bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cities as command and control centres of the world economy: An empirical analysis, 2006–2015
Authors: Csomós György 
Published: November 2017

AbstractAs a result of their rapid economic growth, several powerful corporate giants have emerged in developing countries, especially in China, operating not only in the traditional manufacturing sector, but also in high-tech industries and finance. Major cities in developing countries have gradually become important command and control centres of the global economy, and have also become powerful enough to be in the same tier as major cities of developed countries around the world. In this paper, I examine the position of cities as command and control centres on the basis of the power of their headquartered corporations. The result shows that until 2012, New York, London, Tokyo, and Paris; i.e. the global cities, were the leading command and control centres. However, the gap between these global cities and Beijing gradually closed, and by 2015, the Chinese capital outranked all the global cities. The outstanding performance of Beijing-based corporations that operate in financial, energy, and construction services sectors is the driving force behind Beijing’s increasing global power. In addition, the leading position of the global cities as command and control centres has been threatened by the San Francisco-San Jose metropolitan region, a newly emerging economic hub in the United States.
Performing rurality. But who?
Authors: Dymitrow Mirek , Brauer Rene 
Published: November 2017

AbstractReflective inquiries to better understand ‘the rural’ have tried to embed rural research within the notion of performativity. Performativity assumes that the capacity of language is not simply to communicate but also to consummate action, whereupon citational uses of concepts produce a series of material effects. Of late, this philosophical shift has also implicated geographers as active agents in producing, reproducing and performing rurality. This paper provides a critical evaluation of what this new insistence really means for the production of geographical knowledge. Using framework analysis as a method, the paper scrutinizes several reportedly influential papers on the topic of rural performativity. Our findings reveal that, while indeed reflexive on issues of academic integrity, methodology and ethics, performances of rurality are continuedly placed ‘out there’ amongst ‘rural people’, i.e. in a priori defined and often stereotypically understood contexts, either by way of ‘spatial delimitation’ or ‘activity delimitation’. Effectively, such testimonies provide a truncated state of fidelity, where performance- oriented reflexivity is seconded by contradictory empirics of uneven value and with few commonalities. We conclude that by turning towards performativity as an allegedly more helpful way of obtaining rural coherence, we at the same time overlook our own role in keeping ‘rural theory’ alive.
Selected converter topologies for interfacing energy storages with power grid
Authors: Domino A. , Zymmer K. , Parchomiuk M. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
The paper presents different solutions applicable in power converter systems for connecting power grids with energy storage systems such as superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES), supercapacitor energy storage (SES) or chemical batteries. Those systems are characterized by bidirectional current flow between energy storage and power grid. Two-level converters (AC-DC and DC-AC converters) dedicated for low power energy storage compatible with 3×400 V-type power grids are proposed. High power systems are connected with 3×6 kV-type power grids via transformers that adjust voltage to the particular energy storage or directly, based on multilevel power converters (AC-DC and DC-AC) or dual active bridge (DAB) systems. Solutions ensuring power grid compatibility with several energy storage systems of the same electrical parameters as well as of different voltage-current characteristics are also proposed. Selected simulation results illustrating operation of two system topologies of 200 kW power for two-level converter and neutral point clamped (NPC) three-level converter are presented.
Predictive and look-up table control methods of a three-level AC-DC converter under distorted grid voltage
Authors: Falkowski P. , Kulikowski K. , Grodzki R. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Power electronic three-level AC-DC converters connecting a utility grid with DC supplies are widely used in renewable energy sources. For such distributed systems, the quality of energy is very important. Hence, control algorithms of an AC-DC converter have to provide not only a sinusoidal shape of grid current, but also stable operation during transient states in the grid, e.g. voltage dips or voltage unbalance. This paper deals with the problem of robustness of AC-DC control methods under disturbed grid voltage. Three modern predictive control algorithms are presented and investigated under grid voltage distortions. Experimental results from a laboratory test setup illustrating properties of the described methods are shown.
A family of high-power multilevel switched capacitor-based resonant DC-DC converters – operational parameters and novel concepts of topologies
Authors: Stala R. , Piróg S. , Penczek A. , Kawa A. , Waradzyn Z. , Mondzik A. , Skała A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
This paper presents the concept of topologies and investigation results of switched-capacitor voltage multipliers designed for application in high power systems. The analyzed family of multilevel converters includes established topologies as well as novel concepts. The application of thyristors as well as the invention of novel concepts of multiplier topologies and appropriate control make it possible to achieve high efficiency, high voltage gain, reliable and simple DC-DC converters for high power systems. Based on analytical models of the SCVMs, the paper presents a discussion of the selection of components and the efficiency of the converters as a function of converted power as well as the voltage range on the input and the output side. The results are supported by computer simulations and demonstrative experimental tests.
Motivation and Satisfaction of Employees in the Workplace
Authors: Rožman Maja , Treven Sonja , Čančer Vesna 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Background: The aging of the European population is a demographic trend reflected in the ever-growing number of older employees. This paper introduces the importance of motivation and satisfaction in the workplace among age diverse employees in Slovenian companies.

Objectives: The goal is to investigate the differences between the motivation and satisfaction of employees from different age groups in the workplace.

Methods/Approach: The paper is based on research including a survey of two age groups of employees in Slovenia. We employed the Mann-Whitney U test to verify differences in the motivation and satisfaction in the workplace between the two groups.

Results: Older employees are more motivated by flexibility in the workplace; autonomy at work; good interpersonal relationships in the workplace; the possibility of working at their own pace; respect among employees; equal treatment of employees regardless of their age. They are more satisfied with interpersonal relationships in the company; their work; working hours and the distribution of work obligations; and facilitation of the self-regulation of the speed of work performed.

Conclusions: Motivation and satisfaction change as individuals age. Using this information, managers and employers can apply appropriate measures to contribute to employees’ well-being and better workplace performance, better working relationships with colleagues, higher productivity, and greater creativity.
Presence of Banks on Social Networks in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Mabić Mirela , Gašpar Dražena , Lucović Damir 
Published: November 2017

AbstractBackground:Social networks allow real-time interaction that enhances a bank’s ability to respond to customers in a timely, intuitive and personalized manner. By using social networks, banks can improve the understanding of their clients and bank’s products they need. Also, banks can enhance relations with clients and strengthen their brand through raising client loyalty.Objectives:The paper explores and analyses the current presence of banks in Bosnia and Herzegovina on social networks.Methods/Approach:The paper studies the presence of 24 banks in Bosnia and Herzegovina on social networks and analyses the basic characteristics of profiles/pages of the banks on the most popular social networks.Results:A half of the banks have their profiles/pages on different social networks (mostly on Facebook and YouTube). They use the profiles/pages mainly for content marketing, i.e. for presenting their business operations. Unfortunately, banks do not encourage interaction with clients, except through likes.Conclusions:The analysis does not show that banks have a systematized and planned appearance on social networks. There is a plenty of room for improvement, and it is necessary primarily to address the interaction between clients and banks through social networks.
Process-Based Information Systems Development: Taking Advantage of a Component-Based Infrastructure
Authors: Pereira José Luís , e Sá Jorge Oliveira 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Background: Owing to the highly competitive business environment in which contemporary organizations have to operate, a quick and effective way of developing and maintaining information systems is of utmost importance to their success. Obviously, the computerized information systems that support the everyday operations and management of organizations play a critical role in their competitiveness. For that reason, nowadays, more than ever, information systems have to be quickly developed, rapidly reconfigured, and easily maintained.

Objectives: We aim to define a technological infrastructure, accompanied by a set of methodological development requirements, which might help to fulfil those needs.

Methods/Approach: In this work, we followed a Design Science Research (DSR) approach.

Results: We propose a specific IT infrastructure, inspired by the concept of a business process and using the functionalities provided by collaborative and workflow technologies, which allows the development of distributed IT solutions, Process-Based Information Systems (PBIS), in a component-based fashion. In the context of PBIS, we also propose a set of development requirements.

Conclusions: We claim that Process-Based Information Systems allow organizations to evolve quickly and smoothly in face of changing business requirements, facilitating the integration of existing and future IT artefacts, while simplifying the overall development and maintenance effort of information systems.
Emperors and vassals
Authors: Jakobsson Sverrir 
Published: November 2017

AbstractIn 1196 three messengers were sent by the Byzantine emperor Alexios III to the monarchs of Norway, Denmark and Sweden, to request military assistance. In this article, an attempt is made to place this request in a historical context, to determine what the intentions of the emperor were and how the three kings of Norway, Denmark and Sweden would have interpreted it on their part. The mission is examined in the context of the journeys of Scandinavian dignitaries to Constantinople in the twelfth century. An important feature in all these descriptions is the continued presence of Scandinavian soldiers in the service of the Emperor, the Varangian Guard. The Varangians are portrayed as countrymen and natural allies of the new arrivals. It is argued that, although medieval Byzantium did not have a formal institution such as vassalage, the emperor certainly regarded the Scandinavian monarchs as his oath-bound “liegemen”, and that the mission of 1196 a part of that established Byzantine trend.
Katechanas – ein lange verkannter mittelbyzantinischer Bei- bzw. Familienname
Authors: Seibt Werner 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThe surname of a Nikolaos πρωτοσπαθάριος καὶ πριμικήριος τῶν συνηγόρων resp. πρωτοσπαθάριος, θεσμογράφος καὶ πριμικήριος τῶν συνηγόρων on his lead seals from the time between 1040 and 1110 had been interpreted in the past with mistakes (Karichala, Katichael). Now we know three exemplars of each type and are able to correct to Κατιχανᾶς / Κατηχανᾶς. One more seal mentions an Ioannes Katechanas as β. κληρικός for a time between 1050 and 1110.The surname Katechanas is not documented elsewhere but has probably a Greek origin.
Application of κ free light chains in cerebrospinal fluid as a biomarker in multiple sclerosis diagnosis: development of a diagnosis algorithm
Authors: Valencia-Vera Estefania , Martinez-Escribano Garcia-Ripoll Ana , Enguix Alfredo , Abalos-Garcia Carmen , Segovia-Cuevas Maria Jesus 
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Background:
The determination of κ free light chains (KFLC) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by nephelometry is a feasible alternative to immunoglobulin G oligoclonal bands (OCB) in the evaluation of intrathecal synthesis of immunoglobulin in multiple sclerosis (MS) and other demyelinating diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of KFLC and its inclusion in a procedure algorithm along with OCB interpretation.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study, which included 123 patients with a CSF OCB request, was carried out. Isoelectric focusing followed by immunofixation was used to detect OCB, and nephelometry was used to analyze KFLC. The KFLC index was calculated using CSF/serum quotient of KFLC and albumin. The KFLC index was compared with MS diagnosis to find the optimal cutoff. It was obtained from the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the Youden method.

Results:
The CSF KFLC median was 1.66 mg/L in the MS group, whereas in other central nervous system diseases, KFLC showed generally no or only moderate increase in CSF (median 0.10 mg/L). KFLC index showed a significant difference between groups. ROC analysis for CSF KFLC concentration, and KFLC indexes were 91.88% and 93.94%, respectively. The best cutoff for the KFLC index was 2.91 for MS diagnosis (sensitivity: 83.78%; specificity: 85.88%). The proposed algorithm showed high sensitivity (89.19%) and specificity (84.71%).

Conclusions:
KFLC determination is rapid and automatized, but it has no higher sensitivity and specificity than OCB in MS diagnosis. Nevertheless, when used in screening, it could reduce the number of manual OCB tests.
Impact of Different Irrigation Managements on Soil Water Consumption, Grain Yield, Seed Protein, Phosphorus and Potassium of Winter Wheat
Authors: Shahrajabian M.H. , Soleymani A. , Ogbaji P.O. , Xue X. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
To evaluate soil water consumption, changes in quantity and quality of winter wheat seed and forage under different irrigation treatments, an experiment was conducted in Beijing, China, in the 2012-2013. Irrigation treatments were (I1): irrigation before sowing, (I2): irrigation before sowing + before freezing; (I3): irrigation before sowing + before freezing + irrigation in the beginning of erecting stage + irrigation at flowering stage; (I4): irrigation before sowing + irrigation before freezing + irrigation at the booting stage + irrigation at flowering stage. The laid out of experiment was randomized complete block design, repeated six times. The effect of irrigation on total biological yield, grain yield and harvest index is significant. The highest mean soil water consumption in Oct., Nov., Dec., Jan., Feb., Mar., Apr. and May was obtained for lysimeter 10 (I2), lysimeter 10 (I2), lysimeter 6 (I2), lysimeter 10 (I2), lysimeter 10 (I2), lysimeter 10 (I2), lysimeter 11 (I3), and lysimeter 10 (I2), respectively. The results from the study indicate that irrigation winter wheat throughout the booting stage and flowering stage increased grain yield, harvest index, potassium percentage, ash percentage of forage wheat at flowering stage, seed and forage protein percentage. Evapotranspiration trends increased steadily, especially in last three months, in which the lysimeter fields were covered by winter wheat completely.
Organic Matter, Protein Percentage, Yield, Competition and Economics of Oat-Soybean and Oat-Groundnut Intercropping Systems in Northern China
Authors: Yong Y. , Hu Y. , Shahrajabian M.H. , Ren C. , Guo L. , Wang C. , Zeng Z. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Intercropping is one of the most important and sustaibale cropping practice in agro-ecosystems. The study was conducted under field conditions in the arid Horqine sandy land in Baicheng District, Jilin Province, Northern China in 2011. A randomized complete block design with four replications was used. Treatments comprised different mono cropping and intercropping patterns, TO: sole cropping of oat, TOS-O: oat in the intercropping of oat and soybean, TOG-O: oat in the intercropping of oat and groundnut, TS: sole cropping of soybean, TOS-S: soybean in intercropping of oat and soybean, TG: sole cropping of groundnut, TOG-G: groundnut in the intercropping of oat and groundnut. In intercropping patterns, oat in oat-groundnut had obtained the highest dry matter in all stages. The highest value of protein percentage and organic matter in heading stage, grain filling stage, and grain dough stage was achieved in groundnut in oatgroundnut intercropping. The maximum value of protein percentage and organic matter in booting stage and ripening stage was related to soybean in oat-soybean intercropping. The results of this study clearly indicate that intercropping oat and groundnut affects the growth rate of the individual species in mixtures as well as the dry matter yield and nitrogen accumulation. The highest seed yield was obtained for mono-cropping of soybean, followed by mono-cropping of groundnut and oat. Oat seed yield intercropping of oat and groundnut, and intercropping of oat and soybean were 1208.00 kg/ha, and 832.3 kg/ha, respectively. The highest grain yield was obtained when soybean was grown together with oat, where the higher yield of intercrop is due to the better usage of nutrient, water and light. LER in all intercropping patterns were higher than 1. LER in intercropping of soybean and oat, and intercropping of groundnut and oat were 1.41, and 1.30, respectively. With these LER values, 29.07% and 23.07% of land were, respectively, saved in intercropping of soybean and oat, and intercropping of groundnut and oat, respectively, which could be used for other agricultural purposes. In both intercropping of soybean and oat, and intercropping of groundnut and oat, CI were less than 1, which means that both these two intercropping patterns have positive effects.
Foliar Application of Sodium Molybdate Enhanced Nitrogen Uptake and Translocation in Soybean Plants by Improving Nodulation Process Under Salt Stress
Authors: Farhangi-Abriz S. , Faegi-Analou R. , Nikpour-Rashidabad N. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Soil salinity with different harmful effects on plant growth and productivity is one of the main reasons in diminishing biological nitrogen fixation and nitrogen assimilation in legume plants. Molybdate has a key role on nitrogen metabolism of plants and can be has a beneficial effect on it. Thus, this experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of sodium molybdate spraying (0.2 and 0.4% solutions in water) on nodulation, nitrogen uptake and translocation in soybean plants under different levels of salt stress (0, 5 and 10 dS m−1 NaCl, respectively). Salinity reduced the nodulation, root and shoot growth and special flavonoids content in roots, which are have a key role in nodulation includes, daidzein, genistein, coumestrol and glycitein, also diminished nitrogenase, glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), glutamine oxoglutarate aminotransferase (GOGAT) and nitrate reductase (NR) activities in nodes, nitrogen content of nodes, roots and leaves, nitrogen uptake and translocation by soybean plants. Under salt stress and nonsaline condition, sodium molybdate treatments improved the nodulation by increasing flavonoids content of roots, also these treatments enhanced the plant growth and nitrogenase, GS, GDH, GOGAT and NR activities of nodes. Furthermore, nitrogen content of nodes, roots and leaves, nitrogen uptake and translocation by soybean plants improved by sodium molybdate applications. Both of the sodium molybdate doses, exposed the similar effects on improving nodulation and nitrogen metabolism of soybean.
Trend data for administration of medications in patients with acute cerebrovascular accidents and its sequelae
Authors: Levytska Oksana , Hromovyk Bohdan , Yavorska Nataliya 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThe trends in drug utilization in patients with acute cerebrovascular accidents (ACVA) and its sequelae were investigated in the Neurological Department of Lviv Regional Hospital, Ukraine, in 2007 and 2015. From the 10 anatomical groups of the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification system, in 2007, 181 medications were prescribed for treatment of ACVA and concomitant diseases, compared to 198 medications in 2015. The medications of Group C (Cardiovascular system) were of the maximal proportion in both analyzed periods (28.1% in 2007 and 29.8% in 2015). Moreover, the largest proportion of the prescribed medications of the 3rd level groups of the ATC classification system were of group В01А - “Antithrombotic agents” (7.2% in 2007 and 6.6% in 2015). Furthermore, three medications (Magnesium sulfate, L-lysini aescinas and Potassium chloride) were prescribed for 50% and more patients in both analyzed periods, while the prescriptions of other medications were characterized by high variability. АТС/DDD analysis also revealed the tendency toward an increase in prescription and drug utilization of the main medication groups, and that these were used for nonspecific and specific therapy for ACVA, as well as for secondary prevention (antihypertensives, anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents and statins). Totally, the drug utilization of these medication groups was 38.5% in 2007 and 58.0%, respectively, in 2015, compared to the overall number of DDDs. The results of our study suggest the existence of a positive tendency in prescriptions, and of compliance with the current principles of treatment, in patients with ACVA, in Ukraine.