bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immediate-Release Nifedipine Binary Dry Powder Mixtures with Nanocellulose Featuring Enhanced Solubility and Dissolution Rate
Authors: Mantas Athanasios , Mihranyan Albert
Published: January 2019

Nifedipine (NIF) is a 1,4-dihydropyridine-based calcium channel blocker with poor solubility, whose bioavailability is highly dependent on the type of formulation. Dry powder mixtures of 20% w/w NIF with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and its high surface area nanocellulose analogue, which is namely Cladophora (CLAD) cellulose, were produced by heating at the melting temperature of the drug for 1 h. Non-heated samples were used as a reference. The solid-state properties of the mixtures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffraction. The drug release was studied in biorelevant media, including simulated gastric fluid (SGF), fasted-state simulated intestinal fluid (FaSIF) and fed-state simulated intestinal fluid (FeSIF). An enhanced apparent solubility and faster dissolution rate of NIF were observed in the heated mixture of NIF with CLAD-H in all tested biorelevant media (i.e., SGF, FaSIF and FeSIF), which was due to NIF amorphization in the high surface area nanocellulose powder. Ordinary MCC, which is essentially non-porous, did not produce an enhancement of a similar magnitude. The results of the study suggest that dry powder formulation using high surface area nanocellulose is a facile new strategy for formulating calcium channel blocker drugs, which could potentially be a viable alternative to currently used soft gel liquid capsules.
Mechanical and Water-Resistant Properties of Eco-Friendly Chitosan Membrane Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Mao Haiquan , Wei Chun , Gong Yongyang , Wang Shiqi , Ding Wenwen
Published: January 2019

Environmentally benign and biodegradable chitosan (CS) membranes have disadvantages such as low mechanical strength, high brittleness, poor heat resistance and poor water resistance, which limit their applications. In this paper, home-made cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were added to CS to prepare CNC/CS composite membranes through mechanical mixing and solution casting approaches. The effects of CNC dispersion patterns and CNC contents on the properties of composite membranes were studied. The analysis of the surface and cross-section morphology of the membranes showed that the dispersion performance of the composite membrane was better in the case that CNC was dissolved in an acetic acid solution and then mixed with chitosan by a homogenizer (Method 2). CNC had a great length-diameter ratio and CNC intensely interacted with CS. The mechanical properties of the composite membrane prepared with Method 2 were better. With a CNC content of 3%, the tensile strength of the composite membrane reached 43.0 MPa, 13.2% higher than that of the CNC-free membrane. The elongation at break was 41.6%, 56.4% higher than that of the CNC-free membrane. Thermogravimetric, contact angle and swelling analysis results showed that the addition of CNC could improve the heat and water resistance of the chitosan membrane.
Preparation of a Water-Based Photoreactive Azosulphonate-Doped Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) and the Investigation of Its UV Response
Authors: Nothdurft Philipp , Schauberger Jörg Guido , Riess Gisbert , Kern Wolfgang
Published: January 2019

Two different azosulphonate dyes were synthesised and purified for the preparation of a water-based photoreactive azosulphonate-doped poly(vinyl alcohol). The aim was the investigation of a novel azosulphonate-poly(vinyl alcohol) photoresist with decreased water solubility after illumination, setting a focus on environmentally benign substances. The electron distribution of the aromatic rings of the two different azosulphonate molecules were changed by the UV-induced cleavage of the –N=N–SO3− groups, which was evidenced by UV spectroscopy. The formation of ester groups was detected by Fourier-transform infrared and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. UV–Vis spectroscopy was used to investigate the photoreactivity of the prepared films. Photolithographic experiments demonstrated the applicability of these newly produced materials as photoresist materials. In addition, these materials provide high thermal stability.
Controllable Crimpness of Animal Hairs via Water-Stimulated Shape Fixation for Regulation of Thermal Insulation
Authors: Xiao Xueliang , Gu Yanjia , Wu Guanzheng , Zhang Diantang , Ke Huizhen
Published: January 2019

Animals living in extremely cold plateau areas have shown amazing ability to maintain their bodies warmth, a benefit of their hair’s unique structures and crimps. Investigation of hair crimps using a water-stimulated shape fixation effect would control the hair’s crimpness with a specific wetting-drying process thereafter, in order to achieve the regulation of hair thermal insulation. The mechanism of hair’s temporary shape fixation was revealed through FTIR and XRD characterizations for switching on and off the hydrogen bonds between macromolecules via penetration into and removal of aqueous molecules. The thermal insulation of hairs was regulated by managing the hair temporary crimps, that is, through managing the multiple reflectance of infrared light by hair hierarchical crimps from hair root to head.
Employment of Emergency Advanced Nurses of Turkey: A Discrete-Event Simulation Application
Authors: Atalan Abdulkadir , Donmez Cem Cagri
Published: January 2019

In the present study, problems in emergency services (ESs) were dealt with by analyzing the working system of ESs in Turkey. The purpose of this study was to reduce the waiting times spent in hospitals by employing advanced nurses (ANs) to treat patients who are not urgent, or who may be treated as outpatients in ESs. By applying discrete-event simulation on a 1/24 (daily) and 7/24 (weekly) basis, and by employing ANs, it was determined that the number of patients that were treated increased by 26.71% on a 1/24 basis, and by 15.13% on a 7/24 basis. The waiting time that was spent from the admission to the ES until the treatment time decreased by 38.67% on a 1/24 basis and 53.66% on a 24/7 basis. Similarly, the length of stay was reduced from 82.46 min to 53.97 min in the ES. Among the findings, it was observed that the efficiency rate of the resources was balanced by the employment of ANs, although it was not possible to obtain sufficient efficiency from the resources used in the ESs prior to the present study.
Correction: Beltrán, W. M. et al. Pentecostals, Gender Ideology and the Peace Plebiscite: Colombia 2016. Religions 9 (2018): 418
Authors: Beltrán William Mauricio , Creely Sian
Published: January 2019

The authors wish to make the following corrections to (Beltrán and Creely 2018) [...]
Past and Future Trajectories of Farmland Loss Due to Rapid Urbanization Using Landsat Imagery and the Markov-CA Model: A Case Study of Delhi, India
Authors: Tang Junmei , Di Liping
Published: January 2019

This study integrated multi-temporal Landsat images, the Markov-Cellular Automation (CA) model, and socioeconomic factors to analyze the historical and future farmland loss in the Delhi metropolitan area, one of the most rapidly urbanized areas in the world. Accordingly, the major objectives of this study were: (1) to classify the land use and land cover (LULC) map using multi-temporal Landsat images from 1994 to 2014; (2) to develop and calibrate the Markov-CA model based on the Markov transition probabilities of LULC classes, the CA diffusion factor, and other ancillary factors; and (3) to analyze and compare the past loss of farmland and predict the future loss of farmland in relation to rapid urban expansion from the year 1995 to 2030. The predicted results indicated the high accuracy of the Markov-CA model, with an overall accuracy of 0.75 and Kappa value of 0.59. The predicted results showed that urban expansion is likely to continue to the year of 2030, though the rate of increase will slow down from the year 2020. The area of farmland has decreased and will continue to decrease at a relatively stable rate. The Markov-CA model provided a better understanding of the past, current, and future trends of LULC change, with farmland loss being a typical change in this region. The predicted result will help planners to develop suitable government policies to guide sustainable urban development in Delhi, India.
Physiological Responses of Continuous and Intermittent Swimming at Critical Speed and Maximum Lactate Steady State in Children and Adolescent Swimmers
Authors: Nikitakis Ioannis S. , Paradisis Giorgos P. , Bogdanis Gregory C. , Toubekis Argyris G.
Published: January 2019

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare physiological responses during continuous and intermittent swimming at intensity corresponding to critical speed (CS: slope of the distance vs. time relationship using 200 and 400-m tests) with maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) in children and adolescents. Methods: CS and the speed corresponding to MLSS (sMLSS) were calculated in ten male children (11.5 ± 0.4 years) and ten adolescents (15.8 ± 0.7 years). Blood lactate concentration (BL), oxygen uptake ( V · O2), and heart rate (HR) at sMLSS were compared to intermittent (10 × 200-m) and continuous swimming corresponding to CS. Results: CS was similar to sMLSS in children (1.092 ± 0.071 vs. 1.083 ± 0.065 m·s−1; p = 0.12) and adolescents (1.315 ± 0.068 vs. 1.297 ± 0.056 m·s−1; p = 0.12). However, not all swimmers were able to complete 30 min at CS and BL was higher at the end of continuous swimming at CS compared to sMLSS (children: CS: 4.0 ± 1.8, sMLSS: 3.4 ± 1.5; adolescents: CS: 4.5 ± 2.3, sMLSS: 3.1 ± 0.8 mmol·L−1; p < 0.05). V · O2 and HR in continuous swimming at CS were not different compared to sMLSS (p > 0.05). BL, V · O2 and HR in 10 × 200-m were similar to sMLSS and no different between groups. Conclusion: Intermittent swimming at CS presents physiological responses similar to sMLSS. Metabolic responses of continuous swimming at CS may not correspond to MLSS in some children and adolescent swimmers.
Policy Hotspots for Sustainability: Changes in the EU Regulation of Sustainable Business and Finance
Authors: Ahlström Hanna
Published: January 2019

To ensure sustainable development, there is not only a need to re-think how the economic playing field is structured, but also the regulatory system that governs it. Business and finance law reforms will represent a crucial element of such a transition. However, little progress has been made to date. The European Union (EU) business and financial market law have been analysed systematically in relation to sustainability to a limited extent. This study aims to contribute to this gap through a reflexive governance analysis of corporate financialisation in the EU business and financial market law. I identify ‘policy hotspots’ with the potential to advance the EU’s commitment to sustainable development. I use a mixed-methods approach consisting of social network analysis and semi-structured interviews. This approach allows me to perform a structural analysis of the formal institutional processes, complemented by a qualitative analysis that unpacks the potential of the identified policy hotspots. I argue that the EU’s action has a path dependency created by two major policy approaches that have informed the EU business and financial market law. These approaches build on the shareholder maximisation norm and an action agenda on non-binding measures. This has contributed to internalising the corporate financialisation processes in EU policy-making and seems to limit the EU’s ability to create sustainable legislation. While these approaches may represent barriers, the findings show that the identified policy hotspots represent two tentative pathways of action for achieving sustainable business and finance in the EU: the Sustainable Finance initiative and the Single Market.
On the Substitutability between Paid-employment and Self-employment: Evidence from the Period 1969–2014 in the United States
Authors: Congregado Emilio , Golpe Antonio A. , Esteve Vicente
Published: January 2019

This paper provides estimates of the elasticity of substitution between operational and managerial jobs in the US economy during the years 1969–2014, derived from an aggregate CES production function. Estimating the long-term relationship between (the log of) the aggregate employment/self-employment ratio and (the log of) the returns from paid-employment relative to self-employment and testing for structural breaks, we report different estimates of the elasticity of substitution in each of the two regimes identified. To this end we apply the methodology on instability tests proposed in Kejriwal and Perron (2008, 2010) as well as the cointegration tests developed in Arai and Kurozumi (2007) and Kejriwal (2008). Our results help to understand and interpret one of the most intriguing aspects in the evolution of self-employment rates in developed countries: the reversal of the trend in self-employment rates. Our estimates show that a higher level of development is associated with a greater number of entrepreneurs and smaller firms. Some rationales for understanding the growth of the elasticity between paid-employment and self-employment, including the recent trends in the digital economy, are also suggested.
How Does CSR Activity Affect Sustainable Growth and Value of Corporations? Evidence from Korea
Authors: Lee Kyungtag , Lee Hyunchul
Published: January 2019

This study explores the relationship between Korean listed companies’ corporation social responsibility (CSR) activities and their sustainable growth and valuation, focusing specifically on the nonlinear aspect. The nonlinear quantile regressions used in this study reported that CSR activities increased corporation value exclusively in the middle-range groups (i.e., τ_25, τ_50, τ_75) of Tobin’s q, a proxy for corporation growth and value. However, the linear ordinary least squares (OLS) regression did not indicate similar results. Our findings also showed that CSR activities affect the valuation of Korean listed corporations in a nonlinear, rather than in a linear way. Considering that most prior studies are devoted to reporting linear results from classical ordinary least squares estimations between CSR activities and corporation value, our study fills the gap in the literature. The findings of this study may provide corporation managers and researchers with valuable data concerning a corporation’s optimal investment point for their CSR activities for sustainable growth and the maximization of corporation value.
Residual Biomass from Dutch Riverine Areas—From Waste to Ecosystem Service
Authors: Bout Astrid E. , Pfau Swinda F. , van der Krabben Erwin , Dankbaar Ben
Published: January 2019

Dutch riverine areas are managed intensively to ensure the provision of various ecosystem services. Vegetation management, including pruning and mowing, produces a woody and grassy biomass as a by-product. In the past, this residual biomass has been treated as a waste product. Now there is a change of perspective; biomass is valued as a potential additional ecosystem service instead of a waste product. In this study, we explore the transition from waste to ecosystem service of residual biomass in Dutch water management organisations. We found several trends in the organisation of biomass use. There is a development away from the traditional approach of choosing the cheapest or easiest way to get rid of biomass towards exploring various uses of biomass that fulfil additional, societally relevant, functions. This trend alters the organisation of vegetation management and subsequent biomass use. Selection based on sustainable biomass uses is gaining importance, and there is a growing desire within public organisations to be able to steer towards sustainable use of residual biomass. However, there is a lack of applicable, objective ranking instruments.
Editorial of Special Issue “Information Technology and Its Applications”
Authors: Lu Tzu Chuen
Published: January 2019

This book contains the successful invited submissions [...]
Use of Geospatial Surveillance and Response Systems for Vector-Borne Diseases in the Elimination Phase
Authors: Malone John B. , Bergquist Robert , Martins Moara , Luvall Jeffrey C.
Published: January 2019

The distribution of diseases caused by vector-borne viruses and parasites are restricted by the environmental requirements of their vectors, but also by the ambient temperature inside the host as it influences the speed of maturation of the infectious agent transferred. The launch of the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite in 2015, and the new ECOSTRESS instrument onboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2018, established the leadership of the National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) in ecology and climate research by allowing the structural and functional classification of ecosystems that govern vector sustainability. These advances, and the availability of sub-meter resolution data from commercial satellites, contribute to seamless mapping and modelling of diseases, not only at continental scales (1 km2) and local community or agricultural field scales (15–30 m2), but for the first time, also at the habitat–household scale (<1 m2). This communication presents current capabilities that are related to data collection by Earth-observing satellites, and draws attention to the usefulness of geographical information systems (GIS) and modelling for the study of important parasitic diseases.
Detection and Characterization of Cucumis melo Cryptic Virus, Cucumis melo Amalgavirus 1, and Melon Necrotic Spot Virus in Cucumis melo
Authors: Zhan Binhui , Cao Mengji , Wang Kaina , Wang Xifeng , Zhou Xueping
Published: January 2019

Three RNA viruses—Cucumis melo cryptic virus (CmCV), Cucumis melo amalgavirus 1 (CmAV1), and melon necrotic spot virus (MNSV)—were identified from a melon (Cucumis melo) transcriptome dataset. CmCV has two dsRNA genome segments; dsRNA-1 is 1592 bp in size, containing a conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), and dsRNA-2 is 1715 bp in size, and encodes a coat protein (CP). The sequence alignment and phylogenetic analyses of the CmCV RdRp and CP indicated CmCV clusters with approved or putative deltapartitiviruses in well-supported monophyletic clade. The RdRp of CmCV shared an amino acid sequence identity of 60.7% with the closest RdRp of beet cryptic virus 3, and is <57% identical to other partitiviruses. CmAV1 is a nonsegmented dsRNA virus with a genome of 3424 bp, including two partially overlapping open reading frames (ORFs) encoding a putative CP and RdRp. The sequence alignment and phylogenetic analyses of CmAV1 RdRp revealed that it belongs to the genus Amalgavirus in the family Amalgaviridae. The RdRp of CmAV1 shares 57.7% of its amino acid sequence identity with the most closely related RdRp of Phalaenopsis equestris amalgavirus 1, and is <47% identical to the other reported amalgaviruses. These analyses suggest that CmCV and CmAV1 are novel species in the genera Amalgavirus and Deltapartitivirus, respectively. These findings enrich our understanding of new plant dsRNA virus species.
Temporal Variation and Reduction Strategy of Nutrient Loads from an Urban River Catchment into a Eutrophic Lake, China
Authors: Qin Chengxin , Li Zhiyi , Xie Pengcheng , Hao Qianting , Tang Xuejun , Wu Yihui , Du Pengfei
Published: January 2019

Excessive nutrient input from urban areas increases the occurrence of eutrophication. Control of nutrient loads is perceived as the primary restoration method. Quantifying temporal variation of nutrient loads is essential to understand the dynamic relationships of nutrient source-impacts in the urban water system and investigate the operational efficiency of treatment facilities for eutrophication control. Here, a holistic approach was developed to estimate nutrient loads from different sources and evaluate nutrient impacts on the urban water environment. An integrated catchment model of nutrient loads was built and applied to calculate river nutrient loads from untreated rainfall runoff, untreated sewage, and treated recharge into the eutrophic Dianchi Lake from an urban river catchment with limited infrastructure. Nutrient impacts on the lake were evaluated and a load reduction strategy was given a hint to reduce nutrient impacts of urban rivers. During the study period 2014–2016, nutrient loads from the urban river generally decreased except during heavy winter rainfall events and high-intensity pollution events associated with rainfall runoff. The average contribution of annual nutrient loads to the lake capacity indicated the underestimation of nutrient impacts of urban rivers. This approach provides new insights into urban water management and underscores the importance of sewage infrastructure.
Silanediol versus chlorosilanol: hydrolyses and hydrogen-bonding catalyses with fenchole-based silanes
Authors: Fox Falco , Neudörfl Jörg M , Goldfuss Bernd
Published: January 2019

Biphenyl-2,2’-bisfenchyloxydichlorosilane (7, BIFOXSiCl2) is synthesized and employed as precursor for the new silanols biphenyl-2,2’-bisfenchyloxychlorosilanol (8, BIFOXSiCl(OH)) and biphenyl-2,2’-bisfenchyloxysilanediol (9, BIFOXSi(OH)2). BIFOXSiCl2 (7) shows a remarkable stability against hydrolysis, yielding silanediol 9 under enforced conditions. A kinetic study for the hydrolysis of dichlorosilane 7 shows a 263 times slower reaction compared to reference bis-(2,4,6-tri-tert-butylphenoxy)dichlorosilane (14), known for its low hydrolytic reactivity. Computational analyses explain the slow hydrolyses of BIFOXSiCl2 (7) to BIFOXSiCl(OH) (8, Ea = 32.6 kcal mol−1) and BIFOXSiCl(OH) (8) to BIFOXSi(OH)2 (9, Ea = 31.4 kcal mol−1) with high activation barriers, enforced by endo fenchone units. Crystal structure analyses of silanediol 9 with acetone show shorter hydrogen bonds between the Si–OH groups and the oxygen of the bound acetone (OH···O 1.88(3)–2.05(2) Å) than with chlorosilanol 8 (OH···2.16(0) Å). Due to its two hydroxy units, the silanediol 9 shows higher catalytic activity as hydrogen bond donor than chlorosilanol 8, e.g., C–C coupling N-acyl Mannich reaction of silyl ketene acetals 11 with N-acylisoquinolinium ions (up to 85% yield and 12% ee), reaction of 1-chloroisochroman (18) and silyl ketene acetals 11 (up to 85% yield and 5% ee), reaction of chromen-4-one (20) and silyl ketene acetals 11 (up to 98% yield and 4% ee).
SMOOTH TRAFFIC FLOW AS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTORS FOR SAFETY INCREASE IN ROAD TRANSPORT
Authors: Kalašová Alica , Stacho Milan
Published: January 2019

The elimination of the connection between the increase of transport and economical growth has been the main aim of transport policy of the EU for a few years, which has not been accomplished yet. The volume of transport in the EU has been growing at more or less the same rate as economy or more, by nearly 20 % with passenger transport and by approximately 30 % with freight transport haulage. Transportation causes considerable external costs that although have got concrete originators, are not paid by them. The biggest external costs are connected with emissions, noise, accidents and congestions. In our contribution we would like to characterize congestions and possible solutions.
DETERMINATION AND EVALUATION OF THE FACTORS OF OUTSOURCING LOGISTICS
Authors: Jarzemskis Andrius
Published: January 2019

This paper focuses on the determination and evaluation of the factors of logistic outsourcing. Many authors usually talk about logistics service outsourcing and its reasons and benefits as well, but if some functions of the service are not outsourced, we can not really entitle “outsourcing” as the whole service providing. In logistics activity if one or several functions are outsourced it is not always possible to entitle “logistics outsourcing”. In this paper outsourcing logistics criteria are described. The results of the survey among traders in Lithuania of outsourcing logistics are presented as well.
LOGISTICS CENTERS LOCATION
Authors: Klapita Vladimír , Švecová Zuzana
Published: January 2019

It is fairly questionable to estimate future costs in the problems of strategic decision. The uncertainty may cause a resulting solution to be very inefficient considering current costs. In this report we try to find an approach which enables to determine a unique solution of a location problem at uncertain costs so that the solution is resistant to future changes. We deal with a sensitivity analysis and with a connection of an exact mathematical programming method and the theory of fuzzy sets.
THE ANALYSIS OF ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT FINANCING IN LITHUANIA
Authors: Lingaitiene Olga
Published: January 2019

The article describes major problems associated with the development of the Lithuanian roads, the priority areas and distribution of investments. The analysis performed and the calculations of investments into roads made for the last two years and the current year as well as graphical expression of the dynamics are presented and the conclusions are given.
THE EFFECT OF FUEL ADDITIVE SO‐2E ON DIESEL ENGINE PERFORMANCE WHEN OPERATING ON DIESEL FUEL AND SHALE OIL
Authors: Labeckas Gvidonas , Pauliukas Arvydas , Slavinskas Stasys
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this research is to perform comparative analysis of the effect of fuel additive SO‐2E on the economical and ecological parameters of a direct‐injection Diesel engine, operating on Diesel fuel and shale oil alternately. It was proved that multifunctional fuel additive SO‐2E applied in proportion 0,2 vol % is more effective for improving combustion of shale oil than Diesel fuel. At light operation range the treated shale oil savings based upon fuel energy content throughout wide speed range 1400–2000 min−1 reduce from 14,6–12,3MJ/kWh to 11,6–11,8 MJ/kWh or by 20,5–4,1 %. Maximum NO emission for treated Diesel fuel was reduced by 7,8–11,8 %, whereas NO2 simultaneously increased by 3,8–7,4 %. In the case of treated shale oil both harmful pollutants were reduced by 22,9–28,6 % and by 41,6–13,4 %, respectively. The exhaust gas opacity and CO emissions at the rated performance regime for both fuels were obtained a bit higher, whereas HC emission for treated shale oil increases 1,9 times and for Diesel fuel remains on the same level.
QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF APPLICANTS TO TRANSPORT ENGINEERING COURSES OF STUDY
Authors: Kliukas Romualdas , Prentkovskis Olegas , Daniūnas Alfonsas
Published: January 2019

The problems of selecting applicants to the Lithuanian universities and the level of knowledge of the applicants to transport engineering specialities will be discussed in this paper. A brief analysis of courses of studies in transport engineering at the Lithuanian univitersities is presented. Some statistical data reflecting the results of joint applicants admission to the Lithuanian higher schools are presented. The selection of applicants to study transport engineering courses at the Lithuanian universities is analyzed.
A MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR EVALUATING ACCELERATED WEAR DUE TO INEFFICIENT MAINTENANCE
Authors: Oke Sunday Ayoola , Bamigbaiye Ayokunle , Oyedokun Oluwafemi Isaac
Published: January 2019

This paper examines accelerated wear due to inefficient maintenance practice in the engineering organization, with a special focus on plant machinery. It considers some important parameters, mathematical relations and how to reduce the effect of poor maintenance practices on plant machinery. Mathematical tools of calculus, series, statistics, and variation were utilized in the development of the model. The result shows that poor maintenance practices increase accelerated wear in plant machinery while good maintenance is aided by planned maintenance, well‐stocked inventory of spare parts, good production procedures, extended plant life, etc. This work is limited in scope since it considers a limited number of parameters as measures of wear. The paper is valuable to the maintenance manager and practitioners who intend to produce/manufacture and at the same time minimize the accelerated wear in production machinery by close monitoring, and using the model as a tool. The work is of immense benefits to managers in process industries, particularly in oil and gas exploration activities. The work is new, presenting a simple approach for easy adaptation in the industry. The approach utilized is not yet documented in the maintenance engineering literature. Thus, a new area of research is opened up for research explorations for the members of the maintenance engineering community
DETERMINATION OF EXTREME TRAIN RUNNING PARAMETERS ALONG A RAILWAY LINE SEGMENT
Authors: Jonaitis Jonas
Published: January 2019

It is possible to select train‐car draft mass and traction vehicle parameters for technical speed νt along segment sk in such a way that unitary total energy consumption related to train‐car mass would be the lowest. Such running is called extreme running while traction vehicle parameters and train‐car mass are called optimal from the point of view of energy consumption. The optimization of traction vehicle parameters is possible if a mathematical traction vehicle model is added to the running program and then vehicle parameters are made variable and added to motion parameters as subsequent decision variables within train running program. Together with the train motion parameters optimization traction vehicle parameters should be optimized according to the criterion of unitary total energy consumption related to train‐car mass. Traction vehicle optimal parameters depend on train technical speed, length and profile of segment , as well as, on train‐car mass.
MAINTENANCE COSTS OF ROAD PAVEMENT AND MOTOR VEHICLES ON THE ROUTE VILNIUS – KAUNAS – KLAIPEDA
Authors: Miškinis Dainius , Lingaitis Vytautas
Published: January 2019

The article describes the impact of axle loads of vehicles on the road pavement. Pavement deterioration intensity and the charge imposed on vehicles the axle load of which exceeds the set norm are analyzed on the road under investigation according to the results of weighing axle loads of vehicles as well as appropriate calculation methodologies. The work presents regressive equations according to which maintenance costs of vehicles can be predicted taking the condition of pavement into consideration.
DEVELOPMENT OF INTERMODAL TRANSPORT IN NEW EUROPEAN UNION STATES
Authors: Šakalys Algirdas , Palšaitis Ramūnas
Published: January 2019

The article presents the main outcomes of the NAS‐ITIP project (FRAMEWORK'5) on the situation of intermodal transport in new European Union states. The main measures for the development of intermodal transport in these countries are highlighted: modernisation and development of intermodal infrastructure; innovative technologies; establishment of modern logistics centres. Recommendations to EC and national governmental institutions for the development of intermodality are proposed.
SYNTHESIS OF THE TOPOLOGICAL STRUCTURE OF ROOD FREIGHT TRANSPORT SYSTEM
Authors: Baublys Adolfas , Išoraite Margarita
Published: January 2019

Synthesis of regional road transport freight system's topological structure enables the assessment of impact exercised by various structural characteristics on the functioning of the system. Consequently, it should increase the quality of project solutions in the stage of system structural synthesis.

Models of optimization and simulation (included into the simulation procedure of optimization of topological structure) have other possibilities as well. For instance, simulation model enables the solution of various objectives of functional analysis of systems, such as the efficiency comparison analysis of stability of structure undergoing the changes of meanings of system's parameters, the analysis of managing impacts of various types, loading technologies, etc.
LABORATORY INVESTIGATION OF TYRE SLIDING GRIP COEFFICIENT
Authors: Ivanov Rosen , Rusev Rusi , Ilchev Plamen
Published: January 2019

The paper presents the results of a laboratory investigation on the variation of the tyre sliding grip coefficient depending on the tyre construction, the air pressure, the vertical load and the wheel camber. Eight different models of tyres are tested. A significant reduction of the tyre sliding grip coefficient on a hard ground was registered, when the tyre pressure is low and the wheel camber is bigger. The analysis of results and explanation of causes are done.
METHODS FOR OPTIMIZATION OF ROTATIONAL LATENCY OF THE INVERSE LOADING OF TRUCKS ON INTERNATIONAL ROUTES
Authors: Azemsha Sergey
Published: January 2019

The increase of the efficiency of international car transportation of cargoes is an actual problem. For the solution to delivery problems at present the information systems on the basis of INTERNET‐technology are created, containing information on cargo transportation and available free car transport facilities. This allows somewhat to solve a problem of loading a transport facility in an inverse direction. Thus, there is a task of the acceptance of an optimum decision concerning return loading. In this article the technique is presented, allowing to determine the waiting time of return loading of the vehicle working in any direction at which economic benefit of the performed job will be maximal.
CLASSIFICATION AND CODING: APPROACH OF DIFFERENT INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Authors: Hunt Ülo , Koppel Ott
Published: January 2019

Transportation plays a significant role in the world. This paper deals with harmonization of classification and coding systems, which is of fundamental importance in everyday freight handling practice.
CALIBRATION OF VILNIUS PUBLIC TRANSPORT MODEL
Authors: Ušpalyte-Vitkūniene Rasa , Burinskiene Marija , Grigonis Vytautas
Published: January 2019

The application of information technologies preconditions the optimisation of performance of transport systems: improvement of the performance quality, safety and efficiency of the overall system, increase in capacity, reduction of the trip duration without high financial investment into construction of the new technical infrastructure. The transport modelling is the only economical and sufficiently reliable way to carry out a forward assessment of the impact of the innovations to be applied on the overall system. The network of Vilnius public transport was built up on the data of 2002, and the year 2002 saw the last comprehensive surveys. Building up the PT network the data was taken from the VIDAS database, created in 2002 while drafting the special plan for Vilnius transport infrastructure (tram) development. The morning rush hour, when the passenger flows are maximum, was chosen for the modelling. Calibration of Vilnius PT network was carried out after selection of three possible methods: TSys‐based, Headway‐based and Timetable‐based. In the timetable‐based model Logit, Kirchhoff, BoxCox and Lochse distribution factors are inter‐changed. Analysis of all coefficients received when modelling allows a conclusion that further modelling of the development of Vilnius public transport network should be based on Timetable‐based model choosing Kirchhoff or BocCox distribution laws, whereof conformity to the basic averages of coefficients of the 2002 survey is respectively 0,82 and 0,81. This would facilitate adopting solutions to the development of the public transport systems and would increase their reliability. The calculated coefficients revealed that TSys‐based methods were mostly removed from reality, and the average coefficient of failure to conform to the data of the 2002 survey is 0,24. This method did not give any data about the load on the stops, although the number of trips modelled with the help of this method was most proximate to the survey data, i.e. 0,69 %.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: PROVIDING A DECREASING CONNECTION PROBABILITY MODEL FOR URBAN STREET NETWORK
Authors: Ziari Hasan , Behbahani Hamid , Khabiri Mohammed M.
Published: January 2019

We apologise for the presented paper considered as a typical example of PLAGIARISM.
The earlier published initial original references:
• B. Jiang, C. Claramunt. 2004. A structural approach to the model generalization of an urban street network, GeoInformatica 8 (2): 157-171.
• B. Jiang, C. Claramunt. 2002. A structural approach to model generalisation of an urban street network, in 5th AGILE Conference on Geographic Information Science, Palma (Mallorca, Spain) April 25th-27th 2002, 1–10.
• G. Forbes. 2000. Urban roadway classification before the design begins, in Transportation Research E-Circular, Number E-C019.
are not cited in the paper produced by H. Ziari, H. Behbahani and M. M. Khabiri.
The Editorial Board of the Journal TRANSPORT and the Publishing House TECHNIKA have retracted the presented paper. The Editorial Board of the Journal TRANSPORT is AGAINST PLAGIARISM.
Yours faithfully, on behalf of the Editorial Board of the Journal TRANSPORT, Editor-in-Chief, Prof. Adolfas Baublys.
THE MODEL OF HARMFUL EJECTIONS DISSEMINATION OF THE TRANSPORT FLOWS MADE ON THE BASIS OF THE CALCULATION OF THE TURBULENT DIFFUSION EQUATION
Authors: Komarov Jury , Fedotov Vitali
Published: January 2019

Toxic gases and fine dispersive particles are pumped out into the atmosphere from a transport flow. The particles sizing less than 10,0 micro metres (PM10–2,5) remain in the suspension for a long time due to the thermal stream and the Brownian motion; as for the surface of the layer which is between the gas molecules and solid particles ‐ it doesn't exist. This fact allows us to study the mixture of the toxic gases and solid particles as if it is a mixture of physically homogeneous particles, and the model of their spreading can be pretended as a dissemination of a phase component in the thermodynamic system according to the diffusion laws. In this paper we refer to the calculation of the parameters of the model of the toxic ejections dissemination in the ecologically unsafe part of the main transport line. The calculation was based on the equation of the turbulent diffusion. The results of the research are intended to control the movement of the traffic on the urban mains according to ecological requirements, creating the industrial technology of refining atmospheric air of urban mains.
ELECTRIC DRIVES OF TRACTION ROLLING STOCKS WITH AC MOTORS
Authors: Lingaitis Leonas Povilas , Liudvinavičius Lionginas
Published: January 2019

The paper considers the variation of circuit design of the electric drives in traction rolling stocks when traditional DC electric machines are replaced with AC electric machines. Simplified circuit diagrams of the electric drives using electric machines of non‐commutator type are offered. Operational defects of DC traction engines are weighed against some positive characteristics of direct current series excitation in traction engines, determining their extensive use in the electric drives of traction rolling stocks. However, the rapid development of semiconductor devices, e.g. thyristors and IGBT transistors, led to the creation of a great variety of semiconductor inverters. This made it possible to develop an autonomous three‐phase power supply system for diesel locomotives and algorithms for the AC traction motors and to obtain engine characteristics matching the tractive force by using voltage frequency and current inverters. A mathematical justification of the engine torque and tractive force control as well as its particular characteristics is provided. The graphs demonstrating the particular ways of changing the electrical parameters of an asynchronous motor with a squirrel‐cage rotor are also presented.
MODELLING OF COLLISIONS OF THE AUTOMOBILES
Authors: Sokolovskij Edgar , Mikaliūnas Šarūnas
Published: January 2019

The graphic analytical modelling and the computer modelling of collisions of the automobiles are compared in this article. The examples of modelling of collisions of the automobiles are given. The computer modelling of collision of the automobiles with the help of the program PC CRASH is introduced. The possibilities and advantages of this computer program, the inserted parameters and their optimization are investigated. The possibilities of applying the computer modelling program in the experts’ examination of traffic accidents while modelling collisions of the automobiles, the items and requirements raised towards the experts, who work with such programs, on reliability of the obtained results are considered.
EQUIVALENT MECHANICAL PARAMETERS OF OSCILLATING ROTARY MOTORS USED IN TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT
Authors: Andziulis Arūnas , Vaupšas Jonas , Guseinovienė Eleonora , Didžiokas Rimantas , Adomaitis Danielius
Published: January 2019

In various appliances and equipment of sundry transport means there is a lot of diverse mechanisms of periodical movement. So, the various piston or membrane pumps of fuel feeding and lubrication systems, circulation pumps, air and refrigerating coolant compressors, etc. are the typical examples of innovative and well promising application of the oscillating motors. In these cases the moving part of a motor can be directly connected to the working body of driven mechanism without the additional gears. Consequently, the drive can be simplified in design and improved in efficiency and reliability. Application of the oscillating rotary motors, if used in the aforesaid devices, strictly depends on specific properties of mechanical system of a motor aggregated with the driven mechanism and considered as the one‐piece unit on the whole. So, this study analyses how the properties of mechanical system, comprised of two moving parts interconnected eccentrically or centrically, can be evaluated by the equivalent rotational inertia, equivalent mass and by equivalent mechanical power factor which, in turn, determine the operating characteristics and basic possibilities of the motor.
DYNAMICS DESIGN OF MECHANISM OF CRANE TROLLEY MOVEMENT
Authors: Demokritov Vladimir , Oleshkevich Aleksandr
Published: January 2019

A crane trolley with a hanging oscillating load was considered. Normal and tangential acceleration of the load and difference between the weight of the load and the strain of the rope are taken into account. Three differential dynamic equations were made. After the solution of the system one nonlinear equation was got; the solution of it was found. Frequency of own vibrations, amplitude and phase were defined taking primary conditions into consideration. The condition of resonance prevention was revealed.
PRODUCTION AMALGAMATION'S “BELARUSKALI” POTASH DELIVERY SYSTEM ANALYSIS FROM LOGISTIC POSITIONS
Authors: Kolos Maxim
Published: January 2019

Belarus is one of the largest manufacturers of potash fertilizers. Geographical remoteness from commodity markets and absence of its own exit to sea require transshipment of production in foreign seaports. In this article, the author is analyzing, deriving from logistic considerations, according to which principles of such delivery system should be designed, what can be the criterion of its efficiency, how volumes of cargo transported through various channels influence self‐organizing capacity of the system as a whole, and what is the synergetic effect on the logistic system. The questions of designing logistic systems considered in this article on the example of potash fertilizers are, in many respects, common to all Byelorussian exporters.
ECONOMICAL EVALUATION OF LOGISTICS CENTRES ESTABLISHMENT
Authors: Meidutė Ieva
Published: January 2019

This paper presents a method for assessing the financial viability of a new Freight village financed by private and public investments. The financial evaluation model constitutes four distinct phases, namely (a) site selection and traffic forecasts, (b) definition of services offered and corresponding dimensions, (c) estimation of investment and operation costs and (d) evaluation of investments. Furthermore, the model produces financing scenarios, based on combinations of public and private funds.
RESEARCH ON THE STRUCTURE OF CARGO FLOW IN LATVIA
Authors: Meirane Elina
Published: January 2019

The article provides analysis of the transport branch in Latvia in the period of time from 1999 to 2005. The notion of multimodality and its role in the development of logistics are viewed. By analyzing statistical data about the distribution of the cargo flow by each kind of transport, the author of the article has examined the existence of multimodality for creation of the logistics centers in Latvia. Furthermore, there is analysis of the cargo flow in the regions of Latvia and its distribution among the types of transport and kinds of communications in order to determine the territories prior to creation of a specific kind of a logistics center.
COACH TERMINAL AS IMPORTANT ELEMENT OF TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE
Authors: Gromule Vaira , Yatskiv Irina
Published: January 2019

The determination of the coach terminal as passenger logistics hub is described. The factors responsible for successful functioning of this hub are discussed. The location of the coach terminal is one of the important factors. The present coach terminal is located in the heart of the city where land availability is critical. The simulation model of the terminal was developed to complement the design and construction of a new one. The used simulation package VISSIM has visual reference to assist in explaining the complexity of transport node's job and analysis of possible congestions. During the development of the modelling the critical bottlenecks are identified and decisions are taken to reduce the risk of their occurrence, the solution being immediately incorporated into the final design of the coach terminal under development.
DETERMINATION OF TRAFFIC FLOW PARAMETERS IN DIFFERENT TRAFFIC FLOW INTERACTION CASES
Authors: Junevičius Raimundas , Bogdevičius Marijonas
Published: January 2019

Modelling of straight road section consisting of one traffic line gives the opportunity to simulate “follow the car” system. In general it looks like a line of vehicles, going one after another. Kinetic theory, used in this paper describes traffic flow system as a straight unbroken line with limited flow speed and concentration. Such model also gives the opportunity to derive traffic lines intersections. For example, intersection could be derived like a point with traffic lines coming and outgoing from this point by only changing boundary conditions. Mathematical model is built using characteristic method.