bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of time scale on flood simulation: maximum rainfall intensity and fractal theory based time disaggregation method for rainfall
Authors: Zhang Hanchen , Zhang Weijiang
Published: October 2020

The time scale of rainfall data limits the accuracy and application scope of hydrologic models, especially when low-accuracy observed rainfall data are used in physically based distributed hydrologic models. In this study, an optimized rainfall method based on maximum rainfall intensity and self-similarity was established to provide different rainfall data for the physically based distributed hydrological model. The results showed the following: (1) the increase of time scale resulted in decreased rainfall intensity and an evenly distributed rainfall pattern; (2) the established disaggregation method for rainfall well described the uneven distribution in time; (3) the influence of time scale could be divided into 1–20, 20–120, and 120–360 min; (4) the conversion method between rainfall intensity and saturated hydraulic conductivity was effective at ensuring the physical meaning of the parameters on a time scale of 20–90 min. Furthermore, results showed that the reasonable time scale of application of the CASC2D model is less than 120 min. For longer time scales, the model was able to simulate peak discharge but unable to describe the flood process.
Seasonal and spatial distributions of morpho-functional phytoplankton groups and the role of environmental factors in a subtropical river-type reservoir
Authors: Yang Mengzhuo , Xia Jihong , Cai Wangwei , Zhou Zhiyue , Yang Lubo , Zhu Xingxue , Li Chaoda
Published: October 2020

Phytoplankton is capable of responding to aquatic conditions and can therefore be used to monitor freshwater reservoir water quality. Numerous classification techniques, including morpho-functional approaches, have been developed. This study examined changes in phytoplankton assemblages and water quality, which were sampled quarterly from July 2018 to April 2019. The purpose was to contrast the applicability of three classification approaches (functional, morpho-functional and morphological-based functional groupings) for understanding the spatial and seasonal distribution of the biomass variance in phytoplankton functional groups and their driving environmental factors in the ecological zones of the Shanxi Reservoir through multivariate analysis. The results showed that the phytoplankton biomass was highest in the watercourse zone and lowest in the transition zone. Furthermore, the Shanxi Reservoir was characterized by several cyanobacteria (Microcystis spp.) and numerous bacillariophytes (Asterionella sp., Navicula spp. and Aulacoseira granulata). After evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of morpho-functional classifications, we determined that water temperature appeared to be an essential factor, and the morphology-based functional group approach provided the best results for demonstrating phytoplankton succession, despite having lower sensitivity than the others. Nevertheless, these approaches are all appropriate for identifying and monitoring phytoplankton community structure in aquatic systems of reservoirs with complex terrains.
Investigation of Adsorption of Sulfanilamide Drug on Surfaces of the B12N12 and Al12N12 Fullerenes: A DFT Study
Authors: Azarakhshi Fatemeh , Shahab Siyamak , Kaviani Sadegh , Sheikhi Masoome
Published: October 2020

:

In current work, the adsorption of Sulfanilamide (SLF) drug over B12N12 and Al12N12 fullerenes was studied
using DFT and TDDFT calculations at the M06-2X/6-31+G** level in the solvent water for the first time. The adsorption
effect of the SLF on the bonds length, electronic properties such as charge analysis, frontier molecular orbital (FMO), dipole
moment and optical properties of B12N12 and Al12N12 fullerenes was investigated. The UV absorption spectra were calculated for study the significant changes are taking place in interactions between SLF and B12N12 and Al12N12 fullerenes.
According to charge analysis, it is found that charge transfer occurs from SLF drug to fullerenes and from fullerene to SLF
drug. The analysis of the LOL and ELF was shown the N-B and O-B bonds are greater than the other bonds, representing
higher electron density localization and stronger covalent characteristic. The adsorption of the SLF from the head of N atom
of sulfonamide group on the surface of B12N12 with the lower energy gap (EG) was more considerable than the head O atom
and the N atom of NH2-Ar group. It is found that the applied B12N12 fullerene can be suitable as a drug carrier for the
delivery of SLF drug.
In silico Binding Profile Analysis and In vitro Investigation on Chitin Synthase
Substrate and Inhibitors from Maize Stem Borer, Chilo partellus
Authors: Ranganathan Sampathkumar , Ampasala Dinakara Rao , Palaka Bhagath Kumar , Ilavarasi Anbumani Velmurugan , Patidar Ishwar , Poovadan Lakshmi Priya , Sapam Tuleshwori Devi
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Insect growth and metamorphosis are strictly dependent on the structural changes that occur in
chitin containing tissues and organs. Chitin synthase catalyzes chitin polymerization by β-(1, 4) glycosidic linkage of Nacetyl-D-glucosamine (GlcNAc) monomers; the major component of insect cuticles. Targeting this enzyme could be a
promising strategy to control insect pests while avoiding adverse effects on coexisting populations. Nikkomycin Z and
polyoxins are commercially available fungal inhibitors known to bind to the nucleotide-binding sites of insects and fungal
chitin synthase. But the binding mode of chitin synthase has not been explored to date as its structure is not available yet.

Methods:

To understand the structural features of the Chilo partellus chitin synthase enzyme (CpCHS), the threedimensional (3D) structure of the CpCHS catalytic domain was modeled using ROBETTA webserver. The obtained
model was used to investigate the binding mode of its substrate, uridine diphosphate-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (UDPGlcNAc), and inhibitors (nikkomycin Z and polyoxins) by molecular docking approach using Schrödinger Suite-Maestro
v9.2. The docked complexes were further investigated for their interaction stability by performing molecular dynamics
(MD) simulations using GROMACS v5.1.2.

Results:

Our study highlighted the significance of various interactions made by CHS residues present in the Walker-B
loop and donor-binding motifs with the substrate (UDP-GlcNAc), and GEDR motif with an acceptor (GlcNAc). Also, the
interactions of the QRRRW motif while forming chitin polymer were explored. We observed that the inhibitors exhibited
good binding affinity with these motifs, indicated by their docking and binding affinity scores.

Conclusion:

In vitro analysis suggested that nikkomycin Z showed higher inhibition of chitin synthase activity at a
concentration of 2.5 µg.L-1
. Our study provided insights into the crucial interactions of chitin synthase while designing
inhibitors against insect pests.
In Silico Docking of Anti Cancerous Drugs with β-Cyclodextrin polymer as a Prominent Approach to Improve the Bioavailability
Authors: Jain Akhlesh K. , Mishra Keerti , Thareja Suresh
Published: October 2020

Background:

β-Cyclodextrin, a cyclic oligosaccharides having 7 macrocyclic rings of glucose
subunits usually linked together by α-1,4 glycosidic bond, bears characteristic chemical structure, with an
exterior portion as hydrophilic to impart water solubility and interior cavity as hydrophobic, for hosting the
hydrophobic molecules.

Objective:

In the present work binding affinities and interactions between various anti-cancerous drugs and β-
cyclodextrin using molecular docking simulations was examined for the bioavailability enhancement of
cytotoxic drugs through improved solubility for the treatment of breast cancer.

Methods:

Molegro Virtual Docker, an integrated software was used for the prediction and estimation of
interaction between β-cyclodextrin and anti cancerous drugs.

Results:

Out of tested anti cancerous drug, Olaparib having pyridopyridazione scaffold possess highest
MolDock (-130.045) and Re-ranks score (-100.717), ensuring strong binding affinity. However, 5-Fluoro Uracil
exhibited the lowest MolDock score (-61.0045), indicating weak or no binding affinity, while few drugs showed
no H-bond interaction with the β-cyclodextrin.

Conclusion:

The binding conformations of anti cancerous drugs obtained from the present study can be selected
for the development of improved formulation having superior solubility which will lead to attain better pharmacological
profile with negligible toxicity.
Hypolipidemic, Antioxidant and Cardioprotective Effects of the Aqueous Extract from Scorzanera Undulata Tubers in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Ajebli Mohammed , Amssayef Ayoub , Eddouks Mohamed
Published: October 2020

Aims:

This study aimed to assess the effect of Scorzanera undulata on plasma lipid profile.

Background:

Scorzanera undulata (S. undulata) is a medicinal plant popularly used in the Moroccan pharmacopeia as traditional medicine, particularly to treat diabetes mellitus.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of aqueous extract of Scorzanera undulata tubers (AERSU)
on lipid profile and atherogenic indices in Wistar rats. Biochemical parameters such as total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides
(TG), low-and high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (LDL and HDL) were assessed. Furthermore, the in vitro antioxidant
activity of AERSU was also evaluated.

Methods:

The effect of tubers aqueous extract (AERSU) of S. undulata (20 mg/kg) on plasma lipid profile was investigated
in normal and streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The aqueous extract was tested for its in vitro antioxidant activity.
In addition cardiovascular parameters were estimated.

Results:

Treatment with AERSU significantly improved the weight in diabetic rats and decreased plasma cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL lipoproteins levels. Furthermore, the extract had a favorable impact on atherogenic index (AI) and coronary
risk index (CRI). In addition, AERSU seems to possess a potent in vitro antioxidant activity.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrates that aqueous Scorzanera undulata extract exhibits antidyslipidemic and antioxidant activities.
New records of genus Culicoides Latreille from Oaxaca, Mexico (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: Huerta Herón , Benítez-Alva José Ismael , Concha-Suarez Jorge , Ibáñez-Piñón Clemente R. , Manrique-Saide Pablo
Published: October 2020

First records of Culicoides ginesi and Culicoides glabellus for Mexico. New distribution records for the state of Oaxaca of the following species are also presented: Culicoides baueri, Culicoides debilipalpis, Culicoides hylas, Culicoides neopulicaris, Culicoides pseudodiabolicus and Culicoides pusillus. Also, new localities for Culicoides foxi, Culicoides insignis, Culicoides jamaicensis and Culicoides ocumarensis are included. A key and table are presented for the known species in the state of Oaxaca.
Assessment of Strategies and Epidemiological Characteristics of Tuberculosis in Henan Province, China: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Jiang Hui , Zhang Guolong , Yin Jinfeng , Zhao Dongyang , Liu Fangchao , Yao Yuxia , Cai Chao , Xu Jiying , Li Xinwei , Xu Wangli , Li Weimin
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

In 2005, China established an internet-based Tuberculosis Information Management System (TBIMS) to monitor changes in tuberculosis (TB). Many scholars have conducted epidemiological research using TBIMS; however, few studies assessing control strategies have been performed based on this platform data. Henan province is a high TB incidence area in China where, in addition to following the nationwide TB strategies, a series of local intervention combinations have been implemented.

OBJECTIVE

Our study aims to evaluate the impact of nationwide TB intervention combinations on epidemiological changes and determine whether Henan province can achieve the World Health Organization’s (WHO) goal of reducing TB incidence by 50% and TB mortality by 75% by the year 2025.

METHODS

We used descriptive statistical methods to show the spatial and temporal distribution of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) reported to the TBIMS database from 2005 to 2018, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors of bacteriological-positive TB. The dynamic compartmental model and Bayesian melding approach was adopted to estimate the burden of TB under the impact of different TB control policies.

RESULTS

In total, 976,526 PTB cases were notified to the TBIMS in Henan in a period of 14 years. Although the overall incidence of PTB declined from 91.4/105 to 58.5/105, and the overall incidence of bacteriological-positive PTB declined from 44.5/105 to 14.7/105, the WHO’s 2025 goal could not be met. The distribution of high incidence and poverty-stricken counties were basically overlapped. Men, farmers and herdsmen (in rural areas), and subjects aged ≥60 years were more likely to develop bacteriological-positive PTB. The increasing treatment success for drug-susceptible tuberculosis and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis has not provided the desired reduction in incidence and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

To achieve the targeted goal, while improving the cure rate of TB, new active (rather than passive) detection and intervention strategies should be formulated based on epidemiological characteristics in Henan province.
Investigating the Use of Virtual Reality Headsets for Postural Control Assessment: Instrument Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Sylcott Brian , Lin Chia-Cheng , Williams Keith , Hinderaker Mark
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Accurately measuring postural sway is an important part of balance assessment and rehabilitation. Although force plates give accurate measurements, their costs and space requirements make their use impractical in many situations.

OBJECTIVE

The work presented in this paper aimed to address this issue by validating a virtual reality (VR) headset as a relatively low-cost alternative to force plates for postural sway measurement. The HTC Vive (HTC Corporation) VR headset has built-in sensors that allow for position and orientation tracking, making it a potentially eﬀective tool for balance assessments.

METHODS

Participants in this study were asked to stand upright on a force plate (NeuroCom; Natus Medical Incorporated) while wearing the HTC Vive. Position data were collected from the headset and force plate simultaneously as participants experienced a custom-built VR environment that covered their entire field of view. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to examine the test-retest reliability of the postural control variables, which included the normalized path length, root mean square (RMS), and peak-to-peak (P2P) value. These were computed from the VR position output data and the center of pressure (COP) data from the force plate. Linear regression was used to investigate the correlations between the VR and force plate measurements.

RESULTS

Our results showed that the test-retest reliability of the RMS and P2P value of VR headset outputs (ICC: range 0.285-0.636) was similar to that of the RMS and P2P value of COP outputs (ICC: range 0.228-0.759). The linear regression between VR and COP measures showed significant correlations in RMSs and P2P values.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our results, the VR headset has the potential to be used for postural control measurements. However, the further development of software and testing protocols for balance assessments is needed.
Ferroptosis in Myocardial Infarction:An Epiphenomenon or Not (Preprint)
Authors: Kang Sheng
Published: October 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

Identification of effective cardiac biomarkers and therapeutic targets for myocardial infarction (MI) will play an important role in early diagnosis and the improving prognosis. Ferroptosis, a cell death process driven by cellular metabolism and iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has been implicated in diseases such as ischaemic organ damage, cancer, and neurological diseases. Its modulators were involved in transferrin receptor, iron chelator, and clock protein ARNTL, etc. Its mechanisms included the inhibition of the system XC-, the diminished GPX4 activity, the change of mitochondrial voltage-dependent anion channels, and the rising intracellular ROS level, etc. Further, the inhibitors of apoptosis, pyroptosis and autophagy did not prevent the occurrence of ferroptosis, but iron chelating agents and antioxidants could inhibit it. Noticeably, ferroptosis is an important pattern of cardiomyocyte death in the infarcted area, which may play a vital role in support of myocardial pathological process of heart disease. However, the molecular mechanism of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis and development of MI is not clear. Therefore, a greater depth of exploration of the mechanism of ferroptosis in MI and ferroptosis inhibitors will undoubtedly improve the pathological process of MI, which is expected to identify ferroptosis as novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets of MI.
An Affordable, User-friendly Telerehabilitation System Assembled Using Existing Technologies for Individuals Isolated With COVID-19: Development and Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Mukaino Masahiko , Tatemoto Tsuyoshi , Kumazawa Nobuhiro , Tanabe Shigeo , Katoh Masaki , Saitoh Eiichi , Otaka Yohei
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Isolation due to a COVID-19 infection can limit activities and cause physical and mental decline, especially in older adults and people with disabilities. However, due to limited contact, adequate rehabilitation is difficult to provide for quarantined patients. Telerehabilitation technology could be a solution; however, issues specific to COVID-19 should be taken into consideration, such as strict quarantine and respiratory symptoms, as well as accessibility to deal with rapid increases in need due to the pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to develop and to investigate the feasibility of a telerehabilitation system for patients who are quarantined due to COVID-19 by combining existing commercial devices and computer applications.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary team has identified the requirements for a telerehabilitation system for COVID-19 and developed the system to satisfy those requirements. In the subsequent feasibility study, patients diagnosed with COVID-19 (N=10; mean age 60 years, SD 18 years) were included. A single session of telerehabilitation consisted of stretching exercises, a 15-minute exercise program, and a video exercise program conducted under real-time guidance by a physical therapist through a video call. The system included a tablet computer, a pulse oximeter, videoconferencing software, and remote control software. The feasibility of the system was evaluated using the Telemedicine Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQ; 14 items) and an additional questionnaire on the telerehabilitation system (5 items). Each item was rated from “1 = strongly disagree” to “5 = strongly agree.”

RESULTS

The telerehabilitation system was developed by combining existing devices and applications, including a pulse oximeter and remote control mechanism, to achieve user-friendliness, affordability, and safety, which were determined as the system requirements. In the feasibility study, 9 out of 10 patients were able to use the telerehabilitation system without any on-site help. On the TSQ, the mean score for each item was 4.7 (SD 0.7), and in the additional items regarding telerehabilitation, the mean score for each item was 4.3 (SD 1.0).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings support the feasibility of this simple telerehabilitation system in quarantined patients with COVID-19, encouraging further investigation on the merit of the system’s use in clinical practice.
Deep Learning Models for Predicting Severe Progression in COVID-19-Infected Patients: Retrospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ho Thao Thi , Park Jongmin , Kim Taewoo , Park Byunggeon , Lee Jaehee , Kim Jin Young , Kim Ki Beom , Choi Sooyoung , Kim Young Hwan , Lim Jae-Kwang , Choi Sanghun
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Many COVID-19 patients rapidly progress to respiratory failure with a broad range of severities. Identification of high-risk cases is critical for early intervention.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to develop deep learning models that can rapidly identify high-risk COVID-19 patients based on computed tomography (CT) images and clinical data.

METHODS

We analyzed 297 COVID-19 patients from five hospitals in Daegu, South Korea. A mixed artificial convolutional neural network (ACNN) model, combining an artificial neural network for clinical data and a convolutional neural network for 3D CT imaging data, was developed to classify these cases as either high risk of severe progression (ie, event) or low risk (ie, event-free).

RESULTS

Using the mixed ACNN model, we were able to obtain high classification performance using novel coronavirus pneumonia lesion images (ie, 93.9% accuracy, 80.8% sensitivity, 96.9% specificity, and 0.916 area under the curve [AUC] score) and lung segmentation images (ie, 94.3% accuracy, 74.7% sensitivity, 95.9% specificity, and 0.928 AUC score) for event versus event-free groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study successfully differentiated high-risk cases among COVID-19 patients using imaging and clinical features. The developed model can be used as a predictive tool for interventions in aggressive therapies.
Medical Students’ Corner: Barriers to Communication During the COVID-19 Pandemic (Preprint)
Authors: Ogunbiyi M Olabisi , Obiri-Darko Emma
Published: October 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

The COVID-19 pandemic has inspired us, as medical students, to reflect upon the communication training we have received in medical school and the obstacles we have faced in the clinic due to COVID-19. We hold the view that our communication training is inadequate; this view is driven by our limited exposure to patients, a situation that is currently being exacerbated by the pandemic. The medical curriculum must be inclusive of all groups and take into account the new challenges arising during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Social Work and Obesity
Authors: Wood Jennifer , Lane Margaret , Mattheus Amber M.
Published: October 2020

Social work is a profession based on social justice and anti-oppressive action. Social workers in direct practice in most states must possess a master’s level graduate degree and have completed internship/practicum placements hours. This higher education and professional development prerequisites within graduate curriculums must begin to include increased acceptance and understanding of diversity and social justice through expanded lenses and move beyond current frameworks of diversity. For example, one such area of diversity that has become an increasing proportion of higher education students are students who identify as obese or “fat,” and are experiencing oppression and stigma in their everyday life. The authors used a grounded approach to analyze 100 accredited graduate social work programs’ curriculum throughout the United States, with the goal of understanding how the topic of obesity and weight-based oppression were integrated into learning curriculums of diversity, social justice, and cultural humility. The authors will discuss “fat culture” and stigma associated with an obese identity, as well as systems that are inherently oppressive to people who are of larger size. The findings revealed evidence of professional disregard for this population in practice, as well as overarching disregard for body size as a dimension of diversity and inclusion on an institutional level. The authors will reflect on these findings and discuss implications for practice, knowledge, and professional and educational pedagogy.
Comportamiento microclimático diurno, en temporada seca, de tres estructuras para agricultura protegida en el trópico seco
Authors: Villagrán Edwin Andres , León pacheco Rommel Igor , Ramírez Matarrita Roberto , Jaramillo Noreña Jorge Eliecer
Published: October 2020

Introducción: En Costa Rica, el uso de estructuras agrícolas protegidas para la producción hortícola se ha incrementado en los últimos años, aunque existe poca información sobre su comportamiento microclimático. Objetivo: Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar el comportamiento de los patrones de flujo de aire y su efecto en la distribución espacial de la temperatura y la humedad relativa dentro de tres tipos de estructuras agrícolas protegidas diseñadas para sistemas agrícolas familiares. Métodos: El estudio se realizó en Guanacaste, Costa Rica, en la época seca de 2019, con un modelo de dinámica de fluidos computacional para el desarrollo de nueve simulaciones de estado estacionario. El modelo 3D se validó experimentalmente mediante la recopilación de información climática en cada uno de los prototipos de estructura. Resultados: Para las tres estructuras, los parámetros de bondad de ajuste entre datos medidos y simulados tuvieron error absoluto medio y error cuadrático medio de 0,21-0,44 °C y 1,65-3,40 % de humedad relativa. Los datos medidos y simulados tuvieron las mismas tendencias; los patrones de flujo de aire dentro de las estructuras dependieron en gran medida de la velocidad y dirección del viento externo. Las condiciones de temperatura y humedad relativa dentro de las tres estructuras tuvieron un comportamiento considerablemente homogéneo. Conclusiones: En las tres pequeñas estructuras agrícolas que probamos, usadas habitualmente en agricultura familiar, no se encontraron diferencias significativas del comportamiento térmico e higrométrico interno en estas condiciones de prueba.
Radical Inside
Authors: Palle Torsson
Published: October 2020

The goal of this work and of my research is to broaden our understanding of contemporary creative conditions in relation to how technologically constructed systems enable cultural production. The work explores specific systems and pushes the limits of their intended use.

In the process, I also hope to reveal the relationship between digital systems and transformative subjects. The work Radical Inside explores 3D models from the largest sharing platform for 3D content. A multiplicity of possibilities opens up as a shift in camera perspective reveals the internal structure of the 3D models. The reorientation points to criticism of how society is structured and imagined by the heteronormative gaze. The unusual angle displaces the normative placement of the model within a reduced and rigid system - the taxonomy and categorization of the platform. From within, I can highlight and explore technology as a fundamentally surreal and queer possibility.
Verktøy som materiale
Authors: Øyvind Brandtsegg
Published: October 2020

In this exposition I wish to point to a type of artistic research evolving around development of technology as artistic material, as an extension to the condition of possibility for an artistic expression. The well known distinction between research *for* and research *in* the arts, in my opinion becomes blurred in these type of works. Those tools developed to facilitate the artistic exploration constitute the base material for the artist, and the development of these tools are an intrinsic part of the artistic process. The examples are shown as recorded sound and video, and the technological material is thus still hidden from the reader. They can not see the material itself, just the traces it leaves. I would argue that the artistic process here starts with the investigation of potential, guiding the development of tools, and the tools will have certain affordances correlating with some aspects of the original artistic spark (desire). The artistic process of exploring said affordances will also in many cases lead to unexpected outcomes, in the interaction between human and machine, artist and tool
Intraspecific variability of some functional traits of Trigonocaryum involucratum (Steven) Medw., a caucasus endemic plant
Authors: Murtazaliev Ramazan , Anatov Dzhalaludin , Ekhvaia Jana , Guseinova Ziyarat , Batsatsashvili Ketevan
Published: October 2020

Plant traits have been used to predict species and community responses to
environmental gradients. We studied variation of leaf area (LA), specific
leaf area (SLA), flowering shoot number and seed mass along an elevation
gradient in the case of Trigonocaryum involucratum, a scree-growing plant
endemic to the Caucasus ecoregion. The study had two major aims: (1) to
compare the role of intra-population and inter-population variation of
functional trait values; and (2) to ascertain dependence between elevation
and trait values and their variation. We collected trait data in several
populations in Dagestan (Russian Federation), where the species has about a
1000-m amplitude of elevational distribution. The intraspecific variability
of trait values was assessed via standard statistical tools (one-way ANOVA
and linear regression analysis). The trait values mostly have high
inter-population variation (more than 90% for each of the trait values
compared to intra-population variation of each trait), indicating adaptation
of populations to site conditions. Much higher intra- vs. inter-population
variation in SLA at subnival elevations indicates local micro-site diversity
and may serve as a buffer against future stress related to climate change.
All the trait values negatively but significantly correlate (weakly or
moderately) with elevation. Negative correlation presumably shows a certain
increase in the limiting effect of the elevation gradient associated with
changes in temperature, soil nutrient availability and soil water content,
as well as with high solar radiation. More evidence from a broader study of
the species throughout its distribution range is needed for firmer
conclusions about the intraspecific variability of T. involucratum.
Morphological variability of leaf and shoot traits of four barberry taxa (Berberis L.) from the Balkan Peninsula and Sicily
Authors: Kremer Dario , Jurisic-Grubesic Renata , Bogunic Faruk , Elefheriadou Eleni , Ballian Dalibor , Kosalec Ivan , Randic Marko , Vukovic-Rodríguez Jadranka , Karlovic Ksenija
Published: October 2020

Leaf and shoot characteristics of the following four European barberry taxa
from the Balkan Peninsula and Sicily were investigated in the present study:
Berberis croatica, B. vulgaris, B. aetnensis and B. cretica. Analyses were
based on 10 populations of B. croatica, five of B. vulgaris and two
populations of both B. aetnensis and B. cretica. Populations were randomly
selected within the natural distribution area of these species. Eight leaf
traits, three shoot traits and the blade length/width ratio were analysed.
Multivariate analysis (principal component analysis, canonical discriminant
analysis and cluster analysis) distinguished B. cretica and B. aetnensis
populations and, to a lesser extent, the populations of B. croatica and B.
vulgaris. ANOVA showed that the analysed populations of both B. aetnensis
and B. cretica were homogeneous within the species. All populations of both
B. croatica and B. vulgaris showed different degrees of intraspecies
variability. Lack of complete separation, the observed grouping of
populations and high intraspecies variability in B. vulgaris and B. croatica
may reflect the fact that the sampled B vulgaris and B.croatica populations
were located at environmentally variable sites (unlike B. aetnensis and B.
cretica), resulting in high phenotypic plasticity in those populations. Even
though the observed patterns of morphological variation support the idea of
four barberry taxa on the Balkan Peninsula and in Sicily, because of
suspected adaptive phenotypic plasticity of the analysed Berberis taxa, the
true taxonomic status of these taxa needs to be additionally confirmed by
molecular methods.
Variations in the water potential of stem xylem in Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) seedlings treated with mycorrhizal fungi under drought conditions
Authors: Toprak Bulent
Published: October 2020

Measures must be taken to reduce the stress caused by water scarcity, which
is the greatest obstacle to increasing the success of afforestation in arid
areas. Precautions such as site preparation and species change do not ensure
sufficient benefits. For this, it is necessary to try alternative methods
such as using mycorrhization of seedlings for afforestation. The aim of the
present study was to obtain Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) seedlings
with high resistance to water stress and ascertain the effects of
mycorrhizae on the water potential of water- stressed seedlings.
Accordingly, we determined the water potentials of seedlings inoculated with
arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Reduction in soil water content caused a
reduction in the water potential of seedlings in all treatment variants.
Mycorrhization reduced stress by increasing the water potential of seedlings
in drought conditions, thereby enhancing their resistance to water stress.
New records and noteworthy data of plants, algae and fungi in SE Europe and adjacent regions, 2
Authors: Tomovic Gordana , Sabovljevic Marko , Djokic Ivana , Petrovic Predrag , Djordjevic Vladan , Lazarevic Predrag , Masic Ermin , Barudanovic Senka , Ștefănuț Sorin , Niketic Marjan , Butorac Branislava , Pantovic Jovana , Hajrudinovic-Bogunic Alma , Bogunic Faruk , Kabas Eva , Vukojicic Snezana , Kuzmanovic Nevena , Djurovic Sanja , Buzurovic Uros
Published: October 2020

This paper presents new records and noteworthy data on the following taxa in
SE Europe and adjacent regions: the diatom alga Eunotia boreoalpina; the
saprotrophic fungus Clitocybe truncicola; the liverwort Haplomitrium
hookeri; the moss Leptodon smithii: the monocots Epipactis purpurata, Stipa
tirsa, Typha laxmannii and T. shuttleworthii; and the dicots
Krascheninnikovia ceratoides, Polygonum albanicum and Sorbus latifolia.
Modern radiotherapy in the treatment of localized prostate cancer
Authors: Stanic Jelena , Stankovic Vesna , Nikitovic Marina
Published: October 2020

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the most prevalent cancers in men and the second leading cause of cancerrelated deaths, after lung cancer. The incidence and mortality from PC worldwide are correlated with increasing age. The treatment of patients is multidisciplinary, with radiotherapy being an integral part, whether applied as an independent method or in combination with surgery or systemic therapy. The technological progress in the middle of the last century, opened up new possibilities in the planning and conducting radiotherapy started the new era of radiotherapy called modern radiotherapy. Today, highly conformal external beam techniques such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volume-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) are used as the gold standard in PC radiotherapy. They enable the precise definition of tumor volume based on modern diagnostic procedures, with maximum sparing of the surrounding organs. Advanced conformal techniques have also led to an escalation of the tumor dose, thus achieving better local control of the disease with significant reduction of early and late complications of treatment, the quality of life of PC patients is preserved. In addition to technological progress, modern radiotherapy includes monitoring the side effects of radiotherapy, and assessment of clinical and individual parameters that affect sensitivity and response to radiation. This should enable personalized radiotherapy with optimization of the treatment for each patient, which is one of the goals of modern oncology.
Regulation and Tax Preparer Qualifications
Authors: Reidenbach Matthew , Sorensen Trevor L. , Treu John S.
Published: October 2020

Tax preparer regulation is a controversial topic among policymakers, the Internal Revenue Service, and certification providers. Proponents claim that regulation protects taxpayers from incompetent preparers, while opponents assert that regulation increases costs and discourages preparers from attaining higher qualifications. Following longstanding regulations in Oregon and California, the IRS implemented the Registered Tax Return Preparer program in 2012, which was unexpectedly invalidated in just its second year. Using this quasi-experimental setting and a unique dataset of all U.S. tax preparers obtained from the IRS, we test the effect of regulation on tax preparer qualifications. We find that tax preparer regulation is positively associated with the proportion of highly qualified tax preparers. We also find that regulation increases (decreases) the likelihood that a market entrant (exiter) is highly qualified. In additional analysis, we find some evidence that tax preparer regulations are associated with increased fees and better tax return quality.

Data Availability: Data are available from the public sources cited in the text.

JEL Classifications: H29; J44; M40.
PLANEJAMENTO E EXECUÇÃO ESTRATÉGICA: AS DIVERGÊNCIAS NO PROCESSO.
Authors: Da Silva Ana Valéria Barbosa , Serralvo Francisco Antonio , Romaro Paulo
Published: October 2020

O assunto estratégia remete a refletir inicialmente sobre planejar e pode induzir o gestor a se preocupar com diagnósticos, análises, identificação de posicionamentos e a busca pela tão almejada vantagem competitiva sustentável. Essa reflexão necessita também que se designe atenção de maneira simultânea à sua execução com todos os seus desdobramentos e obstáculos. Neste estudo o objetivo foi  identificar os obstáculos que levam estratégias com potencial de sucesso a não atingirem os resultados esperados. E a isso somar assuntos correlatos que merecem atenção para que essa formulação e execução aconteçam de modo eficaz destacando temas como complexidade, modos diversos de se pensar estratégia e papel dos gestores. O tema apresenta uma literatura menos volumosa ao comparar com o tema formulação estratégica. A pesquisa de campo, por meio de um estudo de caso, ocorreu em uma representativa Instituição Financeira Brasileira Governamental onde foram aplicados 1020 questionários com um retorno de 380 respondentes cujos dados foram tratados por meio de análise fatorial exploratória utilizando o programa SPSS. O resultado obtido reforça as conclusões de alguns autores referenciados neste estudo, mas demonstra que a relevância dos fatores encontrados pode ser diferente. O obstáculo referente à comunicação apresentou grande destaque.
Vahvan tunnistautumisen käyttömahdollisuus digitaalisiin palveluihin ei ole itsestäänselvyys kaikissa väestöryhmissä Suomessa
Authors: Vehko Tuulikki , Lilja Eero , Parikka Suvi , Aalto Anna-Mari , Kuusio Hannamaria
Published: October 2020

Vahva tunnistautuminen mahdollistaa henkilöllisyyden todentamisen digipalveluissa. Digipalvelut ovat arjen palveluita esimerkiksi laskunmaksu verkkopankissa tai terveystietojen tarkastelu Omakannassa. Selvitämme tutkimuksessa onko eri väestöryhmissä eroja internetin ja vahvan tunnistautumisen käyttömahdollisuudessa.

Aineisto muodostettiin väestökyselyistä: 1) Ulkomailla syntyneiden hyvinvointitutkimus (FinMonik, 2018−2019), joka toteutettiin 18 eri kielellä ja vastausprosentiksi muodostui 53 (N=12 877). 2) Koko väestön Kansallinen terveys-, hyvinvointi- ja palvelututkimus (FinSote, 2017−2018), jonka vastausprosentiksi muodostui 45 (N=26 422). Rajasimme vastukset työikäisiin (20−64 vuotiaisiin) ja analyyseissä käytettiin 6 083 vastausta FinMonikista ja 11 029 FinSotesta. Tulosmuuttujille laskettiin ikävakioidut osuudet ja luottamusvälit. Itseilmoitetulle vahvan tunnistautumisen käyttömahdollisuudelle laskettiin vetosuhteet (odds ratio) logistisella regressiomallinnuksella. Estimaattien eroja maaryhmien ja koko väestön välillä tarkasteltiin F-testiin perustuvilla p-arvoilla.

Työikäisessä väestössä lähes kaikki (98 %) raportoivat, että heillä oli mahdollisuus käyttää internetiä, mutta ulkomaalaistaustaisen väestössä osuus oli matalampi (92 %, p < 0,001). Itseilmoitetun vahvan tunnistautumisen käyttömahdollisuus oli yleisempää koko väestössä (98 %) kuin ulkomaalaistaustaisessa väestössä (88 %, p < 0,001). Ulkomaalaistaustaisessa väestössä Lähi-itä ja Pohjois-Afrikka -taustaiset raportoivat muita ryhmiä harvemmin, että heillä oli mahdollisuus vahvaan tunnistautumiseen. Molemmissa kyselyissä nuorilla itseilmoitettu vahvan tunnistautumisen käyttömahdollisuus oli yleisempää verrattuna vanhempiin henkilöihin ja opiskelijat ilmoittivat työssä olevia harvemmin vahvan tunnistautumisen käyttömahdollisuudesta.

Itseilmoitetussa vahvassa tunnistautumisessa oli väestöryhmittäisiä eroja. Pohdittavaksi jää eritoten palkkatyön merkitys digiosallisuuden kasvattajana. Palkkatyö mahdollistaa varat laitteiden hankintaan, käyttömaksuihin sekä usein kerryttää digiosaamista. Digitaalisia palveluita tarjottaessa huomiota tulisi kiinnittää väestöryhmiin, joissa vahvan tunnistautumisen käyttömahdollisuus on muuta väestöä heikompaa. Digitaalisten palveluiden kehittäminen vaatii rinnalleen ohjausta, jossa huomioidaan neuvonnantarpeet myös vahvan sähköisen tunnistautumisen osalta.
Viestintä osana etäjohtamista terveydenhuollossa
Authors: Ristolainen Mari , Maijala Riikka , Eloranta Sini
Published: October 2020

Etäjohtamisen taitoa tarvitaan yhä useammassa terveydenhuollon yksikössä, mikä haastaa alan johtamisen ja viestinnän. Tämän tutkimuksen tarkoitus oli arvioida etäjohtamisen viestinnän nykytilaa ja sen kehittämistarpeita terveydenhuollossa. Tutkimus toteutettiin sähköisellä kyselyllä Turun yliopistollisen keskussairaalan psykiatrian avohoidon osastonhoitajille (n=15) sekä työntekijöille (n=120) keväällä 2019. Aineisto analysoitiin tilastollisilla menetelmillä ja sisällön erittelyllä.

Tulosten mukaan osastonhoitajien ja työntekijöiden arviot etäjohtamisen viestinnän nykytilasta olivat samansuuntaisia. Etäjohtamisen viestintään ei ollut luotu yhteisiä organisaatiolähtöisiä toimintatapoja. Käytössä oli pääsääntöisesti perinteiset yhteydenpitovälineet, kuten puhelut, tekstiviestit ja sähköposti. Välineiden ja sovellusten käytön osaaminen oli henkilösidonnaista ja niiden käytössä oli puutteita saatavuudessa ja toimivuudessa. Henkilöstön tuttuus ja luottamus liittyivät luontevaan etäyhteydenpitoon. Säännöllisiä kasvotusten toteutuvia palavereja pidettiin edelleen tärkeinä.

Johtopäätöksenä voidaan todeta, että etäjohtamisen ja sen viestinnän onnistumiseksi tulisi yhdessä keskustellen sopia toimintatavat organisaation etäviestintään. Lisäksi etäjohtamisen viestinnän monipuolisten välineiden käyttämiseen tulisi tarjota riittävää tukea ja koulutusta.
COVID-19 triggering homecare professionals’ change of attitudes towards e-Welfare
Authors: Kuoppakangas Päivikki , Lindfors Juha , Stenwall Jari , Kinder Tony , Talonen Antti
Published: October 2020

During 2020, the COVID-19 crisis expanded the use of digital tools in public health and social care. The aim of this qualitative, single-case study was to scrutinize how homecare professionals experienced meaningfulness in their work in the midst of a crisis and with the utilization of the videophone in long-term homecare service provision. The empirical data consisted of 20 thematic interviews carried out among homecare professionals and their managers in the city of Tampere, Finland. The results indicated that the videophone can generate significance, self-realization and broader purposes among homecare professionals, thus providing meaningfulness for work in the midst of a crisis and continuous work-related changes. In addition, a crisis may support change in the meaningfulness of e-welfare in work-related tasks and aid in overcoming reluctance amongst public-sector social care (homecare) professionals towards an e-welfare initiative: the videophone (VideoVisit).
ANALISIS YURIDIS MENGENAI PENTINGNYA KLAUSULA PILIHAN HUKUM DAN/ATAU PILIHAN FORUM DALAM KONTRAK BISNIS INTERNASIONAL
Authors: Prajugo Michael Saputra
Published: October 2020

One sphere regulated by International Civil Law is international business contracts which contain foreign elements. The existence of foreign elements in international business contracts is followed by the emergence of the freedom of the parties to determine choice of law and/or choice of forum. Without the inclusion of choice of law and/or choice of forum clauses, problems will arise about which country’s law applies and which forum is authorized to resolve international business contract disputes. One important thing related to choice of law and/or choice of forum in international business contracts is the limitations toward them. The research question is what are the limitations toward choice of law and/or choice of forum in international business contracts?. The research method used is juridical normative with statute approach and conceptual approach as problem approaches. The result of the research explicates in general, the limitations toward choice of law and/or choice of the forum in international business contracts are the limitations determined in Article 1339 of the Civil Code namely not contrary to propriety, customs, laws, and applicable legal system in every country. The parties need to understand the limitations toward choice of law and/or choice of forum clauses in international business contracts and implement them when making choice of law and/or choice of forum clauses so these clauses are not null and void.
CONTEXT FOR DESIGNING A MA PROGRAMME IN NORWEGIAN LITERARY AND NON-LITERARY TRANSLATIONS AT BABEȘ-BOLYAI UNIVERSITY
Authors: TOMESCU BACIU Sanda , POP Raluca , DREVE Roxana-Ema , RĂDUȚ Raluca‐Daniela , ØVERLAND Fartein Thorsen , MUREȘAN Ioana-Andreea
Published: October 2020

Context for Designing a MA programme in Norwegian Literary and Non-Literary Translations at Babeș-Bolyai University. This study aims to explore the degree of motivation of current BA students and alumni as concerns their enrolment for a pilot MA-programme in Norwegian literary and non-literary translations at Babeș-Bolyai University (BBU). Details are provided regarding the context for designing such a unique master’s programme and the academic perspectives, as well as job opportunities that can be envisaged. A total of 147 respondents were included in this study and selected using convenience sampling. A structured questionnaire comprising open-ended and closed questions items was formulated in Romanian and sent online to respondents via Google forms. The study concludes that 95.2% of the respondents would be interested in enrolling for this pilot MA programme Norwegian literary and non-literary translations and thus, further consolidate their skills in Norwegian acquired during the BA programme in Norwegian language and literature.
REZUMAT: Contextul dezvoltării unui program masteral în domeniul traducerilor ficționale şi non-ficționale, în limba norvegiană, la Universitatea Babeș-Bolyai. Acest studiu își propune să exploreze gradul de motivație al actualilor studenți și al absolvenților specializării Limbă și literatură norvegiană în ceea ce privește interesul pentru înscrierea acestora la un program pilot de master în domeniul traducerilor ficționale și nonficționale la Universitatea Babeș-Bolyai (UBB). Sunt oferite detalii cu privire la contextul proiectării unui astfel de program masteral și al perspectivelor academice, precum și al oportunităților de muncă ce pot fi avute în vedere. Un total de 147 de respondenți au fost incluși în acest studiu și au fost selectați utilizând eșantionarea de comoditate. Un chestionar structurat cuprinzând itemi cu întrebări deschise și închise a fost formulat în limba română și trimis online către respondenți prin intermediul aplicației formulare Google. Studiul concluzionează faptul că 95,2% dintre respondenți ar fi interesați să se înscrie la acest program masteral desfășurat în limba norvegiană în domeniul traducerilor ficționale și nonficționale. Acest demers va susține consolidarea competențelor lingvistice în limba norvegiană dobândite în timpul programului de licență – Limbă și literatura norvegiană.
Cuvinte cheie: limba norvegiană, program masterat, traduceri ficționale, traduceri nonficționale, învățământ superior, Universitatea Babeș-Bolyai.