Arhitektura sustava za automatsko raspoređivanje poslova na heterogenim računalima visokih performanci zasnovana na metodama strojnoga učenja i dinamičkim parametrima rada

One of the most complex problems in high-performance computing (HPC) is the efficient allocation and management of resources. Performance, ease of use, and energy efficiency are key design goals. These goals are often opposed, making optimization challenging within the same system. This dissertation explores the problem of optimizing HPC systems. It proposes a new machine learning approach to dynamically evaluate workload parameters and automatically schedule jobs within an HPC environment based on the Kubernetes platform. Existing methods, including the use of virtual machines and physical servers, were analyzed, and shortcomings such as scalability, energy efficiency, and flexibility were identified. Containerization (Docker/Podman) was highlighted as a modern solution which brings challenges in resource management, network latency, and energy consumption optimization. The proposed system includes algorithms for dynamic estimation of the availability of computing nodes and optimized workload allocation using machine learning. The implementation of the system is based on the Kubernetes platform, which can work in heterogeneous environments (x86, ARM, RISC-V, NVIDIA GPU). Automation of deployment and configuration is enabled through Ansible, while the system's modularity allows for flexible integration of different network and resource configurations. The developed software platform allows users to efficiently run HPC applications with full automation or manual management as needed. The use of custom algorithms and the integration of an HPC workload manager with Kubernetes have improved operational efficiency, enabling more optimal resource use in dynamic HPC systems.Jedan od najsloženijih problema u računarstvu visokih performansi (HPC) je efikasno raspoređivanje i upravljanje resursima, pri čemu su ključni ciljevi dizajna performanse, jednostavnost korištenja i energetska učinkovitost. Ovi ciljevi često suprotstavljeni, čineći optimizaciju unutar istog sustava izazovnom. U ovoj se disertaciji istražuje problem optimizacije HPC sustava i predlaže novi pristup korištenjem strojnog učenja za dinamičku procjenu parametara radnog opterećenja i automatsko raspoređivanje poslova unutar HPC okruženja temeljenog na Kubernetes platformi. Analizirane su postojeće metode, uključujući korištenje virtualnih mašina i fizičkih poslužitelja, te su identificirani njihovi nedostaci poput skalabilnosti, energetske učinkovitosti i fleksibilnosti. Kao suvremeno rješenje istaknuta je kontejnerizacija (Docker/Podman), koja donosi izazove u upravljanju resursima, mrežnoj latenciji i optimizaciji energetske potrošnje. Predloženi sustav uključuje algoritme za dinamičku procjenu dostupnosti računalnih čvorova i optimizirano raspoređivanje radnih opterećenja koristeći strojno učenje. Implementacija sustava temelji se na Kubernetes platformi, s mogućnošću rada u heterogenim okruženjima (x86, ARM, RISC-V, NVIDIA GPU). Automatizacija implementacije i konfiguracije omogućena je putem Ansible-a, dok modularnost sustava omogućuje fleksibilnu integraciju različitih mrežnih i resursnih konfiguracija. Razvijena programska platforma omogućuje korisnicima jednostavno pokretanje HPC aplikacija uz potpunu automatizaciju ili ručno upravljanje prema potrebama. Korištenjem prilagođenih algoritama i integracijom HPC upravitelja radnog opterećenja s Kubernetesom poboljšana je operativna učinkovitost, čime se omogućuje optimalnije korištenje resursa u dinamičnim HPC sustavima

THE ROLE OF DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE AND ITS SULFATE, AS WELL AS BRAINDERIVED NEUROTROPHIC FACTOR IN DEMENTIA

Demencija predstavlja jedan od najznačajnijih medicinskih i ekonomskih izazova današnjice. Najčešći uzroci demencije su Alzheimerova bolest, obilježena nakupljanjem proteina Aβ i tau u mozgu, te vaskularna demencija, izazvana ograničenim dotokom krvi u mozak. Kako trenutno dostupne terapije samo ublažavaju simptome demencije, uz ograničenu učinkovitost i nuspojave, istraženi su neuroprotektivni učinci dehidroepiandrosterona i njegovog sulfata (DHEA(S)) te moždanog neurotrofnog čimbenika (BDNF). U istraživanju su korišteni stanični (primarna kultura neurona miševa C57BL/6 i stanična linija SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma čovjeka, izložene oligomerima Aβ, odnosno deprivaciji kisika i glukoze) i životinjski (miševi C57BL/6 injicirani s oligomerima Aβ i transgenični miševi 3xTg-AD) modeli demencija, te uzorci krvi ispitanika s demencijom i normalnom kognicijom. Rezultati istraživanja ukazuju na blago neuroprotektivno djelovanje DHEA(S)-a i BDNF-a u staničnim i životinjskim modelima demencije te na smanjene razine DHEA(S)-a i povećane razine BDNF-a u plazmi ispitanika s demencijom, upućujući na preventivni i/ili terapijski potencijal ovih supstanci, koji je potrebno dalje istražiti.Dementia represents one of the greatest medical and economic challenges today. Most common causes of dementia are Alzheimer’s disease, characterized by Aβ and tau accumulation in the brain, and vascular dementia, resulting from limited cerebral blood flow. Since available therapies only alleviate dementia symptoms, with limited efficacy and notable side effects, neuroprotective effects of dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfate (DHEA(S)) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were investigated. Research utilized cellular (primary neuronal culture from C57BL/6 mice and SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line, exposed to Aβ oligomers or oxygen and glucose deprivation), animal (C57BL/6 mice injected with Aβ oligomers and transgenic 3xTg-AD mice) dementia models, and blood samples from dementia and control subjects. Findings revealed mild neuroprotective actions of DHEA(S) and BDNF in cellular and animal models of dementia, and reduced DHEAS and elevated BDNF plasma levels in dementia patients, suggesting their preventive and/or therapeutic potential, which should be further investigated

Mechanism of interaction of transcription factors SloRfrom Streptococcus mutans and ScaR from Streptococcus gordonii with manganese (II) ions and DNA

Održavanje homeostaze iona prijelaznih metala neophodno je za preživljavanje i virulenciju bakterija. U bakterijama Streptococcus gordonii i Streptococcus mutans, primarnim kolonizatorima površine zuba, koncentracija dvostruko nabijenih kationa mangana (Mn(II)) regulirana je homodimernim transkripcijskim faktorima osjetljivim na Mn(II), ScaR i SloR, koji kontroliraju ekspresiju proteina uključenih u unos mangana. Kako bi se razjasnio mehanizam kojim vezanje Mn(II) utječe na vezanje proteina ScaR i SloR za DNA, primijenjene su različite računalne (QM i MD) i eksperimentalne (ITC, DSC, EMSA, FA, EPR i CD) metode. Računalni rezultati pokazali su da vezanje Mn(II) inducira konformacijsku promjenu proteina SloR i ScaR koja prvenstveno utječe na položaj i fleksibilnost DNA veznih domena te, posljedično, na afinitet vezanja proteina za DNA. Eksperimentalni rezultati otkrili su da proteini po monomeru vežu dva do tri iona Mn(II), koji stabiliziraju strukturu proteina. Računalna analiza kompleksa protein-DNA pokazala je da oblik DNA, definiran palindromskim nukleotidnim slijedom, igra ključnu ulogu u pravilnom pozicioniranju proteina na DNA.Maintaining transitional metal ion homeostasis is crucial for bacterial survival and virulence. In Streptococcus gordonii and Streptococcus mutans, manganese ion (Mn(II)) concentration is regulated by homodimeric transcription factors ScaR and SloR, which control the expression of proteins involved in manganese uptake. Various computational (QM and MD) and experimental (ITC, DSC, EMSA, FA, EPR, and CD) methods were used to elucidate how Mn(II) binding affects ScaR and SloR binding to DNA. Computational results showed that Mn(II) binding induces a conformational change in SloR and ScaR, affecting the position and flexibility of the DNA binding domains, and thus DNA binding affinity. Experimental results revealed that the proteins bind per monomer two to three Mn(II) ions, which stabilize the protein structure. Computational analysis of the protein-DNA complex indicated that the DNA shape, defined by a palindromic nucleotide sequence, is crucial for proper protein positioning on DNA

METAGENOMSKA ANALIZA MIKROBIOMA U UZORCIMA PRAŠINE U DOMOVIMA DJECE S ASTMOM

Household dust represents a complex microbial ecosystem with potential implications on respiratory health. This study, part of EDIAQI project, uses metagenomics to compare dust microbiomes in homes of children with and without asthma, highlighting indoor environment impacts on respiratory health. Analyses revealed distinct microbial signatures between the two groups, highlighting potential microbial indicators of asthma status. Bacterial and fungal communities showed distinct taxa differences, with Staphylococcus and Malassezia driving much of the variation. The study further supports existing evidence that indoor microbial communities are shaped by different influences, bacterial taxa are primarily driven by indoor factors such as human occupancy and activity, while fungal communities are more influenced by outdoor environmental conditions. This study is the first of its kind in Croatia and provides a valuable foundation for future investigations of respiratory health and indoor environment.Kućna prašina predstavlja složen mikrobni ekosustav s mogućim utjecajem na respiratorno zdravlje. Ovo istraživanje, provedeno u sklopu EDIAQI projekta, koristi metagenomske metode za usporedbu mikrobioma prašine u domovima djece s astmom i bez nje, naglašavajući utjecaj unutarnjeg okoliša na respiratorno zdravlje. Analize su otkrile različite mikrobne obrasce između dviju skupina, ukazujući na potencijalne mikrobne pokazatelje astmatskog statusa. Bakterijske i gljivične zajednice pokazale su razlike u prisutnosti pojedinih taksa, pri čemu su rodovi Staphylococcus i Malassezia glavni pokazatelji varijacija. Istraživanje dodatno potvrđuje postojeće dokaze da su mikrobne zajednice zatvorenih prostora oblikovane različitim utjecajima, bakterije ponajviše ovise o unutarnjim čimbenicima poput prisutnosti i aktivnosti ljudi, dok su gljivice više pod utjecajem vanjskih okolišnih uvjeta. Ovo je prvo istraživanje takve vrste u Hrvatskoj i pruža vrijednu osnovu za buduća istraživanja respiratornog zdravlja i unutarnjeg okoliša

THE EFFECT OF ASCORBATE ON SARCOMA-DERIVED CANCER STEM CELLS

Agresivnost sarkoma koja se očituje u otpornosti na terapiju i jakoj sklonosti metastaziranju se pripisuje tumorskim matičnim stanicama (CSC, engl. cancer stem cells). Kako bi se ispitala osjetljivost CSC sarkoma na askorbat, CSC su izolirane iz šest uzoraka sarkoma te je potvrđen njihov matični karakter. Ispitivanje citotoksičnosti askorbinske kiseline, dehidroaskorbinske kiseline i askorbil palmitata ugrađenog u čvrste lipidne nanočestice na CSC je pokazalo kako je optimalno primjenjivati askorbat u slobodnom obliku. Uz to, prisutnost bazičnog fibroblastnog faktora rasta (bFGF) utječe na citotoksični učinak askorbata. Sedmodnevni tretman CSC askorbatom u slobodnom obliku je ukazao kako dehidroaskorbinska kiselina u prisutnosti bFGF postiže jači učinak na oksidacijski stres, ali i stanični metabolizam. Ustanovljeno je kako u liposarkomu i rabdomiosarkomu proliferacijski signali od bFGF i mutiranih signalnih puteva u prisutnosti dehidroaskorbinske kiseline ne dovode do proliferacije već do stanične smrti.The aggressiveness of sarcomas, characterized by therapy resistance and high metastatic potential, is attributed to cancer stem cells (CSC). To investigate the sensitivity of sarcoma CSC to ascorbate, CSC were isolated from six sarcoma samples, and their stemness was confirmed. Cytotoxicity testing of ascorbic acid, dehydroascorbic acid, and ascorbyl palmitate incorporated into solid lipid nanoparticles on CSC demonstrated that ascorbate in free form is optimal for application. Additionally, the presence of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) influenced cytotoxic effects. A seven-day treatment of CSCs with free-form ascorbate revealed that dehydroascorbic acid in the presence of bFGF had a stronger impact on oxidative stress and cellular metabolism. It was found that, in liposarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma, proliferative signals from bFGF and mutated signaling pathways, in the presence of dehydroascorbic acid, do not lead to proliferation but instead cause cell death

Pružanje usluga fleksibilnosti elektroenergetskom sustavu korištenjem odziva potrošnje kućanstava i vodikovih tehnologija

Activating passive electricity consumers and integrating hydrogen technologies are crucial for transitioning to a stable, low-carbon power system. The residential sector holds significant potential for providing flexibility services to the power system but also poses challenges due to consumer inertia and the risk of disrupting their comfort. On the other hand, leveraging the existing gas infrastructure for integrating hydrogen technologies could accelerate the deployment of electrolyzers and fuel cells as alternative sources of flexibility in the power system. Therefore, it is essential to develop models that enable optimal control of household appliances, considering consumer habits, needs, and preferences, as well as mathematical models of hydrogen technologies and energy storage and their market performance, in order to fully harness their potential in the transformation of the power system.Aktivacija pasivnih potrošača električne energije i integracija vodikovih tehnologija ključni su za prelazak na stabilan, niskougljični elektroenergetski sustav. Stambeni sektor nudi veliki potencijal za pružanje usluga fleksibilnosti elektroenergetskom sustavu, no istovremeno predstavlja izazov zbog tromosti potrošača i rizika narušavanja njihove udobnosti. S druge strane, iskorištavanje postojećeg plinskog sustava za integraciju vodikovih tehnologija može ubrzati aktiviranje elektrolizatora i gorivnih ćelija kao dodatnih izvora fleksibilnosti u elektroenergetskom sustavu. Stoga je važno razviti modele koji omogućuju optimalno upravljanje kućanskim uređajima, uzimajući u obzir navike, potrebe i želje potrošača, te matematičke modele vodikovih tehnologija (elektrolizatora i gorivnih članaka) i baterijski spremnika energije te njihovog nastupa na energetskim tržištima kako bi se u potpunosti iskoristio njihov potencijal u transformaciji elektroenergetskog sustava

The world in the (self)constitution of the transcendental subject

Ovaj rad se prvenstveno bavi temom konstitucije unutar Husserlove fenomenologije i svim bitnim momentima koji pritom dolaze u obzir. Transcendentalna subjektivnost se, kroz istra~ivanja u polju iste svijesti, kroz intencionalne analize i transcendentalnu refleksiju, pokazala sredibnjom to kom konstitucije, koju treba shvatiti kao <događanje u transcendentalnoj subjektivnosti=. Ona je aktivni pol intencionalnog odnosa, svaki predmetni smisao konstituira se u njoj (ona je istovremeno i samokonstituiraju a). S druge strane, svijet kao intencionalni korelat transcendentalne subjektivnosti nema bitak po sebi, ve uvijek upu uje na nju kao na praizvor stvaranja. U radu je pokazano da konstitucija nije samo <pubtanje da se bivstvuju e vidi u svojoj predmetnosti=, ve da ona za Husserla ima i dublji smisao te je u svom bitnom dijelu inidbena, stvarala ka djelatnost transcendentalnog subjekta. Ti uvidi ne ostaju samo u strogo teoretskim okvirima, nego imaju dalekose~ne implikacije, kako na ostale filozfijske discipline tako i na sve druge slojeve ~ivotnoga svijeta.This paper primarily deals with the topic of constitution within Husserl's phenomenology and all the important moments that come into consideration. Transcendental subjectivity, through research in the field of pure consciousness, through intentional analyzes and transcendental reflection, proved to be the central point of the constitution, which should be understood as "an event in transcendental subjectivity". It is the active pole of the intentional relationship, every objective sense is constituted in it (it is also self-constitutive at the same time). On the other hand, the world as an intentional correlate of transcendental subjectivity does not have a being in itself, but always refers to it as the primordial source of creation. The paper shows that the constitution is not only "allowing the existing to be seen in its objectivity", but that for Husserl it also has a deeper meaning and is in its essential part the active, creative activity of the transcendental subject. These insights do not remain only in strictly theoretical frameworks, but have far-reaching implications, both for other philosophical disciplines and for all other layers of the life world

Development of experimentally based computational model for seismic resistance analysis of hybrid panel composed of clt frame and laminated load-bearing glass

Suvremena arhitektura teži transparentnim pročeljima, što često vodi ka problemu prijenosa opterećenja na rubnim bridovima građevine, posebice pri lateralnim djelovanjima. Tehnološka rješenja napredovala su toliko da staklo, osim sekundarne uloge u ovojnici zgrade, može ujedno dobiti i nosivu ulogu. U literaturi je poznat veći broj različitih kompozitnih sustava, gdje je za (pot)konstrukciju korišten čelik ili aluminij, a na koju je stakleni panel pričvršćen točkasto u kutovima ili kontinuirano duž bridova. Nosivo staklo u kombinaciji s drvenim okvirom pak, predstavlja hibridni sustav s dobrim predispozicijama pri lateralnim djelovanjima, dobrim karakteristikama nosivosti na vertikalno opterećenje u ravnini i horizontalno van ravnine, a istovremeno je estetski zanimljiv sustav, energetski efikasan, ekološki prihvatljiv te financijski konkurentan. Prototip nove generacije ovakvog tipa hibridnih panela, autora Rajčić i Žarnić, ističe se izuzetnom razinom duktilnosti i trošenja seizmičke energije, uz osiguranje dostatne razine nosivosti i uporabivosti. Nastavno na istraživanja koja su proveli Antolinc i Stepinac te istraživanja u sklopu projekta HRZZ-a IP-2016-06-3811, cilj ove disertacije je putem eksperimentalnih istraživanja unaprijediti spoznaje o nosivim hibridnim panelima drvo – nosivo staklo te na temelju zaključaka, definirati računski model za analizu panela pod seizmičkim djelovanjima. U svrhu definiranja svih parametara koji utječu na ponašanje panela, provedena su eksperimentalna istraživanja. Ona su podloga za provedbu računskih analiza. Na temelju dobivenih rezultata omogućeno je donijeti univerzalne analitičke izraze i utemeljene uvjete nužne za projektiranje gradnje i sanacija građevina u potresnom okruženju korištenjem ovog tipa konstrukcijskog elementa.The use of large vertical glass surfaces in modern architecture is inevitable. However, due to the brittle nature of glass as a material, such elements can pose a serious threat to building users when the structure is exposed to seismic or other lateral loads. Therefore, glass elements are mainly used as secondary. On the other hand, the popular glazing of predominantly southern facades of buildings and the resulting lack of load-bearing vertical elements with significant rigidity results in an irregular location of the center of rigidity in relation to the center of mass of the building, which leads to significant torsional effects during lateral actions. In facade systems, glass elements are not considered load-bearing entities. However, in modern composite systems, glass elements participate in the load transfer equally with the rest of the basic structure. Such systems require the absorption of part of the seismic load, i.e., energy dissipation, while maintaining the necessary level of resistance to lateral and vertical actions. Technological solutions have advanced so much that glass, in addition to its secondary role in the building envelope, can also have a load-bearing role. A large number of different composite systems are known in the literature, where steel or aluminum is used for the (sub)structure, and to which the glass panel is attached pointwise in the corners or continuously along the edges. Load-bearing glass in combination with a timber frame, on the other hand, represents a hybrid system with good predispositions to lateral actions, good load-bearing characteristics for vertical loads in the plane and horizontal loads out of the plane, and at the same time it is an aesthetically interesting system, energy-efficient, environmentally friendly and financially competitive. Authors Rajčić and Žarnić defined a hybrid panel that significantly deviates from the behavior of previously researched systems by inserting a glass panel into a timber frame in which the joints at the nodes are made with a bonded-in rod. Through research by Antolinc and Stepinac and research by the Croatian Croatian Science Foundation project IP-2016-06-3811 VETROLIGNUM, the initial idea was optimized. The hysteresis response showed data on the very ductile behavior of the joint in the corners of the timber frame and on the excellent way of dissipating seismic energy, which is also contributed by overcoming the friction force between wood and glass. This concept of a wall element not only transfers the vertical load, but also achieves a sufficiently resistant and ductile stabilizing role that does not cause glass breakage. The main goal of this dissertation was, through experimental, analytical and numerical research, to improve the knowledge about the load-bearing hybrid panel timber – load-bearing glass and, based on the conclusions, to define a calculation model for the analysis of the load-bearing capacity and usability of the panel. Therefore, the research in the thesis is directed towards the segments of the panel for which it turned out that there are deficient data or the same has been insufficiently researched. In order to appreciate the specifics of the panel and its components, a critical analysis of known theoretical models and existing standardized expressions was carried out. By adapting them and using different analytical and numerical methods, an experimentally based computational model was proposed. After conducting the research, the following conclusions can be drawn: • The hybrid timber – load bearing glass panel is applicable as a load-bearing structural element under various boundary conditions, not only when there is an induced vertical load, but also in the case when it is equal to the self-weight of the element. • In addition to the connection in the node of the timber frame of the hybrid panel, a significant part of the energy consumption is provided by the friction between the wood and the glass. However, there are certain discrepancies between the data obtained from experimental research and the data from the literature. • The calculation models presented in various standards imply the use of glass panels as secondary elements, which neglects their potentially positive effect on the load-bearing capacity. This thesis presents an experimentally based calculation model for analyzing the resistance of a glass panel in combination with a timber frame. Therefore, the hybrid panel does not have to be neglected as an opening, but there is a basis for calculating its load-bearing capacity and usability as a structural element. • By comparing the results obtained from the research and the results derived from the standardized analytical expressions for the load-bearing capacity and usability of the joint with bonded-in rods, it was concluded that the same expressions do not fully describe the behavior of the joint itself in a correct way. • Numerical research methods can be used to obtain a more detailed insight into the behavior of such a load-bearing element, as well as its individual parts. The presented method of numerical modeling, which is based on experimentally determined input data, represents a simpler approach for design that results in sufficiently accurate data, both in the linearly elastic range and in the plastic range. • Parametric analyses of the hybrid panel in the elastic range of behavior confirmed that the load-bearing capacity is significantly affected by the height of the panel, while increasing the length has a favorable effect. Other parameters logically affect the increase/decrease in the resistance and stiffness, or ductility of the system. In conclusion, the research results presented in this thesis confirm the initially set hypothesis (H1) that experimental research and numerical analyses will enable obtaining data on the influence of the bonding agent and the geometric and material characteristics of the elements on the seismic resistance and ductility of the timber – load-bearing glass hybrid panel. However, the hypothesis (H2) that, based on the obtained data and existing standardized expressions, it is possible to determine universal analytical expressions for the dimensioning of a panel suitable for construction and reinforcement, has not been fully confirmed. The reason lies in the fact that the standardized expressions for determining the resistance and stiffness of joints with bonded-in rods cannot be fully accepted as such and that a certain revision of them is required, as explained in the thesis. Furthermore, the focus of the thesis was not so much on the application of hybrid panels for the purpose of reinforcement, that is, it was only marginally mentioned, and it is certainly necessary to conduct additional research in the direction as stated below in the text. From a review of the available literature, it can be concluded that there is a limited number of studies of timber-glass composite systems exposed to a combination of vertical and variable horizontal in-plane loading (essentially, exposed to seismic actions). In this thesis, the behavior of the hybrid panel is extensively analyzed using experimental, analytical and numerical methods in order to better describe this specific structural element, which also represents the essence of the contribution of science in the considered area. From the results of the research and the conclusions reached, the original scientific contribution of this work is reflected in the following: • The overview of the state of the art in the field of composite systems research has been supplemented, or rather expanded. • Parametric experimental studies have been conducted to accurately determine the coefficient of friction between glass and wood for various glass panel formations. This parameter is extremely important as input data for analytical and numerical models. • Parametric experimental studies of the hole envelope strength of cross-laminated timber in a joint with a bonded-in steel bar have been conducted, with the nominal diameter of the bar (M10, M14 and M16) and the direction of the fibers (two directions) being varied as parameters. • Parametric experimental studies of a joint with a bonded-in steel rod in a timber frame node have been conducted, with the nominal diameter of the bar (M10, M14 and M16) and the level of bending moment (two levels) being varied as parameters. • Based on the two latter studies, a clearer picture of the behavior of the bonded-in rod joint was obtained when the joint was simultaneously exposed to a bending moment, i.e., shear action and the action of the joint pulling out. The results in question are certainly useful and as a certain supplement to the insufficient knowledge available in the literature. Given that the joint itself indirectly defines the behavior of the hybrid panel, this approach is essential in order to be able to better describe the behavior of the joint in the node of a wooden frame, and this separately from the system. • Experimental studies of hybrid panels were supplemented by testing samples in real size under monotonic and cyclic loading protocols, for the case when the panels are vertically loaded only by their own weight. In this way, the simplified behavior of the panel in the plane during seismic actions was simulated, for the lowest level of vertical load, in order to gain a better insight into the behavior of the panel itself. • Experimental investigations of hybrid panels were carried out by testing real-size samples under a quasi-static, i.e., cyclic out-of-plane loading protocol for panels that were previously tested in-plane. In this way, the simplified out-of-plane behavior of the panel during seismic actions was simulated, all in order to confirm the assumptions that the panel meets the prescribed load-bearing and usability conditions even when it is laterally loaded out of plane. • The existing standardized expressions were critically reviewed and a proposal was given for the analytical expressions of the redistribution of forces and stiffness both for the joint in the node of the timber frame and for the entire hybrid panel. Analytical expressions for dimensioning the hybrid panel were proposed. • Experimentally based numerical models of the joint behavior with a bonded-in rod are presented, as a basis for defining the joint behavior in the numerical model of the hybrid panel. • Also in the computer program DLUBAL RFEM, the entire hybrid panel was modeled in such a way that the contact connections between the glass panel and the timber elements were given, which only transmit pressure and contact shear immediately before overcoming friction, while the joints in the nodes of the timber frame were defined by nonlinear springs. This simplified model showed relatively good agreement with the results of experimental research on real-size samples. • The presented analytical and numerical models, as a basis for parametric analyses, enable further research on simulations of the behavior of hybrid panels. • A parametric analysis of the influence of the geometric characteristics of the elements and the diameter of the bonded-in rod and boundary conditions on the resistance and stiffness of the hybrid panel in the elastic (linear) behavior range was performed. • The research results supplement the existing knowledge that leads to the introduction of such a structural element into practice. Looking at the overall concept of the hybrid panel, after gaining new knowledge through the research presented in this thesis, certain recommendations were made for further research that would have a scientific contribution, but also accelerate the introduction of the panel into practice. The recommendations can be divided into three categories: research related to system optimization, research of the general nature of panel behavior, and research into the calculation of load capacity and panel usability

The model of applying academic crowdsourcing within Glagolitic texts research projects

Primjena masovne podrške u humanističkim znanostima i znanstvenim projektima iz područja digitalne humanistike nedovoljno je istraženo područje u Republici Hrvatskoj. Istraživački problem od kojeg polazi ova doktorska disertacija upravo su nejasne i nedovoljno istražene mogućnosti primjene navedenog fenomena u znanstvenim projektima u području humanističkih znanosti odnosno digitalne humanistike u Republici Hrvatskoj. Aktivnost masovne podrške u ranoj je fazi primjene u području digitalne humanistike u Republici Hrvatskoj, a jedan od najranijih primjera projekta proveden je u sklopu Centra za istraživanje glagoljaštva Sveučilišta u Zadru u kojemu se šira javnost uključila u transliteraciju glagoljskih tekstova. S obzirom na dosadašnja nastojanja u primjeni aktivnosti masovne podrške u istraživanju glagoljskih tekstova, ova disertacija usmjerena je na daljnja istraživanja mogućnosti primjene masovne podrške upravo u znanstvenim projektima u kojima se istražuju glagoljski tekstovi. Ciljevi rada su izraditi model primjene masovne podrške u znanstvenim projektima istraživanja glagoljskih tekstova koji je usklađen s istraživačkim procesom znanstvenika, uvidjeti mogućnosti, prednosti i prepreke primjene masovne podrške u znanstvenim projektima istraživanja glagoljskih tekstova te predložiti oblike uključivanja informacijskih stručnjaka u one projekte DH koji uključuju primjenu masovne podrške. Svrha istraživanja u doktorskoj disertaciji je razvoj modela primjene masovne podrške u znanstvenim projektima istraživanja glagoljskih tekstova, te rasvjetljavanje uloge koju informacijski stručnjaci imaju u tim projektima. Istraživanje se temelji na kvalitativnom istraživačkom pristupu u sklopu kojeg se primjenilo nekoliko različitih kvalitativnih metoda – kvalitativna analiza sadržaja, Delfi studija i polustrukturirani intervju. Istraživanje je provedeno u nekoliko faza. U prvoj fazi primijenjena je metoda kvalitativne analize sadržaja mrežnih stranica znanstvenih projekata usmjerenih na istraživanja tekstova kako bi se definirale i klasificirale digitalne metode koje koriste znanstvenici pri istraživanjima tekstova, a koje potencijalno mogu ili već koriste znanstvenici iz područja glagoljaštva pri istraživanju glagoljičnih tekstova. Najiscrpnija, 2. faza istraživanja iziskivala je primjenu Delfi studije koja se sastojala od četiri iteracije unutar kojih se primijenila metoda polustrukturiranog intervjua s ciljem postizanja konsenzusa mišljenja od grupe znanstvenika, i to u pogledu istraživačkog procesa znanstvenika unutar tekstno orijentiranih projekata u području glagoljaštva, istraživačkih metoda koje primjenjuju, mogućnosti primjene masovne podrške u određenoj fazi istraživačkog procesa i primjenom određene digitalne metode te potencijalne uloge koju informacijski stručnjaci mogu imati u takvih projektima. Tijekom 2. faze Delfi studije u istraživanju je primijenjena kvalitativna analiza sadržaja kako bi bili analizirani oni projekti koji primjenjuju aktivnost masovne podrške u području digitalne humanistike, u cilju definiranja digitalnih metoda koje podržavaju uključivanje javnosti u znanstvenim projektima istraživanja tekstova i uloge koju informacijski stručnjaci imaju u takvim projektima. Posljednja, treća faza istraživanja uključivala je izradu prijedloga modela za uključivanje informacijskih stručnjaka u projekte masovne podrške koji se temeljio na rezultatima prethodnih faza istraživanja provedenih u sklopu Delfi studije. Na temelju rezultata istraživanja i teorijskih postavki o primjeni masovne podrške u znanosti i znanstvenim projektima predložen je model primjene masovne podrške u znanstvenim projektima istraživanja glagoljskih tekstova. Doktorska disertacija istražuje i opisuje potencijal aktivnosti masovne podrške u projektima digitalne humanistike, odnosno znanstvenim projektima u kojima se istražuju glagoljski tekstovi i u kojima šira javnost transliterira dio tih tekstova. Kompleksan metodološki okvir omogućio je identifikaciju prednosti i izazova primjene aktivnosti masovne podrške u znanstvenim projektima u području digitalne humanistike. Istraživanje je pružilo i uvid u percepcije znanstvenika, kvalitetu rezultata aktivnosti masovne podrške i njihovu upotrebljivost te doprinos do kojega može dovesti primjena masovne podrške u znanstvenim projektima u kojima se istražuju glagoljski tekstovi. Istraživanje je rezultiralo i izradom prijedloga modela uključivanja informacijskih stručnjaka u organizaciju projekata masovne podrške. Predloženi model prikazuje ulogu koju informacijski stručnjaci mogu imati unutar pet faza modela primjene masovne podrške u znanstvenim projektima koji je nastao na temelju rezultata istraživanja u ovoj doktroskoj disertaciji. Istraživanje je ponudilo nove spoznaje o mogućnostima i načinima primjene aktivnosti masovne podrške u području digitalne humanistike i istraživanjima glagoljskih tekstova te otvorilo mogućnosti za daljnja i dublja istraživanja uloge informacijskih stručnjaka u takvim projektima.The application of academic crowdsourcing in the humanities and scientific projects in the field of digital humanities is an insufficiently researched area in the Republic of Croatia. The research problem this doctoral dissertation starts from is precisely the unclear and insufficiently researched possibilities of applying the aforementioned phenomenon in scientific projects in the field of humanities, or digital humanities, in the Republic of Croatia. Academic crowdsourcing as an activity is in an early phase of application in the field of digital humanities in the Republic of Croatia, and one of the earliest examples of the project was carried out within the Center for Research in Glagolitism at the University of Zadar, where the general public was involved in the transliteration of Glagolitic texts. Given the previous efforts in the application of academic crowdsourcing activities in the research of Glagolitic texts, this dissertation is focused on further research into the possibilities of applying academic crowdsourcing precisely in scientific projects in which Glagolitic texts are researched. The objectives of the work are to develop a model for the application of academic crowdsourcing in scientific projects for the research of Glagolitic texts that is aligned with the research process of scientists, to identify the possibilities, advantages, and obstacles to the application of academic crowdsourcing in scientific projects for the research of Glagolitic texts, and to propose forms of involving information experts in Digital Humanities projects that include the application of academic crowdsourcing. The purpose of the research in the doctoral dissertation is to develop a model for the application of academic crowdsourcing in scientific projects for the research of Glagolitic texts and to shed light on the role that information experts play in these projects. The research is based on a qualitative research approach in which several different qualitative methods were applied - qualitative content analysis, Delphi study, and semi-structured interview. The research was conducted in several phases. In the first phase, the method of qualitative analysis of the content of the web pages of scientific projects focused on text research was applied to define and classify the digital methods used by scientists in the research of texts, and which can potentially be or are already used by scholars in the field of Glagolitic research and research of Glagolitic texts. The most exhaustive, 2nd phase of the research required the application of a Delphi study, which consisted of four iterations within which the method of semi-structured interviews was applied to achieve a consensus from a group of scientists, regarding the research process of those scientists within text-oriented projects in the field of Glagolitic, research methods that they apply, the possibilities of applying academic crowdsourcing in a certain phase of the research process and using a certain digital method, and the potential role that information experts can play in such projects. During the 2nd phase of the Delphi study, qualitative content analysis was applied in the research to analyze those projects that implement crowdsourcing activities in the field of digital humanities with the aim of defining digital methods that support public involvement in scholarly text research projects and the role that information professionals play in those projects. The final, third phase of the research involved developing and proposing a model for involving information experts in academic crowdsourcing projects, based on the results of the previous phases of research conducted as part of the Delphi study. Based on the research results and theoretical assumptions on the application of academic crowdsourcing in science and scientific projects, a model for the application of academic crowdsourcing in scientific projects investigating Glagolitic texts has been proposed. The doctoral dissertation explores and describes the potential of academic crowdsourcing activity in digital humanities projects, i.e. scientific projects in which Glagolitic texts are researched and in which the general public transliterates part of these texts. A complex methodological framework has enabled the identification of the advantages and challenges of applying academic crowdsourcing as an activity in scientific projects in the field of digital humanities. The research has also provided insight into the perceptions of scientists, the quality of the results of academic crowdsourcing activity and its usability, and the contribution that the application of academic crowdsourcing in scientific projects in which Glagolitic texts are researched can bring. The research has also resulted in the development and proposal of a model for involving information experts in the organization of academic crowdsourcing projects. The proposed model shows the role that information experts can play within the five phases of the model for applying academic crowdsourcing in scientific projects that was created based on the research results in this doctoral dissertation. The research offered new insights into the possibilities and methods of implementing academic crowdsourcing activity in the field of digital humanities and research on Glagolitic texts and opened up opportunities for further and deeper research into the role of information experts in such projects

Application of numerical and experimental methods in the development of a polymer solar collector

Direktno iskorištavanje solarne energije u zgradarstvu ostvaruje se kroz fotonaponske i solarne toplinske sustave. Unatoč visokoj učinkovitosti, solarni toplinski sustavi i dalje nisu u velikoj mjeri zastupljeni na tržištu. Dugogodišnji poticaji i snažna politička potpora učinili su fotonaponske sustave vodećom tehnologijom za direktno iskorištavanje solarne energije. To je dovelo do smanjenja troškova proizvodnje i rada fotonaponskih sustava, što je rezultiralo konkurentnijim cijenama električne energije. Tradicionalno korišteni materijali za solarne kolektore, poput stakla, bakra, aluminija i mineralne vune, značajno utječu na cijenu solarnih toplinskih sustava, kao i troškovi rada kod sklapanja kolektora koje je većinom ručno. Problemi dobave i transporta dodatno povećavaju cijenu i produljuju vrijeme isporuke. Polimerni materijali predstavljaju potencijalnu alternativu konvencionalnim materijalima u proizvodnji solarnih kolektora, a karakterizira ih mala masa, mogućnost serijske proizvodnje i oblikovljivost, što može rezultirati dodatnim smanjenjem troškova i povećanjem tržišnog udjela. Lošija toplinska, mehanička i optička svojstva predstavljaju najveću prepreku širem korištenju polimernih materijala u proizvodnji solarnih kolektora. Ovo istraživanje usmjereno je na razvoj prototipa solarnog kolektora izrađenog u potpunosti od polimernog materijala (PVC-C). U prvoj fazi istraživanja provedeni su analitički proračuni metalnog pločastog kolektora, kao i numeričke simulacije radi verifikacije modela izmjene topline. Dobiveni rezultati poslužili su za definiranje konstrukcije prototipa, koji je proizveden ekstruzijom i podvrgnut ispitivanjima prema relevantnoj normi za određivanje toplinskih i mehaničkih karakteristika. U drugoj fazi istraživanja eksperimentalni rezultati korišteni su za verifikaciju numeričkih simulacija, koje su omogućile detaljniju analizu strujanja i procesa izmjene topline, te identifikaciju kritičnih mjesta za izmjenu topline. Numeričke simulacije su korištene u svrhu provođenja parametarske analize s ciljem daljnje optimizacije konstrukcije. Na temelju dobivenih rezultata u ovom radu definirane su smjernice za daljnji razvoj komercijalnog prototipa koji će moći zadovoljiti sve zahtjeve propisane relevantnom normom.The direct utilization of solar energy in buildings is achieved through photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. Despite their high efficiency, solar thermal systems are still not widely represented in the market. Long-term incentives and strong political support have made photovoltaic systems the leading technology for direct utilization of solar energy. Reduced production and operational costs associated with photovoltaic systems have resulted in competitive electricity prices. Traditional materials used for solar collectors, such as glass, copper, aluminum, and mineral wool, significantly impact the cost of solar thermal systems, as do labor costs associated with the mostly manual assembly of collectors. Supply and transport issues further increase costs and prolong delivery times. Polymeric materials represent a potential alternative to conventional materials in solar collector production. They are characterized by low mass, the possibility of serial production, and moldability, which can lead to additional cost reductions and increased market share. However, inferior thermal, mechanical, and optical properties remain the biggest challenge to the broader use of polymeric materials in solar collector production. This research focuses on developing a solar collector prototype made entirely of polymeric material (PVC-C). In the first phase of the research, analytical calculations of a metal flat plate collector were conducted, as well as numerical simulations to validate the heat transfer models. The results were used to define the design of the prototype, which was produced by extrusion and subjected to testing under relevant standards to determine thermal and mechanical characteristics. In the second phase of the research, experimental results were used to validate numerical simulations, which provided a more detailed analysis of flow and heat transfer processes, as well as the identification of critical areas for heat transfer. Numerical simulations were also used to conduct parametric analysis aimed at further optimizing the design. Based on the results obtained, guidelines for the further development of a commercial prototype were defined to meet all requirements specified by relevant standards