bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can a Person with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder be an Athlete?
Authors: Vlad Alexandru Robert , Lungu Andreea Ioana
Published: September 2017

Attention-deficit–hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neuropsychiatric disorder that impairs academic, social and occupational functioning in children, adolescents and adults. It is characterized by excessive activity, restlessness, and nervousness. The disease occurs in general at children before the age of 7 and usually is not easy to be detected, due to various symptoms. When the diagnosis is established the physician can prescribe two types of drugs, stimulants: amphetamine, dexamphetamine, lisdexamphetamine, methylphenidate, and non-stimulants such as: guanfacine, atomoxetine, and clonidine. So what can be done for a person who has ADHD, and wants to be an elite athlete? Due to the rules established by the World Anti-Doping Agency the stimulant drugs are prohibited in competition and if traces of a prohibited substance are detected in the sample of blood of the athlete his access to competition can be blocked from 2-4 years, from that date of the incident. Fortunately for some athletes the disease was acute in childhood but as they grew up the symptoms were reminiscent and they could concentrate at the sporting task that was supposed to be achieved. What about those athletes that still have the symptoms? Well, they can be treated with the non-stimulant drugs, but their doctor must monthly verify if the list of prohibited drugs has been changed. In conclusion we can say that ADHD can be an impediment, but with the help of parents, teachers, and physicians the athlete can achieve very good performances.
Morphology Analysis of Friction Particles Generated in Tractor Transmission Oils
Authors: Kučera Marián , Aleš Zdeněk
Published: September 2017

The aim of the study was the examination of the morphological and compositional attributes of wear particles of tested universal tractor transmission oil (UTTO) samples by means of automatic particle counter and classifier LaserNetFinesTM-C, which is an ideal tool to establish the dynamic equilibrium concentration and hence to set the alarm limits for any type of machine. Such limits can be based on wear type and particle size ranges. The samples of two UTTO (mineral oil and biodegradable fully synthetic oil) were taken from the rear gearboxes of the wheel tractor during a long-term experiment. The measurement results showed that there was faster increase in the particle wear of mineral oil in comparison to biodegradable transmission oil. Considering the increase in the percentage of particles over 20 μm, the biodegradable oil seems to be more favourable for usage. Regardless of this, it can be concluded that the biodegradable oil is equivalent to petroleum-based oils.
The Influence of Physical Fatigue on Work on a Production Line
Authors: Kołodziej Sabina , Ligarski Mariusz J.
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study is to determine the factors having impacts on the physical fatigue of employees and to analyse its influence on work on a production line. In order to carry out these objectives, a comprehensive research was conducted in a medium enterprise producing processed fruit and vegetable products. Air temperature and humidity tests, employee survey, production line productivity measurements, and other observations were performed. Large variations in temperature and humidity were observed during the analysed period. Analysing the survey results, attention was paid to the declared length of sleeping of employees after each shift, the time when they feel fatigue and the factors that, according to respondents, have the greatest impact on the work performed. Attempts were made to determine the wellbeing of employees and to indicate the disturbing symptoms. Special attention was paid to the negative phenomena felt by respondents. The main factors affecting the physical fatigue of employees were identified and described. We sought to explain the impacts of physical fatigue on work on the production line. Improvements, which should help to reduce fatigue and improve working conditions, have been proposed. The analysis provided interesting information that could be used in various food manufacturing companies.
Experimental Research of Stripping the Leaves from Root Crops
Authors: Baranovsky Viktor , Dubchak Natalia , Pankiv Maria
Published: September 2017

Modern trends in root crop machinery include the development and implementation of highly efficient, energy-saving and technologically reliable harvesting systems and facilities into agricultural production. The main criteria for meeting these demands are the digging quality and root crop impurities separation characteristics. The objective of research is the justification of design and kinematic parameters of cleaning tools. The paper provides description of the experimental unit and procedures for experimental research of the process of stripping the haulm residues from root crop heads. A histogram and polygon were plotted for probability density function of random variables of the length of leaf remnants on root crop heads. The differential law for a probability density function of length of leaf remnants after the stripping by cylindrical rollers was obtained. The approximate linear dependence was obtained as a regression equation, which describes a change in the length of leaf remnants on the root crop heads depending on the diameter and rotation speed of rollers. The aforementioned method and results obtained in experimental research can be used by specialists at design engineering bureaus for development of new or improvement of existing combined cleaning systems.
Turbine Modification of Nuovo Pignone Gas Turbine
Authors: Gašparovič Dominik , Výžinkár Marián , Žarnovský Jozef , Blata Jan
Published: September 2017

This paper deals with the environmental aspects of combustor modification on Nuovo Pignone gas turbines. The mentioned company is engaged in the transport of natural gas to the Slovak Republic and further to other European markets. Legislation considering emissions is getting stricter every year. Original Nuovo Pignone gas turbines would not be able to meet the required emission limits for NOx and COr determined by legislation. Therefore, the company decided to modify seven gas turbines. Due to this reason, the combustion sections had to be replaced with a dry low emission system. These modifications were aimed at improvement of impacts of temperature on the emissions of NOx, since the NOx emissions are defined as thermal (there is an increase in emissions with the increase in temperature). Emissions were monitored continuously by an emission monitoring system (these data are continuously sent to the Office of Environment) and manually by a HORIBA PG-250 analyser. Gas delivery point is located in the flue pipeline, and data was processed by means of PC after reaching this point. The results lead us to conclusion that modification was an efficient and good solution in terms of economy, because this solution reduced emissions (from 300 mg·m−3 to 50 mg·m−3) and contributed to meeting of the stricter emission limits (from 370 mg·m−3 to 100 mg·m−3). Monitoring of the impacts of growing performance of equipment on emissions represents a possibility for further development of science in this field.
Approximations to the Non-Isothermal Distributed Activation Energy Model for Biomass Pyrolysis Using the Rayleigh Distribution
Authors: Dhaundiyal Alok , Singh Suraj B.
Published: September 2017

This paper deals with the influence of some parameters relevant to biomass pyrolysis on the numerical solutions of the nonisothermal n
th order distributed activation energy model using the Rayleigh distribution. Investigated parameters are the integral upper limit, the frequency factor, the heating rate, the reaction order and the scale parameters of the Rayleigh distribution. The influence of these parameters has been considered for the determination of the kinetic parameters of the non-isothermal n
th order Rayleigh distribution from the experimentally derived thermoanalytical data of biomass pyrolysis.
Detailed Geoecological Research of Terroir with the Focus on Georelief and Soil – A Case Study of Krátke Kesy Vineyards
Authors: Falťan Vladimír , Krajčírovičová Lucia , Petrovič František , Khun Miloslav
Published: September 2017

The aim of this research is to present the application of the detailed geoecological research for use by the identification of natural elements of terroir, based on the example of cadastral area Krátke Kesy. The characteristics of georelief (influencing the microclimate of vineyards) and soil characteristics (affecting the vineyard nutrition) are the most important elements of a terroir on a local scale. We present maps of 10 types of geoecological complexes in topic dimension, whose borders were allocated on the base of georelief as a leading factor of regionalization. Foot slopes, transport slopes and terraces prevail in the vineyard. Cultivated Haplic and Luvi-Haplic Chernozem of the Danube Lowland have excellent conditions for precision agriculture. The impact of soil factors on vineyards was evaluated with the use of accredited laboratory analysis. Using statistical methods, we confirmed the hypothesis that the relationship between observed relevant soil elements in the study area and sugar content of grape is direct, and between the soil elements and acids in must is indirect. The biggest dependence was seen for magnesium, zinc and copper. Research results were presented in the form of maps and tables that can find use in vineyard and landscape-ecological practice.
Effect of Forest Ecosystems on the Snow Water Equivalent in Relation to Aspect And Elevation in the Hučava River Watershed, Poľana Biosphere Reserve (Slovakia)
Authors: Mikloš Michal , Vyskot Ilja , Šatala Tomáš , Korísteková Katarína , Jančo Martin , Škvarenina Jaroslav
Published: September 2017

The aim of this work was to assess how forest ecosystems dominated by Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) or European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) affect snow water equivalent (SWE) in relation to aspect and elevation. The research plots were established in a small headwater watershed of the Hučava flow belonging to the Poľana Biosphere Reserve (Central Europe, Inner Western Carpathians). The SWE values in this watershed (approximately 580–1270 m a.s.l.) were monitored during the three winter seasons starting from 2012–2013 to 2014–2015. The results revealed high variability in SWE and in snow cover duration between the studied seasons. The spatial variability was significantly affected by the forest ecosystem, aspect and elevation. The seasonal mean SWE value was lower by about 50–60% in the spruce forests and by about 21–30% in the beech forests compared to the open areas (100%). Over the whole seasons, the whole watershed mean SWE value on the slopes with the northern aspect was mostly higher compared to the slopes with the southern aspect. The effect of aspect was significant mainly in the open areas and in the forests dominated by European beech during the ablation periods of every season. In the case of the sufficient snow cover, the mean SWE value always increased with elevation. The elevation gradient of SWE was steepest at the open areas of the watershed in the peaks of the winter seasons. The three-season mean value of SWE elevation gradient (per 100 m) at the time of snow accumulation peak was equal to 16 mm in the spruce forests, 20 mm in the beech forests and 26 mm in the open areas. The research revealed that SWE is significantly affected by the forest ecosystem whilst its effect is dependent on the occurrence of dominant deciduous or coniferous tree species. However, the effect of forests is closely related to topographic characteristics (aspect and elevation) of a locality.
Basel Problem
Authors: Pąk Karol , Korniłowicz Artur
Published: September 2017

A rigorous elementary proof of the Basel problem [6, 1]

∑

n
=
1

∞

1

n
2

=

π
2

6

$$\sum\nolimits_{n = 1}^\infty {{1 \over {n^2 }} = {{\pi ^2 } \over 6}} $$

is formalized in the Mizar system [3]. This theorem is item #14 from the “Formalizing 100 Theorems” list maintained by Freek Wiedijk at http://www.cs.ru.nl/F.Wiedijk/100/.
New data on helminth fauna of birds of prey (Falconiformes, Accipitriformes, Strigiformes) in the Slovak Republic
Authors: Komorová P. , Sitko J. , Špakulová M. , Hurníková Z. , Sałamatin R. , Chovancová G.
Published: September 2017

In the years 2012-2014, carcasses of 286 birds of prey from the territory of Slovakia were examined for the presence of helminth parasites. The number of bird species in the study was 23; five belonging to the Falconiformes order, eleven to Accipitriformes, and seven to Strigiformes. A finding of Cestoda class comprehended 4 families: Paruterinidae (4), Dilepididae (2), Mesocestoididae (2) and Anoplocephalidae (1). Birds of prey were infected with 6 families Nematoda species of the Secernentea class: Syngamidae (1), Habronematidae (2), Tetrameridae (3), Physalopteridae (1), Acuariidae (1), and Anisakidae (2). Out of the Adenophorea class, the Capillariidae family (1) was confirmed. The Acanthocephala group was represented by the Paleacanthocephala class, the Centrorhynchidae family (3). Out of the Trematoda class, 12 different species of flukes were found, belonging to the Diplostomidae (5), Cyathocotylidae (1), Strigeidae (4), Opistorchidae (1), and Plagiorchidae (1) families. The most frequent helminth species infecting diurnal birds of prey wasStrigea falconis. This fluke was confirmed in one bird species from the Falconiformes order and in eight species from the Accipitriformes order. In nocturnal birds of prey, the most common finding was the acanthocephalanCentrorhynchus aluconis,identified in four different host species of the Strigiformes order. In total, 23 helminth species were recorded for the first time in Slovakia.
Within the City: Ongoing Experiences in Local Urban Development Plans
Authors: Benelli Federica , Magaudda Stefano
Published: September 2017

The article presents a series of urban regeneration programmes carried out in the Lazio Region from 2011 to 2016, and financed by the resources of the cohesion policy 2007–2013. It covers: programme background, experience of the Municipality of Aprilia analysed in its most relevant details, some reflections concerning opportunities and limits of the programme, and some key elements to be developed in future research.
Role of Universities in City Renovation and in Shaping Its International Brand: A Case Study of the Polish City of Lodz
Authors: Domański Tomasz
Published: September 2017

This paper aims at highlighting the role of higher education institutions in Lodz in the regeneration of urban space and in building the international brand of a university town. Higher education institutions in Lodz are managers and administrators of many historic buildings that testify to the identity of the city and its rich historic legacy. Besides renovating these buildings, universities provide them with new functions by opening them up to local and international communities. Innovation in regenerating cultural heritage may become a distinguishing feature of both Lodz universities and international city’s brand strategy. The key challenge to Lodz is to complete the global regeneration of a post-industrial city in social, cultural, economic, and spatial dimensions using EU funds.
Place Branding and Citizen Involvement: Participatory Approach to Building and Managing City Brands
Authors: Hereźniak Marta
Published: September 2017

This article examines the role of citizens in the process of building and managing city brands. A multidisciplinary approach is applied to explain the multifaceted nature of territorial brands and citizen involvement. To this end, theoretical concepts from marketing and corporate branding, public management, and human geography are applied. By conceptualising place branding as a public policy and a governance process, and drawing from the concept of participatory place branding, the author discusses a variety of methods and instruments used to involve citizens. Special attention is given to the importance of modern technologies for effective citizen involvement.
Association Between Vitamin D Deficiencies in Sarcoidosis with Disease Activity, Course of Disease and Stages of Lung Involvements
Authors: Kiani Arda , Abedini Atefeh , Adcock Ian M. , Mirenayat Maryam Sadat , Taghavi Kimia , Mortaz Esmaeil , Kazempour-Dizaji Mehdi
Published: September 2017

Background:Despite negative association between 25-hydroxy vitamin D and incidence of many chronic respiratory diseases, this feature was not well studied in sarcoidosis. Current study investigated the association between 25-hydroxy vitamin D deficiency with sarcoidosis chronicity, disease activity, extra-pulmonary skin manifestations, urine calcium level and pulmonary function status in Iranian sarcoidosis patients. Results of this study along with future studies, will supply more effective programs for sarcoidosis treatment.

Methods:Eighty sarcoidosis patients in two groups of insufficient serum level and sufficient serum level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D were studied. Course of sarcoidosis was defined as acute and chronic sarcoidosis. Pulmonary function test (PFT) was assessed by spirometry. Skin involvements were defined as biopsy proven skin sarcoidosis. 24-hour urine calcium level was used to specify the disease activity. Stages of lung involvements were obtained by CT-scan and chest X-ray. The statistical analyses were evaluated using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.

Results:A significant negative correlation was obtained between vitamin D deficiency in sarcoidosis patients and disease chronic course and stages two to four of lung involvements. Considering other parameters of the disease and vitamin D deficiency, no significant correlation was detected.

Conclusions:In conclusion, results of the current study implies in the role of vitamin 25(OH)D deficiencies in predicting the course of chronic sarcoidosis. Furthermore, it was concluded that vitamin 25(OH)D deficiency can direct pulmonary sarcoidosis toward stage 2–4 of lung involvements.
Effect of Blood Cell Subtypes Lysis on Routine Biochemical Tests
Authors: Ünlü Burcu , Küme Tuncay , Emek Mestan , Örmen Murat , Doğan Yavuz , Şişman Ali Rıza , Ergör Gül , Çoker Canan
Published: September 2017

Background: The aim of this study is to establish the contribution of blood cells subtypes on hemolysis. Methods: Separated blood cell subtype suspensions prepared with blood from 10 volunteers were serially diluted to obtain different concentrations of cell suspensions. The cells were fully lysed and cell hemolysates were added (1:20) to aliquots of serum pool. Thus, seven serum pools with different concentrations of interferent were obtained for each blood cell subtype. Biochemical parameters and serum indices were measured by an autoanalyzer. As cell lysis markers, free hemoglobin was measured by spectrophotometry while myeloperoxidase and b-thromboglobulin were measured by enzyme immunoassay. The percent changes in analyte levels of the serum pools were evaulated by Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and compared with clinical thresholds defined for each test. Results: The clinical thresholds were exceeded in lactate dehydrogenase, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, magnesium, total protein, total cholesterol, inorganic phosphate, glucose for red blood cells (RBC); lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, total protein, inorganic phosphate and glucose for platelets (PLT). Free hemoglobin was significantly correlated with RBC (r=0.999; p=0.001), while myeloperoxidase and b thromboglobulin showed no significant correlation to white blood cells (WBC) and PLT, respectively. Conclusion: The effect of RBC hemolysis in serum on the routine biochemical tests are clearly established, yet, additional studies are required in order to verify this kind of effects of PLT and WBC hemolysis.
Clinical Utility of Survivin (BIRC5), Novel Cardiac Biomarker, as a Prognostic Tool Compared to High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein, Heart-Type Fatty Acid Binding Protein and Revised Lee Score in Elderly Patients Scheduled for Major Non-Cardiac Surgery: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Marković Danica , Jevtović-Stoimenov Tatjana , Ćosić Vladan , Stošić Biljana , Dinić Vesna , Marković-Živković Bojana , Janković Radmilo J.
Published: September 2017

Background:Recent studies indicate that survivin (BIRC5) is sensitive to the existence of previous ischemic heart disease, since it is activated in the process of tissue repair and angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to determine the potential of survivin (BIRC5) as a new cardiac biomarker in the preoperative assessment of cardiovascular risk in comparison with clinically accepted cardiac biomarkers and one of the relevant clinical risk scores.

Methods:We included 79 patients, female (41) and male (38), with the mean age of 71.35±6.89. Inclusion criteria: extensive non-cardiac surgery, general anesthesia, age >55 and at least one of the selected cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, smoking and positive family history). Exclusion criteria: emergency surgical procedures and inability to understand and sign an informed consent. Blood sampling was performed 7 days prior surgery and levels of survivin (BIRC5), hsCRP and H-FABP were measured.

Results:Revised Lee score was assessed based on data found in patients’ history. Levels of survivin (BIRC5) were higher in deceased patients (P<0.05). It showed AUC=0.807 (95% CI, P<0.0005, 0.698–0.917), greater than both H-FABP and revised Lee index, and it increases the mortality prediction when used together with both biomarkers and revised Lee score. The determined cut-off value was 4 pg/mL and 92.86% of deceased patients had an increased level of survivin (BIRC5), (P=0.005).

Conclusions:Survivin (BIRC5) is a potential cardiac biomarker even in elderly patients without tumor, but it cannot be used independently. Further studies with a greater number of patients are needed.
The occurrence of three species of the genus Oscheius Andrássy, 1976 (Nematoda: Rhabditida) in Iran
Authors: Valizadeh Ahmad , Goldasteh Shila , Rafiei-Karahroodi Zahra , Pedram Majid
Published: September 2017

Due to importance and effectiveness of some entomopathogenic or insect parasitic nematodes in controlling of agricultural pests, or pests of non-agricultural plants, a study was conducted in order to identify the species of this group of nematodes in city of Tehran. As the result, three species belonging to the genusOscheiuswere recovered in association with bark samples having the bark beetle galleries. Morphological and molecular data were provided for two recently recovered species of the genus, namelyO. necromenusandO. onirici. Molecular data were also provided for a recently recovered isolate ofO. tipulae. All three species were recovered in association with bark samples collected from dead trees in the city of Tehran. Morphological characters and morphometric data of the two aforementioned species are in accordance with the data given in their original descriptions. One recovered individual from a small bark sample characterized by its short body length was sequenced for its 28S and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rDNA loci, and the results of BLAST search using the newly obtained partial sequences revealed that it belonged toO. tipulae. Molecular phylogenetic studies revealed recently sequenced Iranian populations ofO. oniriciandO. tipulaeforming a clade with other isolates/populations of these species in ITS tree with maximal Bayesian posterior probability (BPP), and presently sequenced isolates ofO. tipulaeandO. necromenusform a clade with other isolates of these species in 28S tree. The two speciesO. oniriciandO. necromenuswere reported in Iran for the first time.
Involvement of Individuals in the Development of Technical Solutions and Rules of Management for Building Renovation Projects: A Case Study of Latvia
Authors: Pukite I. , Grekis A. , Geipele I. , Zeltins N.
Published: September 2017

In March 2016, the Latvian government approved a new support program for increasing energy efficiency in residential apartment buildings. For the support of renovation of apartment buildings in the period from 2016 to 2023, 166 470 588 EUR will be available.

Different persons, such as energy auditors, designers, architects, project managers and builders, will be involved in the process of planning, development and implementation of building renovation. At the development stage of the building renovation project, special attention should be devoted to the first stage – energy audit and technical project development. The problem arises due to the fact that each of these individuals, during the development of technical building documentation, does not work as a completely unified system.

The implementation of construction project planning and organisational management system is one of the most important factors to guarantee that the quality of building renovation project is ensured in accordance with the laws and regulatory standards.

The paper studies mutual cooperation, professionalism and the role of information feedback of personnel involved in the planning stage of building renovation, which is an essential prerequisite for the renovation process in order to achieve high quality of work and reduce the energy performance indicator.

The present research includes the analysis of different technical solutions and their impact on energy efficiency. Mutual harmonisation of technical specifications is also investigated.
Measurements of Wave Power in Wave Energy Converter Effectiveness Evaluation
Authors: Berins J. , Berins J. , Kalnacs A.
Published: September 2017

The article is devoted to the technical solution of alternative budget measuring equipment of the water surface gravity wave oscillation and the theoretical justification of the calculated oscillation power. This solution combines technologies such as lasers, WEB-camera image digital processing, interpolation of defined function at irregular intervals, volatility of discrete Fourier transformation for calculating the spectrum.
Stability and the Electronic Structure of XB2(X = Pt, Ir, Pd, Rh, Os) Diborides
Authors: Popoola A.I. , Odusote A.Y. , Ayo-Ojo O.E.
Published: September 2017

First-principle calculations have been performed to investigate the structural and electronic properties of platinum group metal diborides in the stoichiometry XB2(X = Pt, Ir, Pd, Rh, Os). All investigated compounds have shown to belong to the orthorhombicPmmn space group rather than theC2/m previously predicted in some of the compositions. Compressibility will reduce with boron addition in Pt, Pd and Rh, but will increase with boron addition into Ir and Os. The electronic density of states show that all the compounds are metals, with PtB2, PdB2and OsB2being potentially incompressible and superhard materials.
Analysis of Characteristics and Requirements for 5G Mobile Communication Systems
Authors: Ancans G. , Stafecka A. , Bobrovs V. , Ancans A. , Caiko J.
Published: September 2017

One of the main objectives of the fifth generation (5G) mobile communication systems, also known as IMT-2020, is to increase the current data rates up to several gigabits per second (Gbit/s) or even up to 10 Gbit/s and higher. One of the possibilities to consider is the use of higher frequencies in order to enlarge the available bandwidth. Wider bandwidth is necessary to achieve much higher data rates. It should be noted that wireless broadband transmission technologies require frequencies for their development.

The main goal of the research is to investigate the characteristics and requirements of 5G mobile communication systems. The paper provides an insight into deployment scenario and radio wave propagation in frequencies above 24 GHz of IMT-2020.
Environmental Performance of Kettle Production: Product Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Marcinkowski Andrzej , Zych Krzysztof
Published: September 2017

The main objective of this paper is to compare the environmental impact caused by two different types of water boiling processes. The aim was achieved thanks to product life cycle assessment (LCA) conducted for stovetop and electric kettles. A literature review was carried out. A research model was worked out on the basis of data available in literature as well as additional experiments. In order to have a better opportunity to compare LCA results with reviewed literature, eco-indicator 99 assessment method was chosen. The functional unit included production, usage and waste disposal of each product (according to from cradle to grave approach) where the main function is boiling 3360 l of water during 4-year period of time. A very detailed life cycle inventory was carried out. The mass of components was determined with accuracy of three decimal places (0.001 g). The majority of environmental impact is caused by electricity or natural gas consumption during usage stage: 92% in case of the electric and kettle and 99% in case of stovetop one. Assembly stage contributed in 7% and 0.8% respectively. Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses took into consideration various waste scenario patterns as well as demand for transport. Environmental impact turned out to be strongly sensitive to a chosen pattern of energy delivery (electricity mix) which determined final comparison results. Basing on LCA results, some improvements of products were suggested. The boiling time optimization was pointed out for electric kettle's efficiency improvement. Obtained results can be used by manufacturers in order to improve their eco-effectiveness. Moreover, conclusions following the research part can influence the future choices of home appliances users.
Analysis of Personal Income Taxation Determinants in Croatia in Long Run: Evidence from Cointegration Analysis
Authors: Palić Irena , Dumičić Ksenija , Grofelnik Barbara
Published: September 2017

Personal income taxation remains an ongoing issue in Croatia. It is used as an important instrument of income redistribution. Moreover, it directly affects purchasing power of the working population. Numerous changes have been made in this type of taxation since the establishment of Croatian tax system. The aim of this paper is to analyse possible determinants of personal income taxation in Croatia. After offering brief insight into public finance theory regarding personal income taxation, the structure of personal income taxation in Croatia is explained. The empirical analysis of the determinants of personal income taxation in Croatia is conducted using cointegration analysis. Economic conditions, average monthly wage, and number of taxpayers are used as determinants of personal income tax used in this research. The cointegration analysis is conducted using monthly data from January 2008 to February 2016. The results of the research show a statistically significant negative impact of economic conditions and statistically significant positive impact of average monthly wage and number of taxpayers on personal income taxation in long run, what is in line with economic and public finance theory.
Greenfield and Brownfield Investments and Economic Growth: Evidence from Central and Eastern European Union Countries
Authors: Bayar Yilmaz
Published: September 2017

Global foreign direct investment flows in terms of greenfield and brownfield investments have increased during the recent three decades resulting from the accelerating globalization. The considerable increases in the flows of foreign direct investment have many eventualities for the national economies. This study investigates the mutual effects among greenfield and brownfield (mergers and acquisitions) investments and economic growth in Central and Eastern European Union countries during the 2003–2015 period employing panel data analysis. The findings revealed that both greenfield and brownfield investments had positive influence on the economic growth, but the influence of greenfield investments was found to be relatively higher. Furthermore, one-way causality was discovered from both greenfield and brownfield investments to the economic growth.
Effect of Depreciation of the Exchange Rate on the Trade Balance of Albania
Authors: Kurtović Safet , Halili Blerim , Maxhuni Nehat
Published: September 2017

The paper investigates the effect of the real effective exchange rate depreciation of the lek on the trade balance of Albania using quarterly data from 1994 to 2015. Bounds testing cointegration approach, vector error correction model (VECM), and impulse response were used for the empirical analysis. The results of the study show a long-term cointegration between the real effective exchange rate (REER) and the trade balance (TB). Specifically, the REER depreciation positively affects the trade balance of Albania in both the long and short run, indicating the weak presence of the J-curve effect. Important recommendations were derived from the results.
Intergenerational Cooperation at the Workplace from the Management Perspective
Authors: Veingerl Čič Živa , Šarotar Žižek Simona
Published: September 2017

The labor market is currently experiencing employees of four generations. Each generation has different behavior patterns, attitudes, expectations, habits, and motivational mechanisms. As generational gaps play an important role in the business process, organizations have to find ways to balance the needs and views of different age groups. To overcome the negative outcomes arising from generational differences and to use the strengths of each generation, the implementation of comprehensive and proactive model of intergenerational cooperation, presented in the paper, is becoming the necessity for each organization because of the benefits.
Dosimetric proprieties of FBX dosimeter for high energy photon and electron beams
Authors: Moussous Ouiza , Medjadj Toufik , Khoudri Saad
Published: September 2017

The aim of this work is to characterize the ferrous sulfate-benzoic acid-xylenol orange (FBX) aqueous chemical dosimeter developed at our laboratory, prepared using ultra pure water, by measuring the absorption spectrum, dose response curve, precision and accuracy, energy and dose rate dependency and stability of response. The FBX readings were evaluated by using an accurate spectrophotometer. Experimental data were obtained using various nominal energies 6 MV, 18 MV, 12 MeV, and 15 MeV, including the60Co γ-rays beam. The calibration of the dosimeters was performed using the ionization chamber as a reference dosimeter. The results show that the FBX dosimeter has a good precision of about 0.2%, no significant energy, dose rate dependence and a linear dose-response relationship in the 1-5 Gy range.
Determinants of SME Finance: Evidence from Three Central European Countries
Authors: Rahman Ashiqur , Rahman M. Twyeafur , Belas Jaroslav
Published: September 2017

This paper explores the determinants of access to finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the context of three Central European countries: Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Hungary. The data set of the research is obtained from the BEEPS survey, which is conducted by the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. This paper empirically analyses firms not only from the SMEs point of view, but also shows results for micro, small and medium enterprises separately. Additionally, we have analysed the determinants of access to finance for SMEs at each country level for an in-depth understanding of country-level variations in SME financing. The results indicate that micro firms and firms owned and operated by women are experiencing a shortage of credits from banks. On the other hand, we found a positive relationship between the pledge of collateral and access to finance. With respect to the medium firms, we found evidence that innovative firms have a larger amount of credit from banks. The empirical results also suggest that the loan size increases as the interest rates increase in particular for SMEs on the whole and for micro-firms, although the interest rate is in a negative relationship with the loan size in Czech Republic.
Association of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and microalbuminuria in patients with normal eGFR
Authors: Kutlugun Aysun Aybal , Ebinc Fatma Ayerden , Ozturk Mujgan Tek , Efe Fatma Kaplan , Karadag İbrahim , Eser Murat , Unsal Oktay , Karakaya Serdar
Published: September 2017

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and microalbuminuria in patients with normal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Methods. 174 patients who had eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were studied. Patients were divided into two groups according to the urinary albumin excretion as microalbuminuric group (n = 105) and normoalbuminuric group (n = 69). NLR and PLR levels were calculated.

Results. NLR was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in microalbuminuric patients (1.91 ± 0.70) compared with normoalbuminuric patients (1.63 ± 0.53). A positive correlation was found between urine albumin excretion and NLR in the whole study group (r = 0.214, p < 0.005).

Conclusions. Higher NLR levels were found in microalbuminuric patients with normal eGFR. Also a significant positive correlation was observed between albuminuria and NLR.
Determination of undrained shear strength and constrained modulus from DMT for stiff overconsolidated clays
Authors: Lechowicz Zbigniew , Rabarijoely Simon , Kutia Tetiana
Published: September 2017

The paper presents the results of dilatometer and laboratory tests performed on heavily preconsolidated boulder clays and Pliocene clays prevailing in the Warsaw region. Several different correlations available for evaluating undrained shear strength and constrained modulus from dilatometer tests are discussed. Empirical coefficients for multi-factor correlation to obtain undrained shear strength from dilatometer tests for boulder clays and Pliocene clays were determined. The relationship between factor RM and horizontal stress index (KD) for boulder clays was proposed for the evaluation of constrained modulus from dilatometer tests.
IgA Pemphigus in a Child – a Case Report
Authors: Lekić Branislav , Gajić-Veljić Mirjana , Popadić Svetlana , Nikolić Miloš
Published: September 2017

IgA pemphigus (IGAP) is a rare autoimmune bullous disease characterized by IgA deposits on keratinocyte cell surfaces. The IGAP is classified into: 1) subcorneal pustular dermatosis (SPD) type, and 2) intraepidermal neutrophilic (IEN) IgA dermatosis type. So far, only 9 children with IGAP have been described in the literature, of whom only 3 with SPD type. We report a 3-year-old boy with SPD type of IGAP. Clinically, he presented with pruritic vesicles, pustules and erosions on the face, trunk, groin area, and extremities. Histopathology showed subcorneal pustules containing a few acantholytic cells. Direct immunofluorescence (DIF) test of Tzanck smear showed intercellular IgA deposits on the surface of the groups of epidermal cells. Oral dapsone and prednisone induced remission after two weeks; the treatment was discontinued 11 months later, and complete remission was achieved during 19 months without any treatment. Direct immunofluorescence of Tzanck smear is a simple, sensitive, rapid and non-aggressive test, very suitable for the diagnosis of IGAP in children.
Pyoderma Vegetans – a Case Report
Authors: Jevremović Ljubica , Ilijin Ivana , Kostić Kristina , Mijušković Željko , Tufegdžić Ivana , Kandolf Sekulović Lidija
Published: September 2017

Pyoderma vegetans (PV) or blastomycosis-like pyoderma (BLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease, by some authors considered a rare variety of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), and others describe it as a distinct entity. It commonly presents with verrucous plaques with multiple pustules. The etiology of this disease is unknown, but it has been connected with staphylococcal and streptococcal infections, inflammatory bowel disease, hematological diseases, primary immunodeficiency, alcoholism, and nutritional deficit. Here we present a 66-year-old, otherwise healthy female, with a 2-year-long history of well-defined, vegetative livid plaques with multiple pustules on the dorsal side of both hands. Histopathological analysis of the skin biopsy of the hand showed chronic inflammation and micro-abscesses, ruptured follicular cysts and follicular pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia. Treatment with anti-tuberculosis drugs and antibiotics showed to be ineffective, as well as the treatment with systemic corticosteroids, dapsone and cyclosporine. Itraconazole was given for its immunomodulatory effects and findings of Penicillium species in one of the swabs, which led to partial regression of lesions. Since the treatment did not lead to complete resolution, acitretin was indicated 3 months later, but the patient was lost to follow-up.
The Effect of Exchange Rate Movements and Economic Growth on Job Creation
Authors: Chipeta Chama , Meyer Daniel Francois , Muzindutsi Paul-Francois
Published: September 2017

Job creation is at the centre of economic development and remains a source of sustenance for social and human relations. The creation of a job-enabling economic environment is imperative in promoting social and economic cohesiveness in the macro and microeconomic environment. Any shocks to the economy, particularly those of exchange rate shocks and changes in economic growth, may negatively affect the labour market and job creation. This study made use of quarterly observations, from the first quarter of 1995 to the fourth quarter of 2015, to investigate the effect of the real exchange rate and economic growth on South Africa’s employment status. South Africa, a developing country, was selected as a case study due to its high unemployment rate that is still increasing. The Vector Autoregressive (VAR) model and multivariate co-integration techniques were used in assessing the impact and responsiveness of employment to the real exchange rate and real economic growth in South Africa. Findings of this study revealed that employment responds positively to economic growth and negatively to the real exchange rate in the long-run. The short-run displays a positive relationship between real economic growth and employment, while the relationship between employment and the real exchange rate is also negative. However, the effect of economic growth in creating jobs is not significant enough in stimulating job creation in South Africa, as indicated by results in variance decomposition. Movements in the exchange rate exerted a significant short and long-run negative effect on employment dynamics; implying that a depreciation of the rand against the U.S. dollar is associated with decrease in overall employment. Exchange rate stability is thus important for economic growth and job creation in South Africa. The study provided further recommendations on promoting job creation in South Africa and other developing countries.
Competitive Condition of Sub-Saharan Africa Commercial Banks
Authors: Akande Joseph Olorunfemi , Kwenda Farai
Published: September 2017

This study assesses the competitive environment and the determinants of the Sub-Saharan Africa commercial banking sectors. We used the Lerner index that is generally acknowledged as the best at estimating the bank level competition and the Generalised Method of Moments (GMM) to study 440 commercial banks for the period 2006 to 2015. We found a monopolistic competitive banking market. We also observed that competition is driven by the level of bank capital including some bank specific variables. Hence, we concluded that the banking market of the SSA region is contestable and competitive. As such, we recommend, among other things, that policy makers should device measures to ensure an ongoing competitive banking environment while stimulating other economic variables to complement this feat.
The Impact of the Problems Faced by Online Customers on Ecommerce
Authors: Sabou Simona , Avram-Pop Bianca , Zima Liliana Adela
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study is to identify the behavior of customers in the online environment. We analyzed the evolution, characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of this type of commerce, and its implications on the consumers. In order to identify the customers’ behavior online, we selected three variables which are characterized by time intervals of the latest online order, and six variables which analyze the main problems faced by consumers of goods/services bought online (a long shipping time, damaged products, non-compliant products, fraud related issues, underperforming complaint system, technical issues, lack of customer and legal aspects). Online commerce is less developed in the Czech Republic, Romania, Poland, Lithuania, Ireland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Slovenia and Norway. But, the advantages of ecommerce weigh more for the consumer than the problems they face, for example: online shoppers will continue to make online purchases even if they have experienced delays in delivering goods/services, damaged products, online fraud, technical problems or difficulties in finding information about the warranty of goods/services.
Architectural Design as an Expression of Religious Tolerance:
Authors: Hutterer Maile
Published: September 2017

The inventive hybridity of early modern ecclesiastical architecture in France mixes the traditional and local forms derived from the medieval past with neoclassical ones imported from Italy and ultimately derived from antiquity. Although this combination of seemingly disparate styles generally characterizes sixteenth-century French churches, the flying buttresses of the Church of Sainte-Madeleine in Montargis remain exceptional in their classicizing reimagination of a conventional architectural typology. In Architectural Design as an Expression of Religious Tolerance: The Case of Sainte-Madeleine in Montargis, Maile Hutterer suggests that the unusual form of the Montargis buttresses derives from the political and religious circumstances of their creation. Calvinist Jacques Androuet du Cerceau I is the most likely designer of the Montargis buttresses, and they were constructed while Montargis was part of the holdings of Protestant sympathizer Renée de France. The designer's careful balancing of orthodoxy and heterodoxy paralleled Renée's carefully constructed position between Catholicism and Calvinism.
A Visual Imprint of Moving Air:
Authors: von Fischer Sabine
Published: September 2017

Prompted by an archival finding from the laboratory of Franz Max Osswald, Switzerland's first academic expert in applied acoustics, Sabine von Fischer explores the schlieren technique for photographing sound in sectional models. A Visual Imprint of Moving Air: Methods, Models, and Media in Architectural Sound Photography, ca. 1930 examines how images were used to communicate findings in the emerging discipline of architectural acoustics. In Osswald's persistent experiments in visualizing the invisible phenomena of sound, the social, the technical, and the aesthetic were inseparable. Using photography, Osswald adhered to the paradigm of mechanical objectivity, yet his visual experimenting with phenomena of spatial sound possibly demonstrates an awareness that the senses cannot be excluded from scientific methods. The shadows of moving air in the sound photographs make claims toward their scientific authority, their aesthetic appeal, and their social function as expert tools.