bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thermal state of the lithosphere in the Danube Basin and its relation to tectonics
Authors: Majcin Dušan , Bilčík Dušan , Klučiar Tomáš 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The area of the Danube Basin is interesting in the light of the evaluation both of the lithosphere structure and of various theories of Carpathian-Pannonian region tectonic evolution. The aim of this paper is to analyse both the thermal conditions in the Danube Basin and the mutual relations to geological structure and tectonic development of the region under study. First the improved distributions of the terrestrial heat flow density and of the lithosphere thickness were constructed using recently gained geophysical and geological knowledge. Then the critical analysis of existing models of the tectonic development of the region under study was carried out. The tectono-thermal interpretation activities were accomplished by new geothermal modelling approach for transient regime which utilizes also the backstriped sedimentology data as a control parameter of model. Finally the McKenzie’s “pure-shear” model of the Danube basin was constructed as acceptable conception for used geothermal and tectonic data. The determined stretching parameter has an inhomogeneous horizontal distribution and the thinning factors express the depth dependency for separate lithospheric layers.
Variability and changes in selected climate elements in Madrid and Alicante in the period 2000-2014
Authors: Cielecka Katarzyna 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe aim of this study is to compare climatic conditions between the interior of the Iberian Peninsula and the southeastern coast of Spain. The article analyzes selected elements of climate over the last 15 years (2000-2014). Synoptic data from airport meteorological stations in Madrid Barajas and Alicante Elche were used. Attention was focused on annual air temperature, relative humidity and precipitation. The mean climatic conditions over the period 2000-2014 were compared with those over the 1961-1990 period which is recommended by WMO as climate normal and with data for the 1971-2000 coming from ‘Climate Atlas’ of Spanish meteorologists group AEMET. Two of climate elements discussed were characterized by significant changes. The annual air temperature was higher by about 0.2°C in Alicante and 0.9°C in Madrid in the period 2000-2014 compared to the 1961-1990. The current winters were colder than in years 1961-1990 at both stations. Gradual decrease in annual precipitation totals was observed at both stations. In 1961-1990 the annual average precipitation in Madrid amounted to 414 mm, while in Alicante it was 356 mm. However, in the recent years of 2000-2014 these totals were lower compared to 1961-1990 reaching 364.1 mm in the central part of Spain and 245.7 mm on the south-western coast.
Kinesiological Analysis of Stationary Running Performed in Aquatic and Dry Land Environments
Authors: Lima Alberton Cristine , Santana Pinto Stephanie , Silva Azenha Natália Amélia da , Cadore Eduardo Lusa , Peikriszwili Tartaruga Marcus , Brasil Bruno , Martins Kruel Luiz Fernando 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to analyze the electromyographic (EMG) signals of the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), semitendinosus (ST) and short head of the biceps femoris (BF) during the performance of stationary running at different intensities in aquatic and dry land environments. The sample consisted of 12 female volunteers who performed the stationary running exercise in aquatic and dry land environments at a submaximal cadence (80 beats·min-1 controlled by a metronome) and at maximal velocity, with EMG signal measurements from the RF, VL, ST and BF muscles. The results showed a distinct pattern between environments for each muscle examined. For the submaximal cadence of 80 beats·min-1, there was a reduced magnitude of the EMG signal in the aquatic environment, except for the ST muscle, the pattern of which was similar in both environments. In contrast to the submaximal cadence, the pattern of the EMG signal from all of the muscles showed similar magnitudes for both environments and phases of movement at maximal velocity, except for the VL muscle. Therefore, the EMG signals from the RF, VL, ST and BF muscles of women during stationary running had different patterns of activation over the range of motion between aquatic and dry land environments for different intensities. Moreover, the neuromuscular responses of the lower limbs were optimized by an increase in intensity from submaximal cadence to maximal velocity.
Symptoms of Common Mental Disorders and Adverse Health Behaviours in Male Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Gouttebarge Vincent , Aoki Haruhito , Kerkhoffs Gino 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
To present time, scientific knowledge about symptoms of common mental disorders and adverse health behaviours among professional soccer players is lacking. Consequently, the aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of symptoms of common mental disorders (distress, anxiety/depression, sleep disturbance) and adverse health behaviours (adverse alcohol behaviour, smoking, adverse nutrition behaviour) among professional soccer players, and to explore their associations with potential stressors (severe injury, surgery, life events and career dissatisfaction). Cross-sectional analyses were conducted on baseline questionnaires from an ongoing prospective cohort study among male professional players. Using validated questionnaires to assess symptoms of common mental disorders and adverse health behaviours as well as stressors, an electronic questionnaire was set up and distributed by players’ unions in 11 countries from three continents. Prevalence of symptoms of common mental disorders and adverse health behaviours among professional soccer players ranged from 4% for smoking and 9% for adverse alcohol behaviour to 38% for anxiety/depression and 58% for adverse nutrition behaviour. Significant associations were found for a higher number of severe injuries with distress, anxiety/depression, sleeping disturbance and adverse alcohol behaviour, an increased number of life events with distress, sleeping disturbance, adverse alcohol behaviour and smoking, as well as an elevated level of career dissatisfaction with distress, anxiety/depression and adverse nutrition behaviour. Statistically significant correlations (p<0.01) were found for severe injuries and career dissatisfaction with most symptoms of common mental disorders. High prevalence of symptoms of common mental disorders and adverse health behaviours was found among professional players, confirming a previous pilot-study in a similar study population.
Microarray analysis of spring barley cultivars displaying differing sensitivity to physiological leaf spot (PLS)
Authors: Moran Mary G. , Dix Philip J. , Burke James I. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Physiological leaf spot (PLS) is a disorder of spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), which has become more pronounced in recent years. The initial symptoms are small chlorotic/brown spots on the upper four leaves, which may develop into necrotic lesions with an irregular shape. As PLS occurs on leaves that are directly exposed to sunlight, it is thought that high light stress could be a trigger for the condition. This study concentrates on two cultivars, Cooper and Crusader, which display differential sensitivity to PLS. Biochemical measurements and enzyme assays revealed substantial difference in levels of ascorbate, type III peroxidases, and superoxide dismutase between the chosen cultivars during the 2003 growing season. A global gene expression study, using these field samples, was performed by microarray analysis. This supported the biochemical findings and highlighted additional sets of genes differentially expressed between the cultivars. Transcripts of particular interest, which appeared, included calcium signalling genes, cold-responsive genes and those involved in the assembly of Photosystem I. We conclude that susceptibility to PLS is related to levels of expression of genes with a role in countering the effects of oxidative stress.
Digital Geogames to foster local biodiversity
Authors: Schaal Sonja , Schaal Steffen , Lude Armin 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The valuing of biodiversity is considered to be a first step towards its conservation. Therefore, the aim of the BioDiv2Go project is to combine sensuous experiences discovering biodiversity with mobile technology and a game-based learning approach.
Following the competence model for environmental education (Roczen et al, 2014), Geogames (location based games on smartphones) for experiential outdoor learning activities are developed. The Finde Vielfalt Simulation (FVS) Geogame focuses on adolescent visitors of German youth hostels. The FVS-players are involved in a narrative keeping the traditions of their ancestors’ heritage as decisions are needed to balance biodiversity and economic success. They discover the natural environment and they solve location-based tasks at several places. If the players manipulate a simulation successfully they stand the test of the ancestors.
The initial theoretical framework consists of the components biodiversity-related attitudes, behaviour and knowledge, general environmental behaviour and attitude towards nature. According to the Uses and Gratification Theory, the game-related enjoyment is added. For the assessment different scales were developed or adapted and tested for secondary-school children. The framework evolved stepwise through systematic expert hearings, interviews with the target group, participant observation as well as through an online survey. In a first step the situational interest was considered to be important for the valuing of biodiversity. The final version of the framework was used and validated within a pilot study with 180 secondary school students.
The framework development was a highly transformative process engaging different actors, using complementary methodological approaches and integrating different disciplinary perspectives.
Load Optimization in a Grid Structure for Parallel Simulations of the Throughput of a Packet Switch Node
Authors: Tashev Tasho , Monov Vladimir , Tasheva Radostina 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
In the present paper we employ the grid structure of IICT-BAS for parallel computer simulations of the throughput of a crossbar switch node. In our simulations we use PIM-algorithm for non-conflict scheduling in a crossbar node with hotspot load traffic. The obtained simulation results enable us to propose a procedure for optimizing the load of a grid structure in order to minimize the overall time of performance.
Clustering Large-Scale Data Based On Modified Affinity Propagation Algorithm
Authors: Serdah Ahmed M. , Ashour Wesam M. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Traditional clustering algorithms are no longer suitable for use in data mining applications that make use of large-scale data. There have been many large-scale data clustering algorithms proposed in recent years, but most of them do not achieve clustering with high quality. Despite that Affinity Propagation (AP) is effective and accurate in normal data clustering, but it is not effective for large-scale data. This paper proposes two methods for large-scale data clustering that depend on a modified version of AP algorithm. The proposed methods are set to ensure both low time complexity and good accuracy of the clustering method. Firstly, a data set is divided into several subsets using one of two methods random fragmentation or K-means. Secondly, subsets are clustered into K clusters using K-Affinity Propagation (KAP) algorithm to select local cluster exemplars in each subset. Thirdly, the inverse weighted clustering algorithm is performed on all local cluster exemplars to select well-suited global exemplars of the whole data set. Finally, all the data points are clustered by the similarity between all global exemplars and each data point. Results show that the proposed clustering method can significantly reduce the clustering time and produce better clustering result in a way that is more effective and accurate than AP, KAP, and HAP algorithms.
Professional Opinions And Attitudes On Tax Policy In Bosnia And Herzegovina With A Special Focus On The Federation Of Bosnia And Herzegovina1
Authors: Lazović-Pita Lejla , Štambuk Ana 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
This research is based on tax policy opinion survey data collected in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) among tax experts. A special focus of the survey was to investigate the consequences of the different institutional environments that exist between the two entities of the country. After having reviewed all previous tax reforms in B&H, the most interesting results suggest that respondents agree on the introduction of a progressive personal income tax (PIT) and excise duty on luxury products, the maintenance of personal and family allowances and the maintenance of the current value added tax (VAT) and corporate income tax (CIT) rates. However, differences exist in the respondents’ perceptions about the introduction of reduced VAT rates, the regressivity of the VAT, and giving priority to the equity principle over the efficiency principle in taxation. Probability modelling highlighted these differences and indicated inconsistencies in the definition of the PIT tax base, namely the comprehensiveness of the PIT base under the S-H-S definition of income.
Mobile Carrier Selection In A Post-Conflict Environment – The Primacy Of Ethnicity Over Conventional Network Effects
Authors: Zaimović Tarik 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
In this paper we analyze determinants which affect the selection of mobile carriers in a post-conflict environment - Bosnia and Herzegovina. We apply relevant probability modelling to test perceptions of individual respondents on different network effects obtained through a targeted representative survey. Furthermore, we explore whether some non-traditional influences might affect costumers, focusing on the role of demographic characteristics. Our results confirm that conventional network effects have a role in carrier selection, although they are different across carriers. However, we identify that the ethnicity of respondents overwhelms the traditional network effects by having the highest magnitude in the model. Our findings show that the “ethnic affiliation” of mobile carriers, attributed by the users, remains a persistent factor in attracting and keeping telecommunication costumers in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Influence Of Different Information Sources On Innovation Performance: Evidence From France, The Netherlands And Croatia
Authors: Bach Mirjana Pejić , Lojpur Andjelko , Peković Sanja , Stanovčić Tatjana 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Information sources are considered a catalyst for innovation improvement, and because of this it is particularly important to learn more regarding their impact on innovation performance. Therefore, the goal of this research is to investigate to what extent the usage of different information sources influences internal and external R&D activities in three countries, Croatia, France and the Netherlands, by employing CIS data, which covers the period from 2006 to 2008. These countries were chosen because of the different levels of their country competitiveness (measured by the Global Competitiveness Index), which permits us to investigate if the usage of information sources has varying impact on their innovation performance. Our results reveal that internal sources, customers, suppliers and universities are important information sources for both internal and external R&D activities in all three countries. However, significant differences are also found. Firms from the Netherlands (which has the highest country competitiveness) use information sources differently, relying on competitors as one of their most important sources of innovation. On the other hand, the government did not have any impact on firms in Croatia (which has the lowest country competitiveness), indicating that this may be the reason for similar countries lagging behind.
The Non-Linear Relationship Between Fiscal Deficits And Inflation: Evidence From Africa
Authors: Abu Nurudeen , Karim Mohd Zaini Abd 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Although, there is abundant research on the fiscal deficit-inflation relationship, little has been done to investigate the non-linear association between them, particularly in Africa. This study employs fixed-effects and GMM estimators to examine the non-linear relationship between deficits and inflation from 1999 to 2011 in 51 African economies, which are further grouped into high-inflation/low-income countries and moderate-inflation/middle-income countries. The results indicate that the deficit-inflation relationship is non-linear for the whole sample and sub-groups. For the whole sample, a percentage point increase in deficit results in a 0.25 percentage point increase in inflation rate, while the relationship becomes quantitatively greater once deficits reach 23% of GDP. The subsamples report different relationships. Although our results cannot be used as the base for generalization, we identify importance of grouping African countries according to their levels of inflation and/or income, rather than treating them as a homogeneous entity.
Growth failure in adolescents: etiology, the role of pubertal timing and most useful criteria for diagnostic workup
Authors: Stalman Susanne E. , Hellinga Ilse , Wit Jan M. , Hennekam Raoul C.M. , Kamp Gerdine A. , Plötz Frans B. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe aim of the study was to evaluate the etiology, the role of pubertal timing and most useful criteria for diagnostic workup in adolescents with growth failure.Adolescents (n=182) aged 10.0–18.0 years underwent a standardized diagnostic protocol. Constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) was defined as late pubertal onset or a Tanner stage less than –2 SDS. Dutch and Finnish criteria for growth monitoring were retrospectively assessed.In 13 children (7.1%) a specific diagnosis could be established. CDGP was diagnosed in 10% of patients aged ≥13 (girls) or ≥14 years (boys). Sensitivity to detect pathologic causes was 85% and 62% for, respectively Dutch and Finnish criteria for growth monitoring as used in younger children, but specificity was low (55%–59%).In adolescents, pathological causes for growth failure and pubertal delay are common, and we recommend a combination of height SDS, distance to THSDS and growth deflection for deciding on further diagnostic testing.
The Analysis of Communication Strategies Used by Polish L2 Learners
Authors: Świątek Artur , Pluszczyk Adam 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
When we communicate, we make use of both verbal and non-verbal means. In a classroom situation, there are a number of obstacles which students encounter and which can impede their communication. In L2 learning contexts, one of the commonest barriers is the language. Thus, the application of communication strategies (CS) is necessary with a view to compensating for various difficulties and avoiding communication failure or achieving communicative success.
The objective of our paper is to analyze the occurrence and the incidence of communication strategies in the speech of Polish L2 learners. The subjects we tested are representatives of four different proficiency groups:

- intermediate (junior high school 3rd class learners),
- upper-intermediate (technical secondary school students who are taking their final maturity exams),
- pre-advanced (1st year philology students) and advanced (3rd year philology students).
A survey was conducted with a view to eliciting the linguistic data which enabled us to determine the occurrence and incidence of communication strategies (CS). More specifically, we observed if and, if yes, to what extent the learners use the strategies in order to compensate for the challenging moments which they encounter when they communicate.
Numerical Analysis of Aerodynamic Characteristics of a of High-Speed Car With Movable Bodywork Elements
Authors: Janson Tomasz , Piechna Janusz 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
This paper presents the results of numerical analysis of aerodynamic characteristics of a sports car equipped with movable aerodynamic elements. The effects of size, shape, position, angle of inclination of the moving flaps on the aerodynamic downforce and aerodynamic drag forces acting on the vehicle were investigated. The calculations were performed with the help of the ANSYS-Fluent CFD software. The transient flow of incompressible fluid around the car body with moving flaps, with modeled turbulence (model Spalart-Allmaras or SAS), was simulated. The paper presents examples of effective flap configuration, and the example of configuration which does not generate aerodynamic downforce. One compares the change in the forces generated at different angles of flap opening, pressure distribution, and visualization of streamlines around the body. There are shown the physical reasons for the observed abnormal characteristics of some flap configurations. The results of calculations are presented in the form of pressure contours, pathlines, and force changes in the function of the angle of flap rotation. There is also presented estimated practical suitability of particular flap configurations for controlling the high-speed car stability and performance.
Modeling of Damage Evolution and Martensitic Transformation in Austenitic Steel at Cryogenic Temperature
Authors: Ryś Maciej 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
In the present work, a constitutive model of materials undergoing the plastic strain induced phase transformation and damage evolution has been developed. The model is based on the linearized transformation kinetics. Moreover, isotropic damage evolution is considered. The constitutive model has been implemented in the finite element software Abaqus/Explicit by means of the external user subroutine VUMAT. A uniaxial tension test was simulated in Abaqus/Explicit to compare experimental and numerical results. Expansion bellows was also modelled and computed as a real structural element, commonly used at cryogenic conditions.
A Robust Method of Vehicle Stability Accurate Measurement Using GPS and INS
Authors: Miao Zhibin , Zhang Hongtian , Zhang Jinzhu 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
With the development of the vehicle industry, controlling stability has become more and more important. Techniques of evaluating vehicle stability are in high demand. Integration of Global Positioning System (GPS) and Inertial Navigation System (INS) is a very practical method to get high-precision measurement data. Usually, the Kalman filter is used to fuse the data from GPS and INS. In this paper, a robust method is used to measure vehicle sideslip angle and yaw rate, which are two important parameters for vehicle stability. First, a four-wheel vehicle dynamic model is introduced, based on sideslip angle and yaw rate. Second, a double level Kalman filter is established to fuse the data from Global Positioning System and Inertial Navigation System. Then, this method is simulated on a sample vehicle, using Carsim software to test the sideslip angle and yaw rate. Finally, a real experiment is made to verify the advantage of this approach. The experimental results showed the merits of this method of measurement and estimation, and the approach can meet the design requirements of the vehicle stability controller.