bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Las microfinanzas en Argentina: teorías y experiencias
Authors: CATAIFE GUIDO , BEKERMAN MARTHA
Published: August 2018

El presente trabajo intenta introducir la temática del estado actual de las microfinanzas en Argentina. Para ello se combina el abordaje teórico con el práctico. El análisis teórico gira en torno a los conflictos entre sustentabilidad e impacto social, por un lado y sustentabilidad y escala por el otro, conceptos que se definen en el texto. El análisis empírico, por su parte, consta de una descripción de la situación de las microfinanzas en Argentina basada en los datos disponibles, más un estudio de campo. Este último, realizado a los efectos de comprender el impacto de los conflictos mencionados en la estructura de microfinanzas particular de Argentina.
L´hegemonie des financiers au exique sous le Porfiriat. L´autre dictature, Javier Pérez Siller
Authors: JULIETTE CHAUDIEU ANNE
Published: August 2018

Porfirio Díaz y sus allegados,estudiado generalmente por los problemas suscitados a raíz de la acumulación de tensiones que llevaron a la revolución de 1910 o bien la eficacia de un crecimiento económico —y una cierta modernidad— son algunos de los temas conocidos y trabajados por los historiadores. Sin embargo, después de la ola de estudios económicos de los años 70, muy pocos trabajos se han elaborado acerca de los aspectos financieros del porfiriato y, casos contados, sobre su política fiscal. La originalidad del libro de Javier Pérez Siller es aportar un modelo para comprender el papel de los científicos alrededor de Díaz, por medio del estudio de su política financiera, clave del crecimiento económico y la estabilidad política. El éxito de los científicos está íntimamente ligado a la red de hombres de negocios que lograron articular a su alrededor, a las alianzas que establecieron con ellos, lo que les permitió controlar las riendas de la economía y de la política y ejercer, como indica el subtítulo del libro, “la otra dictadura”.
Políticas públicas en la reducción de la desigualdad del ingreso y de la pobreza: nordeste de Brasil
Authors: OLIVEIRA VERGOLINO JOSÉ RAIMUNDO , SALES ROCHA FRANCISCO JOSÉ
Published: August 2018

En este trabajo se analizó, empíricamente, el papel de las variables de políticas públicas en la reducción de las desigualdades de renta per capita entre las microrregiones del Nordeste de Brasil, en el periodo de 1970 a 1998. Dicho análisis se realizó con base en la metodología de la descomposición del diferencial de renta y del índice de concentración de renta de Gini. El primero mostró que la parte de la diferencia del producto per capita explicada por la variable de capital humano fue de 32% para la diferencia entre las microrregiones de la región metropolitana y las del Litoral. El índice de Gini mostró que si no hubiese diferencias significativas en las variables de capital humano —geográfica e institucional entre las microrregiones del nordeste—, la concentración de renta entre éstas sería 37% menor.
Estrategia de conservación para el desarrollo, de la Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas, SEMARNAT
Authors: SALDIVAR VALDÉZ AMERICO
Published: August 2018

¿Hacia una estrategia compartida y cuasi perfecta? La ruta a la sustentabilidad está empedrada con buenas intenciones pero no exenta de conflictos, utopías y tensiones. También la Estrategia de Conservación para el Desarrollo es una que vale la pena ensayar. Propuestas van, propuestas vienen, y lo que quedan son las buenas intenciones, a la par que los deterioros medioambientales, el rápido agotamiento de nuestros recursos naturales y la pérdida de biodiversidad, bosques, ríos, lagunas, mares, lagos limpios y aire no contaminado. Esta es una verdad de Perogrullo que, a fuerza de repetirla, comienza a tener oídos receptores e interlocutores sensibles que comparten los males propios y ajenos que nos ofrece el planeta por doquier. Como parte de esta realidad de conflicto y consenso surge la Comisión Nacional de Areas Naturales Protegidas (CONANP).
Globalización, economía del conocimiento y nueva industria electrónica de exportación en México
Authors: DABAT LATRUBESSE ALEJANDRO
Published: August 2018

El presente trabajo estudia la conformación y despliegue de la nueva industria electrónica de exportación de México como un aspecto de la conformación de la nueva economía global del conocimiento. Jerarquiza cuestiones como la conformación estructural de la producción mexicana en su proceso de arranque en la última década del siglo pasado, las particulares condiciones históricas de su vertiginoso despliegue, las particularidades de la inserción de México dentro de la nueva economía mundial y su ulterior declinación relativa, ante la arrolladora conversión de China en un nuevo competidor gigante de la producción electrónica mundial.
Chemolysis of a Uric Acid Stone in a Horseshoe Kidney
Authors: Balakrishnan Malathy , Phan YC , Cobley Jonathan , Mahmalji Wasim
Published: August 2018

Chemolysis of kidney stone is not unheard of. However, to our knowledge, there is no previous report of chemolysis of a kidney stone in a horseshoe kidney. We report the first ever case of chemolysis of a stone in a horseshoe kidney. As part of his visible haematuria workup 4 years ago, a 66-year-old gentleman with a history of gout was found to have a horseshoe kidney. In early 2017, he was seen in the urology clinic with some non-specific abdominal pain without a recent history of visible haematuria, lower urinary tract symptoms, and urinary tract infections. His CT KUB (computed tomography of kidneys, ureters and bladder), revealed a 1.3cm stone in his horseshoe kidney [Figure 1 and 2]. At the same time, his CT KUB has also picked up some retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy in the abdomen and pelvis which were suspicious of lymphoma. His serum uric acid level was noted to be normal. Subsequently, he underwent a laparoscopic right iliac lymph node biopsy which confirmed nodal marginal zone non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma. He was reviewed by the haematology team and they decided to adopt a watch and wait approach to his disease with quarterly CT CAP (computed tomography of chest, abdomen and pelvis) scans. During this period of time, he had several gout attacks and he was started on allopurinol i.e. 100mg once a day. He also considerably increased his daily fluid intake. 6 months after his initial CT KUB, he was found to be completely stone free on his CT scan [Figure 3 and 4].
Finding a Port in a Non-Safe Harbor: Implications for Reverse Exchanges after Bartell
Authors: Smeal Lucia N. , Rackliffe Usha
Published: August 2018

Revenue Procedure 2000-37 provides a safe harbor for reverse like-kind exchanges to qualify for deferral of gain under Section 1031. In a reverse exchange, the replacement property is acquired before the relinquished property is transferred. The taxpayer transfers title to replacement property to a third-party accommodator to hold until the exchange takes place. In a landmark ruling for the taxpayer in Bartell v. Commissioner, the Tax Court held in favor of form over substance: although the taxpayer had possession and control of the replacement property for 17 months, the accommodator with the title had tax ownership. The IRS nonacquiesced with the decision, emphasizing substance over form: the accommodator must have benefits and burdens of ownership, rather than holding mere title. This paper proposes that the IRS's nonacquiescence is problematic because it could result in inconsistency across different Circuits, and recommends that Congress adopt a consistent timing rule for all exchanges.
Creating individual level air pollution exposures in an anonymised data safe haven: a platform for evaluating impact on educational attainment
Authors: Mizen Amy , Lyons Jane , Doherty Ruth , Berridge Damon , Wilkinson Paul , Milojevic Ai , Carruthers David , Akbari Ashley , Lake Iain , Davies Gwyneth , Mavrogianni Anna , Al Sallakh Mohammad , Dearden Lorraine , Johnson Rhodri , Rodgers Sarah Elizabeth
Published: August 2018

Introduction

There is a lack of evidence on the adverse effects of air pollution on cognition for people with air quality-related health conditions. We propose that educational attainment, as a proxy for cognition, may increase with improved air quality. This study will explore whether asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis, when exacerbated by acute exposure to air pollution, is associated with educational attainment.

Objectives

To describe the preparation of individual and household-level linked environmental and health data for analysis within an anonymised safe haven. Also to introduce our statistical analysis plan for our study: COgnition, Respiratory Tract illness and Effects of eXposure (CORTEX).

Methods

We imported daily air pollution and aeroallergen data, and individual level education data into the SAIL databank, an anonymised safe haven for person-based records. We linked individual-level education, socioeconomic and health data to air quality data for home and school locations, creating tailored exposures for individuals across a city. We developed daily exposure data for all pupils in repeated cross sectional exam cohorts (2009-2015).

Conclusion

We have used the SAIL databank, an innovative, data safe haven to create individual-level exposures to air pollution and pollen for multiple daily home and school locations. The analysis platform will allow us to evaluate retrospectively the impact of air quality on attainment for multiple cross-sectional cohorts of pupils. Our methods will allow us to distinguish between the pollution impacts on educational attainment for pupils with and without respiratory health conditions. The results from this study will further our understanding of the effects of air quality and respiratory-related health conditions on cognition.

Highlights

This city-wide study includes longitudinal routinely-recorded educational attainment data for all pupils taking exams over seven years;

High spatial resolution air pollution data were linked within a privacy protected databank to obtain individual exposure at multiple daily locations;

This study will use health data linked at the individual level to explore associations between air pollution, related morbidity, and educational attainment.
Political Parties of Thailand – Examination for Democratic Stability
Authors: ROGOZHINA N. G.
Published: August 2018

On the threshold of elections designed to be held in February 2019,  the first after the military junta seized power in 2014, it is important  to define the role of parties in the political process of Thailand, which  as other developing countries of Asia, faces  challenges in democratic state building. The contemporary political  history of kingdom represents the confrontation of two tendencies –  authoritarianism and democracy what has a reverse impact on  political parties, their character, structure and ability to represent  interests of the society as a whole. The author analyses the process  of party evolution in the historical retrospective in the context of  transformation of political system – from bureaucratic to  semidemocratic subjected to economic modernization and changes in  socio structure of society where traditional form of organization patron-client is persisted. The author defines three  stages of evolution of party system in Thailand The first is  characterized by the full control of civil-military bureaucracy over  parties. The second stage is closely related to the formation of provincial political clientele groups. The third stage marks the  evolvement of party of “power” with the implication for  strengthening the parliamentary democracy in the beginning of XXI  century. And as the result of it – to the destabilization of political  system, based on the relative balance of power between two main  political forces – bureaucracy and army interested in reservation of authoritarian government, and bourgeoisie supporting the  liberalization of political institutes. With the emergence of party of “power” supported by the majority of population advocating  parliamentary democracy political spectrum has changed. The arising conflict of interests subjected to collision of positions  regarding the model of political governance was overcome by  military coup. Analyzing the political spectrum on the threshold of  elections the author comes to conclusion that the restoration of  compromised model of political governance sample of 80-90 years of  XX century is the most likely option of political development of  Thailand in the near future. Though it differs in one aspect – the  social structure has changed, there is the rise of that groups of population that intend to participate in the political process, what  will force the power to be more transparent and social oriented. These challenges face the political parties as well.
Evolution of Party Systems: New Point of Bifurcation?
Authors: SOLOVYEV E. G.
Published: August 2018

In face of the relative success of the right and left populists, among  representatives of the intellectual elite on the West arose a  conviction – in order to restore the liberal order and prevent the final victory of populists, traditional parties will have to make not  only rebranding. They must develop policies through which  globalization can serve the middle and working class. In fact, the  problem is even wider than the opposition to the right and left populists. The transformation of party systems takes place in the  context of the effects of globalization, generating new lines of  social tensions and divisions in society (including “globalized elite” –  “anti-globalistminded masses” opposition); under framework of  democracy deficit, when a significant part of the electorate of  developed Western countries clearly realizes that they “can change  the government, but not the policy” and from time to time under the influence of situational factors involve in the “protest voting”, in  support of alternative to political establishment political forces; in the context of fragmentation of the political field due to the crisis  of “Grand ideological narratives” and the appearance of so called  “molecular ideologies” and “one question” parties. Entering the  political arena in a number of countries of the far right and far left  forces is rather situational, but it becomes a consequence of the  current crisis trends – the migration crisis, terrorism, economic  recession. The rise of populist parties of all kinds (right, left, right- left) has its limits. But the process of party systems adaptation to a  new type of conflict between the globalized postmodern elites and  the majority of “nationalized” citizens of national states is only  developing now (both in developed and developing countries). The  question is in which degree the party and political systems of  different countries are ready to it and how the modern political elites  are flexible and adaptive to a new political challenge.
Euroscepticism Level of French Parties Determined by the Content-analysis of Their Pre-election Manifestos
Authors: DOMANOV A. O.
Published: August 2018

The dynamics of Euroscepticism intensity of some French parties is  analysed in the given article with the use of Attitude to European  integration index. The degree of criticism of the EU is evaluated  quantitatively (1-13 points) based on the following data extracted  from 2010-2017 party manifestos: attitude to the principal idea of European integration, affective and instrumental support or  discontent of the EU, the perception of the EU as an (un-)  accountable institution. The elaborated method was proven to be  instrumental and reliable for Euroscepticism studies by finding  correspondence between the quantitative values of the Index and  Russian scholars’ qualitative estimates. This standardized approach  to measurement allowed not only to reveal the general attitude of a  particular party towards European integration, but also to compare the obtained estimates with indicators for past years, for  other parties, and also in other countries. The developed scale let  ascertain some strengthening of National Front’s and J.-L.  Melenchon’s supporters’ (nowadays – from “Unbowed France”)  Euroscepticism and weakening criticism of the EU by gaullists from  the “Union for the Popular Movement” and the “Republicans”.  Relatively stronger Euroscepticism of the French Communist Party in  comparison to the Socialist Party has been confirmed.
Legal Regulation of Political Party Financing in the Kingdom of Spain and the Russian Federation: Comparative Analysis
Authors: PLАTONOVА N. I. , MITIN G. N.
Published: August 2018

This article deals with the modern mechanisms of the political parties financing in Russia and Spain. Nowadays the parties may be  effective if they are effective in fundraising. That’s why we may say  that all and any democratic country shall create a balanced model of  parties financing. Such model shall minimize the influence of private  money and at the same time of public funds. For this purpose, it is necessary to take into consideration the peculiarities of the  political system, order of parties funding and the practice. It is also useful to learn the experience of parties funding of foreign  countries. The subject of this study is the legal regulation of sources  of political parties financing if Russia and Spain. The special attention  is paid to public funds and principles of legal regulation of  it. Such principals are rule of law, transparency of parties funding as  well as reasonableness and compliance with voters’ support. The  authors analyze recent amendments of law on political parties in the  field of state subsidies. A great attention is paid to private sources of  parties financing. The study reveals the tendency of tightening of  legal regulation of political parties funding especially concerning the amount of donations, donors and credits. The legal comparative  study and analyze of financial reports helps to look at the problem of parties funding from other side.
Left-wing populism in Western countries. The Phenomenon of J.-L. Mélenchon
Authors: SHMELEV D. V.
Published: August 2018

The article studies the phenomenon of left populism in Western  Europe. On the example of France, the author examines the specifics  and historical origins of left populism, its ideas and  slogans, electoral technologies, factors of presence on the political  scene. The author focuses on the political activities of Jean-Luc  Mélenchon, his election campaign for the presidential and  parliamentary elections in 2017 in France. The article considers the  key stages of Mélenchon’s political career, the features of his political discourse and program, the creation of the Left front, the conditions for the rise and the specifics of left populism in France.  Among the specific features of French left populism, anti-elitism,  antisystem, egalitarianism and the demand for social justice,  pacifism and criticism of the neoliberal version of globalization are  highlighted. The author believes that the rise of left populism in  France has led to significant changes in the balance of political forces during the presidential and parliamentary campaigns of spring  and summer of 2017, putting it to the forefront of political  struggle. In the light of the evolution of the political situation in  France, the article analyzes Mélenchon’s subsequent activities  related to his position around the debate on the reform of labor  legislation, social protests in autumn 2017 and spring 2018, relations with other left-wing parties and movements, structural  changes within the “La France insoumise”. The article emphasizes the undeniable leadership of the Mélenchon movement  among the far left organizations; it is noted that the preservation of the horizontal structures of “La France insoumise” (social networks,  Autonomous initiatives, activism), media strategy, the specifics of  political discourse and appeal to different layers of the electorate,  participation in social protests allow us to talk about the French left  populism and Mélenchon as the main political rival of President Macron.
Determinan Nilai Pelanggan dan Implikasinya pada Kinerja Pemasaran Dealer Mobil SUV Premium
Authors: Wardhana Aditya
Published: August 2018

This study examines the implementation of market strategy and marketing mix strategy and customer relationship management affecting the customer value and its implication on the marketing performances. In this research, market strategy includes market segmentation and targeting, positioning. Marketing mix strategy includes products, price, place, and promotion (4 Ps), while the marketing performance includes sales volume, profit, and the market share. This study uses survey research method, data were collected from 100 heads of authorized dealers premium SUV in West Java and Banten Proviences as respondents, with data analysis using path analysis. Based on the research results, it was concluded that the performance of marketing authorized dealer of premium SUVs in West Java and Banten Proviences influenced by customer value, and customer value is affected by the implementation of market strategy, marketing mix strategy and management of customer relationship management either partially or simultaneously.
Strategy of Agro Potential Management as an Effort in Achieveing Agroecotourism in Ciburial Village
Authors: Ekawati Dedeh , Arifin Yusuf
Published: August 2018

This study aims to identify and analyze the external and internal environment, opportunities, threats, strengths, and weaknesses of the management potential of agro, agro potential strategic management priorities, along with appropriate management programs that can be implemented by the manager. The results are expected to contribute in the development of tourism management, especially management. The study was conducted in Ciburial Village, Cimenyan District of Bandung Regency. The research method used was survey  with descriptive and qualitative approach. Method analysis used were IE (Internal-External) analysis, SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis, and AHP (Analytical Hierarchy Process). The results showed that the management of agro potential in the growth stage requires the manager of the Ciburial Village to cooperate with the various stakeholders involved in the management of agro potential mainly through increased community participation.
Consumers’ Purchase Intention: Influencing Factors Unveiled at Korean Thematic Café (Case Study: Chingu Café)
Authors: Wandebori Harimukti , Wijaya Vinon
Published: August 2018

Service quality, atmosphere, and food quality have become an important part to be considered by a firm or company in order to attract consumers and to compete in the marketplace. This research will be taking Chingu Café which is located in  Bandung, Indonesia to be the object of the study. This research applied a quantitative method with total sample of 384 respondents who have visited and spent time in Chingu Café. A multi linear regression was applied to analyze the findings in order to gain the effect of service quality’s dimensions, food quality, and atmosphere on purchase intention. This research is able to gather unique findings in a Korean thematic café business. It is obtained that the most consumptive consumers are teenagers and young-adults dominated by females. More importantly, this research is able to find that service quality (tangible, reliability, responsiveness, and empathy), atmosphere, and food quality have a positive influence on purchase intention while none of such relationship between assurance dimension and purchase intention.
Frictionless Contact Between a Rigid Indentor and a Transversely Isotropic Functionally Graded Layer
Authors: Patra R. , Barik S.P. , Chaudhuri P.K.
Published: August 2018

This article is concerned with the study of frictionless contact between a rigid punch and a transversely isotropic functionally graded layer. The rigid punch is assumed to be axially symmetric and is supposed to be pressing the layer by an applied concentrated load. The layer is resting on a rigid base and is assumed to be sufficiently thick in comparison with the amount of indentation by the rigid punch. The graded layer is modeled as a non-homogeneous medium. The relationship between the applied load P and the contact area is obtained by solving the mathematically formulated problem through using the Hankel transform of different order. Numerical results have been presented to assess the effects of functional grading of the medium and the applied load on the stress distribution in the layer as well as on the relationship between the applied load and the area of contact.
Static Analysis of Functionally Graded Plate Using Nonlinear Classical Plate Theory with Von-Karman Strains
Authors: Singh S.J. , Harsha S.P.
Published: August 2018

The present study is based on the nonlinear bending analysis of an FGM plate with Von-Karman strain based on the non-linear classical plate theory (NLCPT) with in-plane displacement and moderate rotation. Non-linear bending analysis based on stresses and transverse deflections is then carried out for the plate for the complex solution obtained using an analytical method viz. Navier’s method. The equations of motion and boundary conditions are obtained using the Principle of Minimum Potential Energy (PMPE) method and material property is graded in thickness direction according to simple power-law distribution in terms of volume fractions of the constituents. The effect of the span-to-thickness ratio and FGM exponent on the maximum central deflection and stresses are studied. The results show that the response is transitional with respect to ceramic and metal and the complex solution predicts the real behavior of stresses and deflections in the functionally graded plate. The functionally graded plate is found to be more effective for moderately thick and thick plates, which is inferred by a complex nature of the solution. For FGM plates, the transverse deflection is in-between to that of metal and ceramic rich plates. The complex nature of the solution also gives information about the stress distribution in the thickness direction.
Work and study: exploring the social actions of undergraduates on a Social Protection Scheme in Ghana
Authors: Manful Esmeranda , Atakora Michael
Published: August 2018

In recent years with the various austerity measures put in place by governments, the main providers of welfare, funding of social protection programmes have shrunk. Yet, protecting the less fortunate has never been the preserve of the State; families, communities and civil societies had always contributed in the provisions. One of such contributors are universities, though their core mandate is to educate but in addition many universities have established schemes and scholarships to ensure access to tertiary education for students from low income families. However, as in many social interventions, including Ghana’s, there is a gap between policy intent and practice, but often the focus is on the implementors not the beneficiaries. This paper therefore presents findings from a qualitative study exploring the perceptions of participating students in the ‘work and study’ programme in KNUST using the Social Action theory to unveil the reasons underpinning actions of students who have to work. A case study research design was adopted for this study using a qualitative approach with in-depth interviewing as the method of data collection. Fifteen undergraduates, volunteered to participate in the study. Data collected were qualitatively analysed using the NVivo software. Findings from the study revealed that students had multiple reasons for joining the scheme and it was not based on the sole rational motive of earning an income. The study provides an analytical insight that predicts the behaviours of beneficiaries of social protection initiatives.
Toward Building Energy Reduction Through Solar Energy Systems Retrofit Options: An Equest Model
Authors: Dehghani M. Javad , McManamon P. , Ataei A.
Published: August 2018

Office buildings are responsible for a great portion of total energy consumption. In this study, solar system based retrofitting measures such as daylighting control system (DCS), Trombe wall (TW) and photovoltaic (PV) systems are modeled to an office building located in Dayton, Ohio, United States. An energy modeling tool, eQuest is utilized to analyze the economic and environmental impacts of the proposed single retrofitting measures along with the combined measure to identify the optimized building energy reduction opportunity. Compared to the baseline energy consumption, adopting single energy efficiency measures such as PV, DCS, TW, and overhangs/fins to windows results in about 25, 10, 9, 1 percentages of energy reduction respectively. In terms of economic perspectives, overhang and fins provide the best simply payback time around 1 year. Other solar system based retrofitting measures such as TW, DCS and PV can provide economic simple payback with 1.5, 2.5, and 12 years respectively. PV turned out to be the most costly options although it provides the largest energy savings which lead to the largest CO2 reductions. Adopting the combined system along with 50 kW photovoltaic array to the rooftop results in 45 percent office building energy reduction.
The Impact of Carbon Dioxide Concentration on the Human Health - Case Study
Authors: Kapalo P. , Domniţa F. , Bacoţiu C. , Spodyniuk Nadija
Published: August 2018

From various other studies, it is known that the maximum carbon dioxide concentration in different countries is between 1,000 ppm up to 1,500 ppm. Therefore, the research is focused on indoor environment, namely the production of pollutants from the persons inside office rooms. The article presents the trend of the carbon dioxide concentration from the occupants inside an office. It is examined the carbon dioxide production separately for men and women, for persons of different mass and for persons of different ages. It is also analyzed the carbon dioxide production during a sedentary and physical activities. In parallel with the production of carbon dioxide is presented the monitoring of the human pulse and blood pressure. All these parameters are monitored together with relative humidity and indoor air temperature. The aims of this paper is to describe the partial results of human respiration impact on indoor air quality in closed spaces and to research the connection between carbon dioxide concentration and human health.
Performance of Concrete by Using Albumen, Yolk and Milk
Authors: Mirzabagheri Sara , Vatankhah F. , Ziaee Zeynab , Derhamjani Ghazaleh , Maharati Sahar , Aslani H.
Published: August 2018

In ancient structures such as Jabalieh dome at Kerman and Dokhtar Bridge at Mianeh in Iran, it was said that egg and in some cases egg and camel milk were used in the mortar. Thus, it was imagined that the stability of these structures were based on these traditional materials. Therefore egg parts and also camel milk were used as a portion of water in the concrete to evaluate this traditional theory. For this purpose, 16 concrete mix designs included 144 cubes, 16 cylinders and 16 prisms were casted. Various percentages of albumen, yolk or camel milk were used. Results showed that by substituting 0.5% of water content with albumen, compressive strength was similar to control specimen. But splitting tensile strength and three-point flexural strength were 7.2% and 18.9% higher than control specimen, respectively. Moreover, because of camel milk’s fat, usage of this material was not suggested.
Vehicle Emission Computation Through Microscopic Traffic Simulation Calibrated Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Wei Yun , Yu Ying , Xu Lifeng , Huang Wei , Guo Jianhua , Wan Ying , Cao Jinde
Published: August 2018

Vehicle emission calculation is critical for evaluating motor vehicle related environmental protection policies. Currently, many studies calculate vehicle emissions from integrating the microscopic traffic simulation model and the vehicle emission model. However, conventionally vehicle emission models are presented as a stand-alone software, requiring a laborious processing of the simulated second-by-second vehicle activity data. This is inefficient, in particular, when multiple runs of vehicle emission calculations are needed. Therefore, an integrated vehicle emission computation system is proposed around a microscopic traffic simulation model. In doing so, the relational database technique is used to store the simulated traffic activity data, and these data are used in emission computation through a built-in emission computation module developed based on the IVE model. In order to ensure the validity of the simulated vehicle activity data, the simulation model is calibrated using the genetic algorithm. The proposed system was implemented for a central urban region of Nanjing city. Hourly vehicle emissions of three types of vehicles were computed using the proposed system for the afternoon peak period, and the results were compared with those computed directly from the IVE software with a trivial difference in the results from the proposed system and the IVE software, indicating the validity of the proposed system. In addition, it was found for the study region that passenger cars are critical for controlling CO, buses are critical for controlling CO and VOC, and trucks are critical for controlling NOx and CO2. Future work is to test the proposed system in more traffic management and control strategies, and more vehicle emission models are to be incorporated in the system.
The Proposal of a Evolutionary Strategy Generating the Data Structures Based on a Horizontal Tree for the Tests
Authors: Żukowicz Marek , Markiewicz Michał
Published: August 2018

The aim of the article is to present a mathematical definition of the object model, that is known in computer science as TreeList and to show application of this model for design evolutionary algorithm, that purpose is to generate structures based on this object. The first chapter introduces the reader to the problem of presenting data using the TreeList object. The second chapter describes the problem of testing data structures based on TreeList. The third one shows a mathematical model of the object TreeList and the parameters, used in determining the utility of structures created through this model and in evolutionary strategy, that generates these structures for testing purposes. The last chapter provides a brief summary and plans for future research related to the algorithm presented in the article.
Internet of Things in Marketing: Opportunities and Security Issues
Authors: Abashidze Irakli , Dąbrowski Marcin
Published: August 2018

Internet of Things (IoT) affects different areas of human activities: everyday life of ordinary citizens, work style of marketing teams, factories and even entire cities. Large companies try to implement the technology in their marketing strategy that reshapes not only communication style and product promotion but consumers’ expectations, perceptions and requirements towards companies. IoT is expected to become a huge network that will encompass not only smart devices but significantly influence humans’ behavior, in this particular case - decision making style in different phases of purchase process. Therefore, the need for comprehensive scientific research is necessary. The issue needs to be reviewed from various points of view, such as opportunities, advantages, disadvantages, legal and technical considerations. The paper is an attempt to review different aspects of using Internet of Things for marketing purposes, identify some of the major problems and present possible ways of solution.
Minimization of Vibroacoustic Effects as a Criterion for Operation of Gear Transmissions in Accordance with Sustainable Development Principles
Authors: Wieczorek Andrzej N. , Kruk Radosław
Published: August 2018

In correctly functioning maintenance systems it is most important to prevent possible failures. A reduction of the vibroacoustic effects accompanying the operation of machines and equipment, including transmissions, is among the factors that lower the probability of a failure. The paper presents the results of the research on the impact of operational factors on vibroacoustic conditions of transmissions. The factors covered by the analysis included a change in the mating conditions of gear wheels associated with the wear of tooth surfaces, operation of transmissions in subharmonic conditions of the main resonance and the temperature of the lubricating oil. The study demonstrated that it was possible to reduce the vibroacoustic effects generated by gear transmissions by changing the conditions of their operation. Based on the results obtained, it has been found that the operation of gear transmissions in accordance with the sustainable development principles requires technical services to take active measures consisting in the search for optimal operating conditions in terms of the vibroacoustic conditions.
Influence of Applying Additional Forcing Fans for the Air Distribution in Ventilation Network
Authors: Szlązak Nikodem , Obracaj Dariusz , Korzec Marek
Published: August 2018

Mining progress in underground mines cause the ongoing movement of working areas. Consequently, it becomes necessary to adapt the ventilation network of a mine to direct airflow into newly-opened districts. For economic reasons, opening new fields is often achieved via underground workings. Length of primary intake and return routes increases and also increases the total resistance of a complex ventilation network. The development of a subsurface structure can make it necessary to change the air distribution in a ventilation network. Increasing airflow into newly-opened districts is necessary. In mines where extraction does not entail gas-related hazards, there is possibility of implementing a push-pull ventilation system in order to supplement airflows to newly developed mining fields. This is achieved by installing subsurface fan stations with forcing fans at the bottom of downcast shaft. In push-pull systems with multiple main fans, it is vital to select forcing fans with characteristic curves matching those of the existing exhaust fans to prevent undesirable mutual interaction. In complex ventilation networks it is necessary to calculate distribution of airflow (especially in networks with a large number of installed fans). In the article the influence of applying additional forcing fans for the air distribution in ventilation network for underground mine were considered. There are also analysed the extent of overpressure caused by the additional forcing fan in branches of the ventilation network (the operating range of additional forcing fan). Possibilities of increasing airflow rate in working areas were conducted.
Mining Security Pipe© (TSM)© with Underground GPS Global© (RSPG)© Escape Security Device in Underground Mining
Authors: Giménez Rafael Barrionuevo
Published: August 2018

TSM is escape pipe in case of collapse of terrain. The TSM is a passive security tool placed underground to connect the work area with secure area (mining gallery mainly). TSM is light and hand able pipe made with aramid (Kevlar), carbon fibre, or other kind of new material. The TSM will be placed as a pipe line network with many in/out entrances/exits to rich and connect problem work areas with another parts in a safe mode. Different levels of instrumentation could be added inside such as micro-led escape way suggested, temperature, humidity, level of oxygen, etc.). The open hardware and software like Arduino will be the heart of control and automation system.
The Development of the Market of the Production of Wind Energy in Poland and Selected EU Countries
Authors: Biernacki Grzegorz , Smyk Małgorzata , Dobosz Sandra , Górska Dalia , Musiałowska Patrycja , Materne Karolina
Published: August 2018

The paper discusses the problem of renewable energy sources, with particular focus put on wind energy. Special attention is paid to the development of this sector of production in Poland and selected UE countries in the recent years. Furthermore, selected legal acts and strategic document regulating the wind production market in Poland are pre4sented. At the same time the development potential of this are of energy production in Poland is discussed.
Analysis of Consequences of Using Gas Fuels for Running Auxiliary Ship Boilers in the Light of Contemporary Environmental Protection Requirements
Authors: Adamkiewicz Andrzej , Bartoszewski Marek , Kendra Martin
Published: August 2018

The article justifies the application of gas fuels for supplying auxiliary ship boilers. It presents legal regulations on maritime environmental protection areas and their requirements which are in power. It shows the chronology of introduced limitations on sulphur and nitrogen dioxide emissions and thresholds of carbon dioxide emission reduction expressed by EEDI (Energy Efficiency Design Indicator) and EEOI (Energy Efficiency Operational Indicator). Ways to decrease the values of EEDI and EEOI in the ship energy effectiveness management have been shown. Consequences of replacing marine fuels with LNG for running auxiliary ship boilers have been considered thoroughly, taking into account ecological, constructional, operational, procedural and logistic limitations as well as economic consequences. The summary shows the influence of particular consequences of using LNG for running boilers on the methods of maintenance of auxiliary boilers.
The Review of Instruments of Spirituality Measurement in Children
Authors: Pariľáková Michaela , Babinčák Peter
Published: August 2018

Introduction: The aim of the present paper was to point out to the actual overview of tools used to measure spirituality in child age on the basis of an analysis of studies addressing the given issue included in the full-text database EBSCOa PsycINFO.

Purpose: The analysed studies were selected according to the following criteria: a) age range of respondents 6-11 years, that means, younger school age (studies where age of respondents included upper limit of stated age range were also accepted), b) the study included the use of a specific instrument for measuring spirituality (or selected scales), c) the study included the assessment of the psychometric properties of the instruments, d) the study was not qualitative, that means, spirituality was not measured through interviews or open questions.

Methods: Altogether, 15 research studies were analysed on the basis of which 8 instruments used for measuring spirituality in children were identified of which 3 tools (FGLL, Fisher, 2004; YSS, Sifers et al. 2012; SSSC, Stoyles et al. 2012) especially developed for use in child age (6-11 years) and 5 tools (SWBQ, Gomez & Fisher, 2003; RCOPE, Pargament et al. 2000; BMMRS, Fetzer Institute, 1999; SWBS, Ellison, 1983; FACIT-SP-12, Peterman et al. 2002) originally intended for work with the older population and used in the age group 11 years and over. The tools were subsequently described in terms of the theoretical structure, in terms of assessing the psychometric properties and assessing the quality of the tools and in terms of benefits or disadvantages when used with a child’s respondent. The theoretical bases of the instruments pointed out to the problem of the inconsistent and ambiguous definition of the spirituality construct, which is reflected in the different understanding of spirituality and its dimensions.

Conclusion: The psychometric indicators of particular instruments were evaluated and scored on the basis of selected criteria. According to the assessment, the absence of retest reliability verification, verification of some types of validity and the size of the set of validation studies was found out. From the perspective of the appropriateness of the use of tools, some tools seem to be problematic in particular to understand the particular items and omitting factors (for example family, peers) playing an important role in the spirituality of children.
Quality of Life Assessment in Post-Stroke Patients
Authors: Pacian Anna , Kulik Teresa B. , Bednarz Joanna , Kaczoruk Monika , Kawiak-Jawor Ewa
Published: August 2018

Aim. Presentation of quality of life of post-stroke patients treated in the Neurology Ward of the District Specialist Hospital. Material and methods. The research covered 80 patients after stroke, treated in the Neurology Ward of the District Specialist Hospital. The study used the diagnostic survey method, the questionnaire technique and the standardized research tool: the Polish version of the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QOL), authored by Williams et al. The scale comprised 12 subscales and an overall result, all of which ranged between 1 and 5 points. Higher scores corresponded to higher quality of life. Differences between the variables were verified with nonparametric tests. The significance level was established at p<0.05. Results. Quality of life of post-stroke patients treated in the Neurology Ward of the District Specialist Hospital was at the level of 2.64, that is below the average established in the middle of the 1-5 scale. The overall quality of life was higher among women (3.02) than among men (2.39). Patients after ischemic stroke had significantly higher quality of life (at the level of 2.83) than patients after hemorrhagic stroke (at 2.23). Conclusions. The problem of patients after stroke is not only limitation of mobility due to paresis. Identification of bio-psycho-social disorders and help in overcoming them can radically change the patient’s situation. The assessment of quality of life is an indispensable task because it enables evaluation of the patient’s condition, not only in terms of effectiveness of therapy, but above all, in terms of a possibility for improvement of the patient’s quality of functioning, in the mental and social aspects.
The Development of International Economic and Monetary Cooperation in Europe
Authors: Hudec Martin
Published: August 2018

Since the end of the World War II, Europe has gone a long way on the path of a new era of socio-economic integration, continually battling and overcoming the political and economic fragmentation of earlier eras and less developed economies.

The various difficulties and interruptions of the process involved, the European integration, since the 1952 European Coal and Steel Community, ranged from an initial small group to a large community comprising most European countries, the gradual removal of market barriers leading to the introduction of a customs union to the single market. Furthermore, the creation of Economic and Monetary Union and the adoption of the common currency have become the culmination of the whole process of economic integration, since the euro is used daily by 338.6 million Europeans in 19 EU member states. The aim of our research article is to closely analyze the development of the economic and monetary integration of Europe, since we believe that the single currency project represents a great success for the European Union as the result of long-term efforts on currency and economy stability, progress and economic growth.