bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rising Trend of Caesarean Section in a Tertiary Hospital Over a Decade
Authors: Nazneen R , Begum RA , Sultana K
Published: January 2012

Background information: Since the early 1990s, emergency obstetric care (EmOC) in Bangladesh has played important role to reduce the maternal mortality rate. Along with other indicators of improved maternal care, there is a trend of rising caesarean section rates over the last decade affecting the economy of the country. According to demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 1993 and 2004, rate of caesarean section has risen from 2% to 6% which is more pronounced in urban area. Objective: To assess the indications and the trends of caesarean sections done over a 10-year period from 1995- 2004. Study Design: A retrospective observational study of the cases of caesarean sections over a decade. Study setting: Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College Hospital. Results: 23748 women were admitted in department of Obstetrics and Gynacology. Total deliveries were 21149(89.05% of total admission). The caesarean birth rate increased from 45.85% to 70.55%. The indications varied a little in cases of malpresentation and eclampsia. APH and IUGR has risen a little (from 2.56 to 2.6 to 1.83 to 2.34%) respectively. But proportion of repeat caesarean section and that of presumed foetal distress (or less foetal movement) increased (from 25.99 to 31.45% and from 8 to 15%), recently the indication, as maternal choice is also coming up (from .43 to .8%). The proportion has fallen in prolonged labour for cervical dystocia (from 17 to 2.6%) and obstructed labour (from 4.6% to .36%). The data were compared and analyzed by Z Test and corresponding P value was calculated which was not significant. Conclusion: Though caesarean section is a very safe intervention in obstetrics at present, crucial evaluation of the indications is advocated to reduce the rates of caesarean secion. Keywords: Caesarean section rates; Indications DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v29i3.9432 JBCPS 2011; 29(3): 126-132
Solid-Pseudopapillary Tumor of the Pancreas: Our Experience in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan ZR , Das BC , Chowdhury M , Uddin MS , Taher A , Hossain SM
Published: January 2012

Background: Solid-pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas (SPTPs) have been reported as rare lesions with “low malignant potential” occurring mainly in young women. This study was designed to understand clinicopathological characteristics of the disease, management strategy and outcome of this rare disease in Bangladesh. Methods: A retrospective review from January 2001 to December 2009 was performed. Clinicopathological, peroperative, postoperative and survival data were obtained from record file. Our cases were discussed in the light of published literature. Results: During this period, 31 patients were diagnosed as having SPTPs (6.9%). Twenty-four (77.4%) females and seven (22.6%) males were identified, with a median age of 24 years (range, 14–44). The median size of the lesions was 7.0 cm (range, 4.8–18). More than 90% presented with vague abdominal pain and lump. Twenty five patients had their primary tumors within the head of pancreas, the rest were in body and tail region. A total of 30 patients presented with local disease and underwent complete resection. One patient was found to have a very large tumor in the head with vascular invasion and underwent debulking of the tumor; which clinically reappear 1 year after debulking but still alive with episodic attacks of abdominal pain. All patients are surviving till date at a follow-up of 2 months to 9 years. Conclusions: SPTP occurs predominantly in women although it can occur in men. Young and middle aged groups are affected. Complete resection or debulking of locally invasive tumor is associated with long-term survival. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v29i3.9434 JBCPS 2011; 29(3): 138-142
Clinical and Bacteriological Profile of Neonatal Septicaemia at A Community Level Medical College Hospital
Authors: Ahmed ASMNU , Pervez MI , Paul BK , Bishwas KK
Published: January 2012

Septicaemia is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates. Meningitis is a serious problem in newborns with high mortality and frequent neurological sequelae. In neonates, signs and symptoms of infections are often obscure and clinical examination cannot distinguish septicaemic babies with or without meningitis. Therefore, lumbar puncture is often not done in time and thus diagnosis of meningitis is missed. Our aim was to see the association of bacterial meningitis in neonatal septicaemia and their clinical and bacteriological profile. This study was performed at the neonatal ward of Kumudini Women’s Medical College Hospital from August 2007 to July 2009. All admitted newborns diagnosed as septicaemia clinically were enrolled prospectively. Detailed history was taken, thorough clinical examination performed, and blood culture, CSF study and other relevant investigations were done. Patients received standard medical care and followedup daily till discharge/death. Among 86 suspected cases, 30 (34.9%) had positive blood culture. Common clinical presentations of culture-positive cases were poor feeding (86.7%), lethargy (70%), respiratory distress (56.7%), fever (46.7%), jaundice (33.3%), seizure (26.7%) and cyanosis (20%). Male child outnumbered the baby girls (1.7:1). Other risk factors were maternal fever during delivery, prolonged rupture of membranes, birth asphyxia and poor socioeconomic status. Majority (63.3%) of the cultures isolated gram-negative bacilli, most commonly Klebsiella pneumonia (16.7%), Pseudomonas sp. (16.7%), and Acinetobacter (10%). Staphylococcus aureus (20%) was most common among gram-positive organisms, followed by Streptococcus pneumoniae (10%); no Group B streptococcus was isolated. Associated meningitis was present in two cases (6.7%) and nine out of 30 culturepositive cases (30%) died. This study confirms that neonatal septicaemia is a major problem in perinatology with high case fatality. As associated meningitis is difficult to distinguish clinically, CSF study needs to be included in septicaemia screening. An alarming finding of the study is that high proportion of the organisms are resistant to most of the commonly used antibiotics, again emphasize the importance of judicious antibiotic use. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v29i3.9435 JBCPS 2011; 29(3): 143-150
Pulse Oximetry: The Fifth Vital Sign of Neonates
Authors: Das JC
Published: January 2012

When supplementation of oxygen is inappropriate there is chance of development of either hypoxia or hyperoxia. During oxygen therapy, oxygen level should be maintained within a target-able range through proper monitoring. Pulse oximetry is a useful convenient and reliable monitoring system. The principle of working of pulse oximeter is based on the fact that oxyhaemoglobin and deoxyhaemoglobin absorb light at the red end of the spectrum differently; Deoxyhaemoglobin absorbs more red than infrared and oxyhaemoglobin more infrared than red. The ‘emitter’ of the probe of pulse oximeter sends equal intensities of red and infrared light into the tissue. The ‘sensor’ detects the ratio of red to infrared that emerges. From this information the proportion of oxyhaemoglobin to deoxyhaemoglobinthat is, the percentage saturation of hemoglobin with oxygen is calculated and displayed to the monitor of the instrument. The main advantage of pulse oximeter is that it is noninvasive, less complex, does not require calibration, provides continuous measurement of hemoglobin-oxygen saturation (SpO2), fast response time and high accuracy. Limitations of accuracy of pulse oximetry lie on poor perfusion, hypoxic events, hyperemia, severe anemia, dyshemoglobinemias, high oxygen partial pressures (PaO2), superficial pigments, black skin of infant, motion artifact, pressure on sensor, presence of abnormal dye, light and electrical interference. It is essential to remember the limitations of this instrument before going to pulse oximetry. Key words: Pulse oximeter; neonate; vital signs; principals of working; limitations.
Pregnancy in Addisons Disease
Authors: Akhtar N
Published: January 2012

Pregnancy with Addison’s disease is very rare. Addison’s disease is caused by destruction or dysfunction of the adrenal cortices. A 25 years old lady with Addison’s disease receiving chronic treatment with prednisolone (5mg) 1+½+0 tab daily was admitted in 0bs & Gynae Department, BSMMU on 25th October,’09 with 2nd gravida , 38 wks of pregnancy. Caesarean section was done on 26th October, ’09. A male baby of 2.5 kg was delivered. Her peroperative and postoperative periods were uneventful. Inj. Hydrocortisone was given peroperatively and postoperatively. Patient was discharged on 7th P.O.D. with above dose of Tab prednisolone. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v29i3.9438 JBCPS 2011; 29(3): 163-165
Giant Schwannoma of Median Nerve at Forearm
Authors: Chowdhury FH , Haque MR , Islam MS , Sarkar MH
Published: January 2012

Schwannomas are common benign nerve tumors occurring in the peripheral nerves. A very large schwannoma of more than 7 years duration, originating from the median nerve in the forearm in a 40 years old woman, is reported. There was numbness and tingling sensation in the forearm and hand. It was 18 cm in length and 8 cm in diameter. On the palm, there were signs of sensory disturbance with atrophy on the thenar muscles. Surgical removal was performed under operating microscope by separating the nerve fascicles from the tumor. There were 2 more tumors (1.5x2cm) on median nerve at elbow above the mentioned one. Histological examination revealed schwannoma. At 3.5 year follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic with excellent relief of symptoms with good forearm and hand motor function, though thenar atrophy persisted. The tumor did not recur. Although cases have been reported in the literature, this is probably the largest ever described with 2 more adjacent schwannomas. Key words: Median nerve, Giant schwannoma, Forearm DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v29i3.9441 JBCPS 2011; 29(3): 174-176
Letter to the Editor RE: Treatment of Gout and Hyperuricemia (April Vol 29, No2,2011 Page 85-95)
Authors: Das Aparna
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcps.v29i3.9443 JBCPS 2011; 29(3): 180-181
Do Placebo Response Rates from Cessation Trials Inform on Strength of Addictions?
Authors: Moore Robert A. , Aubin Henri-Jean
Published: January 2012

There is an implied assumption that addictions to different substances vary in strength from weak (easier to stop) to strong (harder to stop), though explicit definitions are lacking. Our hypothesis is that the strength of addictions can be measured by cessation rates found with placebo or no treatment controls, and that a weaker addiction would have a higher cessation rate than a stronger addiction. We report an overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of cessation trials, using randomised or quasi-randomised trials and reporting objectively-measured abstinence. The outcome for comparison was quit rates–typically the percentage of participants abstinent according to an objective test of abstinence at six months or longer. Twenty-eight cessation reviews (139,000 participants) were found. Most data came from reviews of smoking cessation in over 127,000 participants, and other reviews each covered a few thousand participants. Few reviews used data from studies shorter than three months, and almost all determined abstinence using objective measures. Cessation rates with placebo in randomised trials using objective measures of abstinence and typically over six months duration were 8% for nicotine, 18% for alcohol, 47% for cocaine, and 44% for opioids. Evidence from placebo cessation rates indicates that nicotine is more difficult to give up than alcohol, cocaine, and opioids. Tobacco is also a severe addiction, with a number of major deleterious health effects in a large number of people.
Nanostructured Biomaterials for Tissue Engineered Bone Tissue Reconstruction
Authors: Chiara Gardin , Letizia Ferroni , Lorenzo Favero , Edoardo Stellini , Diego Stomaci , Stefano Sivolella , Eriberto Bressan , Barbara Zavan
Published: January 2012

Bone tissue engineering strategies are emerging as attractive alternatives to autografts and allografts in bone tissue reconstruction, in particular thanks to their association with nanotechnologies. Nanostructured biomaterials, indeed, mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the natural bone, creating an artificial microenvironment that promotes cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation. At the same time, the possibility to easily isolate mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from different adult tissues together with their multi-lineage differentiation potential makes them an interesting tool in the field of bone tissue engineering. This review gives an overview of the most promising nanostructured biomaterials, used alone or in combination with MSCs, which could in future be employed as bone substitutes. Recent works indicate that composite scaffolds made of ceramics/metals or ceramics/polymers are undoubtedly more effective than the single counterparts in terms of osteoconductivity, osteogenicity and osteoinductivity. A better understanding of the interactions between MSCs and nanostructured biomaterials will surely contribute to the progress of bone tissue engineering.
The Capricious Character of Nature
Authors: Keto Jaana , Annila Arto
Published: January 2012

The on-going whole genome sequencing and whole cell assays of metabolites and proteins imply that complex systems could ultimately be mastered by perfecting knowledge into great detail. However, courses of nature are inherently intractable because flows of energy and their driving forces depend on each other. Thus no data will suffice to predict precisely the outcomes of e.g., engineering experiments. All path-dependent processes, most notably evolution in its entirety, display this capricious character of nature.
A New Prenylated Flavanone from Derris trifoliata Lour.
Authors: Jiang Cheng , Liu Shengzi , He Weihong , Luo Xiongming , Zhang Si , Xiao Zhihui , Qiu Ximin , Yin Hao
Published: January 2012

A new flavanone, 4′,5,7-trihydroxy-6,8-di-(2-hydroxy-3-methylbut-3-enyl)- flavanone, was isolated from the aerial parts of Derris trifoliate, together with eleven known compounds: rotenone, tephrosin, 12a-hydroxyrotenone, deguelin, 6a,12a-dehydro-rotenone, dehydrodeguelin, 7a-O-methyldeguelol, 7a-O-methylelliptonol, 5,7,3',4'-tetra-hydroxy-6,8-diprenylisoflavone, daidzein and 4'-hydroxy-7-methoxyflavanone. 7a-O-Methylelliptonol was isolated for the first time from the genus Derris. Their structures were characterized on the basis of spectral data. Eight of the isolated compounds were found to be significantly toxic to brine shrimp (LC50 range 0.06–9.95 μg/mL). The new compound showed weak toxicity (LC50 = 211.31 μg/mL).
Novel Experimental and Clinical Therapeutic Uses of Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin/Protamine Microparticles
Authors: Kishimoto Satoko , Ishihara Masayuki , Takikawa Megumi , Mori Yasutaka , Hattori Hidemi , Fujita Masanori , Nakamura Shingo
Published: January 2012

Low-molecular-weight heparin/protamine microparticles (LMW-H/P MPs) were produced as a carrier for heparin-binding growth factors (GFs) and for various adhesive cells. A mixture of low-molecular-weight heparin (MW: approximately 5000 Da, 6.4 mg/mL) and protamine (MW: approximately 3000 Da, 10 mg/mL) at a ratio of 7:3 (vol:vol) yields a dispersion of microparticles (0.5–3 µm in diameter). LMW-H/P MPs immobilize, control the release and protect the activity of GFs. LMW-H/P MPs can also bind to cell surfaces, causing these cells to interact with the LMW-H/P MPs, inducing cells/MPs-aggregate formation and substantially promoting cellular viability. Furthermore, LMW-H/P MPs can efficiently bind to tissue culture plates and retain the binding of important GFs, such as fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2. The LMW-H/P MPs-coated matrix with various GFs or cytokines may provide novel biomaterials that can control cellular activity such as growth and differentiation. Thus, LMW-H/P MPs are an excellent carrier for GFs and various cells and are an efficient coating matrix for cell cultures.
Use of Variogram Parameters in Analysis of Hyperspectral Imaging Data Acquired from Dual-Stressed Crop Leaves
Authors: Nansen Christian
Published: January 2012

A detailed introduction to variogram analysis of reflectance data is provided, and variogram parameters (nugget, sill, and range values) were examined as possible indicators of abiotic (irrigation regime) and biotic (spider mite infestation) stressors. Reflectance data was acquired from 2 maize hybrids (Zea mays L.) at multiple time points in 2 data sets (229 hyperspectral images), and data from 160 individual spectral bands in the spectrum from 405 to 907 nm were analyzed. Based on 480 analyses of variance (160 spectral bands × 3 variogram parameters), it was seen that most of the combinations of spectral bands and variogram parameters were unsuitable as stress indicators mainly because of significant difference between the 2 data sets. However, several combinations of spectral bands and variogram parameters (especially nugget values) could be considered unique indicators of either abiotic or biotic stress. Furthermore, nugget values at 683 and 775 nm responded significantly to abiotic stress, and nugget values at 731 nm and range values at 715 nm responded significantly to biotic stress. Based on qualitative characterization of actual hyperspectral images, it was seen that even subtle changes in spatial patterns of reflectance values can elicit several-fold changes in variogram parameters despite non-significant changes in average and median reflectance values and in width of 95% confidence limits. Such scattered stress expression is in accordance with documented within-leaf variation in both mineral content and chlorophyll concentration and therefore supports the need for reflectance-based stress detection at a high spatial resolution (many hyperspectral reflectance profiles acquired from a single leaf) and may be used to explain or characterize within-leaf foraging patterns of herbivorous arthropods.
The Evolution of the Bacterial Luciferase Gene Cassette (lux) as a Real-Time Bioreporter
Authors: Close Dan , Xu Tingting , Smartt Abby , Rogers Alexandra , Crossley Robert , Price Sarah , Ripp Steven , Sayler Gary
Published: January 2012

The bacterial luciferase gene cassette (lux) is unique among bioluminescent bioreporter systems due to its ability to synthesize and/or scavenge all of the substrate compounds required for its production of light. As a result, the lux system has the unique ability to autonomously produce a luminescent signal, either continuously or in response to the presence of a specific trigger, across a wide array of organismal hosts. While originally employed extensively as a bacterial bioreporter system for the detection of specific chemical signals in environmental samples, the use of lux as a bioreporter technology has continuously expanded over the last 30 years to include expression in eukaryotic cells such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae and even human cell lines as well. Under these conditions, the lux system has been developed for use as a biomedical detection tool for toxicity screening and visualization of tumors in small animal models. As the technologies for lux signal detection continue to improve, it is poised to become one of the first fully implantable detection systems for intra-organismal optical detection through direct marriage to an implantable photon-detecting digital chip. This review presents the basic biochemical background that allows the lux system to continuously autobioluminesce and highlights the important milestones in the use of lux-based bioreporters as they have evolved from chemical detection platforms in prokaryotic bacteria to rodent-based tumorigenesis study targets. In addition, the future of lux imaging using integrated circuit microluminometry to image directly within a living host in real-time will be introduced and its role in the development of dose/response therapeutic systems will be highlighted.
The Effect of Growth Factors and Soluble Nogo-66 Receptor Protein on Transplanted Neural Stem/Progenitor Survival and Axonal Regeneration after Complete Transection of Rat Spinal Cord
Authors: Guo Xiaodong , Zahir Tasneem , Mothe Andrea , Shoichet Molly S. , Morshead Cindi M. , Katayama Yusuke , Tator Charles H.
Published: January 2012

Adult central mammalian axons show minimal regeneration after spinal cord injury due to loss of oligodendrocytes, demyelination of surviving axons, absence of growth-promoting molecules, and inhibitors of axonal outgrowth. In the present study, we attempted to address these impediments to regeneration by using a combinatory strategy to enhance cell survival and regeneration after complete spinal cord transection (SCT) in adult rats. The strategy comprised: 1) adult rat brain-derived neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) preseeded on laminin-coated chitosan channels; 2) extramedullary chitosan channels to promote axonal regrowth and reduce the barrier caused by scarring; 3) local delivery of a novel rat soluble Nogo-66 receptor protein [NgR(310)ecto-Fc, referred to as NgR] to block the inhibitory effect of myelin-based inhibitors; and 4) local delivery of basic fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor to enhance survival and promote differentiation of transplanted cells. Compared with our previous studies where brain-derived NSPCs preseeded in extramedullary chitosan channels were implanted in the same SCT model but without growth factors and NgR, the present channel–growth factor combination produced greater numbers of surviving NSPCs after SCT. Also, the growth factors promoted preferential differentiation of NSPCs toward oligodendrocytes, while NgR significantly decreased astrocytic differentiation of NSPCs. NgR alone or in combination with NSPCs significantly enhanced the total number of myelinated fibers in the bridge and increased the area of the bridging tissue between the cord stumps. The combination of NgR, growth factors, and NSPCs had synergistic effect on bridge formation. However, only a small number of descending corticospinal tract axons grew into the central portions of the bridges as shown by anterograde tracing of the corticospinal tract with BDA. The majority of the regenerated axons in the channels originated from local host neurons adjacent to the tissue bridges. In conclusion, we showed that growth factors increased survival of transplanted NSPCs whereas NgR enhanced axonal regeneration, but the combination did not have additive effects on functional recovery or regeneration.
OPTIMIZATION PROCEDURES FOR TOPOLOGICAL TASKS / APIE OPTIMIZAVIMO PROCEDŪRAS TOPOLOGINIUOSE UŽDAVINIUOSE / ПРОЦЕДУРЫ ОПТИМИЗАЦИИ В ТОПОЛОГИЧЕСКИХ ЗАДАЧАХ
Authors: Skeivalas Jonas
Published: January 2012

The paper analyzes the case of mathematical procedures. An appropriate minimizing function is used for solving optimization tasks. In some cases, for example dealing with tasks of topological transformation, the applied minimizing function has no point of minimum. For this reason, an answer to estimating the function of minimization is ambiguous, and thus we have an endless number of answers. In this case, the used genetic algorithm solves task with the help of the iteration method calculating the values of parameters considering the least deviations from nominal values. The article presents the theoretical analysis of establishing the negation of the minimum of the optimization function (solution ambiguity), when topological transformations are applied for optimizing land parcel borders drawn in cadastral maps.

Santrauka

Nagrinėjamas matematinių procedūrų atvejis, kai sprendžiant optimizavimo uždavinius taikoma atitinkama minimizavimo funkcija. Atliekant kai kurias procedūras, pvz., topologinių transformacijų uždaviniuose, taikoma minimizavimo funkcija neturi minimumo taško, todėl funkcijos minimizavimo nustatymo sprendinys yra nevienareikšmis, t. y. turime begalinį sprendinių skaičių. Tokiu atveju taikomas genetinis algoritmas sprendžia uždavinį iteraciniu metodu, apskaičiuodamas parametrų reikšmes pagal mažiausiuosius nuokrypius nuo nominaliųjų reiksmių. Straipsnyje pateikiama teorinė analizė, kaip nustatoma, kad neegzistuoja optimizavimo funkcijos minimumas (sprendinio daugiareikšmiškumas), kai žemės sklypų plotų riboms optimizuoti kadastro žemėlapiuose taikomos topologijos transformacijos.

Резюме

Рассматривается вариант математических процедур, когда при решении задач оптимизации используется соответствующая функция минимизации. В некоторых процедурных вариантах, напр., в задачах топологических трансформаций используемая функция минимизации не имеет точки минимума. Поэтому решение определения минимизации функции является неоднозначным, т. е. имеет бесконечное число решений. Используемый в таких задачах генетический алгоритм решает задачу итерационным методом и вычисляет значения соответствующих параметров по наименьшим отклонениям от номинальных значений. В статье представлен теоретический анализ для принятия заключения о том, что функция оптимизации не имеет минимума (решение многозначно) в случаях, когда для оптимизации рубежей земельных участков применяются топологические трансформации.
THE CULTURAL HERITAGE SPATIAL DATA SET OF KLAIPĖDA OLD TOWN / SAUGOMŲ KLAIPĖDOS SENAMIESČIO OBJEKTŲ ERDVINIŲ DUOMENŲ RINKINYS / НАБОР ПРОСТРАНСТВЕННЫХ ДАННЫХ ОХРАНЯЕМЫХ ОБЪЕКТОВ СТАРОГО ГОРОДА КЛАЙПЕДЫ
Authors: Kuklienė Lina , Jankauskienė Dainora , Kuklys Indrius
Published: January 2012

The purpose of the thesis is to analyze the main geodetic databases of Lithuania and to create a geodetic database of cultural heritage objects in Klaipėda using program ArcGIS 9.3. The problem is that the geodetic database storing graphical and attributive information about cultural heritage in Klaipeda city has not been created yet. Thus, in order to incorporate GIS technologies into the management of cultural heritage, starting the creation of such a database seems to be a relevant point. The fully completed and regularly updated geodetic database can be used for cultural heritage management, planning, design, road construction, etc. Therefore, the following objectives have been set: 1) describing geo-data collection and input devices; 2) stimulating the geodetic database that introduces information about buildings, building complexes, cemeteries, locations of archaeological and cultural heritage; 3) giving a detailed description of the database creation process; 4) analyzing the need for establishing a geodetic database of cultural heritage objects in Klaipėda.

Santrauka

Lietuvoje GIS pagrindu sukurta daug įvairiems tikslams skirtų georeferencinių bei teminių erdvinių duomenų rinkinių. Viena iš šių rinkinių panaudojimo sričių – valstybės registruose esančių duomenų kaupimas. Tokiu principu yra sukurta Kultūros vertybių registro duomenų bazė, kurios pagrindiniai duomenys buvo panaudoti kuriant Klaipėdos miesto kultūros paveldo objektų erdvinių duomenų rinkinį. Siekiant kuo operatyviau įtraukti GIS technologijas į kultūros paveldo objektų tvarkybą, aktualu Klaipėdoje pradėti kurti kultūros paveldo objektų erdvinių duomenų rinkinį. Nuolat atnaujinamas erdvinių duomenų rinkinys palengvins įvairių sričių specialistų atliekamus kultūros paveldo objektų administravimo, teritorijų planavimo, projektavimo, kelių tiesimo ir kitus darbus.

Резюме

В Литве на основе ГИС для различных целей создано множество гео-ссылок, а также тематических наборов пространственных данных. Область использования одного из множеств – сбор данных, имеющихся в государственном учете. По такому принципу создана регистрационная база культурных ценностей, основные данные которой были использованы при создании набора пространственных данных объектов культурного наследия города Клайпеды. С целью оперативно обеспечить управление объектами культурного наследия технологиями ГИС следует начать создание набора пространственных данных объектов культурного наследия в Клайпеде. Полностью заполненный и постоянно обновляемый набор пространственных данных облегчит работу специалистов в различных областях: администрировании объектов культурного наследия, планировании территорий, проектировании, строительстве дорог и других.
FINANCING REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT USING BONDS IN ASIA / NEKILNOJAMOJO TURTO STATYBŲ FINANSAVIMAS OBLIGACIJOMIS AZIJOJE
Authors: Lam Patrick T. I. , Chiang Yat Hung , Chan Stephen H.
Published: January 2012

During the global financial tsunami, banks were very cautious in financing business needs due to tight credit conditions. Alternative ways for financing projects were sought after by real estate developers worldwide. Within Asia, notably in Hong Kong SAR and Singapore, a number of reputable property developers have been tapping the capital debt market for funds in recent years amidst an increasingly regulated loan market and competitive pricing. In the face of a growing bond market, some corporate bond issues arranged by these property developers have been successful. Apart from investment appetite, property developers have to gauge carefully the pros and cons of raising funds through bond issues. Successful bond issues need to be structured with suitable credit enhancement features since the perception of risk and rising interest rates are major deterrents to potential investors who would otherwise face bond defaults or bear high opportunity costs with the committed funds. Through a number of case studies, the suitability of bond financing for property development is compared with loan financing. It is found that a close monitoring of market conditions and some foresight are essential ingredients for successful bond financing, for both straight bond issues and convertibles. Santrauka Siaučiant pasauliniam finansų cunamiui, dėl griežtų kreditavimo sąlygų bankai verslo poreikius finansavo labai atsargiai. Visame pasaulyje NT vystytojai ieškojo alternatyvių būdų, kaip finansuoti projektus. Pastaraisiais metais, kai paskolų rinka buvo vis labiau reguliuojama, o kainos konkurencingos, ne vienas gerbiamas NT vystytojas Azijoje, ypač Honkongo specialiajame administraciniame regione ir Singapūre, lėšų ieškojo kapitalo (obligacijų) rinkoje. Obligacijų rinkai augant, kai kurios tokių NT vystytojų išleistos įmonių obligacijų emisijos buvo sėkmingos. NT vystytojams reikia atidžiai įvertinti ne tik investicijų poreikį, bet ir visus lėšų rinkimo leidžiant obligacijas ,,už“ ir ,,prieš“. Idant obligacijų emisija būtų sėkminga, ją formuojant būtina deramai sustiprinti kreditą, nes tikėtina rizika ir augančios palūkanos yra pagrindiniai aspektai, kurie atbaido potencialius investuotojus, nes kitaip jiems tektų nemokios obligacijos arba didelės patikėtų lėšų alternatyviosios sąnaudos. Atliekant kelis atvejo tyrimus NT statybų finansavimo obligacijomis tinkamumas lyginamas su finansavimu paskolomis. Nustatyta, kad atidus rinkos sąlygų stebėjimas ir įžvalgumas yra būtini komponentai sėkmingam finansavimui obligacijomis išleidžiant tiek paprastųjų, tiek konvertuojamųjų obligacijų emisijas.
VALUATION OF MARKET UNCERTAINTIES FOR CONTAMINATED LAND / RINKOS NETIKRUMO VERTINIMAS UŽTERŠTŲ SKLYPŲ ATVEJU
Authors: Bartke Stephan
Published: January 2012

The revitalization of contaminated land carries many risks and uncertainties. This paper aims to reveal drivers of risk perception and to introduce a novel valuation method for the assessment of market-perceived risks for sites polluted by earlier use in a transparent and comprehensible procedure. International approaches to account for value deductions due to contaminations and resulting uncertainties are reviewed. Based on literature review and a national survey amongst German professional appraisers, a risk assessment methodology is elaborated, outlined and applied in a case study approach. We find that areas that have been properly decontaminated on average still have a depressed market value of 12.25%. Quantities such as location, time and feasibility of passing on risks can be combined in an algorithm to determine the absolute value reduction for a specific property to be appraised. Results should help appraisers, international investors and portfolio managers to deepen their understanding of valuation of risks associated with (previously) contaminated land. Santrauka Užterštoms teritorijoms atgaivinti būdinga didelė rizika ir netikrumas. Šio darbo tikslas – atskleisti rizikos suvokimą skatinančius veiksnius ir pristatyti originalų tikėtinos rizikos vertinimo metodą, kuris dėl ankstesnio naudojimo užterštas teritorijas leis įvertinti taikant skaidrią ir aiškią procedūrą. Apžvelgiami tarptautiniai būdai, leidžiantys atsižvelgti į vertės mažėjimą dėl taršos ir iš to kylantį netikrumą. Remiantis literatūros apžvalga ir nacionaline profesionalių vertintojų iš Vokietijos apklausa, sudaroma, pristatoma ir atvejo tyrime pritaikoma rizikos vertinimo metodika. Nustatėme, kad nuo taršos tinkamai išvalytų sklypų rinkos vertė vidutiniškai vis tiek esti 12,25 proc. mažesnė. Paėmus tokias vertes, kaip vieta, laikas ir galimybė perleisti riziką, galima sudaryti bendrą algoritmą, kuris leidžia nustatyti konkrečios vertinamos nuosavybės absoliutų vertės sumažėjimą. Rezultatai vertintojams, tarptautiniams investuotojams ir portfelio valdytojams turėtų padėti geriau suprasti teritorijų, kurios anksčiau buvo užterštos, rizikos vertinimą.
MUNICIPAL PROPERTY ASSET MANAGEMENT – A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF UK AND RUSSIA / SAVIVALDYBĖS TURTO VALDYMAS: LYGINAMASIS JK IR RUSIJOS TYRIMAS
Authors: Phelps Alan
Published: January 2012

Property asset management is a discipline of growing significance for local government across the world. The perceived wisdom of transition countries lagging behind developed countries in the maturity of asset managent has not been tested with empirical data. An analytical framework was developed comprising models to measure why councils do asset management (rationale); how they do it (practice) and what they achieve (outcomes) and applied through a comparative study of municipalities in the UK and Russia. A weak but discernable link was found between rationale and practice but the link between practice and outcomes was unproven. Russia appeared to lag UK in its development of asset management and case studies in both countries had a consistent view of the critical success factors for effective asset management. These were strategic focus, organisation will, portfolio intelligence and an entrepreneurial culture. The research used the strength of these factors with the analysis of rational, practice and outcomes to position cases in a typology which provided a simple metric to position organisations in terms of both their maturity and development path in asset management. Santrauka Visame pasaulyje turto valdymas įgyja vis didesnę svarbą vietos valdžiai. Paplitęs požiūris, kad besivystančios šalys pagal turto valdymo brandą nuo išsivysčiusių atsilieka, pagal empirinius duomenis patikrintas dar nebuvo. Siekiant įvertinti, kodėl ir kaip tarybos valdo turtą ir ką tuo pasiekia, iš modelių buvo sudaryta analitinė sistema ir pritaikyta atliekant lyginamąjį JK ir Rusijos savivaldybių tyrimą. Nustatytas silpnas, bet pastebimas ryšys tarp loginio pagrindo ir praktikos, tačiau ryšys tarp praktikos ir rezultatų įrodytas nebuvo. Paaiškėjo, kad Rusijoje turto valdymas pažengęs mažiau nei JK, o abiejų šalių atvejo tyrimai rodo vienodus svarbiausius sėkmės veiksnius, kurie lemia veiksmingą turto valdymą. Veiksniai apima koncentruotą strategiją, organizacijos valią, protingą portfelio sudarymą ir verslumo kultūrą. Atsižvelgiant į šių veiksnių reikšmę ir pasitelkus loginio pagrindo, praktikos ir rezultatų analizę, iš atvejų sudaryta tipologija, kuri panaudota kaip paprasta matų sistema, leidžianti organizacijas suskirstyti tiek pagal jų brandą, tiek pagal turto valdymo raidos kursą.
CONCEPTUALIZATION OF VISUAL REPRESENTATION IN URBAN PLANNING / VIZUALIOSIOS REPREZENTACIJOS MIESTO PLANAVIME KONCEPTUALIZAVIMAS
Authors: Paklone Ilze
Published: January 2012

This paper represents an examination of recent research in the fields of urban planning, visual artwork, visual image and text analysis, according to which the increasing importance of visual representation in modern society has altered the traditional understanding of visual representation in urban planning. Therefore it is a challenge for architects and urbanists to model and represent urban planning strategies visually to an ever-wider audience of experts and non-experts in urban planning. The focus of this paper is on the consolidation of various cross-disciplinary criteria and how to conceptualise visual representation in urban planning. Santrauka Straipsnyje nagrinėjami svarbūs miesto planavimui, vizualiajam menui, vizualiesiems atvaizdams ir teksto analizei skirti tyrimai. Remiantis šiais tyrimais, didėjanti vizualiosios reprezentacijos svarba moderniojoje visuomenėje keičia tos reprezentacijos naudojimą miesto planavime. Tai iššūkis architektams kaip vizualizacijų ekspertams, pristatant miesto planavimo strategijas plačiai tiek specialistų, tiek ir ne specialistų auditorijai. Šiame darbe dėmesys sutelkiamas ties kūrybingumu, apspręsto kriterijų, susijusių su vizualiosios reprezentacijos miesto planavime įsisąmoninimu.
Comment innover dans une organisation prisonnière de la tradition et de son succès et faisant face à un environnement réfractaire à la nouveauté ?
Authors: Celhay Franck , Cusin Julien
Published: January 2012

Résumé L’innovation constitue un moteur de la compétitivité et de la survie des entreprises dans un environnement en perpétuelle évolution. En pratique, toutefois, le processus conduisant à l’introduction d’une nouvelle idée s’avère délicat, car il est contraint par les décisions et les succès passés de l’entreprise. Pensons aux nombreuses organisations qui œuvrent dans des secteurs traditionnels, caractérisées par des valeurs fortes et distinctives solidement enracinées. Comment peuvent-elles innover et se moderniser tout en restant ancrées dans la tradition? Dans cet article, nous explorons cette question en étudiant les difficultés de l’innovation de produits dans le secteur des vins de Bordeaux. Après avoir présenté le contexte, nous montrons que les dérives stratégiques observées dans cette industrie sont dues non seulement à la force de la tradition et à ses succès passés, mais aussi à quatre types de freins liés aux consommateurs, aux producteurs, aux distributeurs et à l’appellation d’origine contrôlée Bordeaux.
La stratégie du Titanic : leçon tirée d'un échec d'une formation pour développer l'intrapreneuriat
Authors: Riot Elen
Published: January 2012

Résumé L’implantation d’une culture d’intrapreneuriat propice à l’innovation peut apparaître comme une bonne façon de sauver une entreprise en difficulté. Dans cette optique, des dirigeants peuvent investir pour offrir une formation à l’intrapreneuriat à leur personnel clé afin de l’inciter à faire preuve d’initiative. Toutefois, faute de temps et de moyens, les intrapreneurs en herbe peuvent alors être renvoyés à leurs palettes et tous les participants à la formation se retrouver seuls face à l’échec. À travers une étude de cas, l’article relate le contexte et le déroulement d’un programme de formation à l’intrapreneuriat qui a déçu les attentes en regard de la requalification d’un groupe de chercheurs de la R&D. Nous verrons qu’il importe de bien se soucier du contexte organisationnel et des raisons pour lesquelles une formation à l’intrapreneuriat est lancée.
Comment donner du sens à un « sale boulot » ?
Authors: Guerrero Sylvie , Maisy-Marengo Nadège
Published: January 2012

Résumé Cet article présente une définition élargie du concept de sale boulot pour montrer que tout individu peut potentiellement effectuer une tâche jugée sale lors de son travail. Que faire alors ? Comment un superviseur peut-il aider les membres de son équipe qui doivent exécuter ce type de tâches ? À l’aide de citations d’individus ayant vécu ou vivant l’expérience d’un sale boulot, l’article détaille les principales stratégies de normalisation qu’ils utilisent pour apprendre à lutter contre le stigmate de leur emploi. L’article présente aussi comment les gestionnaires, à travers les pratiques de socialisation et de gestion, peuvent faciliter le déploiement de telles stratégies de normalisation chez les employés qu’ils supervisent.
Caracterización de los canales de comercialización de limón ecológico malagueño
Authors: Natera Rivas Juan José
Published: January 2012

No disponible.
Timbered masonry for earthquake resistance in Europe
Authors: Dutu A. , Gomes Ferreira J. , Guerreiro L. , Branco F. , Gonçalves A. M.
Published: January 2012

Europe is a continent that is subject to significant seismic activity. Thus, the buildings’ seismic behaviour must be analysed, including not only the new structures, designed under more rigorous codes, but also older ones.
This article examines a traditional type of building that uses timber frame/masonry, which is found in Portugal, Turkey, France, England, Greece, Romania, Italy, Spain, Germany and Scandinavia. Although the structures differ in terms of construction details, their structural system is basically the same: the wooden structural system bears mainly the horizontal loads while the masonry supports the gravity loads.
The study includes a brief report on the seismicity of each country where this traditional type of building made of timbered framed masonry is found, together with the description of these buildings’ constructive systems.
The Impact of Supporting Organizational Knowledge Management through a Corporate Portal on Employees and Business Processes
Authors: Al-Busaidi Kamla Ali
Published: January 2012

Due to corporate portal playing a major role on organizational knowledge management (KM), this study was conducted to assess the impact of supporting KM processes through a corporate portal on business processes and employees at an academic institution. This paper specifically assesses the impact of knowledge acquisition, knowledge conversion, knowledge application and knowledge protection on business processes’ effectiveness, efficiency and innovation, and employees’ learning, adaptability, and job satisfaction. Findings suggest that the ending KM process, knowledge application, produces the highest impact on business processes and employees. First, supporting knowledge application through a corporate portal was positively associated with business processes’ effectiveness and innovation and employees’ learning, adaptability, and job satisfaction. Second, supporting knowledge conversion was positively associated with business processes’ effectiveness and employees’ learning, whereas supporting knowledge protection was positively associated with business processes’ effectiveness and efficiency but negatively associated with employees’ learning. Finally, supporting knowledge acquisition was positively associated with only business processes’ innovation.
Exploring the Extent and Impediments of Knowledge Sharing in Chinese Business Enterprise
Authors: Su Wen Bing , Li Xin , Chow Chee W.
Published: January 2012

This study explores the extent and impediments of knowledge sharing in Chinese firms because they are becoming dominant entities in the global economy, yet limited research exists on this important aspect of their operations. Survey data are obtained from experienced managers of 164 Chinese firms from a wide range of industries, sizes, and ownership types. The responses indicate that knowledge sharing is not open and complete in Chinese firms. Similar to findings from developed economies in the West, a large number of factors impede knowledge sharing in Chinese firms. These range from Chinese cultural values—which had been identified as being important by prior China-based studies—to attributes of the firm (e.g., incentive system, communication channels, organizational culture), as well as those of knowledge holders and potential recipients (e.g., judgment ability, organizational commitment). Implications of these findings for practice and research are discussed.
Towards a Method for Research Interviews using E-Mail
Authors: Petocz Peter , Gordon Sue , Reid Anna
Published: January 2012

Researching people’s ideas and experiences of Urban and Planning Studies can be carried out in a variety of ways, but the most obvious is to ask them. This can be done qualitatively, using semi-structured or unstructured interviews, at an early stage of the research process, when it is important to explore participants’ ideas prior to any quantitative investigation, or for investigations where in-depth and detailed information about individual thinking is important. Face-to-face interviews are a ‘gold standard’ against which other qualitative methods of investigation can be compared. However, contemporary developments in technology provide a wider range of opportunities for qualitative researchers to collect rich data for analysis. Such technologies enable participation from any part of the world at any time, and allow the collection of video material that can capture many aspects of verbal and non-verbal interaction for further analysis. The use of e-mail interviews provides a relatively low-tech methodology for investigations and has advantages over a live interview, on the one hand, and a high-tech video interview, on the other.
Video-Enhanced Self-Administered Computer Interviews
Authors: Gerich Joachim
Published: January 2012

In video-enhanced computer interviews, questions are presented by virtual interviewers by means of pre-recorded video sequences. To date, two strands of scientific interest in video-enhanced data collection are identifiable. On the one hand, video-enhanced data collection is employed for interviewing respondents with special needs (especially deaf respondents) and young respondents. On the other hand, research is focused on the impact on data quality. Following previous results on enhanced data quality with audio-enhanced computer interviews, video-enhanced surveys are seen as a logical extension. In this chapter, previous research on both strands of applications of video-enhanced computer interviews is summarized to gain insight into preliminary evidence about the impact of these methods.
The use of Electronic Brainstorming for Collecting Ideas in Scientific Research Teams
Authors: Michinov Nicolas
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this chapter is to present an under-used technique for collecting ideas in scientific research teams, namely electronic brainstorming. This technique employs networked computer terminals and software designed to allow group members to communicate electronically during idea-generation tasks. A large number of studies have demonstrated that electronic brainstorming is a useful non-verbal technique for improving the efficacy of e-collaboration, but there are very few situations in which this technique has been used to collect ideas in scientific research teams. Writing articles, reports, white papers, and other scientific documents requires good ideas that can be generated through effective brainstorming. Brainstorming is also recognized as a problem-solving technique which can help researchers find solutions to complex problems by listing their potential causes. Although it is a simple technique that can gather ideas from a group of individuals rapidly by letting them express their ideas freely, it has not been widely used to collect ideas for complex research projects involving researchers working together or in geographically dispersed teams. After reviewing the literature in the field of (electronic) brainstorming, the challenges and opportunities for extending this technique to online research by scientific teams are discussed.