bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Late-acting self-incompatibility and a narrow floral tube as underlying stylar dimorphism in Narcissus (Amaryllidaceae)
Authors: Simón-Porcar Violeta
Published: November 2018

Most heterostylous species show self- and intramorph incompatibility and models established for such taxa have traditionally been applied to the evolution of stylar dimorphism and heterostyly in Narcissus, a genus with late-acting self-incompatibility. The model of Lloyd and Webb (1992a,b) proposed that, in an approach-herkogamous ancestor, stylar dimorphism and heterostyly appeared consecutively as a result of two single mutations selected positively to enhance cross-pollination. Most polymorphic Narcissus are stylar dimorphic with two anther whorls, the lower positioned in the middle of a narrow floral tube, and style lengths that locate the stigmas above or below the low-level anthers. Here, I propose that in an ancestor with open-tubed flowers, late-acting self-incompatibility and variable style length, the narrowing of the floral tube increased self-pollination and ovule discounting in individuals with the stigma at the same height as the low-level anthers, imposing disruptive selection against this phenotype and causing the bimodal distribution of style lengths. This hypothesis stresses the need of avoiding self-interference for the selection of stylar dimorphism. It does not exclude the promotion of cross-pollination as a force for subsequent evolution of heterostyly in the genus nor the need of inter-morph pollination for the maintenance of polymorphism.
Impact of demographic variables on emotional intelligence levels amongst a sample of early career academics at a South African higher education institution
Authors: Marembo Matthew , Chinyamurindi Willie T.
Published: November 2018

Orientation: Emotional intelligence (EI) is highlighted by the literature as an important attribute that enables an individual to cope with changes and pressures in the work environment and subsequently yields consistent performance. However, some scholars debate the role of demographic diversities and their impact on levels of EI amongst individuals.Research purpose: This study examined the influence of demographic variables on EI levels amongst early career academics (ECAs).Motivation for the study: The study interrogates demographic variables and EI, two issues important in the 21st-century workforce setting. The relationship between the two may be of value to the debate surrounding the success of early career professionals in the higher education sector. The success of ECAs should be of importance to institutions of higher learning.Research approach/design and method: A quantitative approach was followed in conducting the study. Data were collected from a sample of 220 ECAs in a selected university in South Africa. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to the participants using SurveyMonkey online data collection tool. EI was measured using the Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale.Main findings: Significant EI level differences were observed based on the participants’ ethnic background. However, no significant differences in EI levels could be found based on the respondents’ gender, age and work experience.Practical/managerial implications: The findings may be relevant to career management and human resources forecasting.Contribution/value-add: The study adds to the literature on EI and career success of early career professionals.
Prevalence and factors associated with postnatal depression among women in two rural districts of Manicaland, Zimbabwe
Authors: January James , Chimbari Moses J.
Published: November 2018

Background: Low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by postnatal depression (PND). High prevalence of PND in urban Zimbabwe has been reported but the situation in rural settings is largely unknown and this is one of the first studies to report prevalence of PND in Chipinge and Mutasa districts.Objectives: This study explored the prevalence and associated factors of PND among women attending postnatal care services in two rural districts of Chipinge and Mutasa, Manicaland, Zimbabwe between August and September 2017.Methods: One hundred and ninety-two women were recruited consecutively as they attended postnatal services at 7 days and 42 days post-delivery. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, fifth edition criteria was used to classify depression among participants. Prevalence of PND and 95.0% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated and associations with key socio-demographic and risk factors assessed.Results: The mean age of participants was 23.7 years (standard deviation = 6.14). Pooled prevalence of PND across the two districts was 26.0% (95% CI: 19.04–31.74). There was a higher prevalence of PND in Mutasa (31.0%) as compared to Chipinge (21.48%) but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.142). Having insufficient food in the household, intimate partner violence and having a child with birthweight under 2500 g significantly increased the likelihood of PND twofold: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.8 (95% CI: 1.2–6.1), aOR = 2.5 (95% CI: 1.2–5.3) and aOR = 2.4 (95% CI: 1.1–5.6), respectively.Conclusion: The high prevalence of PND and its associated risk factors indicates the need for routine screening and targeted interventions for PND in Zimbabwe, especially in rural areas.
Homogeneous Einstein Finsler Metrics on -dimensional Spheres
Authors: Huang Libing , Mo Xiaohuan
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we study a class of homogeneous Finsler metrics of vanishing $S$-curvature on a $(4n+3)$-dimensional sphere. We find a second order ordinary differential equation that characterizes Einstein metrics with constant Ricci curvature $1$ in this class. Using this equation we show that there are infinitely many homogeneous Einstein metrics on $S^{4n+3}$ of constant Ricci curvature $1$ and vanishing $S$-curvature. They contain the canonical metric on $S^{4n+3}$ of constant sectional curvature $1$ and the Einstein metric of non-constant sectional curvature given by Jensen in 1973.
Different sensitivities of litter decomposition and nutrient release to ultraviolet radiation
Authors: Yan Weiming , Shangguan Zhouping , Zhong Yangquanwei
Published: November 2018

Abstract. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation plays an important role in litter decomposition. Despite years of research, it is still not fully understood that the role of UV radiation in litter decomposition and carbon (C) and nutrient release, as well as the direct (litter decay directly exposed to UV) and indirect (plants received UV during growth) effects. In this study, a meta-analysis that comprised 54 published studies concerning UV radiation experiments, including 598 observations, was performed to quantify the responses of litter decomposition and C and nutrient release to UV radiation. The direct and indirect effects of UV-B enhancement on litter decomposition did not differ, but the direct effects of litter weight loss were more sensitive than the indirect effects under UV attenuation. Changes in UV radiation did not affect litter decomposition under laboratory conditions, but litter type only affected the rate of decomposition. In addition, the weight loss under UV radiation exhibited three-stage temporal dynamics: UV enhancement accelerated litter decomposition but required UV accumulation, whereas the UV attenuation effect decreased with time. The litter decomposition rates increased with decreasing precipitation (
On the impact of recent developments of the LMDz atmospheric general circulation model on the simulation of CO2 transport
Authors: Remaud Marine , Chevallier Frédéric , Cozic Anne , Lin Xin , Bousquet Philippe
Published: November 2018

Abstract. The quality of the representation of greenhouse gas (GHG) transport in
atmospheric general circulation models (GCMs) drives the potential of inverse
systems to retrieve GHG surface fluxes to a large extent. In this work, the
transport of CO2 is evaluated in the latest version of the Laboratoire de
Météorologie Dynamique (LMDz) GCM,
developed for the Climate Model Intercomparison Project 6 (CMIP6) relative to
the LMDz version developed for CMIP5. Several key changes have been
implemented between the two versions, which include a more elaborate
radiative scheme, new subgrid-scale parameterizations of convective and
boundary layer processes and a refined vertical resolution. We performed a
set of simulations of LMDz with different physical parameterizations, two
different horizontal resolutions and different land surface schemes, in order
to test the impact of those different configurations on the overall transport
simulation. By modulating the intensity of vertical mixing, the physical
parameterizations control the interhemispheric gradient and the amplitude of
the seasonal cycle in the Northern Hemisphere, as emphasized by the
comparison with observations at surface sites. However, the effect of the new
parameterizations depends on the region considered, with a strong impact over
South America (Brazil, Amazonian forest) but a smaller impact over Europe,
East Asia and North America. A finer horizontal resolution reduces the
representation errors at observation sites near emission hotspots or along
the coastlines. In comparison, the sensitivities to the land surface model
and to the increased vertical resolution are marginal.
Global emissions pathways under different socioeconomic scenarios for use in CMIP6: a dataset of harmonized emissions trajectories through the end of the century
Authors: Gidden Matthew J. , Riahi Keywan , Smith Steven J. , Fujimori Shinichiro , Luderer Gunnar , Kriegler Elmar , van Vuuren Detlef P. , van den Berg Maarten , Feng Leyang , Klein David , Calvin Katherine , Doelman Johnathan C. , Frank Stefan , Fricko Oliver , Harmsen Mathijs , Hasegawa Tomoko , Havlik Petr , Hilaire Jérôme , Hoesly Rachel , Horing Jill , Popp Alexander , Stehfest Elke , Takahashi Kioshi
Published: November 2018

Abstract. We present a suite of nine scenarios of future emissions trajectories of anthropogenic sources, a key deliverable of the ScenarioMIP experiment within CMIP6. Integrated Assessment Model results for 14 different emissions species and 13 emissions sectors are provided for each scenario with consistent transitions from the historical data used in CMIP6 to future trajectories using automated harmonization before being downscaled to provide higher emission source spatial detail. We find that the scenarios span a wide range of end-of-century radiative forcing values, thus making this set of scenarios ideal for exploring a variety of warming pathways. The set of scenarios are bounded on the low end by a 1.9 W m-2 scenario, ideal for analyzing a world with end-of-century temperatures well below 2 °C, and on the high-end by a 8.5 W m-2 scenario, resulting in an increase in warming of nearly 5 °C over pre-industrial levels. Between these two extremes, scenarios are provided such that differences between forcing outcomes provide statistically significant regional temperature outcomes to maximize their usefulness for downstream experiments within CMIP6. A wide range of scenario data products are provided for the CMIP6 scientific community including global, regional, and gridded emissions datasets.
On the suitability of the Thorpe–Mason model for calculating sublimation of saltating snow
Authors: Sharma Varun , Comola Francesco , Lehning Michael
Published: November 2018

Abstract. The Thorpe and Mason (TM) model for calculating the mass lost from a
sublimating snow grain is the basis of all existing small- and large-scale
estimates of drifting snow sublimation and the associated snow mass balance
of polar and alpine regions. We revisit this model to test its validity for
calculating sublimation from saltating snow grains. It is shown that
numerical solutions of the unsteady mass and heat balance equations of an
individual snow grain reconcile well with the steady-state solution of the TM
model, albeit after a transient regime. Using large-eddy simulations (LESs),
it is found that the residence time of a typical saltating particle is
shorter than the period of the transient regime, implying that using the
steady-state solution might be erroneous. For scenarios with equal initial
air and particle temperatures of 263.15 K, these errors range from 26 % for
low-wind, low-saturation-rate conditions to 38 % for high-wind, high-saturation-rate conditions. With a small temperature difference of 1 K
between the air and the snow particles, the errors due to the TM model are
already as high as 100 % with errors increasing for larger temperature
differences.
QUEDA DO MESMO NÍVEL EM IDOSOS: FATORES ASSOCIADOS AO TRAUMA CRANIOENCEFÁLICO E RAQUIMEDULAR
Authors: Silva Josy Anne , Moreno Gustavo Henrique Marques , Hayakawa Liliana Yukie , Inoue Kelly Cristina , Cuman Roberto Kenji Nakamura
Published: November 2018

Objetivo: identificar fatores associados à ocorrência de trauma cranioencefálico e raquimedular entre idosos que sofreram queda do mesmo nível. Método: estudo retrospectivo, com 192 prontuários de idosos que sofreram queda do mesmo nível em 2014 e foram atendidos no Pronto Atendimento de um hospital de ensino do Paraná. Realizou-se teste Z, para comparação de proporções do grupo com (n=80) e sem (n=112) trauma cranioencefálico ou raquimedular com dados demográficos, de saúde, da queda e da avaliação/atendimento. Resultados: dos idosos identificados, 80 (41,7%) tiveram traumatismo cranioencefálico ou raquimedular. Houve associação significativa com a ocorrência de traumatismo cranioencefálico ou raquimedular: sexo masculino (p=0,0109), transporte especializado (p=0,0001), queda em via pública (p=0,0026), ausência de hipertensão arterial (p=0,0434) e presença de doença psiquiátrica (p=0,0048). Conclusão: o trauma cranioencefálico ou raquimedular é um evento frequente associado à queda do mesmo nível, o que denota a necessidade de medidas educativas e preventivas visando à redução da quedas.
Evaluation of Tacrolimus Combined With Corticosteroids vs Modified Ponticelli Regimen as Treatments for Refractory Primary Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Navarro-Quiroz Elkin , Aroca-Martinez Gustavo , Domínguez-Vargas Alex , Alonso-López María José , Alvarado-Echeverría Rebeca , Navarro-Quiroz Roberto , Silva-Díaz Diana , Escorcia Lorena Gomez , González-Tórres Henry J.
Published: November 2018

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the immunosuppressive treatment response to modified Ponticelli regimen (MPR) and oral corticosteroid (OC) plus tacrolimus (TAC) in patients with primary membranous nephropathy (PMN).

METHODS: Retrospective cohort analytical study. Adults patients (>18 years old) with diagnosis of refractory PMN (>50% increase in serum creatinine or a level >1.5mg/dl or proteinuria refractory to 6 months of supportive treatment), proved by renal biopsy and immunofluorescence between 2008 and 2016 from the Nephropathy Registry of Colombia (NEFRORED©) were included. Immunosuppressive treatment response was evaluated from baseline to 6 months after the start of therapy.

RESULTS: 128 patients with PMN were included, of which 74 (57%) were female. The most frequent syndromic diagnosis was nephrotic syndrome 90 (70%), followed by asymptomatic urinary disorders 31 (25%). Chronic kidney disease manifested concomitantly in 7 (5%) patients. At the end of 6 months, 86 (67%) cases achieved some degree of remission: 23 (18%) complete response (CR) and 63 (49%) cases with partial response (PR), while 42 (33%) cases did not achieved remission. In the TAC+OC group, CR and PR were seen in 14 (20%) and 33 (47%) patients, respectively; and 9 (16%) and 30 (51%) patients in the MPR group, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found when comparing the immunosuppressive treatment response rate with both treatment groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: In the PMN, both immunosuppressive treatments (TAC+OC vs MPR) are comparable. We suggest a clinical follow-up of the anti-PLA2R/THSD7A titres at 6/12 months to be correlated with renal function in subsequent studies.
Family Characterization of a Population of the Municipality of Puerto Colombia, Atlántico/Colombia
Authors: Díaz-Pérez Anderson , Pérez-Lavalle Liliana , Mercado Anabell Donado , García Gladys Gaviria , Torres Viviana Silva , Amell Gloria Lastre , Parejo Aida Ferrer
Published: November 2018

INTRODUCTION: The family as a fundamental structure of society is exposed to different economic, social and health problems. Families in conditions of vulnerability become an element of protection but also of dominance and power; because they are born without being aware of their status or they even normalize their condition of extreme poverty, not to mention the exposure to natural hazards of their geographical area due to being in close proximity to the sea, which leads to people being grouped, creating problems of violence due to overcrowding, lack of formal employment, as well as lack of access to education or basic sanitation services. These groups are considered as social groups with limited resources.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the family structure of the household head members and their main practices of managing with vulnerability states on topics as health, economic and educational in the inhabitants of the Vista Mar neighborhood in the Municipality of Puerto Colombia / Atlántico.

METHODOLOGY: Descriptive cross-sectional study with a sample of 135 inhabitants grouped into 27 families. An observation form and a survey were applied to the person of family care or economic maintenance.

RESULTS: The level of education of the head of household has very low academic training with ages ranging from 20 to 60 years with informal occupations in 39.37%.

CONCLUSIONS: The woman is responsible for the care of the members of the family and the man financially supports the home. The families are formed by adults and young people with training at the primary, secondary and technical levels.
Wethouders in de frontlijn: een studie naar de perceptie van en de omgang met persoonlijke bedreigingen
Authors: Marijnissen Diana , Kolthoff Emile
Published: November 2018

Aldermen in the frontline: a study to their perception and behavior in case of personal threats

This contribution reports on a delimited part of a larger, exploratory study, the main question of which was: How do aldermen perceive threats, what are their behavioral intentions and what is the influence of threats on the process and the outcome of decision-making? This question was answered with the help of Q-methodology, semi-structured interviews and case studies. This article discusses the results of the Q-methodology and the semi-structured interviews. The case studies will be reported separately later on. Through the Q-methodology three patterns in perception were found in dealing with threats: ‘combative and decisive’, ‘vulnerable and thoughtful’ and ‘down-to-earth and accepting’. The interviews show that it usually concerns instrumental threats that are deliberately used to influence decision making, which usually take place in the private sphere and vary from verbal aggression to physical violence. Most threats come from individuals, but some come from groups, in some cases there is a relationship with criminals. In the cases reviewed, the consequences in the private sphere are far-reaching, there are indications for the influence on public functioning (from hardening to great caution). There is almost always a report, a fuss in the media can affect the authority of the official.
De geschatte waarde van het preventieprogramma Brandveilig Leven op basis van de contingente waarderingsmethode (CV – Contingent Valuation)
Authors: Bornebroek David , de Wit Ron , van Buiten Marc , Helsloot Ira
Published: November 2018

Willingness-to-pay for a Community Fire Safety program on the basis of the contingent valuation method

The Dutch Regional Fire Services collectively aim at preventing fire, casualties and damage. The main activity is informing citizens about fire risks and the appropriate measures they can take. From both a political and social perspective, it is valuable to know what the return of the Community Fire Safety program is. One way to chart the return of the program is a comparison of the cost of, and society’s willingness-to-pay for, the program. To estimate this willingness-to-pay, this article applies the contingent valuation method to a national representative sample of 806 Dutch citizens. The results show that willingness-to-pay of an average Dutch household is estimated to be between € 25.00 and € 35.67 per year provided the Community Fire Safety program improves the fire safety by 10%. At the national level, this amounts to 200 – 270 million euro annually. This value is seven to ten times more than the approximate costs of the current Community Fire Safety program.
Towards a new paradigm of “coopetitiveness” in emerging countries: Case of the Algerian Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Authors: Baaziz Abdelkader
Published: November 2018

The main aim of this paper is to propose thinking tracks of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems based on a “Quintuple Helix” approach that overcomes the competitive partitions by founding a paradigm of “coopetition” and “coopetitiveness” through the “intelligent specialization” with a strong societal and economic impact. Indeed, the dominant vision in most of emerging countries calls the relationship between Entrepreneurial Ecosystems and their actors, exclusively in terms of competitiveness aspects by reproducing identically the North-American models unlinked to the environmental dissimilarities, such as entrepreneurial culture. However, it is important to enquiring about the spatiotemporal adaptability of this model in the emerging countries contexts, particularly through its uninhibited relationship to the concepts of individual success and failure as well as the ecosystems running based mainly on private financing from business angels, crowdfunding and venture capital investors. While the creation of a startup is administratively facilitated, the uncertainties of the environment put its sustainability in a severe test. The causes are numerous, we cite among others, the difficulty of these startups to fit into a multidisciplinary working mode, hence the necessity to integrate them in the value chain of an ecosystem where they answer efficiently to mutualized and specific RD needs. That's why we propose to identify the main barriers to open innovation as well as the catalysts enabling the creation of the integrative entrepreneurial ecosystems. By borrowing the paradigm of the city, we highlight the “urbanized” ecosystem made up of “useful” and “specialized” blocks, integrated in the value chain of this ecosystem. We will show the viability of the proposed tracks through many cases of economic, societal and academic actions undertaken in Algeria in order to setting up a favorable environment of integrative entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Features of Modern Lithuanian Society’s Legal Identity Development: from Closed to Holed Society
Authors: Šlapkauskas Vytautas
Published: November 2018

During the last three decades, few essential transformations of Lithuanian society took
place – from a closed (according to the terminology of H. Bergman and K. Popper)
soviet society during a short period of open society functioning it evolved into a holed
(according to P. Aleksandravičius) society. The Republic of Lithuania becoming
the rule of law and creation of liberal democracy was a favourable context of the transformations
mentioned. These transformations were ensured not only by establishment
of free market economy but also by corresponding legislation and implementation
of legal norms.
The article analyses inter-directional methodological possibilities to reveal a legal identity
of Lithuanian society. Creation of such possibilities is based on three ideas of Western
civilisation:
1. The idea of compliance with the rules of common or social (now – public) behaviour.
2. The idea of legitimate powers of sovereign to create common (social or public) behaviour
rules and to organize and control their implementation. It evolved into the idea
of the rule of law.
3. The idea of natural rights and freedom. It evolved into the protection of human rights
and freedom.
Based on these ideas and analysis of peculiarities of the process of the Republic of Lithuania
becoming the rule of law, there are justified five stages of Lithuanian society’s legal
identity development.
The Nature and Character of the Psychological Crisis in the Aspect of Police Activities
Authors: Stelmach Jarosław
Published: November 2018

The text is devoted to the subject of an emergency, or crisis, situation in a psychological
context. There are described the concepts of stress, stressful situation, crisis and crisis situation.
By discussing in detail the areas of impact of strong emotions on people, the author
tries to expose tools and recommended ways of reacting to such situations through
police actions.
The Consequences of the Iraq War – Lesson Learned?
Authors: Bolemanová Kristína , Kazanský Rastislav
Published: November 2018

In his first address to the United Nations in September 2017, the American President
Donald Trump blamed North Korea and Iran for developing missiles and nuclear
weapons program, suppressing human rights and sponsoring terrorism. He also called
Iran a “rogue state” what relived the memories from 2003, when President Bush used
similar term of “axis of evil” to describe the regime of Saddam Hussein. Soon after,
the US intervened to Iraq to launch a war against terrorism and the Hussein´s undemocratic
regime.
This article seeks to analyse what impact had the Iraq war on the stability and security
of the country and its region. The war in Iraq also teaches us a lesson of how dangerous
and counterproductive it can be, when a world superpower labels other country a “rogue
state” and decides to fight alleged threats by using military power. If the US President fulfils
his promise of “destroying North Korea” if under threat and launching action against
its government, it could result in a very similar situation as in Iraq. A creation of another
failed state would not only bring more instability but also open new military threats
for the US as well as the world economy.
Ensino de Probabilidade e Estatística e Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação: um cenário das produções brasileiras para os anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Budek Dias Cristiane De Fatima , Dos Santos Junior Guataçara
Published: November 2018

Este artigo traz um panorama das pesquisas realizadas no cenário brasileiro que têm como foco o ensino de Probabilidade e Estatística nos anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental aliado às Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação (TIC). Com o objetivo de verificar as discussões e abordagens priorizadas nas pesquisas brasileiras, analisaram-se as produções disponibilizadas nas páginas dos programas de Mestrado (Acadêmico e Profissional) e Doutorado na área de Ensino, conforme tabela da CAPES dos cursos recomendados e reconhecidos.  Para atender à proposta do presente artigo, realizou-se uma pesquisa exploratória, analisando-se de forma interpretativa as produções encontradas (2004-2016). Foram elencadas quatro categorias norteadoras: software utilizado nas atividades desenvolvidas; conceitos e conhecimentos estimulados; enfoques didáticos e metodológicos no uso das ferramentas; e perspectivas para a formação continuada de professores dos anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental. Os resultados indicam que as tecnologias podem auxiliar o processo de ensino e aprendizagem dos conceitos referentes à Estatística, permitindo que a manipulação dos dados e os cálculos sejam facilitados. Entretanto, apontam, também para a necessidade de um maior número de pesquisas que abordem a temática, principalmente no que concerne à formação de professores.
KRIVIČNOPRAVNA ZAŠTITA BEZBEDNOSTI RAČUNARSKIH PODATAKA
Authors: Pavlović Mirjana , Tošić Danijela
Published: November 2018

Kompjuter je jedna od najznačajnijih tekovina tehnološkog razvoja na kraju 20. veka. Ne postoji oblast ljudskog delovanja u kojoj računari nisu našli svoju primenu. Ali, pored prednosti koje računar nosi sa sobom, ubrzo je postao i sredstvo zloupotrebe. Tako nastaje računarski kriminalitet kao poseban i specifičan oblik kriminaliteta.  Postoji više načina zaštite bezbednosti računarskih podataka. U radu autori prikazuju jedan od vidova zaštite bezbednosti računarskih podataka. U pitanju je krivičnopravna zaštita, koja predstavlja deo kaznenopravne zaštite. Autori analiziraju zakonska rešenja i primenu tih rešenja u praksi.
ACQUISITION OF BASIC PUBLIC SPEAKING SKILLS
Authors: Novaković Nataša , Teodosijević Boris
Published: November 2018

With this texst we show that the acquisition of oratorical skills means not only mastering certain techniques of oratory, or public speaking, but that this is largely primarily related with a kind of mental preparation of speakers themselves, or in which way will future speakers access oratory as an art form or a skill, how will they experience oratory in their own understanding of this beautiful but demanding craft, craft that rewards us with different and great achievements in communication with our environment. Of course, provided that they are well prepared to master the art of public speaking. This preparation involves understanding and exploring the experiences of other well-known speakers, so that we get to know their own way to a magnificent oratory. Than it is necessary to set a clear goal to ourselves of what we want to achieve by studying these skills. Of course, our personal opinion, feeling and consciousness of public speaking must be positive and always strive for success. And above all, it is important to take every opportunity to exercise our public appearances and public speaking because exercise makes perfect.
ОДНОС РУСИЈЕ И ЗЕМAЉА ЗНД – ПОЛИТИЧКИ И ЕКОНОМСКИ АСПЕКТ
Authors: Janić Lazar
Published: November 2018

Распад СССР-а 1991. године довео је до формирања 15 самосталних држава, које су до тог периода функционисале као републике у саставу СССР-а. Три прибалтичке државе, Литванија, Естонија и Летонија су се одмах укључиле у ЕУ и НАТО, а остале државе су углавном ушле у састав заједнице независних држава (ЗНД) као сталне чланице, или у неком другом облику лабилнијег заједништва. Русија као најјача држава региона остварила је најразноврсније облике заједништва и повезивања са овим државама, на плану регионалних интеграција, економских односа и сарадње на војнотехничко - стратешком пољу. Русија са ЗНД у даљем процесу интеграција у свету успоставља одговарајуће политичке, економске и друге односе са државама Европе, Азије, САД, Латинске Америке. Сви ови фактори веома позитивно утичу на целокупан друштвено - економски развој читавог региона , који тиме постаје важан субјект у процесу глобализације. Рад разматра политички и економски аспекто односа Русије и земаља ЗНД.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS NECESSARY FOR THE BUSINESS PERFORMANCE QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN SMALL AND MEDIUM COMPANIES
Authors: Valjevac Boris , Sorak Ljiljana , Sorak Miloš
Published: November 2018

This study shows model of strategic planning process development, which consists of the vision, mission and strategic goals, for the purpose of business performance quality improvement in small and medium enterprises. Conditions for establishing measurable business goals are formed by defining strategic plan, which is the precondition for monitoring the quality of company’s business performance. The first phase of this study referred to explaining the term and defining strategic management process.  The second phase shows the process of making strategic plan for a selected company.
PRISONER DILEMMA BETWEEN POLICY MAKERS: EVIDENCE FROM TURKEY
Authors: Tetik Metin , Ceylan Reşat
Published: November 2018

In this study, we present about the interaction between monetary and fiscal policy makers in the Turkish economy since the 2001 crisis. This interaction is evaluated by a theoretical perspective of the game. The data show that there is a conflict between the monetary and fiscal policy makers in the Turkish economy, especially in some periods. The coordination problem created by this conflict is affecting social welfare negatively. Therefore, we argue that during these periods, there is a state of "Prisoners' Dilemma" among policy makers.
PRIMARNI POREMEĆAJI IMUNITETA
Authors: Erić Želimir , Predojević Samardžić Jelica
Published: November 2018

Primarni poremećaji imuniteta (primarne imunodeficijencije) spadaju ugrupu rijetkih oboljenja. Postoji više pokušaja da se na sveobuhvatan način sagleda dijagnostičkai laboratorijska evaluacija primarnih poremećaja imuniteta i predstavi ljekarimakoji se primarno ne bave imunologijom, a dolaze u kontakt sa ovakvim pacijentima.Evropsko društvo za imunodeficijencije i druge kolege napravili su više dijagnostičkihprotokola za primarne poremećaje imuniteta. Primarni poremećaji imunitetamogu biti prisutni u svim životnim dobima te je evaluacija značajna kako za pedijatretako i za ljekare koji liječe odrasle pacijente.
Integration of proteomics and metabolomics data in a novel cellular knock out model of methylmalonic acidemia
Authors: Costanzo Michele , Caterino Marianna , Cevenini Armando , Jung Vincent , Guerrera Ida C , Ruoppolo Margherita
Published: November 2018

Background. Methylmalonic acidemia is a rare inborn error of metabolism caused by mutations in methylmalonyl−CoA mutase (MUT) gene. As intermediate of propionate metabolism, MUT converts methylmalonyl−CoA into succinyl−CoA, which enters the Krebs cycle. Downstream MUT deficiency, methylmalonic acid accumulates in body fluids as biomarker of disease. The long-term complications of the disease can include cognitive and neurological impairment, chronic kidney disease, liver failure, and death.

Methods. In order to create a valid cellular model to study the disease, MUT gene was knocked out (KO) in HEK293 cell line by using CRISPR-CAS9 technology. Methylmalonic acid was measured in MUT-KO and wild type (WT) cells by multiple reaction monitoring. A quantitative proteomics analysis was carried out using a label-free mass spectrometry-based approach. Data were processed using MaxQuant software. Moreover, a targeted metabolomics analysis was performed in order to measure an entire panel of amino acids and acylcarnitines.

Results. Methylmalonic acid resulted increased in KO cells if compared with WT ones. The proteomic dataset showed a number of 69 differentially expressed proteins, of which 39 down-regulated and 30 up-regulated in the MUT-KO condition. Gene Ontology analysis revealed an enrichment in energy and lipid metabolism categories. The variations in the metabolomic profile are indicative of alterations in fatty acid oxidation processes and lipid metabolism.
Tuned polymerization of the transcription factor Yan limits off-DNA sequestration to confer context-specific repression
Authors: Hope C Matthew , Webber Jemma L , Tokamov Sherzod A , Rebay Ilaria
Published: November 2018

During development, transcriptional complexes at enhancers regulate gene expression in complex spatiotemporal patterns. To achieve robust expression without spurious activation, the affinity and specificity of transcription factor–DNA interactions must be precisely balanced. Protein–protein interactions among transcription factors are also critical, yet how their affinities impact enhancer output is not understood. The Drosophila transcription factor Yan provides a well-suited model to address this, as its function depends on the coordinated activities of two independent and essential domains: the DNA-binding ETS domain and the self-associating SAM domain. To explore how protein–protein affinity influences Yan function, we engineered mutants that increase SAM affinity over four orders of magnitude. This produced a dramatic subcellular redistribution of Yan into punctate structures, reduced repressive output and compromised survival. Cell-type specification and genetic interaction defects suggest distinct requirements for polymerization in different regulatory decisions. We conclude that tuned protein–protein interactions enable the dynamic spectrum of complexes that are required for proper regulation.
Model-based in silico analysis of the PI3K/Akt pathway: the elucidation of cross-talk between diabetes and breast cancer
Authors: Rehman Sammia , Obaid Ayesha , Naz Anam , Ali Amjad , Kanwal Shahzina , Ahmad Jamil
Published: November 2018

Background

A positive association between diabetes and breast cancer has been identified by various epidemiological and clinical studies. However, the possible molecular interactions between the two heterogeneous diseases have not been fully determined yet. There are several underlying mechanisms which may increase the risk of breast cancer in diabetic patients.

Introduction

In this study, we focused on the role of O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) enzyme in the regulation of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) pathway through activation/deactivation of Akt protein. The efficiency of insulin signaling in adipocytes is reduced as a result of OGT overexpression which further attenuates Akt signaling; as a result, the efficiency of insulin signaling is reduced by downregulation of insulin-responsive genes. On the other hand, increased expression of OGT results in Akt activation in breast cancer cells, leading to enhanced cell proliferation and inhibition of the apoptosis. However, the interplay amongst these signaling pathways is still under investigation.

Methods

In this study, we used Petri nets (PNs) to model and investigate the role of PI3K and OGT pathways, acting as key players in crosstalk between diabetes and breast cancer, resulting in progression of these chronic diseases. Moreover, in silico perturbation experiments were applied on the model to analyze the effects of anti-cancer agents (shRNA and BZX) and anti-diabetic drug (Metformin) on the system.

Results

Our PN model reflects the alterations in protein expression and behavior and the correlation between breast cancer and diabetes. The analysis proposed two combination therapies to combat breast cancer progression in diabetic patients including combination of OGTmRNA silencing and OGT inhibitor (BZX) as first combination and BZX and Metformin as the second.

Conclusion

The PN model verified that alterations in O-GlcNAc signaling affect both insulin resistance and breast cancer. Moreover, the combination therapy for breast cancer patients consisting of anti-diabetic drugs such as Metformin along with OGT inhibitors, for example BZX, can produce better treatment regimens.
Functional and solution structure studies of amino sugar deacetylase and deaminase enzymes from Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Davies James S. , Coombes David , Horne Christopher R. , Pearce F. Grant , Friemann Rosmarie , North Rachel A. , Dobson Renwick C. J.
Published: November 2018

N‐Acetylglucosamine‐6‐phosphate deacetylase (NagA) and glucosamine‐6‐phosphate deaminase (NagB) are branch point enzymes that direct amino sugars into different pathways. For Staphylococcus aureus NagA, analytical ultracentrifugation and small‐angle X‐ray scattering data demonstrate that it is an asymmetric dimer in solution. Initial rate experiments show hysteresis, which may be related to pathway regulation, and kinetic parameters similar to other bacterial isozymes. The enzyme binds two Zn2+ ions and is not substrate inhibited, unlike the Escherichia coli isozyme. S. aureus NagB adopts a novel dimeric structure in solution and shows kinetic parameters comparable to other Gram‐positive isozymes. In summary, these functional data and solution structures are of use for understanding amino sugar metabolism in S. aureus, and will inform the design of inhibitory molecules.
Steeper dose gradients resulting from reduced source to target distance—a planning system independent study
Authors: Bratengeier Klaus , Holubyev Kostyantyn , Wegener Sonja
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To quantify the contribution of penumbra in the improvement of healthy tissue sparing at reduced source‐to‐axis distance (SAD) for simple spherical target and different prescription isodoses (PI).

Method

A TPS‐independent method was used to estimate three‐dimensional (3D) dose distribution for stereotactic treatment of spherical targets of 0.5 cm radius based on single beam two‐dimensional (2D) film dosimetry measurements. 1 cm target constitutes the worst case for the conformation with standard Multi‐Leaf Collimator (MLC) with 0.5 cm leaf width. The measured 2D transverse dose cross‐sections and the profiles in leaf and jaw directions were used to calculate radial dose distribution from isotropic beam arrangement, for both quadratic and circular beam openings, respectively. The results were compared for standard (100 cm) and reduced SAD 70 and 55 cm for different PI.

Results

For practical reduction of SAD using quadratic openings, the improvement of healthy tissue sparing (HTS) at distances up to 3 times the PTV radius was at least 6%–12%; gradient indices (GI) were reduced by 3–39% for PI between 40% and 90%. Except for PI of 80% and 90%, quadratic apertures at SAD 70 cm improved the HTS by up to 20% compared to circular openings at 100 cm or were at least equivalent; GI were 3%–33% lower for reduced SAD in the PI range 40%–70%. For PI = 80% and 90% the results depend on the circular collimator model.

Conclusion

Stereotactic treatments of spherical targets delivered at reduced SAD of 70 or 55 cm using MLC spare healthy tissue around the target at least as good as treatments at SAD 100 cm using circular collimators. The steeper beam penumbra at reduced SAD seems to be as important as perfect target conformity. The authors argue therefore that the beam penumbra width should be addressed in the stereotactic studies.
Deep brain stimulation: potential for neuroprotection
Authors: McKinnon Chris , Gros Priti , Lee Darrin J. , Hamani Clement , Lozano Andres M. , Kalia Lorraine V. , Kalia Suneil K.
Published: November 2018

Over the last two decades there has been an exponential rise in the number of patients receiving deep brain stimulation (DBS) to manage debilitating neurological symptoms in conditions such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and dystonia. Novel applications of DBS continue to emerge including treatment of various psychiatric conditions (e.g. obsessive‐compulsive disorder, major depression) and cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Despite widening therapeutic applications, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying DBS remains limited. In addition to modulation of local and network‐wide neuronal activity, growing evidence suggests that DBS may also have important neuroprotective effects in the brain by limiting synaptic dysfunction and neuronal loss in neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we consider evidence from preclinical and clinical studies of DBS in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy that suggest chronic stimulation has the potential to mitigate neuronal loss and disease progression.
Autocatalytic Metallization of Fabrics Using Si Ink, for Biosensors, Batteries and Energy Harvesting
Authors: Grell Max , Dincer Can , Le Thao , Lauri Alberto , Nunez Bajo Estefania , Kasimatis Michael , Barandun Giandrin , Maier Stefan A. , Cass Anthony E. G. , Güder Firat
Published: November 2018

Commercially available metal inks are mainly designed for planar substrates (for example, polyethylene terephthalate foils or ceramics), and they contain hydrophobic polymer binders that fill the pores in fabrics when printed, thus resulting in hydrophobic electrodes. Here, a low‐cost binder‐free method for the metallization of woven and nonwoven fabrics is presented that preserves the 3D structure and hydrophilicity of the substrate. Metals such as Au, Ag, and Pt are grown autocatalytically, using metal salts, inside the fibrous network of fabrics at room temperature in a two‐step process, with a water‐based silicon particle ink acting as precursor. Using this method, (patterned) metallized fabrics are being enabled to be produced with low electrical resistance (less than 3.5 Ω sq−1). In addition to fabrics, the method is also compatible with other 3D hydrophilic substrates such as nitrocellulose membranes. The versatility of this method is demonstrated by producing coil antennas for wireless energy harvesting, Ag–Zn batteries for energy storage, electrochemical biosensors for the detection of DNA/proteins, and as a substrate for optical sensing by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy. In the future, this method of metallization may pave the way for new classes of high‐performance devices using low‐cost fabrics.
Record‐Low‐Threshold Lasers Based on Atomically Smooth Triangular Nanoplatelet Perovskite
Authors: Li Guohui , Che Tao , Ji Xingqi , Liu Shaoding , Hao Yuying , Cui Yanxia , Liu Shengzhong
Published: November 2018

Single‐crystalline perovskites are ideal candidates for lasing and other optoelectronic applications. Although significant efforts have been made to grow both bulk single‐crystalline perovskites in liquid solution, their dimensions are still too large to make nanoscale whispering‐gallery‐mode (WGM) resonator based lasers that possess high quality (Q) factor and small volume. Besides, most reported perovskite resonators do not possess atomically smooth surfaces and facets, which limits the Q and thereby increases the lasing threshold. Here, atomically smooth triangular PbI2 templates are fabricated on a mica substrate by the vapor phase deposition method and are converted to atomically smooth perovskites which have regular and unwrinkled facets with average surface roughness less than 2 nm. By using a CH3NH3PbI3 nanoplatelet with a side length of 27 µm and thickness of 80 nm, room temperature WGM lasing with a Q up to 2600 is demonstrated, the highest reported for hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite nanoplatelets. In addition, the volume of the WGM mode is reduced significantly in comparison with the prior reports. The realized high‐quality triangular CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite nanoplatelets with high Q factor and small volume are expected to perform as ideal cavities for long pulse durations lasers and would find potential applications in integrated optoelectronic devices.
Wood‐Derived Hierarchically Porous Electrodes for High‐Performance All‐Solid‐State Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Yameng , Lin Xiangjun , Liu Ting , Chen Heng , Chen Shuai , Jiang Zhongjie , Liu Jiang , Huang Jianlin , Liu Meilin
Published: November 2018

The rapid development of many emerging technologies (e.g., electric vehicles and smart grids) requires advanced energy storage and conversion systems that have higher energy and power density, longer operational life, and better safety. A low‐cost, green, and sustainable process for fabrication of all‐solid‐state asymmetric supercapacitors (ASC) composed of a hierarchically porous carbonized wood (CW) anode, a cellulose paper separator, and a Co(OH)2@CW cathode is reported here. The hierarchically porous wood‐derived electrode exhibits a high areal capacitance of 3.723 F cm−2 (with an areal loading Co(OH)2 of 5.7 mg cm−2) at a current density 1.0 mA cm−2, and 1.568 F cm−2 at a current density of 30 mA cm−2. Moreover, the all‐solid‐state ASC exhibits outstanding energy density of 0.69 mWh cm−2 (10.87 Wh kg−1) at power density of 1.126 W cm−2 (17.75 W kg−1) while maintaining a capacitance retention of 85% after 10 000 continuous charge–discharge cycles. The high energy/power‐densities are attributed to the unique architecture of the electrodes derived from natural wood, which allow full exposure of active electrode materials, efficient current collection, and fast ion transport. Further, the materials are renewable, environmentally friendly, and biodegradable.