bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Is Dependent on an IL-18 Receptor Signaling Pathway
Authors: Nozaki Yuji , Hino Shoichi , Ri Jinhai , Sakai Kenji , Nagare Yasuaki , Kawanishi Mai , Niki Kaoru , Funauchi Masanori , Matsumura Itaru
Published: December 2017

The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-18 is an important mediator of the organ failure induced by endotoxemia. IL-18 (known as an interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) inducing factor), and other inflammatory cytokines have important roles in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). We investigated the effect of inflammatory cytokines and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression, an event that is accompanied by an influx of monocytes, including CD4+ T cells and antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in IL-18Rα knockout (KO) mice and wild-type (WT) mice after LPS injection. In the acute advanced phase, the IL-18Rα KO mice showed a higher survival rate and a suppressed increase of blood urea nitrogen, increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ and IL-18, the infiltration of CD4+ T cells and the expression of kidney injury molecule-1 as an AKI marker. In that phase, the renal mRNA expression of the M1 macrophage phenotype and C-C chemokine receptor type 7 as the maturation marker of dendritic cells (DCs) was also significantly decreased in the IL-18Rα KO mice, although there were small numbers of F4/80+ cells and DCs in the kidney. Conversely, there were no significant differences in the expressions of mRNA and protein TLR4 after LPS injection between the WT and IL-18Rα KO groups. Our results demonstrated that the IL-18Rα-mediated signaling pathway plays critical roles in CD4+ T cells and APCs and responded more quickly to IFN-γ and IL-18 than TLR4 stimulation in the pathogenesis of LPS-induced AKI.
Iron Overload and Chelation Therapy in Non-Transfusion Dependent Thalassemia
Authors: Bou-Fakhredin Rayan , Bazarbachi Abdul-Hamid , Chaya Bachar , Sleiman Joseph , Cappellini Maria , Taher Ali
Published: December 2017

Iron overload (IOL) due to increased intestinal iron absorption constitutes a major clinical problem in patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT), which is a cumulative process with advancing age. Current models for iron metabolism in patients with NTDT suggest that suppression of serum hepcidin leads to an increase in iron absorption and subsequent release of iron from the reticuloendothelial system, leading to depletion of macrophage iron, relatively low levels of serum ferritin, and liver iron loading. The consequences of IOL in patients with NTDT are multiple and multifactorial. Accurate and reliable methods of diagnosis and monitoring of body iron levels are essential, and the method of choice for measuring iron accumulation will depend on the patient’s needs and on the available facilities. Iron chelation therapy (ICT) remains the backbone of NTDT management and is one of the most effective and practical ways of decreasing morbidity and mortality. The aim of this review is to describe the mechanism of IOL in NTDT, and the clinical complications that can develop as a result, in addition to the current and future therapeutic options available for the management of IOL in NTDT.
Second-Pass Assessment of Potential Exposure to Shoreline Change in New South Wales, Australia, Using a Sediment Compartments Framework
Authors: Kinsela Michael , Morris Bradley , Linklater Michelle , Hanslow David
Published: December 2017

The impacts of coastal erosion are expected to increase through the present century, and beyond, as accelerating global mean sea-level rise begins to enhance or dominate local shoreline dynamics. In many cases, beach (and shoreline) response to sea-level rise will not be limited to passive inundation, but may be amplified or moderated by sediment redistribution between the beach and the broader coastal sedimentary system. We describe a simple and scalable approach for estimating the potential for beach erosion and shoreline change on wave-dominated sandy beaches, using a coastal sediment compartments framework to parameterise the geomorphology and connectivity of sediment-sharing coastal systems. We apply the approach at regional and local scales in order to demonstrate the sensitivity of forecasts to the available data. The regional-scale application estimates potential present and future asset exposure to coastal erosion in New South Wales, Australia. The assessment suggests that shoreline recession due to sea-level rise could drive a steep increase in the number and distribution of asset exposure in the present century. The local-scale example demonstrates the potential sensitivity of erosion impacts to the distinctive coastal geomorphology of individual compartments. Our findings highlight that the benefits of applying a coastal sediment compartments framework increase with the coverage and detail of geomorphic data that is available to parameterise sediment-sharing systems and sediment budget principles. Such data is crucial to reducing uncertainty in forecasts by understanding the potential response of key sediment sources and sinks (e.g., the shoreface, estuaries) to sea-level rise in different settings.
A Wearable Textile 2D Touchpad Sensor Based on Screen-Printing Technology
Authors: Ferri Josue , Lidón-Roger Jose , Moreno Jorge , Martinez Gabriel , Garcia-Breijo Eduardo
Published: December 2017

Among many of the designs used in the detection of 2D gestures for portable technology, the touchpad is one of the most complex and with more functions to implement. Its development has undergone a great push due to its use in displays, but it is not widely used with other technologies. Its application on textiles could allow a wide range of applications in the field of medicine, sports, etc. Obtaining a flexible, robust touchpad with good response and low cost is one of the objectives of this work. A textile touchpad based on a diamond pattern design using screen printing technology has been developed. This technology is widely used in the textile industry and therefore does not require heavy investments. The developed prototypes were analyzed using a particular controller for projected capacitive technologies (pro-cap), which is the most used in gesture detection. Two different designs were used to obtain the best configuration, obtaining a good result in both cases.
Vibration Protection of a Famous Statue against Ambient and Earthquake Excitation Using A Tuned Inerter–Damper
Authors: Siami Ali , Cigada Alfredo , Karimi Hamid , Zappa Emanuele
Published: December 2017

This paper deals with the performance analysis of a vibration-isolation system for Michelangelo Buonarroti’s famous Ronadanini Pietà statue based on the monitoring and analysis of vibration signals. A tuned mass-damper–inerter is introduced in order to increase the effectiveness of the isolator in the horizontal direction. Specifically, a multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) model for the system, including non-linear terms, is proposed. The monitoring data of the structure inside the museum were utilized to update the MDOF model of this structure. Then, the effect of different parameters was analysed, and some modifications proposed to enhance the efficiency of the isolation system in its working condition. A combination of tuned mass-dampers (TMD) with an inerter is proposed to attain a considerable increase in the performance of the isolation system based on the main feature of the tuned mass-damper–inerter (TMDI), which can apply high apparent mass to a system without adding considerable real mass to the original system. Various performance functions are used to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed TMDI. It is shown that a significant effect of this passive method is to reduce the level of vibration in the updated model of this sensitive and valuable object.
Thermal and Antioxidant Properties of Polysaccharides Sequentially Extracted from Mulberry Leaves (Morus alba L.)
Authors: Liao Bu-Yan , Zhu Dan-Ye , Thakur Kiran , Li Ling , Zhang Jian-Guo , Wei Zhao-Jun
Published: December 2017

Polysaccharides from natural plant products are gaining considerable attention due to their multi-faceted health effects, as well their functional applications in food production. We reported the sequential extraction of mulberry leaf polysaccharides (MLPs) with hot buffer (HBSS), chelating agent (CHSS), dilute alkali (DASS) and concentrated alkali (CASS), in order to obtain polysaccharide fractions. Monosaccharide analysis proved that galactose (27.07%) and arabinose (25.99%) were the major sugars in HBSS, whereas arabinose (30.55%) was the major sugar in CHSS, and glucose was the major sugar in DASS (24.96%) and CASS (27.51%). The molecular weights of the polysaccharide fractions were 7.812 × 103 (HBSS), 3.279 × 103 (CHSS), 6.912 × 103 (DASS), and 1.408 × 103 kDa (CASS). HBSS and CASS showed the largest peak temperature and the highest endothermic enthalpy, respectively. Different antioxidant assays showed that the MLPs possessed appreciable antioxidant activities in a dose-dependent manner. At 5 mg/mL, HBSS and DASS possessed the largest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radical scavenging activity (96.82%). HBSS exhibited the highest reducing power, and DASS rendered the strongest ABTS radical scavenging activity (99.69%). CHSS performed the best hydroxyl radical scavenging activity (64.22%) and Fe2+-chelating ability (96.36%). Our results suggested that MLPs could be a promising source of natural antioxidants for use in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Modulation of the Selectivity in Anions Recognition Processes by Combining Hydrogen- and Halogen-Bonding Interactions
Authors: Zapata Fabiola , Benítez-Benítez Sergio , Sabater Paula , Caballero Antonio , Molina Pedro
Published: December 2017

Most of the halogen bonding receptors for anions described use halogen bonding binding sites solely in the anion recognition process; only a few examples report the study of anion receptors in which the halogen bonding interaction has been used in combination with any other non-covalent interaction. With the aims to extend the knowledge in the behaviour of this kind of mixed receptors, we report here the synthesis and the anion recognition and sensing properties of a new halogen- and hydrogen- bonding receptor which binds anions by the cooperation of both non-covalent interactions. Fluorescence studies showed that the behaviour observed in the anion recognition sensing is similar to the one previously described for the halogen analogue and is quite different to the hydrogen one. On the other hand, the association constants obtained by 1H-NMR data demonstrate that the mixed halogen- and hydrogen-bonding receptor is more selective for SO42− anion than the halogen or hydrogen analogues.
Zinc Ion Removal on Hybrid Pectin-Based Beads Containing Modified Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Waste
Authors: Jakóbik-Kolon Agata , Szybaj Adrianna , Mitko Krzysztof , Bok-Badura Joanna
Published: December 2017

A new hybrid sorbent in the form of round beads containing modified poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) waste immobilized in pectin and crosslinked with calcium ions was prepared. A previously obtained and characterized powdered poly(methyl methacrylate)–based sorbent was used. Batch and column studies on the new material’s sorption-desorption properties were performed. Two kinetic models (pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order) and three isotherms (Langmuir, Langmuir bisite and Freundlich) were used to describe the results. Breakthrough and elution curves were also obtained. Nitric, hydrochloric, and sulfuric acid of various concentrations were used in the desorption studies. Higher sorption affinity of zinc(II) ions to hybrid sorbent than to pectin alone, reflected by higher values of the Langmuir and Freundlich model parameters, was observed. The maximum sorption capacities, calculated based on the best-fitted models, were 50.2 mg/g (Langmuir bisite) and 42.2 mg/g (Langmuir) for hybrid and only pectin beads, respectively. The stripping of Zn ions using 0.1 M solutions of mineral acids was similarly effective in the case of both sorbents. The mass balance calculated for the column studies showed about 100% recovery of zinc in a sorption-desorption cycle. By applying the hybrid sorbent under the studied conditions it is possible to purify Zn in water to the level permitted by law and concentrate Zn(II) ions by about 60 times.
Increasing Antioxidant Activity and Protein Digestibility in Phaseolus vulgaris and Avena sativa by Fermentation with the Pleurotus ostreatus Fungus
Authors: Espinosa-Páez Edith , Alanis-Guzmán Ma. , Hernández-Luna Carlos , Báez-González Juan , Amaya-Guerra Carlos , Andrés-Grau Ana
Published: December 2017

The aim of the research was to determine the impact of fermentation with Pleurotus ostreatus on kidney beans, black beans, and oats. The results indicate that the fungus has a positive effect on the substrates when compared to the controls. The antioxidant activity (39.5% on kidney beans and 225% on oats in relation to the controls) and content of total polyphenols (kidney beans three times higher regarding the controls) increased significantly by the presence of the fungus mycelium, even after simulated digestion. There was a significant increase in protein digestibility (from 39.99 to 48.13% in black beans, 44.06 to 69.01% in kidney beans, and 63.25 to 70.01% in oats) and a decrease of antinutrient tannins (from 65.21 to 22.07 mg in black beans, 35.54 to 23.37 in kidney beans, and 55.67 to 28.11 in oats) as well as an increase in the contents of some essential amino acids. Overall, this fermentation treatment with Pleurotus ostreatus improved the nutritional quality of cereals and legumes, making them potential ingredients for the elaboration and/or fortification of foods for human nutrition.
Access to New Cytotoxic Quinone-Amino Acid Conjugates Linked through A Vinylic Spacer from 2-Acylnaphthoquinones and Methyl 3-Aminocrotonate
Authors: Valderrama Jaime , Garrido Joel , Delgado Virginia , Benites Julio , Theoduloz Cristina
Published: December 2017

The reaction of 2-acetyl- and 2-benzoyl-1,4-naphthoquinone with (Z)-methyl 3-(hydroxymethyl)aminocrotonate proceeds through a formal [3+3] process to yield the corresponding 1,2-dihydrobenzisoquinolinequinones in 63% and 72% yield, respectively. The reactions of 2-acyl-1,4-naphthoquinone with enaminones, derived from diverse l- and d-amino acid methyl esters, produced the corresponding naphthoquinone amino acids conjugates bonded through a vinyl spacer in the yields range 40–71%. The presence of not-separable isomers of the naphthoquinone amino acids conjugates in the 1H- and 13C-NMR spectra is explained by the existence of conformational isomers generated by hindered rotation of the substituent bonded to the quinone double bond. These new naphthoquinone amino acids conjugates were screened in vitro on normal and cancer cell lines and showed moderate cytotoxic activities.
Structure and Optical Properties of Titania-PDMS Hybrid Nanocomposites Prepared by In Situ Non-Aqueous Synthesis
Authors: Dalod Antoine , Grendal Ola , Blichfeld Anders , Furtula Vedran , Pérez Javier , Henriksen Lars , Grande Tor , Einarsrud Mari-Ann
Published: December 2017

Organic-inorganic hybrid materials are attractive due to the combination of properties from the two distinct types of materials. In this work, transparent titania-polydimethylsiloxane hybrid materials with up to 15.5 vol. % TiO2 content were prepared by an in situ non-aqueous method using titanium (IV) isopropoxide and hydroxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane as precursors. Spectroscopy (Fourier transform infrared, Raman, Ultraviolet-visible, ellipsometry) and small-angle X-ray scattering analysis allowed to describe in detail the structure and the optical properties of the nanocomposites. Titanium alkoxide was successfully used as a cross-linker and titania-like nanodomains with an average size of approximately 4 nm were shown to form during the process. The resulting hybrid nanocomposites exhibit high transparency and tunable refractive index from 1.42 up to 1.56, depending on the titania content.
Characterization of Chromatic Dispersion and Refractive Index of Polymer Optical Fibers
Authors: Ayesta Igor , Zubia Joseba , Arrue Jon , Illarramendi María , Azkune Mikel
Published: December 2017

The chromatic dispersion and the refractive index of poly(methyl methacrylate) polymer optical fibers (POFs) have been characterized in this work by using a tunable femtosecond laser and a Streak Camera. The characterization technique is based on the measurement of the time delays of light pulses propagating along POFs at different wavelengths. Polymer fibers of three different lengths made by two manufacturers have been employed for that purpose, and discrepancies lower than 3% have been obtained in all cases.
Performance Assessment of Tailored Split-Window Coefficients for the Retrieval of Lake Surface Water Temperature from AVHRR Satellite Data
Authors: Lieberherr Gian , Riffler Michael , Wunderle Stefan
Published: December 2017

Although lake surface water temperature (LSWT) is defined as an essential climate variable (ECV) within the global climate observing system (GCOS), current satellite-based retrieval techniques do not fulfill the GCOS accuracy requirements. The split-window (SW) retrieval method is well-established, and the split-window coefficients (SWC) are the key elements of its accuracy. Performances of SW depends on the degree of SWC customization with respect to its application, where accuracy increases when SWC is tailored for specific situations. In the literature, different SWC customization approaches have been investigated, however, no direct comparisons have been conducted among them. This paper presents the results of a sensitivity analysis to address this gap. We show that the performance of SWC is most sensitive to customizations for specific time-windows (Sensitivity Index SI of 0.85) or spatial extents (SI 0.27). Surprisingly, the study highlights that the use of separated SWC for daytime and night-time situations has limited impact (SI 0.10). The final validation with AVHRR satellite data showed that the subtle differences among different SWC customizations were not traceable to the final uncertainty of the LSWT product. Nevertheless, this study provides a basis to critically evaluate current assumptions regarding SWC generation by directly comparing the performance of multiple customization approaches for the first time.
High Spatial Resolution Visual Band Imagery Outperforms Medium Resolution Spectral Imagery for Ecosystem Assessment in the Semi-Arid Brazilian Sertão
Authors: Goldblatt Ran , Rivera Ballesteros Alexis , Burney Jennifer
Published: December 2017

Semi-arid ecosystems play a key role in global agricultural production, seasonal carbon cycle dynamics, and longer-run climate change. Because semi-arid landscapes are heterogeneous and often sparsely vegetated, repeated and large-scale ecosystem assessments of these regions have to date been impossible. Here, we assess the potential of high-spatial resolution visible band imagery for semi-arid ecosystem mapping. We use WorldView satellite imagery at 0.3–0.5 m resolution to develop a reference data set of nearly 10,000 labeled examples of three classes—trees, shrubs/grasses, and bare land—across 1000 km 2 of the semi-arid Sertão region of northeast Brazil. Using Google Earth Engine, we show that classification with low-spectral but high-spatial resolution input (WorldView) outperforms classification with the full spectral information available from Landsat 30 m resolution imagery as input. Classification with high spatial resolution input improves detection of sparse vegetation and distinction between trees and seasonal shrubs and grasses, two features which are lost at coarser spatial (but higher spectral) resolution input. Our total tree cover estimates for the study area disagree with recent estimates using other methods that may underestimate treecover because they confuse trees with seasonal vegetation (shrubs and grasses). This distinction is important for monitoring seasonal and long-run carbon cycle and ecosystem health. Our results suggest that newer remote sensing products that promise high frequency global coverage at high spatial but lower spectral resolution may offer new possibilities for direct monitoring of the world’s semi-arid ecosystems, and we provide methods that could be scaled to do so.
Effort and Reward Effects: Appreciation and Self-Rated Performance in e-Internships
Authors: Jeske Debora , Axtell Carolyn
Published: December 2017

As new work and internship options arise, educators, employers and students seek information about the learning benefits of these new arrangements. This is also the case in terms of e-internships. The purpose of this study was to assess the merit of the effort-reward imbalance model to understand appreciation and performance as reported by the e-interns (also known as virtual interns). The study involved a cross-sectional sample of e-interns. The sample was recruited using the snowball technique and two specialized internship portals. Participants were grouped into a number of conditions. Effort conditions depended on participants’ reported goal clarity and satisfaction with support. Reward conditions were determined based on the (un-)availability of training and payment in e-internships. When participants fell into high effort or low reward conditions, they reported lower perceived performance. They also felt less valued. The reverse pattern was observed when participants completed their internship under low effort and high reward conditions. By identifying conditions under which e-interns will report higher performance and appreciation, employers are provided with starting points for the design and reward practices. In addition, the results suggest that e-internships may share similar characteristics of traditional internships which may similarly vary in terms of the value and rewards they bring to interns.
The Child’s Voice in Determining Program Acceptability for a School-Based Mindfulness Intervention
Authors: McCabe Megan , Costello Shane , Roodenburg John
Published: December 2017

School-based mindfulness interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing mental health symptoms. However, comparatively little research has investigated the acceptability of these programs from the perspective of the children. Program acceptability underpins engagement, and more engaging programs are also more efficacious (Cowan & Sheridan, 2003; Mautone et al., 2009) yet there is little literature which has considered the acceptability of school-based mindfulness programs. To address this gap, semi-structured interviews were conducted with upper primary aged children (N = 30) who had participated in a six week mindfulness program in four Australian primary schools. Thematic analysis of interviews revealed children found the program to be acceptable. Children reported that they enjoyed doing the mindfulness program, would recommend it to others, and learned about relaxing as well as felt relaxed while doing the program. Children also highlighted the use of culturally appropriate teaching materials and possible stigmatisation as threats to the acceptability of the program. The results of the study support the acceptability of mindfulness programs in school settings, grounded in the unique perspective of the child.
Assessing the Value of Housing Schemes through Sustainable Return on Investment: A Path towards Sustainability-Led Evaluations?
Authors: Dean Kevin , Trillo Claudia , Bichard Erik
Published: December 2017

The 2016 United Nations (UN) New Urban Agenda clearly reaffirms the concept that sustainable cities require intertwined environmental and social sustainability. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11—“Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable”—sets (as a primary target) the provision of sufficient affordable housing. Despite the central role that housing plays in ensuring sustainability and the importance of both environmental and social pillars in ensuring sustainable development, current evaluative methods that support decision making on social housing interventions fail to capture all of the socio-environmental value contained in the UN SDG 11. This paper addresses the issue by demonstrating how Sustainable Return on Investment can successfully describe and analyse a range of externalities related to the sustainable value generated by social housing regeneration schemes. To achieve this goal, a single case study strategy has been chosen. Two extant projects—a high-rise housing scheme and an environmental-led program developed by City West Housing Trust (a nonprofit housing association based in the Manchester area)—have been assessed in order to monetise their social and environmental value through different methods. The findings show that, historically, the environmental and social value of regeneration schemes have been largely disregarded because of a gap in the evaluation methods, and that there is room for significant improvement for future evaluation exercises.
Prediction of CO2 Emission in China’s Power Generation Industry with Gauss Optimized Cuckoo Search Algorithm and Wavelet Neural Network Based on STIRPAT model with Ridge Regression
Authors: Zhao Weibo , Niu Dongxiao
Published: December 2017

Power generation industry is the key industry of carbon dioxide (CO2) emission in China. Assessing its future CO2 emissions is of great significance to the formulation and implementation of energy saving and emission reduction policies. Based on the Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence and Technology model (STIRPAT), the influencing factors analysis model of CO2 emission of power generation industry is established. The ridge regression (RR) method is used to estimate the historical data. In addition, a wavelet neural network (WNN) prediction model based on Cuckoo Search algorithm optimized by Gauss (GCS) is put forward to predict the factors in the STIRPAT model. Then, the predicted values are substituted into the regression model, and the CO2 emission estimation values of the power generation industry in China are obtained. It’s concluded that population, per capita Gross Domestic Product (GDP), standard coal consumption and thermal power specific gravity are the key factors affecting the CO2 emission from the power generation industry. Besides, the GCS-WNN prediction model has higher prediction accuracy, comparing with other models. Moreover, with the development of science and technology in the future, the CO2 emission growth in the power generation industry will gradually slow down according to the prediction results.
EVALUATION OF SECOND PILLAR PENSION FUNDS’ SUPPLY AND INVESTMENT STRATEGIES IN BALTICS
Authors: MEDAISKIS Teodoras , GUDAITIS Tadas
Published: December 2017

Pension accumulation companies in Baltics are allowed to offer any number of second pillar pension funds with different investment strategies. Funds are traditionally categorized by maximum limit of investments in equities. It shall help participants to choose the fund according to their risk aversion and age. However, no scientific research has been conducted to assess correctness of such a breakdown and to estimate the differences (if they exist) of pension funds assigned to distinct groups. The results show that there are limitations to the supply side of second pillar pension funds and to participants’ possibilities to select appropriate investment strategies over life-cycle. The findings from statistical analysis suggest that used classification of pension funds is not necessarily meaningful. Even if two funds belong to different categories, this does not mean that their investment strategies and results will differ significantly. It raises the need for stricter rules for setting pension funds’ investment strategies and linkage to age of participants in order to increase compatibility between supply of funds and participants’ needs over life-cycle.
PREDICTIVE POTENTIAL AND RISKS OF SELECTED BANKRUPTCY PREDICTION MODELS IN THE SLOVAK BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Authors: GAVUROVA Beata , PACKOVA Miroslava , MISANKOVA Maria , SMRCKA Lubos
Published: December 2017

In our study, we focused on the assessment of four bankruptcy prediction models, to figure out which model is most appropriate in the conditions of the Slovak business environment. Based on the previous research within the Slovak conditions, we set a portfolio of 4 models to be assessed: Altman model (1984), Ohlson model (1980), indexes IN01 and IN05 that were validated on the sample of 700 Slovak companies. Based on previous studies we expected that IN indexes are superior to Ohlson and Altman model. The excellency of our research lies in validation and assessing the accuracy of bankruptcy prediction models at three levels: the overall accuracy, accuracy of the bankruptcy prediction, and the non-bankruptcy prediction accuracy. This analytical structure enables to look at the topic more complexly and to increase the objectification of accuracy of analysed models. Based on the results, we showed that Ohlson model is not applicable to predict bankruptcy in the Slovak conditions as reached the lowest bankruptcy prediction ability even if has high non bankruptcy prediction ability. On the other hand, we have confirmed our expectation about the bankruptcy prediction ability of index IN05, that is proven to be superior to Ohlson and Altman model and so is the most appropriate model for Slovak business environment.
INNOVATIVE COMPONENT OF ECONOMIC SECURITY OF ENTERPRISES: A CASE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA
Authors: IANIOGLO Alina , POLAJEVA Tatjana
Published: December 2017

In modern conditions of unpredictability, issues of ensuring the economic security of enterprise become particularly important and innovations are a significant component. The article aims to advance the knowledge of economic security and to develop the methodology of ensuring the economic security of enterprise and its innovative component. To achieve this goal, the following methods were used: systematization, data collection, analysis, comparison and the inductive method. The system of ensuring economic security was developed and the mechanism of increasing the innovative activity of enterprises in developing countries was determined, on example of the Republic of Moldova. The presented research results are important for the development of economic science as they represent a systematization of different approaches to economic security with the focus on its innovative component. The developed system, with its main phases and proposed measures, may be implemented by the management in order to strengthen the innovative activity and the economic security of enterprises, taking into account the features of a specific industry and the environment of a specific country.
ONLINE GROCERY RETAILING IN GERMANY: AN EXPLORATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: SEITZ Christian , POKRIVČÁK Ján , TÓTH Marián , PLEVNÝ Miroslav
Published: December 2017

The paper focuses on the German food retailing industry with its market characteristics and the status quo of online food retailing in Germany by analysing data from market research institutes and consumer direct questionnaire. The paper examines the consumers’ perceptions of online as well as offline grocery shopping. As a result, an online grocery model was created using PLS-SEM modelling. It illustrates all major success factors related to the consumer’s willingness to shop for groceries online in Germany. The main factors influencing the willingness to shop for groceries online are awareness of benefits, need for more convenience, and change of the lack of trust in the new distribution channel. We identified some consumer groups that are more open to online shopping as they benefit more from online grocery shopping. Especially working mothers and young professionals are the consumer groups with a high potential interest.
DYNAMIC MODELING FOR APARTMENT BRAND MANAGEMENT IN THE HOUSING MARKET
Authors: CHOI Minji , PARK Moonseo , LEE Hyun-Soo , HWANG Sungjoo
Published: December 2017

A company’s brand can be considered its most valuable asset. The known impact of branding has inspired a number of Korean construction companies to initiate a new marketing strategy, apartment branding, in the competitive market since the 1990s. As a result, the market-leading brands had stronger sales performances over non-branded apartments in the same residential district. However, major companies with well-known apartment brands still face challenges in managing brand equity constructs, particularly brand loyalty, due to the distinctive characteristics of constructed products (i.e., durability and costliness). To address this issue, this research develops qualitative system dynamics models to analyze the core mechanisms and problems of apartment brand equity building process and proposes long-term managerial strategies to overcome the problem of obtaining apartment brand loyalty. The research outcome is expected to support the strategic decision-making processes of apartment brand managers and to provide implications for further branding applications in other metropolitan areas anticipating a sharp increase in apartments.
THE EFFECT OF BEAM PLUS CERTIFICATION ON PROPERTY PRICE IN HONG KONG
Authors: HUI Eddie C. M. , TSE Cheuk-kin , YU Ka-hung
Published: December 2017

In response to the public’s increasing awareness of sustainable development, the construction industry has introduced “green” buildings which emphasize better environmental performance. However, as a building’s environmental performance is difficult to discern for laymen, different green building certifications have been established for evaluations in this regard. This study evaluates whether there exists a price premium for living space in buildings certified with BEAM Plus. The findings show that the prices of flats in BEAM Plus-certified buildings are 4.4% higher than those in nonregistered buildings, and that housing units in buildings with an “unclassified” rating are transacted at a discount of 5.9%. Nevertheless, if homebuyers mistake an “unclassified” building for a non-registered building, due to the non-disclosure of the “unclassified” result by developers, the price premium of BEAM Plus certification becomes higher (6.2%). Regardless, the price premium is much lower than those on the office sector. The reasons behind such differences can be attributed to the disparities in the tangible and intangible benefits associated with green living space and green office space. Policy implications with reference to Hong Kong’s GFA concession policy are then discussed.
No Evidence of Circumstellar Gas Surrounding Type Ia Supernova SN 2017cbv
Authors: Ferretti Raphael , Amanullah Rahman , Bulla Mattia , Goobar Ariel , Johansson Joel , Lundqvist Peter
Published: December 2017

Nearby type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia), such as SN 2017cbv, are useful events to address the question of what the elusive progenitor systems of the explosions are. Hosseinzadeh et al. suggested that the early blue excess of the light curve of SN 2017cbv could be due to the supernova ejecta interacting with a non-degenerate companion star. Some SN Ia progenitor models suggest the existence of circumstellar (CS) environments in which strong outflows create low-density cavities of different radii. Matter deposited at the edges of the cavities should be at distances at which photoionization due to early ultraviolet (UV) radiation of SNe Ia causes detectable changes to the observable Na i D and Ca ii H&K absorption lines. To study possible narrow absorption lines from such material, we obtained a time series of high-resolution spectra of SN 2017cbv at phases between −14.8 and +83 days with respect to B-band maximum, covering the time at which photoionization is predicted to occur. Both narrow Na i D and Ca ii H&K are detected in all spectra, with no measurable changes between the epochs. We use photoionization models to rule out the presence of Na i and Ca ii gas clouds along the line of sight of SN 2017cbv between ∼8 × 1016–2 × 1019 cm and ∼1015–1017 cm, respectively. Assuming typical abundances, the mass of a homogeneous spherical CS gas shell with radius R must be limited to

. The bounds point to progenitor models that deposit little gas in their CS environment.
Intermittent Anisotropic Turbulence Detected by THEMIS in the Magnetosheath
Authors: Macek W. M. , Wawrzaszek A. , Kucharuk B. , Sibeck D. G.
Published: December 2017

Following our previous study of Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) data, we consider intermittent turbulence in the magnetosheath depending on various conditions of the magnetized plasma behind the Earth’s bow shock and now also near the magnetopause. Namely, we look at the fluctuations of the components of the Elsässer variables in the plane perpendicular to the scale-dependent background magnetic fields and along the local average ambient magnetic fields. We have shown that Alfvén fluctuations often exhibit strong anisotropic non-gyrotropic turbulent intermittent behavior resulting in substantial deviations of the probability density functions from a normal Gaussian distribution with a large kurtosis. In particular, for very high Alfvénic Mach numbers and high plasma beta, we have clear anisotropy with non-Gaussian statistics in the transverse directions. However, along the magnetic field, the kurtosis is small and the plasma is close to equilibrium. On the other hand, intermittency becomes weaker for moderate Alfvén Mach numbers and lower values of the plasma parameter beta. It also seems that the degree of intermittency of turbulence for the outgoing fluctuations propagating relative to the ambient magnetic field is usually similar as for the ingoing fluctuations, which is in agreement with approximate equipartition of energy between these oppositely propagating Alfvén waves. We believe that the different characteristics of this intermittent anisotropic turbulent behavior in various regions of space and astrophysical plasmas can help identify nonlinear structures responsible for deviations of the plasma from equilibrium.
Securing the Required Cyber Defence Capabilities
Authors: Feix Miroslav , Procházka Dalibor
Published: December 2017

The paper deals with cyber security, cyber defence and operations in cyber space. It follows earlier performed analysis of cyber defence tasks and proposes distribution of competencies among key players. The required capabilities are derived from tasks determined by legislation, NATO and EU commitments and earlier developed strategic and operational scenarios. Comparing required capabilities and an actual state, a solution harmonizing defence in cyber space with defence of the Czech Republic and ensuring the cyber space defence and integration cyber capabilities into common operations conducting is proposed.
Illegal Use of Child Soldiers - a Neglected Question in the Preparation of Professional Soldiers
Authors: Burešová Jana
Published: December 2017

Use of child soldiers by rebel armed forces has been growing in recent years. In comparison to preceding conflicts, main reasons for their use have changed significantly - at the present time, children have become highly efficient psychological weapon in battles against the military from developed countries. This may have momentous consequences not only for the given children but also for professional soldiers. Fighting against child soldiers can indisputably affect the soldiers' capability to discharge their duties. Furthermore, they have to cope with many individual moral dilemmas. The article will look into potential moral aspects regarding confrontation between child soldiers and members of professional armed forces. In the following section, training of professional soldiers and preparation of military mission will be explored. Subsequently, weaknesses which are crucial to forestall in the future will be outlined.
Evaluation Method of Frangible Bullets Frangibility
Authors: Komenda J. , Bui X. S. , Vítek R. , Jedlička L.
Published: December 2017

The article deals with the quantification of frangibility of the frangible bullets, which has high practical significance in evaluating the capability of a bullet to fragment upon impact on the target or obstacle and which allows comparison between the different types of the frangible bullets. In this article new original evaluation method of frangibility of frangible pistol bullets when hitting to the defined target is presented.
Influence of Critical Flow in the Differentially Pumped Chamber AQUASEM
Authors: Hlavatá P. , Maxa J. , Bílek M. , Vyroubal P. , Bayer R.
Published: December 2017

The article deals with the effect of the critical flow, which is examined at pumping of the differential pumping chamber of the Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM). The article compares the state of the flow in the area of pumped chamber at pressure ratio on the apertures when the critical flow occurs and its advantages in design of the chambers versus the flow without the clogging the nozzle. Problematics were solved using finite volume method by Ansys Fluent system.
Money drain, the diaspora remittance issues and higher education in Nigeria
Authors: Olutayo A.O.
Published: December 2017

Dans le monde entier, le rôle de l’éducation dans le développement des sociétés ne saurait être mis en question. L’éducation formelle a toutefois un coût. Elle nécessite des investissements certains si l’individu, la collectivité et le gouvernement souhaitent en tirer les meilleurs bénéfices. La part des investissements consacrés à l’éducation par le gouvernement nigérian ne cesse de s’amenuiser même s’il s’efforce de déve­lopper et règlementer l’accès à l’éducation. Les étudiants continuent de migrer en masse pour poursuivre leur formation à l’étranger. Cet article, en s’appuyant majoritairement sur des données secondaires, montre comment le phénomène de la fuite des cerveaux perpétue celui du money drain malgré l’accréditation régulière d’universités privées relativement abordables sur le sol nigérian. Les diasporas et le phénomène du money drain sont intimement liés.
Complexité des dynamiques professionnelles et individuelles de familles françaises en Russie
Authors: Tyurina Anna
Published: December 2017

Cette contribution s’intéresse aux dynamiques professionnelles et individuelles dans une étude sur la mobilité à l’étranger dans ses diverses formes. La recherche dont elle rend compte concerne un public français installé en Russie, en province et dans la capitale, mettant en avant le caractère singulier des différentes mobilités que les personnes interviewées ont vécues durant leurs études et leur parcours professionnel. Cette étude procède par cas, en interviewant les sujets pour pénétrer au cœur de leurs représentations de la mobilité, des facteurs qui président à leurs choix ou non-choix. Nos premiers résultats montrent que la « typologisation » n’est pas le meilleur indicateur des dynamiques professionnelles et individuelles des familles françaises en Russie, mais bien au contraire que les singularités à l’œuvre devraient être analysées en tant que telles pour orienter les politiques de mobilité. La complexité est ainsi l’ancrage privilégié de cette contribution.
Des crimes et des séismes
Authors: Benbouzid Bilel
Published: December 2017

Aux États-Unis, la police prédictive s’inscrit dans un projet ancien de réforme de la police qui vise à créer une police de proaction, plus préventive qu’urgentiste, intervenant de son propre chef, sans être mobilisée par l’appel des citoyens. En 2012, lorsque l’entreprise Predpol commercialise une plateforme d’analyse prédictive, téléchargeable sur une simple application, prenant la forme d’un tableau de bord diffusant en temps réel les risques d’occurrence des crimes avec une précision de l’ordre de 200 mètres, le rêve des réformateurs de la police américaine des années 1970 semble se concrétiser dans une machine. Les mathématiciens qui ont créé cette start-up se sont inspirés d’un algorithme mis au point par un sismologue français. Le code source de la plateforme Predpol n’étant pas accessible pour des raisons de secret commercial, nous nous sommes directement adressés au sismologue pour essayer de comprendre les prédictions. En confrontant, d’un côté, un physicien spécialisé en science de la terre et, d’un autre côté, des chercheurs en mathématique appliquée tournés vers le développement de machines prédictives, nous avons rendu visibles les êtres qui font exister l’algorithme et avons porté toute notre attention sur les associations spécifiques dont l’algorithme de Predpol se compose. Analyser les dimensions morales de la prédiction ne consiste pas à étudier tel ou tel usage du machine learning , mais plutôt à se pencher sur les transformations des modalités de la prédiction d’un contexte social à un autre.
Le code peut-il réparer les routes ?
Authors: Ermoshina Ksenia
Published: December 2017

L’article propose de suivre le développement des « applications citoyennes » et analyse l’articulation de quelques dispositifs avec les infrastructures numériques de l’administration publique. L’article se focalise sur l’application russe « RosYama » [« Trou russe »] qui permet aux utilisateurs de signaler et cartographier les problèmes de la voirie. Conçue par un collectif d’opposants à Poutine, RosYama vit, en 2013, une fusion partielle avec la plateforme officielle de la Mairie de Moscou, via l’API de la ville. Afin de rendre compte de cette collaboration paradoxale, l’article propose de distinguer deux façons de construire la communication numérique citoyens-administrations, appelées « chaîne longue » et « chaîne courte ». Si la chaîne courte apparaît comme un moyen efficace de réparer et « dépolitiser » le nid-de-poule, la chaîne longue le construit et le maintient en tant qu’actant politique et problème public.
Protestation, indignation et rancœur dans l’analyse d’un patient borderline
Authors: Weiss Hans , de Mijolla-Mellor Sophie
Published: December 2017

Protestation, indignation et rancœur sont des réactions courantes lorsqu’un individu se sent blessé et incapable de réparer les dégâts qui lui ont été imposés. Quand la réparation normale échoue, des conduites réparatrices archaïques sont mises en jeu, qui perpétuent plutôt que de les réparer les dégâts sur les objets internes du patient. L’incapacité au pardon et à la réconciliation conduit souvent à des cycles répétitifs sans fin connus sous le titre de « compulsion de répétition ». À l’aide du matériel clinique issu de l’analyse d’un patient borderline, l’auteur montre que, la prédominance du grief et du désir de vengeance chez le patient, projetée sur l’analyste, provoque chez ce dernier un désir de réparation qui est maintenant exposé au même sentiment d’échec et de culpabilité que le patient trouve tellement difficile à supporter. C’est seulement quand cette expérience peut être tolérée et perlaborée que l’impasse peut être surmontée et que de nouveaux développements peuvent émerger.
La datación y la autoría del poema Vita Mahumeti, atribuido a Embrico de Mainz
Authors: González Muñoz Fernando
Published: December 2017

El propósito de este artículo es revisar los problemas de la fecha de composición y la autoría de uno de los primeros relatos legendarios sobre el profeta Muhammad elaborados en la Europa central: la Vita Mahumeti atribuida a Embrico de Mainz. Después de presentar los indicios disponibles y las conjeturas de diferentes estudiosos, se propone una nueva hipótesis sobre la identidad del autor, que permite al mismo tiempo precisar la datación de la obra y sus posibles fuentes y sentido.