In the literature, auditory attention is explored through neural speech tracking, primarily entailing modeling and analyzing electroencephalography (EEG) responses to natural speech via linear filtering. Our study takes a novel approach, introducing an enhanced coherence estimation technique to assess the strength of neural speech tracking. This enables effective discrimination between attended and ignored speech. To mitigate the impact of colored noise in EEG, we address two biases–overall coherence-level bias and spectral peak-shifting bias. In a listening study involving 32 participants with hearing impairment, tasked with attending to competing talkers in background noise, our coherence-based method effectively discerns EEG representations of attended and ignored speech. We comprehensively analyze frequency bands, individual frequencies, and EEG channels. Frequency bands of importance are shown to be delta, theta and alpha, and the important EEG channels are the central. Lastly, we showcase coherence differences across different noise reduction settings implemented in hearing aids (HAs), underscoring our method's potential to objectively assess auditory attention and enhance HA efficacy.
Besides the quality of colour reproduction itself, there are other secondary print quality attributes. Secondary print quality evaluation is very important and is influenced primarily by the print method and type of substrate. For textile printers, there is an additional challenge related to macro non-uniformities due to the nature of the substrate. One of these secondary quality attributes is print mottle, which is influenced by macro non-uniformities that remain at the top layer of the print after the ink is fixed on the substrate. Print mottle values primarily consist of an analysis of macro non-uniformities and can be analysed using the Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM) method, among others. In this study, the GLCM method was used as well as the macro non-uniformity index or NU value verification method performed by ImageJ software. Four different textile printing methods and one cotton fabric substrate are used. The objective is to examine print mottle and the impact of printing method on macro non-uniformities. The printing methods include DTF, DTG, screen printing, and screen transfer printing. The aim is to compare the results of different printing methods and to determine their relation to perceived non-uniformity as assessed visually.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease in childhood, significantly contributing to both short- and long-term disability. While certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles are known to be associated with specific subgroups of JIA, emerging evidence suggests a strong correlation between these alleles and treatment response. This study involved 143 JIA patients diagnosed according to International League of Associations for Rheumatology criteria. Each patient underwent HLA class II typing, including HLA-B27, as well as tests for rheumatoid factor (RF) and antinuclear antibodies (ANA). Comprehensive rheumatological assessments were conducted at diagnosis, with follow-ups at three and six months post-onset. After six months of methotrexate (MTX) treatment, patients were categorized as responders or non-responders. Responders achieved clinically inactive disease based on the American College of Rheumatology Provisional Criteria for Defining Clinical Inactive Disease and Clinical Remission. Non-responders, who did not reach clinically inactive disease after six months of treatment, required the addition of another non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) or a biological DMARD. Our analysis revealed that the HLA-DRB1*01 allele is a significant prognostic marker for therapeutic response, predicting therapeutic resistance (P=0.01). The most prevalent HLA-DRB1 alleles in the treatment-resistant group were HLA-DRB1*08:11 (11.3%), HLA-DRB1*01:01 (8.5%), HLA-DRB1*01:13, HLA-DRB1*04:11 (7%), HLA-DRB1*08:13, and HLA-DRB1*08:15 (4.2%). These findings highlight the critical role of HLA class II alleles in pediatric rheumatology, particularly in relation to treatment response and disease prognosis. In the era of personalized medicine, understanding the genetic contributions to treatment response and outcomes in JIA patients is essential. A key limitation of this study was the lack of comparison of treatment responses across different JIA subtypes. Future studies should prioritize evaluating MTX efficacy within specific JIA subgroups to enable a more tailored understanding of its effectiveness.
Hrast kitnjak (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Lieblein) jedna je od ekonomski i ekološki vrlo važnih vrsta šumskog drveća i javlja se u oko 15% svih šuma u Bosni i Hercegovini. Prirodne populacije hrasta kitnjaka u Bosni i Hercegovini predstavljaju specifične zajednice koje se razlikuju od jedinki iz svog optimuma u zapadnoj, južnoj i istočnoj Europi, te predstavljaju genetičke specifikume bitne za očuvanje biološke raznolikosti hrasta kitnjaka u Europi. Istraživanjem morfoloških svojstava listova željelo se utvrdi stupanj unutarpopulacijske i međupopulacijske varijabilnosti hrasta kitnjaka na području Bosne i Hercegovine, te veze između variranja populacija u fenotipskim svojstvima i geoklimatskih čimbenika. Rezultati istraživanja bit će iskorišteni prilikom odabira mjera za očuvanje ove vrste šumskog drveća. Analizirano je 13 svojstava listova hrasta kitnjaka, sakupljenih sa 237 stabala iz 24 prirodne populacije. Rezultati su pokazali da su koeficijenti varijacije za sva mjerena svojstava u rasponu od 13.3% za duljinu plojke, do 26.5% za duljinu peteljke. Analiza varijance (ANOVA) otkrila je postojanje fenotipskih varijacija unutar i među populacijama. Varijacija unutar populacija bila je prosječno 28.44% i veća nego između populacija (prosječno 16.2%). Klaster analiza pokazala je razdvajanje populacija u dva glavna klastera, gdje su jednom klasteru pripale populacije Jajce Komotin i Fojnica, a drugom klasteru sve ostale populacije. Većina analiziranih svojstava lista (osim duljine peteljke, omjera širine i duljine lista i broja režnjeva) bila je u korelaciji sa geografskom širinom, srednjom temperaturom kvartala s najviše padalina i količinom padalina u najtoplijem kvartalu. Ovi rezultati mogu biti korišteni za očuvanje raznolikosti i upravljanje resursima hrasta kitnjaka u budućnosti.
Regulatorna tijela Bosne i Hercegovine koja su se pojavila u posljednjih dvadesetak godina u procesu intenzivne agencifikacije i u toj državi većinom su neistražena pojava. Stoga je cilj ovoga rada utvrditi koje su od velika broja agencija te države regulatori, kakve imaju ovlasti i neovisnost, kojem komparativnom modelu pripadaju, a posebice postoji li uopće model bosanskohercegovačkog regulatora. S tom su svrhom uspoređeni regulatorni modeli određenih država od posebne važnosti i analizirana pitanja neovisnosti i sadržaja regulatornih ovlasti. Utvrđeno je postojanje sedam regulatornih agencija na središnjoj razini vlasti te da je većina bosanskohercegovačkih regulatora dio državne uprave. Osim toga, neovisnost pojedinih regulatora jako varira – od relativno visoke u području energije i komunikacija do niske u reguliranju željezničkog prometa, pri čemu pojedini regulatori imaju različite uzore, od angloameričkih do europskokontinentalnih, te je konačan zaključak da model bosanskohercegovačkog regulatora uopće ne postoji.
The aim of this research was to examine the relationship between absolute and relative lower extremity strength and the efficiency of gymnastics vault performance. Thirty healthy, physically active male students (age: 20.84 ± 0.99 years; height: 179.46 ± 5.91 cm; body weight: 73.88 ± 6.43 kg) from the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education participated in the study. Absolute lower extremity strength was assessed by measuring the maximum load lifted (in kg) during a back squat (1RM). Relative lower extremity strength was calculated by dividing the estimated 1RM back squat by the participant's body weight (1RM/BW). Two types of vaults—the squat through (ST) and the front handspring (FHS)—were used to evaluate vault performance efficiency. Three criterion variables were applied: (d1) distance from the springboard in front of the vault, (d2) distance of landing beyond the vault, (d1 - d2) the difference between d1 and d2, and (pt) overall vault performance rating. The results showed statistically significant and strong correlations between both absolute and relative lower extremity strength and the variables measuring vault performance efficiency. The strongest correlations were observed for (d1), followed by (d2), (pt), and (d1 - d2). These findings can serve as guidelines for developing both absolute and relative lower extremity strength, which may lead to improved performance in gymnastics vaults.
The aim of the study is the isolation and identification of fungi using passive air sedimentation. This study analyzed 540 mycological samples from three primary schools in Zenica, collected in September, December, February, and May. Each season, 135 samples were taken from five rooms (two classrooms, a gym, a locker room, and a library) in each school. Samples were collected three times daily at three different heights with 15-minute exposure times. Samples were refrigerated and transported in sterile bags, incubated for 24 hours, and inoculated on specific agars with and without additives. Plates were incubated at 37°C and 25°C for up to 7 days, followed by examinations. Petri dishes were used for passive air sampling, and colonies were counted after incubation. The average number of microorganisms (CFU/m³) was calculated using Omeliansky’s method. Statistical methods included the Chi-squared test and p-value. Colony appearance was assessed visually and microscopically using a light microscope. Growth rate, size, structure, and color changes were monitored. In September, the highest mold concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (796 CFU/m³, not significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (1260 CFU/m³, not significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (3980 CFU/m³, significant). Penicillium spp. and Alternaria spp. were most prevalent, with Alternaria spp. significant at H. Kikić Primary School. In December, the highest mold/yeast concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (4578 CFU/m³, not significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (1924 CFU/m³, significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (2587 CFU/m³, not significant). Penicillium spp. was most prevalent. In February, the highest mold concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (4578 CFU/m³, not significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (2786 CFU/m³, not significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (5838 CFU/m³, significant). Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. were equally prevalent. In May, the highest mold/yeast concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (6568 CFU/m³, significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (3516 CFU/m³, significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (7431 CFU/m³, significant). Aspergillus spp. was most prevalent. These findings highlight the importance of regular monitoring and implementing appropriate ventilation measures to manage air quality and health concerns in schools.
PurposeThe purpose of this study is to empirically examine the indirect effect of big data analytics capability (BDAC) on performance through innovativeness and risk-taking among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by considering the moderating role of absorptive capacity (ACAP).Design/methodology/approachThis study utilized a quantitative method through a survey questionnaire. The hypotheses were tested with a sample size of 202 surveys completed by SME owners. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was administered to analyze data via the SmartPLS 4.0 software.FindingsThe analysis revealed that BDAC had an indirect effect on performance through innovativeness and risk-taking. ACAP strengthened the relationship between risk-taking and performance and also enhanced the link between BDAC and performance. Interestingly, ACAP weakened the connection between innovativeness and performance.Practical implicationsFrom a practical standpoint, our study offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs in the process of implementing BDAC. The mediating roles of innovativeness and risk-taking underscore their potential as drivers of SME performance. Also, it is crucial for managers to leverage lower-order capabilities (BDAC) to build higher-order organizational capabilities (innovativeness and risk-taking) and improve performance. Finally, managers are advised to utilize ACAP to identify external opportunities that contribute to performance.Originality/valueThe current study leverages the resource-based view (RBV) to provide new insights into the significance of innovativeness and risk-taking as key drivers to harness the benefits of BDAC for improving the performance of SMEs. Moreover, this study presents evidence of the moderating role of ACAP in the above relationships.
Mathematics, along with reading and writing, is a core academic subject in the school curriculum. The development of mathematical skills is influenced by various cognitive factors, with executive functions (EF) playing a central role. EF, which encompasses working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility, is critical for supporting complex cognitive processes required for problem-solving and mathematical reasoning. Research consistently shows that children with stronger EF tend to achieve better academic outcomes, including in mathematics. The goal of the present study was to examine the relationships between the global EF and its three core components - working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility - and their impact on mathematics achievement. The sample for this study consisted of 180 children, aged 8-11 years (mean age: 9.6, SD: 1.0 year; 83 girls, 97 boys). EF was assessed using the Yellow-Red test, while mathematics achievement was evaluated based on teachers' evaluations of the child's mathematics performance. The results indicated a statistically significant effect of global EF and its three components on mathematics achievement. Given the potential malleability of EFs, we conclude with recommendations for strategies to enhance EF development at an early school age.
There is little knowledge about within- and between-referee variation (WBRV) in cardiovascular responses (CVR) and locomotor game demands (LMD). Thus, the primary aim of this study was to assess the WBRV of CVR and LMD in male basketball referees during elite international games in preparation [e.g., warm-up (WU) and re-warm-up (R-WU)] and active game phases. The secondary aim was to explore quarter-by-quarter differences in CVR and LMD. Thirty-five international male referees took part in this study (age, 40.4 ± 5.4 years; body height, 184.9 ± 5.7 cm; body weight, 85.1 ± 7.5 kg; BMI, 24.0 ± 1.7 kg × m−2; fat%, 18.8 ± 4.7% and VO2max, 50.4 ± 2.2 L × kg−1 × min−1. In total, 76 games (e.g., 228 officiating cases) were analyzed during the FIBA elite men’s competition. They officiated 4.5 games on average (range 3–9 games). Each referee used the Polar Team Pro system to measure CVR [e.g., heart rate (HR), time spent in different HR intensity categories] and LMD (e.g., distance covered, maximal and average velocity, and number of accelerations). Results showed that the referees had bigger WBRV during the active and preparation (e.g., W-U than R-WU) phase when variables of higher CVR and LMD intensity were observed (e.g., time spent at higher HR zones, distance covered in higher speed zones). The WBRV, CVR, and LMD were higher during WU than R-WU. Moreover, the referees had a lower CVR and LMD in the second half. In conclusion, the referees should establish and follow consistently a game-to-game preparation routine and attempt to spread their on-court preparation time equally within the crew. A half-time preparation routine should be improved to re-establish a sufficient activation level similar to that achieved in pre-game preparation.
Rapid reaction-thermal diffusion during frontal polymerization (FP) with variations in initial and boundary conditions destabilizes the planar mode of front propagation, leading to spatially varying complex hierarchical patterns in polymeric materials. Although modern reaction-diffusion models can predict the patterns resulting from unstable FP, the inverse design of patterns, which aims to retrieve process conditions that produce a desired pattern, remains an open challenge due to the nonunique and nonintuitive mapping between process conditions and patterns. In this work, we propose a novel probabilistic generative model named univariate conditional variational autoencoder (UcVAE) for the inverse design of hierarchical patterns in FP-based manufacturing. Unlike the cVAE, which encodes both the design space and the design target, the UcVAE encodes only the design space. In the encoder of the UcVAE, the number of training parameters is significantly reduced compared to the cVAE, resulting in a shorter training time while maintaining comparable performance. Given desired pattern images, the trained UcVAE can generate multiple process condition solutions that produce high-fidelity hierarchical patterns.
This paper investigates the dynamics of non-autonomous cooperative systems of difference equations with asymptotically constant coefficients. We are mainly interested in global attractivity results for such systems and the application of such results to evolutionary population cooperation models. We use two methods to extend the global attractivity results for autonomous cooperative systems to related non-autonomous cooperative systems which appear in recent problems in evolutionary dynamics.
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