bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of Pedestrian Bridge Dynamic Response trough Field Measurements and Numerical Modelling: Case Studies
Authors: Manolis George D. , Athanatopoulou-Kyriakou Asimina , Dragos Kosmas D. , Arabatzis Argyris , Lavdas Alexandros , Karakostas Christos Z. 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
In this work, we develop a technique for performing system identification in typical pedestrian bridges, using routine equipment at a minimal configuration, and for cases where actual structural data are either sparse or absent. To this end, two pedestrian bridges were examined, modelled and finally instrumented so as to record their dynamic response under operational conditions. More specifically, the bridges were numerically modelled using the finite element method (FEM) according to what was deduced to be their current operating status, while rational assumptions were made with respect to uncertain structural properties. Next, results from field testing using a portable accelerometer unit were processed to produce response spectra that were used as input to a structural identification software program, which in turn yielded the excited natural frequencies and mode shapes of the bridges. The low level of discrepancy is given between analytical and experimental results, the latter are used for a final calibration of the numerical models.
Factors Influencing Company Relations with Market Stakeholders, in the Face of Crises in Company Development
Authors: Olszewska Barbara , Piwoni-Krzeszowska Estera 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Crises in company development are a particular subset of management crises. They emerge on various stages of company development, as a result of gradual depletion of effective management solutions. Crisis situations in companies have varied impact on company stakeholders. The paper presents results of empirical studies of factors influencing company relations with market stakeholders and those that facilitate the process of restoring and maintaining any relations that suffered in the course of crises in company development. The authors’ intention was to identify such factors and evaluate their importance, in relation to various stages of company development and the associated types of crisis situations faced by companies. Empirical studies suggest that certain factors may facilitate conflict resolution in matters concerning company relations with market stakeholders, and that the impact of these factors varies depending on the phase of organizational development and the type of the associated crisis situation. It must be noted, that one of the most important factors to influence problem resolution is the perceived honesty of the exchange participants. Moreover, research suggests that opinions on the significance of organizational dependence of exchange participants in the resolution of problems in relations with market stakeholders are varied.
Increased alcohol use over the past 20 years among the oldest old in Sweden
Authors: Kelfve Susanne , Agahi Neda , Mattsson Alexander Darin , Lennartsson Carin 
Published: June 2014

Aims Increased alcohol consumption among old people, reported in many countries, will likely present a major challenge to public health and policy in the future. In Sweden, current knowledge about old people's alcohol consumption is incomplete because of limited historical data and a dearth of nationally representative studies. We describe the frequency of alcohol consumption among the oldest old in Sweden over a 20-year period by sex, age, education, living situation, mobility and Activities of Daily Living. Methods We used repeated cross-sectional survey data from the Swedish Panel Study of Living Conditions of the Oldest Old (SWEOLD), conducted in 1992, 2002 and 2011. The samples were nationally representative of the Swedish population aged 77+, with response rates of 95.4%, 84.4% and 86.2% (total n=2007). Self-reported consumption frequency was measured with the question “How often do you drink alcoholic beverages, such as wine, beer or spirits?” Results Frequency of alcohol consumption increased among the oldest old from 1992 to 2011. The proportion reporting no or less-than-monthly alcohol consumption decreased, whereas the proportion reporting weekly consumption increased. This was true for men, women and most age and educational groups. The period change in consumption frequency was not explained by changes in demographic factors, living situation or functional capacity during the study period. Conclusions Alcohol use increased among the oldest old in Sweden during the 20-year study period. More liberal attitudes toward alcohol could contribute to the increased use. The increase in weekly alcohol consumers suggests an increase in the number of older risk consumers.
Room for Action? How Service Managers in Three Scandinavian Cities Experience their Possibilities to Develop their Services
Authors: Næss Ole , Opedal Ståle , Nesvåg Sverre M. 
Published: June 2014

Background The study is based on the ongoing public debate concerning a limited scope for local service development in alcohol and drug treatment-related services - and that the main cause of local “paralysis” is to be found in health policy micromanagement of these services. It is argued that business management models place too much emphasis on financial control and performance measurement and that this leads to less interest in quality improvement in the provision of services. Design 23 interviews with service managers in three Nordic urban municipalities, Stavanger, Umeå and Aarhus. Results The article documents comprehensive local service development, demonstrating that the main conditions for innovation are management commitment and interdisciplinary co-operation in the practice field. Conclusions In all three municipalities the services develop in a hybrid innovation model that combines New Public Management-inspired solutions with technical co-operation in horizontal networks. Results show that NPM-inspired solutions to alcohol and drug treatment services do not necessarily hinder the consideration of local professionalism and flexibility in the development.
Urban Geography Evolving: Toward an Evolutionary Urban Geography
Authors: Weaver Russell C. 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Despite growing interest in the application of evolutionary concepts to research questions in human geography, the literature is largely characterised by metaphors or analogies that are disconnected from a broader evolutionary theoretical framework. This paper takes initial steps toward developing such a framework for the subfield of urban geography by defining critical elements and relationships from Darwinian and multilevel selection theories. It then synthesises those components in an application to the issues of urban blight and disorder, to demonstrate how an evolutionary understanding of urban spatial phenomena - an “evolutionary urban geography” - can produce new insights for managing complex processes.
Small Border Traffic and Cross-Border Tourism Between Poland and the Kaliningrad Oblast of the Russian Federation
Authors: Anisiewicz Renata , Palmowski Tadeusz 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Polish and Russian cross-border cooperation is governed by lawful agreements. The enlargement of the Schengen Area had a significant impact on Kaliningrad Oblast relations and cross-border cooperation with its neighbours. The introduction of visas between Poland and Russia hindered and restricted local border trade which had for years been the only measure mitigating social and economic problems of the cross-border regions. Nevertheless, border traffic between Poland and Kaliningrad grew steadily, to exceed four million in 2012.
Poland and Russia, supported by Germany, applied to the EU for small border traffic to cover the entire territory of the Oblast. According to the European Commission, the proposed solution would be a European exception. The agreement on small border traffic came into force on July 27, 2012, covering the entire area of the Kaliningrad Oblast and selected Polish poviats of Pomerania and Warmia-Mazuria voivodeships. Towards the end of the first quarter of 2013, the number of Poles crossing the border showed a rising tendency, and starting from the second through the third quarter of 2013, the number of Russians coming to Poland grew more dynamically.
The visits of Kaliningrad residents, apart from commercially oriented ones, also include recreation, tourism, medical tourism visits, etc. Kaliningrad citizens looking for leisure, recreation and entertainment come to participate in great sporting and cultural events in Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia. The local self governments of poviats covered by small border traffic noted a clear upturn in the economies and trade of their regions.
The development of cross-border cooperation, including small border traffic, has not resulted in attracting a substantial number of Polish tourists to the Kaliningrad Oblast, but it has provided such a possibility. This region is quite expensive for the average Pole. However, as scientists from Kaliningrad projected, with the easing of the visa system and the development of transport and tourist infrastructure the role of tourism shows a growing trend.
Quality of Life and Attractiveness of Small Towns: A Comparison of France and Poland
Authors: Kwiatek-Sołtys Agnieszka , Mainet Helene 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Nowadays the issue of the quality of life tends to be more and more important for the attractiveness of spaces in the context of increasing commuting and social demand for a good living environment. Small towns are often seen as places where “the living is easy” and social ties are dense. They are therefore a good basis for analysing the quality of life. This is a transversal and complex notion which is not always easy to define. This paper is based on surveys conducted in small Polish and French towns in order to analyse perceptions of the quality of life by both their inhabitants and local leaders, and their potential place in the attractiveness of small towns.
Hyperglycaemia Among Nigerian Infants Weighing Less Than 1,500 Grammes at Birth: A Retrospective Assessment of the Clinical Data
Authors: Onyiriuka Alphonsus N. , Enyi Francisca N. 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Background and Aims: In very low birthweight (VLBW) infants, birthweight < 1,500g, hyperglycaemia is associated with increased rates of mortality and morbidity. Our study aimed at determining the prevalence of hyperglycaemia among VLBW infants and describing their clinical characteristics. Methods: A retrospective chart review of all inborn VLBW infants was performed. Information obtained included birthweight, gestational age (best obstetric record), gender, and history of chorioamnionitis/maternal medical disorders, type and rates of intravenous fluid administration. Blood glucose level ≥ 7 mmol/L on at least two occasions defined hyperglycaemia. Results: Of the 279 blood glucose values, obtained from 93 infants, 91 (32.6%; 95% CI = 27.1% -38.1%) were in the hyperglycaemic range, with the majority (61.5%) occurring in the first 48 hours of life. The frequency of hyperglycaemia was significantly associated with a rate of infusion greater than 0.4g/kg/hour (Odds Ratio, OR = 3.76; 95% CI=1.58-8.94) and a positive history of maternal chorioamnionitis (OR = 3.04; 95%CI= 1.15-8.01). Conclusion: In the first 48 hours of life, hyperglycaemia co-existing with or complicating primary illnesses was common in VLBW infants who had dextrose infusion and a positive history of maternal chorioamnionitis
Arterial Stiffness and Impaired Renal Function in Patients With and Without Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Georgescu Olivia , Nica Cătălin , Crăciun Silvia , Toader Cristina , Ioacără Sorin , Fica Simona 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Background and aims: Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index (CAVI) was developed as an index of arterial stiffness independently of blood pressure and other markers of early atherosclerosis. The aim of the study was to assess the correlations between CAVI and renal disease in type 2 diabetic patients compared with those without diabetes. Material
and methods: We evaluated anthropometric, biochemical and vascular parameters (through CAVI) in 133 patients with and 80 without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mean aged 59.34 ± 11.94 years. Results: We found that 52.04 % of subjects with T2DM and 22.22 % of patients without T2DM had pathological arterial stiffness. Mean CAVI value was significantly higher in T2DM (p = 0.04), positively correlated with age and negatively with glomerular filtration rate. The prevalence of chronic kidney disease in patients with pathological vascular stiffness was 5.28 times higher in T2DM compared with the control group. Conclusion: The prevalence of pathological vascular stiffness, mean CAVI and prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) were also higher in patients with T2DM than in the control group. Arterial stiffness plays an important role in renal impairment both in normoglycemic subjects and patients with T2DM, so preventive measures to optimize lifestyle and treatment must target the decrease of CAVI
The Effect of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide and Lipids Concentration in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy
Authors: Serhiyenko Victoria , Alexandr Serhiyenko Alexandr , Segin Volodymyr 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Background and Aims: Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality. The aim of the study was to analyze the effect of long-chain w-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (w-3 PUFA) on the levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and on some lipid profile parameters in patients with T2DM and CAN. Material and Methods: 36 patients with T2DM and verified CAN were divided into 2 groups. The first group received traditional hypoglycemic therapy (n = 15, control) for three months; patients in group 2 (n = 21) received in addition 1 g/day of the long-chain w-3 PUFA for three months. Results: Prescription of the w-3 PUFA to the patients with T2DM and СAN was accompanied by a statistically significant decrease of NT-proBNP level and led to significantly positive changes in the high density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the blood. Conclusions: Obtained results suggest that the efficacy of w-3 PUFA is the result of a direct effect of the pharmacological agent on the investigated indexes
Mixed Hyperlipidemia Associated with Triple X Syndrome (A Case Report)
Authors: Anton-Pǎduraru Dana-Teodora , Oltean Carmen , Trandafir Laura Mihaela , Rusu Cristina 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Lipid metabolism abnormalities in children may be hereditary or secondary to certain diseases (obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus). Often elevated triglycerides values are associated with high cholesterol values, playing a major role on atherosclerosis. The triple X syndrome also called “the superfemale syndrome” is not a rare condition, but it is usually undiagnosed or occasionally diagnosed when other investigations are done. The authors present the case of a child admitted in the 3rd Clinic of Pediatrics -“Sf. Maria” Children’s Emergency Hospital, Iaşi -Romania for the continuation of her lipid metabolism investigations, being diagnosed on this occasion with the triple X syndrome. We conclude that the investigation of lipid metabolism, early identification of lipid abnormalities and proper treatment significantly reduce the prevalence of cardiovascular disease in adults. We cannot specify the impact of the presence of the chromosomal anomaly, as it is an accidental association
Connection Between Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Oprea-Călin Gabriela , Babeș Petru Aurel , Andronescu Dan Valentin , Andronescu Crăița-Isabela 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the commonest liver condition in the world, accounting for 20-30% of the adult population, and encompasses a spectrum of liver disorders characterized by fat accumulation within the liver, associated or not with varying degrees of hepatic inflammation and liver fibrosis through to cirrhosis. The prevalence of NAFLD increases significantly in the presence of obesity (60-80%) and type 2 diabetes (60%). NAFLD is associated with metabolic disorders (type 2 diabetes, obesity and hyperlipidemia) grouped together as the metabolic syndrome (MetS). It is now regarded as the hepatic manifestation of this syndrome and is closely linked to insulin resistance (IR).The presence of NAFLD predicts the development of type 2 diabetes independent of established risk factors. NAFLD patients should therefore be screened for diabetes, including by the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) if there any abnormalities of fasting blood glucose (FBG) and given appropriate lifestyle advice. Early diagnosis with the institution of lifestyle measures could help prevent or retard the onset of these metabolic disorders. Type 2 diabetes causes more severe non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and patients with diabetes have an increased risk for cirrhosis and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
Glycated Albumin – More Than the Missing Link in the Evaluation of Diabetes Control
Authors: Dinu Ilie-Robert , Moţa Eugen 
Published: June 2014

Abstract
Diabetes mellitus represents a major public health problem in the world and glycemic control is very important in subjects with diabetes. Glycation of many proteins is increased in subjects with diabetes compared with persons without diabetes. Glycated albumin (GA) has emerged as a possible glycation index for intermediate-term diabetes control. There is evidence that GA can be considered a better parameter than glycated haemoglobin in many conditions including pregnancy, chronic kidney disease, liver diseases and anemia. Several reports indicate that GA plays a role in the pathogeny of diabetes complications, mainly in diabetic nephropathy and retinopathy. There are several limitations for using GA including the lack of standardization in the laboratories. Several studies are needed in order to understand the place of GA in the pathogeny of diabetes complications and the role in assessing the metabolic control
A reverse engineering approach to the Weil representation
Authors: Aubert Anne-Marie , Przebinda Tomasz 
Published: June 2014

AbstractWe describe a new approach to the Weil representation attached to a symplectic group over a finite or a local field. We dissect the representation into small pieces, study how they work, and put them back together. This way, we obtain a reversed construction of that of T. Thomas, skipping most of the literature on which the latter is based.
Analytical approximate solutions to the Thomas-Fermi equation
Authors: Marinca Vasile , Ene Remus-Daniel 
Published: June 2014

AbstractThe purpose of this paper is to show how to use the Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method (OHAM) to solve the nonlinear differential Thomas-Fermi equation. Our procedure does not depend upon small parameters and provides us with a convenient way to optimally control the convergence of the approximate solutions. An excellent agreement was found between our approximate results and numerical solutions, which prove that OHAM is very efficient in practice, ensuring a very rapid convergence after only one iteration.
Two dimensional fractional projectile motion in a resisting medium
Authors: Rosales Juan , Guía Manuel , Gómez Francisco , Aguilar Flor , Martínez Juan 
Published: June 2014

AbstractIn this paper we propose a fractional differential equation describing the behavior of a two dimensional projectile in a resisting medium. In order to maintain the dimensionality of the physical quantities in the system, an auxiliary parameter k was introduced in the derivative operator. This parameter has a dimension of inverse of seconds (sec)−1 and characterizes the existence of fractional time components in the given system. It will be shown that the trajectories of the projectile at different values of γ and different fixed values of velocity v 0 and angle θ, in the fractional approach, are always less than the classical one, unlike the results obtained in other studies. All the results obtained in the ordinary case may be obtained from the fractional case when γ = 1.
Novel dendrimer-based nickel catalyst: synthesis, characterization and performance in ethylene oligomerization
Authors: Wang Jun , Yang Guang , Li Cui-Qin , Shi Wei-Guang , Wang Si-Han 
Published: June 2014

AbstractA novel nickel metallodendrimer was synthesized with poly(amidoamine), 3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-benzaldehyde and nickel chloride via the Schiff’s base and the complexation reactions. Structures of the dendritic ligand and its nickel complex were characterized by IR, NMR, UV, ESI-MS and elemental analyses. This new nickel metallodendrimer as a catalyst precursor, together with methylaluminoxane as an activator, was evaluated in the ethylene oligomerization. Under the conditions of 0.5 h, 0.5 MPa, 25°C and Al/Ni mole ratio 500: 1 employed for the nickel complex, the catalytic activity showed a maximum value of 4.93 × 105 grams per mole of Ni catalyst per hour. Substituents on the benzene ring seem to have a negative influence on the catalytic activity of the complex.
Cobalt ion-doped polyaniline, poly(N-methylaniline), and poly(N-ethylaniline): electrosynthesis and characterisation using electrochemical methods in acidic solutions
Authors: Hur Evrim , Arslan Andac 
Published: June 2014

AbstractCobalt ion (Co2+)-doped polyaniline (PANI-Co), poly(N-methylaniline) (PNMA-Co), and poly(N-ethylaniline) (PNEA-Co) films were synthesised electrochemically on a pencil graphite electrode (PGE) and their electrochemical properties were investigated for supercapacitor applications. The polymer film-coated electrodes (PGE/PANI-Co, PGE/PNMA-Co, and PGE/PNEA-Co) thus obtained were characterised by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and different electrochemical methods. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements were employed in 0.1 M H2SO4 solution to calculate the specific capacitance (C S) values of the electrodes. The maximum C S of 192.94 F g−1, 139.83 F g−1, and 47.12 F g−1 were achieved for PGE/PANI-Co, PGE/PNMA-Co, and PGE/PNEA-Co at 1 mV s−1, respectively. On the other hand, the charge/discharge stability of the electrodes was analysed using the repeating chronopotentiometry (RCP) method. The RCP measurements indicate that the electrodes could be used as an electrode active material for low voltage supercapacitor applications.
Detection of peroxyacetyl nitrate in air using chemiluminescence aerosol detector
Authors: Mikuška Pavel , Bružeňák Lukáš , Večeřa Zbyněk 
Published: June 2014

AbstractA method for the rapid and sensitive determination of peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) in air based on a chemiluminescence reaction with an alkaline solution of luminol in the chemiluminescence aerosol detector is described. The PAN is chromatographically separated from nitrogen dioxide and ozone in a packed column filled with 5 % OV-1 on Chromosorb 30/60 and the eluted PAN is detected via the direct reaction with the luminol solution consisting of 0.002 mol L−1 luminol, 1 vol. % Brij-35 and 0.1 mol L−1 KOH. The limit of detection is 14.9 ng m−3 (3 ppt) of PAN. Alternatively, the PAN after separation is thermally converted to NO2 which is detected by the chemiluminescence reaction with a solution consisting of 0.002 mol L−1 luminol, 0.5 mol L−1 KOH, 0.2 mol L−1 Na2SO3, 0.1 mol L−1 KI, 0.05 mol L−1 EDTA and 0.5 vol. % triton X-100. The alternative approach affords the simultaneous determination of PAN and NO2. The limit of detection is 50 ppt of PAN and 50 ppt of NO2. The time resolution is 3 min. The method was applied to the measurement of ambient peroxyacetyl nitrate in air.