bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of Absolute Decoupling from Real World Policy Mixes in Europe
Authors: Fedrigo-Fazio Doreen , Schweitzer Jean-Pierre , Ten Brink Patrick , Mazza Leonardo , Ratliff Alison , Watkins Emma
Published: May 2016

In resource economics, decoupling from environmental impacts is assumed to be beneficial. However, the success of efforts to increase resource productivity should be placed within the context of the earth’s resources and ecosystems as theoretically finite and contingent on a number of threshold values. Thus far relatively few analyses exist of policies which have successfully implemented strategies for decoupling within these limits. Through ex-post evaluation of a number of real world policy mixes from European Union member states, this paper further develops definitions of the concept of decoupling. Beyond absolute (and relative) decoupling, “absolute decoupling within limits” is proposed as an appropriate term for defining resource-productivity at any scale which respects the existing real world limits on resources and ecosystems and as such, contributes to meeting sustainability objectives. Policy mixes presented here cover a range of resources such as fish stocks, fertilizers, aggregates and fossil based materials (plastics). Policy mixes demonstrating absolute decoupling and at least one where absolute decoupling within limits has occurred, provide insights on developing resource efficiency policies in Europe and beyond.
Earth Observation for Maritime Spatial Planning: Measuring, Observing and Modeling Marine Environment to Assess Potential Aquaculture Sites
Authors: Valentini Emiliana , Filipponi Federico , Nguyen Xuan Alessandra , Passarelli Francesco , Taramelli Andrea
Published: May 2016

Physical, chemical and biological characteristics of seawaters are primary descriptors for understanding environmental patterns and improving maritime spatial planning for potential aquaculture uses. By analyzing these descriptors in spatial and temporal dimensions, it is possible to characterize the potential productivity performances of different locations for specific aquaculture species. We developed a toolbox that, starting from the actual competing uses of the maritime space, aims at: (a) identifying sites with conditions feasible for aquaculture fish growth (feasibility scenario); and (b) assessing their different productivity performances in terms of potential fish harvest (suitability scenario). The toolbox is being designed in the Mediterranean, northern Adriatic Sea, but because of its modularity/multi-stage process, it can be easily adapted to other areas, or scaled to larger areas. The toolbox, representing a pre-operational Copernicus downstreaming service that integrates data and products from different sources (in situ, Earth Observation and modeling), is innovative because it is based more on parameters relevant for fish vitality than on those oriented to farm functioning. Stakeholders and farmers involved in the maritime spatial planning can use resulting scenarios for decision-making and market-trading processes.
Focus on the Development of Natural Gas Hydrate in China
Authors: Tan Zhongfu , Pan Ge , Liu Pingkuo
Published: May 2016

Natural gas hydrate, also known as combustible ice, and mainly composed of methane, is identified as a potential clean energy for the 21st century. Due to its large reserves, gas hydrate can ease problems caused by energy resource shortage and has gained attention around the world. In this paper, we focus on the exploration and development of gas hydrate as well as discussing its status and future development trend in China and abroad. We then analyze its opportunities and challenges in China from four aspects, resource, technology, economy and policy, with five forces model and Politics Economics Society Technology method. The results show China has abundance gas hydrate resource; however, backward technologies and inadequate investment have seriously hindered the future development of gas hydrate; thus, China should establish relevant cooperation framework and intuitional arrangement to attract more investment as well as breaking through technical difficulties to commercialization gas hydrate as soon as possible.
A Simulation Study on the Urban Population of China Based on Nighttime Light Data Acquired from DMSP/OLS
Authors: Huang Qingxu , Yang Yang , Li Yajing , Gao Bin
Published: May 2016

The urban population (UP) measure is one of the most direct indicators that reflect the urbanization process and the impacts of human activities. The dynamics of UP is of great importance to studying urban economic, social development, and resource utilization. Currently, China lacks long time series UP data with consistent standards and comparability over time. The nighttime light images from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s (DMSP) Operational Linescan System (OLS) allow the acquisition of continuous and highly comparable long time series UP information. However, existing studies mainly focus on simulating the total population or population density level based on the nighttime light data. Few studies have focused on simulating the UP in China. Based on three regression models (i.e., linear, power function, and exponential), the present study discusses the relationship between DMSP/OLS nighttime light data and the UP and establishes optimal regression models for simulating the UPs of 339 major cities in China from 1990 to 2010. In addition, the present study evaluated the accuracy of UP and non-agricultural population (NAP) simulations conducted using the same method. The simulation results show that, at the national level, the power function model is the optimal regression model between DMSP/OLS nighttime light data and UP data for 1990–2010. At the provincial scale, the optimal regression model varies among different provinces. The linear regression model is the optimal regression model for more than 60% of the provinces. In addition, the comparison results show that at the national, provincial, and city levels, the fitting results of the UP based on DMSP/OLS nighttime light data are better than those of the NAP. Therefore, DMSP/OLS nighttime light data can be used to effectively retrieve the UP of a large-scale region. In the context of frequent population flows between urban and rural areas in China and difficulty in obtaining accurate UP data, this study provides a timely and effective method for solving this problem.
On Solutions for Linear and Nonlinear Schrödinger Equations with Variable Coefficients: A Computational Approach
Authors: Amador Gabriel , Colon Kiara , Luna Nathalie , Mercado Gerardo , Pereira Enrique , Suazo Erwin
Published: May 2016

In this work, after reviewing two different ways to solve Riccati systems, we are able to present an extensive list of families of integrable nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equations with variable coefficients. Using Riccati equations and similarity transformations, we are able to reduce them to the standard NLS models. Consequently, we can construct bright-, dark- and Peregrine-type soliton solutions for NLS with variable coefficients. As an important application of solutions for the Riccati equation with parameters, by means of computer algebra systems, it is shown that the parameters change the dynamics of the solutions. Finally, we test numerical approximations for the inhomogeneous paraxial wave equation by the Crank-Nicolson scheme with analytical solutions found using Riccati systems. These solutions include oscillating laser beams and Laguerre and Gaussian beams.
Reissner–Nordström Anti-de Sitter Black Holes in Mimetic F(R) Gravity
Authors: Oikonomou V. K.
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we study under which conditions the Reissner–Nordström anti-de Sitter black hole can be a solution of the vacuum mimetic F ( R ) gravity with Lagrange multiplier and mimetic scalar potential. As the author demonstrates, the resulting picture in the mimetic F ( R ) gravity case is a trivial extension of the standard F ( R ) approach, and in effect, the metric perturbations in the mimetic F ( R ) gravity case, for the Reissner–Nordström anti-de Sitter black hole metric, at the first order of the perturbed variables are the same at the leading order.
Extreme Weather Events and Climate Variability Provide a Lens to How Shallow Lakes May Respond to Climate Change
Authors: Havens Karl , Paerl Hans , Phlips Edward , Zhu Mengyuan , Beaver John , Srifa Akeapot
Published: May 2016

Shallow lakes, particularly those in low-lying areas of the subtropics, are highly vulnerable to changes in climate associated with global warming. Many of these lakes are in tropical cyclone strike zones and they experience high inter-seasonal and inter-annual variation in rainfall and runoff. Both of those factors strongly modulate sediment–water column interactions, which play a critical role in shallow lake nutrient cycling, water column irradiance characteristics and cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom (CyanoHAB) dynamics. We illustrate this with three examples, using long-term (15–25 years) datasets on water quality and plankton from three shallow lakes: Lakes Okeechobee and George (Florida, USA) and Lake Taihu (China). Okeechobee and Taihu have been impacted repeatedly by tropical cyclones that have resulted in large amounts of runoff and sediment resuspension, and resultant increases in dissolved nutrients in the water column. In both cases, when turbidity declined, major blooms of the toxic CyanoHAB Microcystis aeruginosa occurred over large areas of the lakes. In Lake George, periods of high rainfall resulted in high dissolved color, reduced irradiance, and increased water turnover rates which suppress blooms, whereas in dry periods with lower water color and water turnover rates there were dense cyanobacteria blooms. We identify a suite of factors which, from our experience, will determine how a particular shallow lake will respond to a future with global warming, flashier rainfall, prolonged droughts and stronger tropical cyclones.
Le salut par les messes : les Valenciennois devant la mort à la fin du XVIIe siècle
Authors: Marle Catherine
Published: May 2016

Les testaments, source première d'une histoire de la mort étaient au XVIIe siècle des actes religieux, dans lesquels les testateurs se préoccupaient du sort de leur âme. Dans ce contexte, les demandes de messes formulées par les fidèles, étaient d'une très grande importance. La plupart des testateurs pieux ou dévots s'attachaient à prévoir ce type de suffrages, pour eux-mêmes ou pour leurs proches, dans le but d'assurer à leur âme un bon passage dans l'au- delà, et de réduire au maximum l'inévitable temps de purgatoire.

A partir d'un échantillon de 420 testaments de Valenciennois, cet article tente de définir les différents types de messes et les arguments qui présidaient aux choix des testateurs de la fin du xvne siècle.
Les Etats provinciaux face à leurs administrés : du dialogue à la censure (Artois, Cambrésis, 1680-1789)
Authors: Legay Marie-Laure
Published: May 2016

De Provinciale Staten en hun onderdanen : van de dialoog naar de censuur (Artois, Cambrésis, 1680-1789).

De studie van 11 567 verzoekschriften aan de Staten van Artezië gedurende meer dan een eeuw is de spiegel van de relatie tussen de provinciale vergadering en haar geadministreerden.

Uit hoofde van een « economische rechtspraak » op toepassing van Artezië behandelden de Staten deze verzoekschriften zelfs aan het hof en stelden zo hun roi als tussenpersoon naar de koning in het licht. Na ca 1750 kregen zij meer bevoegdheid voor de bewoners van de provincie. Als door de regering gewettigde administratoren, meer dan de intendant, moesten zij, om tegemoet te komen aan de fiscale eisen van Parijs, soms kiezen voor de dwingende en soms arbitraire oplossing van een externe belanstingsonvanger. De zachte provinciale regering die de vrijheid van de Arteziërs waarborgde, veranderde op het einde van het Ancien Régime in een onhandige voogdij, die als uiting van een algemeen onbehagen resulteerde in een reeks klachten in 1789.
Les portraits de Brûle-Maison
Authors: Carton Fernand
Published: May 2016

L'auteur résume la biographie de François Cottignies dit Brûle-Maison (1678-1740), puis fait l'inventaire des portraits de ce célèbre chansonnier lillois, créateur de la littérature en dialecte picard (patois) dans le Nord de la France. On présente une gouache qui vient d'être acquise par le Centre d'Histoire Locale de Tourcoing et on critique trois interprétations qui en ont été données au XIXe siècle. Certaines données du contexte culturel de Lille au XVIIIe siècle sont précisées, notamment une querelle littéraire qui agitait un groupe d'artistes et d'écrivains, et dont les commentateurs n'ont pas fait état. Deux poèmes satiriques permettent de dater le tableau de 1735, et de l'intituler : « Tiroux inspirant Brûle-Maison ».
La France, la Belgique et les missions. A propos de deux lettres de Paul Claudel à dom Edouard Neut, moine de Saint-André-lez-Bruges (1929- 1930)
Authors: Chenaux Philippe
Published: May 2016

Frankrijk, België en de missies. Over twee brieven van Paul Claudel aan dom Edouard Neut, monnik van Sint-Andries-bij-Brugge (1929-1930).

In twee handgeschreven brieven, gedateerd 6 december 1929 en 11 januari 1930, gaat Paul Claudel, dan ambassadeur van Frankrijk in de Verenigde Sta- ten, tekeer tegen de antifranse campagne van een Belgisch missieblad, het Bulletin des missions, van de Brugse Sint-Andriesabdij. Deze weinig bekende zaak is tekenend voor de spanningen en de weerstand opgeroepen in Frankrijk door de nieuwe pontificale missiestrategie die erop gericht was een eigen Chinese katolieke kerk op te richten. Het protest van de schrijver-diplomaat aan wiens eerlijkheid men niet mag twijfelen, maakt deel uit van een door de Quai d'Orsay opgezet tegenoffensief om de belangen van het Frans protectoraat (in China) te verdedigen.
Towards the total synthesis of keramaphidin B
Authors: Jakubec Pavol , Farley Alistair J M , Dixon Darren J
Published: May 2016

The enantio- and diastereoselective Michael addition of a δ-valerolactone-derived pronucleophile to a substituted furanyl nitroolefin catalysed by a bifunctional cinchonine-derived thiourea has been used as the key stereocontrolling step in a new synthetic strategy to the heavily functionalised piperidine core of keramaphidin B.
Performance improvements of tax and customs authorities. Case study: Latvia
Authors: Petersone Mara , Ketners Karlis
Published: May 2016

The aim of this paper is to investigate performance management of the State Revenue Service
(SRS) of the Republic of Latvia in the context of effective public budgeting. This article investigates performance
indicators in the context of process (activity) management in tax and customs authority and examines
a number of practical issues with regard to the design of management practices. Several research
methods, such as analysis of academic and professional publications and logical and comparative analysis,
are applied in this research. The main findings are related to the analysis of activities of SRS and could be
practically implemented at SRS.
Assessment of financial benefits of selected mezzanine financing instruments
Authors: Tetrevova Libena , Svedik Jan
Published: May 2016

The paper deals with the problems of assessment of financial benefits of subordinated loans and
convertible bonds. The paper authors aim to propose and verify methodology for assessment of the financial
benefits of subordinated loans and convertible bonds. The introductory part characterizes the theoretical
background of assessment of the financial benefits of the classic financing sources. Subsequently, the authors
propose methodology for assessment of the financial benefits of subordinated loans and convertible
bonds. The final part includes a case study that, using the proposed methodology, documents the outcomes
of the comparison of the financial benefits of the mentioned instruments in the actual conditions of the Czech
Republic.
The internal factors which affect the innovativeness of tourist enterprises
Authors: Szymańska Elžbieta
Published: May 2016

The aim of this article is to indicate internal factors which affect the enhancement of tourist enterprises
innovativeness. The Author attempts to identify the main factors nased on the literature, subsequently
verifying the theoretical assumptions in the empirical studies. There are present results of two conducted
surveys: the survey performed on a group of 215 different tourist enterprises, and amoug them 98
travel agencies, and the survey performed on a group of 42 innovative touroperators. In order to achieve the
objective, the questionnaire and rakk methods were used. The study showed the following - the owner play
a major role but the importance of individual factors in innovative enterprises is much higher than in the
average tourist enterprises.
Rural tourism and sustainable rural development opportunities in Apulia region (Southern Italy)
Authors: Caruso Donatello , Miró Albert-Pol
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study is to investigate the public aid role in to multifunctional farms in developing
the rural tourism, and the implementation in non-agricultural activities in the Puglia region. Concretely,
by referring to the Rural Development Program 2007/2013, this paper offers an analysis to verify
whether there is a solid support for public aid in agrotourism using a farm level data. After a policies and
literature review on the role of the Local Action Groups (LAGs) for enhancing economic and sustainable
competitiveness of rural areas, we present our case study. Statistical analysis and a tree classification
method are carried out.
Organisational change: generational differences in reaction and commitment
Authors: Ludviga Iveta , Sennikova Irina
Published: May 2016

Organizational acceptance of change and the willingness to embrace it is largely dependent on
employees and their experiences – generations respond to change differently, especially when change is
related to information technologies. The paper aims to explore how three major generations of employees
– Baby Boomers, Xers and Millennials, react to change and how their commitment to change affect
satisfaction and engagement. Data (N = 202) is collected through structured questionnaire and structural
equation modelling technique is used for analysis. The results reveal what major differences between
generations are in place. Recommendations for managing organisational change across the three generations
are provided.
Review of existing and new long-term housing financial instruments in Latvia
Authors: Henilane Inita
Published: May 2016

The purpose of the study is to identify the existing and new long-term housing financial instruments
in Latvia. Principal objectives are: to evaluate the experience of the implementation of existing
housing support programmes in Latvia; to describe the existing and new housing financial instruments in
EU countries; to develop the list of new long-term housing financial instruments suitable for Latvia. Scope
of investigation is housing financial instruments. Research methodology: Analytic research method and
comparative research method. Results and principal conclusions: The results of the research show that
government of Latvia should evaluate which of new long-term financial instruments should be implemented
in housing sector in Latvia.
Development of the Latvian energy sector competitiveness system dynamic model
Authors: Skribans Valerijs , Balodis Maris
Published: May 2016

One of the problems of the Latvian economy is related to the energy sector. In this sector the increasing
competition is related to regional market expansion, building new transmission connection; fuels
and electricity market price conjuncture significant change; energy efficiency requirements increasing, renewable
energy requirements increasing and new market regulatory mechanisms. The system dynamics
model can solve sector competitiveness problems. With the help of the developed model, it has been estimated
that increase in total electricity consumption (around 10%) can be expected in Latvia during the
next 10 years. Decline in electricity loss and electricity imports is predicted. Increase of the capacity of
production means and the amount of the produced energy is being forecasted.
Cost efficiency of the Czech and Slovak banking sectors: an application of the data envelopment analysis
Authors: Palečková Iveta
Published: May 2016

The aim of the paper is to estimate the cost efficiency of the Czech and Slovak commercial banks
within the period 2010-2014. For empirical analysis the Data Envelopment Analysis input-oriented model
with variable returns to scale is applied on the data of the commercial banks. The intermediation approach
is adopted to define the inputs and outputs. The Czech commercial banks are more cost efficient than Slovak
commercial banks. The development of average cost efficiency is similar in the Czech and Slovak banking
industry. The most efficient Czech banks are Ceská sporitelna and Sberbank in the Czech banking sector,
the most efficient Slovak bank is Privatbanka with 100% efficiency.
International trade relationships in EU countries through multidimensional scaling during the years 1996–2012
Authors: Grigonytė Ingrida , Garcia Fernando , Oliver Javier
Published: May 2016

International trade is one of the most important parts of economic integration and globalization.
Thus it is crucial to study the development of international trade relationships in order to follow and
understand every score and reasons behind it. In this article, multidimensional scaling analysis is performed
in order to investigate the evolution of international trade relationships in the EU countries in 1996–
2012. The results show that the evolution of trade relationships among EU countries is not entirely homogeneous.
Different country groups arise regarding different variables, such as geographical location or
being former members of the same economic or political union.
The importance of building positive reputation of chemical industry companies for development of reationships within supply chains
Authors: Jelinkova Martina , Lostakova Hana
Published: May 2016

Recent surveys on the B2B market in the Czech Republic show clearly that most of the addressed
managers consider reputation as the most important factor of the competitiveness of their companies.
Therefore, it is possible to regard mastered reputation management as the basis for creation of a
unique competitive advantage, which finally results in deepening of the positive relationships with all the
stakeholders. The paper presents the outcomes of primary quantitative surveys conducted within chemical
product supply chains on the B2B market in the Czech Republic. The surveys aimed to identify factors
that are crucial for building positive reputation of companies within supply chains and, at the same time, to
assess and compare their importance as perceived by chemical product suppliers and their customers.
Assessment of cooperation within chosen supply system in the Czech chemical industry
Authors: Vlckova Vladimira
Published: May 2016

Cost effective creation of value through integration of logistic processes is considered as a significant
source of competitive advantage of applied logistics. This transition to supply systems with a dynamic
structure requires solutions to a number of problems; one of them is to setup the ways of cooperation
between the entities inside supply chains. Application of different forms of cooperation depends on a
lot of problems inter alia on branch characteristics and characteristics of the manufactured product. Therefore,
this paper identifies and evaluates, on the basis of comparison of literature research outcomes and
analysis of cooperation ways between partners within chosen supply system in the chemical industry, the
ways, the conditions, and the advantages of this cooperation.
The consumer loyalty formation process and its particularities in the retail sector
Authors: Linina Iveta , Zvirgzdina Rosita
Published: May 2016

Retail sector has always played and important role in the national economy. Any business is
tendet towards satisfaction of consumer desires and needs, albeit profits. In relationships between companies
and consumers both sides have their interests. For a company it, primary, is to increase the turnover
and make profits, while the consumers may have several goals – to obtain the goods or services, to receive
the necessary information and attitude. These consumer benefits are the basis for loyalty. Thus, the aim of
the present paper is to research the loyalty formation process and its characteristics in the retail sector.
Conditions for development of companies' cooperation and entrepreneurship
Authors: Daniluk Andrzej , Tomaszuk Anna
Published: May 2016

The aim is to point out the factors of cooperation between firms working in the same branch of
industry. The article uses the method of critical analysis of literature and statistical analysis of data obtained
from a survey conducted in Polish metal and machine companies, which are one of leading industries
in Podlaskie voivodeship. Analyzed were primarily: the evaluation of the level of existing cooperation;
the impact of each factor on the current level of cooperation and the impact of positive changes on
improving the current level of cooperation. To improve cooperation between competing companies more
proactive approach of the research centers and business incubators is recommended in linking the potential
areas of cooperation.
The concept of proper quality of construction works in Lithuanian construction law
Authors: Mitkus Sigitas
Published: May 2016

The article analyses the concept of proper quality of construction works in law of the Republic
of Lithuania. The analysis covers the quality requirements laid down in the Law on Construction, the Civil
Code and case law. The article also defines and analyses the main categories used in Lithuanian law to
characterise the quality of construction works, in particular, compliance with the standard quality of a construction
works, compliance with the quality requirements set in contract documents, compliance with the
requirements ordinarily presented for work of the respective nature, and fitness for use in accordance with
its designation within the limits of a reasonable period.
Environmental goods and services sector
Authors: Broniewicz Elzbieta
Published: May 2016

The main objective of the following paper is to present the Environmental Goods and Services
Sector (EGSS) in European Union countries. The Environmental Goods and Services Sector is one of the
modules of environmental economic accounts, as satellite accounts in relation to national accounts. The
first part of the paper gives an overiew of EGSS definitions and classifications. In second part, the comparison
between the EGSS variables in certain EU countries was made. The output, export and employment
of the Environmental Goods and Services System were analyzed. The data is presented by environmental
protection domains and natural resources managements domains, as well as by economic activity.
Impact of time zones on forecasting of exchange market based on distribution of expected values
Authors: Maknickienė Nijolė , Maknickas Algirdas
Published: May 2016

Forecasting of chaotic changes of exchange rates usually is based on historical data and depends
on the choice of time intervals. This study seeks to develop new forecasting method based on data of different
time zones. This paper demonstrates how the using of London and New York divisions of the trading
day allows getting additional information from predicting exchange rates. This was modelled with the
help of ensemble of EVOLINO for obtaining of predictions of the distribution of expected values. The obtained
results show that double forecasts evaluation reveals a possible trend in the exchange market and
enriches the choice of real-time trading strategies.
The concept of builder and its liability for the quality of the construction works in Lithuanian construction law
Authors: Cibulskienė Renata , Mitkus Sigitas
Published: May 2016

A construction process, from the issue of a document allowing construction to signing a transfer-
acceptance deed, involves a number of entities for which the law provides for different rights and duties.
One of such entities is a builder (customer). The article discusses issues related with the establishment
of the builder’s duties during the construction process and application of liability for failure to perform
them or improper performance thereof. The concept of the builder (customer) is disclosed, and the builder’s
civil liability for incompliance of construction works with the laws or provisions of the works contract,
as well as late performance of construction works are analysed. It is analysed how to identify correctly
a builder as one of the main entities of construction and to separate him from other participants of
the construction process, such as head of construction or construction technical supervisor. The builder’s
duties are analysed which improper performance has an effect on the quality of works carried out by the
contractor, also issues raised in the Lithuanian case-law are discussed.
On multiple dimensions of criteria representing financial globalisation
Authors: Podviezko Askoldas
Published: May 2016

A prevailing contemporary concept of major researchers in the field of economics suggests that
financial globalisation creates positive effect on economic growth. Besides this crucial hypothesis many
other related with financial liberalisation hypotheses are being tested. Financial liberalisation is an integral
part of globalisation. Quantitative gauging of the level of globalisation creates opportunities for more precise
identification of causes of prominence or lagging of the home country or any other country in question in
comparison with its peers, and creates possibilities to analyse if the country is fully realising its economic
potential. Analysis of criteria and their categories, which reflect the level of financial globalisation, is a
compulsory step for any quantitative evaluation. The purpose of the study is to reveal importance of accurate
evaluation of the level of financial globalisation for allowing further important research to be carried out on
such prime economic processes as economic growth, corruption; income inequality; politics; financial stability;
prudential policy, to provide a brief overview of the variety of existing approaches available in the
literature, which attempt to quantitatively evaluate the level of financial globalisation.
Maintenance as a tool for increasing the efficiency of chemicaltechnological process
Authors: Branska Lenka , Pecinova Zuzana , Patak Michal
Published: May 2016

Reliability, flexibility and speed belong among particularly valued parameters of contractor. In
manufacturing companies, the achievement thereof is significantly limited by the reliability of production
equipment. The aim of the article is to analyze an applied production equipment maintenance system with
heavily utilized production equipment, and to define guidelines for its improvement. A content analysis of
information obtained in a primary qualitative research and a comparison with theoretical approaches made
it possible to define an adequate combination of various types of maintenance, including methods and
tools that are not primarily intended for the examined type of manufacturing processes.
Innovation management studies: technological advance and challenges of globalization
Authors: Melnikas Borisas
Published: May 2016

The essence, principles, the needs and opportunities of the improvement of the innovation management
studies, as well as main priorities and trends of the innovation management specialists education
and training systems development are investigated and discussed. Main problems and improvement priorities
in the field of innovation management studies, particularly – under contemporary conditions of globalization
and in the context of the needs of technological advance, are identified and analyzed. A complex
analysis of current situation and of the development of innovation management studies and of innovation
management specialists education and training systems modernization processes and problems is presented.
Special attention is paid to innovation management specialists education, training and development
under contemporary conditions and challenges of globalization, knowledge based society creation, European
integration and the European Union’s enlargement, as well as to the needs of the improvement of innovation
management studies in accordance with the processes and priorities of the high technology sectors
development and activation of the technological advance in general.
The absence of well-founded general and special principles of innovation management studies and innovation
management specialists education, training and development, as well as the absence of special principles
of innovation management studies under contemporary conditions of globalization and in the context
of the needs of technological advance could be defined as an especially important scientific, practical and
research problem.
An in-depth analysis of innovation management specialists’ development principles and practical experiences
in the area of innovation management specialists education and training is provided.
The analysis of Lithuanian payment market: are we stuck to cash?
Authors: Remeikiene Rita , Gaspareniene Ligita , Grigaliune Gintare
Published: May 2016

Rapid technologic advancement alongside with increasing individual needs determine popularity
of information technologies. As a result, a number of newly-developed instruments that enable to make
payments in the methods different from cash are introduced to consumers in the payment market. The aim
of this article is to establish how widely cash is used for making payments in Lithuanian payment market.
The results of the research have revealed that the number of cash settlements in Lithuanian payment market
is decreasing. Although the number of newly issued debit and credit cards is increasing, cash remains
the prevalent method of payment, which corresponds to the trends of payment in the EU payment market.
Risk management model for transportation company
Authors: Stasytytė Viktorija , Pilionienė Raminta
Published: May 2016

There are different risk management models developed in scientific as well as in practical literature,
but they are usually of general manner and should be adapted for particular company or field of activity.
The paper aims at developing a risk management model for transportation company, based on the
prevalent theoretical provisions of risk management activity. The separate attention is given to risk identification
stage as it proves to be a critical step of risk management process. Different methods, such as
SWOT, PEST, financial analysis and questionnaire are applied to identify risks in transportation sector
company. The proposed model includes the basic steps of risk management process and ends with a detailed
risk management plan preparation.
CRM and its results in Czech small and medium companies
Authors: Starzyczna Halina , Stoklasa Michal , Pellesova Pavlina
Published: May 2016

The objective of this article is to present partial results of primary research, which was carried
out on the basis of questionnaire survey that was focused on the issue of customer relationship management
in small and medium-sized companies. The basis is brief theoretical debate focused on the specifics
of small and medium-sized companies and customer relationship management. The sample consists of 736
companies from the Moravian-Silesian Region. The research findings focus on CRM awareness, what
CRM means to companies and what are the long term results of CRM utilization. The final part of the article
presents the established and verified statistical hypothesis reflecting the nature of the relationship between
respondents and their answers.
Legal decision support system application possibility in corporate governance
Authors: Mikštienė Ruta , Keršulienė Violeta
Published: May 2016

Decision-making that must be supported by specific information or reasoning extensively relies
on decision support systems, capable of handling data from multiple sources. Most decision-makers seek
to find cost-effective solutions, i.e. mainly focusing on most efficient solutions in economic terms, consequently,
it is the economic information that is basically processed and offered for decision-making process
by decision support systems, along with economic models. Though businesses focus on the most rational
solutions to the management process, other criteria also play an important role, including time costs, confidentiality,
and friendly relations with service users, customers, partners and government agencies, etc.,
thus management decision-making may successfully rely on legal decision support systems. The article
presents an overview of legal decision support systems and their potential as regards their application in
addressing a wide array of business management issues. The article also focuses on the selection and
screening of indicators critical to decision-making, and offers a potential structure for management decision-
making.
Evaluation of brand competitiveness: regression analysis approach
Authors: Butkus Mindaugas , Masullo Riccardo
Published: May 2016

Article aims to show an application of regression analysis for qualitative evaluation of companies’
brand competitiveness from a customer point of view. Presented methodology could be applied if only
a certain level of competition is observed in the market. We assume that (i) brand competitiveness is
embodied into commodities’, that companies are selling, prices and (ii) companies that have more competitive
brand are able to sell their commodity at a higher price after controlling for other explicit factors potentially
affecting price. For this purpose, we adapt classical linear regression model and provide an example
with car companies’ brands in the Italian market.
International business negotiation strategies based on assessment of negotiating powers
Authors: Peleckis Kęstutis
Published: May 2016

The aim of the article is to make integrated analysis of current practice and theory in international
business negotiations on creation of negotiation strategies and their implementation, to reveal opportunities
for improvement of strategies creation and implementation according the needs to assess negotiating
power reasonably of international business, to create theoretical model of development and
implementation strategies of international business negotiation, based on evaluation of negotiating powers.
The object of the article is international business negotiation strategies, their design and implementation
processes, the needs and possibilities for their improvement, considering the assessment of the negotiating
powers feasibility factors. The article seeks to identify the key elements of negotiating powers,
determining the potential of negotiating, their adequate evaluation and configuration options, affecting the
course and efficiency of international business negotiations.
The “born globals” phenomenon in Czech Republic
Authors: Reková Eliška
Published: May 2016

The aim of this article is to analyse the “born globals” phenomenon in Czech Republic from
history until present and to critically evaluate available definitions and their comparison in worldwide context.
The scientific aim of this paper focuses on finding out at which level is the general knowledge about
the “born globals” topic amongst both younger generation of future entrepreneurs and already established
SME companies in Czech Republic. This paper also aims to define foreign market entry barriers. This paper
uses the analysis of both primary and secondary data, it focuses on questionnaire research and the results
are then processed and evaluated by using descriptive statistics methods and relative frequency analysis.
The result of this paper is to analyse the phenomenon of “born globals” in the Czech republic, evaluate the
general knowledge about the “born globals” term, define foreign market entry barriers and propose solution
on how to eliminate the barriers. This paper should help managers to understand current trends, identify
foreign market entry barriers while starting “born globals” companies and support the processes of internationalization
and innovation in business.
Strategies of national Lithuanian companies to enter international markets
Authors: Matulaityte-Feldhausen Milda , Ginevicius Romualdas
Published: May 2016

Restoration of independence of Lithuania in 1990 led to highly successful transition from centrally
planned economy to market economy within only two decades. New challenges for domestic companies
came up, to be a part of internationalization and globalization. It became necessary to develop
strategies for national companies to enter international markets and to make the optimal choice of entry
mode. The main emphasis is put on the choice between traditional modes of market entry as casual export
and new possible entry modes. Typical factors as emigration, intercultural differences etc. are analysed to
show how to use domestic market weaknesses to create strengths for entry strategies.
The interactions between wages and productivity nurturing the country’s competitiveness
Authors: Danilevičienė Irena , Gruževskis Boguslavas
Published: May 2016

Nowadays wages are determined according to the results of the work but the increase of salaries
leads to the higher productivity and efficient work. Here is a strong interaction between wage and productivity,
which leads to the country’s competitiveness development. The object of research – the interactions
be-tween the wage and productivity. The goal of the article is to assess the influence of wage and productivity
on the country’s competitiveness. In addition, the following tasks have been implemented: to analyse
the theoretical aspects of productivity and wage; to reveal the connection between productivity and
wage and to assess the influence of this interaction on the country’s competitiveness. In this article, the
following methods of analysis are used: an analysis and summarize of the scientific literature, the theoretical
and practical statements matching method, analysis of the statistical data, correlation and regression
analysis.
Family factors associated with immunization uptake in children aged between twelve and fifty-nine months: a household survey in Kakamega Central district, Western Kenya
Authors: Sunguti Joram L. , Neave Penny E. , Taylor Steve
Published: May 2016

In this study, we assessed immunization uptake and identified family factors associated with immunization in children aged between 12 and 59 months in Kakamega Central, Western Kenya. A cross sectional study was conducted in 13 sub-locations between June and July 2013. Data on 577 children were collected from their respective caregivers, by trained research assistants. The proportion of fully immunized children was 80.9% (95% confidence interval 76.9-85.3%). Immunization coverage was higher among caregivers who had completed secondary school (88%), those who had attended antenatal care clinics (81%) and children born in a health facility (85%). Some evidence was seen of increasing coverage with increasing socio-economic status. No evidence for a gender difference in coverage was seen. In the logistic regression model, the risk factors for incomplete immunization were: low educational level of the caregiver [adjusted odd ratio (AOR)=0.25; P<0.005], never attending any antenatal care (ANC) (AOR=0.14; P<0.05) and delivery outside of health facilities (AOR=0.40; P<0.005). Further inquiry is required into this area to fully comprehend the inextricable linkage between factors affecting immunization.
Secondhand tobacco smoke exposure among adolescents in an Ethiopian school
Authors: Ababulgu Sabit Abazinab , Dereje Nebiyu , Girma Abiot
Published: May 2016

Tobacco use is responsible for 6 million deaths globally per year, of which 600,000 deaths are due to secondhand smoke (SHS) mainly among women and children. This study aims to determine the prevalence of SHS exposure among school-going adolescents and highlights the essential determinants in developing successful strategies to prevent adverse health effects in Ethiopia. The analysis is based on a school based cross sectional study where 1673 students with 98.2% of response rate from grade 9-12, aged 13-19 were included. Data was collected by a self-administered questionnaire that is adapted from the global youth tobacco survey questionnaire. Proportions and 95% confidence intervals were obtained as estimates of prevalence. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were made using logistic regression on SPSS version 20.0 software in order to predict factors associated with SHS exposure. About 17% of adolescents were exposed to tobacco smoke in their home, whereas more than half (60.8%) of adolescents were exposed to tobacco smoke in public places. In multivariate analysis, sex, parent smoking, peer smoking, and absence of discussion in the classroom about dangers of smoking were seen significantly associated with SHS exposure. The prevalence of SHS exposure among adolescents in Ethiopia is highest. Moreover, exposure to SHS in public places is much higher than at home.
Striving toward malaria elimination and the necessity to be persistent in our efforts
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh R. , Shrivastava Prateek S. , Ramasamy Jegadeesh
Published: May 2016

Not available.
Splice variants of androgen receptor and prostate cancer
Authors: Caffo Orazio , Maines Francesca , Veccia Antonello , Kinspergher Stefania , Galligioni Enzo
Published: May 2016

Over the last ten years, two new-generation hormonal drugs and two chemotherapeutic agents have been approved for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Unfortunately, some patients have primary resistance to them and the others eventually develop secondary resistance. It has recently been suggested that the presence of androgen receptor splice variants plays a leading role in the primary and secondary resistance to the new hormonal drugs, whereas their presence seem to have only a partial effect on the activity of the chemotherapeutic agents. The aim of this paper is to review the published data concerning the role of androgen receptor splice variants in prostate cancer biology, and their potential use as biomarkers when making therapeutic decisions.
The distribution of the dwarf succulent genus Conophytum N.E.Br. (Aizoaceae) in southern Africa
Authors: Young Andrew J. , Desmet Philip G.
Published: May 2016

Background: The dwarf succulent genus Conophytum N.E.Br. is one of the most species rich in the Aizoceae. The genus is most closely associated with a region of high floral endemism and biodiversity, the Succulent Karoo biome in south-western Africa.Objectives: To examine the distribution of Conophytum in south-western Namibia and in the Northern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa.Method: A database comprising 2798 locality records representing all known species and subspecies of the genus Conophytum has been constructed.Results: The genus is primarily restricted to the arid winter-rainfall region of the Northern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa and south-western Namibia, within the Greater Cape Floristic Region. Whilst taxa are found across all the main biomes in the region (the Succulent Karoo, Nama Karoo, Desert and Fynbos biomes), 94% of Conophytum taxa are found only in the Succulent Karoo biome and predominantly (88% of taxa) within South Africa. Endemism within specific bioregions is a feature of the genus and ~60% of taxa are endemic to the Succulent Karoo. Approximately 28% of all taxa could be considered point endemics. Whilst the genus has a relatively wide geographical range, we identify a pronounced centre of endemism in the southern Richtersveld.Conclusion: The genus Conophytum can be used as a good botanical model for studying patterns of diversity and speciation in the Succulent Karoo biome, the effects of climate change on dwarf succulents, and for informing conservation planning efforts.