bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is an interval the right result of arithmetic operations on intervals?
Authors: Piegat Andrzej , Landowski Marek
Published: September 2017

For many scientists interval arithmetic (IA, I arithmetic) seems to be easy and simple. However, this is not true. Interval arithmetic is complicated. This is confirmed by the fact that, for years, new, alternative versions of this arithmetic have been created and published. These new versions tried to remove shortcomings and weaknesses of previously proposed options of the arithmetic, which decreased the prestige not only of interval arithmetic itself, but also of fuzzy arithmetic, which, to a great extent, is based on it. In our opinion, the main reason for the observed shortcomings of the present IA is the assumption that the direct result of arithmetic operations on intervals is also an interval. However, the interval is not a direct result but only a simplified representative (indicator) of the result. This hypothesis seems surprising, but investigations prove that it is true. The paper shows what conditions should be satisfied by the result of interval arithmetic operations to call it a “result”, how great its dimensionality is, how to perform arithmetic operations and solve equations. Examples illustrate the proposed method of interval computations.
A column generation technique for routing and spectrum allocation in cloud–ready survivable elastic optical networks
Authors: Goścień Róża , Walkowiak Krzysztof
Published: September 2017

Driven by increasing user requirements and expectations, the fast development of telecommunications networks brings new challenging optimization problems. One of them is routing and spectrum allocation (RSA) of three types of network flows (unicast, anycast, multicast) in elastic optical networks (EONs) implementing dedicated path protection (DPP). In the paper, we model this problem as integer linear programming (ILP) and we introduce two new optimization approaches—a dedicated heuristic algorithm and a column generation (CG)-based method. Then, relying on extensive simulations, we compare algorithm performance with reference methods and evaluate CG efficiency in detail. The results show that the proposed CG method significantly outperforms reference algorithms and achieves results very close to optimal ones (the average distance to optimal results was at most 2.1%).
Reduced Analgesics Consumption and Pain Intensity after Injections with a New Hyaluronic Acid in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Russu Octav Marius , Feier Andrei Marian , Pop Tudor Sorin , Todoran Marcela , Gergely István
Published: September 2017

Objective: To determine the influence of a new intraarticular hyaluronic acid based hydrogel (Hymovis®) injections on the amount of analgesics consumption in patients diagnosed with primary knee OA.

Methods: A prospective, single-center study that included 35 patients, aged 45-80 years was conducted in our orthopaedics department. Patients received two intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid (24 mg/3 ml; 500–730 kDa; Hymovis®) at one week apart. Follow-up was scheduled at 2 and 6 months after the injections. Assessment tools included Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and an in-house designed questionnaire regarding analgesic consumption (quantity, period and product) during the follow-up.

Results: Compared to baseline, a significant amelioration in visual analogue scale was observed at six months’ follow-up (74.2mm ± 11.7 vs. 57.3mm ± 12.1; p <.0001). 28% (n=10) of the patients reduced their total analgesic consumption at two months after the injections. At final follow-up, the analgesic intake was reduced by more than 50% in almost every case.

Conclusions: Intraarticular administered injections with a novel hyaluronan-based hydrogel (Hymovis®) may reduce the amount of analgesic consumption and self-reported pain intensity in patients with knee OA.
Changes in Knee Joint Space Width in Treatment with a New Hyaluronic-Based Hydrogel
Authors: Russu Octav Marius , Feier Andrei Marian , Pop Tudor Sorin , Todoran Marcela , Gergely István
Published: September 2017

Objective: Our purpose was to assess the effect of a new hyaluronic acid-based (Hymovis®) injections on joint space width narrowing in patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods: A prospective clinical trial was conducted in the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology II from the Clinical County Hospital, Tîrgu Mureș, Romania. Thirty-five patients diagnosed with idiopathic knee osteoarthritis received two intraarticular injections with hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel (24 mg of hyaluronic acid/3 ml) at one-week interval. Anteroposterior radiographs were obtained before the injections, at six and twelve months after. Minimum joint space width was measured by two senior orthopaedics surgeons at each follow up. Each radiograph was measured again by the same evaluators two weeks apart.

Results: Thirty-one patients were present at the final follow-up. A minor reduction in mean weight was noticed (from 82.2 kg ± 16.2 kg to 80.9 kg ± 16.0, p > 0.398) without any correlation with joint space width narrowing. There were no major changes at the first follow up (6 months) regarding joint space narrowing. A reduction in joint space width was observed however at 12 months varying from 4.4 mm (SD ± 1.64, range 1.8-7.1) at the first assessment to 4.3 mm (SD ± 1.26, range 0.0-6.8) at the final follow-up but with no statistical difference (p=0.237).

Conclusion: No significant modification in joint space width at the final follow-up secondarily proved that two injections of Hymovis® may slow down narrowing in the knee joint space over a one-year period.
Ultrasound Guidance Versus Peripheral Neurostimulation for Brachial Plexus Block Anesthesia with Axillary Approach and Multiple Injection Technique
Authors: Lazar Alexandra , Szederjesi János , Iftenie Elena , Azamfirei Leonard
Published: September 2017

Introduction: There are several approaches for brachial plexus anesthesia: supraclavicular, infraclavicular, interscalenic and axillary. Out of these, the axillary approach is considered to be the safest because of the low risk of lesioning the adjacent structures, low risk of phrenic nerve blockade or of producing an iatrogenic pneumothorax. The block can be performed by one single injection at the site, by two injections or by several injection, among each nerve of the plexus. Ultrasound was introduced in regional anesthesia since 1978, being used initially as an auxiliary method to peripheral neurostimulator.

Objectives: The evaluation of ultrasound efficiency as an auxiliary method for brachial plexus block performance, in terms of success rate, vascular punctures. The influence of obesity on performing time, total duration of the block, and success rate of brachial plexus block.

Material and method: Prospective, randomized study which enrolled adult patients, scheduled for surgical emergency or elective surgical intervention on upper limb with brachial plexus block by axillary approach, using either the peripheral nerve stimulation or the ultrasound guidance.

Results: We enrolled 160 patients, grouped in two sets- the ultrasound group= 82 patients (US) the neurostimulation group = 78 patients (NS). Vascular punctures were statistically significant different p= 0, 04. The success rate was not influenced by the obesity.

Conclusions: Ultrasound guidance makes axillary brachial plexus block safer, we can recommend ultrasound guidance as routine for axillary brachial plexus block. The obese patient can beneficiate by both methods of brachial plexus blockage.
The Wnt Signalling Pathways: A Short Review and Specific Roles in Bone Biochemistry
Authors: Kovács Béla , Nagy Előd Ernő , Chendrean Norbert Nándor , Székely-Szentmiklósi Blanka , Gyéresi Árpád
Published: September 2017

As musculoskeletal diseases become an emerging healthcare problem worldwide, profound and comprehensive research has been focused on the biochemistry of bone metabolism in the past decades. Wnt signalling, one of the novel described pathways influencing bone metabolism from the early stages of tissue development, has been recently in the centre of attention. Several Wnt ligands are implied in bone forming pathways via canonical (β-catenin dependent) and non-canonical (β-catenin independent) signalling. Osteoporosis, a catabolic bone disease, has its pathologic background related, inter alia, to alterations in the Wnt signalling, thus key modulators of these pathways became one of the most promising targets in the treatment of osteoporosis. Antibodies inhibiting the activity of endogenous Wnt pathway inhibitors (sclerostin, dickkopf) are recently under clinical trials. The current article offers a brief review of the Wnt signalling pathways, its implication in bone metabolism and fate, and the therapeutic possibilities of osteoporosis through Wnt signalling.
A Standardized Dissection Protocol to Generate Aortic Valvular Scaffolds from Porcine Hearts
Authors: Movileanu Ionela , Harpa Marius , Branzaniuc Klara , Suciu Horatiu , Cotoi Ovidiu S. , Olah Peter , Simionescu Dan
Published: September 2017

Objective: To describe a particular harvesting procedure for isolating intact porcine aortic heart valve roots as potential sources for biologic scaffolds.

Methods: Fresh porcine hearts were brought to the Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Targu Mures. The aortic roots were extracted from the porcine hearts by anatomical dissection. For this purpose, we used a basic surgical instrument kit. This initial phase was the first step in obtaining acellular extracellular matrix as a biologic scaffold material.

Results: Aortic roots were isolated with preservation of the ascending aorta as well as the intact aortic sinus and coronaries together with the adjacent myocardial tissue and anterior leaflet of the mitral valve. This approach allowed for safe mounting of roots into mounting rings for perfusion decellularization.

Conclusions: The described procedure is a feasible protocol for obtaining intact biological valvular scaffolds from porcine hearts. Reduced requirements regarding tools and personnel underline the easiness of aortic root harvesting using this particular procedure.
Analysis of Grassland ANPP Dynamics Due to Changes in Climate Variables at Ukrainian Biosphere Reserve ‘Askania-Nova’
Authors: Belyakov Sergiy , Gofman Orysia , Vyshenska Iryna , Zvegintsev Sergey
Published: September 2017

The Ukrainian feather-grass steppe ecosystems are highly vulnerable to climate changes. To study the impact of climatic factors on steppe ecosystems’ productivity, the correlation and stepwise regression analysis between ANPP and other variables were provided. The correlation of bioclimatic variables (month precipitation, relative humidity and air and soil temperatures) and above-ground net primary production (ANPP) were investigated for three study plots that represent major steppe microrelief: plain, slope and lowland. The results of multiple regression analysis showed the major components that influenced the ANPP at each of the study plots ‘Plain’, ‘Slope’ and ‘Lowland’. The precipitation and relative humidity in the months before the vegetation peak were most important for ANPP accumulation.

Results of this study are important for the prediction of ecosystem changes under the climate changes and also for the development of nature conservation programmes.
Environmental Status of Kam’yanske Reservoir (Ukraine)
Authors: Sharamok Tetyana , Ananieva Tamila , Fedonenko Olena
Published: September 2017

Environmental status of Kam’yanske reservoir (47°55′51.6″N 33°46′08.4″E) as one of the small water bodies belonging to southeast Ukraine was investigated. The integrated environmental assessment based on the quality indices of salt content, trophic–saprobiological indicators and specific toxic water indicators of Kam’yanske reservoir are characterised as ‘satisfactory’ and ‘slightly polluted’. Defined bottom accumulation coefficient (BAC) shows continuing heavy metals enlargement in the upper layer of the bottom sediments and chronic pollution in ecosystem. The content of heavy metals in the muscles of industrial fish in the researched pond did not exceed maximal allowed concentration (MAC) for fish as food according to Ukrainian standards. Accumulation of heavy metals in fish was due to the peculiarities of their ways of nutrition and existing. The total contents of heavy metals in common carp was almost twice as large compared to other fish. The maximum accumulation rates set for fish muscles of essential elements – zinc and iron.
“The Reality from the Myth”: The poor as main agents of forest degradation: Lessons from Ashanti Region, Ghana
Authors: Peprah Prince , Abalo Emmanuel Mawuli , Amoako Jones , Nyonyo Julius , Duah Williams Agyemang , Adomako Isaac
Published: September 2017

The prevailing literature on poverty-environment links mostly presents a rather deterministic view of the nexus between poverty and the environment, revolving around the negative impact of the poor on the environment. Specifically, in Ghana, empirical evidence on the prevalence of forest degradation is sparse because the requisite data are often difficult to obtain. Using a qualitative approach, data collected through in-depth interviews with 45 randomly selected participants and 5 purposively selected key informants (Traditional Authorities) and using a thematic analysis, the poverty-environment, specifically the forest degradation nexus was verified. This cross-sectional study leads the authors to posit that poverty has a minimal negative effect on major forest degradation in Ghana. The study found that the poor were rather conscious, and future-oriented with regard to the environment, specifically forests owing to how their livelihoods and survival are directly linked to their immediate environment. The results suggest that the poverty-environment nexus could be country, or context-specific and varies between geographical and historical contexts. By implication, the seemingly universal assertion that the poor are those who cause major deforestation in communities could be problematic. Henceforth, the study maintains that it would be a fallacy to make generalisations that poverty is the main cause of major forest degradation, since the link between poverty and the environment is very context-specific. We argued on the premise that reduction of poverty in Ghana may not lead to the reduction of forest degradation. Joint implementation of holistic poverty-environment strategies that incorporate both the poor and the rich should be adopted to curb the wanton forest degradation in Ghana.
Alien plant species (ephemerophytes) in Romensko-Poltavsky Geobotanical District, Ukraine
Authors: Dvirna Tetyana S.
Published: September 2017

This paper presents the results of research on ephemerophytes of the alien portion of the flora of the Romensko-Poltavsky Geobotanical District (north-eastern Ukraine). It is a detailed study of this group of plants, conducted for the first time in the Ukraine. The checklist of alien vascular plants contains 345 species, of which 27 species are ephemerophytes (or 8%): Adonis aestivalis, A. annua, Papaver albiflorum, Urtica cannabina, Gypsophila perfoliata, Atriplex micrantha, Chenopodium × preissmannii, Ch. × thellungii, Rumex longifolius, Sisymbrium polymorphum, Euphorbia humifusa, Malus sylvestris, Onobrychis viciifolia, Astrodaucus orientalis, Datura tatula, Solanum schultesii, Lindernia procumbens, Melampyrum cristatum, Helianthus annuus, Petasites spurius, Xanthium ripicola × Xanthium albinum, Echinochloa tzvelevii, Panicum capillare, Panicum capillare L. subsp. barvipulvinatum, Phalaris canariensis, Setaria ×ambigua, Sorghum halepense. The basis of this work is original data of the author obtained during field studies, and a critical study of the literature, archival, cartographic materials and herbarium collections, and the use of classical methods of botanical classification. Complex research of this group of plants was conducted and as a result of these investigations the following characteristics were established: a predominance of kenophytes of Mediterranean origin in this group, species of arid areas, cosmopolitan species with a diffuse type of space structure, therophytes, herbaceous monocarpic plants, mesotrophes, heliophytes and xeromesophytes, with an insignificant degree of impact on native plant communities and with a limited distribution within the study region. The combination of these results indicates that ephemerophytes comprise a temporary, unstable component of the flora of this region of the Ukraine. The paper provides maps of the distribution of these 27 species.
Vieta’s Formula about the Sum of Roots of Polynomials
Authors: Korniłowicz Artur , Pąk Karol
Published: September 2017

In the article we formalized in the Mizar system [2] the Vieta formula about the sum of roots of a polynomial anxn
+ an−

1
xn−

1 + ··· + a
1
x + a
0 defined over an algebraically closed field. The formula says that

x
1

+

x
2

+
⋯
+

x

n
−
1

+

x
n

=
−

a

n
−
1

a
n

$x_1 + x_2 + \cdots + x_{n - 1} + x_n = - {{a_{n - 1} } \over {a_n }}$

, where x
1, x
2,…, xn
are (not necessarily distinct) roots of the polynomial [12]. In the article the sum is denoted by SumRoots.
Introduction to Stopping Time in Stochastic Finance Theory
Authors: Jaeger Peter
Published: September 2017

We start with the definition of stopping time according to [4], p.283. We prove, that different definitions for stopping time can coincide. We give examples of stopping time using constant-functions or functions defined with the operator max or min (defined in [6], pp.37–38). Finally we give an example with some given filtration. Stopping time is very important for stochastic finance. A stopping time is the moment, where a certain event occurs ([7], p.372) and can be used together with stochastic processes ([4], p.283). Look at the following example: we install a function ST: {1,2,3,4} → {0, 1, 2} ∪ {+∞}, we define:

a. ST(1)=1, ST(2)=1, ST(3)=2, ST(4)=2.

b. The set {0,1,2} consists of time points: 0=now,1=tomorrow,2=the day after tomorrow.

We can prove:

c. {w, where w is Element of Ω: ST.w=0}=∅ & {w, where w is Element of Ω: ST.w=1}={1,2} & {w, where w is Element of Ω: ST.w=2}={3,4} and

ST is a stopping time.

We use a function Filt as Filtration of {0,1,2}, Σ where Filt(0)=Ω
now
, Filt(1)=Ω
fut

1 and Filt(2)=Ω
fut

2. From a., b. and c. we know that:

d. {w, where w is Element of Ω: ST.w=0} in Ω
now
and

{w, where w is Element of Ω: ST.w=1} in Ω
fut

1 and

{w, where w is Element of Ω: ST.w=2} in Ω
fut

2.

The sets in d. are events, which occur at the time points 0(=now), 1(=tomorrow) or 2(=the day after tomorrow), see also [7], p.371. Suppose we have ST(1)=+∞, then this means that for 1 the corresponding event never occurs.

As an interpretation for our installed functions consider the given adapted stochastic process in the article [5].

ST(1)=1 means, that the given element 1 in {1,2,3,4} is stopped in 1 (=tomorrow). That tells us, that we have to look at the value f
2(1) which is equal to 80. The same argumentation can be applied for the element 2 in {1,2,3,4}.

ST(3)=2 means, that the given element 3 in {1,2,3,4} is stopped in 2 (=the day after tomorrow). That tells us, that we have to look at the value f
3(3) which is equal to 100.

ST(4)=2 means, that the given element 4 in {1,2,3,4} is stopped in 2 (=the day after tomorrow). That tells us, that we have to look at the value f
3(4) which is equal to 120.

In the real world, these functions can be used for questions like: when does the share price exceed a certain limit? (see [7], p.372).
Pascal’s Theorem in Real Projective Plane
Authors: Coghetto Roland
Published: September 2017

In this article we check, with the Mizar system [2], Pascal’s theorem in the real projective plane (in projective geometry Pascal’s theorem is also known as the Hexagrammum Mysticum Theorem)1. Pappus’ theorem is a special case of a degenerate conic of two lines.

For proving Pascal’s theorem, we use the techniques developed in the section “Projective Proofs of Pappus’ Theorem” in the chapter “Pappus’ Theorem: Nine proofs and three variations” [11]. We also follow some ideas from Harrison’s work. With HOL Light, he has the proof of Pascal’s theorem2. For a lemma, we use PROVER93 and OTT2MIZ by Josef Urban4 [12, 6, 7]. We note, that we don’t use Skolem/Herbrand functions (see “Skolemization” in [1]).
Basel Problem – Preliminaries
Authors: Korniłowicz Artur , Pąk Karol
Published: September 2017

In the article we formalize in the Mizar system [4] preliminary facts needed to prove the Basel problem [7, 1]. Facts that are independent from the notion of structure are included here.
Spermiogenesis and sperm ultrastructure inCalicotyle affinisScott, 1911 (Platyhelminthes, Monogenea, Monopisthocotylea, Monocotylidae)
Authors: Bruňanská M. , Poddubnaya L. G.
Published: September 2017

Spermatological characteristics ofCalicotyle affinisScott, 1911, an endoparasitic monocotylid monogenean from the cloaca of a holocephalan fishChimaera monstrosaL, have been investigated by means of transmission electron microscopy for the first time. Spermiogenesis exhibits features basically similar to those of the congenericCalicotyle kroyeriandCalicotyle australiensis, but there are some new findings with respect to the formation and fine structure of the spermatozoon including the remarkable complex end-piece (EP). Morphogenesis of the EP, which is located at the anterior (proximal) region of the late spermatid, includes two stages: (1) the centriolar region is continuous with a cytoplasmic mass of the zone of differentiation, the electron-dense surface of the spermatid undergoes significant changes in the sculpturing and the inner core of developing spermatid is electron-lucent; (2) after central fusion of the arching membranes a definitive structure of the EP is subsequently evolved, finally comprising 3 – 4 electron-dense discs attached to a central common electron-lucent column. The EP is considered as a synapomorphy of the generaCalicotyle+Dictyocotyle. The mature spermatozoon ofC.affiniscomprises the EP, two parallel axonemes of almost equal lengths with the 9 + “1” trepaxonematan pattern, mitochondrion, nucleus, and a reduced number of parallel cortical microtubules (1 – 3). The posterior (distal) extremity of the mature spematozoon contains a single tapering axoneme. Ultrastructural characteristics of the mature spermatozoon ofC. affiniscoincide mostly with those of congenericC. australiensis. Variations of the spermatological characters within the genusCalicotyle, betweenCalicotyleand enigmaticDictyocotyleas well as other monocotylid monogeneans are discussed.
Policy-Making in Metropolitan Areas: The Aniene River as a Green Infrastructure between Roma and Tivoli
Authors: Rizzo Biancamaria
Published: September 2017

The European policies acknowledge greenways and “Green Infrastructure” as strategically planned and delivered networks comprising the broadest range of green spaces and other environmental features. The Aniene River, linking the eastern suburbs of Rome to the City of Tivoli, has been envisaged in a multi-level approach as a Green-Blue Infrastructure able to hinder land use fragmentation and provide new continuity to remainders of open space. In turn, landscape is taken into account as a biodiversity reservoir, the scenery of outstanding cultural heritage and the relevant backdrop of ordinary life.
Dynamics in the Creative Sector between Rome and the Sea
Authors: Lelo Keti
Published: September 2017

Over the last fifty years the tendency towards a dispersion of productive activities that emerged with globalisation and the advent of telematics have fuelled processes that are changing the structure of metropolitan areas across the world. Against the background of the general process of metropolisation, it is interesting nowadays to study the characteristics, structure and development trends of a vast “hybrid” area that has grown up around the established city of Rome. The subject of this work is an analysis of the creative sector between Rome and the sea, and the potential for future development in this area.
The Sustainable Territorial Innovation of “Inner Peripheries”. The Lazio Region (Italy) Case
Authors: Battaglini Elena
Published: September 2017

This methodological, policy-focused paper firstly defines the concept of “sustainable territorial innovation” and its operationalisation according to the strategic objectives of Europe 2020. Statistical processing was based on 26 indicators, which helped to perform a multivariate analysis and allowed to identify ten groups of municipalities characterised in terms of the territorial sustainable innovation idea. Their GIS spatial distribution has led authors to combine them with the set of indicators proposed by the Italian Government in the UE Cohesion Policy 2014–2020 perspective. The paper also addresses the constraints and opportunities for urban and peri-urban policies within new scenarios.
Influence of the Preparation Method on Planar Perovskite CH3NH3PbI3-xClx Solar Cell Performance and Hysteresis
Authors: Ivanova A. , Tokmakov A. , Lebedeva K. , Roze M. , Kaulachs I.
Published: September 2017

Organometal halide perovskites are promising materials for lowcost, high-efficiency solar cells. The method of perovskite layer deposition and the interfacial layers play an important role in determining the efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In the paper, we demonstrate inverted planar perovskite solar cells where perovskite layers are deposited by two-step modified interdiffusion and one-step methods. We also demonstrate how PSC parameters change by doping of charge transport layers (CTL). We used dimethylsupoxide (DMSO) as dopant for the hole transport layer (PEDOT:PSS) but for the electron transport layer [6,6]-phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM)) we used N,N-dimethyl-N-octadecyl(3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilyl chloride (DMOAP).

The highest main PSC parameters (PCE, EQE, VOC
) were obtained for cells prepared by the one-step method with fast crystallization and doped CTLs but higher fill factor (FF) and shunt resistance (Rsh
) values were obtained for cells prepared by the two-step method with undoped CTLs.
The Evaluation of Efficiency of the Use of Machine Working Time in the Industrial Company – Case Study
Authors: Kardas Edyta , Brožova Silvie , Pustějovská Pavlína , Jursová Simona
Published: September 2017

In the paper the evaluation of efficiency of the use of machines in the selected production company was presented. The OEE method (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) was used for the analysis. The selected company deals with the production of tapered roller bearings. The analysis of effectiveness was done for 17 automatic grinding lines working in the department of grinding rollers. Low level of efficiency of machines was affected by problems with the availability of machines and devices. The causes of machine downtime on these lines was also analyzed. Three basic causes of downtime were identified: no kanban card, diamonding, no operator. Ways to improve the use of these machines were suggested. The analysis takes into account the actual results from the production process and covers the period of one calendar year.
Big Data in the Industry - Overview of Selected Issues
Authors: Gierej Sylwia
Published: September 2017

This article reviews selected issues related to the use of Big Data in the industry. The aim is to define the potential scope and forms of using large data sets in manufacturing companies. By systematically reviewing scientific and professional literature, selected issues related to the use of mass data analytics in production were analyzed. A definition of Big Data was presented, detailing its main attributes. The importance of mass data processing technology in the development of Industry 4.0 concept has been highlighted. Subsequently, attention was paid to issues such as production process optimization, decision making and mass production individualisation, and indicated the potential for large volumes of data. As a result, conclusions were drawn regarding the potential of using Big Data in the industry.
Biophotonics for Biofuel Upgradation
Authors: Rana Gopinath , Mandal Tanusri
Published: September 2017

Experimental studies have been made to find out Cyanobacterias’ biophotonical response in gaseous-fuelation and carbon dioxide fixation during photo-anaerobic digestion. A new horizontal type photo-bioreactor has been designed by using environment hazard plastic bottles and it works ideally for anoxygenic cyanobacterial growth. Through ‘V3-metagenomics’ of 16S rRNA gene sequencing by paired-end Illumina MiSeq and downstream analysis by QIIME program, we have identified anaerobic cyanobacteria, represent the orders YS2 and Streptophyta. OTUs have been identified by aligning against Greengenes and Silva databases, separately. The flame temperature of the fuel gas is 860°C and the percent-content of carbon dioxide (CO2) is 17.6%.
Reciprocal Allocation Method in Service Departments. The Case of a Production Enterprise
Authors: Papaj Ewelina
Published: September 2017

The main aim of this article is to indicate the role of reciprocal allocation method in the process of costs calculation. In the environment of nowadays companies, often taking very complex organisational forms, the existence of service departments becomes of great importance. Although, as far as management accounting processes are concerned, which lead to identifying the product cost, the service departments’ costs come out to be of minor importance. This article means to prove that the service departments’ costs and their reliable settlement are a desirable source of information about the products. This work consists of two parts. First of them features theoretical considerations and a critical analysis of subject literature. In the latter part, the service departments’ costs calculation will be presented, basing on reciprocal services in a production enterprise from chemical industry.
Operational and Strategic Controlling Tools in Microenterprises – Case Study
Authors: Konsek-Ciechońska Justyna
Published: September 2017

Globalisation and increasing requirements of the environment cause the executives and supervisors to search for more and more perfect solutions, allowing them to streamline and improve the effectiveness of company operations. One of such tools, used more and more often, is controlling, the role of which has substantially increased in the recent years. It is already implemented not only in large companies with foreign capital, but also in increasingly smaller entities, which begin to notice the positive effects of the implications of the principles and tools of controlling - both operational and strategic. The purpose of the article is to demonstrate the practical side of controlling tools that can be used for the purposes of operations conducted by microenterprises.
From Subprime and Eurozone Crisis with Full Speed into the Next Financial Crisis
Authors: Strašek Sebastjan
Published: September 2017

This paper offers an analysis of the road from subprime and eurozone crisis to the elements of a new systemic crisis. Our aim is to research common issues that accompany each of these crises and to explore elements that hint that the financial systems are moving toward a new crisis. By holding short-term interest rates near zero, the central banks have encouraged malinvestment and speculation. Fuelling the bubble is the fear of missing out on trade. We find that actual events and movements on security markets follow a typical pattern, which indicates a serious threat for the next financial crisis. We also find enough signs that old crises lessons haven’t been learned.
CSR EMAT Is an Opportunity for Responsible Decision-Making
Authors: Rodek Berkes Nora
Published: September 2017

Corporate social responsibility is an expected behaviour in Western countries, but the approach still does not have a clear interpretation in Hungary. As a result of the increasing prestige of the CSR approach, socially responsible thinking and action also are expected from the companies operating in Hungary. Company executives carry out CSR activities in many cases – but not consciously. The objective of this research therefore was the development of a guidance and evaluation criteria that can support managers in responsible decision-making and applying the CSR approach to a strategic level. On the other hand, this management tool allows the measurement of CSR excellence in companies; therefore, they become comparable in their CSR performance, which offers opportunities for further research. The study presents the development of CSR EMAT and the results achieved through the measurements.
Ants of the Peloponnese, Greece (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Borowiec Lech , Salata Sebastian
Published: September 2017

This paper relates to material obtained during two field trips to the Peloponnese in 2013 and 2016. With the inclusion of some hitherto unpublished ant material, it gives new records from a total of 92 sampling localities. 129 species (including morphospecies not attributed to any known taxon) of ants have been recorded from the Peloponnese (southern Greece), 27 of which have been recorded from this region for the first time. Lasius reginae and 5 other morphospecies attributed only to species complexes are new to Greece.
On the prediction of X-ray dose deviations and the influence of CT scan protocols
Authors: Du Plessis Freek CP
Published: September 2017

Patients undergoing computerized tomography (CT) scans for tumor localization and treatment planning are frequently scanned using pre-set customized exposure protocols for optimal imaging of different anatomical sites. The question arises if these scanning protocols will produce a deviation in the Hounsfield number for a given tissue that can afterwards be used to predict the resulting dose calculation deviation due to this. The question is also if the deviation in the Hounsfield number of a tissue is large enough to affect dose calculation clinically significant.

A study was devised in which a RMI phantom was scanned with five different scanning protocols and two CT beam energies at 120 and 135 kV. To assess the effect of insert configuration, Hounsfield number measurements were repeated for high density RMI inserts in the center and outer rings in the phantom. For each material insert the standard deviation of the Hounsfield number was calculated. To assist in dose prediction a series of DOSXYZnrc Monte Carlo calculations were carried out for beam qualities between 6 and 16 MV for a range of Hounsfield numbers calculated for bone and water. This provided information on how the depth dose varied as a function of Hounsfield number variation. Lastly, a series of treatment plans were setup for absorbed dose calculation using the RMI insert electron densities vs Hounsfield relations measured above. The absorbed dose of corresponding plans with the largest Hounsfield number variation were subtracted to find the dose discrepancies.

It was found that the dose discrepancies in tissue types could be indicated by the deviation of the Hounsfield number due to different scanning protocols. The calculated dose difference were in all cases within 3%.
Peer Effects and Youth Smoking in the European Global Youth Tobacco Survey
Authors: Nikaj Silda
Published: September 2017

This paper investigates the effect of peer smoking on individual smoking among youths in 10 countries that participated in the European Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS). I control for endogeneity in school selection and unobserved school-level characteristics through the use of school fixed-effects. I use instrumental variables to address the simultaneity in peer and individual behaviours. Identification arises by comparing students in different classes within the same school. On average, an increase in the share of classmates who smoke by 10 percentage points increases the probability that an individual in that class will smoke by 3 to 6.9 percentage points. The results imply that any policy intervention such as anti-smoking messages, smoking bans, or higher cigarette prices will be even more cost-effective because of the social multiplier effect of peers – policies affecting some individuals in a group will generate spillovers to others through the peer effect.
Determinants of the Shadow Economy in the Czech Regions: A Region-Level Study
Authors: Buček Jakub
Published: September 2017

This paper investigates the size and development of the shadow economy in the Czech Republic on the state-level base over the 2005-2014 period. The multiple indicators multiple causes (MIMIC) model is used to assess the estimation of the shadow economy size. I investigate how labour market, number of people with at least one distraint, and the burden of taxation might contribute to the existence of the shadow economy. While the former two are important determinants of the shadow economy, I find no evidence to prove any significant impact of distraints on the shadow economy size. As for the country’s particular regions, I find that those surrounding big cities, especially Prague, have, on average, a smaller shadow economy size, whereas regions in the borderlands (former Sudetenland) suffer from a larger shadow economy.
Cardiac intraventricular mass from lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Grados-Saso Daniel , Lacambra Isaac , Callejo Ana , Pinillos Guillermo , Gayán Jara , Cueva Francisco
Published: September 2017

We present a sole intracardiac mass with no other cardiac involvement in a patient with metastatic lung cancer disease. This mass can be well characterized by advanced 3D echocardiography and echocardiographic contrast.
Investigate the influence of halloysite and activated carbon mixtures in phytostabilization of Pb-contaminated soil with Lolium perenne L.
Authors: Radziemska Maja
Published: September 2017

A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of halloysite and activated carbon mixtures on the biomass and distribution of macronutrients (Mg, K, Ca, Na, P) in ryegrass grown in Pb-contaminated soil. The soil was spiked with four different levels of lead contamination, i.e. 0 (control), 200, 400, 800 mg·kg−1 were applied in an analytical grade Pb(NO3)2 solution mixed thoroughly with the soil. Raw halloysite (3%) and activated carbon (1% relative to soil mass) mixtures were used to reduce the effect of soil lead contamination. Ryegrass of the Bokser variety was harvested after 42 days, and soil samples were collected for laboratory tests. The mixture of sorbents applied in the experiment which turned out to be most effective at doses of lead amounting to 400 and 800 mg·kg−1 of soil, with the increase in the yield of ryegrass being the highest. Increasing contamination of soil with lead in the series without the mixture of sorbents increased the contents of phosphorus, sodium, calcium and magnesium in ryegrass. The applied mixture of halloysite and activated carbon changed the macronutrient concentration in ryegrass, with the greatest changes found in that of potassium and sodium.
Studies on resilient modulus value from cyclic loading tests for cohesive soil
Authors: Sas Wojciech , Głuchowski Andrzej , Miturski Maciej
Published: September 2017

In this article the cyclic CBR test as a reference method in determination of resilient modulus (Mr) is confronted with results of cyclic triaxial and unconfined uniaxial cyclic test. The main idea of conducted experiments is establish relationship between cyclic loading tests in testing of natural subsoil and road materials. The article shows results of investigation on cohesive soil, namely sandy silty clay, commonly problematic soil in Poland. The results of repeated loading triaxial test resilient modulus were displayed in order to compare them with cyclic CBR test results by using the Mr–Ө model. Some empirical correlation between factors obtained from triaxial test or uniaxial unconfined cyclic test and cyclic CBR test was introduced here. The behavior of resilient modulus was also examined in this paper.
Sunbed Use Among Belgrade High School Students
Authors: Škiljević Dušan , Srećković Lucija
Published: September 2017

Introduction: The incidence of melanoma has been increasing worldwide. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and sunbeds are the major risk factors for the development of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Excessive UV exposure during childhood and adolescence increases the probablity of skin cancer in adulthood. The objective of this study was to analyze the exposure to artificial UV radiation using sunbeds among Belgrade high school students.

Material and Methods: The study was conducted using a questionnaire among 549 3rd and 4th grade students in 4 Belgrade high schools. The questionnaire included 10 questions on the sunbed use, attitudes, and general knowledge about effects of UV radiation from sunbeds. Statistical analysis assessed the frequency rate and relative frequency as methods of descriptive statistics.

Results: A total of 39% of participants had used a sunbed at least once, and 38% plan on using it in the future. When asked at what age they first used a sunbed, 45.66% of high school students stated that it was at the age of 13 or 14. Most adolescents have used a sunbed less than 5 times (38%), whereas 8% of them used it over 30 times.

Conclusion: The awareness of the risks associated with UV exposure in sunbeds is not at a satisfying level among Belgrade high school students. Educational and legislative measures are necessary to protect this highly sensitive population and prevent malignant consequences.
A Red Nodule on the Cheek - a Case Report
Authors: Bombonato Caterina , Piana Simonetta , Longo Caterina
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, very aggressive neuroectodermal tumor of the skin typically located on sun-exposed areas and frequently found in Caucasian men between 70 and 80 years of age.

Case Report: We present a case of a 86-year-old woman who was referred to our Skin Cancer Unit with a red and well defined nodule located on her left commissure of the mouth, that grew during a couple of months and was completely asymptomatic. Dermoscopic examination revealed a reddish background with linear and arborizing irregular vessels, some out of focus vessels and whitish areas. The lesion was excised, histological examination showed that the tumor was hypercellular and composed of round epithelial elements with large nuclei and scant cytoplasm suggestive of MCC. Immunohistochemical stains confirmed a diffuse positivity with cytokeratin (CK) 2 chromogranin, and synaptophysin; CK7 and thyroid transcription factor-1(TTF-1) were negative. Sentinel lymph node biopsy was done, resulting negative for neoplastic cells, and computed tomography (CT) of the chest, abdomen and pelvis showed no distant metastasis. Adjuvant radiotherapy on the tumor site and on homolateral neck lymph nodes was also done.

Conclusion: Merkel cell carcinoma presents as an asymptomatic, rapidly growing nonpigmented nodule without specific characteristics. Dermoscopic features may help to distinguish MCC from other similar tumors: linear irregular vessels, milky pink areas, architectural disorders and structureless areas, even if not specific, when present are strongly suggestive of MCC. Wide excision with 2 cm margins with adjuvant radiotherapy is the treatment of choice in high-risk primary tumors, while sentinel lymph node biopsy and computed tomography scans are necessary for early diagnosis of metastatic disease.
The Role of EU Innovation Policies in the Sustainable Development of the Energy Sector
Authors: Sirbu Olesea , Crudu Rodica , Ignatov Augustin
Published: September 2017

In the present conditions when the demographic pressure upon the environment is higher than ever, the humanity faces the challenge of sustainability. Namely the sustainability of human activities is important and nothing can assure it better than sustainable energy supplies. The European Union is the leading global power in terms of adjusting its policies to increase innovation to assure a sustainable growth of its energy sector as a key to an advanced economic system. The present research focuses on the impact of European Union policies on the sustainable development of its energy sector by analyzing quantitatively and qualitatively various indicators intended to offer a throughout insight. The results obtained focus on the identification of the main innovation paradigms; the description of the main modern environmental challenges, especially in the energy domain; the determination of the relation between innovation and energy sustainability, and its analysis at the level of European Union.
The Outcomes of the Romanian Educational System and Economic Indicators
Authors: Jivan Alexandru , Șipoş Ciprian Alexandru , Weisz Janeta
Published: September 2017

The paper highlights some important correlations between the outcomes of the Romanian educational system and certain key indicators concerning the Romanian economy. The indicators are selected on the basis of the logic correlations and considering the limits of available data. The time-lag models were used because the macroeconomic effects of the factorial indicators considered as determinants on dependent variables cannot be usually detected in the same year. The results allowed interesting discussions concerning the Romanian education system and its funding-related evolutions in the last decade.
La traduction n’est pas qu’une traduction. Quelques propos sur la traduction d’une écriture fragmentaire bilingue: Cuvântul nisiparniţă (Le Mot sablier) de Dumitru Tsepeneag
Authors: Lungu-Badea Georgiana
Published: September 2017

Translation is not mere translation. A few remarks on the translation of a fragmentary bilingual text: Cuvântul nisiparniță (Le Mot sablier/The Hourglass Word) by Dumitru Tsepeneag

The present paper will focus on the translation of a fragmentary bilingual writing. Interested both in his own monolingualism and in the monolingualism of the other (see Derrida 1996, and here mainly the monolingualism of the French reader who should constitute a kind of pseudo-source-audience3), Dumitru Tsepeneag turns his own bilingualism into a topic in his book Cuvîntul nisiparniță (published first in translation as Le Mot sablier in 1984). “This (im)possible appropriation becomes the generating reason of the creation and in the creation, then in the self-translation”; a “writing experience” where the writer cultivates his bilingualism and his biculturalism, and sheds light on the process of translation from a perspective that is at least double: that of the translated42 and self-translated writer, but also that of the translator-writer” (Lungu-Badea 2008, 20). What translation strategy would be appropriate for a book that begins in Romanian and ends in French? We could claim that its destiny is to show how one language replaces another and, consequently, renders translation useless for bilingual users. If this is but an argument for the counter-translation, the French translation, published by the P.O.L. publishing house, does not challenge it. It could respect neither “the psychological intention of the author” (Ladmiral 2006, 140), nor the “semantic intention of the text” (Ladmiral and Lipiansky 1995, 53).
Contrainte et réécriture-création dans la traduction des Exercices de style de Raymond Queneau
Authors: Rădulescu Valentina
Published: September 2017

Our study presents a comparative analysis of selected texts from several translations of Queneau’s Exercices de style: the Romanian version (a collective work coordinated by Romulus Bucur), the English version (Barbara Wright) and the Italian one (Umberto Eco) that illustrate the variable degrees of difficulties in translating. The analysis is meant to confirm our research hypothesis: though disruptive and often hardly surmountable, translation constraint does not stifle translator’s creativity or his fidelity toward the original style; on the contrary, it stimulates the translational process and fosters the rewriting-creation.