bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability of cones and scale surface area of European larch (Larix decidua Mill.)
Authors: Aniszewska Monika , Stadnik Sylwia , Gendek Arkadiusz
Published: May 2018

The article describes the shape of the cones of the european larch (Larix decidua Mill.) using the fourth degree polynomial fitting function. The material is from the seed orchard of the Barycz Forest District. The curves were used to calculate the area and volume of single cones. it was not possible to generalize the formulas to calculate the surface and volume of larch cones using the described method, due to the large variability of the empirical coefficients of the equations. Finally, to calculate the area and volume of the cones, the formula to determine the solid figure of a cone was used. A constant αs of 0.43 was introduced to the formula. Calculated volume values were compared to actual volumes measured with a water-filled burette. The mean surface area of the larch cones was calculated from the forming function and was 780 mm2, and the volume was 2434 mm3. the values calculated from the cone formulas after taking into account the αs and constants (0.68 and 0.53) were 783 mm2 and 2415 mm3, respectively. the outer and inner surfaces of the seed scales located in the central part of the larch cones were photographed using a Quanta 200 scanning microscope. Specific features of the scales were measured using the Multi Scan Base program. We found that the outer and inner surfaces of the larch scales, as with pine and fir, differed. On the outer side, scales are formed by thick-walled cells with visible, protruding trichomes. thin-walled cells with jagged cell walls are visible on the inside at the location of the wings and seeds. long stem cells, resembling threads, were observed on the surface of the scales, which are absent on pine and fir seed scales.
New location of the moss Buxbaumia viridis in the Białowieża Forest
Authors: Gawryś Radosław , Szulc Adam
Published: May 2018

This paper describes a new occurrence and location of the green shield moss Buxbaumia viridis (Moug. ex Lam. & DC.) Brid. ex Moug. & Nestl. in the Białowieża Forest. One sporophyte was found on a decaying spruce log. However, its existence and the present environmental conditions of the site are threatened by the death of spruce trees. The dying of the spruce trees is expected for the near future and will lead to altered shade conditions impacting on the shield moss.
Reference and control plots – a useful tool for forestry?
Authors: Wójcicki Adam
Published: May 2018

In the current age, the increased need for the restoration of forest ecosystems necessitates a better understanding of natural processes. Forest stands that are affected only by natural processes and disturbances can serve as references and controls for comparison with cut or otherwise managed forests. Such a comparison may help us determine, whether our sylvicultural practices actually pursue the goal of sustainable development. It is also important to use uniform terminology across the world to facilitate sharing of experiences and results. Creating reference and control stands in every ecoregion will provide a rich scientific basis for comparison with managed forests and allow us to design and apply restoration methods more effectively.
Monitoring and modeling of forest ecosystems: the Estonian Network of Forest Research Plots / Metsaökosüsteemide seire ja modelleerimine metsa kasvukäigu püsiproovitükkide võrgustiku abil
Authors: Kiviste Andres , Hordo Maris , Kangur Ahto , Kardakov Anton , Laarmann Diana , Lilleleht Ando , Metslaid Sandra , Sims Allan , Korjus Henn
Published: May 2018

Forest research has long traditions in Estonia that can be traced back to the 19th century. Data from long-term forest experiments are available since 1921. The first studies mainly focused on silvicultural treatments and application of such data for understanding and modeling ecological processes was limited. The Department of Forest Management of the Estonian University of Life Sciences started to develop the Estonian Network of Forest Research Plots (ENFRP) in 1995. Since then, plots have been continuously re-measured with 5-year interval. Approximately 100-150 permanent sample plots were measured annually. In 2014, the long-term research network consisted of 729 permanent sample plots, of which 699 have been re-measured at least once, 667 plots - twice and 367 plots - three times. The total number of trees recorded in the network database amounts to 130,479. The plots are systematically distributed throughout the country. Detailed dendrometric measurements including tree spatial distribution are part of the survey protocol. Initially the network was set up to produce suitable data for development of individual tree growth models for Estonia. The significance of the network for the Estonian forest research is continuously increasing and nowadays ENFRP is recognized as an important national research infrastructure.
Forest management decision making based on a real options approach: An application to a case in northeastern Argentina
Authors: Broz Diego , Milanesi Gastón , Rossit Daniel Alejandro , Rossit Diego Gabriel , Tohmé Fernando
Published: May 2018

The Net Present Value (NPV) approach is widely applied to assess forest investments, but this method has serious shortcomings, which we propose to overcome by switching to the assessment through the Real Options Approach (ROA). The model in this paper starts with the simulation of the forest’s growth, combined with the projection of the products’ prices and valuing the assets using a binomial model. We include an option of postponement, determining the optimal period of felling. We find that ROA is more robust than the NPV approach because it relaxes the assumption of constancy of both the prices and the discount rate, allowing the determination of the optimal time of felling based on the growth rate of either the forest or the prices of its products. Contrary to the traditional NPV approach, the results obtained with ROA exhibit longer harvest turns and consequently higher profits. The key variable in the ROA, the Real Option Value (ROV) can be shown to be less (albeit moderately) sensitive to decreases of the discount rate than NPV. Moreover, ROV is moderately sensitive to decreases in the price of logs and is negligibly affected by rises in the costs of harvesting, loading and transporting rolls.
Lablab Purpureus Seeds Disrupt Hepatic and Renal Antioxidant Status in Male Rats
Authors: Soetan K. O. , Adedara I. A. , Farombi E. O.
Published: May 2018

Nutrition constitutes an essential aspect of health care in both humans and other animals. Despite the numerous studies conducted on Lablab purpureus seeds, there is a paucity of information on its effects on hepatic and renal antioxidant status. The present study investigated the influence of three varieties of Lablab purpureus seeds (Rongai Brown, Rongai White and Highworth Black) on hepatorenal antioxidant status in male Wistar rats. Group I (control) rats were fed with the standard rat chow for 14 days while Groups II, III and IV rats were separately fed with feed containing the Rongai Brown, Rongai White and Highworth Black for 14 days, respectively. Lablab purpureus caused a significant decrease in renal superoxide dismutase (SOD) but increased hepatic SOD activity along with increased catalase, glutathione- S-transferase and glutathione peroxidase activities in both liver and renal tissues when compared with the control. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in the hepatic glutathione (GSH) level with concomitant elevation in hepatic and renal hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation levels in all Lablab purpureus-fed rats. Lablab purpureus-fed rats demonstrated significant elevations in serum marker enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase along with increases in urea and creatinine levels. Histopathologically, kidney sections revealed normal renal architecture, whereas treatment-related lesions were identified in the liver of Lablab purpureus-fed rats. This study concluded that consumption of raw Lablab purpureus seeds induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats via the induction of oxidative stress.
In-situ ground gamma spectrometry — an effective tool for geological mapping (the Male Karpaty Mts., Slovakia)
Authors: Mojzeš Andrej , Porubčanová Barbara
Published: May 2018

This contribution presents the results of profile in-situ gamma spectrometry measurements that sought to determine the content of natural radionuclides 40K, 238U and 232Th in a near surface horizon of rocks, their weathering cover and soils in the area of the Malé Karpaty Mts. It is widely established that the exploration of radioactivity of bedrocks and cover rocks can be a very effective and useful tool for both geological mapping, for identifying deposits of mineral resources, and even addressing the issues of structural and tectonic geology. This assertion is equally confirmed by the ground gamma spectrometry measurements carried out as part of this case study on larger scales, seeking more detailed geological structure solutions. The results obtained provide a welcome addition to an already existing database, which monitors the content of naturally occurring radionuclides individually for every rock lithotype of the Western Carpathians, by elaborating on the data collected by previous research and by updating this database for any future needs. The presented results confirmed the low to medium radioactivity levels of rocks and soils in the studied area. The highest values were detected in granitoids and metamorfic phyllitic rocks of the Malé Karpaty Mts. core; the lowest values were detected in carbonates, arenaceous sediments and, above all, amphibolite bodies. In this way, the presented results of the interpreted profile (P5) confirm the model of local geological structure as represented on the most up-to-date edition of the geological map of the Male Karpaty Mts. (Polak et al. 2011).
Geostatistical support for categorization of metal ore resources in Poland
Authors: Mucha Jacek , Wasilewska-Błaszczyk Monika
Published: May 2018

The authors attempted to introduce some components of the Australasian JORC Code system to the categorization of Polish Cu-Ag and Zn-Pb ore resources. The proposed geostatistical method of resource categorization applies two criteria: continuity of deposit parameters described by semivariograms and permissible, relative standard error of resources estimation determined with the ordinary kriging procedure. Considering the first criterion, we propose the following values of autocorrelation coefficients, which define the ranges (distances) of the resources categories around the measurement sites (e.g., exploration wells): “measured” category (A + B in the Polish system) – the values of the autocorrelation coefficient from 1 to 2/3, “indicated” category (C1 in the Polish system) – the values of the autocorrelation coefficient from 2/3 to 1/3, “inferred” category (partly C2 in the Polish system) – the values of the autocorrelation coefficient from 1/3 to 1/20, “out-of-doors” category (partly D in the Polish system) – the values of autocorrelation coefficient from 1/20 to 0.

The second criterion of resources categorization is based upon the relative, standard errors of resources estimations calculated for the parts of deposit defined with the first criterion. The following permissible values of errors determined as the errors of ordinary kriging have been proposed: “measured” category (A + B in the Polish system) – 10% error, “indicated” category (C1 in the Polish system) – 20% error, “inferred” category (partly C2 in the Polish system) – 30% error, “out-of-doors” category (partly D in the Polish system) – 50% error.

It was found that the Polish metal ore deposits reveal low continuity of deposit parameters, as indicated by a high share of nugget variance in the overall variability of these parameters. Moreover, an inconsistency was observed between the semivariograms of deposit parameters based upon samplings of drill cores and underground mine workings, which results in extreme differences in the ranges of resources categories around the sampling sites. This, in turn, causes radical discrepancies in estimated resources. Thus, it was concluded that the sufficiently credible categorization of resources is only possible when a significant part of the deposit is explored with mine workings, in which the grid of sampling sites is much denser than that of exploration wells. It was proposed that the principal criterion of resources categorization should be the permissible error of estimations whereas the continuity of deposit parameters should only be a supplementary criterion.
Cyperus glomeratus L. – rediscovered in Slovakia
Authors: Melečková Zuzana , Dítě Daniel , Eliáš Pavol , Schmidt Dávid
Published: May 2018

Two new and one historical site of Cyperus glomeratus were discovered in SW Slovakia along the left bank of the river Danube. After 60 years, this is the second record of the species in the country. We provide details about the historical and current distribution of C. glomeratus in Slovakia based on herbarium revision and field survey on the Slovak section of the river Danube. According to the phytosociological data collected from the new locality (Čenkov) and from the confirmed historic locality (Štúrovo), the stands with C. glomeratus were identified with less developed, ruderalized form of the association Cyperetum micheliani.
Two new montane grassland communities from the SE Alps (N Slovenia)
Authors: Dakskobler Igor , Seliškar Andrej
Published: May 2018

On very steep dolomite slopes in the western foothills of the Kamnik Alps (Ravni hrib, Javorov vrh, Zaplata, Kriška gora) and southwestern Karavanke Mountains (Dobrča) we conducted a phytosociological study into montane grasslands (former hay meadows, partly pastures) where Gladiolus palustris, a species of European conservation concern, also occasionally occurs. They were compared with similar montane grasslands (former hay meadows) on sunny slopes of the Stol ridge above Breginj in the southwestern foothills of the Julian Alps. Based on this comparison we described three new syntaxa: Centaureo julici-Laserpitietum sileris gladioletosum palustris, Festuco amethystinae-Seslerietum calcariae and Pediculari julici-Bromopsietum transsilvanicae. Both new associations are classified into the alliance Caricion austroalpinae and treated as a long-term successional stage in the belt of altimontane beech forests from the association Ranunculo platanifolii-Fagetum.
Cichorin A: a benzo-isochromene from Nypa fruticans endophytic fungus Pestalotiopsis sp.
Authors: Alade Gideon O. , Moody Jones O. , Awotona Olanrewaju R. , Lai Daowan , Adesanya Saburi A. , Proksch Peter
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Similar bioactive metabolites are obtainable from host plants as well as the endophytic fungi residing in them. Objective: The aim of the study is to isolate the major compound(s) from the endophytic fungus residing in Nypa fruticans Wurmb, Arecaceae family. Methods: Purification of the ethyl acetate extract of the isolated endophytic fungus was performed by employing different chromatographic techniques and structural elucidation of the isolated compound was carried out using UV and NMR spectroscopic methods. Results: Cichorin A was isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of the solid rice cultures of Pestalotiopsis sp., isolated from N. fruticans, collected in Nigeria. Conclusions: This compound is being isolated for the first time from a fungus; it is commonly isolated from the plant Cichorium intybus L. (Compositae).
Terminalia chebula Retz. – an important medicinal plant
Authors: Kolla Jayaprakash Narayan , Kulkarni Nagaraj M. , Kura Rathanakar Reddy , Theepireddy Sravan Kumar Reddy
Published: May 2018

Ayurveda, whispered to be the ancient practice of healthcare existed and contributes a holistic approach to health, healing and longevity. Terminalia chebula Retz. is a popular plant and widely spread all over southern Asia. T. chebula is a native plant of India and its dried fruit is extensively used in various types of home remedies. Dried fruit of T. chebula contains high quantities phenolic compounds that consist of ellagic acid, gallic acid and chebulic acid. The fruit extract of T. chebula is known to display different biological properties like anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-protozoal, antimicrobial, hepato and renal protective activities, and in the management of metabolic syndrome. The phenolic active compounds might play vital role in the influence of biological activity. Fruit extract of T. chebula is widely employed as an important ingredient in various ayurvedic preparations like ‘Triphala’. This formulation is beneficial as detoxifying agent of the colon, purgative in chronic constipation, aids in digestion and as a body rejuvenator. The fruit has great medicinal significance and conventionally applied for the management of various illness conditions, such as sore throat, high cough, asthma, ulcers, gout, heart burn, vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery, bleeding piles and bladder diseases. It is also utilized as mild laxative, antispasmodic and stomachic. Because of these enormous medicinal properties, T. chebula is commonly termed as ‘King of Medicine’ in Tibet and can be called as a ‘wonder herb’. In the present review, recent advances in medicinal properties of T. chebula are discussed.
Intra-Personal and Inter-Personal Kinetic Synergies During Jumping
Authors: Slomka Kajetan , Juras Grzegorz , Sobota Grzegorz , Furmanek Mariusz , Rzepko Marian , Latash Mark L.
Published: May 2018

We explored synergies between two legs and two subjects during preparation for a long jump into a target. Synergies were expected during one-person jumping. No such synergies were expected between two persons jumping in parallel without additional contact, while synergies were expected to emerge with haptic contact and become stronger with strong mechanical contact. Subjects performed jumps either alone (each foot standing on a separate force platform) or in dyads (parallel to each other, each person standing on a separate force platform) without any contact, with haptic contact, and with strong coupling. Strong negative correlations between pairs of force variables (strong synergies) were seen in the vertical force in one-person jumps and weaker synergies in two-person jumps with the strong contact. For other force variables, only weak synergies were present in one-person jumps and no negative correlations between pairs of force variable for two-person jumps. Pairs of moment variables from the two force platforms at steady state showed positive correlations, which were strong in one-person jumps and weaker, but still significant, in two-person jumps with the haptic and strong contact. Anticipatory synergy adjustments prior to action initiation were observed in oneperson trials only. We interpret the different results for the force and moment variables at steady state as reflections of postural sway.
The Use of Thermal Imaging in the Evaluation of the Symmetry of Muscle Activity in Various Types of Exercises (Symmetrical and Asymmetrical)
Authors: Chudecka Monika , Lubkowska Anna , Leźnicka Katarzyna , Krupecki Krzysztof
Published: May 2018

In order to achieve higher efficiency of training and thus better athletic performance, new research and diagnostic methods are constantly being developed, particularly those that are non-invasive. One such a method is thermography, suitable for quantitative and therefore objective evaluation of variables, such as changes in the temperature of the skin covering working muscles. The aim of this study was to use a thermal imaging infrared camera to evaluate temperature changes of symmetric body surfaces over symmetrically working muscles of male scullers after exercising on a two-oared rowing ergometer and compare these to asymmetrically working muscles of handball players after an endurance training session containing elements of an actual game. In the scullers, the mean temperature of body surfaces was always lower post than pre exercise, with no significant differences in an average temperature drop between the opposite sides, indicating that the work of the muscles involved in the physical exertion on the rowing ergometer was symmetrical. In contrast, in the handball players, skin temperatures in symmetric areas over the asymmetrically working muscles showed statistically significant differences between sides, which was associated with the functional asymmetry of training. This study indicates that thermal imaging may be useful for coaches in the evaluation of technical preparations in sports in which equal involvement of symmetric muscles is a condition of success, e.g. in scullers.
Positional Role Differences in the Aerobic and Anaerobic Power of Elite Basketball Players
Authors: Pojskić Haris , Šeparović Vlatko , Užičanin Edin , Muratović Melika , Mačković Samir
Published: May 2018

The aim of the present study was to compare the aerobic and anaerobic power and capacity of elite male basketball players who played multiple positions. Fifty-five healthy players were divided into the following three different subsamples according to their positional role: guards (n = 22), forwards (n = 19) and centers (n = 14). The following three tests were applied to estimate their aerobic and anaerobic power and capacities: the countermovement jump (CMJ), a multistage shuttle run test and the Running-based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST). The obtained data were used to calculate the players’ aerobic and anaerobic power and capacities. To determine the possible differences between the subjects considering their different positions on the court, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the Bonferroni post-hoc test for multiple comparisons was used. The results showed that there was a significant difference between the different groups of players in eleven out of sixteen measured variables. Guards and forwards exhibited greater aerobic and relative values of anaerobic power, allowing shorter recovery times and the ability to repeat high intensity, basketball-specific activities. Centers presented greater values of absolute anaerobic power and capacities, permitting greater force production during discrete tasks. Coaches can use these data to create more individualized strength and conditioning programs for different positional roles.
The Effects of Sports Vision Training on Binocular Vision Function in Female University Athletes
Authors: Zwierko Teresa , Puchalska-Niedbał Lidia , Krzepota Justyna , Markiewicz Mikołaj , Woźniak Jarosław , Lubiński Wojciech
Published: May 2018

Binocular vision is the most important visual cue for spatial orientation in many sports. In this study, we investigated how binocular vision was influenced by an eye training program that may be used to improve individual’s oculomotor function. The experiment involved twenty-four female student athletes from team ball sports (soccer, basketball, handball). After an initial testing session, 12 participants were randomly allocated to the experimental group. Optometric investigation which included synoptophore testing and a test of dissociated horizontal phoria based on the Maddox method was performed three times: before the experiment, after eight weeks of eye training (3 times a week for 20 minutes), and four weeks after the experiment was terminated. Eye exercise methodology was based on orthoptic, sport and psychological aspects of performance. The phoria screening examination showed that exophoria was the most frequent disorder of binocular vision. Low fusional vergence range was also observed. Following the training period, 3 of the 6 oculomotor variables improved. The greatest effect was observed in near dissociated phoria (χ²=14.56, p=0.001 for the right eye; χ²=14.757, p=0.001 for the left eye) and fusional convergence (χ²=8.522, p=0.014). The results of the retention test conducted four weeks after the experiment confirmed the effectiveness of the vision training program. The results of the study suggest that binocular functions are trainable and can be improved by means of appropriate visual training
Relationship Between Competitive Strategies and the Success Perception of Polish Born Globals
Authors: Baranowska-Prokop Ewa , Sikora Tomasz
Published: May 2018

The key objective of this paper is to describe and evaluate the competitive strategies applied by Polish born global enterprises. To reveal these strategies, two competitive models developed by M.E. Porter are applied to an original data set obtained from 256 small and medium Polish enterprises through a survey employing the CATI technique. The outcomes of these strategies, as perceived by the companies applying them, are also evaluated against two hypotheses. We conclude that Polish firms apply both basic strategies of competition, i.e. cost leadership strategies and differentiation strategies and that a substantial majority of companies perceive themselves to have succeeded on the market.
Oleuropein and rutin protect against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells through modulation of mitochondrial function and unfolded protein response
Authors: Elmazoglu Zubeyir , Ergin Volkan , Sahin Ergin , Kayhan Handan , Karasu Cimen
Published: May 2018

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a highly prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, often associated with oxidative stress-induced transcriptional changes in dopaminergic neurons. Phenolic antioxidants, oleuropein (OLE) and rutin (RUT) have attracted a great interest due to their potential to counteract oxidative protein aggregation and toxicity. This study aimed at examining the effects of OLE and RUT against 6-OHDA-induced stress response in rat pheochromocytoma cells. When differentiated PC12 cells were exposed to oxidative stress composer 6-OHDA (100 μM, 8 h), a decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) was observed along with a significant loss of cell viability and apoptotic nuclear changes. Exposure to 6-OHDA resulted in unfolded protein response (UPR) in differentiated PC12 cells as evidenced by an increased level of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized transmembrane signal transducer IRE1α, adaptive response proteins ATF-4 and proapoptotic transcription factor CHOP. OLE or RUT pretreatment (24 h) at low doses (1-50 μM) protected the differentiated PC12 cells from 6-OHDA-induced cytotoxicity as assessed by increased viability, improved ΔΨm and inhibited apoptosis, whereas relatively high doses of OLE or RUT (>50 μM) inhibited cell growth and proliferation, indicating a typical hormetic effect. In hormetic doses, OLE and RUT up-regulated 6-OHDA-induced increase in IRE1α, ATF-4 and inhibited CHOP, PERK, BIP and PDI. 6-OHDA-activated XBP1 splicing was also inhibited by OLE or RUT. The presented results suggest that neuroprotection against 6-OHDA-induced oxidative toxicity may be attributable to neurohormetic effects of OLE or RUT at low doses through regulating mitochondrial functions, controlling persistent protein misfolding, activating and/or amplificating the adaptive response-related signaling pathways, leading to UPR prosurvival output.
Antioxidant SMe1EC2 modulates pentose phosphate pathway and glutathione-dependent enzyme activities in tissues of aged diabetic rats
Authors: Ulusu Nuray Nuriye , Gök Müslüm , Sayin Şakul Arzu Ayşe , Ari Nuray , Stefek Milan , Karasu Çimen
Published: May 2018

The pentose phosphate pathway and glutathione-associated metabolism are the main antioxidant cellular defense systems. This study investigated the effects of the powerful antioxidant SMe1EC2 (2-ethoxycarbonyl-8-methoxy-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b] indolinium dichloride) on pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) and glutathione-dependent enzyme activities in aged diabetic and aged matched control rats. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection in rats aged 13-15 months. Diabetic and control rats were divided into two subgroups, one untreated and one treated with SMe1EC2 (10 mg/kg/day, orally) for 4 months. SMe1EC2 ameliorated body weight loss, but not hyperglycemia of aged diabetic rats. Diabetes resulted in decreased glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST), yet in unchanged glutathione reductase (GR) in the liver of aged diabetic rats. In the liver of the aged control rats, SMe1EC2 did not affect G6PDH, 6PGDH and GR, but it inhibited GST. SMe1EC2 also failed to affect diabetes-induced decline in 6PGDH, it ameliorated G6PDH but produced further decline in GST in the liver of aged diabetic rats. In the kidney of aged rats, G6PDH and GST were found to be comparable among the groups, but diabetes up-regulated 6PGDH and GR; these alterations were prevented by SMe1EC2. In the heart of aged diabetic rats, while GST remained unchanged, the recorded increase in G6PD, 6PGD, GR was prevented by SMe1EC2. Furthermore, an unchanged GR and remarkable increases in G6PD, 6PGD and GST were found in the lung of the aged diabetic group. These alterations were completely prevented by SMe1EC2. The results suggest that in aged rats SMe1EC2 can ameliorate the response of the kidney, heart and lung but not that of the liver against diabetes-induced glucotoxicity by interfering with the activity of redox network enzymes.
ASONIKA System – Radio-Electronic Facilities Developer Tool
Authors: Shalumov A. S. , Pershin E. O. , Kulikov O. E.
Published: May 2018

This article deals with issues and analysis tasks, electronic elements and radio-electronic facilities reliability simulation with due regard for thermal, mechanical, electro-magnetic and other exposures, also software analysis is performed.
How Random Is Spatiotemporal Chaos of Langton's Ant?1
Authors: Luptáková I. I. Dirgová , Pospíchal J.
Published: May 2018

In recent years there have been numerous attempts to control chaotic behavior by evolutionary optimization. Most of these attempts were aimed at a study of chaotic systems defined by differential equations, but a few attempts were made also at evolutionary design of initial conditions or rules of cellular automata aimed at performing a specified task. We shall use a simple cellular automaton called Langton's ant after its designer, Christopher Langton. Generally, the ant acts on a 2D grid, where each it’s square can be either black or white. The ant is facing in one of four directions, and its behavior is described by 3 rules: (1) If ant is on a black square, it makes a left turn. (2) If ant is on a white square, it makes a right turn. (3) When ant moves to the next square, the one it was on reverses color. Despite simplicity of these rules, the ant produces extremely complex behavior, but after around 10000 steps the ant begins to construct a diagonal „highway“. This stable attractor has been always achieved regardless of the initial setting of black and white squares, but there is no proof, that it is always so. This behavior can be related to the undecidability of the halting problem. Our goal in this paper is to optimize initial conditions for the ant on a grid, so that it will be maximally “slowed down” in the sense that it should arrive at the preset boundary of the grid as late as possible. By a comparison of greedy stochastic optimization with an optimization by blind search are able to estimate, that is this chaotic system is not reasonably controllable and appears to have no regularity in the “optimal” initial conditions.
The Effect of Food Prices on Inflation in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Radukić Snežana , Marković Milan , Radović Milica
Published: May 2018

In the Republic of Serbia, food accounts for a significant share in the consumer price index through which the inflation is statistically expressed. Therefore, in considerations of the basic factors of increase in the general price level, a special emphasis is placed on the specific features of the market of agricultural-food products. The aim of this research is to peruse the effect of the characteristics of the food market in Serbia on the inflation rate. High volatility of food prices is present because of the instability of this market, mainly due to seasonal fluctuations of supply and the effect of natural factors. Bearing in mind that the increase in food prices is the main determinant of the increase in the inflation rate, the indirect state control is very important so as to maintain price stability. Special importance is attached to the following instruments of economic policy: commodity reserves, storage policy, and fiscal and foreign trade policy.
Revival of Legacy of Tooke and Gibson: Implications for Monetary Policy
Authors: Rehman Atiq-ur
Published: May 2018

The monetary policy rules used by central banks these days are based on the assumption that inflation could be reduced by increasing interest rate. On contrary, Tooke (1774-1858), the forefather of monetary economics, was of the view that the relationship between interest rate and inflation should be positive. His view was based on simple logic, ‘interest is a part of cost, and therefore, the increase in interest rate should increase inflation by increasing cost of production (Tooke, 1838)’. Tooke’s view has got support from a number of empirical evidence including Gibson (1923) who found positive correlation between two variables for UK data over a period of 200 years. On the other hand, mainstream economic thinking on which the actual monetary practices are based ignored any possibility of positive relationship between interest rate and inflation throughout the history. The existence of Tooke’s cost side effects of monetary policy is a serious concern because if these effects exist than the use of monetary policy would be counterproductive. Using the data from entire globe, I attempt to explore the nature of relationship between the interest rate and inflation. I found that the data supports the perception of Tooke and Gibson and denies that the effectiveness of monetary policy currently adapted by the correlation between interest rate and inflation is positive. The results are robust to sample size, sample period, and various definitions of interest rate and inflation.
Inflation Targeting in Serbia
Authors: Fabris Jelena
Published: May 2018

Serbia introduced inflation targeting regime in August 2006. After nine years of its application, conclusions may be drawn on the (un)successfulness of the regime. Inflation targets have not been achieved during seven of nine observed years. Key difficulties in the application of the regime refer to insufficient efficiency of monetary policy instruments, insufficient confidence in the domestic currency (widely spread informal euroisation), and indexing of prices according to the exchange rate.

The paper consists of four sections. The first section analyses theoretical assumptions of the inflation targeting regime. The second part describes the characteristics of the regime in Serbia. The third section analyses results, while the fourth section analyses the reasons for insufficient efficiency of the regime and gives actual suggestions for improving the existing regime.
Measuring the Channels of Monetary Policy Transmission: A Factor-Augmented Vector Autoregressive (Favar) Approach
Authors: Senbet Dawit
Published: May 2018

There is more consensus on the effects of monetary policy than its transmission mechanism. Two channels of transmission mechanisms are the conventional interest rate channel and the credit channel. I investigate the channels of monetary policy transmission in the U.S. using the factor-augmented vector autoregressive (FAVAR) models developed by Bernanke, Boivin & Eliasz (2005). The newly developed FAVAR approach allows the researcher to include all relevant macroeconomic variables in the model and analyze them. Therefore, the FAVAR models span a larger information set and generate better estimates of impulse response functions than the commonly used vector autoregressive (VAR) models that utilize only 4–8 variables. I include 154 monthly U.S. time series variables for the period 1970–2014. The findings support the existence of the credit channel in the U.S. The conclusion remains the same when the non-borrowed reserve operating regime (October 1979–October 1982) is removed from the sample period.
Relevance of Low Inflation in the Southeastern European Countries
Authors: Lakić Slobodan , Šehović Damir , Drašković Mimo
Published: May 2018

The paper starts from the assumption that the significant reduction of the inflation problem is a result of the long-term dynamics of economic growth in countries with developing markets and, as a result, operational inability of multinational companies to increase accumulation through the policy of raising prices by creating space for their full expansion. We believe that in such circumstances civil theories on the causes of inflation are dominantly of class character. We check negative repercussions of low inflation on the examples of the countries of South-East Europe, in the regimes with fixed and flexible exchange rates, and with different strategies of monetary policy. We conclude that destructive implications of the financial crisis and psychological factors have a negative impact on a sustainable low-inflation environment, regardless of the monetary-exchange regime. We propose that low and stable inflation rates can be followed by a series of negative implications for the overall economic system, which our analysis of the observed countries proves.
Financial Education of Children and Youth
Authors: Fabris Nikola , Luburić Radoica
Published: May 2018

More and more individuals are becoming overindebted and facing difficulties in managing personal finance. On the other hand, financial products are becoming more and more complex, with numerous concealed risks. The level of financial literacy of youth and children is unsatisfactory both in the region and globally. Such a situation could lead to personal problems (financial distress), aggravated financial stability, with reverse adverse implications on economic growth. Many international studies have also confirmed these hypotheses.

The aim of this paper is to point to the importance of financial education of youth and children, as well as to give some guidance on how to develop a national programme for increasing financial literacy. The paper develops a five-step programme with the main topics covering the drafting of a national strategy for developing financial literacy of youth and children and its implementation.
Determinants of Credit Growth: The Case of Montenegro
Authors: Ivanović Maja
Published: May 2018

In the period before the crisis, Montenegro experienced a rapid credit growth, which coincided with the privatization of several banks and was followed by the entry of foreign banking groups, amplifying the banks’ lending process and increasing competition in this sector. This paper focuses on identification and estimation of determinants of credit growth in Montenegro, exploring both demand and supply side factors, and particularly paying attention to supply factors. Our findings confirm that positive economic developments and an increase in banks’ deposit potential lead to higher credit growth. Furthermore, our findings emphasize that the banking system soundness is decisive for promoting further bank’s lending activities. We provide evidence that the weakening of banks’ balance sheets, in terms of high non-performing loans and low solvency ratio, has a negative effect on credit supply.

In addition, this paper provides a nuanced analysis of the determinants of credit growth by allowing these to be different before and after the global financial crisis. The post-crisis model finds that credit supply indicators gained in importance in explaining credit growth, while the model in pre-crisis period provides evidence that both demand and supply indicators matter in explaining credit growth.
Some Empirical Evidence of Loan Loss Provisions for Albanian Banks
Authors: Dushku Elona
Published: May 2018

In this paper we used a panel of Albanian banks for the period 2004-2014 to examine the main determinants of loan loss provisions. In addition, we tested how the latest crisis has affected provisioning behaviour of the banks. We find that loan loss provisions of banks are driven by non-discretionary components and economic fluctuations. Furthermore, we find a positive and significant result between earnings before interest, taxes and provisions and loan loss provisions, thus confirming the income smoothing hypothesis. Our estimated results do not support the capital management and signalling hypotheses. We also find that the global crisis has contributed significantly to the procyclicality of loan loss provisioning in Albania and banks continued to do income smoothing during the crisis.
Bankruptcy Practice in Countries of Visegrad Four
Authors: Misankova Maria , Zvarikova Katarina , Kliestikova Jana
Published: May 2018

Numerous economists and analysts from all over the world have been trying to find an appropriate method to assess company health and to predict its eventual financial distress for many years. No economy is a small isolated subject, and the bankruptcy of a company can cause through its stakeholders′ significant impact on the sustainable economic development. Otherwise, companies are very complicated entities, and it is not a simple task to estimate company’s future development. Together with the best-known Z-Score model of bankruptcy prediction developed by Altman, numerous models worldwide that are based on different methodologies have been developed. We assume that individual state’s economy has major influence on the final form of these models as well as there are several common characteristics between Slovak economy and economy of countries of Visegrad Four. Therefore, we applied chosen bankruptcy prediction models developed in countries of Visegrad Four on the set of Slovak companies and validated their prediction ability in specific condition of the Slovak economy. On the basis of the provided calculations, we compared gained results with the prediction capability of other popular prediction models also applied on the data set of Slovak companies. Through this, we pointed out the importance of the development of unique bankruptcy prediction model, which will be constructed in the specific condition of individual countries, and highlighted the weak forecasting ability of foreign models.
Water Cycle Algorithm Based Power System Stabilizer Robust Design for Power Systems
Authors: Ghaffarzadeh Navid
Published: May 2018

Power System Stabilizers (PSSs) are used to enhance damping of power system oscillations. This paper presents a new fast algorithm to develop PSS. According to this regard, Water Cycle Algorithm (WCA) is used to detect optimum Power System Stabilizer parameters. For this purpose, the design problem of PSS is formulated as an optimization problem and WCA by forming three subsidiary objective functions is employed to search for optimal power system stabilizer’s parameters to minimize the maximum overshoot and settling time together. In order to show the efficiency of the proposed algorithm, a comparison between WCA and without PSS condition has been done, and the results of proposed algorithm show that it detects optimum parameters in reasonable computation time to increase the power system stability.
The Environmental Education Dimensions for Sustainable Development
Authors: Iovan Martian
Published: May 2018

Based both on a historical approach regarding the evolution of the environmental education between 1960 and present days, and on empirical research as well, the author proves that the efficiency of the environmental education could be much higher if included within the broader sphere of moral and civic education and if it is driven by a more extensive ideal sprung from the fundamental human right to a clean and well preserved environment, by the contemporary moral and civil values. The author pleads and motivates for an increased capitalization of the humanities and social sciences, of art, of environmental ethics and aesthetics in shaping “the ecological personality” of the tomorrow people. When shaping these personality traits through environmental education activities, one must emphasize the importance of practice and applied actions aimed to protect the environment, and in general, the practice of civic-moral education methods.
A Concept of a Ship Domain for the Use of Navigational Safety Assessment / Analiza Bezpieczeństwa Morskiego z Wykorzystaniem Domeny Wokół Statku
Authors: Marcjan Krzysztof , Gucma Lucjan
Published: May 2018

One of the most important concepts concerning the safety of navigation is the ship domain. The maritime domain is one of the oldest domains, which preceded the ones used in aviation, railway industry, chemical industry and medical. Through the concept of a ship domain is to be understood a certain area around the vessel, which the navigator wants to keep free of other fixed and moving objects. Navigational situation can be considered safe as long as no other ship neither any navigational obstacle would not exceed the area. In order to build and develop methods to assess the safety of the navigation, a ship probabilistic domains for three types of vessel encounter situations were determined based on the AIS traffic monitoring data. The aim of the paper is to present a method to identify navigational incidents on the basis of a probabilistic domain, which can be used to assess the safety of navigation and discovery places potentially dangerous for navigation in the selected areas of the Baltic Sea.
Reliability-Exploitation Analysis of Highway Transport Telematics Systems / Analiza Niezawodnościowo-Eksploatacyjna Autostradowych Systemów Telematyki Transportu
Authors: Siergiejczyk Mirosław , Rosiński Adam , Dziula Przemysław , Krzykowska Karolina
Published: May 2018

This paper presents the issues connected with highway transport telematics systems. The particular attention is paid to the highway emergency communications systems. There is described their structure and functioning. It also presented the general reliability-exploitation model. It allows to determinate the probability of staying of the system in the distinguished operating states.
Research Methodology of Water Network Failure in Terms of Reneval / Metodologia Badania Awaryjności Sieci Wodociągowej w Aspekcie Jej Odnowy
Authors: Pietrucha-Urbanik Katarzyna , Tchórzewska-Cieślak Barbara
Published: May 2018

The important and crucial issue concerning water supply functioning in terms of conducting failure analysis were discussed. In the work failure indicators, water losses and availability of water services, that define standards of quality water services and their values were determined based on data from exploitation. In order to understand the current situation of water supply infrastructure it is necessary to perform periodic analyzes of water supply network failure, which was proposed in this paper. A detailed analysis of the failure and the water loss of the water supply network should be the main element of the urban management water supply network, particularly in the strategic plans for its modernization.
Quality Assurance in Clinical Chemistry: A Touch of Statistics and A Lot of Common Sense
Authors: Theodorsson Elvar
Published: May 2018

Working in laboratories of clinical chemistry, we risk feeling that our personal contribution to quality is small and that statistical models and manufacturers play the major roles. It is seldom sufficiently acknowledged that personal knowledge, skills and common sense are crucial for quality assurance in the interest of patients. The employees, environment and procedures inherent to the laboratory including its interactions with the clients are crucial for the overall result of the total testing chain. As the measurement systems, reagents and procedures are gradually improved, work on the preanalytical, postanalytical and clinical phases is likely to pay the most substantial dividends in accomplishing further quality improvements. This means changing attitudes and behaviour, especially of the users of the laboratory. It requires understanding people and how to engage them in joint improvement processes. We need to use our knowledge and common sense expanded with new skills e.g. from the humanities, management, business and change sciences in order to bring this about together with the users of the laboratory.