bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE FACTORS DETERMINING PROFITABILITY OF GRAIN PRODUCTION IN A REGION
Authors: Vorobyov Sergei , Vorobyova Viktoria , Shmakov Artem
Published: June 2019

The research was conducted in order to determine influence of structural factors on profitability of grain production in the Altai Region, which is one of the main producers of grain in Russia. The influence of specialization and placement on the economic efficiency of grain production in the Altai Region was determined, factors for the formation of financial results and the financial condition of grain-type organizations were revealed. Comparison of agricultural organizations for which grain farming was the main production sector indicates that in case of increase in the cultivation area, the economic efficiency of resource use will be increased, despite higher costs per hectare of grain crops. The variation of organizations in the profitability of production is explained by the imperfection of the management system of the main branches in separate agricultural organizations, including non-optimal production volumes and placement in natural and economic zones. In the largest highly tailored organizations the economic efficiency of the resources used increased in the short-term perspective rose, but risks of its decline are created in the long-term period.
LOAD-CARRYING CAPACITY INCREASE OF ARCH-TYPE TIMBER ROOF
Authors: Murnieks Janis , Serdjuks Dmitrijs , Buka-Vaivade Karina
Published: June 2019

Possibility to increase load-carrying capacity of arch-type timber roof of multifunctional public building with the span equal to 60 m was analysed. Three-hinged segment arches with the rectangular glued cross-sections are considered as the main load-carrying structures in the transversal direction. Freely supported purlins with the massive rectangular cross-sections are considered as the main load-carrying structures in the longitudinal direction. The dependences between height of the arches, it bays and distances between the bracing members strengthening top and bottom zone of the arches cross-sections so as relative materials consumption and specific load-carrying capacity of the arches were obtained as the second power polynomial equations. Height of the arches and it bay changes within the limits from 10 to 30 and from 2 to 9 m, correspondingly. The distances between the bracing members strengthening top and bottom zone of the arches changes within the limits from 2 till 10 and from 4 till 16 m, correspondingly. The arch-type timber roof was considered under the action of the load combination which include structural dead weight, drifted and undrifted snow loads and wind loads. The relative materials consumption of the arches was determined as a relation between the dead weight of the arch to it span and changes within the limits from 24 till 114 kg/m. Glued and solid timber with strength classes GL24h and C24 are considered as materials of arches and purlins, correspondingly. The specific load-carrying capacity of the arches was determined as a relation between load –carrying capacity of the arche and volume of structural materials. Specific load-carrying capacity of the arches changes within the limits from 0.23 till 0.83 kN/m/t in the case, if purlins are taken into account. It was shown, that the rational from the point of view of materials consumption and specific load-carrying capacity height of the arche, it bays so as the distances between the bracing members strengthening top and bottom zone of the arches are equal to 15, 7.5, 5 and 15 m, correspondingly. Corresponding values of relative materials consumption and specific load-carrying capacity are equal to 24 and 0.23 kN/m/t. The depth and width of the arche cross-section were equal to 1617 and 318 mm, correspondingly. It was shown, that strengthening of the arches cross-section by the steel bars of strength class B500 and carbon fibre reinforced plastic tape Sika Crbo Dur S512 enables to increase load-carrying capacity of the arche by 10.20 and 9.48%, correspondingly. But common use of the steel bars together with the carbon fibre reinforced plastic tapes enables to increase load-carrying capacity of the arche by 18.89%.
MANAGEMENT OF SEMI-WILD LARGE HERBIVORES’ GRAZING SITES IN LATVIA
Authors: Reķe Agnese , Zariņa Anita , Vinogradovs Ivo
Published: June 2019

Large herbivores were a common part of European nature in the pre-agrarian times. With the development of farming and over-hunting, the number of wild large herbivores rapidly decreased. Wild horses and cattle became extinct. In the 1920-30’s, scientists created two new herbivore breeds that resembled the extinct aurochs and tarpans - Heck cattle and Konik horses. Nowadays the introduction of Heck cattle, Konik horses and other similar large herbivore breeds is widely used in specially protected nature territories (SPNT) as a strategic answer to the question – what should we do with the agricultural lands that have lost their economical meaning. Since 1999, semi-wild large herbivores are introduced in various SPNT of Latvia as well, mainly in nature parks and nature reserves. Based on field visits, interviews and policy analysis, this paper discusses two main approaches to semi-wild grazing animal population management in Latvia: (1) introduced herbivores as a part of rewilding process and (2) introduced herbivores as instruments for habitat protection. The former represents the implementation of western wilderness values, while the latter is related to more specific protection of species and habitats according to particular place-based nature protection goals. This study contributes to the growing discussion on rewilding practises in Europe and the introduction ideas of semi-wild animals, as well as landscape management practices in the era of post-productivism.
PROBLEMS OF ENSURING ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SECURITY BY INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES UNDER THE ARCTIC ZONE CONDITIONS
Authors: Pilipenko Valeriia I. , Vlasova Marina S. , Algina Tatyana B.
Published: June 2019

Ensuring regional environmental and economic security is one of the priorities of the state. The problems of sustainable development of regions and their industrial complexes are considered by many scientists, however, insufficient attention is paid to the analysis of the sustainability of industrial enterprises in the Arctic zone (AZ) and their impact on the ecological and economic security of the region. Many of the problems of theoretical and methodological support for improving this security remain underestimated. For industrial enterprises of the Far North as a part of AZ, it is necessary to use a special approach to the development of methodological aspects of ensuring environmental and economic security due to the significant role that entrepreneurial activity has in the socio-economic development of the region and in the environmental situation.The purpose of the research is the formation of a mechanism to ensure the environmental and economic security of the Russian Arctic zone (RAZ), as a region where industrial enterprises operate. The object of the research was the ecological and economic security of the region of the Arctic zone, which exists in the modern conditions of globalization of the economy and the increasing influence of geopolitical factors. The subject of the study was a set of problems of a theoretical, methodical and applied nature, related to the development and implementation of a model for the development of industrial enterprises in the Arctic zone. The factors limiting the development of industrial enterprises of the Far North are formulated. A system of indicators for the sustainable development of industrial enterprises and the environmental and economic security of the region of the Arctic zone of Russia is proposed. The interrelation of indicators of the development of industrial enterprises of the Arctic zone with the conditions of the external economic environment has been revealed, which made it possible to conclude that the structure of industrial production in the regions of the Russian Arctic is distorted. This, in turn, necessitates the formation of maritime clusters and the development of small and medium-sized businesses in the industrial sector. A comparative description of the key areas of state regulation of industrial enterprises in foreign and domestic practice has been carried out. The recommendations of the possible use (adaptation) of international experience in the Russian Arctic are formulated.
CLASTIC QUATERNARY SEDIMENTS OF THE AUGŠDAUGAVA SPILLWAY VALLEY AS NATURAL RESOURCES – GRAIN SIZE DISTRIBUTION AND MICROMORPHOLOGY OF QUARTZ GRAINS AS INDICATORS FOR DISTINGUISHING ALLUVIAL AND GLACIOFLUVIAL SAND DEPOSITS
Authors: Soms Juris , Ošmjanskis Ēriks
Published: June 2019

Alluvial and glaciofluvial sand and gravel deposits are the significant natural resources of the Augšdaugava spillway valley. Considering that these sediments differ in granulometric composition and degree of sorting, which in turn determine their utilisation, it is substantially to distinguish sediments of different origin. Hence the main objective of this study was to assess grain size distribution and micromorphology of quartz grains as indicators for distinguishing alluvial and glaciofluvial sands. The grain size distribution has been identified by the laser diffraction method, but the micromorphology of quartz grains has been analysed by scanning electron microscopy. The obtained data indicate that results of the granulometric composition analysis can be used for the discrimination of alluvial and glaciofluvial sediments, in contrast, micromorphology cannot be a reliable diagnostic indicator for identifying the sand of different origin.
THE DEVICE OF THE SHALLOW FRAME (HALF-FRAME) WITH QUICK FITTING OF A BEESWAX FOUNDATION AND ITS ADVANTAGE
Authors: Voiku Ivan
Published: June 2019

Transformation of the world food market, caused by the change of China from the world's largest exporter into importer, and the expansion of the world food crisis, actualizes the need to solve the main problem of beekeeping – technical and technological backwardness. Automation and mechanization of beekeeping has a long history, however the high rates of the industry are achieved mainly due to the huge costs of manual labor, time and means. The amount of time, spent by beekeepers on the service of beehives, grows in direct proportion to the expansion of the apiary, and it can be seen as an obstacle to the development of the entire industry. Fitting of a beeswax foundation in the frame is one of the most labor-intensive technological operations [1]. Description of the device of the shallow frame (half-frame), which allows to abandon the traditional technology of fitting of a beeswax foundation in favor of the new – accelerated one, is presented. The device is a frame, divided longitudinally in two parts, connected together by loops. On the edges of the separated bars there are protrusions, which allow, while closing, to cut off the sheet of a beeswax foundation. The technical result of using the proposed device is simplification of the assembly process and reduction of labor costs while servicing beehive frames. The proposed device changes the traditional technology of fitting of a beeswax foundation, reducing the number of operations of the beekeeper to: opening the frame, positioning the standard sized sheet of a beeswax foundation in the frame, cutting the sheet to the required size while closing the frame. The usage of this device will allow the beekeeper to save a significant amount of time for performing other technological operations.
ECOLOGY OF POLYLEPIS SPP FORESTS, AND PROPOSAL FOR ITS CONSERVATION IN THE ANDEAN REGION OF TACNA, PERU
Authors: Morales-Aranibar Luis Fortunato , Rojas de la Puente Edward Enrique , Costa Juan F.
Published: June 2019

The forests of Polylepis (queñoales) is one of the most important Andean forest ecosystems and with the greatest impact due to human activities. The objectives of the study were to determine the distribution and diversity of queñoa forests in the Andean region of Tacna, Peru. With this information, We propose the restoration and conservation plan for the Polylepis spp. For this purpose plots of 500 m2 were established. The sampling was simple random, taking a population census in each of the sample units in the 4 provinces (Jorge Basadre, Tacna, Tarata and Candarave). The total evaluation area was 27,491 hectares. The presence of two Polylepis species was identified. Polylepis rugulosa Bitter was registered in 9 districts with an altitudinal range of 3050 to 4226 m.a.s.l. in 6 life zones. Polylepis tarapacana Phil is distributed in the provinces of Tarata and Tacna within 3 districts. P. tarapacana occurs in an altitudinal range between 4230 and 4750 m.a.s.l. in 5 life zones. The tall and diameter of tree were variable for two species. The human impact for P. rugulosa was recorded: Not Intervented (76%), Semi Intervening (21%) and Intervened (3%). For P. tarapacana it was: Not Intervented (77%), Semi Interventions (21%) and Intervened (2%). According to the data gathered, the conservation plan is proposed, consisting of 5 guidelines: 1) education, 2) communication and capacity building, 3) conservation and sustainable management, 4) policies and regulations, and 5) research and monitoring.
ENTREPRENEURIAL “BLUE” PRACTICES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND RESOURCES EFFICIENCY
Authors: Nikolova Neli
Published: June 2019

Тhe article considers smart solutions for our contemporary sustainable development. The achievements of nature and physics provide innovative opportunities for changing the economy, creating new jobs and added value, and optimizing the resources used. The entrepreneurial way to do this is the blue economy which uses technological innovations based on the perfection of ecosystems where nothing is lost. The proposed practices along with our environment build sustainable models with the help of which business regains its competitive position.
SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF PEAT EXTRACTION FIELDS
Authors: Konstantinova Elina , Brunina Liga , Persevica Aija
Published: June 2019

Peatland self-recovery after peat extraction is restricted and without any purposeful actions, recovery of the territories is disproportionately long. The abandoned peat fields are not only worthless from the point of view of biodiversity but are also large SEG issuers. By developing an inventory of extracted peat fields, it has been concluded that there are about 18,000 ha that are not re-cultivated and for now have lost their natural functions. The peat formation in these areas and ecosystems functions are disturbed or destroyed. There are a number of potential ways of re-cultivation of degraded peatlands that can provide different types of benefits – either to carry out economic activities or to re-naturalise territories. Each of the potential types of re-cultivation is able to deliver different types of benefits. Landowners should select the most appropriate and acceptable option for re-cultivation based on socio-economic, environmental and climate change mitigation criteria. Based on the research and the results obtained, a model for the sustainable use of peat extraction fields has been developed, that provides support for the planning of further use of degraded peatlands. The developed model provides information about financial, economic and environmental benefits of implementing a particular form of re-cultivation. Developed model ensures the optimal information balance between GHG emission reductions, ecosystem service assessments and socio-economic aspects of land use. Based on the findings and using the developed model, it is possible to implement deliberative management decisions regarding degraded peatlands, evaluate potential re-cultivation costs, plan the expected financial return, assess the benefits of climate mitigation and take into account natural values.
RETURN MIGRATION TRENDS IN LATVIA: RE-ATTRACTING THE MAIN HUMAN RESOURCE FOR SUSTAINABLE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Apsite-Berina Elina , Burgmanis Girts , Krisjane Zaiga
Published: June 2019

This study is devoted to the research of human resources as a main source of sustainable regional development in Latvia. It is focused on two key concepts of human capital and migration. The aim of the study is to explore return migration geographies by looking at young return migrants as a resource and preconditions for sustainable regional development essential to Latvia.Return migration to the regions of Latvia is examined by two main research questions. What are the most recent return migrant characteristics in Latvia? How does return migration of young Latvians translates into regional geographies of return migration?Drawing on most recent available statistical data we elaborate on the return migration trends in Latvia, look at particular geographies of return migrants to the regions of Latvia. Findings show that return migrants are working age accompanied with their offspring’s, majority not married and return from another European country to the capital and other largest cities and surrounding municipalities. Even more, only ethnicity and country of previous residence serve as return migration predictor.
THE EVALUATION OF STABLE ISOTOPIC RATIOS 13C AND 15N IN HUMIC ACIDS ALONG A FEN PEAT PROFILE
Authors: Krumins Janis , Klavins Maris , Krukovskis Raimonds , Viksna Arturs , Busa Lauma
Published: June 2019

Mires are known as consistent environmental archives, but humic acids are the fraction of peat that is most recalcitrant and refractory to organic matter degradation, thus data on environmental changes during mire development can be recorded into them. This work was focused on the studies of stable isotopic ratios delta carbon-13 and delta nitrogen-15, and their distribution in humic acids within fen peat layers of different depths and peat composition. The variations in delta carbon-13 reflect isotopic variations in peat-forming plants over time and can be considered as a function of photosynthetic pathway that is being used to fix carbon dioxide. At the same time, variations in delta nitrogen-15 show nitrogen fixation in peat-forming plants and can be traced along with peat decomposition degree and depth. Properties of humic acids were studied in 2018 at 3 fens located in Latvia and Southern Finland, and comparatively they show properties. The method used for the determination of stable isotopes was the isotope-ratio mass spectrometry that was performed in the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Latvia. Results on delta carbon-13 indicate signal of C3 peat-forming plants, while signal of C4 peat-forming plants is not evident, which can be explained by non-efficient carbon dioxide fixation in fen vegetation. Results on delta nitrogen-15 show variations in nitrogen fixation in fen vegetation. Data show nitrogen fixation in terrestrial plants, however significant shifts in absolute isotope values indicate dependence on variations in peat decomposition degree and botanical composition. Data suggest that differences in peat botanical composition, decomposition degree and site dependent characteristics reflect in differences in delta carbon-13 and delta nitrogen-15 variations
KUPRAVA CLAY DEPOSIT RESEARCH COMPARISON
Authors: Pužule Valentīna , Noviks Gotfrids
Published: June 2019

Clay minerals and their structures are extensively studied in the world, both from the point of view of geological research and material science. The aim of the research is to identify and summarize the resources of the Kuprava clay deposit, their placement in the field and selective extraction possibilities. Total clay resources in the Kuprava area are significantly more than 16 million m³. The clays are located in several uneven layers with relatively different characteristics. Until now, clay has been studied in separate layers for the production of bricks and high quality lightweight expanded clay aggregate (LECA). The work is based on using and comparing the geological survey data of 1951 to 1992, the latest laboratory test data, as well as the technical documentation of the former Kuprava factory. The study also includes a review of two recent studies of the composition of Kuprava Member clay. New eco-innovative composite materials require clay with a fully defined composition and properties. Clay extraction must be selective - on separate layers, so that the use can be accurately determined by the research. Cartographic material has also been added to accurately locate each of the four fields studied.
SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP AS ONE OF THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES IN RURAL AREAS OF LATVIA
Authors: Jeromanova-Maura Silva , Šukjurovs Ilmārs
Published: June 2019

Since 1 of April 2018, it is possible to register social entrepreneurship in Latvia as one of the type of business and to take advantage that is only suitable for this type of business. The study analyses how coud social entrepreneurship become one of the opportunities to address social problems, directly in rural areas, where today in Latvia is concentrated the largest population of a socially unprotected groups. This means that, while developing social enterprises and solving social problems in the regions of Latvia, at the same time, also address other issues that are actual today – lack of labour force. For entrepreneurs in rural areas, the lack of labour is the most significant, and there is no problem in Latvian regions with finding a place of residence. The development of social entrepreneurship would also be a contributory factor in the fact that the new generation would not leave the countryside, but try to build up their business using existing infrastructure, including a rural school, kindergarten – it helps to them continue to work as well. In the Latvian countryside most are farmers and crafts companies, whose business is most often expressed seasonality. At the rural areas farmers can support with works during sowing and harvesting, and some works during growing period on organic farms. There is also a growing lack of labour force in the sales companies who support farmers with new technologies, especially in aftersales – service departments. Social entrepreneurship could be one of the solutions, especially since it is very seasonal for repairs, so that it is possible to focus the work on the season by successfully management with the contingent in the countryside. There is a great opportunities to make cooperation with local authorities on this issue, the role of the social business in the development and social Affairs of the rural environment should be clarified. As a result of successful cooperation, social enterprises can become an important contribution to local authorities in addressing the societal challenges of the municipality. The study analyses how important to develop this model of cooperation, as it needs to convince local leaders before work on regional reform begins.
CEREAL SPECIES EFFECT ON PROTEIN CONTENT IN PEA GRAINS IN LEGUME CEREAL MIXTURES DEPENDING CROPPING SYSTEM
Authors: Zarina Livija , Konosonoka Inara Helena
Published: June 2019

Within the European Union’s Seventh Framework Programme project “Enhancing of legumes growing in Europe through sustainable cropping for protein supply for food and feed” (EUROLEGUME) producing of the knowledge required for the implementation of legume supported cropping system in sustainable agriculture was done. The main objective of this study was to investigate spring cereal species effect on protein content in pea grains depending cropping system (organic and conventional). The research involved two field pea (Pisum sativum var.arvense L.) cultivars – ‘Kirke’ and ‘Bruno’, and two spring cereal species: spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and oat (Avena sativa L.) grown in mixtures. The results demonstrated that in pea-cereal mixtures cereal species can affect the protein content of grains of pea. Depending cultivar the effect was different. In grains of cv ‘Bruno’ crude protein content was highest; the higher the protein of grains fixed in yield from organic field.
SAFETY OF ARTIFICIAL SUPERINTELLIGENCE
Authors: Zorins Aleksejs , Grabusts Peter
Published: June 2019

The paper analyses an important problem of cyber security from human safety perspective which is usually described as data and/or computer safety itself without mentioning the human. There are numerous scientific predictions of creation of artificial superintelligence, which could arise in the near future. That is why the strong necessity for protection of such a system from causing any farm arises. This paper reviews approaches and methods already presented for solving this problem in a single article, analyses its results and provides future research directions.
USING ACTIVITY THEORY FOR MODELLING TRANSFORMATIVE DIGITAL LEARNING
Authors: Mykhailenko Olena , Blayone Todd , Žogla Irena , Lubkina Velta
Published: June 2019

In support of ongoing educational transformation in post-Soviet nations, this article positions activity theory (in the tradition of Engeström) as a framework for modelling changes towards innovative forms of collabo-rative, fully online digital learning. A strength of activi-ty theory is that it adopts a holistic socio-technical per-spective in which teachers, learners, technologies, peda-gogical values, roles/identities and rules/cultures are considered together as interdependent elements of col-lective activity. An illustrative example is offered to model a current and envisioned (target) activity system. In addition, a few considerations to guide research are offered. These include an emphasis on measuring the general readiness of students and teachers, and the need to explore gender divides. The goal is to help envision program transformations towards online learning at two partner universities as part of Ukrainian and Lat-vian, government-funded projects.
IMITATION MODELING OF SOCIAL INVESTMENTS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION.
Authors: Kūkoja Katrīne , Rajevska Feliciana
Published: June 2019

Previous researches show, that social investments in early childhood (until age of 6) are very important, and one of the main types of social investment in this period of time is quality early childhood education and care services (henceforth – ECEC services). Social investments in early childhood have the highest return in human capital, especially for disadvantaged groups of the society. Literature suggests that positive effect of available and qualitative ECEC services can be observed in many areas of life, for example, through improved education indicators, increased participation of the women in the labour market, increased work productivity, higher birth rates, etc. However, the attendance of ECEC services varies considerably between different European Union (henceforth – EU) countries. The aim of this paper is to analyze social investment effect in early childhood in EU countries with high (Denmark), medium (Latvia) and low (Croatia) ECEC service attendance rates, so to find out if and how ECEC service attendance rate in these countries influences such indicators as rate of early leavers from education and training, school graduation rates and female employment rate. To see how situation may change due to the ECEC attendance rate changes in each country analyses was be carried out with imitation model options. This article describes the imitation model, which provides an opportunity to analyze the current situation and compare social investments between different EU countries. The model is designed using ISEE system STELLA MODELING and Imitation Software environment, and it is governed by the criteria that are based on literature studies, as well as analyses of statistic data. An additional benefit is that this model can be adjusted and used to evaluate other countries social investment tendencies as well. Research results show, that not all indicators that have been positively connected with ECEC attendance rate in previous studies have been positively influenced by ECEC attendance rate in chosen case study countries. Analyses showed that only in Croatia positive connections can be observed when it comes to all three indicators. Further studies should be carried out on this topic to get a deeper understanding on ECEC attendance rate effect on these and other indicators, that in the previous studies have been positively linked with ECEC attendance rate.
PROBABILISTIC INFERENCE FOR INTERVAL PROBABILITIES IN DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES
Authors: Uzhga-Rebrov Oļegs , Kuleshova Galina
Published: June 2019

The present paper considers one approach to Bayes’ formula based probabilistic inference under interval values of relevant probabilities; the necessity of it is caused by the impossibility to obtain reliable deterministic values of the required probabilistic evaluations. The paper shows that the approach proves to be the best from the viewpoint of the required amount of calculations and visual representation of the results. The execution of the algorithm of probabilistic inference is illustrated using a classical task of decision making related to oil mining. For visualisation purposes, the state of initial and target information is modelled using probability trees.
ADAPTIVE KALMAN FILTER FORECASTING FOR ROAD MAINTAINERS
Authors: Pekša Jānis
Published: June 2019

The article considers the road monitoring weather-stations which collects raw observations that are processed to be able to make the necessary forecasting for future decisions. For the road maintainers those predictions are crucial to make decisions daily. When it comes to the winter season when road safety is very important; however, the road condition is also affected by the snow and icing. In order to improve safety on the road network the road maintainers are trying to use every possible way to be able to provide it. A number of methods have been studied and compared to clarify the parameter required by Kalman filter, which can be improved by making forecasting more accurate. Several road monitoring weather-stations are merged into one region because they are relatively close to each other and it is assumed that there are common conditions in one region that may indicate changes in road conditions. The corresponding algorithms are applied for each region and then compared to each other. Adaptive Kalman filter is generalized in the relevant article in order to have a general understanding of how to correctly apply the approach. The main result of this article is a comparison with the different methods, which are finally compiled in a single table.
RESEARCH OF HUMAN FATIGUE AND MEASUREMENT PARAMETERS FOR WORKABILITY ASSESSMENT
Authors: Eriņš Matīss , Minejeva Oļesja , Markovičs Zigurds , Lauznis Juris , Kivlenieks Raivis
Published: June 2019

Human fatigue is reduced working capability for certain period of time as the result of unusual or prolonged workload. Fatigue arises when the body’s energy requirements exceed its supply. Fatigue first manifests as reduced concentration capability causing movement coordination and precision disruption leading to decreasing workability. Fatigue is an object of research in physiology, psychology, work ergonomics, medicine, and biotechnology where each domain has a focus on mental fatigue. The functional state in the context of professional activity is defined as a complex of characteristics of functions and qualities that determine the fulfilment of labour activity. Furthermore, a comprehensive estimation of subject functional state in combination with other factors like subject self-assessment and objective performance tests (cognitive load tests) is a necessary input for the evaluation of workability and efficiency on task. The heterogeneous nature of fatigue as a systemic manifestation requires analysis of multiple key parameters which are relevant to the specific type. The current feasibility study focuses on human biological signal from electrical activity of heart, brain, muscles and skin potentials as well as temperature, position, and respiration to obtain diagnostic parameters reflecting the state of cardiovascular, muscles, and central nervous systems for physiological monitoring of vital signs. The fatigue physiological parameter and feature formalization aim to support the development of a platform with complex passive multi-level fatigue monitoring system and workability evaluation system designed in order to provide an integrated service.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF WEB-BASED IDEA MANAGEMENT SYSTEM BASED ON PRACTICAL EVIDENCE
Authors: Miķelsone Elīna , Volkova Tatjana , Lielā Elita
Published: June 2019

During the last decade software developers have put increasing focus on developing information systems supporting decision making, collaboration, knowledge and idea management. Idea management systems (IMS) - manageable systematic tools to generate and evaluate ideas - are an important element within this trend.   Web-based IMS are used by many well-known organizations, e.g. Volkswagen, Cisco, Microsoft, Lidl, GE Healthcare, Nestle, Procter and Gamble, Tchibo, Henkel, Roche, Fujitsu, Boeing, Goodyear, Xerox, Panasonic, Pentax, Siemens, Virgin trains etc. Although the research on web-based IMS and how these systems are applied practically is very limited. Therefore, the authors of this research aim to explore practical web-based IMS application and potential benefits. Research aim is based on theoretical and empirical approaches to deliver understanding on how web- based IMS materializes and what are potential benefits from its application to increase organizational effectiveness. Web-based IMS application will be researched by analysing separate use-cases and reprocessing the results using content analysis. 1st step – analysis of 100 users cases based on available information about application cases from homepages of web-based IMS developers. 2nd step –analysis of the results from 1st step. The analysis will be conducted by analysing information from protocols of use-cases. Protocols will be organized as category maps. Category maps are based on literature studies (finding deductive elements with available data), on data (inductive elements) and organized around Adaptive Structuration Theory elements. As the 3rd step use case descriptions and comparison will be applied. The results show that the web-based IMS are universally applicable in different organisation for fulfilling the various tasks. Benefits of web-based IMS application could be divided into 4 main groups towards benefits of- the idea management, innovation management, cooperation, and overall effectiveness of organization. Academic contribution: (1) most extensive research of web-based IMS based on 100 use cases; (2) empirical overview of potential benefits of web-based IMS application; (3) Development of IMS use case analysis protocol applicable in further researches. Practical contribution: (1) Empirical overview of web-based IMS application experience in various organizations that can stimulate the application of web-based IMS in other organizations and to deliver benefits to organization; (2) The benefits are summarized and can help in decision making whether to apply and implement a web- based IMS in and an organization.
A METHODOLOGY TO DIAGNOSE ICT GOVERNANCE PROCESS BASED ON ISO/IEC 38500 STANDARD. CASE STUDY: ECUADORIAN RETAIL ORGANIZATION
Authors: Robalino-López Andrés , Real Daniel , Aniscenko Zanna
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this paper is to show the application of a new methodology approach to diagnose the impact of management of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) with the reference frame ISO/IEC 38500 inside the organizations. It is based on the government's analysis of organization’s technological resource management, being the strategic axis part of business strategic planning and its ICT Governance, effectiveness and efficiency, and the value of ICT for its guidelines and the risks involved in its development to optimize the use of organization’s resources. In the first stage, a documentary research was carried out as an essential part of this study and an interview with an expert; Then a tool (questionnaire) was designed to collect, measure and evaluate data on aspects and components of the ISO/IEC 38500 standard. A case study of Ecuadorian retail organization was carried out. Once the information was processed, the respective indicators were obtained that helped to identify current status of ICT governance processes of the organization. With the obtained indicators we could see which principles are the ones that characterize this sector, in which they put the greatest amount of resources; be they human or financial. It was also evident that the two dimensions on which the study was based on have very different results, since emphasis was placed on what corresponds.
FRACTAL PROPERTIES OF MICROPLASMA BREAKDOWN AND STRUCTURAL HETEROGENEITY OF SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIALS
Authors: Khanin Samuil , Shashkina Antonina
Published: June 2019

This work presents experimental results on the study of current-voltage characteristics and oscillograms of microplasma pulses of the p-n-junction avalanche breakdown. Based on the latter, the pulse duration distributions are determined. As a result, it is shown that microplasma noise has fractal properties. The latter form the basis of avalanche breakdown types developed classification. The correlation between the fractal dimension of microplasma noise and structural inhomogeneities of functional semiconductor structures is revealed.
DETERMINATION OF CHAMBER AND PISTON GEOMETRY FOR A ROTARY TYPE EXPANSION MACHINE
Authors: Perminov Andrey , Zhuravlev Yury , Lukyanov Yury , Tikhonov Sergey , Ilyin Alexander
Published: June 2019

The article deals with the determination of chamber and piston geometry for a rotary expansion machine. Analytical expressions for the working surface area of piston and for chamber volume are derived. Three defining parameters of the expansion machine were obtained: gas dynamic machine constant Cp; constant M0 connecting torque and Cp; the main dimensionless parameter of the machine Q0, which relates the volume of the chamber and the torque.
PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AS A KEY FACTOR IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF ENGINEERING EDUCATION
Authors: Zbaravska Lesia , Chaikovska Olha , Taras Hutsol , Slobodian Sergii , Dumanskyi Oleksandr
Published: June 2019

The integration of Ukraine into the European community is impossible without changes in the education sphere. The implementation of such projects of the European Union as "Horizon 2020” provides the collaboration between experts in Agriculture and Engineering. The results of the questionnaire conducted by “Agro Survey” agency showed the lack of student’s practical knowledge in Ukrainian Engineering and Agricultural universities. It is obvious that the quality of education in Ukrainian technical universities doesn't meet the requirements of the European labour market. Getting theoretical knowledge has no value until students can apply it for practical purposes. We suggest that a subject like Physics should be practice-oriented. If the Physics course at technical universities integrates theory with practice, students will be better prepared for their future career. The purpose of the study is to define the basic principles of professional competence as the key factor for improving the quality of future engineer’s training in the process of studying Physics. To select and interpret the factual material, concepts and theories the theoretical analysis of philosophical, psychological and pedagogical literature on research was used in the paper. The pedagogical experiment was carried out on the basis of 4 universities in different regions of Ukraine and involved 159 respondents (151 students and 8 university teachers). To determine the strategies for implementation of the profession-based tasks in Physics course we carried out specially designed questionnaires for students majoring in Agrarian Engineering and university teachers. One of the necessary conditions for future engineer training is professional orientation in studying. We suppose that to consider the relationship between a comprehensive Physics course and the disciplines of professional and practical training the in-depth analysis should be performed. First of all, it will help to determine Physics knowledge, abilities and skills that should be used in student’s further professional training. Second of all, it will enable the most effective use of engineering-based tasks in Physics classes. However, knowledge of basic Engineering and General Theoretical subjects is not applied by the students of Technical High School for a long-period of university study. The results of the survey have shown that studying major subjects at a later stage doesn’t motivate students to learn Natural Science and Engineering disciplines. We can conclude that profession-based tasks in Physics class contribute to the formation of a system of natural knowledge, practical skills and abilities. They stimulate the students’ cognitive interest in Physics as a science, help to better absorb material of other disciplines, develop creative abilities and influence the formation of persistent motifs for obtaining knowledge of professional disciplines.
METHOD FOR MEASURING MOTION PARAMETERS OF MOVING OBJECTS
Authors: Dichev Dimitar , Zhelezarov Iliya , Karadzhov Tsanko , Madzharov Nikolay , Diakov Dimitar
Published: June 2019

The paper considers a new method for measuring the angular deviations of moving objects. A specific measuring system is proposed to measure ship roll, pitch, heel and trim. The system consists of two measurement channels operating in parallel. The first channel is built on the position properties of a physical pendulum so as to build the base vertical. The second channel ensures the dynamic accuracy of the system. The principal of operation of the second channel involves correction of the signals from the first channel by using information obtained from linear MEMS accelerometers. To increase system measurement accuracy, a signal processing module is used through the Kalman filter algorithm.
DETERMINING THE POSITIONS OF THE ELEMENTS FOR THE 3-2-1 PRINCIPLE OF LOCATION IN A SOLIDWORKS ADD-IN
Authors: Mihaylov Oleg
Published: June 2019

This paper presents the methodology behind the positioning of modular fixtures (for the 3-2-1 principle in particular) in a CAFD application (add-in) for SolidWorks. The application is integrated into SolidWorks and it’s used to automate the design process of modular fixturing devices. Part of it is a methodology for automated determination of the positions of the modular elements by using rule-based logic and mathematical formulas.
REDUCING RISK FACTORS IN THE WORKPLACE OF THE LASER SYSTEM OPERATOR
Authors: Narica Pāvels , Martinsone Inese
Published: June 2019

Laser processing of materials takes an increasing place in production processes. Improving the performance, improving the quality of processing is not a complete list of the positive aspects of the introduction of laser processing, but there are a number of points that need to be paid attention to during the operation of laser systems - these are issues related to safety. The following risk factors are specific to laser systems: firstly, the laser beam itself, effects on the organs of vision, direct thermal effects on the skin and tissues, secondly, harmful products resulting from the interaction of the laser beam and the material being processed. Aerosols, smoke and dust have different effects on the human body, especially on the respiratory system and the publication considers the risks associated with the release of harmful products during laser processing and the existing methods for reducing the concentration of harmful substances in the working area with specific examples.
MODELLING AND INVESTIGATION OF THE DEPENDENCE OF SUPERHYDROPHOBIC PROPERTIES OF NANOSURFACES ON THE TOPOLOGY OF MICROCHANNELS
Authors: Guseynov Sharif E. , Aleksejeva Jekaterina V.
Published: June 2019

In the Cassie-Baxter state anisotropic superhydrophobic surfaces have high lubricating properties. Such superhydrophobic surfaces are used in medical implants, aircraft industry, vortex bioreactors etc. In spite of the fact that quantitative understanding of fluid dynamics on anisotropic superhydrophobic surfaces has been broadened substantially for last several years, there still are some unsolved problems in this field. This work investigates dynamics of a liquid on unidirectional superhydrophobic surfaces in the Cassie-Baxter state, when surface texture is filled with gas and, consequently, the liquid virtually is located on some kind of an air cushion. Energy of the interphase boundary liquid-gas is much smaller than energy of the interphase boundary solid-liquid, that is why the contact angle at wetting such surfaces differs a lot from the Young contact angle and depends on contact area ratio of liquid-gas and liquid-solid in visible contact of liquid and surface. Considering difference in energy obtained if we slightly shift the three-phase contact line, expression for macroscopic equilibrium contact angle, which describes the Cassie-Baxter state, can be deduced. In the work the design formula for computing local-slip length profiles of liquid on the considered superhydrophobic surfaces is obtained.
DEVELOPING LATHES POSTPROCESSOR GENERATING CYCLES OF PROCESSING GROOVES
Authors: Kaldashev Tsvetan
Published: June 2019

This article explores the possibility of developing a post-processor generating circles for radial and facsimile grooves in PTC Creo environments using a generalized postprocessor G-POST and a specialized language FIL (Factory Interface Language). The proposed development approach can also be applied to post-processor generating cycles for rough and fine turning (G71, G72 and G70).
STUDY OF ERROR ESTABLISHMENT IN MILLING MACHINES WITH 5 AXES
Authors: Kaldashev Tsvetan , Hadjiiski Petar
Published: June 2019

This report examines the accuracy of rotary die processing on a 5 axes machine and a special bolt-disk system. Faults that affect the accuracy and their measurement and reduction within acceptable limits are analyzed. As a result of the measurement, a virtual model of the radial beating of the workpiece relative to the actual axis of rotation of the machine was developed.
Autonomic and endothelial dysfunction with neurocirculatory asthenia in young men of call-up age
Authors: Ivanov Vladimir S. , Levina Lilia I. , Ivanov Sergey N. , Vasilenko Vladimir S.
Published: June 2019

Young men of call-up age with neurocirculatory were asthenia were examined for autonomic regulation of cardiac activity and vasodilatory reserve of the arteries. The functional state of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) was studied with the aid of rythmography with analyse of heart rate variability. The following parameters were studied: vegetative regulation type, responsiveness of departments of ANS and autonomic provision of cardiac activity. The type of vegetative regulation was determined by the mean value of RR interval and indication of the heart rate variability (∆RR). Reactivity of parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions of the ANS and autonomic support of cardiac activity were investigated using breathing test. To ensure vegetative dysadaptation cardiac activity includes reaction with low vegetative coverage of both divisions of the ANS and paradoxical reaction in which there is a decrease in ∆RRmax (instead of increase) and an increase in ∆RRmin instead of decrease. These reactions indicate autonomic dysfunction. Vasodilatory reserve of the arteries was investigated using ultrasonography of the brachial artery with compressive sample and determination of endothelium-dependent vasodilation. It was found that in boys with neurocirculatory asthenia vagotonic and sympathetic types of vegetative regulation are often determined by disadaptative vegetative provision of cardiac activity, which is accompanied by endothelial dysfunction with reduced vasodilator reserve of the arteries.