bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Unusual Case of Anderson-Fabry Disease: Case Report
Authors: Mohta Alpana , Mohta Achala , Kumari Pramila
Published: January 2024

Angiokeratoma is a group of capillary malformations characterized by the formation of variably sized dark red hyperkeratotic papules. Initially, it was believed that angiokeratoma corporis diffusum was a telltale sign of Anderson-Fabry disease; however, current consensus states that it is also seen in various other lysosomal enzymatic deficiencies. In this report, we present the case of a 12-year-old boy who developed angiokeratoma corporis diffusum with sensorineural deafness, acroparesthesias, and renal involvement.
Social Determinants of Mental Health in Sexual and Gender Minority Youth Across Florida One Year After COVID-19 Shutdown: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Naar Sylvie , Mills Jon , Pooler-Burgess Meardith , Skeen Simone , Lim Andrew , Green Sara , George Avery , Pickett Scott
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased mental health concerns among adolescent and emerging adults, and sexual and gender minority youth are vulnerable for elevated mental health symptoms and social determinants of health

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the current study was to describe relationships of social determinants of health domains and mental health outcomes in sexual and gender minority (SG) youth across Florida after the COVID-19 shut down.

METHODS

Youth advisors chose measures and developed items in collaboration with academic partners. A Florida-geofenced digital marketing campaign recruited SGM youth (ages 15-29) via social media advertisements between May and December 2021. Measures included self-report of demographics and several social determinants of health and validated mental health screeners for depression, anxiety and trauma symptoms.

RESULTS

Youth showed high levels of mental heatlh symptoms, especially in the domain of traumaa. Multiple logistic regression showed that food insecurity and being evicted in the past 5 years were associated with increased odds of having symptoms in all three models. Having an unmet healthcare need, past mistreatment by a provider and employment status were all associated with PTSD, and not having health insurance was associated with anxiety symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

A statewide survey of SGM youth across Florida approximately one year after COVID-19 shutdown revealed a high prevalence of mental health concerns. Two domains of social determinants of health were consistently related to elevated symptoms, feeling mistreated by a health care provider and having food insecurity. Interventions that address provider training and navigation models to mitigate social determinants are warranted.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not a clinical trial.
Effects of Combined Visual-Motor Response Training on Cognitive Function and Brain Plasticity Mechanisms in Various Populations: Protocol for a Single-Center, Open-Label, Controlled Clinical Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Yu Wenlong , Gao Jiamin , Zhu Ping
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment is one of the major diseases facing the aging population. The progressive decline of cognitive function can lead to declining health or even the loss of life, work, and social ability. Exercise and behavioral stimulation can increase neurotransmitters in the brain and improve overall health and cognitive function. Reactivity training can mobilize neuromuscular function and induce changes in brain plasticity, which may effectively improve cognitive dysfunction and delay the occurrence and development of Alzheimer disease; however, the evidence supporting its effectiveness is still limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the effectiveness and reliability of visual-motor reaction training in improving cognitive function, thereby promoting the application of novel nonpharmacological therapies.

METHODS

This study is a single-center, open-label, controlled clinical trial. A total of 78 participants will be recruited for the study, including an equal number of athletes, ordinary healthy college students, and ordinary older adults in the community. Participants will receive 2 weeks of visual-motor response training. The primary outcome of this study is to assess differences in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) at 2 weeks. The secondary outcomes were the following: acousto-optic response time, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Activity of Daily Living (ADL) Scale, Subjective Cognitive Decline Questionnaire–9 (SCD-Q9), a 10-word memory test, and safety.

RESULTS

The study was approved by the Shanghai Clinical Research Ethics Committee on January 2, 2024 (SECCR/2023-162-01). As of September 11, 2024, we have completed the recruitment of all 3 groups of volunteers. We expect to complete data collection and analysis by February 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

The purpose of this study is to compare improvements in brain perceptual motor functions and cognitive levels across different populations through response ability training and to explore the efficacy and safety of exercise-based nonpharmacological therapies in improving cognitive function. Other potential benefits include understanding the functional differences and perceptual characteristics of the brain’s perceptual-motor system between athletes and the general population and exploring the adaptability of the brain in acquiring skills during competitive sports training. This could provide an evidence base for early sports talent development and broader youth development.

CLINICALTRIAL

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2400079602; https://tinyurl.com/23fbbndw

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/56424
A Cost-Benefit Analysis of Building a Dam in Pakistan: To Mitigate Floods, Promote Tourism, Boost Agriculture, and Generate Electricity
Authors: Ismail Shahzad
Published: January 2024

Every year, Pakistan is on the verge of a serious water crisis. It is expected that the crisis of water shortages in Pakistan will reach an alarming level in the near future. Water degradation, climate change, particularly recent global warming, overuse, misuse, diminishing water availability, a lack of water management policies, pollution, population growth, and environmental neglect have all contributed to this crisis. This has undermined Pakistan's economy. Floods in Pakistan have adversely affected livestock, infrastructure, lives, and property, as well as agricultural land and crops. Floods negatively impact agricultural production and the country's economy without adequate water management. The travel and tourism sector in Pakistan plays a crucial role in the country's economy and contributes to its growth and development. However, despite its potential, this sector remains unsatisfied and faces several challenges and limitations. Furthermore, Pakistan faces a persistent electricity shortfall that has led to the implementation of load shedding across the country. The shortage in electricity supply has become a significant issue for both businesses and consumers, impacting the economy and overall quality of life. This paper examines the cost-benefit analysis of building a dam to reduce flood damage, promote tourism, and boost agriculture and electricity. It is difficult to provide accurate estimates of dam construction costs due to a lack of precise information. So many assumptions have been made to complete the analysis. There will also be a sensitivity analysis to test some assumptions.
Etiology and management of citrus Melanose disease in Pakistan: A review
Authors: Ateeq Muhammad , Mubeen Mustansar , Bashir Sonum
Published: January 2024

Diaporthe species are important pathogens of many hosts, including economically important crops. They cause severe melanose disease, stem-end rot of fruits, and gummosis of perennial plants worldwide. Among the Diaporthe species, Diaporthe citri is responsible for causing melanose disease. Melanose disease harms fruit, leaves, twigs, branches, and in certain cases, the main stem of trees of any age. The melanose infection can affect practically all citrus cultivars. Citrus melanose disease is a persistent and incurable disease leading to a massive loss of output in the citrus industry. Due to the lack of resistant cultivars, the failure of chemical treatments, and the dangers to environmental health, large-scale research is being conducted to develop a long-term remedy. Recently, biological control agents (BCAs) have been used as an alternative to fungicides to manage citrus melanose disease. In this review, we highlighted some significant aspects of melanose disease (Diaporthe citri) in citrus, such as its history, morphology, disease cycle, pathogenicity symptoms, and impact on the economy of the citrus industry. The current literature assists the researchers in averting melanose disease in citrus, developing genetically resistant cultivars, and ecofriendly management against Diaporthe citri. Keywords: Diaporthe citri, Melanose, Symptoms, Transmission, Disease cycle, Control management
Driver Drowsiness Detection using CNN
Authors: Bankar Jaitee
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This research introduces a Driver Drowsiness Detection system employing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). The system analyses real-time facial features from in-vehicle cameras to determine a driver's alertness level. Trained on diverse datasets, the CNN model demonstrates high accuracy in identifying drowsiness signs, making it suitable for real-world deployment. This system contributes to road safety by providing timely alerts to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue. As road safety remains a critical concern, the development of intelligent systems to mitigate driver-related risks has become imperative. Driver drowsiness is a major factor contributing to road accidents, emphasizing the need for robust and real-time detection mechanisms. This research presents a novel approach for Driver Drowsiness Detection using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). The proposed system utilizes CNN architecture to analyse facial features extracted from real-time video streams captured by an in-vehicle camera. Facial landmarks and expressions are processed to determine the driver's level of alertness. The CNN model is trained on a diverse dataset comprising both drowsy and alert facial expressions, ensuring its adaptability to different driving conditions and individual characteristics. The system's effectiveness is evaluated through extensive experiments using various datasets and scenarios. The results demonstrate the CNN's capability to accurately identify signs of driver drowsiness, achieving high precision and recall rates. Furthermore, the model's real-time processing capabilities make it suitable for deployment in practical, on-road scenarios. The proposed Driver Drowsiness Detection system presents a promising solution to enhance road safety by providing timely alerts to drivers when signs of drowsiness are detected. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into vehicle safety systems, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents caused by driver fatigue.
AI and Cyber Security with Reference to Information Technology Act, 2000 and other Laws in India
Authors: Choudhary Dr. Swapnil
Published: January 2024

Abstract: The term artificial intelligence (AI) is prominent in today’s world of technology. In so many ways, it is still a developing science considering the problems presented by the twenty-first century. AI use has been established in daily life. Since AI has such a significant influence on human existence now, it is difficult to comprehend a world without it. Simply define, artificial intelligence (AI) is the study of how people think, work, learn, and decide in every situation in life, whether it is connected to problem-solving, learning something new, thinking logically, or coming up with a solution, etc. If Artificial Intelligence mostly connected with the daily life of the human being it must be protect the relationship between the human being and society people and there should be remedy to the peoples in case of violation of laws by AI machines. Cyber security and cyber law already new concept in the development of modern laws of the country. Cybercrimes are becoming common and frequently reported in the news. It is a global challenge, not simply one that affects one nation. AI is meaningless without strong security measures since it may be readily accessible by outsiders. Governments, banks, and global corporations now face a serious threat because of cyber security threats. Hackers use a lot of private and business data to their advantage, which poses a serious threat to the online community
Western Balkans: External Actors Before and During the Current Crisis
Authors: Arlyapova Elena S. , Ponomareva Elena G.
Published: January 2024

The Western Balkans has been and remains a particularly dense zone in terms of the number of actors present, where the interests of all the leading actors in world politics are bizarrely intertwined. The Ukrainian crisis has added spice to the Balkan agenda, reviving “frozen conflicts” not only within the borders of the region but also beyond its perimeter. Directly dependent on the outcome of the armed confrontation in Ukraine and separately from it, a clash or, at least, an intensification of external actors in the Balkan direction seems inevitable. The historical-systemic approach used in the study and the paradigm of multipolarity made it possible to trace the probable directions of activity of both regional and external actors. Based on a wide range of sources, the work provides a panorama of the foreign policy positioning of regional capitals; identifies major and minor external actors; shows the transformation of approaches and practical steps of key actors through the prism of the ongoing crisis. External actors - the European Union (EU), China, Great Britain, Russia and the United States - are divided into groups in accordance with their positions regarding the pre-crisis Balkans and the Balkans in the face of the fierce confrontation between Russia and the West. Among Western interests, special attention is paid to Great Britain, whose activity in the Western Balkans after Brexit is affiliated with the West in general, but not with the United States (despite all the history of strategic partnership in the region) and, moreover, with the EU separately. Against the background of the dominance of Western institutions in the region, the paper traces, however, the growing role of China, as well as external actors of the “second plan” with an oriental flavor: Türkiye, Iran, and the states of the Persian Gulf. An analysis of Russia’s prospects in the region has shown that the crisis in the system of international relations has largely nullified the results achieved earlier. The degree of Russia’s involvement in the crisis raises the question of its resource capacity, the ability to further maintain its own positions. Additional difficulties will be associated with the consolidated efforts of the Western allies and other external actors, including China, to balance Russian influence and presence in the Western Balkans.
Azerbaijani-Iranian Relations After the Second Karabakh War: Features and Trends
Authors: Aghazada Mirmehdi M.
Published: January 2024

The study presents an analysis of bilateral relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan (RA) and the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI) after the Second Karabakh War (SKW), identifying the sources of tension and new trends in their relations. On the one hand, the participation of RA and IRI in large-scale Eurasian transport and logistics projects allows both countries to play a special role in regional politics, and on the other hand, the full-fledged security of the South Caucasus region, including its current position in the system of international relations, largely depends on the level and quality of Azerbaijani-Iranian relations. The purpose of this study is to identify the features and trends of Azerbaijani-Iranian relations after the Second Karabakh War. The author analyzes the reasons for the aggravation of bilateral relations after the SKW in terms of domestic and foreign policy factors. If ethno-political and religious-ideological factors are considered as domestic political reasons, then the nature of the development of relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Israel, and Iran and Armenia is assessed as a foreign policy aspect that led to the deterioration of Azerbaijani-Iranian relations. In addition, conducting military exercises by the two countries near the Azerbaijani-Iranian state border, the position of the Iranian authorities against the opening of the Zangezur corridor, and the attack on the Azerbaijani embassy in Tehran at the end of January 2023 also contributed to the deepening of the escalation between the RA and the IRI. Along with this, a new positive trend is also emerging in bilateral relations. The volume of trade turnover between the two countries has traditionally decreased during crisis situations; however, despite the fact that Azerbaijani-Iranian political relations are currently experiencing the worst period in their history, the development of relations in the trade and economic spheres is observed, which is a new trend in the interactions between Baku and Tehran. Thus, not only the problems caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus infection in the economies of the two countries, but also the intensification of work on transport projects in the South Caucasus create conditions for maintaining and increasing the level of trade and economic relations.
Book Review: Zvyagelskaya, I. D. (2022). The Struggle for the Eastern Mediterranean: Interests and Ambitions. Moscow: Aspekt Press publ., 288 p. (In Russian)
Authors: Kirichenko Vladimir P.
Published: January 2024

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The role of governance mechanisms in trust-building strategies: A comparative analytical study in public and private banks
Authors: Mhaibes Hussam Ali , Al-Janabi Akram Salim Hasan , Hussein Sahraa Anwer
Published: January 2024

The study aims to build a model that enhances trust-building for public and private banks to compare and determine the significant differences between public and private banks, by testing the impact of governance mechanisms (transparency, accountability, justice, independence, and social responsibility) (Agere, 2000) on trust-building strategies (trust and trust building, people management, work relations, training and development, leadership practices, and communications) (Ngalo, 2011; Stone et al., 2005), to indicate the level of employees’ awareness of the theoretical contents of the two variables and their importance to banking work, with the aim of improving performance. The main question is the role of governance mechanisms in supporting trust-building strategies. The questionnaire was distributed to two stratified random samples, the first in public banks consisting of 62 individuals and the second in private banks consisting of 61 individuals. It followed the descriptive analytical comparative approach. One of the most important results is that there are significant differences between the two samples, and the weight is weighted in favor of public banks in relation to trust-building strategies with customers. Despite the use of outdated working methods, the conclusions pointed to the tangible role of governance mechanisms in supporting trust-building strategies.
The effects of corporate governance on environmental, social and governance performance: Evidence from the U.S. banking sector
Authors: Capuano Paolo
Published: January 2024

The topic of this study falls within that line of research that seeks to understand whether corporate governance and in particular the composition and activity of a company’s board of directors can influence its ESG performance. This study seeks to fill gap in the literature by analyzing the relationship between bank board composition (the main independent variables are gender diversity, independence, size, activity, and ESG/CSR committee) and performance of the ESG dimensions.
Career adaptability as a mediating factor for personality towards entrepreneurial intention
Authors: Tsaknis Panagiotis A. , Xanthopoulou Panagiota I. , Patitsa Christina D. , Sahinidis Alexandros G.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine the direct effect of the HEXACO personality traits on entrepreneurial intention and career adaptability, the indirect effect of personality traits on entrepreneurial intention through career adaptability and the direct effect of career adaptability on entrepreneurial intention.
The importance of quality in the relation between external auditing and governance: The case of Greece
Authors: Yiannoulis Yiannis , Vortelinos Dimitrios I.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine whether a model based on financial ratios and non-financial variables can predict auditors’ opinions (qualified or not) using a sample of 90 companies listed in the Athens Exchange for the period between 2018 and 2022. Our results showed that there exists high explanatory power between financial ratios and auditor quality (type of audit firm) and qualifications in auditors’ reports. External audit denotes the uniqueness of external governance mechanisms that guarantee the quality of reported financial information. For that reason, an auditor’s report is a plausible tool in order to validate the availability of financial information.
Unlocking MSME Performance: The Interplay of Financial Literacy, Financial Inclusion, and Financial Technology Lending with Venture Capital Mediation
Authors: Hasanudin Hasanudin , Panigfat Fahrudin
Published: January 2024

Studying the dynamic relationship among financial literacy, financial inclusion, fintech lending, and business capital mediation in the context of MSME performance is intriguing due to the intricate interconnections between these variables. This paper sought to assess the effect of financial literacy, financial inclusion, and fintech lending on the MSME performance in North Maluku Province, Sula Islands Regency, Sanana District, Indonesia. This research employed business capital as the mediating variable. Using a structural equation modelling, this study indicates that financial literacy, financial inclusion, and fintech lending have a positive and significant effect on the performance of micro, small, and medium enterprises. The presence of business capital can serve as a mediating factor in how financial literacy, financial inclusion, and fintech lending affect the performance of micro, small, and medium enterprises.
An emulator of stratocumulus cloud response to two cloud-controlling factors accounting for natural variability.
Authors: Sansom Rachel W. N. , Carslaw Ken S , Lee Lindsay , Johnson Jill S.
Published: January 2024

Large uncertainties persist in modeling shallow, low clouds because
there are many interacting nonlinear processes and multiple
cloud-controlling environmental factors. In addition, sharp changes in
behavior can occur when environmental thresholds are met. Model studies
that follow a traditional approach of exploring the effects of factors
“one-at-a-time” are unable to capture interactions between factors. We
simulate a stratocumulus cloud based on the Second Dynamics and
Chemistry of Marine Stratocumulus field study using a large-eddy
simulation model coupled with a two-moment cloud microphysics scheme.
The simulations are used to train a Gaussian process emulator, which we
then use to visualize the relationships between two cloud-controlling
factors and domain-averaged cloud properties. Only 29 model simulations
were required to train the emulators, which then predicted cloud
properties at thousands of new combinations of the two factors. Emulator
response surfaces of cloud liquid water path and cloud fraction show two
behavioral regimes, one of thin and patchy yet steady stratocumulus and
one of thick, growing stratocumulus with cloud fraction near 1. Natural
variability (initial-condition uncertainty) creates unrealistic
“bumpy” response surfaces. However, we show that the variability
causing the bumpiness can be characterized in an emulator “nugget
term” that is adjusted to match the distribution of a small number of
initial-condition ensemble simulations at various points on the surface,
thereby allowing a smoother, deterministic response surface to be
constructed. Accounting for variability leads to the firm conclusion
that there is a smooth but steep change in cloud behavior between
regimes, but not a sharp transition.
Unsteady Land-Sea Breeze Circulations in the Presence of a Synoptic Pressure Forcing
Authors: Allouche Mohammad , Bou-Zeid Elie , Iipponen Juho
Published: January 2024

Unsteady land-sea breezes (LSBs) resulting from time-varying surface
thermal contrasts Δθ(t) are explored in the presence of a constant
synoptic pressure forcing, Mg, when the latter is oriented from sea to
land (α=0°), versus land to sea (α=180°). Large eddy simulations reveal
the development of four distinctive regimes depending on the joint
interaction between (Mg, α) and Δθ(t) in modulating the fine-scale
dynamics. Time lags, computed as the shifts that maximize correlation
coefficients of the dynamics between transient and the corresponding
steady state scenarios at Δθ=Δθmax, are found to be significant and to
extend 2 hours longer for α=0° compared to α=180°. These diurnal
dynamics result in non-equilibrium flows that behave differently over
the two patches for both α’s. Turbulence is found to be out of
equilibrium with the mean flow, and the mean itself is found to be out
of equilibrium with the thermal forcing. The sea surface heat flux is
consistently more sensitive than its land counterpart to the
time-varying external forcing Δθ(t), and more so for synoptic forcing
from land-to-sea (α=180°). Hence, although the land reaches equilibrium
faster, the sea patch is found to exert a stronger control on the final
turbulence-mean flow equilibrium response. Finally, vertical velocity
profile at the shore and shore-normal velocity transects at the first
grid level are shown to encode the multiscale regimes of the LSBs
evolution, and can thus be used to identify these regimes using k-means
clustering.
Skillful Multiyear Sea Surface Temperature Predictability in CMIP6 Models and Historical Observations
Authors: Davenport Frances V. , Barnes Elizabeth A. , Gordon Emily M
Published: January 2024

We use neural networks and large climate model ensembles to explore
predictability of internal variability in sea surface temperature
anomalies on interannual (1-3 year) and decadal (1-5 and 3-7 year)
timescales. We find that neural networks can skillfully predict SST
anomalies at these lead times, especially in the North Atlantic, North
Pacific, Tropical Pacific, Tropical Atlantic and Southern Ocean. The
spatial patterns of SST predictability vary across the nine climate
models studied. The neural networks identify “windows of opportunity”
where future SST anomalies can be predicted with more certainty. Neural
networks trained on climate models also make skillful SST predictions in
historical observations, although the skill varies depending on which
climate model the network was trained. Our results highlight that neural
networks can identify predictable internal variability within existing
climate datasets and show important differences in how well patterns of
SST predictability in climate models translate to the real world.
Reproducing the present-day mantle structure using forward mantle convection models since the Cretaceous
Authors: Pal Debanjan , Ghosh Attreyee
Published: January 2024

Seismic tomography models show distinct slab structures at different
subduction zones and the dominance of degree-2 mantle structure near the
core-mantle boundary (CMB). In order to understand how the observed
present-day mantle structure came into being, we employ plate-motion
history starting from 140 Ma till the present day in global mantle
convection models. We tune model parameters such as the effect of
different viscosities in the weak layer below 660, weaker asthenosphere
and slabs, internal heat generation rate, Clapeyron slope and density
change across 660, density and viscosity of thermochemical piles above
the CMB, and model duration, to investigate their effect on the
predicted mantle structure. We do a quantitative comparison with the
predicted present-day mantle structure from our convection models and
the seismic tomography models S40RTS and TX2019S, using the long
wavelength geoid anomaly as an additional constraint. We find that
distinct and linear slab structures are generated when the asthenosphere
is moderately weak and stronger slabs are present. The slabs also need
to be strong enough since as they sink into the mantle, they sweep the
Large Low Shear Velocity provinces (LLSVPs) underneath Africa and the
Pacific and generate plumes along their edges. The shape and location of
our predicted LLSVPs and slabs are consistent with those in the
tomography models. Some of the predicted plume locations are consistent
with the real Earth hotspot locations, although the plume structures do
not match those in the tomography models. We find that these predicted
plumes are integral in fitting the geoid at the intermediate
wavelengths. Introducing a moderate Clapeyron slope (-2.5 MPa/K) at 660
does not drastically affect the predicted slab structure. A stronger
negative Clapeyron slope resists mass transfer across 660, causing
widespread slab stagnation and stalling of plumes at this discontinuity.
The predicted present-day mantle structure and the geoid are similar
in thermal or thermochemical cases with slightly dense LLSVPs. However,
making the LLSVPs highly viscous or more dense hinders plume generation
and degrades the fit to the observed geoid. Through this modelling
effort, we attempt to constrain the values of various parameters that
have an effect on the predicted mantle structure.
An Empirical Predictive Model for Atmospheric H Lyman-a Emission Brightness at Mars
Authors: Mayyasi Majd , Mayyasi Adil M
Published: January 2024

Characterizing the abundance of atmospheric hydrogen (H) at Mars is
critical for determining the current and, subsequently, the primordial
water content on the planet. At present, the atmospheric abundance of
Martian H is not directly measured but is simulated using proprietary
models that are constrained with observations of H Lyman-a emission
brightness, as well as with observations of other atmospheric
parameters, such as temperature and solar UV irradiance. To make the
data needed to model H abundances and escape rates more accessible to
the community, this work utilizes over nine years of observations of H
Lyman-a emissions made with the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution
(MAVEN) mission. The H brightness in the upper atmosphere of Mars is
analyzed for statistical variability across multiple variables and found
to be dependent on solar illumination, solar cycle, and season. The
resulting data trends are used to derive empirical fits to build a
predictive framework for future observations or an extrapolative tool
for primordial estimates. Data that was intentionally not included in
the empirical derivations are used to validate the predictions and found
to reproduce the H Lyman-a brightness to within 18% accuracy, on
average. This first of its kind predictive model for H brightness is
presented to the community and can be used with atmospheric models to
further derive and interpret the abundances and escape rate of H atoms
at Mars.
Osnovni krajiški zakon iz 1807. godine u svjetlu dosadašnjih istraživanja i istraživačkih perspektiva
Authors: Milković Kristina
Published: January 2024

U članku je problematiziran Osnovni krajiški zakon iz 1807. koji je Franjo I. (1792. – 1835.) proglasio za područje Hrvatsko-slavonske i Banatske vojne krajine. Analiziran je sadržaj zakona raspoređen u sedam poglavlja i 155 zakonskih članaka te izvorno objavljen na njemačkom i preveden već iduće godine na hrvatski i slavenosrpski jezik. Zakon je donesen u specifičnim povijesnim okolnostima koalicijskih ratova i u duhu reformi dvorskoga kruga oko vladara Franje I. Njegov sadržaj rezultat je višegodišnjega rada nekoliko dvorskih povjerenstava, pri čemu se osobito nastojalo steći uvid u konkretne probleme sustava kao i vojnokrajišku svakodnevicu da bi novim zakonom ponudila trajnija rješenja koja bi obuhvatila interese države, ali i krajiškoga puka. Zbog potrebe očuvanja vojnokrajiškoga sustava ta su rješenja ipak morala biti ograničena.
„Pozdrav Starčev i moj… tvoji večno po veri”: političko-društveni portret pravaša-plemića Eduarda Halpera Sigetskog (1824. – 1877.)
Authors: Klaužer Vedran
Published: January 2024

Eduard Halper Sigetski (Škarićevo kod Krapine, 14. prosinca 1824. – 23. kolovoza 1877.) pripadao je plemićkoj obitelji Halpera Sigetskih podrijetlom iz Ugarske, koji su svoje posjede, nakon dolaska u Hrvatsku u drugoj polovini 18. stoljeća i primanja u red hrvatskoga plemstva, stekli na širem području Hrvatskoga zagorja, točnije unutar Zagrebačke i Varaždinske županije (Martinci, Pavlovec, Pluska, Luka, Sela, Donje Turnišće, Hum i Zajezda) s centralnim posjedom u Škarićevu pokraj Krapine. Članovi obitelji bili su aktivni u političkom i upravnom životu civilne Hrvatske cijelo 19. stoljeće. Ta se aktivnost manifestirala obnašanjem službi odvjetnika i kotarskih sudaca Varaždinske županije, koje je pratio i ulazak u Sabor izborom za narodnoga zastupnika kotareva Klanjec i Sv. Križ (Nikola i Eduard Halper Sigetski). Upravo će Eduard Halper Sigetski dolaskom pod utjecaj pravaških ideja 1860-ih uz vršenje dužnosti kotarskoga suca u Malom Taboru, a zatim i suca u Pregradi, činiti glavni stup i žarište djelovanja Stranke prava u Hrvatskom zagorju. Uz već poznata saznanja o Halperovoj financijskoj potpori pravašima, poput plaćanja kaucije za pokretanje i tiskanje stranačkoga lista Hervatska, te političkom djelovanju prema vrhu stranke (sudjelovanja na stranačkim sastancima, optiranja za saborska mjesta), u radu će se prikazati i njegovo djelovanje na lokalnoj razini u političkom, društvenom i kulturnom aspektu, čime će se upotpuniti rekonstrukcija političkoga portreta. Pritom će okosnicu činiti analizirani podaci iz pisama koja su mu u tom razdoblju pisali prvaci Stranke prava Ante Starčević i Eugen Kvaternik. U radu će se prikazati društvena i politička aktivnost Eduarda Halpera Sigetskog, tj. njegovo političko djelovanje kao člana Stranke prava od 1869. do 1875. godine.
Efektywność ekonomiczna gospodarstw z produkcją tytoniu
Authors: Figurski Tomasz
Published: January 2024

Celem opracowania jest rozpoznanie efektywności ekonomicznej gospodarstw z produkcją tytoniu w Polsce. W badaniach wykorzystano dane zgromadzone w systemie FADN (Farm Accountancy Data Network). Wyniki badań wykazały, że produkcja tytoniu jest prowadzona przez małe, wyspecjalizowane gospodarstwa, dla których ten kierunek produkcji jest podstawowym źródłem dochodów. Wyniki ekonomiczne badanych gospodarstw w znacznym stopniu zależały od pomocy państwa w postaci krajowych płatności uzupełniających dla plantatorów tytoniu. W kontekście zmian zachodzących we wspólnej polityce rolnej (WPR), a w szczególności tendencji do odłączania płatności od produkcji, uzależnienie to może znacznie utrudniać przystosowanie się do zmieniających się warunków funkcjonowania na wspólnotowym rynku.
Situation of Economic Research in Slovakia
Authors: Bielik Peter , Hupková Daniela
Published: January 2024

The aim of the paper is to determine the situation in higher education and research area in Slovakia and to compare this development with the EU 27 and OECD countries. The interest is oriented on the economic research as an instrument between Slovakia, EU 27 and World in overall research indicators. The principal problem is insufficient funding of Research and development. Despite this fact an improvement occurred in the Science and Research category of indicators during recent years in Slovakia.
Rolnictwo w Polsce na tle sytuacji ogólnoekonomicznej kraju w okresie kryzysu 2007-2009
Authors: Grzelak Aleksander , Czyżewski Andrzej
Published: January 2024

W artykule podjęto problem oceny sytuacji rolnictwa na tle tendencji ogólnoekonomicznych w okresie 2007-2009. Do stabilizatorów rozwoju rolnictwa w Polsce zaliczyć można: wsparcie tego sektora poprzez instrumenty polityki interwencyjnej, a zwłaszcza płatności bezpośrednie, jak również względnie mało elastyczny popyt na żywność. Nie bez znaczenia jest także stabilny poziom stopy akumulacji. Z tego względu sektor ten jest względnie odporny na występujące zjawiska kryzysowe na świecie. W Polsce dostosowania rynkowe w rolnictwie po 2004 r. sprowadzały się głównie do zacieśnienia kontaktów z rynkiem poprzez wzrost wartości produkcji, nakładów, modernizację gospodarstw. Po roku 2007 odnotowano pogorszenie sytuacji ekonomicznej rolnictwa w Polsce. Trudno ją uznać za kryzysową. W znacznej mierze wynikała ona z uwarunkowań rynkowych, głównie pogorszenia relacji cenowych.
Oddziaływanie zmian aktywności gospodarczej na redystrybucję dochodów w sektorze rolnym
Authors: Czyżewski Andrzej , Kułyk Piotr
Published: January 2024

W artykule przedstawiono mechanizm oddziaływania zmian w aktywności gospodarczej na wielkość i strukturę retransferów do sektora rolnego. Zwrócono uwagę na dwa czynniki: przekształcenia w dochodzie narodowym oraz sytuację na rynku pracy, wyrażoną za pośrednictwem stopy bezrobocia. Okres badawczy obejmował lata 1990-2009 a analizie poddano 21 krajów i jedno ugrupowanie integracyjne. Zastosowano metodologię OECD dla oszacowania przepływu nadwyżki ekonomicznej pomiędzy rolnictwem a pozostałymi sektorami gospodarki. Kraje zostały sklasyfikowane w trzech grupach o różnym poziomie rozwoju gospodarczego. Uzyskane wyniki wskazują, iż w badanym obszarze powiązań pomiędzy czynnikami makroekonomicznymi a strukturą retransferów nie można wyrokować o ich uniwersalnym charakterze dla całej populacji. Specyfika poszczególnych rynków krajowych wymusza stosowanie odmiennej struktury i wielkości retransferów. Procesy globalizacji i liberalizacji nie doprowadziły do ujednolicenia reakcji w polityce rolnej w stosunku do wyróżnionych czynników.
Znaczenie polityki rolnej państwa w rozwoju rynku ziemi rolniczej w Polsce
Authors: Maśniak Jacek
Published: January 2024

Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie znaczenia polityki państwa w funkcjonowaniu rynku ziemi rolniczej w Polsce ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem takich działań, jak nacjonalizacja i prywatyzacja ziemi. Działania te zostały przedstawione na tle rynku ziemi rolniczej w Polsce. W ramach polityki kształtowania ustroju rolnego państwo wpływa na rozdysponowanie ziemi pomiędzy sektor prywatny i publiczny. Wspierany jest przepływ ziemi do przedsiębiorstw mających status gospodarstwa rodzinnego, co ogranicza rozwój innych jednostek gospodarczych. Jest to sprzeczne z racjonalnością ekonomiczną, gdyż w efekcie takiego modelowania rolnictwa blokowany jest przepływ ziemi do tych przedsiębiorstw, które wykazują największą zdolność do zaspakajania potrzeb konsumentów.
Kształtowanie się światowego rynku miodu w latach 1961-2010
Authors: Borowska Agnieszka
Published: January 2024

W artykule przedstawiono podstawowe informacje na temat stanu i perspektyw rozwoju rynku miodu na świecie z uwzględnieniem sytuacji krajów UE, w tym Polski, w latach 1961-2010. Omówiono specyfikę oraz problematykę produkcji i konsumpcji, a także międzynarodowego handlu miodów w skali globalnej.
Koszty założenia polowych plantacji szybko rosnących roślin drzewiastych
Authors: Stolarski Mariusz , Krzyżaniak Michał , Szczukowski Stefan , Tworkowski Józef
Published: January 2024

W pracy określono koszty założenia plantacji wierzby, topoli i robinii akacjowej w zależności od sposobu wzbogacenia gleby. Podstawą prezentowanych badań było dwuczynnikowe, ścisłe doświadczenie polowe założone w Stacji Dydaktyczno-Badawczej w Łężanach, należącej do Uniwersytetu Warmińsko-Mazurskiego w Olsztynie. Koszty założenia oraz prowadzenia plantacji wierzby zawierały się w przedziale od 4906,3 zł/ha w kombinacji kontrolnej do 9915,8 zł/ha w kombinacji, w której zastosowano ligninę oraz mikoryzę. Wykonanie mikoryzacji było bardzo drogim zabiegiem, ponieważ stanowiło prawie 45% kosztów całkowitych. Założenie plantacji topoli w kombinacji kontrolnej kosztowało 12 128,5 zł/ha, a zastosowanie ligniny, mikoryzy oraz łącznie tych zabiegów znacząco zwiększało koszty całkowite o 8%, 33% i 41%. W strukturze kosztów produkcji w obiekcie kontrolnym zdecydowanie dominowały koszty związane z zakupem sadzonek (73,29%), a wykonanie mikoryzy stanowiło 24,8% kosztów całkowitych. Koszty bezpośrednie założenia oraz prowadzenia plantacji robinii akacjowej oraz ich struktura były zbliżone do kosztów ponoszonych na topolę. Duży udział w tym gatunku stanowiły koszty związane z ręcznym sadzeniem, które były około dwu-, trzykrotnie wyższe niż w przypadku topoli i wierzby.
Program „Owoce w szkole” – realizacja i skuteczność w kształtowaniu nawyków żywieniowych u dzieci
Authors: Trajer Marzena , Krzyżanowska Krystyna
Published: January 2024

W opracowaniu omówiono cele, zasady i warunki uczestnictwa w programie „Owoce w szkole” oraz efekty jego realizacji w Polsce. Przybliżono również propozycje Komisji Europejskiej dotyczące tego programu w perspektywie budżetowej 2014-2020.
Sytuacja ekonomiczna banków spółdzielczych w Polsce w latach 2005-2010
Authors: Bagieński Stanisław , Perek Aleksandra
Published: January 2024

Przedstawiono zmiany w sytuacji finansowej banków spółdzielczych w latach 2005-2010. Do przeprowadzenia badania wykorzystano dane liczbowe zawarte w sprawozdaniach finansowych 576 banków spółdzielczych, opublikowanych w „Monitorze Spółdzielczym B”. W całym okresie badawczym funkcjonowanie banków spółdzielczych było bezpieczne, stabilne i rentowne. Stwierdzono, że sektor banków spółdzielczych w relatywnie dobrym stanie przetrwał okres słabszej koniunktury gospodarczej i zaburzeń na rynkach finansowych w latach 2009 i 2010. Duży nadmiar środków finansowych lokowanych w transakcje międzybankowe wskazuje na konieczność podejmowania bardziej energicznych działań ukierunkowanych na pozyskiwanie nowych grup klientów oraz większej aktywności w kształtowaniu działalności kredytowej.
Rural tourism and agro-tourism in Slovakia
Authors: Habán Miroslav , Macák Milan , Otepka Pavol
Published: January 2024

The main objective of this work is to briefly present the natural beauties and cultural attractions in Slovakia, its favourable conditions and development possibilities for the agro-tourism sector. Furthermore, there are described the tasks and activities of organizations responsible for agro-tourism and rural tourism (EURO GITES in Europe, SARTA in Slovakia). The whole tourism industry, including rural tourism and agro-tourism, is growing rapidly worldwide. Slovakia, regarding its geographic location in the centre of Europe, has extremely favourable conditions for rural tourism, especially for agro-tourism. Beside the natural richness, such as mountains, caves, water areas, mineral waters, springs with healing effects, rich fauna and flora, also historical buildings, held in relatively good state, and many live traditional crafts can attract the modern tourists. Regarding all this, Slovakia is able to satisfy the needs of the most demanding our or foreign tourists.
Social responsibility of food companies in Slovakia – a selected tool of sustainability
Authors: Prokeinová Renata , Paluchová Johana
Published: January 2024

Many environmental strategies relying on a mere improvement of resource productivity and eco-efficiency of processes and products are fully to address the environmental impacts induced by increasing consumption. In addition to these strategies, the concept of sustainable consumption calls for changing the levels and patterns of consumption, which require complimentary approaches. Consumer’s don´t realize the consequences of their own consumer behavior to the environment. The aim of the paper is analyze the selected tools of the sustainable environmental marketing that extends the traditional marketing approach of social responsibility. Globalization and sustainable development contributes to discussions about business in society and their roles. It is clear that the business community can have a positive impact on the achievement of the objectives of both concepts.
An international comparison of the effect of government support on agricultural productivity
Authors: Oliynyk Olena
Published: January 2024

This paper provides an econometric evaluation the effect of government support to agriculture on a measure of the agricultural labor productivity in 16 countries with different level of support. The econometric model we construct specifically utilizes two values calculated by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD ): Producer Support Estimates as a percentage of gross farm receipts and the Consumer Nominal Protection Coefficient. These two variables represent transfers from taxpayers and consumers to agricultural producers through government programs and transfers from consumers to government or vice versa, respectively. By using regression model, we draw conclusions for groups of countries on the basis of their relevant levels of government support.
Sustainable Farming and New Perspectives for the Farmer as Energy-Manager for Power-Supply from Biogas-Reactor coupled with CHP
Authors: Mehl Horst , Horska Elena
Published: January 2024

The paper shows how plant with biogas reactor can be a part of sustainability issues in agribusiness. Based on the case study from Germany it clarifies the main suppositions, benefits and outcomes for the farmer and producer.
Długookresowa analiza rozwoju sektora pieczarkarskiego w Polsce
Authors: Olewnicki Dawid , Jabłońska Lilianna
Published: January 2024

Produkcja pieczarek w Polsce odznacza się wysoką dynamiką rozwoju. Produkcja tych grzybów w ostatnich latach kształtowała się na poziomie przekraczającym 200 tys. ton, a ich udział w ogólnej produkcji grzybów wynosił ponad 90%. Pieczarki stały się strategicznym produktem w polskim eksporcie produktów ogrodniczych. W latach 2009-2010 udział eksportu w krajowej produkcji pieczarek stanowił około 65%. Pomiędzy latami 2002 i 2010 zmniejszyła się o ponad 8% ogólna liczba gospodarstw uprawiających grzyby, ale jednocześnie wyraźnie zwiększył się udział gospodarstw z powierzchnią upraw powyżej 500 m2. Z przeprowadzonych badań wynika, że utrzyma się liniowa tendencja rosnąca zbiorów, cen oraz eksportu pieczarek.
Determinanty efektywności technicznej produkcji mleka – analiza porównawcza w wybranych gospodarstwach europejskich w latach 2007 i 2011
Authors: Rusielik Robert
Published: January 2024

Zbadano czynniki wpływające na kształtowanie się wskaźnika efektywności technicznej (TE) produkcji mleka w gospodarstwach nastawionych na produkcję mleka. Ustalono różnice pomiędzy gospodarstwami efektywnymi i nieefektywnymi. Analizę przeprowadzono w dwóch okresach porównawczych, tj. w 2007 i 2011 roku. Pomiar efektywności wykonano metodą Data Envelopment Analysis. Do badań wykorzystano dane z wybranych państw pochodzące z gospodarstw należących do Europejskiego Stowarzyszenia Producentów Mleka (ang. European Dairy Farms – EDF). Analiza wykazała, że w roku 2007 zróżnicowanie pomiędzy gospodarstwami efektywnymi a nieefektywnymi było większe niż w roku 2011.