bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The public interest: A new way of thinking for public relations?
Authors: Johnston Jane
Published: January 2017

Despite some sporadic attention since the 1950s, the concept of the public interest has failed to attract the consideration of public relations scholars in the same way it has other disciplines. This article examines this seeming anomaly while also presenting an overview of how scholars from politics, media, law, anthropology and planning have engaged with and often embraced the public interest, including through key public interest theories or intersections with the work of other theorists, such as Habermas. The article also explains why the public interest historically polarised scholars and suggests how this may account for its marginalisation within public relations. It draws on themes developed in a new book – Public Relations and the Public Interest – in challenging public relations to more fully engage in this space. The article concludes that public relations may benefit from a deeper understanding of the complexity of the public interest and the ways in which it is viewed and adopted in other fields in order to more robustly connect with democratic processes and social change agendas.
Pulling together and tearing apart – The occupational branding of public relations and the management of tainted work
Authors: Grandien Christina
Published: January 2017

This article is a critical exploration of the professionalization of public relations as a struggle or contest over the meaning of work, and it engages with a question about the driving forces behind the long-standing professional project of public relations. The article will use the concepts of ‘dirty work’ and ‘occupational branding’ to address the relation between the role actually performed, normative ideals, and the image of the occupation. The article analyzes op-eds authored by public relations practitioners, scholars, and representatives from professional organizations in newspapers and trade media in order to explore the ways in which the meaning of public relations work is described, contested, and framed, and, consequently, the occupational brand of public relations is formed.
Evaluation of the utilization of primary healthcare staff for control of oral cancer
Authors: Amarasinghe AAHK , Usgodaarachchi US , Johnson NW
Published: January 2017

Background:

Population-based screening programmes utilizing primary healthcare (PHC) staff have been undertaken in several countries with high incidence of oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs).

Objective:

The main objective of this study is to re-evaluate the utilization of PHC staff for the detection of OPMD and the early detection of oral cancer.

Methods:

A cross-sectional community-based study was done in the Sabaragamuwa province in Sri Lanka by conducting interview and oral examination on 1029 subjects aged 30 years or more, over a 1 year period from November 2006. The study protocol included an interviewer-administered questionnaire to gather sociodemographic factors and lifestyle habits. A 2-day training programme involving didactic sessions followed by practical field training was held for all local PHC staff ( n = 67). Subjects screened by PHC staff were re-examined by the principal investigator (PI) to assess the validity of the screening.

Results:

A total of 685 subjects were screened by both PHC staff and the PI. In terms of the detection of any abnormality, sensitivity of the screening by PHC workers was 63%, with a specificity of 82.6%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 24.8% and negative predictive value of 96.1%. Of the various OPMDs, poor agreement was noted in the detection of early oral submucous fibrosis. Among intra-oral sites missed by PHC staff, surprisingly high numbers were in the buccal mucosa and commissures.

Conclusion:

Low sensitivity and PPV in the present study indicate the necessity for improved training and facilities for better visualization of all intra-oral sites and/or an entirely different approach. An alternative strategy based on determining risk factors in the lives of individuals, with referral to local government dental clinics, could be a better option for screening for early detection of oral cancer in the South Asian scenario.
Twelve-lead electrocardiogram and mortality in young adults after ischaemic stroke
Authors: Pirinen Jani , Putaala Jukka , Aarnio Karoliina , Aro Aapo L , Mustanoja Satu , Sinisalo Juha , Kaste Markku , Haapaniemi Elena , Tatlisumak Turgut , Lehto Mika
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Ischaemic stroke at young age carries an increased risk for mortality in comparison to the general population, but factors associated with mortality have been poorly studied. We studied the role of electrocardiogram in mortality risk stratification in young stroke patients.

Patients and methods

The Helsinki Young Stroke Registry encompasses 1008 patients aged <50 years with ischaemic stroke. We included 690 patients for this electrocardiogram substudy. Our endpoints were all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Cox regression models – adjusted for clinical and demographic characteristics – were used to identify the electrocardiogram parameters associated with these endpoints.

Results

At a mean follow-up of 8.8 years, cumulative all-cause and cardiovascular mortality were 16.1 and 9.1%, respectively. Factors associated with both endpoints included diabetes (type 1 for all-cause, type 2 for cardiovascular mortality), heavy drinking, malignancy, as well as stroke severity and aetiology. Of the electrocardiogram parameters, higher heart rate (hazard ratio 1.35 per 10/min, 95% confidence interval 1.21–1.49), a shorter P-wave (hazard ratio 0.78 per 10 ms decrement, 0.64–0.92) and longer QTc interval (1.09 per 10 ms, 1.03–1.16) were associated with increased all-cause mortality. Only a higher heart rate (1.42 per 10/min, 1.24–1.60) was associated with death from cardiovascular causes.

Conclusions

A higher heart rate during the subacute phase after stroke is associated with an elevated risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in young adults. A longer QTc interval is associated only with higher all-cause mortality. P-wave characteristics and their possible association with mortality need further studies.
Clinical and pathological characteristics of HIV- and HHV-8–negative Castleman disease
Authors: Yu Li , Tu Meifeng , Cortes Jorge , Xu-Monette Zijun Y. , Miranda Roberto N. , Zhang Jun , Orlowski Robert Z. , Neelapu Sattva , Boddu Prajwal C. , Akosile Mary A. , Uldrick Thomas S. , Yarchoan Robert , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Li Yong , Fajgenbaum David C. , Young Ken H.
Published: January 2017

Key Points

HIV-negative UCD and iMCD are heterogeneous at the clinical, immunophenotypic, and pathologic levels. Complete surgical resection is the primary option of treatment of UCD, while siltuximab is more effective for iMCD than rituximab.
Heterogeneity of G6PD deficiency prevalence in Mozambique: a school-based cross-sectional survey in three different regions
Authors: Galatas Beatriz , Mabote Lurdes , Simone Wilson , Matambisso Gloria , Nhamussua Lidia , Mañú-Pereira María del Mar , Menéndez Clara , Saute Francisco , Macete Eusebio , Bassat Quique , Alonso Pedro , Aide Pedro
Published: January 2017

Background

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is an X-linked hereditary enzymatic abnormality that affects more than 400 million people worldwide. Most deficient individuals do not manifest any symptoms; however, several precipitant agents—such as fava intake, infections, or several drugs—may trigger acute haemolytic anaemia. Countries should be informed of the prevalence of this enzymatic anomaly within their borders, in order to make safe and appropriate national decisions regarding the use of potentially unsafe drugs for G6PD deficient individuals.

Methods

A school-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in three districts in Mozambique, namely Manhiça, located in the south; Mocuba in the centre; and Pemba in the northern tip of the country. G6PD deficiency was evaluated using the CareStart™ diagnostic test, and enzyme activity levels were measured through fluorescence spectrophotometry in deficient individuals. Chi squared and ANOVA tests were used to assess prevalence and mean enzyme activity differences, and logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated to the deficiency.

Results

G6PD deficiency prevalence estimates were lowest in the northern city of Pemba (8.3%) and among Emakhuwas and Shimakondes, and higher in the centre and southern regions of the country (16.8 and 14.6%, respectively), particularly among Elomwes and Xichanganas. G6PD deficiency was significantly more prevalent among male students than females (OR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.0–1.8, p = 0.02), although enzyme activity levels were not different among deficient individuals from either gender group. Finally, median deficiency levels were found to be more severe among the deficient students from the north (0.7 U/gHg [0.2–0.7] p < 0.001) and south (0.7 U/gHg [0.5–2.5]), compared to those from the centre (1.4 U/gHg [0.6–2.1]).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Mozambique, as a historically high malaria-endemic country has considerable levels of G6PD deficiency, that vary significantly across the country. This should be considered when planning national strategies for the use of licensed drugs that may be associated to haemolysis among G6PD individuals, or prior to the performance of future trials using primaquine and other 8-aminoquinolines derivatives.

Registration Number CISM local ethics committee (CIBS-25/013, 4th of December 2013), and the National Ethics Committee of Mozambique (IRB00002657, 28th of February 2014).
Towards long-read metagenomics: complete assembly of three novel genomes from bacteria dependent on a diazotrophic cyanobacterium in a freshwater lake co-culture
Authors: Driscoll Connor B. , Otten Timothy G. , Brown Nathan M. , Dreher Theo W.
Published: January 2017

Here we report three complete bacterial genome assemblies from a PacBio shotgun metagenome of a co-culture from Upper Klamath Lake, OR. Genome annotations and culture conditions indicate these bacteria are dependent on carbon and nitrogen fixation from the cyanobacterium Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, whose genome was assembled to draft-quality. Due to their taxonomic novelty relative to previously sequenced bacteria, we have temporarily designated these bacteria as incertae sedis Hyphomonadaceae strain UKL13-1 (3,501,508 bp and 56.12% GC), incertae sedis Betaproteobacterium strain UKL13-2 (3,387,087 bp and 54.98% GC), and incertae sedis Bacteroidetes strain UKL13-3 (3,236,529 bp and 37.33% GC). Each genome consists of a single circular chromosome with no identified plasmids. When compared with binned Illumina assemblies of the same three genomes, there was ~7% discrepancy in total genome length. Gaps where Illumina assemblies broke were often due to repetitive elements. Within these missing sequences were essential genes and genes associated with a variety of functional categories. Annotated gene content reveals that both Proteobacteria are aerobic anoxygenic phototrophs, with Betaproteobacterium UKL13-2 potentially capable of phototrophic oxidation of sulfur compounds. Both proteobacterial genomes contain transporters suggesting they are scavenging fixed nitrogen from A. flos-aquae in the form of ammonium. Bacteroidetes UKL13-3 has few completely annotated biosynthetic pathways, and has a comparatively higher proportion of unannotated genes. The genomes were detected in only a few other freshwater metagenomes, suggesting that these bacteria are not ubiquitous in freshwater systems. Our results indicate that long-read sequencing is a viable method for sequencing dominant members from low-diversity microbial communities, and should be considered for environmental metagenomics when conditions meet these requirements.
High quality draft genome sequence of Janthinobacterium psychrotolerans sp. nov., isolated from a frozen freshwater pond
Authors: Gong Xianzhe , Skrivergaard Stig , Korsgaard Benjamin Smed , Schreiber Lars , Marshall Ian P. G. , Finster Kai , Schramm Andreas
Published: January 2017

Strain S3-2T, isolated from sediment of a frozen freshwater pond, shares 99% 16S rRNA gene sequence identity with strains of the genus Janthinobacterium. Strain S3-2T is a facultative anaerobe that lacks the ability to produce violacein but shows antibiotic resistance, psychrotolerance, incomplete denitrification, and fermentation. The draft genome of strain S3-2T has a size of ~5.8 Mbp and contains 5,297 genes, including 115 RNA genes. Based on the phenotypic properties of the strain, the low in silico DNA-DNA hybridization (DDH) values with related genomes (<35%), and the low whole genome-based average nucleotide identity (ANI) (<86%) with other strains within the genus Janthinobacterium, we propose that strain S3-2T is the type strain (= DSM 102223 = LMG 29653) of a new species within this genus. We propose the name Janthinobacterium psychrotolerans sp. nov. to emphasize the capability of the strain to grow at low temperatures.
Complex regional pain syndrome: a recent update
Authors: Goh En Lin , Chidambaram Swathikan , Ma Daqing
Published: January 2017

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating condition affecting the limbs that can be induced by surgery or trauma. This condition can complicate recovery and impair one’s functional and psychological well-being. The wide variety of terminology loosely used to describe CRPS in the past has led to misdiagnosis of this condition, resulting in poor evidence-base regarding the treatment modalities available and their impact. The aim of this review is to report on the recent progress in the understanding of the epidemiology, pathophysiology and treatment of CRPS and to discuss novel approaches in treating this condition.
Loss of Ranbp2 in motor neurons causes the disruption of nucleocytoplasmic and chemokine signaling and proteostasis of hnRNPH3 and Mmp28, and the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-like syndromes
Authors: Cho Kyoung-in , Yoon Dosuk , Qiu Sunny , Danziger Zachary , Grill Warren M. , Wetsel William C. , Ferreira Paulo A.
Published: January 2017

The pathogenic drivers of sporadic and familial motor neuron disease (MND), such ALS, are unknown. MND impair the Ran GTPase cycle, which controls nucleocytoplasmic transport, ribostasis and proteostasis; however, cause-effect mechanisms of Ran GTPase modulators in motoneuron pathobiology are heretofore elusive. The cytosolic and peripheral nucleoporin, Ranbp2, is a critical regulator of the Ran GTPase cycle and proteostasis of neurological disease-prone substrates, but the roles of Ranbp2 in motoneuron biology and disease remain unknown. This study shows that conditional ablation of Ranbp2 in mouse Thy1-motoneurons causes ALS syndromes with hypoactivity followed by hind limb paralysis, respiratory distress and ultimately, death. These phenotypes are accompanied by declines of nerve conduction velocity, free fatty acids and phophatidylcholine of the sciatic nerve, g-ratios of sciatic and phrenic nerves, and hypertrophy of motoneurons. Further, Ranbp2 loss disrupts the nucleocytoplasmic partitioning of the import and export nuclear receptors, importin-β and exportin-1, respectively, Ran GTPase and histone deacetylase-4. Whole-transcriptome, proteomic and cellular analyses uncovered that the chemokine receptor, Cxcr4, its antagonizing ligands, Cxcl12 and Cxcl14, and effector, latent and activated Stat3, undergo early autocrine and proteostatic deregulation, and intracellular sequestration and aggregation, by Ranbp2 loss in motoneurons. These effects were accompanied by paracrine and autocrine neuroglial deregulation of hnRNPH3 proteostasis in sciatic nerve and motoneurons, respectively, and post-transcriptional down-regulation of metalloproteinase-28 in the sciatic nerve. Mechanistically, our results demonstrate that Ranbp2 controls nucleocytoplasmic, chemokine and metalloproteinase-28 signaling and proteostasis of substrates critical to motoneuronal homeostasis and whose impairments by loss of Ranbp2 drive ALS-like syndromes.
Ideas of poliprofessionalism in psychological and acmeological research
Authors: Богданов  , Bogdanov Evgeniy , Посохова  , Posokhova Anastasiya
Published: January 2017

In the article authors note markable tendency leading to complication of variety of professional activities which don’t require one exact professional competence but different professional competences by their content. Wherein complex professional activities have professional status of activity of so named poliprofessional profile and require formation of competence environment which is called «poliprofessional competence». So named poliprofessional qualities and skills connected to main directions or functions of complex activity and following competences are very important in complex activities of poliprofessional profile. Authors note that policompetence content of complex professional activities force solving the problem of professionalism of subject of this activity in the new light. By virtue of its relevance and compliance with the current realities the ideas of poliprofessionalism should find its’ refection in the training practice for specialists in the institutes of higher education. Now it is important to train the specialist not only to be competent but to be poliprofessional in any field.
Burn wound healing: present concepts, treatment strategies and future directions
Authors: Oryan A. , Alemzadeh E. , Moshiri A.
Published: January 2017

Burns are the most extensive forms of soft tissue injuries occasionally resulting in extensive and deep wounds and death. Burns can lead to severe mental and emotional distress, because of excessive scarring and skin contractures. Treatment of burns has always been a difficult medical problem and many different methods have been used to treat such injuries, locally. Biofilms are a collection of microorganisms that delay wound healing. One of the new methods of prevention and treatment of burn wound infections is application of antimicrobials, which act on biofilms and prevent the wound infection. Biofilm initiates a persistent, low-grade, inflammatory response, impairing both the epithelialisation and granulation tissue formation. Skin grafts have been shown to dramatically reduce deaths from infection. However, grafting has considerable limitations. Such injuries are long-lasting and many patients suffer from chronic pain for a long time. Tissue engineering is a new approach in reducing the limitations of conventional treatments and producing a supply of immunologically tolerant artificial tissue, leading to a permanent solution for damaged tissues; such criteria make it a cost-effective and reliable treatment modality. To overcome the present limitations of burn wound healing, knowledge about the latest findings regarding healing mechanisms is important. Here the authors discuss the most important events regarding burn wound healing and review the latest treatment strategies that have been used for burn wounds from in vitro to clinical levels. Finally, we discuss the role of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine in the future of burn wound healing, modelling and remodelling.
The "Pots and Pans" protests and requirements for responsiveness of the authorities
Authors: Önnudóttir Eva H.
Published: January 2017

This paper examines under what conditions it is justifiable that the government takes into account the demands of protesters and whether the terms of procedural-equality in protest participation were met in the ‘Pots and Pans’ protests in Iceland in 2008–09. The protests were triggered by a financial melt-down in Iceland and did not come to an end until almost all the main demands of the protesters had been met. The main conclusion is that due to the seriousness of the issues which triggered the protests and that those issues were of national concern, together with the large numbers of protesters and wide support for their demands as well as extensive public discussion about the issues of the protests, they were a prime example of a situation when the authorities should consider taking the demands of protesters into account. Furthermore, in this paper it is established that giving in to the demands of the protesters was within the terms of procedural-equality between the protesters and those who did not participate – adding to the justification that, in this case, it was justifiable to defer to the protesters’ demands.
"Hún gæti alveg verið múslimi og allt það": Ráðning fólks af erlendum uppruna til íslenskra fyrirtækja
Authors: Loftsdóttir Kristín , Sigurðardóttir Margrét Sigrún , Kristinsson Kári
Published: January 2017

Erlendar rannsóknir benda á að innflytjendur standa oft höllum fæti á vinnumarkaði og sérfræðiþekking þeirra er oft ekki metin að verðleikum. Markmið þessarar greinar er að skoða ráðningarferlið hjá þjónustufyrirtækjum út frá viðhorfum mannauðsstjóra til erlendra umsækjenda. Rannsóknin, sem er eigindleg, byggir á svokallaðri, hugsa upphátt (e. think aloud) aðferð. Rannsakendur útbjuggu sex ferilskrár kvenkyns umsækjenda, frá jafnmörgum löndum, með umsókn um starf bókara hjá stóru þjónustufyrirtæki. Mannauðsstjórar voru beðnir um að lesa yfir starfslýsingu og hugsa svo upphátt á meðan þeir fóru yfir ferilskrárnar og mátu umsækjendur. Eftir að yfirferð yfir ferilskrár var lokið voru mannauðsstjórar spurðir nánar út í ráðningar á innflytjendum í vinnu. Helstu niðurstöður greinarinnar eru að mannauðsstjórar virðast meðvitaðir um fordóma gagnvart einstaklingum frá Austur-Evrópu og setja ekki fyrir sig að ráða konu frá Litháen eða Póllandi í starf bókara. Mikilvægt er að undirstrika kynjaðar birtingarmyndir fordóma og hvernig niðurstöður gætu hafa verið aðrar ef um karlkyns umsækjendur hefði verið að ræða. Niðurstöður greinarinnar benda jafnframt til að fordómar á íslenskum vinnumarkaði birtast helst í kringum trúarbrögð, þ.e. sem andstaða við Íslam. Viðmælendur reyndu þó að aðskilja sig frá þessum fordómum með vísun til kynjajafnréttis. Einnig bendir rannsóknin til þess að varasamt sé að draga of skörp skil á milli starfsfólks með reynslu eða menntun (skilled) og fólks sem hefur litla reynslu eða menntun (unskilled). Niðurstöðurnar benda einnig til að reynsla umsækjenda sé að miklu leyti metin eftir uppruna. Það er, að reynslan skipti mun meira máli ef hennar var aflað á íslenskum vinnumarkaði.
Yfirfærsla á málaflokki fatlaðs fólks frá ríki til sveitarfélaga: Með sérstakri áherslu á stærsta sveitarfélagið, Reykjavík
Authors: Freysteinsdóttir Freydís Jóna , Jónsson Gylfi
Published: January 2017

Markmið rannsóknarinnar var að skoða hvernig yfirfærsla á málaflokki fatlaðs fólks frá ríki til sveitarfélaga hefði gengið fyrir sig. Heildarferli yfirfærslunnar var skoðað og síðan var eitt sveitarfélag, Reykjavíkurborg, valið og skoðað nánar með tilliti til stefnu og framkvæmdar á þjónustunni við fatlað fólk. Um var að ræða eigindlega rannsókn sem fór fram haustið 2012. Tekin voru átta viðtöl við fagaðila sem höfðu komið beint að vinnu við yfirfærsluna eða unnið við málaflokkinn fyrir og eftir yfirfærslu. Tekið var viðtal við starfsmenn hjá velferðarráðuneytinu og hjá Sambandi íslenskra sveitarfélaga. Þjónustumiðstöðvar Reykjavíkurborgar eru sex talsins, eitt viðtal var tekið á hverri þjónustumiðstöð og leitast var við að fá viðmælanda sem var hvað mest inni í málaflokknum. Helstu niðurstöður voru þær að viðmælendur töldu almennt séð rétt að ráðist skyldi hafa verið í yfirfærsluna. Þeir töldu að þjónusta í nærsamfélaginu væri heppilegri kostur og nú þyrfti þjónustuþeginn aðeins að fara á einn stað til þess að sækja sér þjónustu, jafnvel þó að ekki hefðu orðið eins miklar framfarir í þjónustunni og búist hefði verið við. Þeir töldu þó að töluvert fjármagn vantaði í málaflokkinn til að tryggja viðeigandi þjónustu og að yfirfærslan hefði ekki verið nægilega vel undirbúin. Viðmælendur voru á því að þverfagleg vinna gengi vel í málaflokknum.
Tengsl streituvaldandi þátta í starfsumhverfi, svefns og stoðkerfisverkja hjá millistjórnendum í opinberri þjónustu
Authors: Halldórsdóttir Sigríður , Skúladóttir Hafdís , Sigursteinsdóttir Hjördís , Agnarsdóttir Þórey
Published: January 2017

Millistjórnendur eru í krefjandi hlutverki og upplifa sig oft eins og milli steins og sleggju. Þeir gegna þungavigtarhlutverki en störf þeirra einkennast af miklu vinnuálagi og streitu. Þó hafa þeir fengið fremur litla athygli í stjórnendafræðum, einkum innan heilbrigðisþjónustunnar. Við vitum til dæmis lítið um áhrif þessa krefjandi starfs á heilsu þeirra, til dæmis hvort streituvaldandi þættir í starfsumhverfinu tengjast stoðkerfisverkjum og svefni. Tilgangur þessarar rannsóknar var að skoða þessi tengsl. Um er að ræða lýsandi þversniðsrannsókn þar sem gögnum var safnað með forprófuðum spurningalista sem sendur var rafrænt á 137 hjúkrunardeildarstjóra í gegnum Outcome-kannanakerfið. Svarhlutfall var 80,9%. Lýsandi tölfræði og ályktunartölfræði var notuð við úrvinnslu gagna. Niðurstöður sýndu skýr tengsl streituvaldandi þátta í starfsumhverfi, stoðkerfisverkja og ófullnægjandi svefns eftir að stjórnað var fyrir áhrifum af aldri, hjúskaparstöðu og fjölda stöðugilda í hjúkrun á deild. Streituvaldandi þættir í starfsumhverfinu og svefn höfðu tengsl við styrkleika stoðkerfisverkja á hálssvæði og herðum og svefn hafði tengsl við styrkleika verkja í neðri hluta baks. Meiri streita þýddi meiri stoðkerfisverki á hálssvæði og í herðum að teknu tilliti til svefns. Ófullnægjandi svefn þýddi aftur meiri stoðkerfisverki frá öllum þremur líkamssvæðunum að teknu tilliti til streituvaldandi þátta. Saman skýrðu streituvaldandi þættir í starfsumhverfinu og ófullnægjandi svefn, að teknu tilliti til aldurs, hjúskaparstöðu og fjölda stöðugilda við hjúkrun á deild, 17% af heildarbreytileika í styrkleika stoðkerfisverkja á hálssvæði, 21% í herðum og 14% í neðri hluta baks. Fram kom marktæk samvirkni milli streituvaldandi þátta í starfsumhverfinu og svefns varðandi styrkleika stoðkerfisverkja á hálssvæði. Niðurstöður þessarar rannsóknar verða vonandi til þess að hugað verði betur að streituvaldandi þáttum í starfsumhverfi millistjórnenda svefni og stoðkerfisverkjum þeirra.
Stjórnun og fagleg forysta í grunnskólum
Authors: Þorsteinsson Trausti , Björnsdóttir Amalía
Published: January 2017

Samfara aukinni valddreifingu í íslensku skólastarfi hefur umfang starfs skólastjóra grunnskóla aukist verulega. Í skólastjórn felst bæði stjórnun og fagleg forysta en skólastjóra er fengið það hlutverk samkvæmt lögum að móta stjórnskipan síns skóla og skipta verkum á milli kennara og stjórnenda. Sjónir fræðimanna hafa í vaxandi mæli beinst að hlut skólastjóra í að bæta námsárangur en sýnt hefur verið fram á að skýr tengsl eru á milli faglegrar forystu skólastjóra og árangurs nemenda. Með kjarasamningum 2001 var samið um störf aðstoðarskólastjóra og deildarstjóra í þeim tilgangi að efla kennslufræðilega forystu í grunnskólunum og fjölgaði stjórnendunum talsvert fram til ársins 2008. Markmið þessarar rannsóknar var að kanna hverjar væru starfsaðstæður og bakgrunnur skólastjóra og hvaða viðfangsefni hann kysi sjálfur að axla í stjórnkerfi skólans. Gagna var aflað með rafrænni spurningakönnun sem send var öllum stjórnendum í grunnskólum með meira en 100 nemendur. Niðurstöður sýna að skólastjórar grunnskóla hafa umtalsverða starfsreynslu og mikill meirihluti þeirra hefur lokið framhaldsnámi í stjórnun. Þrátt fyrir viðleitni til að binda skólana saman sem faglegar stofnanir virðast þeir enn vera talsvert laustengdir. Tilhögun stjórnkerfis skólanna er óljós og hefur í för með sér ákveðin einkenni óreiðu fremur en fagveldis. Hlutverk aðstoðarskólastjóra og deildarstjóra eru óljóst skilgreind en algengast er að skólastjóri gegni sjálfur hlutverkum stjórnenda. Hinum mikilvægu faglegu forystuhlutverkum er skipt með óljósum hætti milli stjórnenda og oftar en ekki er vísað til ábyrgðar stjórnendateymis. Benda niðurstöður til þess að áform kjarasamnings árið 2001 um að efla kennslufræðilega forystu í grunnskólum hafi ekki gengið eftir.
Þingstörf á Alþingi 1991-2015. Kyrrstaða í breyttu umhverfi
Authors: Arnþórsson Haukur
Published: January 2017

Í þessari grein er málþóf og veikt skipulag í þingstörfum á Alþingi á síðustu 24 árum skoðað í ljósi fræðikenninga um þjóðþing og um samfélagsleg áhrif netsins og breytts ytra og innra umhverfis þingsins. Í ljós kemur að þingstörfin einkennast af átökum sem eru föst í ákveðnu fari og spilla tímastjórnun og stjórn dagskrár. Megineinkenni og mælanlegar stærðir breytast lítið í þessu tilliti. Þá eru ábendingar um að gæðum lagasetningar sé ábótavant. Að stjórnarandstaðan komist í samningsaðstöðu í málum með málþófi vegna veiks skipulags þingstarfa virðist óviðeigandi lausn á annars afar mikilvægu máli. Kröfur nútímans um vönduð vinnubrögð, skilvirkni og málefnalega, hnitmiðaða og skiljanlega umræðu eru orðnar háværar.
Measuring corruption: whose perceptions should we rely on? Evidence from Iceland"
Authors: Erlingsson Gissur Ólafur , Kristinsson Gunnar Helgi
Published: January 2017

The extent of corruption in Iceland is highly contested. International corruption measures indicate a relatively small amount of corruption while domestic public opinion suggest a serious corruption problem. Thus, uncertainty prevails about the actual extent of corruption and whose perceptions to rely on. This problem is relevant for corruption research in general. Perceptions are increasingly used as proxies for the actual levels of corruption in comparative research. But we still do not know enough about the accuracy of these proxies or the criteria they must meet in order to give dependable results. In fact, radical differences exist concerning evaluations of perceptions between those who believe in unbiased learning and those believing perceptual bias to be widespread. The purpose of this article is, therefore, to attempt to gauge which factors may influence how perceptions of corruption are shaped and why differences in corruption perceptions between different groups may be so pronounced. We present findings from original survey data from three parallel surveys – among the "public", experts, and "municipal practitioners" – conducted in Iceland in 2014. Expectations based on the perceptual bias approach are tested, indicating that perceptions may be affected by (1) information factors, (2) direct experience of corruption and (3) emotive factors. The validity of perception measures should be considered with this in mind. Domestic experts are likely to be well informed and avoid perceptual bias to a greater extent than other groups. Our examination of the Icelandic case suggests that the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) tends to underestimate corruption problems in "mature welfare states", such as Iceland, whilst the general public tends to overestimate it.
Administrative capacity and long-term policy making at the Icelandic local level
Authors: Hlynsdóttir Eva Marín
Published: January 2017

Leach and Wilson (2002) identified four key tasks of local government leaders. Building on their initiative, this paper examines the task of developing strategic and policy direction at the Icelandic local level from the viewpoint of the Icelandic mayor. In addition, it explores the administrative capacity of Icelandic local governance. Individuals occupying mayoral positions in Iceland always serve as heads of administration. At times, mayors are council members (political mayors), while other times they are hired based on their professional skills (manager-mayors). The findings suggest that mayors of both types play crucial roles in long-term policy making. However, the study shows that the daily work of manager-mayors is often hindered by fragmentation and lack of specialisation within the administration as well as by the laymen rule upon which the council-committee system is based.
Varðveisla gagna í stjórnsýslunni
Authors: Benediktsdóttir Kristín , Valsson Trausti Fannar
Published: January 2017

Mikið af upplýsingum verður til hjá stjórnsýslunni eða berst henni með einum eða öðrum hætti. Reglulega koma upp álitamál um varðveislu þessara upplýsinga og eyðingu þeirra. Í greininni er fjallað um þau ákvæði laga nr. 77/2014 um opinber skjalasöfn sem mæla fyrir um það hvaða skjöl stjórnvöldum ber að varðveita í því skyni að skila þeim á síðari stigum til opinberra skjalasafna og hver hafi eftirlit og yfirstjórn með þeirri framkvæmd. Helstu niðurstöður eru eftirfarandi: Í fyrsta lagi að öll skjöl sem hafa orðið til og tilheyra starfsemi afhendingarskyldra aðila falla undir gildissvið laganna óháð formi þeirra eða hvernig þau urðu til, nema sérlög leiði til annarrar niðurstöðu. Í öðru lagi að skjölin ber að varðveita nema fyrirmæli og heimildir Þjóðskjalasafns Íslands, hvað varðar skjalavörslu eða grisjun skjala, eða sérlög, leiði til annarrar niðurstöðu. Í þriðja lagi að það er Þjóðskjalasafn Íslands sem hefur eftirlit með framkvæmd laganna. Vegna þess hversu víðfeðm skilgreiningin er á hugtakinu skjal í lögum um opinber skjalasöfn þá hafa framangreindar niðurstöður mikla þýðingu fyrir störf stjórnsýslunnar.
From the diasporic to the transnation: Catherine Temma Davidson’s The Priest Fainted
Authors: Kušnír Jaroslav
Published: January 2017

This paper analyses the depiction of the main female protagonists of Catherine Temma Davidson’s novel The Priest Fainted (1998) in the context of the symbolic formation of the hybrid identity of the main female character and narrator which is close to Bill Ascroft’s concept of the transnation. The author of this paper analyses Davidson’s depiction of three generations of female protagonists with a Greek cultural background and the way they symbolically represent the transition from a traditional diasporic identity (the narrator’s grandmother), through multicultural and transnational identity (her mother) up to the identity close to the concept of the transnation as defined by Bill Aschroft (the narrator herself). At the same time, the formation of such a cultural identity is understood as a symbolic formation of female independence and the rejection of a patriarchal society, religious bigotry and conservative values as represented, in the narrator’s and her mother’s view, by contemporary Greece.
The humanistic aspect of Alexander McCall Smith’s African detective fiction
Authors: Waldnerová Jana
Published: January 2017

The text presents some of the unusual features of Alexander McCall Smith’s popular African detective stories, in which cultural elements convey humanity and thus lower tension, the characteristic sign of detective fiction. Culture, in particular the African collectivist culture included in the core of these stories, creates a milieu that enables the writer to avoid murders, which are usually basic conflict-conveying vehicles in this genre. Although McCall Smith’s African books contain the conventional formal elements of detective stories, they also display a very low level of tension together with other peculiarities. This text tries to compare the structure and elements of classic detective stories with those from McCall Smith’s books to disclose their true essence.
On fault tolerant control structures incorporating fault estimation
Authors: Krokavec Dušan , Filasová Anna , Liščinský Pavol
Published: January 2017

The paper provides the minimal necessary modifications of linear matrix inequality conditions for the mixed H2/H∞control design as well as for the augmented observer-based fault estimation to be mutually compatible in joint design of integrated fault estimation and fault tolerant control. To be possible, within this integration, to design the controller which guarantees a pre-specified H∞norm disturbance attenuation level, the design conditions has to be regularized using the H2performance index and, moreover, augmented fault observer must be of enforced dynamics. Analyzing the ambit of performances given on the mixed H2/H∞design, the joint design conditions are formulated as a minimization problem subject to convex constraints expressed by a system of LMIs. The feasibility of the conditions is demonstrated by a numerical example.
Predictor-based stabilization for chained form systems with input time delay
Authors: Mnif Faïçal
Published: January 2017

This note addresses the stabilization problem of nonlinear chained-form systems with input time delay. We first employ the so-called σ-process transformation that renders the feedback system under a linear form. We introduce a particular transformation to convert the original system into a delay-free system. Finally, we apply a state feedback control, which guarantees a quasi-exponential stabilization to all the system states, which in turn converge exponentially to zero. Then we employ the so-called -type control to achieve a quasi-exponential stabilization of the subsequent system. A simulation example illustrated on the model of a wheeled mobile robot is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Real-Time PCR Assays for the Specific Detection of Field Balkan Strains of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus
Authors: Vidanović Dejan , Šekler Milanko , Petrović Tamaš , Debeljak Zoran , Vasković Nikola , Matović Kazimir , Hoffmann Bernd
Published: January 2017

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an important disease of cattle which is included in the OIE list of notifiable terrestrial animal diseases because of its great economic importance. The etiological agent is the Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV).

In the control of LSD attenuated strains of LSDV and SPPV are successfully used as vaccine strains in infected areas. In the case of vaccination policy, due to the possibility of mild or systemic post-vaccination reactions in vaccinated animals, the application of diagnostic procedures that will rapidly and specifically differentiate LSDV field strains from LSD vaccine virus strains are extremely important. Rapidity in diagnostics and disposal of infected animals is one of the key factors in the prevention of spreading the disease.

In the presented study we have described the development and validation of two real-time TaqMan-PCR assays for a rapid, sensitive and specific detection of the virulent field LSDV strain currently circulating in the Balkan Peninsula. Specificity for the field strain and exclusivity for vaccine strains was tested on 171 samples from naturally infected and vaccinated animals.

The results of this study show that both developed real-time PCR assays are more sensitive than the conventional nested PCR in detecting field LSDV strains thus enabling rapid and high-throughput detection of animals infected with field strains of LSDV.

In conclusion, both KV-2 and FLI real-time PCR assays described in this study are simple, rapid, sensitive and suitable for routine use in a diagnostic laboratory and have the potential to replace conventional nested gel-based PCR assays as the standard procedure for the detection of field strains of LSDV in clinical samples.
Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Enterotoxin-Producing Strains of Staphylococcus Aureus Isolated from Serbian Dairy Cows
Authors: Pajić Marija , Boboš Stanko , Velebit Branko , Rašić Zoran , Katić Vera , Radinović Miodrag , Nikolić Aleksandra , Simonović Dušan , Babić Milijana
Published: January 2017

Staphylococcus aureus is known worldwide as a frequent cause of mastitis in dairy cattle. Due to the production of heath resistant enterotoxins, this pathogen is also a major cause of food poisoning among humans, with symptoms of often severe vomiting and diarrhea. The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence of enterotoxinproducing strains of S. aureus originating from samples of cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis in the Republic of Serbia. Furthermore, we analyzed the type of staphylococcal enterotoxin they produce and phylogenetic relatedness among the S. aureus isolates recovered from milk in this study. Production of staphylococcal enterotoxins A, B, C, D and E was determined by commercial immunoenzyme assay VIDAS® SET2, and presence of corresponding genes encoding enterotoxin synthesis in positive isolates confi rmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction. Enterotoxin production was determined in 5 out of 75 (6.67%) isolates of S. aureus and all of them produced staphylococcal enterotoxins C. After analyzing the nucleotide sequence of the gene encoding the synthesis of staphylococcal protein A, S. aureus isolates were assigned into 2 phylogenetic groups, including 7 clusters. All S. aureus isolates with the presence of sec gene formed one cluster even dough they originated from milk samples from different farms.
Modeling heat distribution with the use of a non-integer order, state space model
Authors: Oprzędkiewicz Krzysztof , Gawin Edyta , Mitkowski Wojciech
Published: January 2017

A new, state space, non-integer order model for the heat transfer process is presented. The proposed model is based on a Feller semigroup one, the derivative with respect to time is expressed by the non-integer order Caputo operator, and the derivative with respect to length is described by the non-integer order Riesz operator. Elementary properties of the state operator are proven and a formula for the step response of the system is also given. The proposed model is applied to the modeling of temperature distribution in a one dimensional plant. Results of experiments show that the proposed model is more accurate than the analogical integer order model in the sense of the MSE cost function.
A comparison of hole-filling methods in 3D
Authors: Pérez Emiliano , Salamanca Santiago , Merchán Pilar , Adán Antonio
Published: January 2017

This paper presents a review of the most relevant current techniques that deal with hole-filling in 3D models. Contrary to earlier reports, which approach mesh repairing in a sparse and global manner, the objective of this review is twofold. First, a specific and comprehensive review of hole-filling techniques (as a relevant part in the field of mesh repairing) is carried out. We present a brief summary of each technique with attention paid to its algorithmic essence, main contributions and limitations. Second, a solid comparison between 34 methods is established. To do this, we define 19 possible meaningful features and properties that can be found in a generic hole-filling process. Then, we use these features to assess the virtues and deficiencies of the method and to build comparative tables. The purpose of this review is to make a comparative hole-filling state-of-the-art available to researchers, showing pros and cons in a common framework.
IT Systems in Aid of Welding Processes Quality Management in the Automotive Industry
Authors: Restecka M. , Wolniak R.
Published: January 2017

The most important issue for the producers nowadays is to meet the requirements of customers, satisfying their perceived but also the unperceived needs. In order to control the quality of welding processes correctly one must have knowledge of welding drawings, symbols, designs of welded joints, welding procedures, requirements set in codes and standards, also have knowledge of the techniques of inspection and testing connected with the automotive industry. The article shows ways to increase quality in the industry through the use of robotization and computerization. Presented examples and application of IT systems in aid of welding processes quality management in the automotive industry.
Computer Simulation of Microsegregation of Sulphur and Manganese and Formation of MnS Inclusions while Casting Rail Steel
Authors: Kalisz D. , Gerasin S. , Bobrowski P. , Żak P.L. , Skowronek T.
Published: January 2017

The quality of rail steel is conditioned by its high mechanic qualities, which greatly depend on the presence of undesired nonmetallic inclusions. The paper is devoted to the segregation of components, mainly sulphur, and the formation of manganese sulphide in the process of steel solidification, at the casting rate of 100 and 500 K/min. Sulphur is a steel component which disadvantageously influences its numerous parameters. The oxide-sulphide and sulphide precipitations cause cracks and lower the strength of the material. This phenomenon was modeled with the use of author’s computer program based on Matsumiya interdendritic microsegregation model. The main assumptions of this model and thermodynamic conditions of inclusion formation during casting of steel are discussed in this paper. Two cases were analyzed: in the first one the MnS was assumed to form a pure and constant compound, whereas in the other one the manganese sulfide was precipitated as a component of a liquid oxide solution, and its activity was lower than unity. The final conclusion is that chemical composition of steel is the major parameter deciding about the formation of MnS inclusions.
Heat Flux Identification at the Charge Surface During Heating in Chamber Furnace
Authors: Gołdasz A. , Malinowski Z.
Published: January 2017

In this study, a method of determining the heat flux, which reaches the surface of a charge, has been presented with the use of an inverse analysis. The research on the heating process of a square 15HM steel charge was conducted in a natural gas-fired laboratory furnace. The inverse solution was based on the search of the minimum standard error between the measured and the calculated temperatures. The temperature of the charge has been calculated by the finite element method, solving the heat conduction equation for a square charge heated on all the surfaces. As a result, the mean value of the heat flux on each of the heated surfaces of the charge was estimated.
The Influence of the Chemical Composition of Selected Waste Materials from the Production of Copper on the Final Environmental Assessment
Authors: Bydałek A.W. , Biernat S. , Schlafka P. , Holtzer M. , Wołczyński W. , Bydałek F.
Published: January 2017

This article presents qualitative and quantitative analysis of the waste produced by KGHM Polska Miedź. The waste has been analyzed according to its chemical composition and balanced in order to be reused and recycled. Special attention has been paid to mining industries producing the biggest amount of waste and ore enrichment businesses generating waste, which isn’t reused nowadays. Laboratory reseach has been conducted on floatation waste, different kinds of slags, waste gases and water slag extracts. Attention has been drawn to the possibility of using a computer program SLAG - PROP for analyzing physicochemical features, technological features and the refining of the acquired waste. Consequently, the further way of utilization of waste has been shown. From this point of view, analyses of DTA and TG slags in an oxide coating seem especially interesting. Having a particular composition they can be successfully utillised in the refining processes of copper pyrometallyrgy.
The Effect of Low Deformation Asymmetric Rolling on Microstructure and Texture of the Polycrystalline Copper
Authors: Uniwersał A. , Wróbel M. , Wroński S. , Kalemba-Rec I. , Wroński M. , Wierzbanowski K. , Baczmański A. , Bacroix B.
Published: January 2017

In the most recent years the asymmetric rolling (AR) attracts attention of researchers and technologists. This process can improve some technological parameters (e.g. modification of rolling torque and load, power requirements, etc.) as well as provide the possibility of grain refinement in a relatively inexpensive way. Most of the reports concerning microstructural changes produced by AR refer to high deformations imposed in highly asymmetric conditions. However, such rolling conditions are difficult to control, so there are no prospects to their quick industrial implementation. The present paper refers to relatively low deformation and low asymmetry rate, that is much more interesting for the industry. It was shown that bending of the rolled band (important disadvantage of the AR technology) can be controlled by adjusting of the amount of deformation and asymmetry. It was also shown that ca. 30% reduction in thickness during cold rolling, together with a relatively low asymmetry, reduces significantly the grain size and produces a more fragmented microstructure inside grains of the polycrystalline copper comparing to the symmetric rolling (SR). The material hardness after AR is higher than after the SR. Moreover, the crystallographic texture asymmetry, expressed by its rotation around the transverse direction, is observed in the AR material.