bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of Customs Fiscal Function in Latvia
Authors: Rudzītis Normunds , Čevers Aldis 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Globalization of the world economy and increased international trade in economic development of countries seriously affect Customs Services and changes customs functions. Moreover, the measurement efficiency and effectiveness of Customs Services are determined based on an accurate identification of the customs functions to be performed and on the basis of the amount of dynamic analysis. The article shows that significant reduction of the customs fiscal function is identified in the period when Latvia joined the EU Customs Union. The reduction took place due to the country’s efforts to improve business environment and strengthen the competitiveness of enterprises, as well as to improve tax administration system.
Factor Analysis of Passengers’ Satisfaction at “RIGA International Airport”
Authors: Paramonovs Sergejs , Ijevleva Ksenija 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
The aim of the paper is to determine complex factors influencing passengers’ satisfaction at RIGA International Airport (Latvia). Theoretical evidence was examined and factor analysis was carried out to identify the main groups of factors affecting passengers’ satisfaction at the Airport. The findings of the study show that the most important five factors affecting it are: (1) availability of telecommunications, (2) effective way finding signs, (3) cleanliness of restrooms, (4) courtesy of staff and (5) availability of staff. The results based on this study will help airport managers in the Baltic Sea region to better serve their passengers through introduction of modern technologies and improved attitudes.
Modelling Framework and Assistive Device for
Peripheral Intravenous Injections
Authors: Kam Kin F. , Robinson Martin P. , Gilbert Mathew A. , Pelah Adar 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Intravenous access for blood sampling or drug
administration that requires peripheral venepuncture is
perhaps the most common invasive procedure practiced
in hospitals, clinics and general practice surgeries.We describe
an idealised mathematical framework for modelling
the dynamics of the peripheral venepuncture process. Basic
assumptions of the model are confirmed through motion
analysis of needle trajectories during venepuncture,
taken from video recordings of a skilled practitioner injecting
into a practice kit. The framework is also applied
to the design and construction of a proposed device for accurate
needle guidance during venepuncture administration,
assessed as consistent and repeatable in application
and does not lead to over puncture. The study provides
insights into the ubiquitous peripheral venepuncture process
and may contribute to applications in training and in
the design of new devices, including for use in robotic automation.
Fabrication and electrochemical study of [Ru(NH3)6]3+/Nafion modified electrodes for the determination of trace amounts of Pb2+, Cd2+, and Zn2+ via anodic stripping voltammetry
Authors: Palisoc Shirley T. , Natividad Michelle T. , Martinez Nicole Mae D.C. , Ramos Rochelle Marie A. , Kaw Kevin Anthony Y. 
Published: March 2016

Abstract[Ru(NH3)6]3+/Nafion modified indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes were fabricated via the drop coating technique and were used for the simultaneous determination of lead (Pb2+), cadmium (Cd2+), and zinc (Zn2+) in trace amounts using anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV). The amount of [Ru(NH3)6]3+ in the coating solution was varied at 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg. The fabricated electrodes were used to detect varying concentrations of Pb, Cd and Zn. ASV results showed that as the amount of [Ru(NH3)6]3+ was increased, the reduction current of the heavy metals increased as well. The Pearson correlation values obtained for Pb and Cd were close to 1.0, indicating a strong positive linear relationship between the variables. The minimum heavy metal concentration that can be simultaneously detected by the fabricated electrodes is 0.5 ppm.
Preparation and characterization of activated carbon fibers from liquefied wood by KOH activation
Authors: Huang Yuxiang , Zhao Guangjie 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Activated carbon fibers (ACFs) have been prepared from liquefied wood (Wliq) by chemical activation with KOH, with a particular focus on the effect of KOH/fiber ratio in term of porous texture and surface chemistry. ACFs based on steam activation served as a blank for comparison. The properties of the ACFs were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen adsorption/desorption, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that the KOH-activated ACFs have rougher surfaces and more amorphous structure compared with the blank. The pore development was significant when the KOH/fiber ratio reached 3, and achieved a maximum Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area of 1371 m2 g-1 and total pore volume (Vtot) of 0.777 cm3 g-1, of which 45.3% belong to mesopores with diameters of 2–4 nm, while the blank activated at the same temperature had a BET surface of 1250 m2 g-1 and Vtot of 0.644 cm3 g-1, which are mainly micropores. The surface functional groups are closely associated with the KOH/fiber ratios. KOH-activated ACFs with KOH/fiber ratio of 3 have more oxygenated surface functional groups (C-O, C=O, -COOH) than the blank.
A Conditional Randomization Test to Account for Covariate Imbalance in Randomized Experiments
Authors: Hennessy Jonathan , Dasgupta Tirthankar , Miratrix Luke , Pattanayak Cassandra , Sarkar Pradipta 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
We consider the conditional randomization test as a way to account for covariate imbalance in randomized experiments. The test accounts for covariate imbalance by comparing the observed test statistic to the null distribution of the test statistic conditional on the observed covariate imbalance. We prove that the conditional randomization test has the correct significance level and introduce original notation to describe covariate balance more formally. Through simulation, we verify that conditional randomization tests behave like more traditional forms of covariate adjustment but have the added benefit of having the correct conditional significance level. Finally, we apply the approach to a randomized product marketing experiment where covariate information was collected after randomization.
Individual Patterns in Blood-Borne Indicators of Fatigue—Trait or Chance
Authors: Julian Ross , Meyer Tim , Fullagar Hugh H.K. , Skorski Sabrina , Pfeiffer Mark , Kellmann Michael , Ferrauti Alexander , Hecksteden Anne 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Julian, R, Meyer, T, Fullagar, HHK, Skorski, S, Pfeiffer, M, Kellmann, M, Ferrauti, A, and Hecksteden, A. Individual patterns in blood-borne indicators of fatigue—trait or chance. J Strength Cond Res 31(3): 608–619, 2017—Blood-borne markers of fatigue such as creatine kinase (CK) and urea (U) are widely used to fine-tune training recommendations. However, predictive accuracy is low. A possible explanation for this dissatisfactory characteristic is the propensity of athletes to react to different patterns of fatigue indicators (e.g., predominantly muscular [CK] or metabolic [U]). The aim of the present trial was to explore this hypothesis by using repetitive fatigue-recovery cycles. A total of 22 elite junior swimmers and triathletes (18 ± 3 years) were monitored for 9 weeks throughout 2 training phases (low-intensity, high-volume [LIHV] and high-intensity, low-volume [HILV] phases). Blood samples were collected each Monday (recovered) and Friday (fatigued) morning. From measured values of CK, U, free-testosterone (FT), and cortisol (C) as determined in the rested and fatigued state, respectively, Monday–Friday differences (Δ) were calculated and classified by magnitude before calculation of ratios (ΔCK/ΔU and ΔFT/ΔC). Coefficient of variation (CV) was calculated as group-based estimates of reproducibility. Linear mixed modeling was used to differentiate inter- and intraindividual variability. Consistency of patterns was analyzed by comparing with threshold values (<0.9 or >1.1 for all weeks). Reproducibility was very low for fatigue-induced changes (CV ≥ 100%) with interindividual variation accounting for 45–60% of overall variability. Case-wise analysis indicated consistent ΔCK/ΔU patterns for 7 individuals in LIHV and 7 in HILV; 5 responded consistently throughout. For ΔFT/ΔC the number of consistent patterns was 2 in LIHV and 3 in HILV. These findings highlight the potential value of an individualized and multivariate approach in the assessment of fatigue.
A New Method for the Evaluation and Prediction of Base Stealing Performance
Authors: Bricker Joshua C. , Bailey Christopher A. , Driggers Austin R. , McInnis Timothy C. , Alami Arya 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Bricker, JC, Bailey, CA, Driggers, AR, McInnis, TC, and Alami, A. A new method for the evaluation and prediction of base stealing performance. J Strength Cond Res 30(11): 3044–3050, 2016—The purposes of this study were to evaluate a new method using electronic timing gates to monitor base stealing performance in terms of reliability, differences between it and traditional stopwatch-collected times, and its ability to predict base stealing performance. Twenty-five healthy collegiate baseball players performed maximal effort base stealing trials with a right and left-handed pitcher. An infrared electronic timing system was used to calculate the reaction time (RT) and total time (TT), whereas coaches' times (CT) were recorded with digital stopwatches. Reliability of the TGM was evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and coefficient of variation (CV). Differences between the TGM and traditional CT were calculated with paired samples t tests Cohen's d effect size estimates. Base stealing performance predictability of the TGM was evaluated with Pearson's bivariate correlations. Acceptable relative reliability was observed (ICCs 0.74–0.84). Absolute reliability measures were acceptable for TT (CVs = 4.4–4.8%), but measures were elevated for RT (CVs = 32.3–35.5%). Statistical and practical differences were found between TT and CT (right p = 0.00, d = 1.28 and left p = 0.00, d = 1.49). The TGM TT seems to be a decent predictor of base stealing performance (r = −0.49 to −0.61). The authors recommend using the TGM used in this investigation for athlete monitoring because it was found to be reliable, seems to be more precise than traditional CT measured with a stopwatch, provides an additional variable of value (RT), and may predict future performance.
Validity of a Wearable Accelerometer Device to Measure Average Acceleration Values During High-Speed Running
Authors: Alexander Jeremy P. , Hopkinson Trent L. , Wundersitz Daniel W. T. , Serpell Benjamin G. , Mara Jocelyn K. , Ball Nick B. 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Alexander, JP, Hopkinson, TL, Wundersitz, DWT, Serpell, BG, Mara, JK, and Ball, NB. Validity of a wearable accelerometer device to measure average acceleration values during high-speed running. J Strength Cond Res 30(11): 3007–3013, 2016—The aim of this study was to determine the validity of an accelerometer to measure average acceleration values during high-speed running. Thirteen subjects performed three sprint efforts over a 40-m distance (n = 39). Acceleration was measured using a 100-Hz triaxial accelerometer integrated within a wearable tracking device (SPI-HPU; GPSports). To provide a concurrent measure of acceleration, timing gates were positioned at 10-m intervals (0–40 m). Accelerometer data collected during 0–10 m and 10–20 m provided a measure of average acceleration values. Accelerometer data was recorded as the raw output and filtered by applying a 3-point moving average and a 10-point moving average. The accelerometer could not measure average acceleration values during high-speed running. The accelerometer significantly overestimated average acceleration values during both 0–10 m and 10–20 m, regardless of the data filtering technique (p < 0.001). Body mass significantly affected all accelerometer variables (p < 0.10, partial η2 = 0.091–0.219). Body mass and the absence of a gravity compensation formula affect the accuracy and practicality of accelerometers. Until GPSports-integrated accelerometers incorporate a gravity compensation formula, the usefulness of any accelerometer-derived algorithms is questionable.
Needles: Toward Large-Scale Genomic Prediction with Marker-by-Environment Interaction
Authors: De Coninck Arne , De Baets Bernard , Kourounis Drosos , Verbosio Fabio , Schenk Olaf , Maenhout Steven , Fostier Jan 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Genomic prediction relies on genotypic marker information to predict the agronomic performance of future hybrid breeds based on trial records. Because the effect of markers may vary substantially under the influence of different environmental conditions, marker-by-environment interaction effects have to be taken into account. However, this may lead to a dramatic increase in the computational resources needed for analyzing large-scale trial data. A high-performance computing solution, called Needles, is presented for handling such data sets. Needles is tailored to the particular properties of the underlying algebraic framework by exploiting a sparse matrix formalism where suited and by utilizing distributed computing techniques to enable the use of a dedicated computing cluster. It is demonstrated that large-scale analyses can be performed within reasonable time frames with this framework. Moreover, by analyzing simulated trial data, it is shown that the effects of markers with a high environmental interaction can be predicted more accurately when more records per environment are available in the training data. The availability of such data and their analysis with Needles also may lead to the discovery of highly contributing QTL in specific environmental conditions. Such a framework thus opens the path for plant breeders to select crops based on these QTL, resulting in hybrid lines with optimized agronomic performance in specific environmental conditions.
A Novel Candidate Gene for Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination in the Common Snapping Turtle
Authors: Schroeder Anthony L , Metzger Kelsey J , Miller Alexandra , Rhen Turk 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) was described nearly 50 years ago. Researchers have since identified many genes that display differential expression at male- vs. female-producing temperatures. Yet, it is unclear whether these genes (1) are involved in sex determination per se, (2) are downstream effectors involved in differentiation of ovaries and testes, or (3) are thermo-sensitive but unrelated to gonad development. Here we present multiple lines of evidence linking CIRBP to sex determination in the snapping turtle, Chelydra serpentina. We demonstrate significant associations between a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (c63A &gt; C) in CIRBP, transcript levels in embryonic gonads during specification of gonad fate, and sex in hatchlings from a thermal regime that produces mixed sex ratios. The A allele was induced in embryos exposed to a female-producing temperature, while expression of the C allele did not differ between female- and male-producing temperatures. In accord with this pattern of temperature-dependent, allele-specific expression, AA homozygotes were more likely to develop ovaries than AC heterozygotes, which, in turn, were more likely to develop ovaries than CC homozygotes. Multiple regression using SNPs in CIRBP and adjacent loci suggests that c63A &gt; C may be the causal variant or closely linked to it. Differences in CIRBP allele frequencies among turtles from northern Minnesota, southern Minnesota, and Texas reflect small and large-scale latitudinal differences in TSD pattern. Finally, analysis of CIRBP protein localization reveals that CIRBP is in a position to mediate temperature effects on the developing gonads. Together, these studies strongly suggest that CIRBP is involved in determining the fate of the bipotential gonad.
Considérations sur le problème boïen
Authors: Szabó Miklós 
Published: March 2016

The problems of Boius history have their roots in the identification of antique Boiohaemum with medieval Bohemia, an interpretation that has its origins in the tenth century. Any attempt to localize their territory, consideration must be taken of the fact that according to Tacitus, Strabon and other antique writers, this region incorporated the settlement area of King Marobodus and his Marcomanni, the so-called Bouiaimon. Other data suggest that the “land of the Boii” was a forest between the upper course of the Rhine River and present-day eastern Slovakia, along the Danube.
The Marcomanni expelled the Boii from this area at the end of the first century BC. On this basis it may be hypothesized that the settlement area of this Celtic tribe was located somewhere in present-day south-western Slovakia. The settlement of the Boii in present-day Czech Republic, however, is a historical topos. Clarifying the correct location of this tribe may contribute to a better understanding of the development and history of the Boii in Pannonia.”
O positivismo jurídico e sua evolução como pensamento: um histórico de sucesso ou de fracasso?
Authors: Carneiro Daniel Dix 
Published: March 2016

Este artigo versa sobre o processo evolutivo do positivismo jurídico enquanto pensamento filosófico. Dentro desse contexto, é motivo de nossa abordagem: as razões que ensejaram o surgimento dessa doutrina, suas características e a tentativa de desvinculação do direito com os preceitos morais. Veremos ainda, que a partir de meados do século passado, a concepção de direito preconizada por esta corrente filosófica foi objeto de duras críticas, o que culminou com o surgimento do pós-positivismo, pensamento este que preconiza uma maior inteiração do direito com a moral, na busca incessante pelo senso de justiça. Porém, tendo em vista nossa tradição romano-germânica de sistematizar e aplicar o direito, parece dificultosa a admissão dos preceitos morais como direito, fato que dá origem ao pensamento neoconstitucionalista, o qual preconiza a inserção da moral nos textos constitucionais ocidentais através dos princípios de direito, atualmente alçados à condição de norma jurídicas e não mais meros instrumentos de integração do direito. Palavras chave: Positivismo jurídico. Evolução. Neoconstitucionalismo.
Coping With The Risk Of Interest Rate Fluctuations: The Case Of Kuwait Banks
Authors: Benkato Omar M. , Haddad Mahmoud M. , Al-Loughani Nabeel , Baur Michael N. 
Published: March 2016

This study analyzed immunization behavior of a sample of eight Kuwait banks during the 1994 through 2000 period. The financial market in Kuwait experienced relative stability of interest rates during the analysis period. The sample banks seemed to adjust their portfolio of assets and liabilities by equating Macaulay duration of assets and Macaulay duration of liabilities. We could not reject the null hypothesis that there is no difference between average Macaulay duration of assets and that of liabilities. Our findings indicate that banks in Kuwait are able to match the durations of their assets and liabilities.
Optimal Capital Structure Vs. Pecking Order Theory: A Further Test
Authors: Ghosh Arvin , Cai Francis 
Published: March 2016

In this paper we have used the Compustat data-set covering 1983-2003 to test empirically whether a firms' capital structure follows "optimal capital structure" or” pecking order theory"(POT) as advanced by Professor Stewart Myers. Using the industry mean as a predictor of a firm's capital structure, we have found that in general, a firm's debt level is moving toward the industry's mean is not significantly different from that it is moving further away from the industry mean, while a firm's debt level is moving toward the industry mean is very high when it is above the industry mean. The empirical result suggests that the optimal capital structure is not a single point, rather a range of values from zero to the industry mean within which a typical U.S. firm will be indifferent to the firm's debt level. In other words, a firm will only adjust to the optimal capital structure when the firm's debt level is out of this range. Out result also generally agrees with the pecking order theory, that is, firms prefer using internal financing as opposed to using external financing. Furthermore, when external funds are required, a firm prefers debt financing to equity financing.
Predicting Financial Distress And Bankruptcy For Hospitals
Authors: Morey Jim , Scherzer Gary , Varshney Sanjay 
Published: March 2016

Five upstate New York hospitals were examined to identify a common pattern that might portend future financial distress, bankruptcy, or even closure. A four year period was examined for each of the hospitals selected that had either closed, declared bankruptcy or experienced financial distress during the period. Various financial variables were studied, including liquidity, leverage, profitability and efficiency. Utilizing previous studies on predicting financial failure and the findings of this study, various models are developed to determine if such prediction was possible for the five hospitals in this study. This study presents (1) the key indicators that were consistent in rendering the facilities financially distressed, and (2) the four year pattern of financial indicators.
Determinants Of CEO Cash Compensation In Small, Young, Fast Growing Firms
Authors: Barnes William , Harikumar T. , Roth Greg 
Published: March 2016

This study examines factors related to CEO cash compensation for a sample of publicly-held firms that are small, young, and growing. Our key finding is that founder CEOs accept lower cash compensation than non-founder CEOs. This evidence suggests that, for small, young, and growing firms, founder CEOs do not extract unusually large private benefits that harm outside shareholders. Weaker evidence suggests: firms with greater growth opportunities pay higher cash compensation to CEOs; firms with greater outsider representation on the board pay lower cash compensation to CEOs; and firms with greater inside director share ownership pay higher cash compensation to CEOs.
Antecedents, Consequences And Control Of Opportunistic Behavior In Strategic Networks
Authors: Yaqub Muhammad Zafar 
Published: March 2016

In the Strategic Management literature, the problem of cooperation arising from conflicts of interest has been described as the problem of motivation. Under assumptions of self-interest, or its stronger forms (such as opportunism), collectively beneficial outcomes do not result for because of the actions motivated by the self interests of individual members. In this paper, the author presents a host of antecedents that can spur and/or facilitate such opportunistic pursuits in members of a strategic network. The influence of these antecedents has been reflected in the ex-ante and ex-post phases of network life cycle. It is postulated that the problem can be resolved by securing an alignment in partners’ interest which together with alignment in actions contributes to the bottom line through increased ability to yield an integrated response to the adaptation requirements stemming from disturbances in networks’ environment. A detailed discussion been administered on how opportunism can be controlled through formal measures like contracts, TSIs, vertical integration and game theoretic stipulations, and the informal controls like relational norms, identification, and culmination of trust and commitment.