bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Enhancement of Pedestrian Navigation Systems Based on Low-Cost Foot-Mounted MEMS-IMU/Ultrasonic Sensor
Authors: Xia Ming , Xiu Chundi , Yang Dongkai , Wang Li
Published: January 2019

The pedestrian navigation system (PNS) based on inertial navigation system-extended Kalman filter-zero velocity update (INS-EKF-ZUPT or IEZ) is widely used in complex environments without external infrastructure owing to its characteristics of autonomy and continuity. IEZ, however, suffers from performance degradation caused by the dynamic change of process noise statistics and heading estimation errors. The main goal of this study is to effectively improve the accuracy and robustness of pedestrian localization based on the integration of the low-cost foot-mounted microelectromechanical system inertial measurement unit (MEMS-IMU) and ultrasonic sensor. The proposed solution has two main components: (1) the fuzzy inference system (FIS) is exploited to generate the adaptive factor for extended Kalman filter (EKF) after addressing the mismatch between statistical sample covariance of innovation and the theoretical one, and the fuzzy adaptive EKF (FAEKF) based on the MEMS-IMU/ultrasonic sensor for pedestrians was proposed. Accordingly, the adaptive factor is applied to correct process noise covariance that accurately reflects previous state estimations. (2) A straight motion heading update (SMHU) algorithm is developed to detect whether a straight walk happens and to revise errors in heading if the ultrasonic sensor detects the distance between the foot and reflection point of the wall. The experimental results show that horizontal positioning error is less than 2% of the total travelled distance (TTD) in different environments, which is the same order of positioning error compared with other works using high-end MEMS-IMU. It is concluded that the proposed approach can achieve high performance for PNS in terms of accuracy and robustness.
In Search of the “Good Life”: The Appeal of the Tiny House Lifestyle in the USA
Authors: Mangold Severin , Zschau Toralf
Published: January 2019

Over the past decade, tiny houses and the lifestyle they promote have become a world-wide phenomenon, with the trend especially impactful in the United States. Given their broad appeal and increasing prominence within popular culture, it is surprising how little research exists on them. To help to better understand what motivates people to adopt this lifestyle, this paper presents insights from an exploratory study in the United States and offers the first contours of a new conceptual framework. Situating the lifestyle within the larger economic and cultural forces of our times, it argues that going “tiny” is seen by tiny house enthusiasts as a practical roadmap to the Good Life: A simpler life characterized by more security, autonomy, relationships, and meaningful experiences. The paper ends with a brief discussion of broader implications and directions for future research.
Intermittent Dieting: Theoretical Considerations for the Athlete
Authors: Peos Jackson , Norton Layne , Helms Eric , Galpin Andrew , Fournier Paul
Published: January 2019

Athletes utilise numerous strategies to reduce body weight or body fat prior to competition. The traditional approach requires continuous energy restriction (CER) for the entire weight loss phase (typically days to weeks). However, there is some suggestion that intermittent energy restriction (IER), which involves alternating periods of energy restriction with periods of greater energy intake (referred to as ‘refeeds’ or ‘diet breaks’) may result in superior weight loss outcomes than CER. This may be due to refeed periods causing transitory restoration of energy balance. Some studies indicate that intermittent periods of energy balance during energy restriction attenuate some of the adaptive responses that resist the continuation of weight and fat loss. While IER—like CER—is known to effectively reduce body fat in non-athletes, evidence for effectiveness of IER in athletic populations is lacking. This review provides theoretical considerations for successful body composition adjustment using IER, with discussion of how the limited existing evidence can be cautiously applied in athlete practice.
Using Pareto Optimization to Support Supply Chain Network Design within Environmental Footprint Impact Assessment
Authors: Kuo Tsai , Lee Yile
Published: January 2019

A product environmental footprint is a multi-criteria measure for environmental sustainability. Most of these environmental criteria are either synergies (non-trade-offs) or compromises (trade-offs) within environmental metrics. This forms a multi-objective problem of supply chain network design. The product environmental footprint is an aid or tool that enterprises may use to measure and improve the life cycle environmental performance of their products. In this research, a multi-criteria method, Pareto optimization, is used to design a supply chain network based on the results of a product environmental footprint. In Pareto optimization, two objectives are formulated: Environmental impact and cost. Using the results of this research, designers will be able to choose a material with a lower environmental impact and supply chain managers will be able to select suppliers with lower environmental impacts. A case study of industry practice is also analyzed. It shows an environmental footprint is useful for the supply chain design network.
Wild Plants Potentially Used in Human Food in the Protected Area "Sierra Grande de Hornachos" of Extremadura (Spain)
Authors: Blanco-Salas José , Gutiérrez-García Lorena , Labrador-Moreno Juana , Ruiz-Téllez Trinidad
Published: January 2019

Natura 2000 is a network of protected spaces where the use of natural resources is regulated through the Habitat Directive of the European Union. It is essential for the conservation of biodiversity in Europe, but its social perception must be improved. We present this work as a demonstration case of the potentialities of one of these protected areas in the southwest (SW) Iberian Peninsula. We show an overview of the catalog of native wild plants of the place, which have nutritional and edible properties, having been used in human food by the peasant local population over the last century, and whose consumption trend is being implemented in Europe mainly through the haute cuisine and ecotourism sectors. What is offered here is a study of the case of what kind of positive contribution systematized botanical or ethnobotanical scientific knowledge can make toward encouraging innovative and sustainable rural development initiatives. A total of 145 wild plants that are potentially useful for leading tourism and consumers toward haute cuisine, new gastronomy, enviromentally-friendly recipes, and Natura 2000 Conservation are retrieved. The methodology used for our proposal is based on recent proposals of food product development and Basque Culinary Center initiatives.
A Study into Public Awareness of the Environmental Impact of Menstrual Products and Product Choice
Authors: Peberdy Elizabeth , Jones Aled , Green Dannielle
Published: January 2019

This paper explores the level of awareness people have about the environmental impact of menstrual products. Currently the most popular types of product are also the most detrimental to the natural environment, particularly due to the amount of hidden plastic in disposable items. This research seeks to find out whether people realize that this is the case and whether those that are more aware of the damage are likely to make choices that are less harmful to the environment. A mixed method approach was taken, using online surveys and focus groups. The results of the study show that most participants were not aware at the amount of plastic in disposable menstrual products, and that there are other issues linked to their environmental impact that people are generally not aware of. Some participants were more aware of the issues than others and the research suggests that those with a higher awareness are more likely to choose products that are less harmful to the environment. Based on these findings, future actions and areas of further research are suggested.
Implementation of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles in Cities Could Have Neutral Effects on the Total Travel Time Costs: Modeling and Analysis for a Circular City
Authors: Medina-Tapia Marcos , Robusté Francesc
Published: January 2019

Autonomous vehicles promise to revolutionize the automobile market, although their implementation could take several decades in which both types of cars will coexist on the streets. We formulate a model for a circular city based on continuous approximations, considering demand surfaces over the city. Numerical results from our model predict direct and indirect effects of connected and autonomous vehicles. Direct effects will be positive for our cities: (a) less street supply is needed to accommodate the traffic; (b) congestion levels decrease: travel costs may decrease by 30%. Some indirect effects will counterbalance these positive effects: (c) a decrease of 20% in the value of travel time can reduce the total cost by a third; (d) induced demand could be as high as 50%, bringing equivalent total costs in the future scenario; (e) the vehicle-kilometers traveled could also affect the future scenario; and (f) increases in city size and urban sprawl. As a conclusion, the implementation of autonomous vehicles could be neutral for the cities regarding travel time costs. City planning agencies still have to promote complementary modes such as active mobility (walking and bicycle), transit (public transportation), and shared mobility (shared autonomous vehicles and mobility as a service).
Perspectives on Assistive Systems for Manual Assembly Tasks in Industry
Authors: Wolfartsberger Josef , Hallewell Haslwanter Jean D. , Lindorfer René
Published: January 2019

Small lot sizes in modern manufacturing present new challenges for people doing manual assembly tasks. Assistive systems, including context-aware instruction systems and collaborative robots, can support people to manage the increased flexibility, while also reducing the number of errors. Although there has been much research in this area, these solutions are not yet widespread in companies. This paper aims to give a better understanding of the strengths and limitations of the different technologies with respect to their practical implementation in companies, both to give insight into which technologies can be used in practice and to suggest directions for future research. The paper gives an overview of the state of the art and then describes new technological solutions designed for companies to illustrate the current status and future needs. The information provided demonstrates that, although a lot of technologies are currently being investigated and discussed, many of them are not yet at a level that they can be implemented in practice.
Nosocomial Pathogens: An In-Depth Analysis of the Vectorial Potential of Cockroaches
Authors: Donkor Eric S.
Published: January 2019

Nosocomial or healthcare-associated infections are regarded as the most frequent adverse event that threatens patients’ safety and has serious economic and social consequences. Cockroach infestation is common in many hospitals, especially in the developing world. Common nosocomial pathogens isolated from cockroaches include Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Cockroaches also harbor epidemiologically significant antibiotic-resistant organisms, such as carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, which complicate nosocomial infections. Therefore, cockroaches constitute an important vector for nosocomial pathogens, and there should be zero tolerance for their presence in healthcare facilities. This paper aims to elucidate the possible role of cockroaches in nosocomial infections by reviewing the relevant research publications.
Inflation from Supersymmetry Breaking
Authors: Antoniadis Ignatios
Published: January 2019

I discuss the possibility that inflation is driven by supersymmetry breaking, with the superpartner of the goldstino (sgoldstino) playing the role of the inflaton. Imposing an R-symmetry to satisfy the slow-roll conditions, avoiding the so-called η -problem, leads to an interesting class of small field inflation models, characterised by an inflationary plateau around the maximum of scalar potential near the origin, where R-symmetry is restored with the inflaton rolling down to a minimum, describing the present phase of the Universe. Inflation can be driven by either an F- or a D-term, while the minimum has a positive tuneable vacuum energy. The models agree with cosmological observations and, in the simplest case, predict a rather small tensor-to-scalar ratio of primordial perturbations. This talk is an extended version of an earlier review (Antoniadis, 2018).
Muon Radiography of Ancient Mines: The San Silvestro Archaeo-Mining Park (Campiglia Marittima, Tuscany)
Authors: Baccani Guglielmo , Bonechi Lorenzo , Bongi Massimo , Brocchini Debora , Casagli Nicola , Ciaranfi Roberto , Cimmino Luigi , Ciulli Vitaliano , D’Alessandro Raffaello , Del Ventisette Chiara , Dini Andrea , Gigli Giovanni , Gonzi Sandro , Guideri Silvia , Lombardi Luca , Melon Barbara , Mori Nicola , Nocentini Massimiliano , Noli Pasquale , Saracino Giulio , Viliani Lorenzo
Published: January 2019

Muon absorption radiography is an imaging technique based on the measurement of the absorption of cosmic ray muons. This technique has recently been used successfully to investigate the presence of unknown cavities in the Bourbon Gallery in Naples and in the Chephren Pyramid at Cairo. The MIMA detector (Muon Imaging for Mining and Archaeology) is a prototype muon tracker for muon radiography for application in the fields of archaelogy and mining. It is made of three pairs of X-Y planes each consisting of 21 scintillator bars with a silicon photomultiplier readout. The detector is compact, robust, easily transportable, and has a low power consumption: all of which makes the detector ideal for measurements in confined and isolated environments. With this detector, a measurement from inside the Temperino mine in the San Silvestro archaeo-mining park in Tuscany was performed. The park includes about 25 km of mining tunnels arranged on several levels that have been exploited from the Etruscan time. The measured muon absorption was compared to the simulated one, obtained from the information provided by 3D laser scanner measurements and cartographic maps of the mountain above the mine, in order to obtain information about the average density of the rock. This allowed one to confirm the presence of a partially accessible exploitation opening and provided some hints regarding the presence of a high-density body within the rock.
Integration of GIS and a Lagrangian Particle-Tracking Model for Harmful Algal Bloom Trajectories Prediction
Authors: Qin Rufu , Lin Liangzhao
Published: January 2019

Harmful algal bloom (HAB) is a major environmental problem in coastal waters around the world. The technologies and approaches for short-term forecasting of the HABs trajectories have obtained increasing attention from researchers. In this paper, we present a straightforward physical-based model based on a non-Fickian Lagrangian particle-tracking scheme for understanding the movement of detected HABs. The model adopts the fractional Brownian motion (fBm) technology, and is coupled with the Delft3D and WRF models and GIS. The fBm based Lagrangian particle-tracking model can flexibly control the scale of the particle clouds diffusion through Hurst value, which can be used to account for uncertainties and adjust for better representing the trajectories of HABs. Simulation results demonstrate that the presented model can successfully predict the trends and the main features of red tide drifting. The developed simulation tool enables users to create the model configuration, manage data inputs, run the model, and generate model maps and animations within a GIS environment. It is believed that the model and the tool outlined herein can be very useful for rapidly evaluating potential areas at risk from the HABs events.
Risk Identification and Analysis for PPP Projects of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Based on 2-Tuple and the DEMATEL Model
Authors: Zhang Lihui , Zhao Zhenli , Chai Jianxue , Kan Zhinan
Published: January 2019

Risk management is critical to the success of electric vehicle charging infrastructure public–private partnership (EVCI-PPP) projects, as risks are present throughout the whole life cycle of projects. However, in EVCI-PPP projects, risk factors are often interdependent and, consequently, the interrelationships among factors affect the risk management, which is ignored in the existing studies. To identify the risk factors of EVCI-PPP projects and analyze their internal influence relations, this paper develops a risk identification and analysis model of EVCI-PPP projects based on the 2-tuple linguistic representation model and the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) model. First, a risk factor set is established including 22 criteria involved in 5 dimensions of political/legal risk, economic/market risk, social/environment risk, project/technical risk, and managing risk. Next, the 2-tuple model is introduced to integrate the decision makers’ evaluation information in a linguistic environment, and the direct relation matrix is calculated. Then, the cause–effect relations and a significant degree of risk factors are interpreted using the extended DEMATEL technique. The results show that economic/market risk is the most significant factor of EVCI-PPP projects, and 22 criteria are classified into 14 cause factors and 8 effect factors. Finally, suggestions are provided for decision-makers to ensure the success of EVCI-PPP projects.
ON THE ADAPTABILITY OF CONCRETE‐FILLED STEEL TUBULAR COLUMNS IN THE LIGHT OF THE POST‐FIRE TESTING RESULTS
Authors: Blaževičius Žygimantas
Published: January 2019

The objective of this work is assessment of the applicability of the concrete‐filled steel tubular columns for their further maintenance after exposing to fire. The properties of steel and concrete after heating are briefly described, as well as the attributes of the structures indicating temperature reached during the fire. An experimental research on the HC‐FST (hollow concrete‐filled steel tubular) column behaviour under post‐fire conditions was performed. Behaviour of 16 axially loaded HC‐FST columns has been experimentally investigated and the results presented in this paper. The experimental values of the post‐fire resistance were measured and failure mode was determined for 4 axially loaded columns. For the comparison of test parameters, 4 axially loaded HC‐FST columns were tested under normal conditions. In addition, 8 hollow concrete‐filled steel tubular stub columns and 4 hollow concrete tubular stub columns under normal conditions were tested. One of the research objectives was preparing the experimental data for analysis and developing some analytical dependences between different test parameters influencing most significantly the post‐fire resistance of HC‐FST columns.
STRESS-STRAIN RESPONSE OF REINFORCED CONCRETE MEMBER SUBJECTED TO AXIAL TENSION
Authors: Girdžius Rokas , Kaklauskas Gintaris , Zamblauskaitė Renata
Published: January 2019

This paper discusses the load and deflection relationship of reinforced concrete members subjected to axial tension. A new tension stiffening relationship depending on tensile strength of concrete, reinforcement ratio, and the ratio of modulus of elesticity of steel and concrete has been proposed. The results obtained were compared with the numerical test data and the formulas proposed by other authors.
POSSIBILITIES OF CLIENTS AND CONTRACTOR'S DISPUTES SETTLEMENT AT THE PRETRIAL STAGE
Authors: Keršuliene Violeta
Published: January 2019

The article analyses, by using economic methods, the probable behaviour of construction process parties during a dispute settlement. With the use of optimism (or differing perceptions) and asymmetric information models an attempt is made to determine the most economically advantageous behavioural pattern for both parties at the pretrial stage and analyses social value of a litigation dispute.
STRUT-FRAMED BEAM STRUCTURE FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF PEDESTRIAN BRIDGES
Authors: Juozapaitis Algirdas , Šaučiuven Gintas , Nagevičius Juozas
Published: January 2019

A new strut‐framed beam steel structure is considered. This type structure is employed in reconstruction of pedestrian bridges. The proposed constructional design model allows replacing the two‐span beam bridge by one span strut‐framed beam. In this case the members of already existing carrying structure are employed and the service of the actual structure is not interrupted. A response of new structure to symmetric and asymmetric loadings is analysed. The analytical relations for distribution of internal forces are presented. The choice of parameters of strut‐framed beam is investigated. An efficiency of suggested structural design model is illustrated via the performed numerical simulation of strut‐framed beam.
MODERN ACCOUNTING METHOD IN INSURANCE TARIFFS ‐ NOVELTY ON THE INSURANCE MARKET
Authors: Girdzijauskas Stasys , Čepinskis Jonas , Jurkonytė Edita
Published: January 2019

The insurance calculation could be based on the logistic limit model of the population evolution. The investigation has shown that a newly invented logistic theory could be applied to the calculation of interest or the estimation of investment projects, as well as to discount of value expressions, determination of the present monetary values, and management of money currents, that means it could be adapted to calculation of insurance annuities either. There are concrete examples in the article which state that a new principle calculation system is possible based on the logistic discount. Although calculations are more complicated and completely possible only using information technologies, yet the results achieved on the basis of the logistic theory are more accurate and more reliable. To say more, the application of the logistic theory offers qualitatively new results. The main target of this article is to present modern method of calculating annuity insurance tariffs and to compare usual and logistic methods of calculating annuities insurance tariffs.

The tasks of the article are: a) to discuss about insurance on living to a certain age peculiarity and b) to analyse and to compare usual and logistic annuities insurance tariffs accounting.
RELEVANT CODES AND REGULATIONS: EFFECTS ON THE DESIGN OF INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION
Authors: Abdallah Ahmed
Published: January 2019

This paper presents the possible effects and restrictions that may arise in the field of industrial construction due to compliance with relevant construction codes and regulations, as well as the ways they can be favourably handled in the design of industrial buildings. Designs should be based primarily on human design factors, while considering the human as the centre of the work environment. Design parameters should be described as a function of both the physical and psychosocial attributes of a person as well as the technical and economical aspects in the design of industrial construction. This paper is an examination of the connection that exists between design law (codes and regulations) and industrial construction. The relevant construction laws and regulations are described, including standards and codes of practice that designing and supervising engineers are obliged to observe. Possible solutions and consequences of development in the production, constructional, and ergonomic field of design are also discussed.
METHODS FOR MULTIVARIANT ANALYSIS OF OPTIONAL MODULES USED IN TEACHING PROCESS
Authors: Kaklauskas Artūras , Gulbinas Andrius , Krutinis Mindaugas , Naimavičienė Jurga , Šatkauskas Gintautas
Published: January 2019

A lot of decision making methods used in various human activity spheres are currently developed in the world. Different countries scientists in their works did not analyze such research object as the author: tutoring process, participating stakeholders (student, lector, institution, employee) and tutoring external environment (economical, social, demographical, legal, technological, and cultural, etc.), as a whole. In this article optional subjects (modules) multiply criterion proportional evaluation and multiply criterion alternative projecting methods applicable for tutoring process are reviewed.
PROPERTIES OF LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE MADE WITH CRUSHED NATURAL POZZOLANA AS COARSE AGGREGATE
Authors: Mouli Mohamed , Khelafi Hamid
Published: January 2019

This paper describes a laboratory‐based study examinig the use of natural pozzolana as an aggregate component in lightweight concrete (LWC). A range of conditioning variables, including cement and moisture content, storage period up to one year, was investigated.

In order to explore these effects, a series of five concrete mixes using the same Portland cement was prepared. Three mixes (LWC1, LWC2, LWC3) were designed with cement content of 400 kg/m3 and three different W/C ratios leading to three different workability expressed with of a measured slumps of (3±1, 5±1 and 7±1) cm. Further two mixes (LWC4, LWC5) were also made with cement dosage of 300 and 350 kg/m3 and a constant workability with a slump of 3±1cm.

The investigated properties included density, compressive strength, tensile strength and elastic modulus. The results were obtained for ages up to 365 days under different curing conditions (wet and dry).

It is concluded that LWC with pozzolana, as coarse aggregate, has sufficient strength and adequate density to be accepted as structural lightweight concrete.
ANALYSIS OF THE FACTORS OF EXPORT DEVELOPMENT OF LITHUANIA
Authors: Jakutis Algirdas , Liukaitis Romualdas , Samulevičius Jurgis
Published: January 2019

This paper analyses and discusses Lithuanian export of goods and services, its strategic development and stimulation. This article shows economical principles of development, discusses general characterising commerce parameters of some world states as well as the export structure, evaluates measures for the correlation analysis of Lithuanian export factors and appoints efficiency and its development. On the basis of recent experience and today's situation, proposals are made for a sustainable development of export.
MECHANICAL SIMULATION OF REINFORCED CONCRETE SLABS SUBJECTED TO FIRE
Authors: Bačinskas Darius , Kaklauskas Gintaris , Gribniak Viktor , Geda Edgaras
Published: January 2019

There are many buildings and civil engineering works under construction which are at risk of fire. The fire resistance analysis of reinforced concrete structures constitutes an important part in their design. However, the analysis of the behaviour of load‐bearing members under high temperature conditions is very complicated. Various factors that influence the behaviour of the members need to be taken into account. Analytical and computation methods have been developed in the field of reinforced concrete building exposed to high temperature or accidental fire. Unfortunately, such models are computationally too demanding and their application are limited even for a simply supported reinforced concrete members (beams, plates etc). In this paper, an attempt has been made to extend application of the Flexural model to stress and strain analysis of flexural reinforced concrete members subjected to high temperature. Constitutive models and key material parameters describing thermo‐mechanical behaviour of concrete and reinforcement are discussed. A powerful calculation technique based on layered approach is briefly described. A numerical example of application of present method for calculating of stresses, strains and curvatures of reinforced concrete slab is presented.
THE SYSTEM FOR SIMULATING INTERBANK SETTLEMENTS
Authors: Bakšys Donatas , Sakalauskas Leonidas
Published: January 2019

The aim of this paper is a study of the system for simulating interbank settlements. Interbank payment and settlement systems establish conditions for the circulation of financial funds on the market and guarantee the distribution of assets. Practical experiments in an active system are very risky. They demand to simulate their operation through a system by creating its mathematical model. By perfecting the processing of settlements and/or developing algorithms for solving the gridlocks or by applying the tools of refinancing and using reserves of requirements, one can change the efficiency of settlement systems. The results of the study by Monte‐Carlo simulation are given, based on data of the payment and settlement system of the Bank of Lithuania.
THEORETICAL ASPECTS OF LOGISTICS TRAINING PROCESS MANAGEMENT
Authors: Palšaitis Ramūnas , Bazaras Darius
Published: January 2019

Authors discuss about main training needs and problems in the logistics as main driving motive for learning and training process organization in the universities and at the non‐formal training places ‐ work places, courses and training organizations. All driving motives can be named as internal and external forces which influence persons. In many cases external driving motives are related to person's “positive pushing” direction, for example, integration and globalization process in business or implementation of the new technologies. The internal driving motives sometimes are related to problematical points of training, i. e. negative self‐estimation, negative view of environment and bad understanding of knowledge's benefits in the person's practical life. The main problems and perspectives of logistics training process are named in this article. Main reasons for training process, methodology and training costs are described.
DETERMINATION OF OPTIMAL WORK START TIME
Authors: Li Shu-Guang
Published: January 2019

The question is: whether the system total travel cost and travel time are reduced by adjusting the work start time or not? This paper proposes the two‐level model for answering the question; the upper‐level minimizes the system travel cost and travel time by using the work start time as a decision variable, the lower‐level models the stochastic dynamic simultaneous route/departure time equilibrium problem. Finally, numerical results of a small network are provided to illustrate the behavior of the model.
MOBILE SOLUTIONS IN ROAD TRANSPORT
Authors: Batarlienė Nijolė , Baublys Adolfas
Published: January 2019

The article dwells on the aspects of mobile solutions of public information and transport. The work presents major decision making principles based on object positioning and a system of positioning‐based GSM solutions. The newly developed remote identification systems for transport facilities and goods and passenger transport and their schematic view are presented. The main units of the remote identification system of vehicles and goods embrace: TI portal, TVIM portal, content control system (SMS, GPRS), mobile phone, the unit for stating the geographical position of vehicles and goods. Portals are designed so that the data provided by various systems of observation, such as GSM, GPS, WLAN, wireless internet, etc., can be used there. Portals (TI and TVIM) can also be used for testing, complex evaluation of monitoring functions as well as for providing the data on geographical location of objects, transmitting data to mobile telephones, etc. Purposes and functions of the portals are presented. The article describes the facility of implementing the mobile user concept, changes made in the portal pages to support the mobile users.
Automatic Evaluation of Spatial Disorientation
Authors: Frantis P. , Petru A.
Published: January 2019

The paper discusses the automated detection of spatial disorientation from recorded flight data. The first part of the paper briefly introduces middle ear function and its influence on spatial disorientation. The specially developed simulator and aerodrome manoeuvre flown by the pilot during the experiment is also mentioned. The second part of the paper analyses the recorded data from experimental flights and proposes an algorithm for the automatic evaluation of spatial disorientation. An example graphical interpretation of the recorded data is provided with a clear explanation of the important parameters. At the end of the paper, the most important conclusions of the work are presented.
Dynamic Lift and Vortex Breakdown during an Unsteady Flow over a Pitching Airfoil
Authors: Svoboda A. , Rozehnal D.
Published: January 2019

Computational fluid dynamics techniques are used to give a detailed insight into unsteady phenomena taking place in the vicinity of a pitching airfoil. The vortex formation and breakdown are analyzed using the time history of pressure distribution, vorticity and injected massless particle trajectories. Different cases of flows are modeled to determine the effect of reduced frequency on unsteady lift. Finally, a comparison of lift coefficients for steady and unsteady cases is provided.
State of the Art and Problems of Defeat of Low, Slow and Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Dudush A. , Tyutyunnik V. , Trofymov I. , Bortnovs'kiy S. , Bondarenko S.
Published: January 2019

The article deals with one of the most intensively developing threats for civilian and military spheres - hostile use of Low, Slow and Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (LSS UAVs). The classification of the LSS UAVs is given. The existing threats of using LSS UAVs are divided into three categories. Special attention is paid to the third category of threats, the main feature of which is a high level of training of the operator. Main advantages and drawbacks of LSS UAVs are considered. It is determined that the best strategy is to employ a hierarchy of countermeasures including regulatory countermeasures (prevention, deterrence, denial), passive countermeasures (detection and interruption) and active countermeasures (destruction). State of the art and current problems of possible countermeasures are analysed. The most promising LSS UAVs’ counteraction technologies are described. Most attention is paid to specialized sensors and modern active counteraction means, such as programmable air burst munition and high-energy laser systems.
Statistics of Ejections in Military Jet Aircraft in Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic
Authors: Zavila O.
Published: January 2019

The article deals with the statistics of aviation accidents associated with the ejection of the crew in military jet fighter, fighter-trainer and trainer aircraft in the service of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic from 1948 until the end of 2016. It presents a unique, previously unpublished comprehensive overview of aviation accidents (disasters, air crashes and damage) in which the crew ejected, as well as a critical analysis of types of events involved, date of their origin, type and version of the aircraft and also the number of killed and rescued crew members. The figures are accompanied by numerous annotations and an overview of still accessible reference and information sources on the subject.
Camelina neglecta (Brassicaceae, Camelineae), a new diploid species from Europe
Authors: Brock Jordan R. , Mandáková Terezie , Lysak Martin A. , Al-Shehbaz Ihsan A.
Published: January 2019

Camelinaneglecta is described as a new diploid species and its relationship to the other diploids of the genus and to the somewhat superficially similar tetraploid C.rumelica and hexaploid C.microcarpa, are discussed. SEM of seed and stem trichomes of the new species are presented.
Serum adropin levels in psoriasis vulgaris and its relation with metabolic parameters
Authors: KORKMAZ SELMA , SAYILAN ÖZGÜN GÜLBEN
Published: January 2019

Background/aim: Adropin is a peptide-structure hormone that plays a role in preventing the development of insulin resistance, which has been linked to obesity and metabolic regulation.
The purpose of this study is to assess serum adropin levels and their relationship with metabolic parameters in psoriasis vulgaris patients both with and without metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods: Fifty-three patients and twenty-six healthy controls were included in this study. Serum adropin levels, fasting blood glucose, fasting plasma insulin, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels of all participants were analyzed. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure serum adropin levels.

Results: Serum adropin levels in psoriatic patients without MetS were 2.94±0.56 ng/ml, in psoriasis patients with MetS were 2.49±0.77 ng/ml and were 3.37±0.71 ng/ml in control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate adropin decreases in psoriasis patients as an independent predictor in terms of the presence of MetS.

Conclusion: The serum levels of adropin in psoriasis patients were significantly lower in the presence of MetS, and this decrease was more prominent than in those without MetS. Adropin may be a responsible factor for metabolic disorders and the development of MetS in psoriasis patients.
Key words: Psoriasis, metabolic syndrome, adropin
The Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio and its Relationship with Insulin Resistance in Obesity
Authors: KARAKAYA SERDAR , ALTAY MUSTAFA , KAPLAN EFE FATMA , KARADAĞ İBRAHİM , ÜNSAL OKTAY , BULUR OKTAY , ESER MURAT , TANER ERTUĞRUL DERUN
Published: January 2019

Background and aim: In this study, we aimed to investigate the neutrophil/lymphocyte (N/L) ratio, variations in leukocytes and leukocyte subtypes, and the relationship between N/L ratio and insulin resistance (IR) in obesity.
Materials and Methods: Ninety six patients and 40 healthy controls were included in this study. Patients’ blood glucose levels, insulin levels, and hemogram parameters upon 8 hours of fasting were determined. Body mass index (BMI) and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values were calculated.
Results: Neutrophil numbers were found to be higher among IR obese patients than among non-IR obese patients. The N/L ratio was, moreover, found to be higher among IR obese patients, when compared to non IR obese. A positive correlation was found between insulin resistance and both neutrophil and WBC counts. Another positive correlation was also found between insulin levels and the N/L ratio, WBC, and neutrophil counts.
Discussion: In our study, leukocyte numbers and subtypes were determined to be higher among obese individuals than among healthy individuals. The N/L ratio had increased significantly only among obese patients who have insulin resistance. Further studies are needed in order to better demonstrate the relationship between the N/L ratio and insulin resistance/inflammation.
Key Words: Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio, Obesity, Insulin Resistance
Percutaneous plasma laser disc coagulation and navigable ablation decompression in the treatment of cervical disc herniation: A single center experience.
Authors: CEYLAN AYŞEGÜL , AŞIK İBRAHİM
Published: January 2019

Backgraund and aim: We aimed to compare the effectivity of PDCT (Percutaneous Disc Coagulation Therapy) and L-DISQ (navigable ablation decompression treatment) in patients who were diagnosed with cervical disc herniation.
Methods: Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Neck Pain Index (NPI) were recorded initially and at the 1st, 3rd, 6th and 12th months after the procedures. Patient Satisfaction Scale (PSS) were recorded 12th months after the procedures.
Results: Mean VAS scores were 7.55 and 3.1 points in PDCT group and 7.6 and 3.00 points in L-DISQ group mean NPI scores were 34.2 and 20.75 points in PDCT group and 34.1 and 20.4 points in L-DISQ group initially and at the 12th month. When compared between months, there was a significant decrease in time-dependent VAS and NPI scores in both PDCT and L-DISQ groups (p=0.001). Some complications include esophageal, vascular and neural injuries, hoarseness, Horner syndrome, infections, dural puncture and muscle spasm. The only difference between groups was the rate of cervical spasm within one month after the procedure; 75% in PDCT group and 15% in L-DISQ group.
Conclusion: The diameter of the canal of cervical vertebrae is narrower than of the lumbar and thoracic regions, therefore the smaller part of disc may be sufficient to create clinical signs. The respond to decompression therapies are faster in case cervical percutaneous procedures are performed correctly. Proper patient selection and practitioner’s experience are important in treatment success.
Key Words: Navigable ablation, intradiscal decompression, PDCT, cervical herniation
Branch retinal vein occlusion associated with platelet activation
Authors: BEYAZYILDIZ EMRULLAH , ÇITIRIK MEHMET , ŞİMŞEK MERT , BEYAZYILDIZ ÖZLEM , HAZNEDAROĞLU İBRAHİM CELALETTİN
Published: January 2019

Background/Aim: The aim of this study is to search subclinical platelet activation via detecting three important platelet activation parameters; Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), Platelet Distribution Width (PDW), and Plateletcrit (PCT) in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in comparison to those in the healthy control subjects.
Material and Methods: This prospective study had included 43 patients with BRVO (Group 1) and 40 control subjects (Group 2). The levels of MPV, PDW, and PCT were measured in the all of the studied groups.
Results: The mean serum level of MPV value 7.64 ± 0.64 in group 1 and 7.39 ± 0.42 in group 2. Mean serum level of PDW was 15.01 ± 1.56 in group 1 and 14.43 ± 1.03 in group 2. Mean serum PCT value was 0.19 ± 0.05 in group 1 and 0.16 ± 0.04 in group 2. MPV, PDW, and PCT levels were significantly increased in BRVO patients (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: Subclinical platelet activation reflected by MPV, PDW, and PCT may have an impact on the genesis of vessel occlusion in BRVO. The results may be important for the clinical management of patients with BRVO.
Key Words: Branch retinal vein occlusion, mean platelet volume, plateletcrit, platelet distribution width, platelet parameters, retina.
Role of iliac crest tangent in correct numbering of lumbosacral transitional vertebrae
Authors: GÜNDÜZ NESRİN , DURUKAN GÜLÇİN , ESER MEHMET BİŞLGİN , ASLAN AHMET , KABAALİOĞLU ADNAN
Published: January 2019

Background and aim: Iliac crest tangent (ICT) has recently emerged as a reliable landmark to correctly number the lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV). We retrospectively evaluated the reproducibility and accuracy of ICT as a landmark in subjects without disc degeneration.
Materials and methods: Fifty-eight patients with LSTV [19 female, 41 (26-52) years] and 55 controls without LSTV [23 female, 40 (26-55) years] who had undergone spinal computed tomography were included. The ICT was drawn on the coronal images, with the cursor in the sagittal view set to the posterior one third of the vertebral body located one level above the LSTV. When more than 1.25 vertebral body was counted below the ICT, the LSTV was considered as S1, otherwise as L5. The gold standard was counting the vertebrae craniocaudally.
Results: The inter-observer agreement was good for determining ICT level (Cohen’s kappa=0.78, p<0.001). The rate of correct numbering by ICT in LSTV group was significantly lesser than controls (43.1% vs 96.4%, respectively, p<0.001). Patients with sacralization had significantly less correct numbering rate than lumbarization (33.3% vs 63.2%, respectively, p=0.03).
Conclusion: ICT does not seem to be a reliable landmark for correct numbering of LSTV in patients with no intervertebral disc degeneration.
Key words: computed tomography, iliac crest tangent, lumbosacral transitional vertebra
Possible prediction of patterns of cervical lymph node spread based on primary tumor location in papillary thyroid carcinomas
Authors: SANCAKTAR MEHMET ESER , SAYLAM GÜLESER , ÖCAL BÜLENT , ULUAT AHMET , BAYIR ÖMER , ÇAKAL ERMAN , KORKMAZ MEHMET HAKAN
Published: January 2019

Backround/aim: Papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) frequently metastasize to regional lymph nodes. We purposed to investigate the predictive role of tumor location for lymph node metastasis pattern in PTCs.
Materials and methods: Medical records of 110 PTC patients were reviewed retrospectively. Tumor location was determined as upper, middle and lower pole according to ultrasonography (USG) findings. The effects of age, gender, tumor size and location on lymph node metastasis were investigated.
Results: The series comprised 87% females (n:96), and 13% males (n:14). 43 patients had central neck metastasis (CNM), 14 had lateral neck metastasis (LNM). Upper pole tumors (UPT) metastasized to the central neck (CN) at a lower rate (17.6%) than middle (40.0%) or lower (48.5%) poles overall (p:0.104), while it was at a significantly lower rate (13.3%) in the PTC group (p<0.05). UPTs (n:17) metastasized to the lateral neck (LN) at almost 2-fold more. It was observed that 3 of 4 UPTs spread directly to the LN without CNM.
Conclusion: In our opinion, UPTs have propensity to demonstrate metastase to LN rather than the CN in PTCs. Therefore, UPTs should be evaluated meticulously in terms of LNM. New studies could suggest that CN dissection is not performed for low risk PTCs in UPTs.
Key words: Papillary thyroid cancer, lymph node metastase, tumor location
Evaluation of myocardial dispersion of repolarization in patients with heart transplantation
Authors: BURAK CENGİZ , BAYSAL ERKAN , SÜLEYMANOĞLU MUHAMMED , YAYLA ÇAĞRI , ÇAY SERKAN , KERVAN ÜMİT
Published: January 2019

Background/aim: The number of patients with heart transplantation has dramatically increased in the last decade. Considerable studies have suggested that the interval from the peak to the end of the electrocardiographic T wave (Tp-e) may correspond to the transmural dispersion of repolarization and increased Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio are associated with malignant ventricular arrhythmias. We analyzed the dispersion of myocardial repolarization using electrocardiographic Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QTc ratio in patients with heart transplantation. 
Materials and methods: This observational study included 38 patients (12 female and 26 male) with heart transplantation and 38 well-matched controls. From electrocardiograms, Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QTc ratio were calculated and compared between the 2 groups.
Results: Noninvasive arrhythmia indicators including Tp-e interval (84.63 ± 14.17 ms vs 71.82 ± 7.47 ms, p < 0.001), Tp-e/QTc ratio (0.19 ± 0.04 vs 0.16 ± 0.02 p < 0.001) and QTc interval except QT interval were significantly higher in transplanted hearts compared to normal hearts.
Conclusion: Patients with heart transplantation have increased myocardial dispersion of repolarization.
Keywords: Tp-e/QTc ratio, heart transplantation, myocardial dispersion of repolarization
Combating Polypharmacy Through Deprescribing Potentially Inappropriate Medications
Authors: Chou Joshua , Tong Monica , Brandt Nicole J.
Published: January 2019

Polypharmacy
, defined as the use of five or more medications, is becoming increasingly prevalent in older adults throughout the United States. Depre-scribing, along with the use of existing tools, such as the American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria, can help guide health care providers in reducing the risks associated with polypharmacy such as side effects and drug interactions. The framework of deprescribing and the use of existing guidelines and resources are valuable in guiding health care providers in addressing polypharmacy. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 45
(1), 9–15.]