bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS IN URBAN SOIL
Authors: SHABANDA IBRAHIM SANI
Published: April 2019

Rapid industrialization and modernization of urban cities has resulted to serious environmental contamination by metals, as a result the exposed inhabitants experienced health consequences. Therefore health risk assessment through multiple pathways is required for the health safety of the population. However, few studies to date estimate the health risk of heavy metals via different pathways on urban soils.  Samples of urban soils  were collected from urban environments of Petaling Jaya, and were analysed for As, Cd, Cr, Cu and Pb. The health risks for adults as a result of ingestion, dermal and inhalation exposure were then estimated.  The results showed that the urban soils  were polluted with these metals. This could be due to anthropoenic input. The concentration of the metals in soils follows the decreasing order Pb > As > Cr > Cu and Cd. Ingestion is the main route for exposure to heavy metals. Both the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk values are within the permissible limits. Adults could be vulnerable to non-carcinogenic health risk (HI) on exposure to As in urban soil. 

Keyword: health risk, heavy metals, soils, dusts
ENHANCING BUSINESS PERFORMANCE OF CV PRIMANTO PANGAN SELARAS INDONESIAN FRUIT CHIPS GOES INTERNATIONAL
Authors: Wattimena Raga Etsenna , Kristian Andi , Soe Wai Wai , Ran Bojia , Delgado Selena , Alfahad Ahmad , Alomar Dhuha
Published: April 2019

Javanis Food is a trademark of Malang kripik factory which is a form of entrepreneurship spirit, based on the processing technology of various fruits and vegetables into chips as food. We want to develop the potential of chips into a delicious and nutritious product, and perform the production stages based on non-chemical research experience and hygienic supervision.

Since 2015, Javanis Food has conducted production trials and cooperated with fruit farmer groups in Malang and extends to East Java. Javanis Food learns with farmers and suppliers to produce quality standards of raw materials, through desirable quality standard education and discussion during the development and planting of fruit trees.

Javanis Food wants to continue to improve the partnership standards with fruit farmers, suppliers and business partners throughout Indonesia, to produce internationally-qualified local products.
DEVELOPING MARKETING STRATEGY OF NASATECH KITCHEN SET MALANG TO ENTER A NEW MARKET IN USA
Authors: Hartono Dina Sagita , Wiranto Josephine Christina , Aditama Reynexy Gigih , Abdulrahman Alhajeri
Published: April 2019

Nasatech is a company that produces kitchen cabinets from granite materials. Nasatech has been almost ten years in the city of Malang, Indonesia. So far, Nasatech only serve consumers who live in Malang and surrounding areas. However, Nasatech has a commitment to be able to market its products abroad if there is a chance. The excellence of Nasatech is its unique product and Nasatech has already used to use internet marketing to market its products and conduct online transactions.

Some research data show that furniture and kitchen countertops from granite materials are becoming a trend in the US so Nasatech is very suitable to market its products in the US. Nasatech needs to make some patent designs for its products with knock-down system so it is more easily shipped and marketed to the US through furniture importers in the US who can become a distributor. Internet marketing can be a good marketing strategy to enter the US market as online furniture purchase transactions increase significantly in the US. This is expected to be a good opportunity for Nasatech to enter the US market.
DEVELOPING MARKETING STRATEGY OF PT ANGKASA DWI UTAMA TO AMERICA
Authors: Yonathan Felix Calvany , Setyoviyon Ijlal , Khair Annisa Alifa , Mubarrok Muhammad Khusni , Rosli Najihah Binti
Published: April 2019

PT. Angkasa Dwi Utama, our company has two subsidiaries convinced backpackerjalanjalan.com and tour and travel of Putra Hadi. As we know traveling increasingly in demand by many people and society, but foreigners who are have travelling hobbies, our company can provide tours to several countries in Asia but our company is more concerned to travel in Indonesia. Indonesia has many beautiful spots around the country, but these spots are not published well to the other country. Because of that we use online media for promotion of our business and the hidden beautiful spots in Indonesia, we use website, facebook, twitter, etc.

This company have good management systems and interesting tour and travel packages, but this company are not doing promotion well. This company is have great potential to be better, so our team try to help this company selling the product abroad specially USA.

The recommended idea from our team is using promotion by social media. We use social media because that is the quickest way to promote it without going to the targeted country. Our team is try to cooperate with another travel agent abroad which is AmericaAsia.com

Our team are very optimistic with this project to help the company being international travel agent. We are hoping that our recommended idea can help the company to get more and more travel agent partnership.
Study of Satisfaction of Information System Users in Study Program (SIMPRODI) in Gorontalo State University
Authors: Machmud Rizan
Published: April 2019

The rapid development of Information Technology (IT) today provides many conveniences in various forms of business, including the service business. System User Satisfaction (User satisfaction) is the response and feedback that the user raises after using the information system.

This study aims to obtain empirical evidence regarding the use of SIMPRODI application products and how SIMPRODI can provide good services for students.

The survey research method was carried out and the data collected was 252 data. The data was then analyzed by PLS-SEM. The results showed that the quality of the system did not have a significant effect on the SIMPRODI intention to use, but the quality of information and quality of service was significant on the intention to use, then when the intention to use was higher the user satisfaction was better and vice versa when the SIMPRODI user satisfaction was high then intention to use is also getting higher.
Analisis Margin Dan Efisiensi Saluran Pemasaran Petani Jagung (Zea mays) Di Desa Suka Makmur Kabupaten Pohuwato Provinsi Gorontalo
Authors: Fatmawati Fatmawati , Zulham Zulham
Published: April 2019

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1) untuk mengetahui margin pemasaran jagung di Desa Suka Makmur Kecamatan Patilanggio Kabupaten Pohuwato, serta (2) untuk mengetahui efisiensi saluran pemasaran jagung di Desa Suka Makmur Kecamatan Patilanggio Kabupaten Pohuwato. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kombinasi kualitatif dan kuantitatif (mixed-method) dengan tipe sequential (kombinasi berurutan) kualitatif-kuantitatif dimana bobot kuantitatif lebih besar dibanding kualitatif (qual-QUAN). Penelitian dilaksanakan di Desa Suka Makmur, Kecamatan Patilanggio, Kabupaten Pohuwato Provinsi Gorontalo. Analisis yang digunakan adalah Analisis Miles dan Huberman, analisis biaya dan keuntungan, analisis margin pemasaran, serta analisis efisiensi saluran pemasaran. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa (1) Margin pemasaran jagung sebesar Rp 370 antara pedagang pengumpul dan pedagang besar. Pedagang pengumpul membeli hasil produksi jagung petani dengan harga Rp 2.330/kg kemudian dijual pada pedagang besar dengan harga Rp 2.700/kg. (2) Efisiensi saluran pemasaran jagung yaitu 13,43%. Hal ini berarti saluran pemasaran jagung sudah efisien.
Economics of Black gram cultivation and its impact on farmers livelihood in two selected districts of Bangladesh
Authors: Mohiuddin M , Akter N , Khanum R
Published: April 2019

The present study is an attempt to assess the existing agronomic practices of black gram cultivation, its impact on farmers livelihood and constraints of black gram production and marketing. Primary data from 85 farmers were collected during February to March 2016 through face to face interviews. Descriptive statistics and Garret ranking method were used to analyze the data. The majority of the farmers had sown seeds during the last week of September to first week of October. The average seed rate was found to be 19.36 kg per hectare which indicated that all farm households used below recommended dose of seeds (35-40 kg/ha). The average yield of black gram was found higher than the national average. The average net income was observed to be Tk. 26990 and Tk. 19845 in Sherpur and Jamalpur respectively. The average gross margin was observed to be Tk. 37629 on total variable cost basis. It was also found that average returns to labour was Tk. 1000/man-day in Sherpur and Tk. 692/man-day in Jamalpur district respectively. It was also observed that all kinds of livelihood assets of the selected farmers increased significantly through black gram farming. The results revealed that the main constraints faced by black gram grower were lack of irrigation facility, non availability of HYV seeds, low output price, labour scarcity, lack of knowledge about improved varieties with their production technology, excessive rainfall after flowering and weak research-extension farmers linkage etc. Farmers also faced some marketing related problems such as limited buyers, price instability, lack of storage facilities and high market toll. Farmers cultivated black gram because of higher yield, higher income, and easy growing.

SAARC J. Agri., 16(2): 83-96 (2018)
Performance of different organic fertilizers in improving growth and yield of boro rice
Authors: Hoque TS , Jahan I , Islam MR , Ahmed M
Published: April 2019

A field experiment was conducted at two locations i.e. at Soil Science Field of Bangladesh Agricultural University and at Farmer’s field of Fakirakanda village of Mymensingh Sadar to evaluate the effects of different organic fertilizers on the growth and yield of rice (BRRI dhan28). The experiments at each location containing seven treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments were T0: Control, T1: 75% RFD; T2: 100% RFD, T3: 75% RFD + Kazi Jaibo Shar (5 tha-1), T4: 75% RFD + Kazi Jaibo Shar (3 t ha-1), T5: 75% RFD + Poultry manure (3 t ha-1) and T6: 75% RFD + Cow dung (5 t ha-1). Application of poultry manure as well as Kazi Jaibo Shar showed positive effects on yield attributes, grain and straw yields of rice, nutrient (N, P, K and S) contents and uptake by grain, straw and in total. The performance of 75% RFD with poultry manure @ 3 t ha-1 was the best in producing yield components, grain and straw yields of rice. At both locations, the performance of same dose (3 t ha-1) of poultry manure and Kazi Jaibo Shar was almost similar in producing growth and yield contributing characters, grain and straw yields, - nutrient content and uptake by rice while each of these manures compensated up to 25% of recommended chemical fertilizers. Therefore, considering the soil health, poultry manure or Kazi Jaibo Shar @ 3 t ha-1 is recommended for growth and yield enhancement in rice.

SAARC J. Agri., 16(2): 153-166 (2018)
Residual effects of different manures and fertilizers applied to preceding potato crop on succeeding Mung bean (vigna radiate l.) crop in potato-mung bean-rice cropping pattern
Authors: Bilkis S , Islam MR , Jahiruddin M , Rahman MM , Hoque TS
Published: April 2019

The present study was done at Bangladesh Agricultural University farm to evaluate the field performances of different types of manures viz. cowdung (CD), cowdung slurry (CD slurry), trichocompost (TC), vermicompost (VC), poultry manure (PM) and poultry manure slurry (PM slurry) with chemical fertilizers in the potato-mungbean-T. aman rice cropping pattern during 2011-12 and 2012-13. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design, with three replications and eight treatments including T1 (Control), T2 [HYG based 100% chemical fertilizer (CF)], T3 [CD + CF (IPNS basis)], T4 [CD slurry + CF (IPNS basis)], T5 [PM + CF (IPNS basis)], T6 [PM slurry + CF (IPNS basis)], T7 [TC + CF (IPNS basis)] and T8 [VC + CF (IPNS basis)]. Trichocompost + CF and vermicompost + CF containing treatments produced higher crop yield followed by poultry manure slurry and cowdung slurry. Integrated use of manures and fertilizers gave on an average 6.7-33.7%, 8.3-33.8% and 2.9-18.3% yield increase in potato, mungbean and T. aman rice, respectively over sole application of chemical fertilizers (data not shown). Use of IPNS improved nutrient content and uptake of mungbean. The present study thus indicates that use of manure, especially trichocompost, vermicompost, PM slurry and CD slurry integrated with chemical fertilizers would help increase crop yield and improve soil fertility. However, Trichocompost + CF was the best option in this regard.

SAARC J. Agri., 16(2): 167-179 (2018)
Обеспечение огнесохранности конструкций учебно-тренажерных комплексов для подготовки спасателей-пожарных
Authors: Волочко Александр , Подболотов Кирилл , Яшеня Дмитрий , Бардушко Сергей
Published: April 2019

Изучены способы и средства обеспечения огнесохранности строительных конструкций учебно-тренажерных комплексов для подготовки спасателей пожарных. Исходя из теплофизических свойств материалов, их доступности и стоимости в Республике Беларусь определены средства огнезащиты от многократного высокотемпературного воздействия (до 1200 °С). Разработана методика испытаний системы огнезащиты, которая позволяет дать оценку термостойкости и теплоизолирующей способности испытываемого образца, подвергаемого идентичному огневому воздействию реальных условий эксплуатации.
Метод кейсов как эффективная образовательная технология при изучении интегрированной учебной дисциплины «Безопасность жизнедеятельности человека»
Authors: Дюбкова Татьяна
Published: April 2019

В статье представлен опыт обучения студентов посредством метода кейсов при освоении содержания дисциплины «Безопасность жизнедеятельности человека» в Белорусском государственном университете. Метод кейсов использован для развития у студентов способностей к анализу чрезвычайной ситуации, поиску оптимального паттерна поведения и формирования мотивации к повышению уровня физической культуры. Установлено, что высокий уровень физической подготовленности, развитие эмоционально-волевых и нравственных качеств, способности к самоконтролю и саморегуляции поведения являются дополнительным ресурсом выживания человека в чрезвычайных ситуациях природного и техногенного характера.
Optimum Sowing Dates for High-Yield Maize when Grown as Sole Crop in the North China Plain
Authors: Zhang Xuepeng , Cheng Jiali , Wang Biao , Yan Peng , Dai Hongcui , Chen Yuanquan , Sui Peng
Published: April 2019

The maize sole cropping system solves problems related to ground water resource shortages and guarantees food security in the North China Plain. Using optimal sowing dates is an effective management practice for increasing maize yield. The goal of this study was to explore an optimum sowing date for high-yield maize. Six sowing dates (SDs) from early April to late June with intervals of 10 to 20 days between SD—SD1 (early April), SD2 (mid to late April), SD3 (early May), SD4 (mid to late May), SD5 (early June), SD6 (late June)—were applied from 2012 to 2017. The results showed that yield was correlated with the sowing date based on the thermal time before sowing (r = 0.62**), which was defined as the pre-thermal time (PTt), and that the yield was steadily maintained at a high level (>10,500 kg ha−1) when PTt was greater than 479 °C. To satisfy the growing degree-days required for maturity, maize needs to be sown before a PTt of 750 °C. Data analysis of the results from 2014, 2015, and 2017 revealed the following: i) Most of the grain-filling parameters of late-sown dates (SD4, SD5 and SD6) were better than those in early-sown dates (SD1, SD2, and SD3) in all years, because of the high daily maximum temperature (Tmax) and wide diurnal temperature (Td) from silking to blister (R1–R2) of early-sown dates. The weight of maximum grain-filling rate (Wmax) of SD3 decreased compare with SD4 by the narrow Td from blister to physiological maturity (R2–R6) in all years (−5, −12, and −33 mg kernel−1 in 2014, 2015, and 2017, respectively). ii) In 2017, the pollination failure rates of early-sown dates were 8.4~14.5%, which was caused by the high Tmax and Td of R1–R2. The apical kernel abortion rates were 28.6 (SD2) and 38.7% (SD3), which were affected by Tmax and Td during R2–R6. iii) Compared with late-sown dates, the wide Td of early-sown dates in R1–R2 was caused by higher Tmax, but the narrow Td in R2-R6 was caused by higher Tmin. Our results indicate that high-yielding maize can be obtained by postponing the sowing date with a PTt of 480~750 °C, which can prevent the negative effects of the high Tmax of R1–R2 and high Tmin of R2–R6 on kernel number and weight formation. Moreover, these above-mentioned traits should be considered for heat tolerance breeding to further increase the maize yield.
First Principles Study on the Effect of Pressure on the Structure, Elasticity, and Magnetic Properties of Cubic GaFe(CN)6 Prussian Blue Analogue
Authors: Zhang Chuankun , Huang Haiming , Luo Shijun
Published: April 2019

The structure, elasticity, and magnetic properties of Prussian blue analogue GaFe(CN)6 under external pressure ranges from 0 to 40 GPa were studied by first principles calculations. In the range of pressure from 0 to 35 GPa, GaFe(CN)6 not only has the half-metallic characteristics of 100% spin polarization, but also has stable mechanical properties. The external pressure has no obvious effect on the crystal structure and anisotropy of GaFe(CN)6, but when the pressure exceeds 35 GPa, the half-metallicity of GaFe(CN)6 disappears, the mechanical properties are no longer stable, and total magnetic moments per formula unit are no longer integer values.
The Telocytes in the Subepicardial Niche
Authors: Iancu Cristian Bogdan , Rusu Mugurel Constantin , Mogoantă Laurenţiu , Hostiuc Sorin , Toader Oana Daniela
Published: April 2019

A great interest has developed over the last several years in research on interstitial Cajal-like cells (ICLCs), later renamed to telocytes (TCs). Such studies are restricted by diverse limitations. We aimed to critically review (sub)epicardial ICLCs/TCs and to bring forward supplemental immunohistochemical evidence on (sub)epicardial stromal niche inhabitants. We tested the epicardial expressions of CD117/c-kit, CD34, Cytokeratin 7 (CK7), Ki67, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor (PDGFR)-α and D2-40 in adult human cardiac samples. The mesothelial epicardial cells expressed D2-40, CK7, CD117/c-kit and PDGFR-α. Subepicardial D2-40-positive lymphatic vessels and isolated D2-40-positive and CK7-positive subepicardial cells were also found. Immediate submesothelial spindle-shaped cells expressed Ki-67. Submesothelial stromal cells and endothelial tubes were PDGFR-α-positive and CD34-positive. The expression of CD34 was pan-stromal, so a particular stromal cell type could not be distinguished. The stromal expression of CD117/c-kit was also noted. It seems that epicardial TCs could not be regarded as belonging to a unique cell type until (pre)lymphatic endothelial cells are inadequately excluded. Markers such as CD117/c-kit or CD34 seem to be improper for identifying TCs as a distinctive cell type. Care should be taken when using the immunohistochemical method and histological interpretations, as they may not produce accurate results.
RCS and Aero Surfaces Control Allocation Research on RLV’s Re-Entry Phase
Authors: Mu Rongjun , Zhang Xin , Wu Peng , Chen Jiaye
Published: April 2019

Based on the characteristics of aero surfaces and reaction control system (RCS), a control allocation scheme is needed to specify aero surface deflections and RCS thruster’s firing commands, during the re-entry phase of reusable launch vehicle (RLV). To analyze the control performance differences introduced by different allocation algorithms, this paper presents a proportional allocation scheme based on dynamic pressure, a daisy-chaining allocation scheme based on the control error, and a multi-object-based optimal allocation scheme, to deal with the allocation problem of RCS and aero surfaces. The first allocation scheme is the simplest, and the second one is more complicated, when considering the actuators’ physical constraints in the allocation problem. The third scheme not only takes the physical constraints into account, but also the rate constraints, and other constraints of RCS and aero surfaces, while for the objective optimization function, not like the single-object function of the other two schemes, it combines the allocation error minimization, fuel consumption minimization, and other functions, with the adaptive weight values. After the stability analysis, the feasibility of the aforementioned allocation schemes are verified by the simulation, and the contrastive analysis of their control performances are followed.
Electric Vehicles’ User Charging Behaviour Simulator for a Smart City
Authors: Canizes Bruno , Soares João , Costa Angelo , Pinto Tiago , Lezama Fernando , Novais Paulo , Vale Zita
Published: April 2019

The increase of variable renewable energy generation has brought several new challenges to power and energy systems. Solutions based on storage systems and consumption flexibility are being proposed to balance the variability from generation sources that depend directly on environmental conditions. The widespread use of electric vehicles is seen as a resource that includes both distributed storage capabilities and the potential for consumption (charging) flexibility. However, to take advantage of the full potential of electric vehicles’ flexibility, it is essential that proper incentives are provided and that the management is performed with the variation of generation. This paper presents a research study on the impact of the variation of the electricity prices on the behavior of electric vehicle’s users. This study compared the benefits when using the variable and fixed charging prices. The variable prices are determined based on the calculation of distribution locational marginal pricing, which are recalculated and adapted continuously accordingly to the users’ trips and behavior. A travel simulation tool was developed for simulating real environments taking into account the behavior of real users. Results show that variable-rate of electricity prices demonstrate to be more advantageous to the users, enabling them to reduce charging costs while contributing to the required flexibility for the system.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Energy Saving Control for Air Conditioning System in Data Center
Authors: Yao Leehter , Huang Jin-Hao
Published: April 2019

A multi-objective optimization scheme is proposed to save energy for a data center air conditioning system (ACS). Since the air handling units (AHU) and chillers are the most energy consuming facilities, the proposed energy saving control scheme aims to maximize the saved energy for these two facilities. However, the rack intake air temperature tends to increase if the energy saving control scheme applied to AHU and chillers is conducted inappropriately. Both ACS energy consumption and rack intake air temperature stabilization are set as two objectives for multi-objective optimization. The non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) is utilized to solve the multi-objective optimization problem. In order for the NSGA-II to evaluate fitness functions that are both the ACS total power consumption and AHU outlet cold air temperature deviations from a specified range, neural network models are utilized. Feedforward neural networks are utilized to learn the power consumption models for both chillers and AHUs as well as the AHU outlet cold air temperature based on the recorded data collected in the field. The effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed energy saving control scheme is verified through practical experiments conducted on a campus data center ACS.
Wuqinxi Qigong as an Alternative Exercise for Improving Risk Factors Associated with Metabolic Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zou Liye , Zhang Yangjie , Sasaki Jeffer Eidi , Yeung Albert S. , Yang Lin , Loprinzi Paul D. , Sun Jian , Liu Shijie , Yu Jane Jie , Sun Shengyan , Mai Yuqiang
Published: April 2019

Background: The improvement of living standards has led to increases in the prevalence of hypokinetic diseases. In particular, multifactorial complex diseases, such as metabolic syndrome, are becoming more prevalent. Currently, developing effective methods to combat or prevent metabolic syndrome is of critical public health importance. Thus, we conducted a systematic review to evaluate the existing literature regarding the effects of Wuqinxi exercise on reducing risk factors related to metabolic syndrome. Methods: Both English- and Chinese-language databases were searched for randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of Wuqinxi on these outcomes. Meanwhile, we extracted usable data for computing pooled effect size estimates, along with the random-effects model. Results: The synthesized results showed positive effects of Wuqinxi exercise on systolic blood pressure (SBP, SMD = 0.62, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.85, p < 0.001, I2 = 24.06%), diastolic blood pressure (DBP, SMD = 0.62, 95% CI 0.22 to 1.00, p < 0.001, I2 = 61.28%), total plasma cholesterol (TC, SMD = 0.88, 95% CI 0.41 to 1.36, p < 0.001, I2 = 78.71%), triglyceride (TG, SMD = 0.87, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.24, p < 0.001, I2 = 67.22%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, SMD = 1.24, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.72, p < 0.001, I2 = 78.27%), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL, SMD = 0.95, 95% CI 0.43 to 1.46, p < 0.001, I2 = 82.27%). In addition, regression results showed that longer-duration Wuqinxi intervention significantly improved DBP (β = 0.00016, Q = 5.72, df = 1, p = 0.02), TC (β = −0.00010, Q = 9.03, df = 1, p = 0.01), TG (β = 0.00012, Q = 6.23, df = 1, p = 0.01), and LDL (β = 0.00011, Q = 5.52, df = 1, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Wuqinxi may be an effective intervention to alleviate the cardiovascular disease risk factors of metabolic syndrome.
Demographic Forecasts Using the Game Theory
Authors: Ogryzek Marek , Rząsa Krzysztof , Šarkienė Edita
Published: April 2019

This paper offers certain predictions concerning the demographic population of the cities Vilnius and Olsztyn. The authors used a method of analyzing and synthesizing data sources, and comparing the actual data with the forecast between the years 1997–2014. Each prediction was prepared in connection with its use in various areas of life, particularly for all studies involving spatial planning. The data collected on the basis of the forecasts were used by spatial planners to devise strategies for local development at the city, municipality, and provincial levels. In this sense, they created basic documents for the sustainable planning of space. The process of forecasting is a difficult and complex issue, and its accuracy determines both the choice of methods and the quality of the output. Our study sets out predictions concerning the demographic processes over the coming years in the two cities mentioned. Given that all long-range forecasts are characterized by high risk, especially taking into account the unstable political situation in Europe, the steadily deteriorating situation in the labor market and rising social discontent are of relevance, as they are causing the ongoing dynamics of the population to change, making statistical errors more likely and more serious. This has meant that organizations like Poland’s Central Statistical Office, Eurostat, and the United Nations have to adjust their demographic projections at least every two years, and the methods for making demographic forecasts which are used by governmental institutions have proven to be less than satisfactory. The main purpose of the article, therefore, is to present the authors’ method of making demographic projections by using elements of game theory. The results obtained in this method were compared with the results of the forecasting methods currently used by the governments of Poland and Lithuania. The developed method, based on the same input data and analogous coefficients, brings more probable results.
Early Lifestyle Interventions in People with Impaired Glucose Tolerance in Northern Colombia: The DEMOJUAN Project
Authors: Barengo Noël C. , Acosta Tania , Arrieta Astrid , Ricaurte Carlos , Smits Dins , Florez Karen , Tuomilehto Jaakko O.
Published: April 2019

Background: The objective of the demonstration project for type 2 diabetes prevention in the Barranquilla and Juan Mina (DEMOJUAN) study was to investigate the extent to which it is possible to reach normal glucose metabolism with early lifestyle interventions in people at high risk of type 2 diabetes (prediabetes), compared with those who receive standard usual care. Methods: DEMOJUAN was a randomized controlled trial conducted in Juan Mina and Barranquilla, Northern Colombia. Eligible participants were randomized into one of three groups (control group, initial nutritional intervention, and initial physical activity intervention). The duration of the intervention was 24 months. The main study outcome in the present analysis was reversion to normoglycemia. Relative risks and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated for reversal to normoglycemia and T2D incidence. Results: There was no statistically significant association between the intervention groups and reversion to normoglycemia. The relative risk of reversion to normoglycemia was 0.88 (95% CI 0.70–1.12) for the initial nutritional intervention group participants and 0.95 (95% CI 0.75–1.20) for the initial physical activity intervention group participants. Conclusions: Our study did not find any statistically significant differences in reversion to normoglycemia or the development of type 2 diabetes between the intervention groups and the control group in this population.
Predicting Methane Concentration in Longwall Regions Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Tutak Magdalena , Brodny Jarosław
Published: April 2019

Methane, which is released during mining exploitation, represents a serious threat to this process. This is because the gas may ignite or cause an explosion. Both of these phenomena are extremely dangerous. High levels of methane concentration in mine headings disrupt mining operations and cause the risk of fire or explosion. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor and predict its concentration in the areas of ongoing mining exploitation. The paper presents the results of tests performed to improve work safety. The article presents the methodology of using artificial neural networks for predicting methane concentration values in one mining area. The objective of the paper is to develop an effective method for forecasting methane concentration in the mining industry. The application of neural networks for this purpose represents one of the first attempts in this respect. The method developed makes use of direct methane concentration values measured by a system of sensors located in the exploitation area. The forecasting model was built on the basis of a Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) network. The corresponding calculations were performed using a three-layered network with non-linear activation functions. The results obtained in the form of methane concentration prediction demonstrated minor errors in relation to the recorded values of this concentration. This offers an opportunity for a broader application of intelligent systems for effective prediction of mining hazards.
Short-Term Effects of Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Endurance and Maximal Force Production: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alix-Fages Carlos , Romero-Arenas Salvador , Castro-Alonso Marcos , Colomer-Poveda David , Río-Rodriguez Dan , Jerez-Martínez Agustín , Fernandez-del-Olmo Miguel , Márquez Gonzalo
Published: April 2019

The purpose of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to explore the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on endurance (i.e., time to task failure (TTF)) and maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Furthermore, we aimed to analyze whether the duration of stimulation, the brain region targeted for stimulation, and the task performed could also influence motor performance. We performed a systematic literature review in the databases MEDLINE and Web of Science. The short-term effects of anodal tDCS and sham stimulation (placebo) were considered as experimental and control conditions, respectively. A total of 31 interventions were included (MVC = 13; TTF = 18). Analysis of the strength-related tDCS studies showed small improvements in the MVC (SMD = 0.19; 95% CI = −0.02, 0.41; p = 0.08). However, the results of the endurance-related interventions indicated a moderate effect on TTF performance (SMD = 0.26; 95% CI = 0.07, 0.45; p = 0.008). Furthermore, the sub-analysis showed that anodal tDCS over M1 and stimulation durations longer than 10 min produced the best results in terms of TTF performance enhancement. Additionally, the effects of anodal tDCS were larger during full body exercises (i.e., cycling) when compared to uniarticular tasks. In conclusion, the current meta-analysis indicated that anodal tDCS leads to small and moderate effects on MVC and TTF, respectively.
Structure and Deformation Behavior of Ti-SiC Composites Made by Mechanical Alloying and Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Garbiec Dariusz , Leshchynsky Volf , Colella Alberto , Matteazzi Paolo , Siwak Piotr
Published: April 2019

Combining high energy ball milling and spark plasma sintering is one of the most promising technologies in materials science. The mechanical alloying process enables the production of nanostructured composite powders that can be successfully spark plasma sintered in a very short time, while preserving the nanostructure and enhancing the mechanical properties of the composite. Composites with MAX phases are among the most promising materials. In this study, Ti/SiC composite powder was produced by high energy ball milling and then consolidated by spark plasma sintering. During both processes, Ti3SiC2, TiC and Ti5Si3 phases were formed. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction study showed that the phase composition of the spark plasma sintered composites consists mainly of Ti3SiC2 and a mixture of TiC and Ti5Si3 phases which have a different indentation size effect. The influence of the sintering temperature on the Ti-SiC composite structure and properties is defined. The effect of the Ti3SiC2 MAX phase grain growth was found at a sintering temperature of 1400–1450 °C. The indentation size effect at the nanoscale for Ti3SiC2, TiC+Ti5Si3 and SiC-Ti phases is analyzed on the basis of the strain gradient plasticity theory and the equation constants were defined.
Value-Added Application of Waste Rubber and Waste Plastic in Asphalt Binder as a Multifunctional Additive
Authors: Ling Tianqing , Lu Ya , Zhang Zeyu , Li Chuanqiang , Oeser Markus
Published: April 2019

The feasibility and effectivity of recycling waste rubber and waste plastic (WRP) into asphalt binder as a waste treatment approach has been documented. However, directly blending WRP with asphalt binder brings secondary environmental pollution. Recent research has shown that the addition of WRP into asphalt binder may potentially improve the workability of asphalt binder without significantly compromising its mechanical properties. This study evaluates the feasibility of using the additives derived from WRP as a multifunctional additive which improves both the workability and mechanical properties of asphalt binder. For this purpose, WRP-derived additives were prepared in laboratory. Then, three empirical characteristics—viscosity, rutting factor, fatigue life were analyzed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were employed to evaluate the effect of WRP-derived additive on the workability and chemical and mechanical properties of base binder. The dispersity of WRP-derived additive inside asphalt binder was also characterized using fluorescence microscope (FM). Results from this study showed that adding WRP-derived additive increases the workability of base binder. The WRP-derived additive appears positive on the high- and low- temperature performance as well as the fatigue life of base binder. The distribution of the WRP-derived additive inside base binder was uniform. In addition, the modification mechanism of WRP-derived additive was also proposed in this paper.
Resistive Switching Characteristics of Li-Doped ZnO Thin Films Based on Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Zhao Xiaofeng , Li Yi , Ai Chunpeng , Wen Dianzhong
Published: April 2019

A kind of devices Pt/Ag/ZnO:Li/Pt/Ti with high resistive switching behaviors were prepared on a SiO2/Si substrate by using magnetron sputtering method and mask technology, composed of a bottom electrode (BE) of Pt/Ti, a resistive switching layer of ZnO:Li thin film and a top electrode (TE) of Pt/Ag. To determine the crystal lattice structure and the Li-doped concentration in the resulted ZnO thin films, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) tests were carried out. Resistive switching behaviors of the devices with different thicknesses of Li-doped ZnO thin films were studied at different set and reset voltages based on analog and digital resistive switching characteristics. At room temperature, the fabricated devices represent stable bipolar resistive switching behaviors with a low set voltage, a high switching current ratio and a long retention up to 104 s. In addition, the device can sustain an excellent endurance more than 103 cycles at an applied pulse voltage. The mechanism on how the thicknesses of the Li-doped ZnO thin films affect the resistive switching behaviors was investigated by installing conduction mechanism models. This study provides a new strategy for fabricating the resistive random access memory (ReRAM) device used in practice.
Microplastics Detection in Streaming Tap Water with Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Kniggendorf Ann-Kathrin , Wetzel Christoph , Roth Bernhard
Published: April 2019

Microplastic particles have been found in drinking water sources worldwide and, thus, also in our food and beverages. Especially small microplastics, with sizes of 1 mm and less, cannot be identified reliably without spectroscopic means such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) or Raman spectroscopy, usually applied to the particles extracted from the samples. However, for drinking and tap water, with its comparatively low biological loads, direct observation may be possible and allows a point-of-entry monitoring for beverages and food to ensure uncontaminated drinking water is being used. In a proof of concept, we apply Raman spectroscopy to observe individual microplastic particles in tap water with added particulate and fluorescent contaminants streaming with 1 L/h through a custom-made flow cell. We evaluated several tubing materials for compatibility with microplastic suspensions containing three different polymers widely found in microplastic surveys worldwide. The experiment promises the monitoring of streaming tap water and even clear surface waters for microplastics smaller than 0.1 mm.
HD/FD and DF/AF with Fixed-Gain or Variable-Gain Protocol Switching Mechanism over Cooperative NOMA for Green-Wireless Networks
Authors: Tran Thanh-Nam , Voznak Miroslav
Published: April 2019

This article studied the application of multiple protocol switching mechanism (PSM) over cooperating Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) networks to minimize the probability of outage and maximize the system throughput and energy efficiency (EE). This study investigated six scenarios: (1) a cooperative NOMA system with half-duplex (HD) and decode-and-forward (DF) protocols at the relay; (2) a cooperative NOMA system with full-duplex (FD) and DF protocols at the relay; (3) a cooperative NOMA system with HD and amplification amplify-and-forward (AF) with fixed-gain (FG) protocols at the relay; (4) a cooperative NOMA system with HD and amplification AF with variable-gain (VG) protocols at the relay; (5) a cooperative NOMA system with FD and amplification AF with FG protocols at the relay; (6) a cooperative NOMA system with FD and amplification AF with VG protocols at the relay. Based on the results of analysis and simulations, the study determined the transmission scenario for best system performance. This paper also proposed a mechanism to switch between HD/FD and DF/AF with FG/VG protocols in order to improve the quality of service (QoS) for users with a weak conditional channel. This mechanism can be deployed in future 5G wireless network sensors. Finally, EE was also assessed in relation to future green-wireless networks (G-WNs).
Machined Surface Quality Monitoring Using a Wireless Sensory Tool Holder in the Machining Process
Authors: Lu Zhiyuan , Wang Meiqing , Dai Wei
Published: April 2019

The quality of a machined surface plays a critical role in assembly performance, especially for precise matching parts, and therefore it is necessary to develop a surface quality monitoring system in the machining process. In this paper, an indirect surface quality monitoring approach is proposed with a wireless sensory tool holder. First, experimentation is conducted to collect the machining process signals from the tool holder. Then, the time domain, frequency domain and time–frequency domain features are extracted, and the deep forest algorithm is adopted to identify the surface quality, which is evaluated through the surface average parameter. Finally, the results of the experiment and the comparisons with other approaches demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, which could be applied to ensure the surface quality, improve the machining efficiency and reduce the rejection rate of the machining process.
Continuous Stress Detection Using Wearable Sensors in Real Life: Algorithmic Programming Contest Case Study
Authors: Can Yekta Said , Chalabianloo Niaz , Ekiz Deniz , Ersoy Cem
Published: April 2019

The negative effects of mental stress on human health has been known for decades. High-level stress must be detected at early stages to prevent these negative effects. After the emergence of wearable devices that could be part of our lives, researchers have started detecting extreme stress of individuals with them during daily routines. Initial experiments were performed in laboratory environments and recently a number of works took a step outside the laboratory environment to the real-life. We developed an automatic stress detection system using physiological signals obtained from unobtrusive smart wearable devices which can be carried during the daily life routines of individuals. This system has modality-specific artifact removal and feature extraction methods for real-life conditions. We further tested our system in a real-life setting with collected physiological data from 21 participants of an algorithmic programming contest for nine days. This event had lectures, contests as well as free time. By using heart activity, skin conductance and accelerometer signals, we successfully discriminated contest stress, relatively higher cognitive load (lecture) and relaxed time activities by using different machine learning methods.
Comparison of Leaf Area Index, Surface Temperature, and Actual Evapotranspiration Estimated Using the METRIC Model and In Situ Measurements
Authors: Reyes-González Arturo , Kjaersgaard Jeppe , Trooien Todd , Reta-Sánchez David G. , Sánchez-Duarte Juan I. , Preciado-Rangel Pablo , Fortis-Hernández Manuel
Published: April 2019

The verification of remotely sensed estimates of surface variables is essential for any remote sensing study. The objective of this study was to compare leaf area index (LAI), surface temperature (Ts), and actual evapotranspiration (ETa), estimated using the remote sensing-based METRIC model and in situ measurements collected at the satellite overpass time. The study was carried out at a commercial corn field in eastern South Dakota. Six clear-sky images from Landsat 7 and Landsat 8 (Path 29, Row 29) were processed and used for the assessment. LAI and Ts were measured in situ, and ETa was estimated using an atmometer and independent crop coefficients. The results revealed good agreement between the variables measured in situ and estimated by the METRIC model. LAI showed r2 = 0.76, and RMSE = 0.59 m2 m−2, the Ts comparison had an agreement of r2 = 0.87 and RMSE 1.24 °C, and ETa presented r2 = 0.89 and RMSE = 0.71 mm day−1.
Evaluation of Green Roof Performance in Mitigating the Impact of Extreme Storms
Authors: Liu Xin , Chui Ting Fong May
Published: April 2019

Green roofs are used in urban areas to mitigate the adverse effects of stormwater. Through numerical modeling, this study evaluates the impacts of design parameters on green roof hydrological performance under different rainfall characteristics. A calibrated model is run with long-term precipitation data series for three locations (Hong Kong, China; Beltsville, MD, USA; and Sidney, NY, USA). The results show that the amount of peak runoff reduction increases with the duration of the storm return period in Beltsville and Sidney; while the trend is opposite in Hong Kong. Percentage peak reduction generally shows a decreasing trend with the storm return period in three locations. For average runoff reduction, the amount of reduction increases with the storm return period, whereas the percentage reduction presents an opposite trend in all three locations. The actual values vary between the three locations due to differences in rainfall characteristics. Both peak and average runoff reduction increase with green roof thickness, but in practice, it is not cost effective or feasible to increase the thickness beyond a certain threshold. The hydraulic conductivity can then be optimized for peak runoff reduction and it is found to increase with the return period. However, hydraulic conductivity has a minimal effect on average runoff reduction. Overall, this paper studies green roof hydrological performance in response to different rainfall characteristics and provides recommendations on green roof designs related to soil thickness and hydraulic conductivity.
Turist Rehberlerinin Meslekten Beklentileri Üzerine Bir Araştırma
Authors: Koçak Bünyamin , Kabakulak Ali
Published: April 2019

Çalışmanın
Amacı ve Önemi: Profesyonel turist rehberlerinin mesleki
beklentilerini belirleyerek çözüm önerileri getirmeyi amaçlayan bu araştırma,
Bursa’da rehberlik mesleğini icra eden 25 profesyonel turist rehberi üzerinde
meslekten beklentilerini belirlemek amacıyla yapılmıştır. Literatür taraması yapılarak ölçekte yer alan
ifadeler belirlenmiş ve turist rehberlerine anketler uygulanmış, bu
uygulamalar esnasında gerekli durumlarda turist rehberleri ile yüz yüze
görüşmeler yapılarak süreç desteklenmiş ve verimli sonuçlar alınabilmesi için
katılımcılara detaylı bilgi verilmiştir.

Çalışmanın
Yöntemi: Turist rehberlerinin mesleki
beklentilerinin ele alındığı bu araştırmada ihtiyaç duyulan verilerin elde
edilmesi için anket tekniğinden yararlanılmıştır. Anket temel olarak iki
bölümden oluşmaktadır. Anketin ilk bölümünde katılımcılara ait demografik
bilgilere, ikinci bölümde mesleki beklentilere ilişkin 7 ifadeye yer
verilmiştir. İfadelerin oluşturulmasında literatürden faydalanılmış, 5’li
Likert tipi ölçek kullanılmıştır. Araştırma verileri Mart-Nisan 2017 döneminde
rehberler ile yüz yüze görüşülerek anketler elden dağıtılmış ve 25 turist
rehberi araştırmaya katılmıştır.

Bulgular: Araştırmaya katılan 25 turist
rehberinin uzun yıllar rehberlik mesleğini yapmak istedikleri ancak, gelecekte tam
olarak ne yapmak istediklerine karar veremedikleri ortaya çıkmıştır.

Çalışmanın Sınırlılıkları:  Bu çalışma 2017 yılının Mart-Nisan
aylarında Bursa’da 25 turist rehberi üzerinde gerçekleştirilmiştir. Dolayısıyla
Türkiye’de Haziran ayı itibariyle 10407 turist rehberi olduğu düşünülerse
sınırlı bir örneklem üzerinde bu araştırma gerçekleştirilmiştir. Bu araştırmada
Türkiye’de bulunan 13 rehber odasına ve 10407 rehbere ulaşmak mümkün
olmamıştır. Bu durum zaman ve maliyet kısıtlarını ortaya çıkarmıştır.