bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estados electrónicos de puntos cuánticos piramidales y cónicos
Authors: Gil Corrales John Alexander , Morales Aramburo Alvaro Luis , Duque Echeverri Carlos Alberto
Published: December 2018

Los estados electrónicos confinados en un punto cuántico de GaAs, de forma piramidal y cónica, se han investigado a través del enfoque cuasi analítico válido para ángulos pequeños y el método exacto de elementos finitos para incluir todos los ángulos y alturas. Se han reportado los resultados de la energía de confinamiento en función de la forma y el tamaño de ambas estructuras y finalmente se han comparado los valores aproximados con los exactos provenientes del método de elementos finitos.
Kelaziman Kesalahan Berbahasa dalam Menulis Laporan Penelitian
Authors: Hardjono Nyoto
Published: December 2018

Language is the main media to deliver an idea. The mistakes in the language used will produce the wrong idea. To avoid the wrong idea, it is not allowed to make a mistake in using the language. The fact found in PGSD – FKIP UKSW bachelor degree students’ experiment report shows there are lots of repeating mistakes. The common mistakes found in grammatical aspect, such as: 1) The mistakes in differentiating between preposition and prefix; 2) the mistakes in forming words, and 3) the mistakes in constructing sentences. Common mistakes happen in spelling, especially in writing the title and notes, and the last is in the diction aspect. The common mistakes in diction usually happen with the use of inefficient words, improper word meaning, and the use of function words.
Penerapan Model Discovery Learning Berbantuan Media Audio Visual untuk Meningkatkan Literasi Sains Siswa Kelas 5 SD
Authors: Niswatuzzahro Vivi , Fakhriyah Fina , Rahayu Ratri
Published: December 2018

Based on the results of pre-cycle test and observation of the fifth-grade students at Unggulan Muslimat NU Kudus Elementary School, it`s found that the average students` science literacy is low.This study attempts to discover the improvement of Unggulan Muslimat NU Kudus Elementary School fifth grade students` science literacy when apply discovery learning assisted by audio visual media. This study is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) that conducted in Unggulan Muslimat NU Kudus Elementary School, in even semester in the academic year of 2017/2018. The subjects of this research are the researcher as the teacher model and the fifth grade students that consists of 29 students. This study held for two cycles, there are two meeting in every cycle and consist of four phases: plan, action, observe, dan reflection. The independent variable of this study is discovery learning assisted by audio visual media, and the dependent variable is science literacy. Data collections of this study are science literacy test for knowledge aspect (cognitive), and observation for science literacy of attitude aspect (affective), competention aspect (psychomotor). This study is qualitative and quantitative descriptive analysis. The result of this study shows that, there is enhancement of science literacy of the fifth grade students of Unggulan Muslimat NU Kudus Elementary School in the force material, between first cycle 71,9% and improved in the second cycle 81,5% with high category. This results shows that the application of discovery learning model assisted with audio visual can improve science literacy of the fifth grade students of Unggulan Muslimat NU Kudus Elementary School.
Evaluation of sutureless scrotal castration for pediatric and juvenile dogs
Authors: Miller Kirk P. , Rekers Wendi L. , DeTar Lena G. , Blanchette Jacqueline M. , Milovancev Milan
Published: December 2018

OBJECTIVE To determine complication rates associated with sutureless scrotal castration (SLSC) performed in a large number of pediatric and juvenile dogs and investigate whether procedure duration differed from that of traditional prescrotal castration (TPSC).

DESIGN Prospective case series and clinical trial.

ANIMALS 400 shelter-owned dogs that underwent SLSC and 18 shelter-owned dogs that underwent TPSC between 2 and 5 months of age.

PROCEDURES In the first phase of the study, SLSC was performed for 400 dogs, which were monitored for ≥ 24 hours after surgery to identify surgery-related complications such as hemorrhage, signs of pain, self-trauma, swelling, and dermatitis at the incision site. In the second phase, the durations of 18 SLSC and 18 TPSC procedures were measured and compared.

RESULTS No hemorrhage-related complications were identified in any dog during SLSC in the first phase. Complications were all minor and self-limiting and included peri-incisional dermatitis (9/400 [2.3%]), skin bruising (4/400 [1.0%]), and swelling (1/400 [0.3%]). No self-trauma was observed for any dog, nor did any dog require additional analgesic treatment after surgery. Procedure duration was significantly briefer for SLSC (mean ± SD, 1.0 ± 0.2 minutes) than for TPSC (3.5 ± 0.4 minutes).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that SLSC as evaluated was safe and significantly faster than TPSC when performed in healthy 2- to 5-month-old dogs. The SLSC technique has the potential to improve morbidity and mortality rates as well as financial costs associated with castration, particularly in high-quality, high-volume spay and neuter programs.
Long-term outcome following surgical and radiation treatment of vertebral angiomatosis in a cat
Authors: Hans Eric C. , Dudley Robert M. , Watson Adam T. , Chalkley Mark , Foss Kari D. , Bancroft Ann , Prescott Deborah M.
Published: December 2018

CASE DESCRIPTION A 2-year-old 5.2-kg (11.4-lb) neutered male domestic shorthair cat was referred because of a 6-week history of progressive paraparesis.

CLINICAL FINDINGS Neurologic examination revealed moderate ambulatory paraparesis with marked spinal hyperesthesia at the thoracolumbar junction. The lesion was localized to the T3-L3 spinal cord segment. Clinicopathologic testing, thoracic radiography, and abdominal ultrasonography revealed no abnormalities to explain the observed clinical signs. Advanced spinal imaging with MRI revealed an extradural right-lateralized mass originating from the L2 vertebral pedicle and causing severe spinal cord compression.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Surgical decompression was achieved by performance of a right-sided hemilaminectomy at L2. Histologic examination of biopsy samples obtained from the mass revealed an ill-defined zone of mature vascular proliferation extending through the preexisting vertebral bone, consistent with vertebral angiomatosis. After surgical recovery, adjuvant radiation therapy was initiated with a total dose of 48 Gy administered in 16 fractions of 3 Gy each over a 3-week period. Neurologic function rapidly improved to full ambulation with only minimal monoparesis of the right pelvic limb. Results of neurologic and MRI examination performed 26 months after surgery indicated no change in neurologic status or evidence of recurrence.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE To the authors' knowledge, this report was the first to describe the long-term outcome for vertebral angiomatosis in a cat. Surgical decompression and radiation therapy provided an excellent outcome in this case. Vertebral angiomatosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for any young cat with thoracolumbar myelopathy secondary to a mass associated with the vertebral pedicle.
Solutions for the automation of operational monitoring activities for agricultural and forestry tasks
Authors: Gallo Raimondo , Carabin Giovanni , Vidoni Renato , Sacco Pasqualina , Mazzetto Fabrizio
Published: December 2018

An innovative approach for the automation of operational monitoring activities in agricultural and forestry tasks is described and discussed in this article. This approach can be considered as a solution for Precision Agriculture and Precision Forestry applications and can be used as an information and communication technology (ICT) tool for the management aims by a variety of agricultural and forestry companies. The aim of the proposed concept is to develop a system, composed of both hardware and software units, with the ability to collect and manage operative raw data and then to translate them into operational information that will be used in decision-making processes. All the procedures will be carried out automatically, in order to ensure an objective compilation of the field activity register. Thus, the entrepreneur will have all the operative information automatically updated in a dedicated database system. All the obtained documents can then be used for certification and traceability processes, if required by the procedural guideline, as well as to satisfy any other management tasks, including the estimation of the actual operative costs of the farm.
Occurrence of chemicals with known or suspected endocrine disrupting activity in drinking water, groundwater and surface water, Austria 2017/2018
Authors: Brueller Werner , Inreiter Norbert , Boegl Thomas , Rubasch Martin , Saner Samim , Humer Franko , Moche Wolfgang , Schuhmann Andrea , Hartl Werner , Brezinka Christoph , Wildt Ludwig , Allerberger Franz
Published: December 2018

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can cause adverse effects in individuals and their offspring. In 2017 and 2018, we performed a survey on representative samples of Austrian drinking water (n = 20), groundwater (n = 22), and surface water (n = 12), the latter including bathing water (n = 5) and rivers (n = 7). We analyzed 54 samples for 28 parameters, including estrogens, polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs), phthalates, perfluoroalkyl substances, alkylphenols, bisphenol A and triclosan, correlating to 1512 measurements. In 39 of the 54 samples (72.2%), at least one endocrine disrupting or potentially disrupting chemical was found at or above the limit of quantification. None of the samples yielded estrogens or triclosan in detectable levels. Bisphenol A (BPA) was detected in 4 (20.0%) samples of drinking water, in 1 (4.5%) groundwater sample, and in 1 (20%) bathing water sample, with a maximum concentration of 0.021 μg/l found in one drinking water. Two drinking water samples yielded BPA in concentrations above the limit value of 0.01 μg/l, recently proposed by the European Commission for drinking water. Therefore, the ultimate public health goal must be to further reduce and restrict the production of EDCs and therewith decrease and eventually eliminate the contamination of drinking water resources.
Heat rectification in He II counterflow in radial geometries
Authors: Saluto Lidia , Jou David , Mongiovì Maria Stella
Published: December 2018

We consider heat rectification in radial flows of turbulent helium II, where heat flux is not described by Fourier's law, but by a more general law. This is different from previous analyses of heat rectification, based on such law. In our simplified analysis we show that the coupling between heat flux and the gradient of vortex line density plays a decisive role in such rectification. Such rectification will be low at low and high values of the heat rate, but it may exhibit a very high value at an intermediate value of the heat rate. In particular, for a given range of values for the incoming heat ow, the outgoing heat flow corresponding to the exchange of internal and external temperatures would be very small. This would imply difficulties in heat removal in a given range of temperature gradients.
Numerical Study of Flow-Induced Vibrations of Multiple Flexibly-Mounted Cylinders in Triangular Array
Authors: Upnere S.
Published: December 2018

The paper presents the numerical study of vibrating multiple flexibly-mounted cylinders in a triangular rod bundle. Behavioural trends of six different clusters of oscillating rods have been analysed. The influence of neighbour cylinders on the central cylinder oscillation characteristics is analysed. Finite volume solver of open source computational fluid dynamics is used to calculate the fluid flow in the channel with the cylinder array. Built-in six degree-of-freedoms solver is utilised to simulate cylinder movement. Oscillating cylinders have two degrees-of-freedom. The obtained results are compared with numerical results available in the literature.
Full-scale Test of an Unreinforced Concrete Dome Plug for the Spent Nuclear Fuel Repository
Authors: Malm Richard
Published: December 2018

In the planned Swedish repository for spent nuclear fuel, plugs are designed to close the deposition tunnels. The outer part of these plugs consists of a concrete dome made with self-compacting-concrete, designed to have low pH to reduce negative effects on the bentonite clay buffer. A full-scale test has been performed to evaluate the performance of the plug, to test the installation and to verify underlying design assumptions. In this paper, the behaviour of the concrete dome is evaluated based on measurements, from casting the concrete until it was subjected to 4 MPa hydrostatic water pressure.
Dynamic Measurements for Determining Poisson’s Ratio of Young Concrete
Authors: Ahmed Lamis
Published: December 2018

Knowledge of the elastic properties of concrete at early age is often a pre-requisite for numerical calculations. This paper discusses the use of a laboratory technique for determining Poisson’s ratio at early concrete age. A non-destructive test set-up using the impact resonance method has been tested and evaluated. With the method, it has been possible to obtain results already at 7 hours of concrete age. Poisson’s ratio is found to decrease sharply during the first 24 hours to reach a value of 0.08 and then increase to approximately 0.15 after seven days.
Filler and Water Reducer Effects on Sedimentation, Bleeding and Zeta-Potential of Cement Paste
Authors: Peng Ya , Pedersen Bård , Ng Serina , de Weerdt Klaartje , Jacobsen Stefan
Published: December 2018

Bleeding and sedimentation quantify the stability of fresh cement paste, whereas the addition of fillers and water reducers affect the stability. The effect of various types of fillers and water reducers was investigated by measuring bleeding, hydrostatic pressure and electroacoustic zeta-potential. Depending on their characteristics and use, fillers can improve stability by reducing sedimentation rate and bleeding. The combined effects of fillers and water reducers on the sedimentation rates, quantified as time-dependent hydrostatic pressure changes (dp/dt) in fresh matrix, correspond to their effects on zeta-potentials. The influence of the water reducers on sedimentation and bleeding exceed that of filler type.
Continuous Preventive Bridge Maintenance of Swedish Municipalities – A Survey on Common Practice
Authors: Andersson Louise , Silfwerbrand Johan , Selander Anders , Trägårdh Jan
Published: December 2018

As part of a report [1] on continuous preventive bridge maintenance, a survey was conducted with Swedish municipalities. The survey’s focus was on bridges and preventive maintenance, as well as the demands and performance control stated by the municipalities. The preventive maintenance the survey focused on was the annual maintenance concerning washing, cleaning of drainage system and removal of vegetation. The survey showed both similarities and differences within the municipalities but also in comparison with Swedish Transport Agency (STA).
Student Apprenticeships of Course-of-Study and Diploma-Related Types as an Element Used for Raising the Professional Competences of Engineers Educated for the Needs of Maritime and Inland Shipping Industry
Authors: Wolnowska Anna E. , Szabrońska Aleksandra , Matuszak Zbigniew , Stopka Ondrej
Published: December 2018

The purpose of the underlying paper is to highlight the significance of specialist and diploma-related apprenticeships at the bachelor degree studies provided by the technical university. The evaluation of the quality of apprenticeships was conducted among the students of the Economy, Engineering and Transport Faculty of the Maritime University of Szczecin (Poland), for the study directions Production Management and Engineering (Polish: ZiP), Logistics (L) and Transport (T). The research methodology was based on questionnaire form, statistical analysis of results reliability and the analysis of literature. The results of the conducted research unequivocally indicated a need to introduce changes to the organisation of the apprenticeships, as this area determines the quality of engineers practical education and influences their professional competences.
Selected Problems of Ship Safety in the Process of Docking
Authors: Kaup Magdalena , Łozowicka Dorota , Blatnický Miroslav
Published: December 2018

This article concerns safety during ship docking operations. It presents its specificity for this type of operation, describes selected problems that may occur during its operation and identifies the main factors initiating extraordinary situations. The article presents 4 examples of accidents during docking operations in recent years. Cause and effect analysis was carried out and presented graphically. This analysis illustrated the occurring errors in the safety system during the docking operation.
Dimensioning of Danger Zones Emerging as a Domino Effect of An Lng Explosion for Industrial Plants Located in the Vicinity of Inland Transport Fairways
Authors: Kalbarczyk-Jedynak Agnieszka , Ślączka Wojciech
Published: December 2018

The development of new technologies, the use and transport of LNG increases the number of investments that may mutually affect their safety on account of a domino effect. It means that a breakdown caused by one of the business entities may contribute to the escalation of a problem through thermal energy emission in another entity. The energy absorbed in an adjacent technological process line may cause irreparable damage despite the security measures employed. When planning an investment of a pioneering nature, one ought to consider not only the modern technologies used in a newly designed installation, but one must also pay attention to the direct neighbourhood of other industrial plants and the planned infrastructure, e.g. for gas transport or transhipment. Such a synergistic approach guarantees the safety of undertaken activities and ensures a stable, breakdown-free operation of all the business entities located in a given area. This paper discusses the issue of mutual influence exerted by two independent entities located within a small distance of one another, i.e. salt processing plant and a vessel transporting an LNG mixture. The authors considered a situation in which a breakdown occurs in an industrial plant and in which the released energy causes damage to a tank shell of an LNG carrying vessel on an inland fairway. In the examined situation the types of risks arising from LNG tank shell damage on-board an inland vessel were defined and the dimensions of the resulting danger zones were determined in a function of concentration of individual LNG components as well as the pressure and temperature generated inside the tank. The shape of the tank was also taken into consideration, since it affects fractioning in the course of the release of the substance accumulated in it. The analysis was conducted on the basis of DNV Phast 7.11 software.
The Influence of External Factors on Hazards in the Transport Processes of Soybean Meal
Authors: Drzewieniecka Beata , Drzewieniecki Jan , Blatnický Miroslav
Published: December 2018

The influence of external factors on changes in the soybean meal quality features has an important meaning in the emergence of hazards during the transport processes of this cargo. Soybean meal is one of the most frequently used components of fodder mixtures. Due to its inherent properties, it is classified as special cargoes. Maintaining the quality of soybean meal during transport processes depends on storage, handling and transport conditions. The main external factor included in the study was humidity. Transport-technological quality features were distinguished: kinetic angle of repose, size of particles, bulk density, porosity. The article presents the results of research on soybean meal and its separated fractions. There was presented humidity influence on changes in significant features for this cargo. Type and range of changes in the distinguishing features of soybean meal were determined in the given stages of the transport chain under the influence of humidity. The risk was assessed in the transport processes of soybean meal. A correlation was determined between changes of individual features and water content in soybean meal changing as a result of air humidity. It was found that humidity of the ambient air in which transport processes occur and size of grain particles of soybean meal have a significant impact on changes in transport-technological quality features.
The Method of Energy-Efficiency Investigations of the Newly Produced Marine Fuels Through an Application of the Laboratory Diesel Engine
Authors: Korczewski Zbigniew
Published: December 2018

The article deals with one of the scientific issue solved within frames of the research project financed by Voivodeship Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management in Gdansk, namely, in particular, the method of energy investigations of the self-ignition engine in conditions of its supply with a non-standard (modified) marine fuel. The representative results of engine tests worked out on the especially built laboratory test bed have been presented. They aimed to elaborate energy profiles of a single-cylinder four-stroke Diesel engine in the form of Sankey diagrams of energy flows representing the most efficient and effective manner for the verification of a different kind of the modified marine fuels introduced on market. It is expected that the final results of the project will be interesting for their producers as well as the ship-owners of the operated ships, and also for the offices of sea administration as well as the inspectorates of environment protection.
Operational Characteristic of Selected Marine Turbounits Powered by Steam from Auxiliary Oil-Fired Boilers
Authors: Behrendt Cezary , Stoyanov Rumen
Published: December 2018

This paper presents characteristic values and operational parameters of two selected marine auxiliary steam turbine units such as efficiency, and steam consumption per unit or per hour. For the purpose of the analysis, the cargo turbine pumps and turbogenerator have been selected. The characteristic values and operational parameters have been determined using the operational tests results for the turbounits installed on oil tankers at various power loads.
Redundancy as a Way Increasing Reliability of Ship Power Plants
Authors: Tarelko Wieslaw
Published: December 2018

One of key ways of assuring a high level of reliability of a ship power plant is to design redundancy of its structural elements, for example redundancy of prime drivers, drivelines etc. This paper deals with issues related to the redundancy as a way increasing dependability of the ship power and propulsion systems. Especially, fundamental characteristics of dependability, major design strategies influencing the reliability, and types of redundancies related to ship power and propulsion systems are presented.
Average Fuel Consumption by a Ship on a Sales Line in Statistical Weather Conditions
Authors: Szelangiewicz Tadeusz , Żelazny Katarzyna
Published: December 2018

During operation of the ship, fuel consumption and associated emissions are very important for economic and ecological reasons. The fuel consumption is greatly influenced by the choice of shipping route, weather conditions on these routes and engine control criteria. The article presents its own algorithm for forecasting ship operation parameters, including fuel consumption on selected shipping routes for average, statistical (seasonal) weather parameters occurring on these routes. It shows what factors have the main impact on fuel consumption and how you can affect fuel consumption during the cruise in changing weather conditions.
ERCP practice beyond the training period – bridging the gap between guidelines and real-life practice: a single operator experience of 679 procedures
Authors: Voiosu Theodor , Voiosu Andrei , Benguş Andreea , Mateescu Bogdan
Published: December 2018

Background
. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography has evolved significantly in recent years. The increase in complexity and range of applications has not been adequately reflected in an improvement of training methods for ERCP, with many endoscopists failing to meet required performance standards during their training period and limited available data on their performance immediately after completing training. We aimed to analyze the performance of an independent operator from a developing country after the completion of formal training with regard to procedure and patient-related outcomes.

Methods
. We conducted an observational study of ERCPs performed by a young endoscopist from a referral center. Data about the procedure, cannulation technique (including use of precut), trainee involvement and procedure-related outcomes was retrieved and analyzed from a prospectively maintained database on quality in ERCP (the QUASIE initiative).

Results
. Data from 679 consecutive ERCPs conducted or supervised by one endoscopist with < 200 independent procedures prior to the study period were included in the final analysis. Cannulation rates significantly improved over time, from 90% to 96% (p = 0.016). Use of precut techniques changed significantly over time, with an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease as overall cannulation rates improved. Trainee involvement was significantly associated with prolonged cannulation times (p = 0.003) and use of precut (p = 0.001), but did not impact on technical success or patient safety.

Conclusions
. Independent practice of ERCP after the training period is characterized by ongoing changes in technique, especially with regard to cannulation and use of precut, showing significant improvements in performance over time.
Metformin delivery using chitosan-capped gold nanoparticles in glioblastoma cell lines
Authors: Aldea Mihaela , Florian Ioan Stefan , Potara Monica , Soritau Olga , Nagy-Simon Timea , Kacso Gabriel
Published: December 2018

Introduction: Metformin (MET), an old anti-diabetic drug, has proven unexpected anti-glioblastoma effects, by impacting cell proliferation, migration and invasion. However, its remarkable anti-cancer efficacy is mainly limited to the use of high millimolar concentrations in in vitro studies, which are hard to be attained in the clinical setting. Aim: The aim of this paper was to synthetize gold nanoparticles loaded with MET and to test if an enhanced drug delivery via nanotechnology could overcome the limitations of small drug concentrations. Materials and Methods: Gold nanoparticles were functionalized with chitosan (GNPc) and loaded with 80 μM of MET. Their size, zeta potential and stability were characterized and their internalization within tumor cells was assayed through dark field microscopy. Three primary glioblastoma stem cell lines were treated with 5, 10 and 20 μg/mL concentrations of nanoparticles and irradiated. The anti-tumoral effect was evaluated through the MTT cell viability assay. Results: MET-GNPc are easily synthetized and have a positive zeta potential, spherical shape and a median size of 26 nm. MET-GNPc have an increased cell internalization and affect the viability of all three glioblastoma cell lines used compared to control and free MET. However, their anti-cancer effect is not statistically different when compared to GNPc, although a slight tendency to a better response may be observed. Conclusion:Despite an increased cell internalization, the small micromolar concentrations of metformin does not bring an additional benefit to chitosan-based GNPs. Novel delivery methods being able to carry a higher drug concentration of metformin should be tested.
Brain Abscess and Dental Infections: a review
Authors: Maraby-Salgado Johana , Hoz Samer S. , Narvaez-Rojas Alexis , Satyarthee Guru Dutta , Quintana-Pajaro Loraine , Pacheco-Hernandez Alfonso , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael
Published: December 2018

Odontogenic infections may cause brain abscesses. Although infrequent, infections can lead to development of aggressive brain lesions that may be life-threatening for patients. With the advent of new antibiotic treatments, dental abscesses appear to be under control but all patients with high risk of brain abscess should be assessed and treated properly. Hereby, we present an overview of the information available in the literature of the relationship between brain and dental abscesses.
Rectal migration of Ventriculo-peritonial shunt: a rare case report
Authors: Sharma Anand , Shukla Avdesh , Iyengar S.N.
Published: December 2018

Colonic perforation following ventriculoperitoneal shunt is a rare complication. The common treatment is to remove the perforating catheter and replace with new one. In this case report we reported a rare case of colonic perforation following VP shunt and its anal migration. We have discussed its pathogenesis, management strategy and review of literature.
A retrospective study of perioperative outcomes following surgery for brain tumors: objective assessment and risk factor evaluation in rural centre
Authors: Gautam Sachidanand , Piyush Ojha , Anubhav Sharma
Published: December 2018

Background: Extensive surgical resection remains nowadays the best treatment available for most brain tumours. Perioperative outcomes following surgery for brain tumors are an important indicator of the safety as well as efficacy of surgical intervention. The goal of this study was to review the results of surgical treatment in our Department, run by a single neurosurgeon, in order to quantify morbidity and mortality and determine predictive risk factors for each patient. Materials and Methods: A total of Three hundred patients undergoing various surgeries for brain tumors were analyzed. Routine surgical techniques and uniform antibiotic policy were used. Navigation advanced operating microscope/ intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring was not available. The endpoints assessed included immediate postoperative neurological status, neurological outcome at discharge, regional complications, systemic complications, overall morbidity, and mortality. Various risk factors assessed included clinicoepidemiological factors, tumor-related factors, and surgery-related factors. Results: Median age was 36.37 years. 74.3% had tumors larger than 4 cm. Neurological morbidity, and regional and systemic complications occurred in 14.3, 14.3, and 11.3%, respectively. Overall, major morbidity occurred in 14.3% and perioperative mortality rate was 3.3%. Conclusions: Our patients were younger and had larger tumors than were generally reported. Despite the unavailability of advanced intraoperative aids, we could achieve acceptable levels of morbidity and mortality rates. The knowledge of the complications rate in each particular neurosurgical department turns out essentially to provide the patient with tailored information about risks before surgery.
Impact of land use and geological conditions on selected physical soil properties in relation to the earthworm abundance and biomass along an altitudinal gradient in Slovakia
Authors: Varga Jozef , Kanianska Radoslava , Spišiak Ján
Published: December 2018

The aim of the study was to analyse the impact of land use and altitudinal gradient including geological conditions on selected soil physical properties with subsequent effect on earthworms as important soil organisms. The research was conducted at three study sites (Očová – OC, Tajov – TA, Liptovská Teplička – LT) situated in the different climatic and natural conditions of Slovakia each with 3 plots differing in land use (arable land - AL, permanent grasslands – PG, forest land – FL). During 2014 over two periods, we measured soil penetration resistance (PR) with total depth of the measurement (DP) and soil moisture (SM). Earthworms were hand sorted counted and weighed. We found out high variability of measured parameters conditioned by time, space (altitudinal gradient) and land use. PR values of all measurements ranged from 0.19 to 5.00 MPa, DP values from 0.02 to 0.80 m and soil moisture from 2 to 50%. Paired samples test confirmed differences between different land use types mainly between AL and FL plots. There were confirmed significant differences between three ecological gradients in all observed properties with one exception. Correlations among observed variables under different altitudinal gradients and land use types were found. The earthworm density and biomass was significantly higher in permanent grasslands compared to forest and arable land. In arable land, the earthworm density and biomass negatively correlated with the penetration resistance and positively with the depth of the total measurements. In permanent grasslands earthworm biomass positively correlated with soil moisture.
Insights on Consumer Online Purchase Decisions of Women’s Footwear
Authors: e Silva Susana Costa , Monteiro Adriana , Duarte Paulo
Published: December 2018

Shoes are probably one of the most difficult products to sell online due to the high need-for-touch (NFT) displayed: people need to experiment the product before buying it, more than in any other item. On another hand, women are more prone than men to buy fashion and apparel products through the web channel. This paper investigates the factors driving women consumers to shop footwear products online. A qualitative research method was used grounded on semi-structured, in-depth interviews that were conducted to corroborate the constructs defined in the proposed conceptual model namely: convenience, recreation, NFT and social e-shopping. The interviews were focused on the demand side to understand the female consumers’ perspective and on the top managers of women’s shoes companies representing the suppliers’ viewpoint. The results show that women highly appreciate the convenience that shopping shoes online provides as well as its recreational nature. The NFT also stands out in the shoe market context mainly due to the particularities related to shoe size. Additionally, social e-shopping was found not be as important for women as anticipated as they see social networks more as a communication platform for brands, and less as a factor that influences their predisposition to shop shoes online. On the suppliers’ side, the interviews revealed that managers believe in bloggers and social media influence and its consideration as part of the overall marketing strategy.
Spatial Distribution of Oil Spills at the Sea Surface in the Southeastern Baltic Sea According to Satellite Sar Data
Authors: Krek Elena V. , Kostianoy Andrey G. , Krek Alexander V. , Semenov Aleksander V.
Published: December 2018

Statistical analysis of the spatial distribution of oil spills detected using Synthetic Aperture Radars (SAR) in 2004-2015 at the sea surface in the Southeastern Baltic Sea was conducted. Number, area, and shape of oil pollution division between Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) of Poland, Russia, and Lithuania were estimated for the first time. The most polluted area of the Southeastern Baltic Sea is Russian EEZ, where 55% of the total amount of detected oil spills, and 52% of the total area of oil pollution were located. The average area of an oil spill detected within Territorial Sea (TS) and EEZ was estimated. Tail-shaped spills associated with oil discharge from the moving vessels are prevailed, and their amount and area within TS and EEZ were estimated.
The Air Cargo Carrying Potential of The Airbus A350-900XWB and Boeing 787-9 Aircraft on Their Ultra-Long-Haul Flights: A Case Study for Flights from San Francisco to Singapore
Authors: Baxter Glenn , Srisaeng Panarat , Wild Graham
Published: December 2018

The introduction of the Airbus A350-900 (A359) and the Boeing B787-9 (B789) have enabled airlines to operate ultra-long-range services. Using a mixed methods research design, this study has examined the air cargo-carrying potential of Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900XWB (A359) and United Airlines Boeing B787-9 (789) aircraft on their ultra-long-haul San Francisco to Singapore and the Singapore to San Francisco air routes. The qualitative data was analysed using document analysis, and the air cargo payload was modelled by simulation. The air cargo-carrying potential of the two aircraft types was significantly influenced by enroute weather. In the event of eastbound winds, the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900XWB air cargo payload was 16.9 tonnes and the United Airlines Boeing 787-9 was 11.5 tonnes, when these flights had a full passenger payload. In the case of westbound winds with a full passenger payload, the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900XWB air cargo payload was 13.1 tonnes and the United Airlines Boeing 787-9 was 7.9 tonnes. When there were no winds on the air routes, the Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900XWB offered 15.0 tonnes and the United Airline Boeing 787-9 offered 9.7 tonnes of air cargo payload, respectively.
Priority Transfer Management Algorithm, Based on Interaction of the Public Transport Dispatch Systems Information and Traffic Lights Control
Authors: Efimenko Dmitry , Bogumil Veniamin , Vlasov Vladimir , Demin Vasiliy , Akhterov Alexandr
Published: December 2018

The article is dedicated to the multi agent approach for urban public transport dispatch system to organize priority transfer management, based on interaction with traffic lights control system. The article deals with the issue of urban passenger transport priority transfer of signalized intersections. Priority transfer management algorithm developed by the authors based on interaction of traffic lights control and public transport dispatch systems. The authors considered the role of agents in interaction process of traffic lights control and public transport dispatch systems for implementation of the buses priority passage. Criterion for decision making taking into account savings and loses of time of all participants of traffic at the intersection. The results of simulation modelling of priority public transport passage a signalized intersection are presented
Demand Data Modelling for Microscopic Traffic Simulation
Authors: Savrasovs Mihails , Pticina Irina , Zemlyanikin Valery , Karakikes Ioannis
Published: December 2018

The current paper aim is to present the technique of demand data modelling for microscopic simulation of the traffic flows. Traffic microscopic simulation is a powerful decision supporting tool, which could be applied for a wide range of tasks. In a past microscopic traffic simulation was used to test local changes in transport infrastructure, but the growth of computers performance allows now to simulate wide-scale fragments of the traffic network and to apply more advanced traffic flow simulation approaches, like an example dynamic assignment (DA). The results, obtained in the frame of this research are part of the project completed for one of the shopping malls (Riga, Latvia). The goal of the project was to evaluate different development scenarios of the transport network to raise the accessibility of the shopping mall. The number of practical issues in the frame of this project pushed to develop a new technique to model the demand data for the simulation model. As a traffic flow simulation tool, the PTV VISSIM simulation software was applied. The developed model was based on dynamic assignment approach. To complete the simulation the demand data was represented in two forms: 1) OD matrix for regular traffic in the transport network; 2) trip-chain file for a description of the pass-by and targeted trips.
Le sujet poétique dans l’œuvre de Lǐ Hè et dans celle de Rimbaud
Authors: Milanović Vesna
Published: December 2018

As an attempt to compare Lǐ Hè, a Chinese poet from the Táng Dynasty, and the French 19th century poet Arthur Rimbaud (in spite of a total lack of any traceable historical, cultural and inter-textual connections), this paper focuses on linguistic and stylistic phenomena serving as a proof for a striking resemblance between the two authors. Thus the first part of the article deals with effects of focalization, a specific conception of the metaphor as well as the status of the lyrical subject, establishing a theoretical basis for the concrete comparison presented in the second part. The conclusion is concerned with the question if the poems of Lǐ Hè can be translated into French by ‛adopting‟ Rimbaud‟s poetic language.
Tanuki: The ‘Badger’ as Figure in Japanese Literature
Authors: Vrataner Markus
Published: December 2018

The tanuki, largely misjudged in the Western world as a badger, is in fact a wild dog native to East Asia. Especially in Japan, this animal not only is represented in the local fauna but furthermore stars in the traditional lore as a kind of fabulous creature. Endued, according to popular beliefs, with magical powers, the artful shape-shifter willingly scares men to entertain himself. Folk tales too identify him as a rapscallion or a tease, but then out of gratitude he may act like a benefactor as well. This ambivalence in the figure of the tanuki, which ranges over the spectrum from a terrifying beast through a sottish fraud to a loyal friend, seems to have made him a popular subject for Japanese writers up to the present day. The way in which the rich heritage from folklore has eventually found expression in modern literature is the central issue of the present paper.
Between Mainland and Island: Causes for Migration and the Way of Life of Chinese Mainland Migrant Workers in Bó’áo
Authors: Gumpenberger Elisabeth
Published: December 2018

This article presents the results of a case study conducted in Bó’áo, a small town on Hǎinán Island currently undergoing rapid transformation. Triggered by the founding of the Boao Forum for Asia, an unknown fishing village has turned into an important location for conferences and tourism. On the basis of Grounded Theory this case study focuses on migrant workers from mainland China, using qualitative semi-structured interviews in order to explore the causes behind this migration influx to Bó’áo. In addition, this paper investigates the way these migrants organise their lives in this small town by raising the question of social integration within the local society—a topic largely neglected in the general academic discourse in and on China. The results of this study show that the level of education determines both reasons for migration as well as the way the migrant workers organise their everyday lives and the way in which they interact with locals. This paper also scrutinises common concepts of integration, e.g. the need to acquire the language spoken by the majority.
Tolerance and Human Resources in Science and Technology in East Asia
Authors: Park Stephan Si-Hwan
Published: December 2018

This article tries to pursue three goals: first, how can a hard-to-define cultural concept such as tolerance in society be measured? Second, is it possible to draw conclusions about the tolerance level of a nation on the basis of an analysis of web search behaviour? And third, is there a relationship between the tolerance level in East Asian societies and their ability to attract highly qualified knowledge workers? Taking as its starting point Richard Florida’s claim that a high tolerance level in society represents an essential pull factor for attracting the most sought-after people in the world, this article analyses and interprets web search behaviour among Google users residing in Japan, Korea and China in order to identify issues related to tolerance in East Asia.
The Facilitation of Child Development in a Japanese Nursery School
Authors: Christina Ellensohn
Published: December 2018

This paper aims to explore the topic of facilitating children’s development in a Japanese day-care centre (hoikuen). The research is based on a case study with participant observation in the daycare facility Minami Ōsawa Nursery School in Tōkyō. After a short overview on preschool education in Japan and an introduction to Minami Ōsawa Nursery School, the three main topics of child development around the age of five years-cognitive, social-emotional and motor development- will be further explored. These three areas will be defined more precisely in the context of the selfproclaimed aims and daily routine of the hoikuen team. Furthermore the importance of a child’s autonomy is addressed.
On the Way to a Sustainable Energy Policy in Japan and South Korea
Authors: Schneeweiss Elisabeth
Published: December 2018

The aim of this paper is to examine the sustainability of Japan’s and South Korea’s energy policies. For the analysis, categories framed by Holgar Rogall for identifying a sustainable energy policy were used. Using official data from the UN and government authorities of both countries as well as secondary literature, a comparison of international goals and legal norms and an analysis of developments in energy policy since 1990 were conducted. Their results show that Japan and South Korea pursue quite different energy policies. In more than half of the criteria, Japan can be seen as having a sustainable energy policy. The country still has to improve its use of energy sources, as it is too dependent on fossil fuels and thus needs to accelerate the development of renewable energies. South Korea’s energy policy, however, cannot yet be classified as sustainable. The government still rejects international commitments regarding climate change, a conclusion that is reflected in development since 1990: greenhouse gases rising at a high speed, coupled with low energy efficiency and dependence on fossil fuels. Despite sharing the same basic conditions, the energy policies of Japan and South Korea differ fundamentally.
Shadows Under a Rising Sun: Utopia and Its Dark Side in Kirino Natsuo’s Poritikon
Authors: Gregus Adam
Published: December 2018

Kirino Natsuo, arguably one of the most popular contemporary Japanese authors in Western markets (a number of her novels having been translated into English, German, French, Italian, Dutch or Spanish, among other languages) who is often being recognised as a mystery writer, only enjoys limited acknowledgment for the thematic breadth and genre diversity of her work. Such description is not only inaccurate (Kirino published her last true mystery novel in 2002), but also manifests itself in the limited and underdeveloped treatment of her work in Western academic writing. This paper deals with Kirino Natsuo’s 2011 novel Poritikon (Politikon) and its analysis within the greater context of Kirino’s work. A focus is put upon introducing the novel as utopian fiction with the aim to illustrate ways in which Kirino Natsuo utilises utopian genre patterns as well as how her utopia works to provide a commentary on contemporary Japan. The utopian theme present in Poritikon makes the novel a rather untypical entry in Kirino’s oeuvre (although not a unique one, since her novels Tōkyō-jima [Tokyo Island, 2008 1 ] and Yasashii otona [Gentle Adults, 2010] also work with elements of utopian/dystopian fiction) as well as within the Japanese literary scene in general, and provides an interesting argument for Kirino Natsuo as more than ‘just’ a mystery writer.