bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angleško-slovenski glosar virtualizacijske terminologije: usklajevanje tehničnega, terminološkega in organizacijskega dela
Authors: Štimec Marta , Cankar Matija
Published: February 2017

With the growing adoption of using virtual machines over physical hosts as a form of resource consolidation, The English-Slovene Glossary of Virtualization-related Terms encompassing management of virtual machines, cloud orchestration and data storage seemed like the next logical step.The Glossary of Virtualization-related Terms has been translated into Slovene and reviewed by experts in the fields of cloud computing, virtualization technologies and linguists. Close to 6000 terms had been localized for the Slovene market, using the advanced version of Poedit application – the editor for translating apps and websites. PoEdit automatically displays translation equivalents either from its own base (built-in translation memory) or from the base of previously translated words and phrases, which had been created and offered as opensource by other users. Based on these, it makes suggestions and, over time, learns enough to fill in frequently used strings. The translated text was then imported into its original page location – the Graphic User Interface (visible on buttons on the dashboard) of the customized ManageIQ Enterprise Virtualization Manager (EVM) software used by administrators of public and private clouds. Hence the main criterion was brevity and precision in transfering meaning across languages. This is where we encountered most problems – neologisms and existing words that acquire new meaning as a result of rapid development of virtualization technology. To avoid merely adding a suffix while the core of the word remains the same in Slovene (e.g. tenant, tenant-ov) and also to encourage further additions, comments or suggested changes the glossary has been made available on Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia.
Do modelled or satellite-based estimates of surface solar irradiance accurately describe its temporal variability?
Authors: Bengulescu Marc , Blanc Philippe , Boilley Alexandre , Wald Lucien
Published: February 2017

Abstract. This study investigates the characteristic time-scales of variability found in long-term time-series of daily means of estimates of surface solar irradiance (SSI). The study is performed at various levels to better understand the causes of variability in the SSI. First, the variability of the solar irradiance at the top of the atmosphere is scrutinized. Then, estimates of the SSI in cloud-free conditions as provided by the McClear model are dealt with, in order to reveal the influence of the clear atmosphere (aerosols, water vapour, etc.). Lastly, the role of clouds on variability is inferred by the analysis of in-situ measurements. A description of how the atmosphere affects SSI variability is thus obtained on a time-scale basis. The analysis is also performed with estimates of the SSI provided by the satellite-derived HelioClim-3 database and by two numerical weather re-analyses: ERA-Interim and MERRA2. It is found that HelioClim-3 estimates render an accurate picture of the variability found in ground measurements, not only globally, but also with respect to individual characteristic time-scales. On the contrary, the variability found in re-analyses correlates poorly with all scales of ground measurements variability.
A re-examination of the enigmatic Russian tetrapod Phreatophasma aenigmaticum and its evolutionary implications
Authors: Brocklehurst Neil , Fröbisch Jörg
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Phreatophasma aenigmaticum is a mysterious tetrapod from the earliest middle Permian of Russia, represented by a single femur. At various times since its original description it has been considered a therapsid synapsid, a pelycosaurian-grade synapsid from the family Caseidae, and most recently a seymouriamorph amphibian. Using up-to-date knowledge of the postcranial morphology and evolution of early synapsids, the specimen is re-evaluated and subjected to cladistic analysis. Seymouriamorph and therapsid affinities are rejected, and a caseid affinity is supported based on the deep intertrochanteric fossa; the widely spaced distal condyles; the short, robust femoral shaft; and the lack of a longitudinal ridge enclosing the posterior margin of the intertrochanteric fossa. When included in two cladistic matrices, the first a global analysis of basal synapsids and the second devoted to caseids, Phreatophasma is found to occupy a basal position within caseids, retaining plesiomorphic characters such as the lack of compression of the anterior condyle of the femur and the almost identical distal extent of the two condyles. The recognition of Phreatophasma as a basal caseid has great implications for the evolution and biogeography of this family. This is only the second example of a caseid from the palaeo-temperate region of Russia, and it is not closely related to the first (Ennatosaurus tecton), implying at least two distinct dispersal events from the palaeoequatorial to temperate latitudes. It also implies that a number of plesiomorphic characteristics of caseids, including small body size and a relatively long femur, were retained as late as the middle Permian, a time when caseids were otherwise represented by large herbivorous taxa.
Does objective cluster analysis serve as a useful precursor to seasonal
precipitation prediction at local scale? Application to western Ethiopia
Authors: Zhang Ying , Moges Semu , Block Paul
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Prediction of seasonal precipitation can provide actionable information to guide management of various sectoral activities. For instance, it is often translated into hydrological forecasts for better water resources management. However, many studies assume homogeneity in precipitation across an entire study region, which may prove ineffective for operational and local-level decisions, particularly for locations with high spatial variability. This study proposes advancing local-level seasonal precipitation predictions by first conditioning on regional-level predictions, as defined through objective cluster analysis, for western Ethiopia. To our knowledge, this is the first study predicting seasonal precipitation at high resolution in this region, where lives and livelihoods are vulnerable to precipitation variability given the high reliance on rain-fed agriculture and limited water resources infrastructure. The combination of objective cluster analysis, spatially high-resolution prediction of seasonal precipitation, and a modeling structure spanning statistical and dynamical approaches makes clear advances in prediction skill and resolution, as compared with previous studies.
Stable isotopes reveal evaporation dynamics at the soil-plant-atmosphere
interface of the critical zone
Authors: Sprenger Matthias , Tetzlaff Doerthe , Soulsby Chris
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Understanding the influence of vegetation on water storage and flux in the upper soil is crucial in assessing the consequences of climate and land use change. We sampled the upper 20 cm of podzolic soils at 5 cm intervals in four sites differing in their vegetation (Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) and heather (Calluna sp. and Erica Sp)) and aspect. The sites were located within the Bruntland Burn long-term experimental catchment in the Scottish Highlands; a low energy, wet environment. Sampling took place on 11 occasions between September 2015 and September 2016 to capture seasonal variability in isotope dynamics. The pore waters of soil samples were analysed for their isotopic composition (δ2H and δ18H) with the direct equilibration method. Our results show that the soil waters in the top soil are, despite the low potential evaporation rates in such northern latitudes, kinetically fractionated compared to the precipitation input throughout the year. This fractionation signal decreases within the upper 15 cm resulting in the top 5 cm being isotopically differentiated to the soil at 15–20 cm soil depth. There are significant differences in the fractionation signal between soils beneath heather and soils beneath Scots pine, with the latter being more pronounced. But again, this difference diminishes within the upper 15 cm of soil. The enrichment in heavy isotopes in the topsoil follows a seasonal hysteresis pattern, indicating a lag time between the fractionation signal in the soil and the increase/decrease of soil evaporation in spring/autumn. Based on the kinetic enrichment of the soil water isotopes, we estimated the soil evaporation losses to be about 5 and 10 % of the infiltrating water for soils beneath heather and Scots pine, respectively. The high sampling frequency in time (monthly) and depth (5 cm intervals) revealed high temporal and spatial variability of the isotopic composition of soil waters, which can be critical, when using stable isotopes as tracers to assess plant water uptake patterns within the critical zone or applying them to calibrate tracer-aided hydrological models either at the plot to the catchment scale.
Network-based study of Lagrangian transport and mixing
Authors: Padberg-Gehle Kathrin , Schneide Christiane
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Transport and mixing processes in fluid flows are crucially influenced by coherent structures and the characterization of these Lagrangian objects is a topic of intense current research. While established mathematical approaches such as variational or transfer operator based schemes require full knowledge of the flow field or at least high resolution trajectory data, this information may not be available in applications. Recently, different computational methods have been proposed to identify coherent behavior in flows directly from Lagrangian trajectory data. In this context, spatio-temporal clustering algorithms have been proven to be very effective for the extraction of coherent sets from sparse and possibly incomplete trajectory data. Inspired by these recent approaches, we consider an unweighted, undirected network, where Lagrangian particle trajectories serve as network nodes. A link is established between two nodes if the respective trajectories come close to each other at least once in the course of time. Classical graph concepts are then employed to analyze the resulting network. In particular, local network measures such as the node degree serve as indicators of highly mixing regions, whereas spectral graph partitioning schemes allow us to extract coherent sets. The proposed methodology is very fast to run and we demonstrate its applicability in two geophysical flows – the Bickley jet as well as the antarctic stratospheric polar vortex.
Liquidity Risk and Bank Performance: An Empirical Test for Tunisian Banks
Authors: Hakimi Abdelaziz , Zaghdoudi Khemais
Published: February 2017

An important part of banking literature was interested in the relationship between credit risk and bank performance. However, only few studies investigated the association between liquidity risk and bank performance. The aim of this paper is to study the effect of liquidity risk on the Tunisian bank performance. To this end, we used a sample of 10 Tunisian banks over the period 1990-2013. By applying panel data method, precisely random effect regression, results show that liquidity risk decreases significantly Tunisian bank performance. Also, findings indicate that international financial crisis and inflation act negatively and significantly on bank performance.
Evaluating safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of PICC securement by subcutaneously anchored stabilization device
Authors: Zerla Pietro Antonio , Canelli Antonio , Cerne Lidia , Caravella Giuseppe , Gilardini Alessandra , De Luca Giuseppe , Aricisteanu Ana Maria , Venezia Raffaele
Published: February 2017

Purpose

In recent years, a large variety of medical devices has become available. Every device must be efficient, safe and cost effective, but it is not enough to use it properly without considering the environment in which it will be employed. We applied this kind of analysis to subcutaneously anchored sutureless devices (SAS).

Methods

This is a one-center prospective observational study on safety, effectiveness and cost effectiveness of an SAS device (SecurAcath, Interrad) for securement of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) in 30 adult cancer patients with treatment expected to be >60 days.

Results

During 4963 catheter days and after 709 dressing changes (documented by 373 pictures), the use of SAS was associated with no episode of PICC dislodgement and a lower incidence of complications if compared to traditional securement devices. Insertion, management and removal of SAS were not associated with an increased pain perception by the patients. Cost effectiveness was particularly evident for long dwelling PICCs.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that SAS is a highly effective and cost-effective method for securement of medium- to long-term PICCs with expected duration longer than 30 days. The introduction of SAS had a positive impact on our healthcare organization.
Cinco modelos de adjudicação administrativa (justiça administrativa)
Authors: Asimow Michael
Published: February 2017

Regimes regulatórios e de distribuição de benefícios ocasionam um grande número de disputas individuais entre agências governamentais e particulares. Cada país precisa de um sistema de adjudicação administrativa para solucionar essas disputas corretamente, com justiça e eficiência. Esses sistemas geralmente compreendem três fases – decisão inicial, reconsideração administrativa e revisão judicial. Entretanto, os detalhes dos vários sistemas empregados ao redor do mundo são impressionantemente diferentes, e muitos países tendem a investir a maior parte dos recursos adjudicatórios em apenas uma dessas três fases (e os particulares que têm uma disputa com o governo tendem a confiar mais em uma das fases do que nas outras duas). Este artigo propõe uma metodologia para a classificação desses sistemas. Ele identifica quatro variáveis importantes: agências com funções combinadas ou tribunals separados; procedimento inquisitório ou adversarial; revisão judicial que pode ser aberta à introdução de novas provas ou fechada a elas; e revisão judicial feita por cortes de competência comum ou especializada. O artigo identifica cinco modelos mais usados ao redor do mundo, que envolvem diferentes combinações dessas variáveis. Os Estados Unidos, por exemplo, utilizam agências com funções combinadas, procedimento adversarial e revisão judicial fechada procedida por cortes de competência comum. Por outro lado, o Reino Unido utiliza um tribunal independente para reconsiderar decisões iniciais das agências. A França utiliza o sistema de revisão judicial aberta efetuada por uma corte especializada. Cada um desses modelos pode oferecer decisões corretas e eficientes, preservando a justiça. Finalmente, o artigo discute transplantes de um sistema de adjudicação administrativa para outro. Existem vários exemplos de transplantes bem sucedidos. O artigo sugere que os Estados Unidos deveriam considerar a adoção de um tribunal para a seguridade social (à semelhança dos tribunals do Reino Unido e da Austrália) para substituir o atual sistema de adjudicação nos litígios envolvendo a seguridade social.
Can it wait? A systematic review of immediate vs. delayed surgical repair of penile fractures
Authors: Wong Nathan Colin , Dason Shawn , Bansal Rahul K. , Davies Timothy O. , Braga Luis H.
Published: February 2017

Introduction: Penile fractures have classically been thought to require immediate surgical intervention; however, recent series have described acceptable outcomes with delayed repair. In this systematic review, we compared complication rates between immediate and delayed repair of penile fractures.Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, and Web of Science was performed with predefined search terms between 1974 and 2015. Titles and abstracts were screened prior to full-text review and quality appraisal by two independent investigators. Abstracted outcomes included postoperative erectile dysfunction (ED), tunical scar formation, and penile curvature. Only studies reporting a direct comparison of complications following immediate (<24 hours from injury to presentation/surgery) and delayed (>24 hours) repair of penile fractures were included.Results: A total of 12 studies met inclusion criteria. All were retrospective, observational studies of low or moderate methodological quality. Of the reported 502 patients, 391 underwent immediate repair and 111 delayed repair. In the immediate repair group, the percent of patients with postoperative ED, tunical scars, and curvature were 6.6%, 5.4%, and 1.8%, respectively, while in the delayed group, the rates of ED, tunical scars, and curvature were 4.5% across the board. Rates of ED and tunical scar formation following immediate compared to delayed repair trended towards favouring immediate repair, but did not differ significantly, while rates of curvature significantly favoured immediate repair. However, cases of curvature were typically reported as mild and none affected sexual functioning.Conclusions: In this systematic review, we demonstrated that ED and tunical scar formation rates between immediate and delayed repair of penile fractures were statistically similar, while immediate repair had a lower rate of penile curvature. Although this suggests that a brief delay in repair may be acceptable in select patients, the results should be interpreted with caution, as the included studies were of low or moderate methodological quality. Most importantly, this review highlights the deficiencies in the current penile fracture literature, setting the stage to improve the quality of future studies.
Evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients: Review of the literature and current guidelines
Authors: Aharony Shachar Moshe , Lam Ornella , Corcos Jacques
Published: February 2017

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a unique neurological disease with a broad spectrum of clinical presentations that are time- and disease course-related. MS plaque location (intracranial and/or spinal) is a key feature in the pathophysiology of disease-related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The prevalence of these symptoms in MS patients is very high, with nearly 90% of them experiencing some degree of voiding dysfunction and/or incontinence. LUTS rarely present as primary MS manifestations and usually appear 6–8 years after the initial diagnosis. Symptom severity usually correlates with the disability status of patients. Patient assessment comprises clinical and advanced investigations. Each patient should be evaluated uniquely, after taking into account his/her symptoms, disease course and length, comorbidities, physical status, and medications. Basic investigation includes detailed history-taking, physical examination, and post-void residual volume measurement. Advanced evaluation consists of imaging and specific testing, with pivotal importance on urodynamic study.
Initial single-centre Canadian experience with 18F-fluoromethylcholine positron emission tomography-computed tomography (18F-FCH PET/ CT) for biochemical recurrence in prostate cancer patients initially treated with curative intent
Authors: Gauvin Simon , Cerantola Yannick , Haberer Eléonore , Pelsser Vincent , Probst Stephan , Bladou Franck , Anidjar Maurice
Published: February 2017

Introduction: We sought to determine predictive factors (patient and prostate- specific antigen [PSA] characteristics) for 18F-fluoromethylcholine positron emission tomography-computed tomography (18F-FCH PET/ CT) positivity in the context of biochemical recurrence after local treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) with curative intent.Methods: This is a retrospective study including 60 18F-FCH PET/ CT scans of patients with biochemical recurrence after initial radical prostatectomy (RP), external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), or focal high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) with curative intent. The results were compared to findings on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), bone scan (BS), and histological analysis when available. Univariate analysis was performed to correlate results with patient characteristics.Results: Thirty-eight (63.3%) scans were positive, 17 (28.3%) negative, and 5 (8.3%) equivocal. Of the positive scans, 16 demonstrated local recurrence, 12 regional/distant lymph nodes, five bone metastasis, and five local and distant recurrences. Among the 22 PET/CTs showing metastasis, conventional imaging was performed in 16 patients (72.7%). Of these, it demonstrated the lesion(s) found on PET/CT in eight patients (50.0%), was negative in seven (43.8%), and equivocal in one (6.3%). The trigger PSA (p=0.04), prostate-specific antigen velocity (PSAV) (p=0.03), and prostate-specific antigen doubling time (PSADT) (p=0.046) were significantly different when comparing positive and negative scans. Patients with positive scans were more likely to have received EBRT initially (odds ratio [OR] 11.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.2‒55.3). A trigger PSA of 2.6 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 65% for a positive scan. PET/CT changed the clinical management plan in 17 patients (28.3%).Conclusions: 18F-FCH PET/CT demonstrates a high detection rate for local and distant recurrences after localized PCa treatment. A trigger PSA above 2.6 ng/mL seems optimal for appropriate patient selection.
Supplementary data: Chemoradiotherapy in octogenarians as primary treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer
Authors: McPherson Victor A. , Rodrigues George , Bauman Glenn , Winquist Eric , Chin Joseph , Izawa Jonathan , Potvin Kylea , Ernst Scott , Venkatesan Varagur , Sexton Tracy , Ahmad Belal , Power Nicholas
Published: February 2017

N/A
An Empirical Study about Customer Preferences of Retail Sellers’ Qualifications
Authors: Salamah Najah Hassan
Published: February 2017

The purpose behind the study was to analyze the skills and behaviors required by Saudi retail sellers in developing interest of the consumers towards purchasing from retail stores. The sample size of 384 participants has been considered for data collection. Descriptive statistics and frequencies have been used to generate and analyze the data. Results have indicated that majority of respondents embarked on retail shops with Saudi sales men, because they were characterized by truthfulness, honesty, and patience. Moreover, approximately 96.10% of respondents gave preference to the retail shops, which were managed by properly trained Saudi seller. It has been observed that it is important to consider that Saudi seller should possess the qualities of patience, faithfulness, seriousness in work, while recruiting, and appointing them. The importance of qualities, which should be possessed by seller, has been highlighted through outcomes. Moreover, the emphasis is given to provide training to the seller for enhancing their selling skills and capabilities.
The Internal Auditing Procedures Effectiveness in the Jordanian Commercial Banks
Authors: Amoush Arwa H.
Published: February 2017

This study aims at evaluating and investigating the effectiveness of the internal auditing procedures in the Jordanian commercial banks through evaluating auditing procedures used in the commercial banks in Jordan and evaluating the role of the board of directors in achieving this effectiveness. Moreover, this study aims at investigating the internal auditing program used in the banks to check the availability of the risk –based auditing program and sufficient degree of independence for the internal auditor in these banks.The study’s main hypothesis was: “the internal auditing procedures in the Jordanian commercial banks do not include the effectiveness of the internal auditing profession” and there were other four sub-hypotheses. The descriptive approach was used. A questionnaire consisted of 48 items was prepared and distributed to 130 internal auditors in the commercial banks representing 248 internal auditors. Only 104 questionnaires were valid for analysis out of 120 questionnaires that were retrieved.Data were collected and analyzed statistically. Results revealed that the internal auditing program used in the commercial banks included procedures that achieve internal auditing procedures and the role of the board of directors ensured the effectiveness of the internal auditing in the information technology. Additionally, results showed that the internal auditing program included risk based auditing program and the internal auditing procedures ensure the internal auditor’s independence. The study recommended the necessity to enhance the current procedures followed in the internal auditing implementation for its effectiveness and the necessity to clarify the internal controls and its levels to ensure the success of the auditing program.
Multi-templated Pb-Zn-Hg Ion Imprinted Polymer for the Selective and Simultaneous Removal of Toxic Metallic Ions from Wastewater
Authors: Stevens Morlu G. F. , Batlokwa Bareki S.
Published: February 2017

A multi-templated Pb-Zn-Hg ion imprinted polymer was synthesized to demonstrate the selective and simultaneous removal of the named targeted ions. Molecular Imprinting Technology was employed, guided by thermal bulk polymerization method, methacrylic acid as the functional monomer and ethylene glycol dimethylacrylate as crosslinking agent in the presence of the initiator azobisisobutyronitrile; Pb(II), Zn(II) and Hg(II) ions as template ions, and 1,10-phenanthroline as the complexing agent. Rigorous, optimal template removal method was employed. Physical and chemical properties of the sorbent were investigated using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction and Atomic Force Microscopy. Operational parameters: time, pH and sorbent dosage for the rebinding batch experiments were optimized and found to be 15 min, 7.5 and 666.7 mg/L respectively. Percentage recoveries of the removed targeted ions from spiked samples were: 92.14 ± 0.16%, 106.09 ± 0.17% and 99.86 ± 0.04%. The synthesized sorbents showed good selectivity towards the targeted metal ion by removing 90% - 98% of the templated ions as compared to 58% - 62% of the competitive ions.
Examination of the View of John Burton Concerning the Relationship between Abrogation and Collection of the Qurʾān
Authors: Purrostami Hamed
Published: February 2017

The British Qurʾānic researcher, John Burton, believes that the extant Qurʾān was organised and approved by the Prophet of Islam himself. The role of the Prophet of Islam in collection and promulgation of the Qurʾān was negated in favour of the concept of abrogation. Abrogation of both wording and ruling and abrogation of wording, but not of ruling are ideas fabricated by Muslim jurists attempting to base their juristic decrees on the Qurʾān even though the Qurʾānic text lacked any reference to such decrees. If the Prophet of Islam had, in fact, edited, checked, and promulgated the Qurʾānic document, jurists could no longer speak of such omissions or abrogations of texts in the extant Qurʾān. Their solution was to falsify traditions in order to exclude the Prophet of Islam from the history of collection of the Qurʾānic text, suspending such collection until after his death. John Burton’s treatment of the relationship between abrogation and collection of the Qurʾān demonstrates the rigour of his research in Qurʾānic and Islamic sources. On the basis of his book, traditions dealing with collection of the Qurʾān developed in the third century AH. One thing he did not consider was whether historical evidence confirms his depiction of the development of these traditions.
Feed Efficiency Estimates in Cattle: The Economic and Environmental Impacts of Reranking
Authors: Boaitey Albert , Goddard Ellen , Mohapatra Sandeep , Crowley John
Published: February 2017

This paper proposes the application of hierarchical models to the assessment of feed efficiency in beef cattle. Using a large dataset comprising 5600 cattle assembled from different experimental studies, feed efficiency rankings of cattle were estimated using the proposed approach. This was compared to more commonly used linear, and nonlinear estimators. A phenotypic selection scheme that selects cattle at the means of different percentiles was developed to illustrate potential economic and environmental outcomes resulting from changes in feed efficiency rankings. The former involved the specification of a multi-year stochastic farm simulation model. In general, our results show that improved feed efficiency is associated with positive economic and environmental benefits. A unit reduction in feed intake (kg as fed/day) is associated with an average increase of $13.23 in net returns and 33.46 tonnes reduction in emission at the end of the feeding period. We also find that feed efficiency ranking of cattle is sensitive to estimation approach. The within percentile mean estimates of the hierarchical model were comparable to the conventional linear estimator. There were, however, deviations at the tails of feed efficiency distributions where selection is most likely to occur.
A Rare Case of Osteomyelitis Caused by Haemophilus Parainfluenzae
Authors: Cobo Fernando , Jiménez Gemma , Rodríguez-Granger Javier , Sampedro Antonio , Aliaga-Martínez Luis
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Haemophilus parainfluenzae is a rare cause of bone and joint infections. We report a case of calcaneal osteomyelitis due to this microorganism with a review of all published. A 23-year-old woman presented with a 1-month history of pain and inflammation in the calcaneus area. Osteomyelitis was suspected at this location based on computed tomography images. Culture of six bone biopsies and surrounding tissue resulted in the isolation of H. parainfluenzae. Surgical drainage and debridement was performed, and antibiotic treatment was prescribed, resolving the infection.
Modelling of the Interdependence Between Speed and Traffic Flow Density. A Neuro – Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Davidović Branko , Jovanović Aleksandar
Published: February 2017

The speed-traffic flow density interdependence diagram has a number of variations, starting with the theoretical model, through various empirical models that were developed and models based on actual research done on traffic flow. The functional interdependence is obtained using the Sugeno fuzzy logic system, where representative values proposed in HCM 2010 have been adopted as parameters of output association functions. Subsequently the neural network is trained based on actual traffic flow data, which by adjusting the association function of the fuzzy logic system yields an output form of the basic traffic flow diagram. It was noticed that this hybrid expert system produces better output results by applying the “subtractive clustering“ method on data that are used for training a neural network. Finally, the model was tested on several input data groups, and the interdependence between speed and traffic flow density is shown in graphical form.
KORUPCIJA U SVJETLU TRANZICIJSKIH I DEMOKRATSKIH PROCESA U BOSNI I HERCEGOVINI
Authors: Aladžić Milanko
Published: February 2017

Korupcija je stara koliko i organizovano ljudsko društvo i prisutna je u svim drţavama i sistemima i svi, sa manje ili više uspjeha bore se protiv ove pošasti. Nesporna je ĉinjenica da ona danas predstavlja jedno od gorućih pitanja modernog doba, kako razvijenih, tako i nerazvijenih zemalja. Nivo korupcije je razliĉit u svakom društvu. Razlika je samo u tome što se u razvijenim i pravno ureĊenim zemljama korupcija lakše kontroliše jer se vrši sistematska borba protiv nje, dok u zemljama u tranziciji, u kojoj se nalazi i Bosna i Hercegovina, ona je postala sastavni dio opšteg društvenog stanja i tzv. sistemska bolest odnosno izraz vladavine korumpirane politike. Zemlje u tranziciji su posebno osjetljive na korupciju, prvenstveno zbog toga što prolaze kroz fazu institucionalne rekonstrukcije, kada dolazi do bitnih izmjena pravila koja odreĊuju ponašanje ekonomskih i politiĉkih aktera u zemlji.95 Naime, u takvim zemljama dolazi do naglog napuštanja prethodnog društvenog sistema, prije nego što su izgraĊene i prihvaćene institucije novog društvenog sistema. Ovakva situacija, svakako, podstiĉe i stvara široke mogućnosti za korupciju jer javne instutucije ne funkcionišu prema jasnim i transparentnim pravilima i mehanizmima koji bi garantovali pozivanje na odgovornost pojedinaca i grupa.
TEORETSKE OSNOVE LIZINGA I NJEGOVA PRIMJENA NA PROSTORU BOSNE I HERCEGOVINE
Authors: Čatak Arnela
Published: February 2017

Ako u današnje vrijeme ţelimo poslovati na savremen naĉin, jedno od osnovnih pitanja koje postavi svaki generalni menadţer zajedno sa upravnim odborom kompanije je kako obezbijediti sredstva za nesmetano poslovanje, a da se pri tome ne ugroze likvidnost i solventnost preduzeća. Ĉesto je iz redovnog poslovanja jako teško obezbijediti finansijska sredstva, pa se ista pokušavaju pribaviti i iz drugih izvora kao što su kratkoroĉni i dugoroĉni izvori finansiranja, kao i iz nekih od specifiĉnih oblika. Jedan od specifiĉnih oblika jeste i finansiranje putem lizinga. Rijeĉ lizing (eng. leasing) je engleskog porijekla koja potiĉe od imenice „lease― što bi znaĉilo zakup ili najam. Lizing je u današnjem savremenom poslovanju sloţen, samostalan, raĉunovodstveni i pravni posao. Kod lizing finansiranja su uvijek tri subjekta u igri: dobavljaĉ opreme ili prodavac, lizing društvo (davalac lizinga) i primalac lizinga (korisnik predmetna lizinga). Nabavka osnovnih sredstava putem lizinga u odnosu na njihovu kupovinu daje primaocu lizinga odreĊene prednosti, ali ponekad moţe imati i negativan efekat za poslovanje.Kao što je već pomenuto, u radu će biti dat kratak osvrt na kratkoroĉne i dugoroĉne izvore finansiranja, pojam lizinga, njegovu praktiĉnu primjenu, analizu boniteta klijenta i procjenu rizika, te prednosti i nedostatke lizinga.
AGILNO PLANIRANJE I PROCJENJIVANJE
Authors: Savić Milenko , Marjanović Goran
Published: February 2017

U današnje vrijeme, kako velike tako i male, firme traţe naĉine za kvalitetniji odgovor zahtjevima trţišta što ih tjera na uvoĊenje metodologija u voĊenju projekata. Prilikom uvoĊenja metodologija, firme bi, u stvari, htjele biti konkurentnije na trţištu i profitabilnije, a to se popularno danas naziva agilne firme.Ako ţelimo da projekat ima imalo šansi za uspjeh, jedan od najbitnijih ĉinilaca za kojim moramo posegnuti je dobro razraditi metodologiju. Projektnih metodologija ima raznih, ugrubo ih moţemo podijeliti na dvije grupe: tradicionalna metodologija i agilna metodologija.
STRES KAO FAKTOR RIZIKA U NASTANKU DEPRESIJE NAKON MOŽDANOG UDARA
Authors: Vukadinović Sanja , Stojaković Milan , Stojanović Zlatan
Published: February 2017

Depresija u psihijatriji pokriva veliko područje mentalne patologije i predstavlja jedan odnajsloženijih medicinskih problema savremene medicine. Depresija nakon moždanog udara je česta iozbiljna komplikacija moždanog udara. Kao direktan uzročnik ove depresije navodi se i neka formapsihološkog odgovora na stresne situacije. Cilj rada bio je utvrđivanje uloge hroničnog stresa nanastanak depresije nakon moždanog udara. U ispitivanje je bilo uključeno 50 pacijenata u kontrolnojgrupi, kao i 50 pacijenata u eksperimentalnoj grupi, oba pola, starosti od 18 do 86 godina života,hospitalizovanih na Klinici za psihijatriju i Klinici za neurologiju, Univerzitetsko Kliničkog centra uBanjoj Luci, zbog klinički dijagnostikovanog akutnog moždanog udara. Metodom intervjua ispitivanaje učestalost hroničnih stresnih situacija unazad pola godine prije nastanka moždanog udara, aobuhvatali su sljedeće stresne situacije: smrt bračnog druga, člana porodice ili bliske osobe izokruženja, gubitak materijalnih dobara po bilo kom osnovu, stambeni problemi, saznanje o postojanjukomorbidnog oboljenja i sl.). U eksperimentalnoj grupi registrovan je veći broj ispitanika sahroničnim stresom pola godine prije nastanka bolesti, a stres prije moždanog udara je statističkiznačajno povezan sa nastankom depresivnog poremećaja (p<0.01). Najčešće kao razlog stresnesituacije je navođena smrt u porodičnom okruženju i bolest (kod 60%) pacijenata u eksperimentalnojgrupi. Veliki negativni životni događaji, nastali unazad šest mjeseci od nastanka moždanog udara,navode se kao faktor rizika za nastanak depresije nakon moždanog udara.
PERSONALNE PSIHOLOŠKE REAKCIJE KOD PACIJENATA NA DIJALIZI
Authors: Novaković Milan , Marić-Burmazević Joana , Savković Dragan , Stojaković Milan , Vukadinović-Stojanović Sanja , Matijević Slobodanka , Stojanović Zlatan
Published: February 2017

UVOD: Poremećaj ličnosti (PL) uključuje klinički značajna stanja i obrasce ponašanja, koja težetrajnosti i izraz su karakterističnog životnog stila osobe i odnosa ka drugima.CILJ: Procijeniti da li su PL češći kod pacijenata sa balkanskom endemskom nefropatijom (BEN)nego kod pacijenata sa drugim oboljenjima koja rezultiraju kao hronična renalna insuficijencija(HRI) i koji su na dijalizi u Bosni i Hercegovini (BiH).METODE: U radu je ispitano 753 pacijenta na dijalizi u dva uzorka: pacijenti sa BEN - N15grupa (N = 348) i kontrolna grupa oboljenja - N18. Rad je muliticentrična, longitudinalna studijau periodu: 01.01.2003. - 31.12.2012. godine. Statistika je urađena multivarijantnom analizom:Upitnik Renalnog registra BiH i psihološki testovi: osobina ličnosti (EPQ), Beckov testanksioznosti (BAI) i Hamiltonova skala depresivnosti (HDRS).REZULTATI: Multivarijatna analiza izdvaja u BEN grupi izbjegavanje dijalize [r = 0.693, OR =1.486 (95%), CI = 0.813-0.950, P = 0.008]. PL u BEN grupi je 11.92% [r = 1.150.0, r = 1.115(95%), CI = 0.670-0.730, P = 0.001]. U kontrolnoj grupi izbjegavanje dijalize je [r = 0.328, OR =1.380 (95%), CI = 0.850-2.250, P = 0.067], a PL je 9.37% od dijaliziranih pacijenata [r = 0.780,OR = 0.970 (95%), CI = 0.710-0.920, P = 0.001].ZAKLJUČAK: Pacijenti sa BEN žive u sjevero-istočnom dijelu BiH (83.7%) u kući, ruralnomnaselju što određuje endemiju renalnih bolesnika. PL kod pacijenata sa BEN su izraženiji uodnosu na ostale pacijente sa HRI i vežu se za endemijske odlike življenja, uz mogućnosthereditarnih uticaja.
INTERNET ZAVISNOST MEĐU STUDENTIMA MEDICINSKOG I PRAVNOG FAKULTETA UNIVERZITETA U BANJOJ LUCI
Authors: Stajić Mladen , Ilić Ivana
Published: February 2017

CILJ ISTRAŽIVANJA: Osnovni cilj sprovedenog istraživanja je ispitivanje učestalostiinternet zavisnosti među studentima Medicinskog i Pravnog fakulteta Univerziteta uBanjaluci.METODE: U ispitivanju je korišćen standardizovani test za ispitivanje internet zavisnosti drKimberly Young (IAT). Testiranje je sprovedeno anonimno, uz informisani pristanak, nad147 studenata Medicinskog (75) i Pravnog (72) fakulteta.REZULTATI: Istraživanje je pokazalo da prema je rezultatima IAT-a, od 75 studenataMedicinskog fakulteta, njih 19 (25.3%) zavisno od interneta. Od toga, 17 studenata (22.7%)ima blagi stepen, dok njih dvoje (2.67%) ima srednji stepen zavisnosti od interneta. Nemamedicinara sa visokim stepenom ove zavisnosti. Veći postotak studenata Pravnog fakulteta jeinternet zavisno: 35 studenata (48.6%). Od ukupnog broja njih 30 (41.7%) ima blagi stepenzavisnosti, 4 (5.56%) srednji stepen, dok 1 budući pravnik (1.39%) ima visok stepen internetzavisnosti.
Human Nup98 regulates the localization and activity of DExH/D-box helicase DHX9
Authors: Capitanio Juliana S , Montpetit Ben , Wozniak Richard W
Published: February 2017

Beyond their role at nuclear pore complexes, some nucleoporins function in the nucleoplasm. One such nucleoporin, Nup98, binds chromatin and regulates gene expression. To gain insight into how Nup98 contributes to this process, we focused on identifying novel binding partners and understanding the significance of these interactions. Here we report on the identification of the DExH/D-box helicase DHX9 as an intranuclear Nup98 binding partner. Various results, including in vitro assays, show that the FG/GLFG region of Nup98 binds to N- and C-terminal regions of DHX9 in an RNA facilitated manner. Importantly, binding of Nup98 stimulates the ATPase activity of DHX9, and a transcriptional reporter assay suggests Nup98 supports DHX9-stimulated transcription. Consistent with these observations, our analysis revealed that Nup98 and DHX9 bind interdependently to similar gene loci and their transcripts. Based on our results, we propose that Nup98 functions as a co-factor that regulates DHX9 and, potentially, other RNA helicases.
De-repression of the RAC activator ELMO1 in cancer stem cells drives progression of TGFβ-deficient squamous cell carcinoma from transition zones
Authors: McCauley Heather A , Chevrier Véronique , Birnbaum Daniel , Guasch Géraldine
Published: February 2017

Squamous cell carcinomas occurring at transition zones are highly malignant tumors with poor prognosis. The identity of the cell population and the signaling pathways involved in the progression of transition zone squamous cell carcinoma are poorly understood, hence representing limited options for targeted therapies. Here, we identify a highly tumorigenic cancer stem cell population in a mouse model of transitional epithelial carcinoma and uncover a novel mechanism by which loss of TGFβ receptor II (Tgfbr2) mediates invasion and metastasis through de-repression of ELMO1, a RAC-activating guanine exchange factor, specifically in cancer stem cells of transition zone tumors. We identify ELMO1 as a novel target of TGFβ signaling and show that restoration of Tgfbr2 results in a complete block of ELMO1 in vivo. Knocking down Elmo1 impairs metastasis of carcinoma cells to the lung, thereby providing insights into the mechanisms of progression of Tgfbr2-deficient invasive transition zone squamous cell carcinoma.
E-government without E-democracy in the case of Vietnam: Transparency has been a sham?
Authors: Van Long Tran , Trieu Hoa Nguyen , Thi Anh Nguyen
Published: February 2017

For over decade, Vietnam has made many efforts to promote e-government and improve efficiency and effectiveness of its public administration. As a result, the administrative system becomes more transparent time after time. However, E-democracy does not go hand in hand with e-government in the case of Vietnam wherein a non-democratic government has to strike the balance between economic and political openness. This paper aims to shed more light on a case of an authoritarian regime in the path from e-government to e-democracy. This is such a long, tough, and rocky journey linked with democratization in an authoritarian regime.
ZKSCAN1 gene and its related circular RNA (circZKSCAN1) both inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth, migration, and invasion but through different signaling pathways
Authors: Yao Zhicheng , Luo Jingyan , Hu Kunpeng , Lin Jizong , Huang He , Wang Qiangliang , Zhang Peng , Xiong Zhiyong , He Chonghua , Huang Zejian , Liu Bo , Yang Yang
Published: February 2017

There is increasing evidence that circular RNA (circRNA) are involved in cancer development, but the regulation and function of human circRNA remain largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that ZKSCAN1, a zinc finger family gene, is expressed in both linear and circular (circZKSCAN1) forms of RNA in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and cell lines. Here, we analyzed a cohort of 102 patients and found that expression of both ZKSCAN1mRNA and circZKSCAN1 was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the HCC samples compared with that in matched adjacent nontumorous tissues by reverse transcription PCR (RT‐PCR). The low expression level of ZKSCAN1 was only associated with tumor size (P = 0.032), while the cirZKSCAN1 levels varied in patients with different tumor numbers (P < 0.01), cirrhosis (P = 0.031), vascular invasion (P = 0.002), or microscopic vascular invasion (P = 0.002), as well as with the tumor grade (P < 0.001). Silencing both ZKSCAN1mRNA and circZKSCAN1 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In contrast, overexpression of both forms of RNA repressed HCC progression in vivo and in vitro. Silencing or overexpression of both forms of RNA did not interfere with each other. RNA‐seq revealed a very different molecular basis for the observed effects; ZKSCAN1mRNA mainly regulated cellular metabolism, while circZKSCAN1 mediated several cancer‐related signaling pathways, suggesting a nonredundant role for ZKSCAN1mRNA and circRNA. In conclusion, our results revealed two post‐translational products (ZKSCAN1mRNA and circZKSCAN1) that cooperated closely with one another to inhibit growth, migration, and invasion of HCC. cirZKSCAN1 might be a useful marker for the diagnosis of HCC.
Olivine fabrics and tectonic evolution of fore‐arc mantles: A natural perspective from the Songshugou dunite and harzburgite in the Qinling orogenic belt, central China
Authors: Cao Yi , Jung Haemyeong , Song Shuguang
Published: February 2017

To advance our understanding of the deformation characteristics, rheological behaviors, and tectonic evolution of the fore‐arc lithospheric mantle, we analyzed mineral fabrics for a large spinel‐bearing ultramafic massif in the Songshugou area in the Qinling orogenic belt, central China. In the spinel‐poor coarse‐grained dunite, stronger A/D‐type and weaker C‐type‐like fabrics were found, whereas the spinel‐rich coarse‐grained dunite displayed a comparatively stronger B‐type‐like fabric. These olivine fabrics are high‐T fabrics influenced by the presence of melt, in which B and C‐type‐like fabrics are inferred to be produced by melt‐assisted grain boundary sliding during synkinematic high‐T melt‐rock reactions. In contrast, the spinel‐poor porphyroclastic and fine‐grained dunites present weak AG and B‐type‐like fabrics, respectively. Their olivine fabrics (low‐T fabrics) are inferred to transform from A/D‐type fabric in their coarse‐grained counterparts possibly through mylonitization process assisted by low‐T fluid‐rock reactions, during which strain was accommodated by the fluid‐enhanced dislocation slip and/or fluid‐assisted grain boundary sliding processes. Combined with the tectonic results of our previous work, the high‐T olivine fabrics are probably related to a young and warm fore‐arc mantle where intense partial melting and high‐T boninitic melt‐rock reactions prevalently occurred, whereas the low‐T olivine fabrics likely reflect the evolving tectonic settings through the cooling fore‐arc mantle to a continental lower crust in a collisional orogeny where low‐T fluid‐rock reactions were pervasively activated. These low‐T olivine fabrics imply that though cold, the fore‐arc lithospheric mantle may be locally weak (∼20–30 MPa), allowing ductile deformation to occur at a geologically significant strain rate.
Effect of Polymer–Fullerene Interaction on the Dielectric Properties of the Blend
Authors: Constantinou Iordania , Yi Xueping , Shewmon Nathan T. , Klump Erik D. , Peng Cheng , Garakyaraghi Sofia , Lo Chi Kin , Reynolds John R. , Castellano Felix N. , So Franky
Published: February 2017

It is commonly believed that large dielectric constants are required for efficient charge separation in polymer photovoltaic devices. However, many polymers used in high‐performance solar cells do not possess high dielectric constants. In this work, the effect of polymer–fullerene interactions on the dielectric environment of the active layer blend and the device performance for several donor–acceptor conjugated polymer systems is investigated. It is found that, while none of the high‐performing polymers studied has a dielectric constant value larger than 3, all polymer–fullerene blends have a significantly larger dielectric constant compared to their pristine constituents. Additionally, it is found that the blend dielectric constant reaches a maximum value in fully optimized devices. Using PTB7:PC71BM blends as an example, it is showed that, in addition to a small increase in the dielectric constant, devices fabricated using the optimum processing additive concentration exhibit almost 3X larger excited state polarizability. This large increase in excited state polarizability results in a substantial difference in short‐circuit current and ultimately device performance. The results show that the excited state polarizability critically depends on polymer–fullerene interactions, and can be a leading indicator of device performance for a given material system.