface design methodology, the coefficients of correlation (R2) of the experimental data and the second-order regression model for Pb, Ni, Mn, and Cr were found to be 89.75, 95.37, 98.18, and 94.53%, respectively. Generally, high R-squared values indicate that the experimental data are consistent with the data predicted by the model under optimum conditions: c(Na2EDTA)=0.055M, solid/liquid ratio=1:20gml−1, contact time=157min. Under these conditions, the removal efficiencies for Pb, Ni, Mn, and Cr were 46.65, 42.31, 67.02, and 77.9%, respectively.Fosfogips (PG) smatra se nusproizvodom fosforne kiseline nastale reakcijom sumporne kiseline s fosfatnom rudom mokrim postupkom, a klasificira se kao kruti otpad. Prisutnost teških metala u PG-u uzrokuje niz ekoloških problema te ograničava njegovu moguću primjenu. U ovom istraživanju primijenjen je Box-Behnkenov dizajn (BBD) s ciljem optimizacije uklanjanja olova, nikla, mangana i kroma u PG-u pomoću Na2EDTA. U tu svrhu optimizirali su se čimbenici poput koncentracije Na2EDTA, omjera kruto/tekuće (S/L) i kontaktnog vremena, uz istodobni razvoj matematičkog modela. Optimalne procesne točke identificirane su analizom varijance (ANOVA) i grafikonima odzivne površine. Nadalje, fizikalno-kemijska svojstva PG-a prije i nakon pročišćavanja analizirana su tehnikama XRF, XRD i FTIR. Na temelju rezultata dobivenih metodologijom odzivnih površina, koeficijenti korelacije (R2) eksperimentalnih podataka i regresijskog modela drugog reda za Pb, Ni, Mn i Cr iznosili su 89,75, 95,37, 98,18 i 94,53%. Općenito, visoke vrijednosti R2 upućuju na to da se eksperimentalni podatci slažu s podatcima predviđenima modelom pri optimalnim uvjetima: c(Na2EDTA)=0,055M, omjer kruto/tekuće=1:20gml−1, kontaktno vrijeme=157min. U tim uvjetima, učinkovitosti uklanjanja Pb, Ni, Mn i Cr iznosile su 46,65, 42,31, 67,02 i 77,9%
Terapeutski bioaktivni spojevi ljekovitih i jestivih biljaka uliječenjuhiperurikemije
No full textHyperuricemia, a widespread metabolic disorder, is marked by abnormally high blood uric acid concentrations. This condition arises primarily from either excessive uric acid synthesis, impaired renal excretion, or a combination of both. Beyond its well-established link to gout, hyperuricemia is also a contributing factor to various other health complications. While conventional pharmacological treatments offer therapeutic benefits, their adverse side effects pose potential risks to patients. This review explores common medicinal and edible plants with demonstrated uric acid-lowering properties, emphasising their active constituents. These bioactive agents function through multiple mechanisms, such as suppressing uric acid synthesis, enhancing renal excretion, and reducing inflammatory responses. By evaluating the therapeutic potential of these plant-based compounds, this study aims to provide valuable insights into alternative strategies for hyperuricemia treatment.Hiperurikemija, čest metabolički poremećaj, obilježena je neuobičajeno visokim koncentracijama mokraćne kiseline u krvi. To stanje nastaje ponajprije zbog pretjeranog stvaranja mokraćne kiseline, smanjene bubrežne eliminacije ili kombinacije oboje. Osim dobro poznate povezanosti s gihtom, hiperurikemija doprinosi i razvoju brojnih drugih zdravstvenih komplikacija. Iako standardni farmakološki tretmani pružaju terapijsku korist, njihovi nuspojavni profili mogu predstavljati rizik za pacijente
First trimester of pregnancy TSH laboratory specific reference intervals established by an indirect method
No full textIntroduction: This study established laboratory and trimester specific indirect reference intervals (RIs) for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
Materials and methods: A retrospective observational study was performed at a tertiary-care laboratory’s hospital during 12 months. Between February 2023 and February 2024, TSH results from 2166 women in their first trimester of pregnancy were retrieved. Only outpatients coming from primary care were included in the study. After applying exclusion and outlier criteria, TSH results from 1300 patients were analyzed to establish new RIs using the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles by the non-parametric percentile method. These RIs were verified by an indirect method analyzing 486 TSH results from a cohort of pregnant women that were extracted from April to June 2024, and a direct prospective study of 28 pregnant women from a primary care center. All TSH tests were measured using a Cobas 8000 e801 system (Roche, Basel, Switzerland).
Results: The TSH RIs were 0.60-4.33 mIU/L. Both verification methods met the requirements of the CLSI guidelines.
Conclusions: The indirect method could be used to establish and verify local RIs for TSH in first trimester pregnant women. This may reduce misclassification of pregnant women undergoing thyroid function tests
Lessons Learned from a Case Study in Switzerland – Use of a Double-Hitch Carriage for Yarding
Get PDFIn some specific yarding situations ground contact needs to be reduced to an absolute minimum. In such cases, a double-hitch system can serve as an alternative to helicopter logging. In the present investigation, a cable yarding operation using double-hitch carriages for selective thinning in intermediate slope was accompanied by a time and motion study to better understand the working steps and resulting productivity of cable yarding in this unconventional situation. The main aims were to develop a model that can be used to estimate the productivity of comparable yarding operations before their implementation, and to quantify the additional effort relative to the use of a cable yarder with a single-hitch carriage. The results indicated an overall productivity of 5.69 m3ob per productive system hour including delays of up to 15 minutes (PSH15), leading to yarding costs of 97.54 CHF (m3ob)-1 (in addition to costs for installation and felling). Compared to a system with a common single-hitch carriage, the inclusion of a second lateral yarding stage increased time and cost, contributing 13.30 € (m3ob)-1. Key factors affecting productivity were payload size, number of load pieces, and terrain difficulty, while yarding distances had minimal impact. Compared with traditional yarding, double-hitch operations were less productive and more costly, but they can still be considered a suitable alternative to helicopter logging in sensitive areas