bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing an Optimal Investment Portfolio for the Bank of Lithuania
Authors: Galinienė Birutė , Stravinskytė Justina
Published: April 2016

The main goal of this article is to illustrate the strategy, devised to improve the effectiveness of utilizing the financial assets, or in this case, the official international reserves, belonging to the Bank of Lithuania. In Lithuania, the value of financial assets as a percentage of total state assets has doubled in the span of 10 years. Moreover, a strong correlation between the real GDP growth and the Bank of Lithuania’s financial assets/profitability implies that the effectiveness of financial assets management has a nationally wide impact. Unfortunately, the Bank’s profit/invested value indicator has reached a record low in 2012–2013, which resulted in the whole bank’s profit being absorbed into the state’s budget (as opposed to 70 % of it). Such signs meant that the previous investment strategy has become ineffective and needed changes.To highlight the necessary changes, the authors conduct a practical research and construct the optimal investment portfolio, according to the goals and variables given by the guidelines, proposed by Bank of Lithuania. The size of the portfolio is 4,14 bn euros, and the maximum loss per year (VaR) allowed is -100 M euro/year, as stated by the Bank of Lithuania’s risk budget limit. The authors also focus on the issue of increased currency risk after investing in volatile share indices and whether hedging against it with Forex spot transactions is beneficial.The result of the research is an optimal portfolio, consisting of 9,85 percent of risk-free assets and 90,15 percent of risky assets. Hedging against currency risk in this case is an ultimately beneficial course of action, yielding an increase of annual returns by 0,3 percent, which translates to +12,3 mln euros. Finally, the portfolio is flexible and simple to reshape into a less risky variant, if the institution predicts the dangers of possible future economic downfalls.This research was further used in a broader paper whose goal was to analyse and assess the effectiveness of currently employed assets’ management strategies in Lithuania.
Permanence and existence of periodic solution of a discrete periodic Lotka–Volterra competition system with feedback control and time delays
Authors: Li Wenbin , Du Zengji , Xu Dongcheng
Published: April 2016

In this paper, we consider a discrete predator–prey system with feedback and time delays. By applying the theory of difference inequality, as well as analysis technique, sufficient conditions are obtained for the permanence of the system. And by applying Mawhin's coincidence degree theory, we obtain the existence of the positive periodic solutions.
Convergence analysis of estimated parameters for parametric nonlinear strict feedback system with unknown control direction
Authors: Li Jun Min Min , He Chao
Published: April 2016

In this paper, the adaptive control and parameters identification problems are investigated for a class of linearly parametric strict feedback system with unknown control direction. Firstly, by using backstepping design procedure, the adaptive tracking control scheme combined with Nussbaum gain function is proposed. In the controller, the adaptive law of estimated parameters is derived from Lyapunov stability theorem and Nussbaum-type function. All the signals in closed-loop system are proved to be bounded. Secondly, the identification of unknown parameters in the strict feedback system with unknown control direction is studied. By constructing a novel Lyapunov function, a sufficient condition (PE condition), which can guarantee that the parameters estimation converge to the actual values of parameters, is obtained for the first time. Also, it is more simplified than the existing results on PE. Under the PE condition proposed here, it is shown that the parameters estimation errors are convergent to zero asymptotically by using Nussbaum function technique and Barbalat's lemma. Finally, illustrated examples are given to demonstrate the main results.
Computational modeling of the bacterial self-organization in a rounded container: The effect of dimensionality
Authors: Baronas Romas , Ledas Žilvinas , Šimkus Remigijus
Published: April 2016

A bacterial self-organization in a rounded container as detected by bioluminescence imaging is mathematically modeled by applying the the Keller–Segel approach with logistic growth. The pattern formation in a colony of luminous Escherichia coli is numerically simulated by the nonlinear reaction-advection-diffusion equations. In this work, the pattern formation is studied in 3D and the results are compared with previous and new 2D and 1D simulations. The numerical simulation at transition conditions was carried out using the finite difference technique. The simulation results showed that the developed 3D model captures fairly well the sophisticated patterns observed in the experiments. Since the numerical simulation based on the 3D model is very time-consuming, the reduction of spatial dimension of the model for simulating 1D spatiotemporal patterns is discussed. Due to the accumulation of luminous cells near the top three-phase contact line the experimental patterns of the bioluminescence can be qualitatively described by 1D and 2D models by adjusting values of the diffusion coefficient and/or chemotactic sensitivity.
Compound method of time series classification
Authors: Korus Łukasz , Piórek Michał
Published: April 2016

Many real phenomenona preserves the properties of chaotic dynamics. However, unambiguous determination of belonging to a group of chaotic systems is difficult and complex problem. The main purpose of this paper is to present compound method of time series classification which is basically directed to the detection of chaotic behaviors. The method has been designed for differentiation of three types of time series: chaotic, periodic and random. Our approach assumes, that more reliable information about the dynamics of the system will provide the compilation of several methods, than any individual. This paper focuses on choosing a good set of methods and analysis of their results. In our investigation, we used the following methods and indicators: time delay embedding, mutual information, saturation of system invariants, the largest Lyapunov exponent and Hurst exponent. We checked the validity of the methods applying them to three kinds of basic systems which generate chaotic, periodic and random time series. As a summary of this paper, all selected methods and indicators computed for generated times series have been summarized in the table, which gives the authors a possibility to conclude about type of observed behavior.
Self-approximation of periodic Hurwitz zeta-functions
Authors: Karikovas Erikas
Published: April 2016

Let ζ(s,ω;A) be the periodic Hurwitz zeta-function. We look for real numbers α and β for which there exist "many" real numbers τ such that the shifts ζ(s+iατ,ω;A) and ζ(s+iβτ,ω;A) are "near" each other.
Modelling of water droplets heat and mass transfer in the course of phase transitions. I. Phase transitions cycle peculiarities and iterative scheme of numerical research control and optimization
Authors: Miliauskas Gintautas , Adomavičius Arvydas , Maziukienė Monika
Published: April 2016

The peculiarities of the widely applied in practice sprayed water droplets phase transition cycle are discussed in this article. Theoretical fundamentals of droplets heat and mass transfer modelling by combined analytical-numerical method and numerical simulation peculiarities are outlined. Water droplet phase transitions were modelled on the energy flow balance condition basis. The control mechanism of iterative scheme used to determine the droplet surface temperature was highlighted. The optimal finite number of members in the infinite integral equation set for droplet temperature field and its gradient parameter calculation was defined by the numerical experiment.
Grožio patrauklumas. Estetika ir erosas Algio Mickūno filosofijoje
Authors: Jonkus Dalius
Published: April 2016

Straipsnyje analizuojama, kaip Mickūno filosofija atskleidžia estetikos ir eroso sąryšį. Analizės tikslas – parodyti, kad estetika ir erosas reikalauja ne reprezentacijos, bet prezentacijos ir kodėl abi šios plotmės yra susijusios su tiesiogine pasaulio išraiškų patirtimi. Fenomenologinė estetikos ir eroso analizė atskleidžia paties pasaulio grožį ir erotinį patrauklumą. Mickūnas teigia, kad estetinė-erotinė nuostata yra atvirumas paties pasaulio nuotaikoms, ritmams ir buvimo stiliams. Kita vertus, jis neigia estetinės ir erotinės patirties intencionalumą, nes pastarąjį supranta kaip tikslingą nukreiptumą į objektus ir siekį identifikuoti objekto reikšmę. Straipsnyje pateikiami argumentai, kodėl Mickūno bandymas paneigti erotinės ir estetinės patirties intencionalumą yra paremtas siaurąja, o ne plačiąja intencionalumo samprata.
Apie judėjimą
Authors: Berkeley George
Published: April 2016

Versta iš: George Berkeley. De Motu. In: The Works of George Berkeley, vol. 1 of 4.The Project Gutenberg, ebook [39746]. May 20, 2012, p. 623–637[žiūrėta 2015 m. sausio 10 d.]. http://www.gutenberg.org/files/39746/39746-pdf.pdf?session_id=4bc9cfa72ed4454c0940975edf5503b59871e996Iš lotynų kalbos vertė Živilė PabijutaitėVertimo mokslinis redaktorius Mindaugas Strockis
Congenital Rubella Syndrome: A Case Report on Changes in Viral Load and Rubella Antibody Titers
Authors: Nagasawa Koo , Ishiwada Naruhiko , Ogura Atsushi , Ogawa Tomoko , Takeuchi Noriko , Hishiki Haruka , Shimojo Naoki
Published: April 2016

To our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction to assess changes in viral load in a patient with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Rubella-specific antibody titers were also determined. The patient was a male neonate born to a primipara with rubella infection at 10 weeks of gestation. He had no symptoms at birth, but rubella virus was detected in his pharynx, blood, and urine. His mental and physical development was normal for 1 year; however, he was diagnosed with deafness at 13 months of age. Thus, the patient was diagnosed with CRS. Rubella infection in the pharynx was almost constant until 5 months of age; however, it increased dramatically at 6 months of age. No infection was detected at 13 months. Rubella-specific immunoglobulin M titer was consistently low until 9 months of age and then decreased gradually until it became negative at 20 months of age. Rubella-specific immunoglobulin G titer was high at birth. However, it decreased at 3 months and increased again at 4 months. This titer peaked at ∼9 months and then decreased again at 13 months. This case shows that the period after the decline in maternal antibody titers, not the neonatal period, may be the most contagious period in patients with CRS.
Friability and its relationship with clay and organic carbon in soils cultivated with sugar cane
Authors: Avila P. Edgar Alvaro , Leiva Fabio Rodrigo , Madriñán M. Raúl
Published: April 2016

Friability is a property related to the brittle fracture of soil aggregates and, therefore, is considered a key to the physical quality of soils and the consumption of energy during farming. This paper contains the preliminary results of research that aimed to quantitatively determine the friability index (FI) and its relationship with other soil properties; in particular, this research focused on the relationship between the FI and the clay content and organic carbon percentage (OC) of soils with a different dominance in the fine fraction (1:1 and 2:1 clay) that were cultivated with sugar cane in the southwest region of Colombia. The FI was determined by the compressive strength method using aggregates with diameters between 9.5 and 19.0 mm taken from the surface horizon, which were air air-dried and then dried at a low-temperature in an oven. The clay type content and OC content were determined in these samples. A 98.6% of the studied samples had FI values between 0.24 and 0.80, thus, classifying them as friable (especially those having a 1:1 type clay dominance) and very friable (especially those having a 2:1 type clay dominance), suggesting a structural condition of low to moderate energy requirements for farming, low greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and a reduced risk of damage on the physical quality if a suitable soil moisture content exists during the tilling. This study found correlations between the texture, OC, and FI of the soils, indicating that the two first properties affected the friability. However, this effect depended on the clay dominance type.
Mechatronics methodology: 15 years of experience Metodología mecatrónica: 15 años de experiencia
Authors: Gorrostieta Efren , Rodriguez Resendiz Juvenal , Vargas Soto Emilio , Zuñiga Aviles Luis Adrian , Tovar Arriaga Saul
Published: April 2016

This article presents a methodology to teach students to develop mechatronic projects. It was taught in higher education schools, in different universities in Mexico, in courses such as: Robotics, Control Systems, Mechatronic Systems, Artificial Intelligence, etc. The intention of this methodology is not only to achieve the integration of different subjects but also to accomplish synergy between them so that the final result may be the best possible in quality, time and robustness. Since its introduction into the educational area, this methodology was evaluated and modified for approximately five years, were substantial characteristics were adopted. For the next ten years, only minor alterations were carried out. Fifteen years of experience have proven that the methodology is useful not only for training but also for real projects. In this article, we first explain the methodology and its main characteristics, as well as a brief history of its teaching in different educational programs. Then, we present two cases were the methodology was successfully applied. The first project consisted in the design, construction and evaluation of a mobile robotic manipulator which aims to be used as an explosives ordnance device. In the second case, we document the results of a project assignment for robotics tasks carried out by students which were formerly taught with the methodology.
Reverse logistics in plastics subsector: main facilitators and barriers
Authors: Pena-Montoya Claudia Cecilia , Osorio-Gomez Juan Carlos , Vidal-Holguin Carlos Julio , Torres-Lozada Patricia , Marmolejo-Rebellon Luis Fernando
Published: April 2016

Industrial solid waste (ISW) is increasing in both quantity and complexity and it is a priority to establish strategies to manage it. Reverse Logistics (RL) is a strategy that enables material recovery and reuse avoiding the damage that ISW may cause; also RL organizes solid waste management activities and supports other activities such as ISW trading. Most of the research linking ISW and RL in developed countries is related to the electronics subsector because of the negative effects on the environment; however, research oriented towards plastics subsector waste is lower. This is the case in Colombia where the plastics subsector is composed mainly by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) facing diverse constraints for their operation. Main facilitators and barriers that face SMEs in the Colombian plastics subsector to undertake RL programs were identified. An exploratory study was carried out in which business managers assessed the facilitators and barriers identified in the literature. The results showed that the availability of skilled people to perform RL activities is one of the most important internal facilitators and the lack of secondary markets for recovered materials is among the external barriers. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge in the field that is still maturing in Colombia.
A Review of Warm Mix Asphalt Technology: Technical, Eco-nomical and Enviromental Aspects
Authors: Rondón Hugo Alexander , Hernández Jesús Alfredo , Reyes Fredy Alberto
Published: April 2016

In general terms, warm mix asphalt (WMA) technology presents a wide potential for successful use in road works construction projects. However, concerns remain regarding the durability and behavior of WMA mixtures in the long term, which need to be addressed. This review focuses on the technical, economic and environmental advantages and disadvantages. The review concludes that the main advantage, at the moment, of this technology concerns the environment. At the end of this work, the authors include certain recommendations for future works to continue strengthening the development of WMA technology.      
New Heuristic Algorithm for Dynamic Traffic in WDM Optical Networks
Authors: Rodríguez Garcia Arturo Benito , Ramirez Lopez Leonardo , Travieso Torres Juan Carlos
Published: April 2016

The results and comparison of the simulation of a new heuristic algorithm called Snake One are presented. The comparison is made with three heuristic algorithms, Genetic Algorithms, Simulated Annealing, and Tabu Search, using blocking probability and network utilization as standard indicators. The simulation was made on the WDM NSFNET under dynamic traffic conditions. The results show a substantial decrease of blocking, but this causes a relative growth of network utilization. There are also load intervals at which its performance improves, decreasing the number of blocked requests.
Contributions of a Social Justice Language Teacher Education Perspective to Professional Development Programs in Colombia
Authors: Sierra Piedrahita Ana Maria
Published: April 2016

In this article, the author discusses the social justice language teacher education perspective and how it can help language teachers to develop a political view of their work and effect change inside and outside their particular school contexts. To do this, she briefly analyzes various professional development programs for teachers of English in public schools in one city in Colombia to determine how these have or have not contributed to the development of a political perspective in teachers. Finally, she discusses what the implementation of such perspective requires, provides some examples to illustrate how it may look in practice, and discusses some implications for different stakeholders.
Policies for English Language Teacher Education in Brazil Today: Preliminary Remarks
Authors: Gimenez Telma , Ferreira Aparecida de Jesus , Alves Basso Rosângela Aparecida , Carvalho Cruvinel Roberta
Published: April 2016

In the last decade Brazil has begun to tackle the educational challenges of a developing country with a young population. The scale of such a demand is a result of the social and cultural inequalities that have historically been existent. Recent official policies and programs have addressed this gap by promoting greater opportunities for teacher education, and for the teaching of English as a foreign language. In this paper we discuss four of these programs/policies by highlighting their innovative aspects vis-à-vis traditional practices. We conclude that, despite quantitative advances, much still needs to be done to guarantee qualitative improvements in areas such as the curriculum in order to challenge the continuing influence of predominant ideologies.
Adult EFL Reading Selection: Influence on Literacy
Authors: Basallo Gómez Juan Sebastián
Published: April 2016

This paper is about the impact of systematic reading selection used to promote English as foreign language learning in adult students. A qualitative action research methodology was used to carry out this project. Ten class sessions were designed to provide students an opportunity to select texts according to criteria based upon their language levels and personal/professional interests. The findings align with three categories of influence: motivation, engagement, and contextualization/interpretation of readings. The main objective of this project was to see how the students’ text selection processes, guided by systematically designed criteria and elaborated strategies, influenced learning and acquisition in terms of motivation, perceptions, and opinions towards reading in English.
An Eclectic Professional Development Proposal for English Language Teachers
Authors: Chaves Orlando , Guapacha Maria Eugenia
Published: April 2016

This article reports a mixed-method research project aimed at improving the practices of public sector English teachers in Cali (Colombia) through a professional development program. At the diagnostic stage surveys, documentary analysis, and a focus group yielded the teachers’ profile and professional needs. The action phase measured the program’s impact via surveys, evaluation formats, a focus group, researchers’ journal, and documentary analysis. Findings revealed that an eclectic approach tailored to the participants’ needs and interests and a practice-reflection-theory cycle improved the teachers’ quality.
 
Editorial
Authors: Nieto Cruz María Claudia , Cárdenas Melba Libia
Published: April 2016

As always, we hope our journal reaches a wide range of educators. We also hope the communities of our readers can benefit from the contributions of authors from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, the United States, and Turkey. We acknowledge the rigor of their works and look forward to more manuscripts in the areas they have addressed in their articles as well as in others that are embraced in the mission of our publication.
Design Partnerships Between Community-Engaged Architecture and Academic Education Programs
Authors: Portschy Szabolcs
Published: April 2016

Community approach in architecture — an active involvement of different stakeholders (customers, users) or a wider range of citizens in the planning — building — urban renewal process — has been present for over a half-century. This paper intends to provide a brief summary on the history of community design — university partnerships with an outlook on the Hungarian community design practice and, in particular, the work and teaching methodology of the St. Joseph Studio Collegium, a Hungarian education oriented community design center.
Road Patterns of Housing Estates in Hungary
Authors: Hegyi Pál
Published: April 2016

This paper deals with the road patterns of housing estates in eight Hungarian cities. The investigation was directed to the characteristic of street networks using geographic information system. The different types of housing estates were compared using the following indicators: ratio of T and X junctions, ratio of the dead ends, average distance between nodes, connectivity index, and road density. It is concluded that according to their street network the housing estates have three periods.
Pedestrian’s Level of Service on Tramline Platforms in Budapest
Authors: Kovács Igazvölgyi Zsuzsanna
Published: April 2016

The article aims at presenting the analysis of pedestrian behavior at transport stops, with special focus on tram platforms. The most important characteristics of a platform are length and width. Determining the level of service is also applied in international context on the basis of which the area is measurable. This article aims to show these briefly, and provides a recommendation for domestic application while incorporating the most characteristic features. On the basis of the measurement and micro-simulation, recommendation can be made for the level of service. The method of improving the quality of service is shown through the enlargement of the platform’s effective area.
Thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites based on polyethylene and Mg/Al hydrotalcite
Authors: Jaramillo L.Y. , Posada-Correa J.C. , Pabón-Gelves E. , Ramos-Ramírez E. , Gutiérrez-Ortega N.L.
Published: April 2016

In this work there was studied the effect of nano-Mg/Al hydrotalcite (NHT) as filler on maleic anhydride grafted linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE-g-MA). NHT was synthesized by the coprecipitation method with a ratio of Mg/Al=6 and nanocomposites were prepared using 1, 3 and 5 %wt of filler via melt-blending.

Morphological and structural analysis of NHT were performed and for nanocomposites, tensile tests and thermal properties were measured. Results showed that filler was well dispersed in the LLDPE matrix, mechanical properties were enhanced in most of the cases and thermal stability improvements were achieved in the nanocomposites.
Current Induced G-Factor Shift in Modulation Doped Si Quantum Wells
Authors: Malissa Hans , Jantsch Wolfgang , Schäffler Friedrich , Wilamowski Zbyslaw
Published: April 2016

We report the observation of a particularly simple effect of spin-orbit coupling which allows for efficient manipulation of spins by an electric current in semiconductor nanostructures. Passing an electric current density of j = 2.5 mA/cm through a modulation doped Si quantum well (density of 5 × 1011 cm-2) perpendicular to an in-plane magnetic field, we observe a shift of the spin resonance of the conduction electrons (CESR) by about 0.1 mT. This shift reverses sign when we invert (i) the current direction, (ii) the magnetic field direction and it vanishes for perpendicular magnetic field. We show that this current-induced shift in g-factor, i.e., its dependence on current and carrier density, its temperature dependence and its anisotropy can be consistently and quantitatively explained in terms of the Bychkov-Rashba coefficient determined earlier from the CESR broadening and the g-factor anisotropy [1]. Other sources of magnetic field (e.g. the Oersted effect) are negligible. This effect can be utilized for g-factor tuning, and thus for local spin manipulation: passing a current through some part of a sample may be utilized to bring those electrons into resonance with a microwave field. These spins are thus excited to Rabi oscillations and, using current pulses of suitable duration, π rotations (or by any other angle) can be achieved.
Novel approach to simulation of group-III nitrides growth by MOVPE
Authors: Karpov S. Yu. , Prokofyev V. G. , Yakovlev E. V. , Talalaev R. A. , Makarov Yu. N.
Published: April 2016

Recent studies revealed specific features of chemical processes occurring on the surface of growing group-III nitrides – extremely low sticking probability of molecular nitrogen, low sticking coefficient and incomplete decomposition of ammonia frequently used as the nitrogen precursor. These features (kinetic by nature) result in the growth process going on under conditions remarkably deviated from the gas-solid heterogeneous equilibrium. In this paper we propose a novel approach to modeling of group-III nitride growth by MOVPE taking into account these features. In the model the sticking/evaporation coefficients of N2 and NH3 extracted from independent experiments are used allowing adequate description of the kinetic effects. The model is applied to analysis of growth of binary (GaN) and ternary (InGaN) compounds in a horizontal tube reactor. The growth rate and the solid phase composition are predicted theoretically and compared with available experimental data. The modeling results reveal lower ammonia decomposition ratio on the surface of the crystal as compared to thermodynamic expectations. The developed model can be used for optimization of growth process conditions.
Types of hope and action styles of adolescents
Authors: Myślińska Aleksandra , Śliwak Jacek , Partyka Józef
Published: April 2016

The problem discussed in this article concerns the relationship between hope and action styles in adolescents. An action style is a way in which man perceives and responds to the outside world, and it may be aimed at securing oneself or interacting with the surroundings. The main aim of this analysis was to find out if, and to what degree, the level of hope is connected with action styles. The following hypotheses are proposed: H – 1. There is a relationship between hope and an action style. H- 2. Persons with different types of hope are characterised by different styles of action. H – 3. Persons with a high level of hope have a cooperation­‑oriented style. H – 4. Persons with a low level of hope are often characterised by a style aimed at protecting themselves. 149 persons aged 17 – 18 participated in the study. The following methods were used: the Basic Hope Inventory (BHI-12) – compiled by Trzebiński and M. Zięba, the Hope for Success Questionnaire (KNS) – adaptation of C. R. Snyder’s questionnaire made by M. Łaguna, J. Trzebiński and M. Zięba, as well as the Action Styles Questionnaire by Z. Uchnast. The results obtained have allowed the researchers to form the opinion that hope helps individuals function better in the world. The way in which a person perceives the world and their own capabilities translates into the style of action which they choose. A person who is full of hope seeks self­‑actualisation as well as cooperation with others.
Efeito da taxa de carregamento sobre a remoção de poluentes de esgoto em sistemas alagados construídos
Authors: Matos Antonio T. de , Brasil Mozart da S. , Monaco Paola A. V. Lo
Published: April 2016

Objetivou-se estudar o efeito da taxa de carregamento sobre a eficiência de sistemas alagados, construídos de escoamento horizontal subsuperficial (SAC-EHSS), em remover poluentes de esgoto sanitário. Os SAC-EHSS foram alimentados com efluente proveniente de tanque séptico, sob taxas de carregamento orgânico volumétrico (TCO V) de 53 a 231 g m-3d-1 de demanda química de oxigênio (DQO total) e as associadas taxas de carregamento (TC V) de demanda química de oxigênio solúvel, sólidos suspensos totais (SST), nitrogênio total (N-Total) e fósforo total (P-Total). Para avaliação de desempenho dos SAC-EHSS, as mesmas variáveis foram quantificadas em seu efluente. Relação linear e positiva foi obtida entre as taxas de remoção de DQO total, DQO solúvel e SST, e as TC V, nas faixas em que foram aplicadas, além de não terem sido observados efeitos negativos desta variável sobre a eficiência na remoção desses poluentes. As taxas de remoção de N-Total e P-Total não apresentaram, entretanto, tendência de aumento com a TC V aplicada nos SAC- EHSS, cultivados com taboa e utilizados no tratamento de efluente sanitário. As cargas aplicadas desses nutrientes devem ser consideradas referenciais no dimensionamento desses sistemas, caso se queira maximizar a remoção global de poluentes da água residuária.
Combined effect of high concentrated loads exerted by TBM hydraulic jacks
Authors: Conforti Antonio , Tiberti Giuseppe , Plizzari Giovanni A.
Published: April 2016

During tunnel boring machine (TBM) operations, thrust jacks apply high concentrated forces to the last assembled tunnel ring. These loads generate in the precast segments a disturbed region under the thrust jacks, in which significant tensile stresses (defined as splitting or bursting stresses) occur perpendicular to the load direction. In addition, due to the compatibility requirement, the combined effect of TBM high concentrated loads may determine high tensile stresses in the area between loads, which lead to cracks defined as spalling cracks. Therefore, rebars or fibre reinforcement are required in these areas. Traditionally, steel fibres were used as fibre reinforcement, although now some types of structural macro-synthetic fibres are used that impart significant toughness and ductility to concrete. In the present study, eight plane specimens were tested under two loads applied on a small area to evaluate the effect of this loading configuration and the contribution of polypropylene (PP) fibre reinforcement in controlling both spalling and splitting phenomena. The results show that failure is mainly governed by splitting phenomena, and that PP fibres could be efficiently used in precast tunnel segments as both equilibrium (splitting) and compatibility (spalling) reinforcement.
Índice de informação contábil pública: um estudo nos municípios brasileiros
Authors: Souza Fabia Jaiany Viana de , Araújo Aneide Oliveira , Silva Maurício Corrêa da
Published: April 2016

Esta pesquisa tem o objetivo de avaliar os índices de divulgação de informação contábil pública dos municípios brasileiros. A pesquisa pode ser classificada como qualitativa, descritiva e documental. Os resultados revelaram que São Paulo foi aquele com maior pontuação para o índice analisado, com 67,86% dos itens divulgados em seu sitio, seguido por Vitória (64,29%), Londrina e Porto Alegre com (60,71%), Rio de Janeiro (53,57%), Cuiabá e Curitiba com (50%) das práticas observadas nos sítios. Além disso, identificou-se Belford Roxo como o município com o menor índice (7,14%) de divulgação de informações contábeis, seguido por Juazeiro do Norte (10,71%) e Boa Vista (14,30%). Conclui-se que os municípios não estão evidenciando em seus portais eletrônicos informações que permitam aos cidadãos conhecer a gestão financeira de seus municípios, uma vez que foi observada a existência de entes municipais que não divulgam nenhum dos demonstrativos contábeis exigidos pela legislação vigente e que não foi possível perceber nos sítios um estímulo a sociedade participar da gestão municipal.
Relatório Modificado de auditoria: análise pré e pós-convergência aos padrões internacionais de contabilidade
Authors: Silvestre Adalene Olivia , Bernardes Sprenger Kélim , Kronbauer Clóvis Antônio
Published: April 2016

Em uma realidade negocial internacionalizada, a divulgação de informações adequadas, transparentes e comparáveis se tornou essencial, concedendo grande importância às normas internacionais de contabilidade. A realização de auditoria independente e a consequente emissão de seu relatório conferem às demonstrações contábeis maior credibilidade. Assim, o presente estudo tem como objetivo verificar quais são os principais motivos que ocasionam a emissão de relatório de auditoria independente (RAI) modificado, nas empresas listadas no segmento tradicional da BM&FBOVESPA, no período pré e pós-convergência aos padrões internacionais de contabilidade. Para atender ao objetivo, analisou-se os RAI emitidos entre os anos de 2004 a 2007, período pré-convergência, e os anos de 2010 a 2013, período pós-convergência. Foram coletados os RAI das 250 empresas listadas no segmento tradicional da BM&FBOVESPA, das quais 184 apresentaram os RAI referentes a todos os exercícios, foco do estudo, totalizando 1.472 relatórios. Do total dos RAI analisados 206 apresentaram modificações. Sobre esses, realizou-se análise dos motivos que justificaram a modificação e buscou-se a relação existente entre os motivadores do período pós-convergência e as normas internacionais. Os principais resultados demonstram que os motivos predominantes no período pré-convergência são investimentos e tributos; já no período pós-convergência são investimentos e continuidade. Quanto à relação entre os motivadores do período pós-convergência e as alterações trazidas pelas normas internacionais, verificou-se que do total de 213 motivadores, 36 referem-se às alterações, principalmente devido a teste de impairment, arrendamento mercantil, intangível e empréstimos e financiamentos.
SHOWING ITS TEETH: The Jali Commission on prison corruption
Authors: Sekhonyane Makubetse
Published: April 2016

Some regard the Jali Commission as another expensive exercise aimed at making recommendations that have little effect. To many South Africans, the Grootvlei video on prison corruption televised nationally this year, was the beginning of a revelation. But would this video have seen the light of day if the Jali Commission did not exist? And would there have been a specialised unit to investigate corruption, had the commission not been there? It is likely that the Jali Commission has indeed changed the way in which commissions of this kind are perceived.
FOR BETTER AND FOR WORSE: South African crime trends in 2002
Authors: Masuku Sibusiso
Published: April 2016

National and provincial police crime figures indicate that crime has, to a certain extent, levelled off in the course of 2002. Murder continues to decline, as does vehicle theft. However, the trends for car hijacking are less positive. Of all the provinces, Western Cape, Northern Cape and Gauteng featured prominently in most of the crime categories. The volume of interpersonal violent crime remains a cause for concern, which suggests that government intervention should expand its focus on crime prevention through social development.
NPA IN THE DOCK: Thumbs up for the prosecution service
Authors: Schönteich Martin
Published: April 2016

General public confidence in the criminal justice system and the government’s handling of crime is low, according to an Institute for Security Studies survey. Yet, most people trust the police and would willingly give evidence in court. People who have been to court as state witnesses are more positive about the work of the prosecution service compared to those who have not. Indeed, most court users have a positive opinion of prosecutors and the work they do. Dissatisfaction is primarily a result of lengthy delays in trials, and unhelpful and unprofessional prosecutors.
MAKING THEIR MARK: Perceptions and experience of policing in Meadowlands
Authors: Burton Patrick
Published: April 2016

The Meadowlands police are faced with a disproportionate lack of resources and staff. In the meantime the people of Meadowlands experience high levels of crime that fuel a lack of faith in the police and perceptions of poor police performance. The police are seen as lazy, corrupt, and unwilling to venture into certain areas. The SAPS needs to determine whether these perceptions are justified, and whether there are simply insufficient resources at the station to meet the community’s demands. Yet, despite the constraints facing the police, public interactions with the SAPS do in some instances result in improved perceptions of the local police. The community also sees the police as the first port of call in times of trouble.
A VIOLENT LEGACY: The taxi industry and government at loggerheads
Authors: Sekhonyane Makubetse , Dugard Jackie
Published: April 2016

For over a decade the taxi industry has been heavily embroiled in conflicts that have claimed thousands of lives. At the heart of the problem is the persistent struggle over control of this multi-billion rand industry that carries over 60% of South Africa’s commuters. Given its troubled and often violent history, and its substantial share of the commuter market, clearer government commitment is needed in the form of adequate investment and implementation of a comprehensive and participatory recapitalisation programme.
NUMBERS THAT COUNT: National monitoring of police conduct
Authors: Masuku Themba
Published: April 2016

Publicly available data on police misconduct and the use of force has been found to be unreliable and inconsistent. Such information is important for public accountability, but also for police managers to monitor their staff and thereby improve performance and service delivery. Indicators of police use of lethal and nonlethal force, torture, public complaints and corruption must be developed and monitored by the police, and reported to the public via the SAPS annual report.
WEATHERING THE STORM: Tough questions for the Scorpions
Authors: Redpath Jean
Published: April 2016

The ‘Scorpions’ are probably the most recognised law enforcement body in South Africa. Yet their existence appeared to be under threat during 2003 when highly placed figures suggested that they ‘cherry-pick’ their cases, and are open to political manipulation. There was even talk of disbandment or restructuring under the police on the grounds of unconstitutionality. While the Scorpions appear to have weathered that particular storm, the issues remain. Is there any substance to the accusations?
HIDDEN AGENDAS? The risks of human trafficking legislation
Authors: Leggett Ted
Published: April 2016

South Africa is a signatory to the United Nations Protocol on Trafficking in Persons, and is likely to draft legislation on the topic soon. But the extent of the problem in South Africa is unclear, and the offences involved in trafficking are punishable under current law. To avoid unintended consequences, care is needed in drafting a new law in this area.
NO ONE TO TRUST: Preliminary results from a Manenberg crime survey
Authors: Leggett Ted
Published: April 2016

A survey of crime in Manenberg reveals the hold that gangs still have on the community. Many believe the police take protection money from gangsters, and most doubt the police’s ability to protect witnesses in a murder trial. Public knowledge about drugs is high, especially among the youth, which suggests open drug markets that can only exist when enforcement is lax. It is not surprising then that local public opinion of the police is much more negative than that recorded in a recent national victim survey.
ASSESSING THE FUTURE OF RURAL POLICING: The impact of closing the Commandos
Authors: Steinberg Jonny
Published: April 2016

Implicit in President Mbeki’s controversial announcement in February 2003 that the Commandos are to be phased out is a statement that the SAPS is now strong enough to police rural South Africa on its own, and that the uncomfortable, transitional role the military has been playing in this area can come to an end. The key question posed in a recent ISS study was whether rural policing would be strengthened or weakened by the decision. The research suggests that closing the Commandos will weaken rural policing but strengthen the policing of contact crimes in rural towns.
THE DANGERS OF DATA: Recognising the limitations of crime statistics
Authors: Altbeker Antony
Published: April 2016

It is frequently noted that police crime statistics can reflect reality badly because of under-reporting and under-recording. Less frequently noted is the fact that other sources of data can be just as problematic. This article reflects on two sources of statistics on murder – the National Injury Mortality Surveillance System and the MRC’s Burden of Disease estimates – and argues that the incautious use of these data can lead to erroneous conclusions.
TARGETING FOREIGNERS: Xenophobia among Johannesburg’s police
Authors: Masuku Themba
Published: April 2016

Several media and research studies have reported on police abuse and ill-treatment of undocumented foreigners in South Africa, concluding that xenophobia is a major problem in the SAPS. But how pervasive is xenophobia in the police? Where does it come from and what can be done about it? Based on a survey of police officials in the Johannesburg area, this article examines the phenomenon and attempts to provide some answers.
PETTY CRIMES THAT MATTER: Evaluating the Western Cape community courts
Authors: Lue-Dugmore Melanie , Karth Vanja , Redpath Jean
Published: April 2016

By focusing on petty crimes, community courts hope to encourage a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to criminality, develop integrated and constructive responses to local crime problems, and alleviate case loads in magistrates’ courts. Based on an evaluation of three community courts in the Western Cape, this article argues that overall, the courts are functioning satisfactorily. Challenges in the areas of planning, public awareness, police data collection, and the provision of diversion and alternative sentencing options must, however, be addressed.
CHEAP LIVES: Countering human trafficking - considerations and constraints
Authors: Gould Chandré
Published: April 2016

In May 2006 the South African Law Reform Commission released a discussion paper and draft legislation on human trafficking for public comment by the end of June this year. In order to successfully identify, investigate and prosecute cases of trafficking, law enforcement agencies need a clear understanding of what constitutes trafficking. But human trafficking is a slippery concept – frequently confused with human smuggling or used as a blanket term for the sexual exploitation of women and children. In evaluating national and international research on the issue, this article finds that understanding the extent and nature of the problem is complicated, not only by contending definitions, but also by the lack of representative data about trafficking nationally and internationally.
DOUBLE TROUBLE: Youth from violent families: easy victims of crime?
Authors: Leoschut Lezanne
Published: April 2016

Crime and violence are pervasive in South Africa, and children and young people in particular are exposed to high rates of violence within their homes. This article demonstrates that exposure to family violence increases the vulnerability of young people to becoming victims of crime. Interventions are needed that aim to change behaviour within families, provide institutional support for children outside the home, and thus make a tangible difference to the lives of South African youth.
RACISM, SELF-ESTEEM AND VIOLENCE IN SA: Gaps in the NCPS’ explanation?
Authors: Bruce David
Published: April 2016

Ten years after the launch of the National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS), South Africa is still bedevilled by high levels of violence. Given this situation, it is worth reflecting on the NCPS’ analysis of the causes of crime and violence. In particular it seems the Strategy may have failed to recognise the important role that internalised racism, and related low self-esteem and concerns about status, would play in contributing to violence. These issues are discussed here in relation to the high level of interpersonal assaults in South Africa.
A MEASURE OF LAST RESORT? Child offenders and life imprisonment
Authors: Du Toit Carina
Published: April 2016

The main principle when sentencing children is that imprisonment should be a measure of last resort and only for the shortest appropriate period of time. However, contrary to international and foreign law in this regard, South Africa continues to sentence children to life imprisonment. The aim of this article is to contrast our current sentencing practices with regard to life imprisonment for children, with the sentencing principles set out in South African common law and in international law. Furthermore, the article sets out the negative effects of a mandatory life sentence in terms of the minimum sentences legislation.
THE START OF A ‘CRIME WAVE’? The 2005/06 official crime statistics in context
Authors: Louw Antoinette
Published: April 2016

Despite growing fears of a new ‘crime wave’, the public have access to official crime statistics only up to March 2006. Although much of the news up to this point was positive, perceptions of the statistics and of government’s position on crime in the last six months have been characterised by scepticism and alarm. The Minister of Safety and Security assured us that next year the statistics will be released soon after the end of the financial year. This, together with a much clearer strategy and commitment from government as a whole for dealing with crime, may help to assuage public anxiety.
THE NUMBERING OF DAYS: Sentencing and prison population growth
Authors: Giffard Chris , Muntingh Lukas
Published: April 2016

On 30 May 2007 the Criminal Law Amendment Bill (15 of 2007) was tabled in Parliament, proposing amendments to what has become known as the ‘minimum sentences’ legislation. The proposed amendments herald another chapter in the prison overcrowding debate in South Africa and will focus attention on the impact of sentencing on the size of the prison population.
MINDFUL PUNISHMENT: What to do about the South African penal system, and why
Authors: Clear Todd R
Published: April 2016

Penal reform is crucial to South Africa’s long term crime control and criminal justice agendas. This article shows how the penal system could respond more ethically without an overwhelming investment of new resources. There are two strategies South Africa can employ to create a ‘mindful’ penal system. First, the length of sentences must be reduced. Second, a viable new system of community based (non-prison) penalties must be created. Neither strategy will be easy, but doing one without the other will fail.