bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Association Study and Pathway Analysis for Female Fertility Traits in Iranian Holstein Cattle
Authors: Mohammadi Ali , Alijani Sadegh , Rafat Seyed Abbas , Abdollahi-Arpanahi Rostam
Published: June 2020

Female fertility is an important trait that contributes to cow’s profitability and it can be improved by genomic information. The objective of this study was to detect genomic regions and variants affecting fertility traits in Iranian Holstein cattle. A data set comprised of female fertility records and 3,452,730 pedigree information from Iranian Holstein cattle were used to predict the breeding values, which were then employed to estimate the de-regressed proofs (DRP) of genotyped animals. A total of 878 animals with DRP records and 54k SNP markers were utilized in the genome-wide association study (GWAS). The GWAS was performed using a linear regression model with SNP genotype as a linear covariate. The results showed that an SNP on BTA19, ARS-BFGL-NGS-33473, was the most significant SNP associated with days from calving to first service. In total, [69] significant SNPs were located within 27 candidate genes. Novel potential candidate genes include OSTN, DPP6, EphA5, CADPS2, Rfc1, ADGRB3, Myo3a, C10H14orf93, KIAA1217, RBPJL, SLC18A2, GARNL3, NCALD, ASPH, ASIC2, OR3A1, CHRNB4, CACNA2D2, DLGAP1, GRIN2A and ME3. These genes are involved in different pathways relevant to female fertility and other characteristics in mammals. Gene set enrichment analysis showed that thirteen GO terms had significant overrepresentation of genes statistically associated with female fertility traits. The results of network analysis identified CCNB1 gene as a hub gene in the progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation pathway, significantly associated with age at first calving. The candidate genes identified in this study can be utilized in genomic tests to improve reproductive performance in Holstein cattle.
Assessment of Genotype by Environment Interaction Via Reaction Norms for Milk Yield in Holstein Cattle of Southern Brazil
Authors: Mulim Henrique Alberto , Pinto Luis Fernando Batista , Zampar Aline , Mourão Gerson Barreto , Valloto Altair Antônio , Pedrosa Victor Breno
Published: June 2020

The experiments reported in this research paper were aimed at assessing the genetic responses of a Holstein cow population, as a response to the variations in environmental temperature, through the analysis of the effects resulting from the genotype by environment interaction (GEI), based on reaction norms. Therefore, milk production data was collected from the database of the Paraná Holstein Breeders Association in Brazil for 67,360 primiparous cows born between 1990 and 2015, with the purpose of evaluating the temperature effect, considered as an environmental variable, distinguished under six gradients (17 ºC to 19.5 ºC) over the region. A random regression model was adopted, utilizing the fourth order under the Legendre polynomials, applying the mixed models of analysis by the REML method, and using the WOMBAT software. Additionally, the breeding value of the 15 most representative bulls was assessed, in response to the changes in the temperature gradient. The total milk production on average was estimated at 8,412.83 ± 2,012.08 kg. The heritabilities estimates were found in the low to moderate range, from 0.18 to 0.23, displaying a decline with a rise in the temperature, highlighting the influence it exerted on the heritabilities. Variations in the genetic expression of some bulls were noted to show differences of up to 289 kg of milk in response to the increase in the temperature from 17 ºC to 19.5 ºC. However, all the genetic correlations between the gradients for milk yield were above 0.80, in the range of 0.873 to 0.998, revealing no remarkable interaction between the genotype and environment. This result indicates that the application of the temperature variable in the models of genetic analysis in southern Brazil is not required.
Carcass and Meat Quality Traits in Young Bulls Fed Virginia Fanpetals Silage
Authors: Nogalski Zenon , Starczewski Maciej , Purwin Cezary , Pogorzelska-Przybyłek Paulina , Sobczuk-Szul Monika , Modzelewska-Kapituła Monika
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Virginia fanpetals (Sida hermaphrodita) silage on carcass and beef quality characteristics. Forty Polish Holstein-Friesian bulls aged 16 months were assigned to 4 dietary treatments (n=10) and were fed different types of silage during a 7-month fattening period. The proportion (g/kg dry matter) of silage in the diets was as follows: (1) grass silage (GS) (600); (2) Sida silage (SS) (600); (3) SS (300) and GS (300); and (4) SS (300) and maize silage (MS) (300). Silage was supplemented with concentrate at 400 g/kg DM in each diet. The animals were slaughtered at the end of the fattening period. Silage type had no significant effect on BWG or feed to gain ratio. The carcasses of bulls fed Sida silage and maize silage received higher scores for conformation than the carcasses of bulls fed grass silage (P<0.05). The meat of bulls fed Sida silage had the lowest value of Warner-Bratzler shear force. Meat from SS+MS group bulls had the highest intramuscular fat (IMF) content and was lightest in color, whereas meat from bulls fed Sida silage and grass silage received the highest scores for color uniformity, aroma, taste and overall acceptability.
A New Concept in Minimally Invasive Embryo Transfer
Authors: Wieczorek Jarosław , Stodolak-Zych Ewa , Okoń Krzysztof , Koseniuk Jurij , Bryła Magdalena , Jura Jacek , Cegła Mirosław , Poniedziałek-Kempny Katarzyna , Rajska Iwona
Published: June 2020

Considerable variation in embryo transfer (ET) catheter types, diverging opinions on their quality and functionality, complications following the insertion of catheters, low efficiency of the application of ET methods in humans, and their widely varying efficiency in animals demonstrate the need to improve ET methods and to look for new types of catheters. Such an opportunity is offered by the introduction of catheters made of new-generation biomaterials. This study was aimed to introduce a new generation of biomaterials into reproductive biotechnology. New-generation materials were compared with materials that have been used for many years, and the functionality of newly produced catheters was compared in vivo. Five types of biomaterials were tested: polycaprolactone (PCL), dibutyryl chitin (DBC), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE) and polylactide (PLA). The study was carried out in two stages. Firstly, the basic utility parameters such as geometric stability, surface structure and catheter resistance were evaluated. Subsequently, the biocompatibility of selected biomaterials in embryo cultures was examined, and the development potential of the obtained blastocysts was evaluated. In the second stage, in vivo with live animals, the biomaterials were tested for biocompatibility and the obtained catheters were examined for their ET functionality. Efficiency with the use of the newly produced catheters was determined, the quality of the blastocysts obtained after embryo culture in the uterus was assessed, and oviducts were subjected to histopathological examination after embryo transfer. Of the tested biomaterials, only polyethylene (PE) showed adequate biological and material properties and proved suitable for production of ET catheters.
Transcript Abundances of the Prolactin Receptor, the Leptin Receptor and their Major Suppressor in the Sheep Mammary Gland During Pregnancy and Lactation
Authors: Szczesna Malgorzata , Kirsz Katarzyna , Nowakowski Michal , Zieba Dorota A.
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to expand the knowledge of the interactions between prolactin (PRL) and leptin in the ovine mammary gland during pregnancy and lactation; we examined the mRNA expression of prolactin receptor (PRLR), the long form of the leptin receptor (LRb) and suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-3 in mammary gland biopsies collected on days 60, 90 and 120 of pregnancy and on days 30, 60 and 90 of lactation (n = 6 for each time point), along with the plasma PRL and leptin concentrations. The PRL concentrations were stable throughout pregnancy and increased during lactation. The plasma leptin concentrations were comparable among nonpregnant, early-pregnant, late-pregnant and lactating ewes, but this metric peaked during mid-pregnancy. Expression of PRLR and SOCS-3 in the mammary gland fluctuated during the transition from pregnancy to lactation, and differences in LRb expression occurred during the late stages of lactation. The LRb transcript abundance was approximately 31 times higher in ewes on day 60 of lactation than in early-lactating ewes. Expression of SOCS-3 mRNA in biopsies gradually decreased over the course of pregnancy and reached a minimum value during late pregnancy. After lambing, the transcript level of SOCS-3 increased and peaked on day 60 of lactation. During pregnancy, the plasma PRL concentration positively correlated with the abundances of PRLR (r = 0.971, P<0.01) and SOCS-3 (r = 0.818, P<0.05). Positive correlations were also observed between the transcript abundances of SOCS-3 and LRb (r = 0.854, P<0.05). The variations observed in the plasma PRL and leptin concentrations and the changes in expression of key leptin and PRL signal transduction pathway components, such as PRLR, LRb and SOCS-3, indicate that the efficacies of both hormone actions are modulated in a multilevel manner throughout pregnancy and lactation. These interactions may regulate the ability of the mammary gland to respond to current energy requirements and challenges, thus affecting milk yield and lactation duration.
Comparison of Results Obtained by Two Methods of Surface Mapping
Authors: Melcer Jozef , Merčiaková Eva , Pisca Peter
Published: June 2020

Considering that the unevenness of the road surface is the primary source of the kinematic excitation of the vehicle, it is necessary to map the unevenness, and then to describe it mathematically. The data sets thus obtained represent an important input for numerical simulations of the motion of vehicles on the road. This paper deals with the analysis and comparison of results from two methods of mapping the surface of the road - exact levelling and spatial scanning. The obtained results are evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively by methods of mathematical statistics and probability theory.
Modeling Factors Affecting the Choice of Telework and its Impact on Demand in Transportation Networks
Authors: Vakilian Rambod , Edrisi Ali
Published: June 2020

This research estimates the extent of using teleworking to mean the feasibility and appropriateness of this method of work for employees and professors according to their characteristics and features of career. The study population included university staff and professors in Tehran, and data collection was carried out through 447 questionnaires. A logistic regression model was used to investigate the transport demand caused by teleworking. The results showed that various factors, including history and percentage of telework, and after that, the time delay of home-to-work and travel distance, affected the model of transportation demand of professor’s members. For the staffing community, it had the most significant impact on teleworking, history and percentage of telework, followed by travel distances, latency from work to home, and latency from home to work.
Material Damping in Dynamic Analysis of Structures (With LIRA-SAPR Program)
Authors: Barabash Mariia , Pisarevskyi Bogdan , Bashynskyi Yaroslav
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this paper is to justify that it is necessary to take account of physical and mechanical properties of soil and different materials of erected structure for damping vibrations in dynamic loads; to suggest tools for modelling the damping effect (natural or engineering induced) between foundation and soil. Certain technique is suggested for modelling behaviour of structure in time history analysis with account of material damping. In the software, the damping effect is modelled in two variants: Rayleigh damping (for structure) and finite element of viscous damping. When solving this problem, the following results were obtained: physical meaning of material damping is described; Rayleigh damping coefficients were computed through modal damping coefficients. Numerical analysis is carried out for the structure together with soil in earthquake load using developed FE of viscous damping. Time history analysis was carried out for the problem. Peak values of displacement, speed and acceleration at the floor levels were compared. Analysis results are compared (with and without account of material damping). Significant influence of damping on the stress-strain state of the structure is confirmed. Scientific novelty of the paper is in the following: the damping effect is proved to happen regardless of the presence of installed structural damping equipment; technique for account of damping with Rayleigh damping coefficients is developed; new damping element is developed – FE of viscous damping (FE 62), its behaviour is described as linear mathematical model. Practical implications of the paper: developed technique and new FE enables the user to carry out numerical analysis properly and work out a set of measures on seismic safety for buildings and structures.
Evolution of the Mechanical Properties and Cracking Pattern of Cementitious Composites Reinforced with Hooked Steel Fibers
Authors: Ranjbar Hamid , Jadidi Ali , Amerei Hosein
Published: June 2020

Degradation and disintegration of concrete depend on the formation of cracks and micro cracks intensively. With increase loading, micro cracks are linked together and form cracks. To solve the problem and to provide the homogenous condition, a series of thin fibers having been spread through the volume of concrete are used in the several last decades and they are called as fibers. In the study, the steel fibers integrated in the different percentages of weight have been investigated. The performance of fibers has been studied how to increase compressive strength, tensile strength, and bending strength. To survey compressive strength, tensile strength, and bending strength in the produced concrete, three plans of mixtures including the different percentages of the steel fibers have been examined. The results show that compressive strength in the concrete reinforced with steel fibers relies mainly on the quality of mortar. The added steel fibers cause the inconsiderable changes in the compressive strength of concrete. The results demonstrate that the concrete reinforced with steel fibers increase tensile strength considerably. The more the volume of steel fibers is, the more tensile strength is. Pozzolanic materials used in the specimens reinforced in steel fibers improve tensile strength. To investigate bending strength of the specimens reinforced with steel fibers, the study has used 4-point loading system. Generally, steel fibers used in the concrete increase bending strength of the concrete. The results indicate the increased steel fibers enhance bending strength in three plans of mixtures. Among the specimen reinforced with steel fibres, the most mechanical properties are related to the plans including 1, 1.5, and 2 percentages of dramix hooked steel fibers in the study. To examine crack pattern of the matrix tensile specimen reinforced with the different percentages of fibers, parameters such as the number of cracks, width of cracks, and distance between them are investigated.
Surface and Groundwater Pollution: the Invisible, Creeping Threat to Human Health
Authors: Shah Hammad Ahmed , Sheraz Muhammad , Khan Afed Ullah , Khan Fayaz Ahmad , Shah Liaqat Ali , Khan Jehanzeb , Khan Ashfaq , Khan Zahoor
Published: June 2020

This study reports pollution source apportionment of surface waters and human health risk assessment based on 18 physicochemical and traces elements from 24 water quality monitoring sites for surface and groundwater around the two trans-boundary rivers of Pakistan: The Ravi and Sutlej. The principal component analysis identified 6 principal components (76.98 % cumulative variance) which are mainly caused by untreated industrial effluents, intense agricultural activities, and irrigation tailwater discharges. For all dissolved trace elements in surface waters, health hazard indices (HI) and hazard quotients (HQ) through ingestion and dermal contact are < 1 except As and Cr through ingestion only (for both adults and children). For adults and children, the HQingestion and HI values for As, Mn, Cu (for children only) and As, Fe, Mn (for children only) are > 1, indicating that As, Mn, Fe, and Cu are the most important pollutants causing chronic risks among the selected trace elements in both shallow and deep groundwater respectively. HQingestion, HQdermal, and HI values are higher for children than that of adults which shows the high susceptibility of children to these dissolved trace elements. The carcinogenic indices for the entire surface water elements exceed 10−6 through dermal and ingestion pathways suggesting carcinogenic health risk to the surrounding community. Hence, to protect human health, wastewater treatment plants and best management practices should be practiced to control point source and nonpoint source pollution respectively in the understudied area.
Analysis of Measuring the Deformation Resistance of the Subgrade Surface of a Modernised Line Považská Teplá - Žilina
Authors: Ižvolt Libor , Dobeš Peter
Published: June 2020

Most of the railway lines in Slovakia were built in the second half of the 19th century, or until 1918 (the establishment of Czechoslovakia). Except for the post-World War II period, when approximately 71 % of the Slovak lines had to be renewed, limited funds have been spent on repair and reconstruction works on the lines located in the Slovak territory. As some trans-European corridors cross the Slovak territory and the Slovak Republic assumed obligations arising from the AGC and AGTC agreements, the line modernization is more than desirable. The primary objective of the modernisation of railway lines in the territory of Slovakia is to ensure a high-quality and safe railway, which by its qualitative parameters corresponds to the standards of developed European countries. In this context, the paper deals with a section of the modernised corridor no. Va, specifically the section Považská Teplá - Žilina. During the period 2014-2017, quality diagnostics of the performed work was carried out on the sub-ballast layers of the above-mentioned line. Consequently, we carried out an analysis of the obtained values of the deformation resistance of the subgrade surface, as the weakest element in the construction of the sub-ballast layers.
Applicability of OSL Dating to Fine-Grained Fluvial Deposits in the Mekong River Floodplain, Cambodia
Authors: Ishii Yuji , Tamura Toru , Collins Daniel S. , Ben Bunnarin
Published: June 2020

Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating of fine-grained (4–11 μm) fluvial sediments is rarely attempted but is crucial for constraining the evolution of mud-dominated floodplains. This study investigated the applicability of OSL dating to fine-grained deposits in the Mekong River, Cambodia based on a very young (<600 yr) point-bar to riverbank succession and modern flood deposits. In succession, fine-grained quartz OSL provided the youngest ages, whereas age estimates by multi-grain sand-sized quartz OSL, and feldspar and polymineral infrared-stimulated luminescence are >200 years older than the fine-grained quartz OSL age estimates. Ages of fine-grained quartz OSL are concordant with the minimum ages obtained from the single-grain quartz OSL. These results are supported by the generally small residual doses (<0.1 Gy) measured in modern fine-grained flood-plain deposits. This indicates that fine-grained sediments in the Mekong River (Cambodia) are sufficiently bleached at deposition and can yield reliable quartz OSL ages for establishing the chronology of the floodplain. The sufficient bleaching of fine-grained quartz partly results from the long transport distance and may also occur in other large river systems.
A micro-analysis of Irish firm deaths during the financial crisis (2006–2010)
Authors: Power Bernadette , Ryan Geraldine , Doran Justin
Published: June 2020

This paper examines differences in the hazard rates of young, established and mature firms during the financial crisis, using microdata from more than 300,000 Irish firms. The findings confirm that firm size at the time of the crisis had the largest impact on the probability of exit. The liability of smallness was pronounced in mature cohorts. Industry conditions had a considerable effect on the hazard rate of young cohorts, as opposed to mature counterparts. Interestingly, agglomeration raised the hazard rates of younger cohorts only. By contrast, attributes of the labour force of the region largely influenced the hazard rates of more established firms. Firms founded before the crisis were significantly less likely to exit in the aftermath of the crisis, in comparison with firms founded just before or during the crisis, whereas more mature firms seem to be more sensitive to the economic cycle.
Gaussian Recursive Filter for Nonlinear Systems with Finite-step Correlated Noises and Packet Dropout Compensations
Authors: Tan Li-Guo , Xu Cheng , Wang Yu-Fei , Wei Hao-Nan , Zhao Kai , Song Shen-Min
Published: June 2020

This paper is focused on the nonlinear state estimation problem with finite-step correlated noises and packet loss. Firstly, by using the projection theorem repeatedly, the mean and covariance of process noise and measurement noise in the condition of measurements before the current epoch are calculated. Then, based on the Gaussian approximation recursive filter (GASF) and the prediction compensation mechanism, one-step predictor and filter with packet dropouts are derived, respectively. Based on these, a nonlinear Gaussian recursive filter is proposed. Subsequently, the numerical implementation is derived based on the cubature Kalman filter (CKF), which is suitable for general nonlinear system and with higher accuracy compared to the algorithm expanded from linear system to nonlinear system through Taylor series expansion. Finally, the strong nonlinearity model is used to show the superiority of the proposed algorithm.
Endangered Municipalities ? Case Study of Three Small and Critically Indebted Czech Municipalities
Authors: Hornek Jakub , Jüptner Petr
Published: June 2020

This paper addresses the issue of Czech small critically indebted municipalities, which has been neglected in the European discourse after successful European consolidation reforms. The Czech Republic is one of the Central European countries where there is no relevant debate on the mandatory amalgamation of small municipalities that are often faced with a combination of multiple risk factors.

This paper aims to analyze a sample of the Czech municipalities that are threatened by a combination of their small size and critical indebtedness. A research of the sample focuses on a) the identification of the reasons for critical indebtedness, b) the impact of critical indebtedness on the delivery of services and local democracy and c) the options and strategies to overcome the issues related to critical indebtedness.

Methodologically, the paper is a multiple-case study of three small critically indebted municipalities of the Karlovy Vary region, which was considered the worst region in 2012 in terms of the share of critically indebted municipalities, with several long-term critically indebted municipalities on its territory. Based on the media monitoring and economic criteria, the municipalities of Prameny, Bublava and Nebanice have been chosen.

The main finding of our research is the identification of so-called endangered chains: 1) small municipalities with low revenues resulting in 2) limited administrative and expert capacity that contributes to 3) a mistake in a large investment project resulting in 4) the economic collapse of the municipality that endangers the provision of services, and in the case of 5) insufficient social capital this can lead to agony of local self-government and the collapse of the municipality. According to the findings, the examined municipalities of Nebanice and Bublava correspond to the chain link 4, and in the case of Prameny it is possible to speak about the chain link 5.
Participatory Budget as a Tool Supporting the Development of Civil Society in Poland
Authors: Kempa Jarosław , Kozłowski Artur Roland
Published: June 2020

Although three decades have passed since the fall of communism in Poland, the observed level of social activity in the country is relatively low. Participatory budget emerged as an idea to increase the involvement of citizens in decision-making processes concerning their immediate surroundings. In addition to their inclusion in the activity of local government, this form of citizen participation is expected to have a positive impact on residents’ involvement in activities for the benefit of the local community. The aim of this article is to indicate the conditions that influenced the implementation of the idea of the first participatory budget in Poland and emphasizing the importance of the civic budget in managing public administration through partial decentralization involving local communities in social dialogue for local investment initiatives, especially in large provincial cities in Poland. The following research question was adopted in the paper: has the introduction of a participatory budget in Poland increased social activity and has it been conducive to the development of civil society. In Poland, the initiative to create a civic budget met good political conditions in the relatively small city of Sopot, which had the resources to implement the project. After successful implementation, this initiative was relatively quickly adopted by other Polish local governments, which then on their own introduced social consultations called the civic budget. Not all poviats introduced the civic budget of their own volition. The government, seeing the possibility of political discounting of this new solution, decided to introduce a mandatory participatory budget in town counties and ordered the allocation of funds from their budgets, no less than 1 % of budget expenditure. The article relies on the case-study method, comparative analysis and trend analysis, qualitative and quantitative methods of description, document analysis and statistical data. The analysis focuses on the town of Sopot and provincial capitals. Local conditions are important for understanding the processes of shaping active civic attitudes in Poland, because cities are the poles of development of civil society and give impetus to innovative changes in the entire socio-economic system. The materials used in the article include reports, documents and legal acts regarding the functioning of the town of Sopot.

The study showed that the participatory budget indeed activates the local community around various projects. At the same time, the question of directly translating this activity into an increase in the number of organizations, associations and foundations remains debatable. The introduction of the participatory budget to administrative management practice in local-government units in Poland should be considered in terms of the soft power impact of administration on the shaping and development of civil society, which is still in the development stage in Poland.
Regulatory Cybernetics: Adaptability and Probability in the Public Administration’s Regulations
Authors: Pečarič Mirko
Published: June 2020

Dynamic perspectives from systems theory and cybernetics are used in this paper to introduce the self-adaptable legal regulation or individual decision-making based on Bayes networks. The latter, by using similar elements as systems theory or cybernetics can help decision-makers not only to quantify the evidential strengths of hypotheses but also to take the most probable decision. Nowadays legal science and the public administration with it that prepares the majority of draft legal rules, do not sufficiently address legal forms from which rules’ content derives. The increasing speed of change and the consequent shortness of operative rules should force decision-makers to consider the new forms of legal norms and decisions that would still respect the objectivity and impartiality of decision-making.
The Transparency of Czech Foundations
Authors: Pejcal Jakub
Published: June 2020

Non-governmental non-profit organizations can strive to gain the confidence of the general public in various ways, one of which is the meeting of basic legal requirements for transparency – the disclosure of financial statements. Based on a set of 528 Czech foundations, the article illustrates how the organizations approach their legal obligations and look for features that contribute to the long-term fulfillment of this obligation. On average, 51.32 % of entities do not fulfill their obligations across the years. The organizations with a website (35.58 % of entities do not fulfill their legal obligations to disclose financial statements) and organizations that received public support in the form of a contribution from the Foundation Investment Fund (25.62 % of subjects do not fulfill) are better off. Statistical testing has revealed that younger organizations (14 years or less) are more responsible (continuous performance). They usually have a functioning website, are headquartered in the capital, and have a single founder (natural or legal). With the help of an expert panel composed of both academics and representatives of the non-governmental non-profit sector, the conclusions are set in an overall context. In its approach and results, the article builds on previous Czech (the description of the conditions of fulfillment of duties) and foreign (the search for signs contributing to the fulfillment of duties) findings and complements them appropriately.
Modern Trends of Customs Administrations Formation: Best European Practices and a Unified Structure
Authors: Shpak Nestor , Melnyk Olga , Adamiv Marta , Sroka Włodzimierz
Published: June 2020

The ambiguous trends in international trade in 2019 and the forecast for 2020 enhance the functional role of the customs bodies in every country. That is because the customs system largely determines the ease of conducting international trade, the security of international supply chains and economic development of the countries. Though many developed countries have been able to form progressive customs systems, there are still countries that are in the process of reforming customs administrations and require a unified conceptual approach to build their customs systems. Given this fact the goal of our study is to analyze current trends in the development of the international customs systems and on the basis of it to identify the main and support functions of customs administration. Based on the principle of the best practices, the countries with the best customs administrations according to WTO data, i.e. France, Germany, the Netherlands, Lithuania and Poland were selected for analysis. We analyzed the positions of these countries in the leading international rankings, the key quantitative indicators of their customs activity and the peculiarities of the organizational construction of the customs authorities by functional principle. As the result, based on the use of systematic, dynamic and topologically substantive approaches and results of research, we developed a unified conceptual structure of the customs administration. In particular, the main functions (i.e. control, security and fiscal) and support functions (i.e. regulatory, administration, communication, service, information and statistical subsystems, resource support subsystem and international cooperation) were proposed. The proposed structure is intended to be used by representatives of the customs authorities in different countries throughout the world.
How to Attract and Retain Creative Class
Authors: Vitálišová Katarína , Vaňová Anna , Šúrová Janka
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, relatively high attention of public policies, also from the EU point of view, is paid to creative territories and the promotion of the creative class. However, very few published studies have been conducted about the mobility and behaviour of the creative class in the spatial-development context. To contribute to the deeper research of this issue the paper analyses the results of published empirical studies on the behaviour and mobility of the creative class in various types of territories and compares them with the behaviour and location of the creative class in the Slovak Republic. Subsequently, reflecting the key findings it proposes the public policy recommendations that should contribute to attracting and retaining the creative class as an integral driving force of regional or local development.

In the empirical studies, the compared elements were the main research questions / hypotheses and results, the definition of the creative class, used methods, the factors of creative-class migration, and the policy recommendations, if they were proposed. Special attention was devoted to the issues of creative-class behaviour and localisation factors in the Slovak Republic based on the previous research findings as well as our own research results.

All studies confirm that the mobility of the creative class is only a little bit higher than that of non-creatives. Among the key factors playing a dominant role in the selection of the actual place of residence are personal trajectories, followed by good employment opportunities. That is why the strategies of public policy should aim at retaining the creative class, fostering the creative and diverse climate by developing new higher-education institutions, new creative-subject incubators, supporting networks and partnerships; then the economic and social benefits of the creative class for the territories may be expected.
Anthropometric features in predicting insulin resistance among non-menopausal Indonesian adult females
Authors: Kurniawan Liong Boy , Syamsir Bachtiar , Rahman Ilham Akbar , Adnan Endy , Esa Tenri , Widaningsih Yuyun , Bahrun Uleng , Arif Mansyur
Published: June 2020

Introduction. The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide in high, low, and middle-income countries such as Indonesia. Obesity rate is higher in females in Indonesia. Obesity has important contribution in the occurrence of insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Several anthropometric measurements such as waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), body mass (BM), total body fat percentage (Fat%) and visceral fat (VF) are related to IR. This study aimed to investigate which of those measurements could be used as a better predictor of IR in non-menopausal Indonesian adult females.

Methods. Total of 80 non-menopausal Indonesian adult females ranging from 21 to 40 years were recruited in this study. Insulin resistance was measured by using Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) equation. Subjects with HOMA-IR index >75th percentile with cut-off 2.74 were defined as IR. Waist circumference, BMI and BM were measured, while TF and VF were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA).

Results. HOMA-IR had significant correlation with WC (r = 0.563, p < 0.001), BMI (r = 0.537, p < 0.001), BM (r = 0.515, p < 0.001), VF (r = 0.515, p < 0.001), Fat% (r = 0.490, p < 0.001). The area under curve of VF (0.809), BMI (0.807), WC (0.805), and BM (0.799) are slightly larger than and Fat% (0.766).

Conclusion. Insulin resistance had strong correlation with all anthropometric measurements, but the correlation was less significant with Fat%.
Removal of Na2SO4 from a Filter Ash
Authors: Janc Blaž , Hann Damjan
Published: June 2020

In this paper, research on the possibilities of sodium sulphate (Na2SO4) separation from other substances in the filter ash sample is presented. The research material contains six components that differ in chemical composition and density. The possibilities of Na2SO4 separation using dry and wet methods were studied. The dry method was based on separation with a centrifugal air classifier at four cut size limits. The wet method was based on the dissolution of water-soluble components, filtration of insoluble components, and drying the products. The sulphur content of the individual products was determined using both methods. The aim of the research was to determine which method is more suitable for separation of the material in a way that most of the material would contain as little sulphur as possible and the rest of the material would contain concentrated sulphur. The wet method proved to be more successful. The product with mass fraction 33.1% of the total mass, obtained from the aqueous solution, contained 8.39% sulphur after filtration and drying. The water-insoluble component, with mass fraction 66.9% of the total mass, contained 0.56% sulphur. The dry method with the centrifugal air classifier proved to be less successful in comparison with the wet method. The particles containing Na2SO4 are very similar in size and density to the other components of the material, so the separation to the desired extent was not achieved.
Supratentorial intraventricular rosette-forming glioneuronal tumors – Case report and review of treatment paradigms
Authors: Mahavadi Anil K. , Temmins Caroline , Patel Mahesh R. , Singh Harminder
Published: June 2020

Background:

Rosette-forming glioneuronal tumors (RGNT) are slow-growing WHO Grade I tumors that are characterized by mixed histology and rosette formation. Although typically located in the posterior fossa, these tumors can rarely originate elsewhere. Here, we describe the fourth case in literature where an RGNT was localized to the lateral ventricles and detail the treatment approach.

Case Description:

A 41-year-old male presented with a 10 day history of gradually worsening headaches and mild gait difficulty. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified a heterogeneously enhancing 6.0 cm left lateral ventricular cystic mass with hydrocephalus. An interhemispheric transcallosal approach was performed for tumor debulking. The mass was emanating from the roof of the left lateral ventricle. Sub-total resection (STR) was achieved. Pathology showed a glioneuronal neoplasm with vague neurocytic rosettes and loose perivascular pseudorosettes. Tumor vessels were thickly hyalinized and contained eosinophilic granular bodies and Rosenthal fibers. Tumor stained positive for GFAP, S-100, OLIG2, and SOX10, and patchy positive for epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), D2-40, CD99, and p16. Neurocytic rosettes and perivascular structures stained positive for synaptophysin. The patient was discharged home uneventfully and remained intact at his 6-month follow-up visit. Long-term care included MRI surveillance with repeat surgery being considered in case of progression.

Conclusion:

In this report, we describe the fourth case of an RGNT being isolated to the lateral ventricles and the first where it stained positive for EMA and D2-40. Our patient’s uneventful recovery after STR indicates that surgery alone continues to be a viable initial treatment option.
Supratentorial convexity schwannoma unrelated to cranial nerves: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wajima Daisuke , Aketa Shuta , Yonezawa Taiji
Published: June 2020

Background:

Intracranial schwannoma not related to cranial nerves is rare entity, and difficult to be diagnosed preoperatively. Here, we experienced a case of convexity schwannoma mimicking convexity meningioma, and discuss about the characteristics of such cases based on the past published reports.

Case Description:

A 48-year-old man presented with a sudden onset of seizures. Brain magnetic resonance image (MRI) revealed a small mass lesion in the peripheral aspect of the right parieto-frontal lobe. The mass was isointense on T1-weighted and hyperintense on T2-weighted MRI, with homogenous enhancement after contrast medium administration. After the feeder embolization on the previous day, removal of the tumor was performed. The tumor revealed a well-demarcated, firm, spherical tumor beyond, and beneath the dura and was relatively easy to be separated from the brain. Histologically, the tumor was observed to be in subarachnoid space extending to outer space of dura-mater, intimately attached to the pia mater. The histological diagnosis was schwannoma.

Conclusion:

In our case, MRI findings are similar to convexity meningioma; however, the pathological diagnosis was schwannoma. Cerebral convexity is an extremely rare location for schwannoma. We emphasize that schwannoma, not related to cranial nerves, may arise in the subdural convexity space.
Parvimonas micra: A potential causative pathogen to consider when diagnosing odontogenic brain abscesses
Authors: Prieto Ruth , Callejas-Díaz Alejandro , Hassan Rasha , de Vargas Alberto Pérez , López-Pájaro Luis Fernando
Published: June 2020

Background:

Brain abscess is a life-threatening entity which requires prompt and long-term antibiotic therapy, generally associated with surgical drainage, and eradicating the primary source of infection. Parvimonas micra (Pm) has only been reported once before as the lone infecting organism of an orally originated, solitary brain abscess. Diagnosing brain abscesses caused by this Gram-positive anaerobic coccus, constituent of the oral cavity flora, is challenging, and an optimal treatment regimen has not been well established. We report the diagnosis and successful treatment of a Pm caused odontogenic brain abscess.

Case Description:

A 62-year-old immunocompetent male with a right-parietal brain abscess presented with headache and seizures. He was started on empirical antibiotic therapy and subsequently underwent surgical drainage. The only source of infection found was severe periodontitis with infected mandibular cysts. Thus, tooth extraction and cyst curettage were performed 1 week after brain surgery. Cultures of brain abscess fluid were negative, but amplification of bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) with polymerase chain reaction demonstrated Pm. After 3 weeks of intravenous ceftriaxone and metronidazole, the patient was switched to oral metronidazole and moxifloxacin for 6 weeks.

Conclusions:

This case highlights the potential risk of untreated dental infections causing brain abscesses. Pm should be considered as a possible pathogen of odontogenic brain abscesses despite its presence usually not being detected by standard bacterial cultures. Therefore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis is strongly recommended for bacterial identification before defining brain abscesses as cryptogenic.
On the use of the address terms guys and mate in an educational context
Authors: Parkinson Jean
Published: June 2020

© 2020 Elsevier B.V. In an educational context, the use of address terms indicating familiarity is one factor that contributes to a friendly classroom environment. The current study investigates the use of the address terms mate and guys in a corpus of classroom discourse in a vocational institution in New Zealand. Findings reveal that in addition to mate employed to address one person, and guys employed to address many people, these two address terms had very different functions. Guys was used to attract students' attention, to indicate the start of, end of, or change in task, and to emphasize important content, while mate functioned largely in mitigating face threats and in affective functions, such as encouragement and praise. This study shows how the use of these address terms facilitated the tutors’ achievement of these functions, which are all central to teaching.
PEMBERDAYAAN KOMUNITAS TAMAN BACA MASYARAKAT DALAM PENINGKATAN LITERASI INFORMASI DI NAGARI TABEK
Authors: AFRINA CUT , ADRIPEN ADRIPEN , ELIWATIS ELIWATIS , RIKARNO RIKI , HANAFI BENI PUTRA
Published: June 2020

Pengembangan literasi informasi bagi masyarakat nagari merupakan salah satu peluang yang harus bisa dimaksimalisasikan oleh pemerintahan nagari. Berdasarkan hasil curah pendapat (brainstorming) yang dilakukan oleh tim pemberdayaan Fakultas Ushuludin, adab dan dakwah dengan  pemerintahan nagari Tabek yang melibatkan berbagai lembaga unsur yang ada di nagari Tabek. Ditemukan  berbagai persoalan-persoalan yang dihadapi oleh pemerintahan nagari Tabek diantaranya adalah kesulitan dalam merumuskan program pembangunan perpustakaan nagari, rendahnya partisipasi lembaga unsur dan masyarakat dalam pembagunan perpustakaan nagari, belum tersedianya bangunan khusus untuk perpustakaan nagari, rendahnya tingkat pendidikan masyarakat tentang pentingnya perpustakaan nagari dan belum adanya inisiatif masyarakat untuk meningkatkan literasi informasi melalui pengembangan perpustakaan. Kegiatan ini terbentukanya komunitas Taman Baca Masyarakat (TBM) dan struktur organisasi dari komunitas TBM di Nagari Tabek, serta pembuatan program-program berdasarkan jangka pendek, jangka menengah, dan jangka panjang yang telah mampu memenuhi kegiatan bidang pengabdian masyarakat. Melalui kegiatan ini diharapkan agar aspek literasi informasi khususnya pengelolaan taman baca dapat berjalan dengan baik dan dapat dimanfaatkan untuk kemakmuran masyarakat.
Pendampingan Mitigasi Bencana Gempa Bumi dan Tsunami Berbasis Pengetahuan Lokal pada Masyarakat Rentan Bencana di Kabupaten Mukomuko Bengkulu
Authors: Dian Agustina  , Sunandi Etis , Nugroho Sigit
Published: June 2020

The first objective of this activity is to increase knowledge and understanding of the rescue procedures, evacuation routes, and emergency response plans when a large earthquake occurs. The second objective is to increase the knowledge and ability to mobilize available resources. With this knowledge and capability, the community can choose and sort out the resources that must be prioritized, so that losses can be reduced as little as possible. Referring to the results of the study, reducing the impact of earthquake and tsunami disaster risk is greatly influenced by emergency response plan factors, disaster warning system factors, knowledge factors, policy and guidance factors, and the ability of team mobilization. The conclusion obtained from the results of this activity is that the Air Rami Sub-district community gained increased knowledge and understanding of earthquake and tsunami mitigation. This can be seen from the enthusiasm of stakeholders and the public in participating in socialization activities. It is also supported by the Wilcoxon statistical test, the result showed that socialization increases public knowledge in understanding disaster mitigation, especially earthquakes and tsunamis.
Pengembangan Agrowisata Berbasis Komunitas Melalui Program Edukasi Wisata dan Entrepreneurship Menuju Kemandirian Ekonomi Masyarakat
Authors: Tamam Ahmad Badrut , Fahimah Siti
Published: June 2020

The agriculture-focused tourisme, then called agro-tourism has been applied in some areas, but each region has different land character. Besur, one of the villages in Lamongan, has WBAE as one of the agrotourisme with its own specification, namely suitable for rice and the like. The WBAE grows very fast by the hard commitmens and spirit of the managers but they should do the total quality improvement to stand for its existence. The accompaniment is aimed to keep and make the continuous quality improvement then equl with the other agro-tourism. The approach used is ABCD (Asset Based Community Development) it’s implemented by maximizing the assets owned by the village it passes three steps, such as deram, design, define and destiny. It’s applied by improving the quality of the WBAE assigmnet implementation team TPK in place management and enhanting the intrepreneurial quality of human resources. The programs have been applied including the tourism management training to improve the human resources of TPK WBAE, the setting of WBAE TPK jobs list and WBAE development design as well.