bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Changes in the Content of Photosynthetic Pigments of Dominant Macrophytes in the Bardača Fishpond Area
Authors: Maksimović Tanja , Lolić Svjetlana , Kukavica Biljana
Published: October 2020

In this paper, changes in the content of photosynthetic pigments during the vegetation season in the leaves of Phragmites communis Trin., Salvinia natans (L.) All., Trapa natans L. and Utricularia vulgaris L. in the area of Bardača fishpond (Sinjak pond) were monitored. Physical and chemical characteristics of water are defined in order to determine their association with the content of photosynthetic pigments. The obtained results indicate the specificity in the content of photosynthetic pigments between aquatic macrophytes and significant variations during the vegetation season. The maximum content of pigments was determined in the leaves of the emerged species, while the minimum content was measured in the submerged and floating leaves. The investigated macrophytic species showed a similar trend in the total chlorophyll content during the vegetation period; with two maximums recorded – May and September, while the minimum values were recorded with the senescence process (October). Total chlorophyll and carotenoids were in a negative correlation with temperature, pH, saturation, water transparency and orthophosphate content in water. On the other hand, they were in a positive correlation with the content of nitrates in water. The correlation analysis of the physical and chemical parameters of water quality and the concentration of macrophytes photosynthetic pigments showed a significant influence of certain abiotic factors on the photosynthetic pigments’ content in the leaves of Phragmites communis Trin., Salvinia natans (L.) All., Trapa natans L. and Utricularia vulgaris L.
Effects of Land Use Changes on the Soil Physicochemical Properties in South-Western Algeria
Authors: Khadidja Daoudi , Tayeb Sitayeb
Published: October 2020

This study shows the impact of the reforestation program by some tree species (Pinus halepensis, Cupressus sempervirens and Eucalyptus camaldulensis) on the soil physicochemical parameters in south-western Algeria steppe. The study was realized on soil samples from the Touadjeur site. One hundred soil samples were taken from the field, followed by physicochemical analyses in the laboratory. A comparison of the soil elements between reforested and unreforested sites considered as a control was carried out. The results show that there are differences in the physicochemical parameters of the soil between the reforestation and the non-reforestation ones constituted by a steppe vegetation. The ANOVA one way test shows a highly significant difference change in soil physical parameters, moisture, holding capacity and saturated hydraulic conductivity, but no change in apparent density, actual density and color. Also, from a chemical point of view, the differences concern the organic matter, organic carbon, pH and certain soil contents. The main differences in soil properties between the reforestation sites and the control site, reflect the consequences of forest management adopted by the forest services, most probably the choice of reforestation species.
Influence of Plant Species and Grasslands Quality on Sequestration of Soil Organic Carbon
Authors: Novák Ján , Jankowski Kazimierz , Sosnowski Jacek , Malinowska Elżbieta , Wiśniewska-Kadżajan Beata
Published: October 2020

Soil carbon sequestration plays an important role in mitigating the anthropogenic increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations. Pastures and meadows are the significant localities for the deposition of soil organic carbon (SOC). The objective was the comparison of the impact of plant species and their quality on the deposition of SOC under the grasslands in 18 variants of meadows and pastures at the original unfertilized soils, the overfertilized soils by organic fertilizers in the form of excrements and the soils after the ecological regeneration by regrassing. The plots 5, 8, 9 and 10 were used on a long-term basis as old semi-natural sheep pastures from the 15 century. We took into consideration the deposits of SOC and Nt in soil. The old semi-natural pasture proved the most intensive transformation and accumulation of SOC (even 5.60%) and the highest values were measured in the depth I (0–100 mm) soil layer, the concentrations decreased along with the depth in all treatments. At these plots, there was the lowest yield of dry matter and quality (EGQ). The yield of dry matter in t.ha−1, the number of species, EGQ and C:N in the depth I with the significant impact on the species variability, which were selected by Monte-Carlo permutation test explain up to 47% of the total variability. According to the result of “forward selection” in RDA analysis, out of all significant factors, the number of species has the biggest impact on the total species variability, which represents 17% of the total variability. The total evaluation indicates that from the agricultural aspect of utilization, a more favourable quite high content of SOC was deposited at the ecologically regenerated grasslands by the additional sowing of the valuable autochthonous plant species.
Review of the Monograph “Unconditional Basic Income. A Revolutionary Reform of the 21st Century Society” By Maciej Szlinder, Pwn, Warsaw, 2018, P. 310
Authors: Wójcicki Włodzimierz
Published: October 2020

The economic forum currently sees the postulate of a multi-dimensional analysis of economic issues, as exemplified by behavioural and institutional economics, cliometrics, wikinomics and others – taking into consideration of the achievements of cultural anthropology, sociology, ethics, philosophy, the history of economics, as well as selected exact sciences, such as mathematics and physics. The redistribution economics, the relationship between capital and labour, the issues of the precariat, guaranteed minimum income for each citizen – both conditional and unconditional, which is a new idea for economy and the society – become more and more apparent in the aforementioned areas. The idea stems from the criticism of neoliberalism, and it interferes with the system of values shaped under capitalism, the role of the welfare state, the welfare system from the perspective of institutions and beneficiaries, who would replace their current privileges with inalienable rights. The author recommends unconditional minimum income upon providing a characteristic of a wide scope of postulated solutions, implemented on an experimental scale and applied in the practice of social policy. The monograph, while constituting the author’s moderate manifesto, provides a wide – in terms of time, authors and trends in economy – review of the standpoints on the participation in the national income.
Forest dieback process in the Polish mountains in the past and nowadays – literature review on selected topics
Authors: Bałazy Radomir
Published: October 2020

Mountain forests constitute one of the most diverse ecosystems, not only in Europe but also all over the world. Mountain ranges, which frequently encompass multiple countries, constitute a unique link between various natural areas, which are very often completely different from the historical point, or which are characterized by different use and management types. Although the role of mountain forests is relatively well recognized nowadays, in the distant past, these areas were poorly penetrated, mainly due to the unfavourable climate and natural topography, which discouraged not only from settling down but also from moving around. Despite the fact that mountains had been the object of interest of mining, weaving, and glassmaking industries for hundreds of years, dramatic changes in the stands in these areas were sealed by the industrial revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The purpose of this paper is the analysis of forest dieback process in the mountain ranges of Sudetes and Western Carpathians placed in Poland. Stress factors have been divided into three main groups, however, it should be remembered that it is a very simplified division and some factors could be partially found in the anthropogenic, as well as biotic, and even abiotic factor groups. Neither the beginning nor the end of deforestation process was defined precisely in the study, which was deliberate in taking into account constant changes in the ecosystems. Generally, three periods may be distinguished here, regarding the spruce forests dieback process. Typically anthropogenic deforestation, caused by the industrialization of the areas during the industrial revolution and earlier, deforestation in the years 1970–1980 and partially before the year 2000 (Western Carpathians) caused by a set of various stress factors and the latest period, that is, generally understood climate change.

The last several years have particularly contributed to the expansion of detailed knowledge about the dependencies and the influence of abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic factors on the health condition of spruce trees. Although models have already been developed, which describe the course of insect outbreaks, the growth and health condition of spruces, or climate factors, no model has been developed so far that would allow to depict the process of hitherto deforestation, and to enable modelling the forthcoming changes. It seems that the development of such tool, not only from the forest management point of view, would constitute a milestone on the way to precision forestry.
Monument trees in the Kampinos national Park (central Poland): A review
Authors: Szczepkowski Andrzej , Tyburski Łukasz , Sułkowska Małgorzata
Published: October 2020

The paper presents the history of the protection of trees with special values, the current state of monument trees and the preliminary description of trees meeting the minimal circumference criteria to be regarded as natural monuments in the Kampinos National Park (KNP). The study was conducted in the years 2017–2019. In the KNP, there are 69 living trees with a status of natural monuments. Most of them are oaks – 56 specimens, Scots pine – 6 specimens, small-leaved lime – 5 specimens and European hornbeam and European ash – 1 specimen each. Among all, 27 trees grow individually and the other 42 grow in 7 groups. About 200 trees were recognised as meeting the minimal circumference criteria to be regarded as natural monuments. The thickest size tree in the KNP is the black poplar with a circumference of 805 cm, growing in the enclave of Ruska Kępa, and the thickest monument tree in the KNP area is Dąb Kobędzy (Kobendza Oak) with a circumference of 582 cm. Almost a half of the living monument trees (34 specimens) are situated in Kampinos Forest District. In Kromnów, there are 20, and in Laski Forest District 15 specimens of monument trees are mapped. Living monument trees were found in 15 (out of 17) forest subdistricts. The highest number of monument trees was found in Rózin Forest Subdistrict (16) and in Wilków Forest Subdistrict (10). The lowest number – one specimen per forest subdistrict – was found in six forest subdistricts (Dąbrówka, Grabina, Janówek, Krzywa Góra, Rybitew and Zamczysko). In total, there are around 300 specimens of natural monuments and trees meeting the minimal circumference criteria to be regarded as natural monuments, which means that there is one tree of this category for each 125 ha surface of the KNP.
Growth traits of natural regeneration of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) in south-eastern Poland
Authors: Masternak Katarzyna , Głębocka Katarzyna , Surowaniec Krystian , Kowalczyk Krzysztof
Published: October 2020

In recent years, particular attention has been paid to enhancing the meaning of natural regeneration, which is a part of the implementation of the concept of sustainable development and is one of the pillars of the natural direction of forest silviculture. Since the middle of the last century, the contribution of natural regeneration in Poland has been steadily increasing.

The paper presents the analysis of density and variability of growth traits of natural regeneration of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) in south-eastern Poland. The study involved four compartments, which were prepared with the use of tiller and plough (active and double mouldboard). Density of seedlings, their height and root collar diameter, were measured.

Density and growth characteristics of seedlings were higher at the tiller area and furrow compared with nonscarified soil and ridge. The highest cover with herbaceous plant was reported in ridges and non-scarified soil, but in most of the analysed compartments, it had no effect on the density of seedlings. It was found that different methods for soil preparation create different conditions for germination of seeds, which is reflected in the number of seedlings and its growth traits.
Effect of pre-harvest salicylic acid treatments on the quality and shelf life of the ‘Cresthaven’ peach cultivar
Authors: Erogul Deniz , Özsoydan İsmail
Published: October 2020

A good peach fruit should have properties of high quality, as these properties directly affect the shelf life. This study aims to determine the effects of different salicylic acid (SA) treatments in the pre-harvest period on the ‘Cresthaven’ peach cultivar on the fruit quality at harvest and after storage at 2°C (8 days) plus shelf life at 20°C (2 days). Fruits with SA treatments have better characteristics such as fruit weight, fruit flesh firmness, total antioxidant content, total phenol content and titratable acidity level at harvest and after storage plus shelf life. With treatments, no changes were observed in the total soluble solids both at harvest and after storage plus shelf life. SA treatments decreased loss of fruit flesh firmness and loss of acidity after shelf life, compared with the control. In fruits with 2 mM SA acid treatment, the reduction in fruit firmness and acidity loss were the least, and as a result of the study it was determined as the most effective pre-harvest SA concentration that could be used in the ‘Cresthaven’ peach variety.
The effect of planting, seeding and soil preparation on the regeneration success of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) on drained peatlands – 10-year results
Authors: Hytönen Jyrki , Hökkä Hannu , Saarinen Markku
Published: October 2020

We studied the effect of regeneration (planting/seeding) and soil preparation methods (no soil preparation/scalping/mounding) on the regeneration success of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) on three drained peatland Scots pine stands in northern Finland. After ten years, planting and sowing showed no differences in the total number of Scots pine seedlings (one seedling per sowing spot accepted) with the exception of the Sievi experiment. Without soil preparation the total number of Scots pine seedlings was 350–600 per ha. Scalping increased the number of Scots pine seedlings to 550–900 per ha, with the exception of seeding at Sievi. In mounded plots, with the exception of seeded plots at the Sievi site, the number of planted or seeded seedlings was 1,325–2,350 per ha. The number of crop seedlings in all the experiments and for all the soil preparation treatments reached the target of 2,000 seedlings per ha if naturally regenerated Scots pine, Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.) or birch (Betula spp.) seedlings were accepted as such. Moose (Alces alces L.) damage in Scots pine crop seedlings ranged from 4% in Sievi to 65% in Simo. The proportion of planted or seeded Scots pines of the crop seedlings was 23% in unprepared plots, 30% in scalped plots and 75% in mounded plots. Mounding increased the share of Scots pine seedlings in the overall crop seedlings. Planted seedlings were taller than seeded seedlings. Planting in mounds gave the best overall results in terms of the number of crop seedlings and their height ten years after the treatment.
Mean height or dominant height – what to prefer for modelling the site index of Estonian forests?
Authors: Tarmu Toomas , Laarmann Diana , Kiviste Andres
Published: October 2020

The availability of a large amount of data from reliable sources is important for forest growth modelling. A permanent plot where trees are repeatedly measured provides a clearer picture of stand alterations. Various factors, including forest management, affect forest growth and accuracy of its assessment. In Estonia, mean height as a regression height prediction at mean square diameter is commonly used in forest management practice. Alternatively, dominant height can be used. The main advantage of using dominant height instead of mean height is that the growth of dominant trees is not so strongly affected by stand density (thinning). The aim of our research was to investigate the difference between mean height and dominant height when used as stand height. The research was based on the Estonian Network of Forest Research Plots (ENFRP). As a result, we found that the average mean height change was significantly greater in the case of thinning when compared to undisturbed stand development, whereas, the average dominant height change in the case of thinning compared to undisturbed development was less significant. As a side result, we developed a regression model that can be used for calculating the dominant height of the main tree species using stand attributes (mean height, quadratic mean diameter and density) with a residual standard deviation of 0.466 m.
Towards 6G wireless networks-challenges and potential technologies
Authors: Ahmed Rezwana , Matin Mohammad Abdul
Published: October 2020

As 5G technology is advancing towards its final phase of development and the deployment of 5G networks is underway, academic, development and industrial communities are already moving towards the research and development of 6G wireless networks. While 5G technologies had been hauled as an enabler for Internet of Everything, many limitations of such cellular systems are coming to light as they are being deployed. These drawbacks of 5G networks have motivated worldwide interest on developing the next generation wireless system, 6G, with the capability to fully incorporate wide-ranging applications from virtual reality to autonomous systems. In this paper, an overview of the first five generations of wireless systems has been shown, followed by a survey on 6G wireless network along with a discussion on the possible requirements and challenges of 6G.
Sex, sleep, steroids, and lifestyle: Unraveling the coronavirus disease 2019 conundrum
Authors: Sehgal Vishal , Kalra Amit , Singh Surender , Ulmer Brian
Published: October 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has wreaked havoc and distressed economies worldwide. Countries have gone on lockdown of their economies to prevent the spread of the disease. This obviously led to collateral damage in the form of worsening healthcare for non-COVID-related conditions and is playing havoc with the world economy. Herein, we suggest novel strategies to prevent COVID-19 related complications, keeping in view the pathophysiology of the disease.
Barefoot running: Between fashion and real way to prevent joint osteo lesions?
Authors: Carpentier Manon , Perpiñá Martínez Sara , De Man Alain , Pierrakos Charalampos , Isenborgh Stefaan , De Bels David , Honore Patrick M. , Salem Walid , Redant Sebastien
Published: October 2020

Background and objectives

Running has gone from a vital necessity for the man to a playful sport. Different rheumatic and orthopedic pathologies have appeared, in front of which the shoe industry has reacted by creating reinforced shoes that are supposed to overcome the induced lesions. Several years later, the trend toward reinforcement has gone toward minimalism, which is the absence of reinforcement, that is, a more natural race.

Method

We observed variations of kinetics and kinematics in young, unprofessional, healthy runners during a shoe race and a shoeless race, which is the form of maximum minimalism. We then correlated minimalism variations with the variables of the race and the joint angles.

Results

We observed significant difference (P < 0.01) in the cycle rate, the cycle length, the step rate, and the angle of attack between running with and without shoes. A small variation of the minimalism index is associated with an increase in knee angle (r
2> 0.5). Conversely, a large variation in the minimalism index is related to a decrease in the knee angle (r
2> 0.5). The minimalism index has no impact on the angulation of the ankle and hip (r
2< 0.3).

Conclusion

Slow transition will bring gains in terms of decreasing the length of the stride, which limits the load on the shin. Greater flexibility can be achieved by decreasing the flexion angle of the knee, which decreases the demand for quadriceps muscles and the risk of knee injury with a greater risk of injury at the tibial level.
Estimation of Electromagnetic Compatibility Between DVB-T/DVB-T2 and 4G/5G in the 700 MHz Band for Co-Channel Case
Authors: Ancans G. , Stankevicius E. , Bobrovs V. , Ivanovs G.
Published: October 2020

The 694–790 MHz band (700 MHz) known also as the second digital dividend was allocated to the mobile radiocommunication service on a primary basis in Region 1 and identified to International Mobile Telecommunications by the World Radiocommunication Conference 2012 (WRC-12). The designation of mobile service in Europe and other countries of Region 1 in 700 MHz band was obtained after the World Radiocommunication Conference 2015 (WRC-15). Administrations of Region 1 will be able to plan and use these frequencies for mobile networks, including IMT. The goal of this study is to estimate the electromagnetic compatibility of Digital Video Broadcasting – Terrestrial (DVB-T/DVB-T2) and LTE (Long Term Evolution) technology operating both in 700 MHz band. The study assumes frequency division duplex (FDD) channel arrangement of 703–733 MHz (for uplink) and of 758–788 MHz (for downlink).

The model contains two parts: a DVB-T/DVB-T2 system and LTE mobile broadband network. Co-channel scenario is considered in this paper, and possible impact of DVB-T/DVB-T2 on LTE base stations (receivers) is also investigated. The Monte Carlo simulations within SEAMCAT software and the Minimum Coupling Loss (MCL) method are used for interference investigation. The coordination trigger field strength value predetermined by GE06 Agreement is also used in this study. The Monte Carlo method presents more relaxed electromagnetic compatibility scenario in comparison with the MCL method. For SEAMCAT simulations, ITU-R P.1546-5 radio propagation model is used.

The obtained results present the required minimum separation distance between DVB-T/DVB-T2 and LTE networks in the 694–790 MHz in order to provide the necessary performance of LTE mobile network.
Groups on Facebook as a Marketing Tool
Authors: Lupa-Wójcik Iwona
Published: October 2020

The aim of the article was to determine the use of Facebook groups as a marketing tool. The author conducted the research using a survey. To distribute the questionnaire author used a Facebook ad tool targeted at Polish women, who are planning a wedding or are shortly after it. Based on the example of the wedding industry, it was found that the content on these types of groups has large reach and generate high involvement of their participants. Members of Facebook wedding groups often take into account the recommendations they find on these groups when making wedding-related purchasing decisions. Companies often take advantage of this by using word of mouth marketing or direct sales (promotion). They can also create their own Facebook groups gathering the community around interests related to their activities. There is currently insufficient research on the possibilities of using Facebook groups as marketing tools. The article indicates various ways of using them to achieve marketing goals.
Experimental Analysis on Surface Roughness in Turning Hybrid Metal Matrix (6061Al+SiC+Gr) Composites
Authors: Kathirvel M. , Palani Kumar K. , Diaz P. M.
Published: October 2020

Owing to the distinguished properties Metal Matrix Graphite Hybrid Composites (Al/SiC-MMC-Gr) are used in various applications. This paper deals with the utility of Taguchi and response surface methodologies for the prediction of surface roughness in tuning of these materials with PCD tool. The cutting parameters effect on surface quality is analyzed and an empirical model with respect to turning parameters is established using response surface method. The most important parameter that influences the turning Al/SiC-MMC-Gr is feed. The measured and predicted results are approximately equal, which proves that, model is to be used for predicting surface finish in turning of these composites. Validation experiments have been used to confirm the predicted results.
STEM on Demand – Can Current State of Higher Education Infrastructure Meet Expectations?
Authors: Jahic Hatidza , Pilav-Velic Amila
Published: October 2020

One of the biggest challenges facing the education system in Bosnia and Herzegovina is bridging the gap between the current state of higher education and the demand for research, innovation and a robust STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) curriculum. Higher education instiutions (HEIs) face poor R&D infrastructure while companies struggle with limited resources and the lack of internal researchers, all of which affect their capabilities to utilize university knowledge and research that will lead to further collaborations and innovations in STEM. Universities are primarily seen as a source of future employees as well as as a source of knowledge and innovation. This study aims to provide an overview and systematic analysis of the current state of scientific and research infrastructure and human resources in public and private universities located in the Sarajevo Canton region. This is done by using primary data collected through semi-structured interviews and a self-reporting comprehensive questionnaire in order to identify areas where further reforms and investments are needed. An analysis of the secondary data sources, such as current strategic documents and the existing assessments of education, was conducted. Consequently, this study offers several practical implications, including policy recommendations in areas such as higher education, research infrastructure and academic excellence, cooperation with the private sector, and IT infrastructure improvements.
The need for updating nurses’ knowledge and skills in the field of recommendations for diabetes care
Authors: Szewczyk Alicja , Kobos Ewa
Published: October 2020

Aim. The aim of this study was to assess the need for updating nurses’ knowledge and skills in the field of diabetes care recommendations.

Material and methods. The study included 580 nurses who were master’s degree students. A knowledge test including 20 questions on 10 procedures mentioned in the recommendations was used to collect research data. A total of 93.3% of students in the study group were professionally active.

Results. A total of 11.9% of respondents had access to diabetes care recommendations. The largest knowledge deficits were found for: leaving an ‘old’ cannula for continuous insulin infusion using an insulin pump for 2-3 hours in place to allow for absorption of the accumulated insulin after inserting a new one; the time it takes to calibrate a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system by measuring capillary blood glucose after insertion of a CGM electrode; and indications for alternate site testing. Poor, fair, and good level of knowledge on recommendations was found in 12.8%, 84.3%, and 2.9% of respondents, respectively.

Conclusions. 1) The level of knowledge of studying nurses on diabetic care recommendations is unsatisfactory. 2) Specialised nurses, as well as those participating in in-house training courses on diabetes and those declaring the accessibility of recommendations at workplace show a higher level of knowledge. 3) In the light of the development of new medical technologies, periodic workshops focusing on practical skills should be organised for nurses in their workplace, enabling the use of equipment for insulin administration and glucose monitoring.
The scope of ICNP® implementation in the process of educating nursing students at the universities in the Pomeranian Voivodeship
Authors: Warska Małgorzata , Grabowska Hanna
Published: October 2020

Aim. Identifying the scope of implementation of the ICNP® dictionary in the process of educating nursing students at the universities of the Pomeranian Voivodeship.

Material and methods. The research was carried out at the turn of 2018 and 2019 among 110 first- and second-cycle students of nursing at three Pomeranian universities. The diagnostic survey method and the survey technique were used. The tool was an original on-line questionnaire. The statistical analysis used IBM SPSS 23 statistical package; p ≤ 0.05 was adopted as the materiality level.

Results. During the first-cycle studies, the students the most often used the ICNP® Classification (n=103; 93.6%). More than a half of them also used the classification of NANDA (n=58; 52.7%). ICNP® is the most often used on the basics of nursing (n=105; 95.5%). Regarding the second-cycle studies, students mainly applied the ICNP® (n=49; 44.5%) and NANDA (n=23; 20.9%) classifications, however, 13.6% (n=15) of the respondents did not use any nursing dictionary during the classes. Students also used ICNP® reference terminology in self-study papers (n=52; 47.3%) and diploma theses (n=20; 18.2%).

Conclusions. The most frequently used classification in the first- and second-cycle studies at the universities of the Pomeranian Voivodeship is the ICNP® dictionary.
Late Onset of Pancreatic Metastases from Renal Cell Carcinoma. A Case Report
Authors: Janevska Vesna , Shumkovski Aleksandar , Nikolova Dafina , Asani Learta , Pandilov Stefan , Karanfilovski Vlatko
Published: October 2020

Metastasis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to the pancreas is a rare entity accounting only 0.25–3% of all pancreatic tumors. We present a rare case of isolated three focal pancreatic metastases from RCC, occurring 15 years after the left nephrectomy. The majority of the pancreatic metastases are asymptomatic, as it was in case of our patient excluding the weight loss for the last three months. We demonstrate the importance of the medical history, radiological examinations, histological and immunohistochemical analysis in making a definitive diagnosis.
Assessing the Relationship of LST, NDVI and EVI with Land Cover Changes in the Lagos Lagoon Environment
Authors: Alademomi Alfred S. , Okolie Chukwuma J. , Daramola Olagoke E. , Agboola Raphael O. , Salami Tosin J.
Published: October 2020

The Lagos Lagoon is under increased pressure from growth in human population, growing demands for natural resources, human activities, and socioeconomic factors. The degree of these activities and the impacts are directly proportional to urban expansion and growth. In the light of this situation, the objectives of this study were: (i) to estimate through satellite imagery analysis the extent of changes in the Lagos Lagoon environment for the periods 1984, 2002, 2013 and 2019 using Landsat-derived data on land cover, Land Surface Temperature (LST), Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI); and (ii) to evaluate the relationship between the derived data and determine their relative influence on the lagoon environment. The derived data were subjected to descriptive statistics, and relationships were explored using Pearson's correlation and regression analysis. The effect of land cover on LST was measured using the Contribution Index and a trend analysis was carried out. From the results, the mean LSTs for the four years were 22.68°C (1984), 24.34°C (2002), 26.46°C (2013) and 28.40°C (2019). Generally, the mean LSTs is in opposite trend with the mean NDVIs and EVIs as associated with their dominant land cover type. The strongest positive correlations were observed between NDVI and EVI while NDVI had the closest fit with LST in the regression. Built-up areas have the highest contributions to LST while vegetation had a cooling influence. The depletion in vegetative cover has compromised the biodiversity of this environment and efforts are required to reverse this trend.
Network Analysis as a Powerful Approach to Analyse the Operational Environment
Authors: Hristov Martin
Published: October 2020

In times of information flooding us from everywhere and in an environment of increasingly complex and difficult to understand systems that our forces face in the operational environment, there is a need for alternative approaches to analyzing the environment and its participants. This approach meets key requirements and provides new and in-depth knowledge of systems. Network analysis is an approach based on graph theory that is applicable to the analysis of any system or process with a network structure. The network analysis toolkit is suitable for highlighting “important” players or elements in complex networks invisible at first glance, according to various criteria set in the term “important”.
On the Efficiency of the Lamport Signature Scheme
Authors: Zentai Daniel
Published: October 2020

Post-quantum (or quantum-resistant) cryptography refers to a set of cryptographic algorithms that are thought to remain secure even in the world of quantum computers. These algorithms are usually considered to be inefficient because of their big keys, or their running time. However, if quantum computers became a reality, security professionals will not have any other choice, but to use these algorithms. Lamport signature is a hash based one-time digital signature algorithm that is thought to be quantum-resistant. In this paper we will describe some simulation results related to the efficiency of the Lamport signature.
Correlations between DTI-derived metrics and MRS metabolites in tumour regions of glioblastoma: a pilot study
Authors: Flores-Alvarez Eduardo , Anselmo Rios Piedra Edgar , Cruz-Priego Griselda-Adriana , Durand-Muñoz Coral , Moreno-Jimenez Sergio , Roldan-Valadez Ernesto
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Specific correlations among diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)-derived metrics and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) metabolite ratios in brains with glioblastoma are still not completely understood.

Patients and methods

We made retrospective cohort study. MRS ratios (choline-to-N-acetyl aspartate [Cho/NAA], lipids and lactate to creatine [LL/Cr], and myo-inositol/creatine [mI/Cr]) were correlated with eleven DTI biomarkers: mean diffusivity (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA), pure isotropic diffusion (p), pure anisotropic diffusion (q), the total magnitude of the diffusion tensor (L), linear tensor (Cl), planar tensor (Cp), spherical tensor (Cs), relative anisotropy (RA), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD) at the same regions: enhanced rim, peritumoral oedema and normal-appearing white matter. Correlational analyses of 546 MRS and DTI measurements used Spearman coefficient.

Results

At the enhancing rim we found four significant correlations: FA ⇔ LL/Cr, Rs = -.364, p = .034; Cp ⇔ LL/Cr, Rs = .362, p = .035; q ⇔ LL/Cr, Rs = -.349, p = .035; RA ⇔ LL/Cr, Rs = -.357, p = .038. Another ten pairs of significant correlations were found in the peritumoral edema: AD ⇔ LL/Cr, AD ⇔ mI/Cr, MD ⇔ LL/Cr, MD ⇔ mI/Cr, p ⇔ LL/Cr, p ⇔ mI/ Cr, RD ⇔ mI/Cr, RD ⇔ mI/Cr, L ⇔ LL/Cr, L ⇔ mI/Cr.

Conclusions

DTI and MRS biomarkers answer different questions; peritumoral oedema represents the biggest challenge with at least ten significant correlations between DTI and MRS that need additional studies. The fact that DTI and MRS measures are not specific of one histologic type of tumour broadens their application to a wider variety of intracranial pathologies.
Source Model of Domestic Gas Stoves
Authors: Leitner Anita Vörösné , Kajtár László
Published: October 2020

Results from medical research show that the use of domestic gas stoves could have a major impact on human health and well-being, especially if they used for heating. Approximately 0.289 m3 of natural gas is combusted daily in Hungarian kitchens. The users normally stand near the stove during its operation, which on average is 45 minutes long; therefore, they are directly affected by the combustion products. Nevertheless, uncertainties remain concerning the effects of the combustion products on humans; the nitrogen dioxide load could be the most problematic. Its nominal source strength is in a range of 12.0 - 21.0 ug/kJ, depending on the type of burner. In order to improve kitchen ventilation, a source model of domestic gas stoves has been developed that is based on measurement results, statistical data, and further technical assumptions.
A New Hybrid Algorithm for Cost Optimization of Waffle Slab
Authors: Shayegan Davood Sedaghat , Lork Alireza , Hashemi Seyed Amir Hossein
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we have developed an efficient hybrid meta-heuristic algorithm for structural cost optimization of a waffle slab and have also solved the relevant optimization problems. The cost of the waffle slab is considered to be the objective function, and the design is based on the American Concrete Institute’s ACI 318-08 standard. This algorithm utilizes the recently developed mouth-brooding fish (MBF) algorithm as the main engine and uses the favorable properties of the colliding bodies optimization (CBO) algorithm. The performance of this algorithm is compared with MBF, CBO, harmony search (HS), particle swarm optimization (PSO), democratic particle swarm optimization (DPSO), charged system search (CSS) and enhanced charged system search (ECSS). The numerical results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can construct promising results and has merits in solving challenging optimization problems.
The competitions that have contributed to the rise and spread of the Olympic movement in the late 19th and early 20th century
Authors: Šiljak Violeta
Published: October 2020

The establishment of the modern Olympic Games can be considered a logical sequence of the Games that preceded them. The Cotswold, Wenlock, and Greek Olympic Games are known as the forerunners of the modern Olympic Games. The subject of this research is related to the competitions which also contributed to the rise and spread of the Olympic movement in the late 19th and early 20th century. The aim of the research is to point out the importance of organizing the Palic Olympics, the Olympic competitions in Serbia and the Women's Olympic Games, which, thanks to their organizers, at that historic moment contributed to a certain extent to the expansion of the Olympic Movement. Baron Lajos Vermes, a famous athlete and a sports patron was the founder of the Palić Olympics, among many other sports competitions, which were regularly held in what was then Austria-Hungary at Lake Palić in the period from 1880 to 1906. In the early 20th century in Serbia, the officers who were educated in France, where they had met with the Olympic movement, upon their return to the country began to organize numerous and various competitions that had the adjective "Olympic" in their names. The perseverance in the work on the Olympic idea soon led to the establishment of the Serbian Olympic Club in 1910, and thanks to Captain Svetomir Đukić it also led to the inclusion in the IOC in 1912. In the period between the two world wars Alice Milliat worked hard on the equal inclusion of women in the Olympic movement. The requests for equal inclusion of women in the Olympic competition program that were rejected multiple times finally yielded results after the organization of the Women's Olympic Games in 1922 in Paris. The research results should show the importance of these Games, giving them the opportunity to be included among the already well-known forerunners of the Olympic Games.
On the Factors Influencing EFL Students’ Intercultural Competence
Authors: Sobkowiak Paweł
Published: October 2020

Cultural intelligence (CQ) as a micro-level construct describing intercultural competence has garnered growing attention in academic literature recently, resulting in an increase in research. This paper reports on the empirical research which, using as a survey instrument the Cultural Intelligence Scale (CQS) developed by Earley and Ang (2003), examined intercultural competencies of Polish EFL students at the tertiary education, measured by the level of CQ. In addition, the investigation aimed to analyze whether individual difference variables such as gender, educational level, linguistic proficiency, multilingualism, motivation to study English, and study abroad experience are significant predictors of students’ level of CQ. The results show that the respondents’ intercultural competence has been developed only to a small degree. Further, CQ is positively related to gender, educational level, foreign language proficiency, the number of foreign languages known, motivation to study English, and study abroad experience. Some practical applications of the study findings for the Polish tertiary education have been presented.
Uji Akurasi Beberapa Indeks Vegetasi dalam Mengestimasi Kerapatan Hutan Mangrove dengan Citra Sentinel-2A di Taman Nasional Bali Barat
Authors: Fahmy Alam Maulana Ilham , Nuarsa I Wayan , Ria Puspitha Ni Luh Putu
Published: October 2020

Vegetation Indices is one of the remote sensing parameters that can be used to estimate the mangrove forest density. The purpose of this study is to determine the vegetation index with the best accuracy to estimate the condition of mangrove density, as well as determine the spatial distribution of mangrove density in the TNBB area. This study uses Sentinel-2A satellite imagery data and five different vegetation indices, namely NDVI, NNIR, EVI, mRE-SR, and vegetation index developed in this study. The method of determining samples in the field uses stratified random and proportional sampling. Data collection of canopy density used hemispherical photography method, which is taking vertical photos with a 180o angle of view using a camera with a Fish Eye or Wide lens. Data analysis used in this study is regression analysis, coefficient of determination test, model validation test, and paired t test. From statistical tests conducted on several vegetation indices, the mRE-SR vegetation index value shows the best results on all the accuracy parameters tested.  The R2 value was generated by the mRE-SR vegetation index from the relationship between mangrove density results from field measurements with the vegetation index value and the estimated density results shows that the highest values, namely 0.909 and 0.935. These results show that the mRE-SR vegetation index is the best vegetation index in explaining the variation of mangrove density in the field. The mRE-SR vegetation index also has the lowest deviation of the estimated value, with the resulting SE values in the two linear relationships of 1,592 and 0,999. In addition, the mRE-SR vegetation index has a P (T <= t) two-tail value greater than the significance level (0.05), the results means that two values of the tested variables are not significant different. The calculation results show that the total area of mangroves in TNBB is 409.21 ha. From the percentage of density obtained, the mangrove density class was only distributed in the medium and solid density classes.
Studi Lama Waktu Tinggal Partikel di Kawasan Perairan Nusa Penida, Bali
Authors: Putra Ida Bagus Andika , Hendrawan I Gede , Putra I Dewa Nyoman Nurweda
Published: October 2020

Nusa Penida is a tourist destination, located on the east of Bali, which is well-known of its natural panoramic. Increasing tourism sector in Nusa Penida may have positive impacts, but it can also have negative impacts, such as an increase in the amount of waste and other pollutants, which will eventually be discharged into the waters. High concentration of pollutant can reduce water quality. The water quality in the sea can be control by the residence time, and the sea current would spread waste in the ocean. Based on these problems, it is important to conduct a research on the movement and length of particle residence in the waters of Nusa Penida, Bali. This research was carried out in January 2019, to represent the rainy season conditions, and in July 2019, to represent the dry season conditions. The residence time was calculated  using a numerical modeling method namely Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM). Based on the simulation results, the residence time of particle in the dry and rainy season has a similar pattern. Areas with fast residence times are found in the eastern Nusa Penida waters, while areas with weak residence times are found in the Toyapakeh strait. Generally, Nusa Penida waters have a relatively short residence time, 1- 4 hours.
Improving Network Performance of IP PBX Based Telecommunication System
Authors: Wardi Wardi , Basri Hasanuddin Zulfajri , Andani Andani , Jo Salli Jeffry , Muhammad Syafaat Andi
Published: October 2020

IP-PBX based communication has become a human need in the era of technology. Some researchers design a wireless telecommunication system based on IP PBX using Raspberry Pi. The previous researches have small network coverage and problematic on the ability of the system to support multiple concurrent connections. Based on these problems, these research aims are to expand the coverage area and increase the number of concurrent calls. This study used Asterisk FreePBX for the media configuration of the servers. The clients: laptops and smartphone devices used Linkin and Bria softphone. The testing was conducted in terms of voice and video services in the form of signal strength, CPU performance of servers, and network performance parameters such as delay, jitter, and packet loss. The results obtained that the CPU performance of the servers for seven calls simultaneously is around 16.9% compared with previous research, at an average of 45%. Based on ETSI standards, the measurement of network performance parameters when communicating between clients outperform than previous research. The clients can communicate well up to 390 meters.
HUBUNGAN NYERI BAHU DENGAN ROUNDED SHOULDER POSTURE PADA MAHASISWA PENGGUNA KOMPUTER DI SEKOLAH TINGGI DESAIN BALI
Authors: Sistayani I Gusti Ayu Bulan , Wibawa Ari , Sundari Luh Putu Ratna , Indrayani Agung Wiwiek
Published: October 2020

Nyeri bahu merupakan salah satu penyebab terjadinya morbiditas dengan prevalensi yang tinggi. Nyeri bahu dan leher berhubungan dengan postur statis serta mempertahankan leher dalam posisi menekuk ke depan. Posisi kepala yang lebih ke depan menyebabkan adanya kompensasi berupa bahu bergerak ke depan yang mengindikasikan adanya Rounded ShoulderPosture (RSP). RSP merupakan salah satu postur janggal pada pengguna komputer. Sekolah Tinggi Desain Bali merupakan salah satu sekolah tinggi dengan pelajaran desain yang mengahruskan penggunaan komputer selama berjam – jam. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui hubungan nyeri bahu dengan Rounded Shoulder Posture pada mahasiswa pengguna komputer di Sekolah Tinggi Desain Bali.  Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian analitik observasional dengan desain cross-sectional. Jumlah sampel penelitian adalah 42 orang mahasiswa pengguna komputer atau laptop. Teknik analisa yang digunakan yaitu uji Spearman Rank. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nilai  p=0,156 pada RSP kanan dan p=0,673 pada RSP kiri yang mengindikasikan bahwa tidak ada hubungan nyeri bahu dengan RSP. Beberapa faktor yang menyebabkan hal tersebut adalah tidak ada perbedaan postur antara individu dengan nyeri bahu dan tanpa nyeri bahu, ketidakseimbangan otot yang bersifat fungsional, mobilitas dan fleksibilitas, serta adapatasi tubuh terhadap nyeri. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa tidak ada hubungan nyeri bahu dengan Rounded Shoulder Posture pada mahasiswa pengguna komputer di Sekolah Tinggi Desain Bali.