bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Diffusion of the Unassembled PetC1-GFP Protein in the Cyanobacterial Thylakoid Membrane
Authors: Kaňa Radek , Steinbach Gábor , Sobotka Roman , Vámosi György , Komenda Josef
Published: December 2020

Biological membranes were originally described as a fluid mosaic with uniform distribution of proteins and lipids. Later, heterogeneous membrane areas were found in many membrane systems including cyanobacterial thylakoids. In fact, cyanobacterial pigment–protein complexes (photosystems, phycobilisomes) form a heterogeneous mosaic of thylakoid membrane microdomains (MDs) restricting protein mobility. The trafficking of membrane proteins is one of the key factors for long-term survival under stress conditions, for instance during exposure to photoinhibitory light conditions. However, the mobility of unbound ‘free’ proteins in thylakoid membrane is poorly characterized. In this work, we assessed the maximal diffusional ability of a small, unbound thylakoid membrane protein by semi-single molecule FCS (fluorescence correlation spectroscopy) method in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC6803. We utilized a GFP-tagged variant of the cytochrome b6f subunit PetC1 (PetC1-GFP), which was not assembled in the b6f complex due to the presence of the tag. Subsequent FCS measurements have identified a very fast diffusion of the PetC1-GFP protein in the thylakoid membrane (D = 0.14 − 2.95 µm2s−1). This means that the mobility of PetC1-GFP was comparable with that of free lipids and was 50–500 times higher in comparison to the mobility of proteins (e.g., IsiA, LHCII—light-harvesting complexes of PSII) naturally associated with larger thylakoid membrane complexes like photosystems. Our results thus demonstrate the ability of free thylakoid-membrane proteins to move very fast, revealing the crucial role of protein–protein interactions in the mobility restrictions for large thylakoid protein complexes.
Fast Two-Stage Computation of an Index Policy for Multi-Armed Bandits with Setup Delays
Authors: Niño-Mora José
Published: December 2020

We consider the multi-armed bandit problem with penalties for switching that include setup delays and costs, extending the former results of the author for the special case with no switching delays. A priority index for projects with setup delays that characterizes, in part, optimal policies was introduced by Asawa and Teneketzis in 1996, yet without giving a means of computing it. We present a fast two-stage index computing method, which computes the continuation index (which applies when the project has been set up) in a first stage and certain extra quantities with cubic (arithmetic-operation) complexity in the number of project states and then computes the switching index (which applies when the project is not set up), in a second stage, with quadratic complexity. The approach is based on new methodological advances on restless bandit indexation, which are introduced and deployed herein, being motivated by the limitations of previous results, exploiting the fact that the aforementioned index is the Whittle index of the project in its restless reformulation. A numerical study demonstrates substantial runtime speed-ups of the new two-stage index algorithm versus a general one-stage Whittle index algorithm. The study further gives evidence that, in a multi-project setting, the index policy is consistently nearly optimal.
The Optimal Limit Prices of Limit Orders under an Extended Geometric Brownian Motion with Bankruptcy Risk
Authors: Hsu Yu-Sheng , Chen Pei-Chun , Wu Cheng-Hsun
Published: December 2020

In the Black and Scholes system, the underlying asset price model follows geometric Brownian motion (GBM) with no bankruptcy risk. While GBM is a commonly used model in financial markets, bankruptcy risk should be considered in the case of a severe economic crisis, such as that caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The omission of bankruptcy risk could considerably influence the setting of a trading strategy. In this article, we adopt an extended GBM model that considers the bankruptcy risk and study its optimal limit price problem. A limit order is a classical trading strategy for investing in stocks. First, we construct the explicit expressions of the expected discounted profit functions for sell and buy limit orders and then derive their optimal limit prices. Furthermore, via sensitivity analysis, we discuss the influence of the omission of bankruptcy risk in executing limit orders.
Non-Homogeneous Semi-Markov and Markov Renewal Processes and Change of Measure in Credit Risk
Authors: Vassiliou P.-C.G.
Published: December 2020

For a G-inhomogeneous semi-Markov chain and G-inhomogeneous Markov renewal processes, we study the change from real probability measure into a forward probability measure. We find the values of risky bonds using the forward probabilities that the bond will not default up to maturity time for both processes. It is established in the form of a theorem that the forward probability measure does not alter the semi Markov structure. In addition, foundation of a G-inhohomogeneous Markov renewal process is done and a theorem is provided where it is proved that the Markov renewal process is maintained under the forward probability measure. We show that for an inhomogeneous semi-Markov there are martingales that characterize it. We show that the same is true for a Markov renewal processes. We discuss in depth the calibration of the G-inhomogeneous semi-Markov chain model and propose an algorithm for it. We conclude with an application for risky bonds.
Marine-Derived Biologically Active Compounds for the Potential Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Bilal Muhammad , Qindeel Maimoona , Nunes Leonardo Vieira , Duarte Marco Thúlio Saviatto , Ferreira Luiz Fernando Romanholo , Soriano Renato Nery , Iqbal Hafiz M. N.
Published: December 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease with a prevalence rate of up to 1% and is significantly considered a common worldwide public health concern. Commercially, several traditional formulations are available to treat RA to some extent. However, these synthetic compounds exert toxicity and considerable side effects even at lower therapeutic concentrations. Considering the above-mentioned critiques, research is underway around the world in finding and exploiting potential alternatives. For instance, marine-derived biologically active compounds have gained much interest and are thus being extensively utilized to confront the confines of in practice counterparts, which have become ineffective for 21st-century medical settings. The utilization of naturally available bioactive compounds and their derivatives can minimize these synthetic compounds’ problems to treat RA. Several marine-derived compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can be effectively used for therapeutic purposes against RA. The results of several studies ensured that the extraction of biologically active compounds from marine sources could provide a new and safe source for drug development against RA. Finally, current challenges, gaps, and future perspectives have been included in this review.
Dynamic Deformation Behaviour of Chiral Auxetic Lattices at Low and High Strain-Rates
Authors: Mauko Anja , Fíla Tomáš , Falta Jan , Koudelka Petr , Rada Václav , Neuhäuserová Michaela , Zlámal Petr , Vesenjak Matej , Jiroušek Ondřej , Ren Zoran
Published: December 2020

The mechanical behaviour of three different auxetic cellular structures, hexa-chiral 2D, tetra-chiral 2D and tetra-chiral 3D, was experimentally investigated in this study. The structures were produced with the powder bed fusion method (PBF) from an austenitic stainless steel alloy. The fundamental material mechanical properties of the sample structures were determined with classic quasi-static compressive tests, where the deformation process was captured by a high-resolution digital camera. The Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) apparatus was used for dynamic impact testing at two impact velocities to study the strain-rate dependency of the structures. Two synchronised high-speed cameras were used to observe the impact tests. The captured images from both quasi-static and dynamic experiments were processed using a custom digital image correlation (DIC) algorithm to evaluate the displacement/strain fields and the Poisson’s ratio. Predominant auxetic behaviour was observed in all three structures throughout most of the deformation process both under quasi-static and impact loading regimes. The tetra-chiral 2D structure showed the most significant auxetic behaviour. Significant stress enhancement in all tested structures was observed in dynamic testing. The Poisson’s ratio strain-rate dependency was confirmed for all three auxetic structures.
Neuro-Fuzzy System for Compensating Slow Disturbances in Adaptive Mold Level Control
Authors: González-Yero Guillermo , Ramírez Leyva Reynier , Ramírez Mendoza Mercedes , Albertos Pedro , Crespo-Lorente Alfons , Reyes Alonso Juan Manuel
Published: December 2020

Good slow disturbances attenuation in a mold level control with stopper rod is very important for avoiding several product defects and keeping down casting interruptions. The aim of this work is to improve the accuracy of the diagnosis and compensation of an adaptive mold level control method for slow disturbances related to changes of stopper rod. The advantages offered by the architecture, called Adaptive-Network-based Fuzzy Inference System, were used for training a previous model. This allowed learning based on the process data from a steel cast case study, representing all intensity levels of valve erosion and clogging. The developed model has high accuracy in its functional relationship between two compact input variables and the compensation coefficient of the valve gain variations. The future implementation of this proposal will consider a combined training of the model, which would be very convenient for maintaining good accuracy in the Fuzzy Inference System using new data from the process.
Antimicrobial Potential of Food Lactic Acid Bacteria: Bioactive Peptide Decrypting from Caseins and Bacteriocin Production
Authors: Nebbia Stefano , Lamberti Cristina , Lo Bianco Giuliana , Cirrincione Simona , Laroute Valerie , Cocaign-Bousquet Muriel , Cavallarin Laura , Giuffrida Maria Gabriella , Pessione Enrica
Published: December 2020

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) potential in the food industry and in the biotechnological sector is a well-established interest. LAB potential in counteracting especially food-borne infections has received growing attention, but despite being a road full of promises is yet poorly explored. Furthermore, the ability of LAB to produce antimicrobial compounds, both by ribosomal synthesis and by decrypting them from proteins, is of high value when considering the growing impact of multidrug resistant strains. The antimicrobial potential of 14 food-derived lactic acid bacteria strains has been investigated in this study. Among them, four strains were able to counteract Listeria monocytogenes growth: Lactococcus lactis SN12 and L. lactis SN17 by high lactic acid production, whereas L. lactis 41FLL3 and Lactobacillus sakei I151 by Nisin Z and Sakacin P production, respectively. Strains Lactococcus lactis MG1363, Lactobacillus rhamnosus 17D10 and Lactobacillus helveticus 4D5 were tested and selected for their potential attitude to hydrolyze caseins. All the strains were able to release bioactive peptides with already known antimicrobial, antihypertensive and opioid activities. These features render these strains or their bioactive molecules suitable for use in food as biocontrol agents, or as nutraceutical supplements to treat mild disorders such as moderate hypertension and children insomnia. These results highlight once again that LAB potential in ensuring food safety, food nutraceutical value and ultimately in favoring human health is still underexplored and underexploited.
Whole Genome Sequence-Based Prediction of Resistance Determinants in High-Level Multidrug-Resistant Campylobacter jejuni Isolates in Lithuania
Authors: Aksomaitiene Jurgita , Novoslavskij Aleksandr , Kudirkiene Egle , Gabinaitiene Ausra , Malakauskas Mindaugas
Published: December 2020

Spread of antibiotic resistance via mobile genetic elements associates with transfer of genes providing resistance against multiple antibiotics. Use of various comparative genomics analysis techniques enables to find intrinsic and acquired genes associated with phenotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Campylobacter jejuni genome sequences with exceptionally high-level multidrug resistance. In this study, we used whole genome sequences of seven C. jejuni to identify isolate-specific genomic features associated with resistance and virulence determinants and their role in multidrug resistance (MDR). All isolates were phenotypically highly resistant to tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone (MIC range from 64 to ≥256 µg/mL). Besides, two C. jejuni isolates were resistant to gentamicin, and one was resistant to erythromycin. The extensive drug-resistance profiles were confirmed for the two C. jejuni isolates assigned to ST-4447 (CC179). The most occurring genetic antimicrobial-resistance determinants were tetO, beta-lactamase, and multidrug efflux pumps. In this study, mobile genetic elements (MGEs) were detected in genomic islands carrying genes that confer resistance to MDR, underline their importance for disseminating antibiotic resistance in C. jejuni. The genomic approach showed a diverse distribution of virulence markers, including both plasmids and phage sequences that serve as horizontal gene transfer tools. The study findings describe in silico prediction of AMR and virulence genetics determinants combined with phenotypic AMR detection in multidrug-resistant C. jejuni isolates from Lithuania.
Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beer Modulate Plasma and Macrophage microRNAs Differently in a Pilot Intervention in Humans with Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Daimiel Lidia , Micó Víctor , Díez-Ricote Laura , Ruiz-Valderrey Paloma , Istas Geoffrey , Rodríguez-Mateos Ana , Ordovás José María
Published: December 2020

Beer is a popular beverage and some beneficial effects have been attributed to its moderate consumption. We carried out a pilot study to test if beer and non-alcoholic beer consumption modify the levels of a panel of 53 cardiometabolic microRNAs in plasma and macrophages. Seven non-smoker men aged 30–65 with high cardiovascular risk were recruited for a non-randomised cross-over intervention consisting of the ingestion of 500 mL/day of beer or non-alcoholic beer for 14 days with a 7-day washout period between interventions. Plasma and urine isoxanthohumol were measured to assess compliance with interventions. Monocytes were isolated and differentiated into macrophages, and plasma and macrophage microRNAs were analysed by quantitative real-time PCR. Anthropometric, biochemistry and dietary parameters were also measured. We found an increase in plasma miR-155-5p, miR-328-3p, and miR-92a-3p after beer and a decrease after non-alcoholic beer consumption. Plasma miR-320a-3p levels decreased with both beers. Circulating miR-320a-3p levels correlated with LDL-cholesterol. We found that miR-17-5p, miR-20a-5p, miR-145-5p, miR-26b-5p, and miR-223-3p macrophage levels increased after beer and decreased after non-alcoholic beer consumption. Functional analyses suggested that modulated microRNAs were involved in catabolism, nutrient sensing, Toll-like receptors signalling and inflammation. We concluded that beer and non-alcoholic beer intake modulated differentially plasma and macrophage microRNAs. Specifically, microRNAs related to inflammation increased after beer consumption and decreased after non-alcoholic beer consumption.
Cyperus esculentus L. Tubers (Tiger Nuts) Protect Epithelial Barrier Function in Caco-2 Cells Infected by Salmonella Enteritidis and Promote Lactobacillus plantarum Growth
Authors: Moral-Anter David , Campo-Sabariz Joan , Ferrer Ruth , Martín-Venegas Raquel
Published: December 2020

Cyperus esculentus L. tubers (tiger nuts) contain different compounds with several intestinal health-promoting properties. Here, we studied the capacity of tiger nuts from Valencia, Spain, to prevent epithelial barrier function disruption induced by Salmonella enteritidis in Caco-2 cell cultures. Paracellular permeability was assessed by transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and tight junction protein immunolocalization. Moreover, the effect of tiger nuts on S. enteritidis agglutination, oxidative stress, and Lactobacillus plantarum growth was tested. Compared to controls, tiger nuts partially restored TER in S. enteritidis-infected cultures, an effect confirmed by immunolocalization of tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin. The results also revealed that this protective effect may be associated with the capacity to agglutinate the pathogen, restore TER in TNFα-stimulated cultures, and reduce reactive oxygen species in H2O2-stimulated cultures. Moreover, they favor L. plantarum growth. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the tiger nut protects epithelial barrier function by reducing bacterial invasion, along with counteracting TNFα and H2O2 effects, thus giving an additional value to this tuber as a potential functional food.
Intensity and Coherence Characteristics of a Radial Phase-Locked Multi-Gaussian Schell-Model Vortex Beam Array in Atmospheric Turbulence
Authors: Zhao Jialu , Wang Guiqiu , Ma Xiaolu , Zhong Haiyang , Yin Hongming , Wang Yaochuan , Liu Dajun
Published: December 2020

The theoretical descriptions for a radial phase-locked multi-Gaussian Schell-model vortex (RPLMGSMV) beam array is first given. The normalized intensity and coherence distributions of a RPLMGSMV beam array propagating in free space and atmospheric turbulence are illustrated and analyzed. The results show that a RPLMGSMV beam array with larger total number N or smaller coherence length σ can evolve into a beam with better flatness when the beam array translating into the flat-topped profile at longer distance z and the flatness of the flat-topped intensity distribution can be destroyed by the atmospheric turbulence at longer distance z. The coherence distribution of a RPLMGSMV beam array in atmospheric turbulence at the longer distance will have Gaussian distribution. The research results will be useful in free space optical communication using a RPLMGSMV beam array.
The Role of Aquaporin Overexpression in the Modulation of Transcription of Heavy Metal Transporters under Cadmium Treatment in Poplar
Authors: Neri Andrea , Traversari Silvia , Andreucci Andrea , Francini Alessandra , Sebastiani Luca
Published: December 2020

Populus alba ‘Villafranca’ clone is well-known for its tolerance to cadmium (Cd). To determine the mechanisms of Cd tolerance of this species, wild-type (wt) plants were compared with transgenic plants over-expressing an aquaporin (aqua1, GenBank GQ918138). Plants were maintained in hydroponic conditions with Hoagland’s solution and treated with 10 µM of Cd, renewed every 5 d. The transcription levels of heavy metal transporter genes (PaHMA2, PaNRAMP1.3, PaNRAMP2, PaNRAMP3.1, PaNRAMP3.2, PaABCC9, and PaABCC13) were analyzed at 1, 7, and 60 d of treatment. Cd application did not induce visible toxicity symptoms in wt and aqua1 plants even after 2 months of treatment confirming the high tolerance of this poplar species to Cd. Most of the analyzed genes showed in wt plants a quick response in transcription at 1 d of treatment and an adaptation at 60 d. On the contrary, a lower transcriptional response was observed in aqua1 plants in concomitance with a higher Cd concentration in medial leaves. Moreover, PaHMA2 showed at 1 d an opposite trend within organs since it was up-regulated in root and stem of wt plants and in leaves of aqua1 plants. In summary, aqua1 overexpression in poplar improved Cd translocation suggesting a lower Cd sensitivity of aqua1 plants. This different response might be due to a different transcription of PaNRAMP3 genes that were more transcribed in wt line because of the importance of this gene in Cd compartmentalization.
Piezoelectric Direct Discharge: Devices and Applications
Authors: Korzec Dariusz , Hoppenthaler Florian , Nettesheim Stefan
Published: December 2020

The piezoelectric direct discharge (PDD) is a comparatively new type of atmospheric pressure gaseous discharge for production of cold plasma. The generation of such discharge is possible using the piezoelectric cold plasma generator (PCPG) which comprises the resonant piezoelectric transformer (RPT) with voltage transformation ratio of more than 1000, allowing for reaching the output voltage >10 kV at low input voltage, typically below 25 V. As ionization gas for the PDD, either air or various gas mixtures are used. Despite some similarities with corona discharge and dielectric barrier discharge, the ignition of micro-discharges directly at the ceramic surface makes PDD unique in its physics and application potential. The PDD is used directly, in open discharge structures, mainly for treatment of electrically nonconducting surfaces. It is also applied as a plasma bridge to bias different excitation electrodes, applicable for a broad range of substrate materials. In this review, the most important architectures of the PDD based discharges are presented. The operation principle, the main operational characteristics and the example applications, exploiting the specific properties of the discharge configurations, are discussed. Due to the moderate power achievable by PCPG, of typically less than 10 W, the focus of this review is on applications involving thermally sensitive materials, including food, organic tissues, and liquids.
Demineralization of Food Waste Biochar for Effective Alleviation of Alkali and Alkali Earth Metal Species
Authors: Jeong Yoonah , Lee Ye-Eun , Shin Dong-Chul , Ahn Kwang-Ho , Jung Jinhong , Kim I-Tae
Published: December 2020

Ash-related issues from a considerable amount of alkali and alkaline earth metal species in biochar are major obstacles to the widespread application of biomass in thermoelectric plants. In this study, food wastes were converted into biochar through pyrolysis at 450 °C or 500 °C and four different demineralization approaches, using deionized water, citric acid, nitric acid, and CO2 saturated water. The chemical properties of the resulting biochars were investigated, including proximate analysis, concentrations of inorganic species in biochar and ash, and the crystalline structure. All demineralization treatments produced food waste biochar with sufficient calorific value (>4000 kcal/kg) and a chlorine concentration <0.5%. Among the inorganic species in biochar, Na and K exhibited a significantly higher removal rate through demineralization, which ranged from 54.1%–85.6% and 53.6%–89.9%, respectively; the removal rates of Ca and Mg were lower than 50.0%. The demineralization method was more critical than the pyrolysis temperature in the removal of alkali and alkaline earth metals. Especially, the lower slagging and fouling tendency was expected for the biochar demineralized with citric acid. Our results suggested that food waste biochar pyrolyzed at 500 °C and demineralized with citric acid is a promising co-firing material for electric power generation in thermoelectric power plants.
Lithium-Ion Batteries as Ignition Sources in Waste Treatment Processes—A Semi-Quantitate Risk Analysis and Assessment of Battery-Caused Waste Fires
Authors: Nigl Thomas , Baldauf Mirjam , Hohenberger Michael , Pomberger Roland
Published: December 2020

Increasing occurrences of waste fires that are caused by improperly discarded lithium-based portable batteries threaten the whole waste management sector in numerous countries. Studies showed that high quantities of these batteries have been found in several municipal solid waste streams in recent years in Austria. This article reveals the main influence factors on the risk of lithium-based batteries in their end-of-life and it focuses on the quantification of damages to portable batteries during waste treatment processes. Hazards are identified and analysed and potential risks in waste management systems are comprehensively assessed. In two scenarios, the results showed that the potential risks are too high to maintain a sustainable form of waste management. According to the assessment, a small fire in a collection vehicle is located in the risk graph’s yellow region (as low as reasonably practicable, ALARP), while a fully developed fire in a treatment plant has to be classified as an unacceptable risk (red region of risk graph). Finally, basic recommendations for action were made.
Modeling the Spread of Epidemics Based on Cellular Automata
Authors: Dai Jindong , Zhai Chi , Ai Jiali , Ma Jiaying , Wang Jingde , Sun Wei
Published: December 2020

Mathematical modeling is a powerful tool to study the process of the spread of infectious diseases. Among various mathematical methods for describing the spread of infectious diseases, the cellular automaton makes it possible to explicitly simulate both the spatial and temporal evolution of epidemics with intuitive local rules. In this paper, a model is proposed and realized on a cellular automata platform, which is applied to simulate the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) for different administrative districts. A simplified social community is considered with varying parameters, e.g., sex ratio, age structure, population movement, incubation and treatment period, immunity, etc. COVID-19 confirmation data from New York City and Iowa are adopted for model validation purpose. It can be observed that the disease exhibits different spread patterns in different cities, which could be well accommodated by this model. Then, scenarios under different control strategies in the next 100 days in Iowa are simulated, which could provide a valuable reference for decision makers in identifying the critical factors for future infection control in Iowa.
Kanchan Arsenic Filters and the Future of Fe0-Based Filtration Systems for Single Household Drinking Water Supply
Authors: Huang Zhe , Cao Viet , Nya Esther Laurentine , Gwenzi Willis , Noubactep Chicgoua
Published: December 2020

Biological and chemical contamination of natural water bodies is a global health risk for more than one billion people, mostly living in low-income countries. Innovative, affordable, and efficient decentralized solutions for safe drinking water supply are urgently needed. Metallic iron (Fe0)-based filtration systems have been described as such an appropriate solution. This communication focuses on the Kanchan arsenic filter (KAF), presented in the early 2000s and widely assessed during the past decade. The KAF contains iron nails as the Fe0 source and is primarily designed to remove As from polluted tube well waters. Recent independent works assessing their performance have all reported on a high degree of variability in efficiency depending mostly on the following factors: (1) the current operating conditions, (2) the design, and (3) the groundwater chemistry. This communication shows that the major problems of the KAF are two-fold: (1) a design mistake as the Fe0 units disturb the operation and functionality of the biosand filter, and (2) the use of poorly characterized iron nails of unknown reactivity. This assertion is supported by the evidence that the very successful community filter designed by the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay works with iron nails and has been efficient for many years. Replacing iron nails by more reactive Fe0 materials (e.g., iron fillings and steel wool) should be tested in a new generation KAF. It is concluded that a methodological or systematic approach in introducing and monitoring the efficiency of KAF should be used to test and disseminate the next generation KAF worldwide. Moreover, better characterization of the Fe0 materials including their intrinsic reactivity is required.
James Sterba’s New Argument from Evil
Authors: Hasker William
Published: December 2020

This article addresses the main argument in James Sterba’s book, an argument which claims that the existence of a good God is logically incompatible with the evil in the world. I claim to show that his main premise, MEPRI, is implausible and is not a secure foundation for such an argument.
Pension Fund Management, Investment Performance, and Herding in the Context of Regulatory Changes: New Evidence from the Polish Pension System
Authors: Dopierała Łukasz , Mosionek-Schweda Magdalena
Published: December 2020

The aim of this paper is to assess the impact of reforms introduced in the operation of Polish open pension funds on management style, risk exposure and related investment performance. The article analyzes the impact of the reformed regulations on the herd behavior of fund managers. In particular, we examined whether the elimination of the internal benchmark for fund evaluation impacts the elimination or reduction of herd behavior. We proposed a multi-factor market model to evaluate the performance of funds investing in various types of instruments. Moreover, we used panel estimation to directly take into account the impact of the internal benchmark on herd behavior. Our results indicate that highly regulated funds may slightly outperform passive benchmarks and their unregulated competitors. In the case of Polish open pension funds, limiting investments in Treasury debt instruments clearly resulted in increased risk and volatility of returns. However, it also raised competition between funds and decreased the herd behavior. Additionally, the withdrawal of the mechanism evaluating funds based on the internal benchmark was also important in reducing herd behavior.
Comparing Evapotranspiration Products of Different Temporal and Spatial Scales in Native and Managed Prairie Pastures
Authors: Bajgain Rajen , Xiao Xiangming , Wagle Pradeep , Kimball John , Brust Colin , Basara Jeffrey , Gowda Prasanna , Starks Patrick , Neel James
Published: December 2020

Grasslands in the Southern Great Plains of the United States have major ecological and economic importance, with strong climate and water cycle connections. The historic native prairie grassland has been managed differently for enhancing productivity, while consequently altering water vapor fluxes. However, little is known about the impacts of different management activities on evapotranspiration (ET) at different spatio-temporal scales. In this study, we quantified and compared ET between co-located introduced managed pasture (MP) and native prairie (NP) pasture. Additionally, we compared the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)-derived ET at four different spatial scales: 30 m (ETMOD30), 200 m (ETMOD200), 500 m (ETMOD500), and 1000 m (ETMOD1000) with eddy covariance-measured ET (ETEC). Large differences in ETEC were observed between two pastures from half-hourly to seasonal scales, with variations mainly controlled by the amount of rainfall and management activities. The results demonstrated differential responses of MP and NP in a pluvial year. The ETMOD30 showed a better agreement with ETEC than did the ETMOD200, ETMOD500, and ETMOD1000. The ETMOD200, ETMOD500, and ETMOD1000 largely underestimated ETEC, most likely due to their inability to capture the spatial heterogeneity of vegetation growth impacted by various management activities. Our results facilitate understanding of the difference in ET of MP and NP due to differences in vegetation resulting from different management activities and their differential responses to precipitation.
Feasibility of Combining Deep Learning and RGB Images Obtained by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for Leaf Area Index Estimation in Rice
Authors: Yamaguchi Tomoaki , Tanaka Yukie , Imachi Yuto , Yamashita Megumi , Katsura Keisuke
Published: December 2020

Leaf area index (LAI) is a vital parameter for predicting rice yield. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) surveillance with an RGB camera has been shown to have potential as a low-cost and efficient tool for monitoring crop growth. Simultaneously, deep learning (DL) algorithms have attracted attention as a promising tool for the task of image recognition. The principal aim of this research was to evaluate the feasibility of combining DL and RGB images obtained by a UAV for rice LAI estimation. In the present study, an LAI estimation model developed by DL with RGB images was compared to three other practical methods: a plant canopy analyzer (PCA); regression models based on color indices (CIs) obtained from an RGB camera; and vegetation indices (VIs) obtained from a multispectral camera. The results showed that the estimation accuracy of the model developed by DL with RGB images (R2 = 0.963 and RMSE = 0.334) was higher than those of the PCA (R2 = 0.934 and RMSE = 0.555) and the regression models based on CIs (R2 = 0.802-0.947 and RMSE = 0.401–1.13), and comparable to that of the regression models based on VIs (R2 = 0.917–0.976 and RMSE = 0.332–0.644). Therefore, our results demonstrated that the estimation model using DL with an RGB camera on a UAV could be an alternative to the methods using PCA and a multispectral camera for rice LAI estimation.
Implement an International Interoperable PHR by FHIR—A Taiwan Innovative Application
Authors: Lee Yen-Liang , Lee Hsiu-An , Hsu Chien-Yeh , Kung Hsin-Hua , Chiu Hung-Wen
Published: December 2020

Personal health records (PHRs) have lots of benefits for things such as health surveillance, epidemiological surveillance, self-control, links to various services, public health and health management, and international surveillance. The implementation of an international standard for interoperability is essential to accessing personal health records. In Taiwan, the nationwide exchange platform for electronic medical records (EMRs) has been in use for many years. The Health Level Seven International (HL7) Clinical Document Architecture (CDA) was used as the standard of the EMRs. However, the complication of implementing CDA became a barrier for many hospitals to realize the standard EMRs. In this study, we implemented a Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR)-based PHR transformation process including a user interface module to review the contents of PHRs. We used “My Health Bank, MHB”, a PHR data book developed and issued to all people by the Taiwan National Health Insurance, as the PHRs contents in this study. Network Time Protocol (NTP)/Simple Network Time Protocol (SNTP) was used in the security and user authentication mechanism when processing and applying personal health information. Transport Layer Security (TLS) 1.2 (such as HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) was used for protection in data communication. User authentication is important in the platform. OAuth (OAuth 2.0) was used as a user authentication mechanism to confirm legitimate user access to ensure data security. The contents of MHB were analyzed and mapped to the FHIR, and then converted to FHIR format according to the mapping logic template. The function of format conversion was carried out by using ASP.NET. XPath and JSPath technologies filtered out specific information tags. The converted data structure was verified through an HL7 Application Programming Interface (HAPI) server, and a new JSON file was finally created. This platform can not only capture any PHR based on the FHIR format but also publish FHIR-based MHB records to any other platform to bridge the interoperability gap between different PHR systems. Therefore, our implementation/application with the automatic transformation from MHB to FHIR format provides an innovative method for people to access their own PHRs (MHB). No one has published a similar application like us using a nationwide PHR standard, MHB, in Taiwan. The application we developed will be very useful for a single person to use or for other system developers to implement their own standard PHR software.
Sustainable Technologies for the Transition of Auditing towards a Circular Economy
Authors: Imoniana Joshua Onome , Silva Washington Lopes , Reginato Luciane , Slomski Valmor , Slomski Vilma Geni
Published: December 2020

This study examines the relationships between sustainability technologies, auditor transition, and circular economy models. Circular economy (CE) has been visited in recent studies as a matter of necessity to procure answers to pressing issues that befalls our society, aimed at the survival of the human species. While doing so, there has been little emphasis placed on sustainable technologies that will usher auditors into the new era. Data were constructed from a symposium organized by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), where scholars and practitioners addressed the future of auditing technology, regarding, in particular, the International Social and Environmental Accreditation and Labeling (ISEAL) database official website and also interviews with experts dealing day to day with sustainability and circular economy. Discourse analysis assisted in working with these groups of data. Our findings identified 12 different relational types in our analysis, thus signaling upward trends in the preparedness of auditors in boosting sustainable technologies towards a circular economy environment. Additionally, our findings demonstrate the significant uptake of innovative tools implemented for new-generation technologies in order to enhance auditing. The findings of this study have implications for academia and practice which are aimed at technological preparedness for the transition of auditing towards CE. Finally, this paper contributes by summarizing the debate and speculations around the technologies that are driving auditing to CE.
Is Ex-Post Fiscal Support to PPPs Sustainable? Analysis of Government Loans Granted to Shadow-Toll Roads in Spain: A Case Study
Authors: Garrido Laura , Vassallo José Manuel
Published: December 2020

Budgetary constraints are prompting many governments to encourage private financing of transport infrastructure through public–private partnerships (PPPs). Fiscal support measures are often used to improve the financial feasibility of PPPs and to rebalance the economics of contracts to compensate for government-imposed changes. In the latter case, information asymmetry, political haste, and lack of competition may lead to poor government decisions in establishing support measures. Furthermore, lack of government support may lead to early termination of contracts and non-implementation of projects with high potential social benefits. This paper analyzes the awarding of subordinated public participation loans (SPPLs) to 10 brownfield shadow-toll highway PPPs in Spain after the government imposed additional works. It is hypothesized that, given the political importance of the projects and the viability problems they soon experienced, the government may not have set out the terms of SPPLs efficiently. This paper evaluates the financial and social impacts of awarding these loans to three of these projects to assess whether the government’s decision to support them was justified from a sustainable perspective. The results show that, while the government’s decision was reasonable, the design of the SPPL and its awarding conditions should be improved to ensure the public interest.
Zika Virus Infection in Tourists Travelling to Thailand: Case Series Report
Authors: Romaní Natàlia , Frick Marie Antoinette , Sulleiro Elena , Rodó Carlota , Espiau María , Pou Diana , Silgado Aroa , Suy Anna , Pumarola Tomás , Soler-Palacín Pere , Soriano-Arandes Antoni
Published: December 2020

Thailand is a popular tourist destination where Zika virus (ZIKV) transmission is currently active. To our knowledge, there are no reports of ZIKV infection imported from Thailand and affecting children. Here, we describe the clinical and microbiological findings in three cases of vector-borne ZIKV infection: An 11-year-old boy, a 2-year-old girl, and her pregnant mother, this last case leading to the prenatal exposure of her second baby to ZIKV in the second trimester of pregnancy. All patients were diagnosed after traveling to Thailand between September 2019 and January 2020. No complications were detected in any patient at follow-up, and the prenatally exposed fetus showed no abnormalities during intensive antenatal health care monitoring. On postnatal study, there were no clinical signs or microbiological findings of mother-to-child ZIKV transmission. ZIKV IgG was initially positive, but seroreversion occurred at 4 months of life. This report describes the clinical and serological evolution of vector-borne ZIKV infection occurring in dengue-naïve tourists returning from Thailand. The World Health Organization currently recommends that pre-travel advice to prevent arbovirus infection should be maintained in travelers to Southeast Asia.
The Effect of Indirect Compensation on Employee Performance in Daluman Villa Kuta Bali
Authors: Wijaya Sri Sukmawati , I Ketut Surata  , Luh Putu Kartini  , Raissa Puspita
Published: December 2020

During the pandemic situation, take interest to indirect compensation in order to maintain employee performance becomes very important while increasing direct compensation will be difficult. The purpose of this study is to find out the significance effect of indirect compensation toward employee performance based on criteria of Byars and Rue’ indirect compensation model and Sedarmayanti’s employee performance model. Mixed method is chosen in this research to study the employee perception of Daluman Vila using questionnaire with census method and elaborate it with interview result. The quantitative data is then analyzed using simple regression test, meanwhile the qualitative data is analyzed using descriptive analysis and triangulation. The result shows that employees supporting facilities in indirect compensation criteria, and initiative in employee performance, obtained lowest score. To improve these aspects, evaluation related to supporting employee facilities and designing employee performance indicator for Daluman Villa personal use are suggested to be done.
IMPROVEMENT OF THE LOGISTIC SYSTEM OF THE ENTERPRISE ON THE EXAMPLE OF PJSC «ZFZ»
Authors: Osipova K. , Yakovlev Andrey , Bukhonova Nadezhda
Published: December 2020

The article presents recommendations for improving the logistics system of the plywood enterprise of PJSC "ZFZ" it is necessary to implement the TMS system. This system is characterized by an effective organization of enterprise information flow management. The great advantage of the TMS (Transportation Management System) program in improving the logistics activities of the enterprise is that it is developed on the 1C platform and works together with 1C Accounting. The software product is adapted to the real business processes of logistics systems of medium and large businesses and is in demand when automating the "delivery to the consumer" process.

The "TMS" product will eliminate the following problems that arose during the research and evaluation of the company's activities of PJSC «ZFZ»:

1) Increase the weak functional and organizational relationship of the logistics departments of the enterprise;

2) Refusal to use traditional logistics functions by other services and divisions of the enterprise;

3) Timely elimination of errors and miscalculations of the logistics Department in order to avoid using the data obtained by many structural divisions of the enterprise.

The "TMS" program with radio terminal technology will allow employees of the enterprise to personally enter the data they need into the system when performing specific operations.
STUDIES OF THE INFLUENCE OF THE
Authors: Vaschilin V.S. , Krivonozhko Egor
Published: December 2020

TiOх coatings are obtained by magnetron sputtering on a glass substrate, followed by vacuum photonic annealing to modify the coatings. Absolutely all samples obtained in the process of magnetron sputtering contained nonstoichiometric phases in their composition, and different O2 concentrations in plasma corresponded, in general, to different nonstoichiometric oxides, which may indicate the preferable formation of different TiO2 phases through different nonstoichiometric phases. It has been shown that with an increase in the oxygen concentration in the magnetron plasma, the structure of the coatings changes from amorphous to anatase-rutile (with a predominance of anatase). X-ray studies of the obtained samples of coatings have been carried out, which establish the role of oxygen in the crystallization of TiOx coatings, the effect of vacuum photon annealing on the formation of the anatase phase. It has been established that thermal treatment by photonic vacuum annealing at sufficiently low temperatures (350 ° C) promotes the recrystallization of all phases present in the coating into anatase phase.
MODERN TRENDS IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Authors: Kuznecov S. , Zayceva V.
Published: December 2020

Human resource management is one of the most important areas of enterprise management. If an organization wants to survive in a highly competitive environment, it must improve, develop this area, introduce modern, effective, progressive methods of personnel management. Qualified, purposeful, knowledgeable and skilled personnel is the key to the success of any company.

The relevance of the topic of the article is due to the recognition of the main role of man in the system of industrial relations. For the enterprise to achieve its high goals, it is necessary to create conditions for reproduction, development, use of human resources, taking into account the interests of each person.

Following modern trends in human resource management is an important step in the activities of any business entity. Competent human resource management affects economic performance, product quality and, most importantly, helps to maintain a high level in the competition. With competent management, a high level of job satisfaction and commitment to the common goals of employees is maintained, a positive dynamics of financial indicators is shown, which indicates a close dependence of the profitability and efficiency of an economic entity on effective HR management.

In this paper, we will consider current trends in human resource management, the impact of improvements on the activities of the organization.
ROBOTIZATION IN MODERN CONDITIONS OF HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Authors: Kuznecov S. , Kaschenko M.
Published: December 2020

The study of the implementation of robotization in modern conditions of human resource management is becoming more and more relevant in our rapidly developing world. There are numerous discussions on the digitalization of the economy and humanity, large-scale and local trends in the use of advanced technologies and IT solutions by business entities are considered. The field of application of robots is rapidly expanding, and their actions are hidden for users, and in this sense HR-bots are "black boxes". Proceeding from this, scientists are faced with the task of thoroughly analyzing the structure, functions, etiquette and actions of robots on the efficiency of an economic entity.

Researchers around the world are focusing on the transition to a human resource management model based on IT developments, opening up the ability to use big data for HR analysts.

As for Russia, we can clearly see that new technologies are being introduced very progressively and the involvement of staff in the automation process within the organization is at a high level, but if we look much deeper, we will notice that in Russia automation is more focused on a separate business process rather than replacing the human unit with a robot.

The purpose of this article is to study the development of robotization in modern conditions of human resource management, as well as to study the problems faced by business entities in connection with the implementation of robots in control practice.