bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Settlement Compactness as a Quality Characteristic of Land Use
Authors: Smilka Vladyslav
Published: May 2020

The aim of the research is to propose the method for forming an indicator of compactness of a populated population and to test it. The comparative analysis, structuring, geospatial modelling methods have been used in the research. Land use management and development regulation, which is carried out by urban planning documentation, is the spatial frame for sustainable territory development. Forming of quantitative and qualitative indicator system that characterises the level of urban development of a settlement is an overriding issue for state estimation of settlement development. Management decisions on land use management should be made taking into account the evaluation results. The compact form is an essential basis for the efficient and stable use of the settlement territorial resources. There is no single evaluation technique of settlement compactness; there are a variety of approaches and methods for the assessment of settlement form. The compactness level in this study is estimated by a system of indicators that attests to the multiplicity of land uses and the degree of accessibility to basic services and leisure facilities. The determining technique of component compactness has been tested in evaluating the planning structure of Kyiv. All planning quarters are rated according to a five-level rating scale. For each classification group, general recommendations have been developed to improve the land use system aimed at improving the compactness of the settlement. The results of compactness assessment can be used through geoinformation monitoring tools in the provision of administrative services as justification for managerial decision-making.
New Curriculum Development in Operations Management
Authors: Trimble John , Murambiwa Tapiwa , Plessis Francisca Du
Published: May 2020

Operations management is growing in importance as an advanced studies discipline in Business and Management Schools and Departments. The structured masters program has particular appeal to working professionals with a business or engineering background. Structured masters programs in different areas of Management will serve as vital training for a young South African population preparing to engage in the 4th industrial revolution. Communication advances, particularly in information technology, have escalated the use of online and blended approaches to curriculum delivery. This research focuses on the design and implementation plan of a structured operations management program at the Masters level. It draws on an analysis of existing taught Masters programs at Tshwane University of Technology as well as an examination of best practices on an international level. This study also considers how the 4th industrial revolution should be addressed through curriculum content and delivery. Alternatives are presented regarding the best approach, considering time and resource restrictions.
Internal Service Quality at our University - Centralizing vs. Decentralizing
Authors: Krause Regina , Berg Marco , Domröse Hartmut
Published: May 2020

This article looks at interdisciplinary services such as a career service center and start-up counselling for students. Using the example of the Wismar University of Applied Sciences, the question is examined as to whether it makes more sense for the students of the university to bundle these services in a central unit or whether it would be better to allocate them to faculties or departments on a subject- specific basis. The advantages and disadvantages of both solutions are discussed. In the concrete case of the Wismar University of Applied Sciences, it is shown that based on almost a decade of experience with its approach, the centralisation of these interdisciplinary functions has indeed led to synergies. The article also identifies a set of critical success factors which the design of such a solution will need to meet.
Development and Implementation of Master Programme in Smart Transport and Logistics for Cities
Authors: Comi Antonio , Lobashov Oleksii , Olkhova Mariia , Roslavtsev Dmytro , Vakulenko Kateryna
Published: May 2020

The existing Master programs in Ukraine are based on separate branches of transport systems. The general approach used was to isolate and hence to study the single elements and to neglect the relationships between them within the whole analysis systems. Therefore, the developed educational modules, based on smart technology and environment (which exploit these neglected relationships) have not yet presented in the current curricula of Ukrainian Master programmes in transport systems. In this context, the paper presents the upgrading process of Master curriculum, designed and implemented in O.M. Beketov National University within the E+-KA2-CHBE Programme. In particular, how the local conditions and needs as well as the results of the international reviews on which the curricula were built are described. Finally, some indications for process transferability are provided.
Innovative Method for the Transmission of Knowledge in Food Engineering
Authors: Tiţa Ovidiu , Tiţa Mihaela Adriana , Constantinescu Adelina Maria
Published: May 2020

Pedagogical research is a way of explaining the educational phenomenon. Through this, it develops optimal solutions to the problems raised by the instructive-educational process, by following the social exigencies. The experimental activity took place between October 2018 and February 2019 at the University “Lucian Blaga” of Sibiu, within the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Food Industry and Environmental Protection. The main objectives were reducing the percentage of students with weak exam results, developing the intrinsic motivation of students, using of teaching materials in increased efficiency, developing active, realistic, investigative thinking, synthetic and clear expression, encouraging teamwork, using of worksheets and self-evaluation tests.

The subjects included in the research were students from the 3rd year of specialization “Food Products Engineering”. The methods of research used were direct observation, survey method, school document research method and test method. It concluded that students do not like the classical assessment, but prefer the evaluation with the help of working sheets or self-evaluation. They also preferred working methods such as worksheet discovery, conversation, problem-solving, and assaulting ideas.
Training PhD students for teaching of engineering disciplines: Study of Russian Universities Experience
Authors: Lazarou Elisabeth , Vatolkina Natalia , Dascalu Maria , Smirnova Elena
Published: May 2020

The paper contains several findings of the study of the Russian universities’ system related to pedagogical training of PhD students, which has been carried on in the framework of the ERASMUS+ Capacity Building for HE project EXTEND (# 586060-EPP-1-2017-1-RO-EPPKA2- CBHE-JP) - “Excellence in Engineering Education through Teacher Training and New Pedagogic Approaches in Russia and Tajikistan”. The project itself is devoted to the training of new personnel for the engineering universities. The strengths and weaknesses of the Russian system of pedagogical training of young teachers are under discussion in this article.

The Introduction part of the paper describes the Russian system of education, EXTEND project main activities, Project Consortium participants, objective of the analysis of curriculum contents of PhD programs in engineering in Russian universities, including courses and internships on pedagogy, learning outcomes and PhD student’s teaching competences and motivation. The methodology part of the paper draws the four stages of the research. The main part of the paper presents the results of the analysis of the 22 PhD programs collected by Russian universities’ team. The Discussion part consists of four recommendations on how to enhance the Russian teacher preparation.
Value Chain Planning in Cross-Industry Meta-Cluster Initiatives
Authors: Brad Emilia , Brad Stelian
Published: May 2020

Cross-industry meta-cluster initiatives may play a crucial role in speeding up conceptualization and launching of viable innovations. In this context, this paper introduces a methodology for integrated planning of hybrid value chains. Using a roadmap of interrelated planning matrices, appropriate projects, mechanisms and institutional constructions can be formulated and cross-industry meta-cluster initiatives can be built in a structured, systematic and systemic way. Theory is exemplified for planning new generations of innovations at the intersection of ICT and agriculture sectors. The case study shows the potential of the methodology to provide a comprehensive qualitative and quantitative assessment of the current state and to highlight the major challenges for reaching a competitive viability of the emerging innovations within a hybrid innovation eco-system.
A Critical Reflection on Relationship between ICT and Change Management in Enhancing Teaching and Learning Performances
Authors: Som Ratana , Dumitrascu Danut
Published: May 2020

Numerous studies have pointed out direct positive impacts of Information Communication Technology (ICT) on education quality. From just tool, ICT is being viewed in itself as quality or as catalyst for quality improvement. These findings have led universities worldwide to adopt ICT regardless of uncertainties. Consequently, not all of them succeeded. Proofs from cases around the world show that ICT produces positive impact only in the environment that fits. Such environment is fostered by an effective change management approach. The main aim of this paper is therefore to present the symbiotic relationship between ICT and change management, zeroing on how changes are managed to attain a proper ICT ecosystem for education quality improvement. It also aims to understand, through the conducts of extensive bibliographical research, along with critical content analyses, the roles of ICT in education, its design and impacts, and what constitutes effective change management approach for ICT inclusion. Key findings include: that the integration of ICT alone does not necessarily produce direct positive impact on teaching and learning, but its design; that a good design requires a proper change management process, driven by ICT, and that the involvement of all stakeholders, particularly functional managers, is critical to attain better performances.
University Students’ Readiness for Social Activity in Climate Actions
Authors: Harmoinen Sari , Koivu Katri , Pääsky Leena
Published: May 2020

In this study, the authors analyze how students from the University of Oulu (N=1585) reflect on their possibilities to affect climate matters through social activity. The data was collected with an online survey in the autumn of 2019 and was analyzed with quantitative and qualitative methods. Readiness for climate actions in social activity was moderately low and lower than in other climate actions considered in the survey. The following categories were identified to explain readiness for social activity: Emotional Expressions, Trustworthy Information, Individual Freedom, Societal Responsibility, and Us Against the World-mindset. Some of the possibilities for climate actions suggested by students include developing and exporting Finnish innovations and expertise, leading by example, receiving and distributing reliable information, making decisions and regulations on a societal level, providing economical support for environmental organizations, and affecting personal actions.
Sustainable Use of Ecological Concepts in Educational Science
Authors: Svenkerud Sigrun Wessel , Madsen Janne , Ballangrud Brit Bolken , Strande Anne-Lise , Stenshorne Elisabeth
Published: May 2020

In this article, the authors discuss the use of ecological concepts (ecology, boundary, niche) in educational research to understand if and how these concepts from one field of science (ecology) can bring a new understanding to another field of science (education). We have conducted a systematic search in the ERIC database to identify articles where key concepts from ecology, such as ecosystem, boundaries and niche, are used in educational research. An algorithm inspired by Rodger’s (2000) contextual model of concept analysis was used to examine how the concepts contribute to explore, explain or understand an educational system or an educational process. We find that the use of ecology-oriented concepts is related to a circular rather than a linear causality between actors and environment and between thoughts and actions. Thus, an ecological educational approach is characterised by wholeness, and emphasizes context as well as the complex interconnected mechanisms in educational processes.
Co-Treatment of Municipal Landfill Leachate with Dairy Wastewater in Membrane Bioreactor
Authors: Marszałek Anna , Bohdziewicz Jolanta , Puszczało Ewa
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of leachates from municipal landfill co-treatment with the dairy wastewater in an aerobic membrane bioreactor. It was working in MSBR (sequential membrane bioreactor) systems twice daily and was equipped with the immersed membrane module installed inside what enabled its back-washing performance. The system was working. The concentration of activated sludge in the membrane bioreactor was equal to 4.0 g/dm3. However, the sludge load was at the level of 0.06 g COD/(g d.m. · d). The oxygen concentration was at the level of 3.0 g O2/m3. The share of leachate was varied in a range of 5 to 15 % vol. The evaluation of the effectiveness of the treatment process was based on the change of parameters characterizing the crude sewage and treated sewage. All analysis was carried out according to standards. Following parameters were determined: COD, BOD5, TOC and concentrations of phosphate phosphorus, total nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen. Chemical analysis is often not enough to define the degree of wastewater treatment. It was used toxicological research to determine the effect on the environment. Toxicity of wastewaters was measured using biotests with Vibrio fischeri and Daphnia magna. The results revealed that the volume of leachate in the treated mixture should not exceed 10 % vol. The following conclusion can be drawn from the present research - co-treated wastewater was not toxic. Landfill co-treatment with the dairy wastewater impacts on the effectiveness of biological wastewater treatment. Leachate includes substances which have low susceptibility to biodegradation; on the other hand, dairy wastewaters provide a lot of organic compounds, which can help to treat them.
Structured problem solving: combined approach using 8d and six sigma case study
Authors: Sharma Mithun , Sharma Shilpi , Sahni Sanjeev
Published: May 2020

The current research study aimed to explore the utility of selected problem-solving tools and techniques in root-cause analysis to demonstrate their practical application. An experimental research design adopting a positivist empirical approach with a deductive strategy was followed to assess the effectiveness of a combined (8D & Six Sigma) problem-solving approach in reducing a high defects rate of a mixer shower assembly line. A novel application of the 8D framework in combination with Six Sigma and other analytical tools was found highly effective in reducing the reject rate from 11.84% to 0.11%. Successful identification of the root cause led to the implementation of permanent corrective action ensuring a long-term stable assembly process. The research study provided a problem-solving framework that was found effective in resolving a complex problem and implementing long-term corrective action in an assembly production line. However, this framework can be used in other industries. The research study provides a solution to a high number of leak rejects in a sub-assembly where "O-seals" are used between mating parts. It also provides analytical tools that were found highly effective during the problem-solving process.
Nerve impulse transmission pathway-focused genes expression analysis in patients with primary hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis
Authors: Bilous Iryna I. , Korda Mykhaylo M. , Krynytska Inna Y. , Kamyshnyi Aleksandr M.
Published: May 2020

Objective. Thyroid hormones have important actions in the adult brain. They regulate genes expression in myelination, differentiation of neuronal and glial cells, and neuronal viability and function.

Methods. We used the pathway-specific real-time PCR array (Neurotrophins and Receptors RT2 Profiler PCR Array, QIAGEN, Germany) to identify and verify nerve impulse transmission pathway-focused genes expression in peripheral white blood cells of patients with postoperative hypothyroidism, hypothyroidism as a result of autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) and AIT with elevated serum an anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) and anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies.

Results. It was shown that patients with postoperative hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism resulting from AIT had significantly lower expression of BDNF and CBLN1. In patients with AIT with elevated serum anti-Tg and anti-TPO antibodies, the expression of GDNF was significantly down-regulated and the expression of PNOC was up-regulated. The expression levels of MEF2C and NTSR1 were decreased in the group of patients with postoperative hypothyroidism and AIT, correspondingly.

Conclusions. The results of this study demonstrate that AIT and hypothyroidism can affect the expression of mRNA nerve impulse transmission genes in gene specific manner and that these changes in gene expressions can be playing a role in the development of neurological complications associated with thyroid pathology. Detection of the transcriptional activity of nerve impulse transmission genes in peripheral white blood cells can be used as an important minimally invasive prognostic marker of the risk for developing neurological complications comorbid with thyroid pathology.
Factors of the Value Added Tax Collection Efficiency in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Ristić Milica , Todorović Jadranka Đurović , Đorđević Marina
Published: May 2020

The policy led by a large number of developing countries, with the aim of increasing indirect taxes, has opened the issue of Value Added Tax (VAT) performance. Reforms of tax systems of transition countries generally involve an increase in standard rates in order to increase VAT, which is the main source of public revenues. In such a way, developing countries determine the VAT performance and the amount of revenue that could be collected by indirect taxation. Theoretical analyses of standard rates and other factors that have reflections on the VAT collection efficiency explicitly prove that there are different ways to improve the efficiency of VAT collection, and exclude an increase in the standard rate. An increase in the standard rate provides a balance of negative effects, which can be blurred by recorded tax revenues. The subject of this paper is an analysis of the factors that influence the efficiency of VAT collection in Serbia. The main objective of the paper is to examine the impact of the change in the standard rate, which is the result of the reforms carried out in 2012, on the performance of VAT. Regression analysis was applied to the data series for the period 2005-2016.The results show that the change in the standard rate had a statistically significant negative impact on VAT performance. Our analysis also indicates that the economic growth rate has reflections on VAT collection. A strong positive correlation between the economic growth rate and VAT performance was calculated.
Comparative Analysis of Executive Compensation in the Republic of Serbia and EU Countries
Authors: Matović Ivana Marinović
Published: May 2020

Executive compensations have a strong motivation role in contemporary business organizations. Adequate models of compensation enable attracting and retaining the high-capacity managers. This way, business organization conquers and maintains the competitive position in the context of globalization. It is necessary to align the executive compensation with the business organization’s strategy, which requires careful process of planning, done by the highest levels of management and ownership. The main objective of the paper is to explore and compare the structure and the level of executive compensation in the Republic of Serbia and EU countries. The paper focuses on executive compensation components, primarily long-term and short-term incentives, as well as sallary and benefits. A comparative analysis of executive compensation models was performed to explain the differences in the observed countries.The study found large and disproportionate differences in the executive compensation levels, conditioned mostly by the economic development of the observed economies.
The Review of Methods for Assignment of Elective Courses at Universities
Authors: Trifunović Dejan
Published: May 2020

In this paper we present a review of matching algorithms that are used for matching students with elective courses at universities. This is an example of a market where price mechanism cannot be used to determine the equilibrium allocation. In the Random Serial Dictatorship students select courses based on their position in a random queue. This mechanism is not ex post Pareto-efficient and its drawback is overcome in the Probabilistic Serial Assignment, although this mechanism is not strategy-proof. In the auction mechanism, students’ bids for courses do not represent their true preferences, since bids depend on their beliefs about the popularity of courses. The efficient allocation is obtained when Deferred Acceptance Algorithm is used - where the priority of students is determined based on their bids. Harvard draft mechanism is based on changing the order of students in the random queue from one round to another and this mechanism is not strategy-proof; however, it is, by all means, better for students than Random Serial Dictatorship. The Wharton Business School mechanism is based on the calculation of approximate competitive equilibrium.
Towards Food Policy for Europe: A Comparison of the Post-2020 Common Agricultural Policy Discourses
Authors: Minotti Bianca , Zagata Lukáš
Published: May 2020

This paper dives into the world of policy discourses to assess the extent to which the European agencies’ discourse of the post-2020 Common Agricultural Policy incorporates the innovative impulses presented in the Common Food Policy proposal of the International Panel of Experts on Sustainable Food Systems (IPES food). The discourse analysis performed on European Commission and IPES food documents, showed fundamentally different foci and goals, proposed actions and understanding of the concept of sustainability. However, although the differences between the two discourses are still very large, the analysis points out that some features of the IPES food discourse are starting to become part of that of the European Commission.
Dogs Health Related to Ear Cropping
Authors: Packová A. , Takáčová D.
Published: May 2020

Ear cropping is a controversial subject with both supporters as well as detractors. Some consider that the procedure is cruel and unnecessary, while others consider it to be routine and harmless. The cropping of the ears of dogs for cosmetic reasons has no medical merit. It is a cosmetic, surgical procedure performed to achieve a specific appearance that matches the desired image and sometimes the standard of certain breeds of dogs. Cosmetic surgery offers the dog the desired look, but it is not a necessity. This procedure must be performed by a licensed veterinarian. Those interventions cause pain and anxiety and, like all surgical procedures, are associated with the risk of anaesthesia problems, blood loss and infection. There is only a thin line between what is convenient for the animal and what is good. Almost every community has legislation on animal welfare which includes amputation issues. If something is considered normal in some countries, this does not necessarily mean that it is also moral. The lack of legal consequences may lead some owners to produce certain breeds of dogs to their liking, but they should not be allowed to cripple their dog for their own personal benefit. Amputation can only be performed legally by a veterinarian and a new problem arises. This is because there are veterinarians who refuse to practice that kind of intervention. Some of them may think that since the legislation is unclear, they might be charged with a crime.
The Main Gaps for Randomized-controlled Trials in Psychiatry: A Bibliometric Study
Authors: Castaldelli-Maia João Mauricio , Riba Michelle B. , Lecic-Tosevski Dusica , Chandra Prabha S. , Cia Alfredo , Tyrer Peter J. , Heun Reinhard , Szabo Christopher Paul
Published: May 2020

Background

There is evidence of a progressive increase in the number of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) in the area of psychiatry. However, some areas of psychiatry receive more attention from researchers potentially to the detriment of others.

Methods

Aiming to investigate main gaps for RCTs in psychiatry, the present bibliometric study analysed the bi-annual and five-year rates of RCTs in the main database of medical studies (Pubmed) over the 1999–2018 period (n = 3,449). This analysis was carried out using the ICD-10 mental and behavioural chapter. ICD-10, was the edition of the manual used throughout the above period.

Results

Overall, after 16 years of considerable increase in the bi-annual absolute number of RCTs, there has been a slowdown in the last 4 years, similar to other medical areas. Affective, organic and psychotic disorders, and depression, schizophrenia and dementia were the top studied groups and disorders respectively – ahead of other groups/diagnoses. For substance use disorders, there has been a decrease of RCT in the last 5 years, in line with the fall of alcohol use disorder in the ranking of most studied disorders. Delirium and mild cognitive disorder are both ascending in this ranking. Personality disorders and mental retardation stand out as the least studied groups over the whole assessment period.

Conclusion

Novel treatments, ease of access to patient populations, and ‘clinical vogue’, seem to be more important in guiding the undertaking of RCTs than the actual need as indicated by prevalence and/or burden of disorders and public health impact. Regarding specific disorders, acute/transient psychosis; mixed anxiety and depression; adjustment disorder; dissociative and conversion disorders; somatization; hypochondria; and neurasthenia, would deserve future RCTs. Clinical researchers and editors of scientific journals should give special attention to the less studied areas and disorders, when considering conducting and publishing RCT studies, respectively.
Achievement of Management Performance Business Banking Using Measurement Model System Quality Management Canadian Award for Excellence (SQMCAFE) Case Study : PT. Bank Bjb (Jabar-Banten) Tbk. Indonesia
Authors: Soedarso Sri Widodo
Published: May 2020

This is paper research case study to examines application the organization achievement measuring for Management Performance Business Banking company using Model Sistem Quality Management Canadian Award For Excellence (SQMCAFE) comply with role and regulation international quality management standard of banking, with case study at Bank Jabar Banten Tbk. (PT. Bjb). The main objective of this research is identify, investigate and measurement of signification understanding the excellent of level capability and reliability quality management performance effect positively with sevent (7) independent variables of SQMCAFE Model toward achievement of performance manajemen business for banking firms.
Effect of the endophytic plant growth promoting Enterobacter ludwigii EB4B on tomato growth
Authors: Bendaha M.E.A. , Belaouni H.A.
Published: May 2020

This study aims to develop a biocontrol agent against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. radicis-lycopersici (FORL) in tomato. For this, a set of 23 bacterial endophytic isolates has been screened for their ability to inhibit in vitro the growth of FORL using the dual plate assay. Three isolates with the most sound antagonistic activity to FORL have been qualitatively screened for siderophore production, phosphates solubilization and indolic acetic acid (IAA) synthesis as growth promotion traits. Antagonistic values of the three candidates against FORL were respectively: 51.51 % (EB4B), 51.18 % (EB22K) and 41.40 % (EB2A). Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the isolates EB4B and EB22K were closely related to Enterobacter ludwigii EN-119, while the strain EB2A has been assigned to Leclercia adecarboxylata NBRC 102595. The promotion of tomato growth has been assessed in vitro using the strains EB2A, EB4B and EB22K in presence of the phytopathogen FORL. The treatments with the selected isolates increased significantly the root length and dry weight. Best results were observed in isolate EB4B in terms of growth promotion in the absence of FORL, improving 326.60 % of the root length and 142.70 % of plant dry weight if compared with untreated controls. In the presence of FORL, the strain EB4B improved both root length (180.81 %) and plant dry weight (202.15 %). These results encourage further characterization of the observed beneficial effect of Enterobacter sp. EB4B for a possible use as biofertilizer and biocontrol agent against FORL.
Two Pandemics Coalition: Covid-19 and Obesity
Authors: Hâncu Anca , Mihălţan Florin
Published: May 2020

COVID-19 epidemic caused by an influenza-like virus strain (SARS-CoV-2) invaded the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced this infection outbreak as a global pandemic on 11 March 2020. From one day to another the number of new cases is growing and also the number of deaths. This infection emerged earlier in Wuhan City and rapidly spread throughout China and around the world since December 2019. Another silent pandemic disease spreading mainly in industrialized countries is obesity. The best example is US were about 34% of the Americans are obese.

In actual context, it can be said there is a coalition of 2 pandemics. In Romania, obesity and overweight prevalence assessed by Predatorr study is at a high level: 34,7% overweight and 31,9% obesity. Systemic inflammation in obesity is the central mechanism leading to lung function decline. There are two main questions a) is obese more sensible to viral infection or b) potentially more contagious? The answer is positive to both. Recent WOF official position stated that obesity is a risk factor for developing severe forms of COVID-19. Donna Ryan’s message, as president of World Obesity Federation WOF, US emphasized at the beginning of April the risk for severe complications for persons with obesity who contracted the infection with SARS-CoV-2. Nutritional support in COVID-19 should prefer oral feeding, whenever is possible. A special attention should be dedicated to a healthy microbiome and intestinal immunity. Energy intake should be 25-30 kcal/body weight, with 1.2-2 g/kg proteins. Enteral nutrition will be recommended in severe cases. Evidence is supporting the recommendation that for people at risk of developing COVID-19 to consider for few weeks a dosage of 10000 UI/day of vitD3, than a maintainance dose of 5000 UI/day. The target must be to stabilize a level of 40-60 ng/ml for 25(OH) D concentration. Pulmonary rehabilitation, smoking cessation, included in a healthy lifestyle will be further steps after patients recovery from this infection.

Facing this pandemic coalition, our messages should be stronger in stimulating prevention of obesity. Since more than a half of Romanian population is already overweight or obese, healthy lifestyle should become a daily prescription, not just a luxury recommendation. Daily, right messages from doctors acting like role models, in a partnership between general practitioner and other specialties like diabetologists, pneumologists, cardiologists, nutritionists will be efficient weapons against this cruel coalition: Obesity and COVID 19.
A New Method for Automatic Determining of the DBSCAN Parameters
Authors: Starczewski Artur , Goetzen Piotr , Er Meng Joo
Published: May 2020

Clustering is an attractive technique used in many fields in order to deal with large scale data. Many clustering algorithms have been proposed so far. The most popular algorithms include density-based approaches. These kinds of algorithms can identify clusters of arbitrary shapes in datasets. The most common of them is the Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN). The original DBSCAN algorithm has been widely applied in various applications and has many different modifications. However, there is a fundamental issue of the right choice of its two input parameters, i.e the eps radius and the MinPts density threshold. The choice of these parameters is especially difficult when the density variation within clusters is significant. In this paper, a new method that determines the right values of the parameters for different kinds of clusters is proposed. This method uses detection of sharp distance increases generated by a function which computes a distance between each element of a dataset and its k-th nearest neighbor. Experimental results have been obtained for several different datasets and they confirm a very good performance of the newly proposed method.
Sudden and Prevalent Deaths of Foraging Honey Bees in Early Spring During Sowing of Clothianidin Coated Maize Seeds Between 2013 and 2018 in Turkey
Authors: Oruç Hasan H. , Çayci Meltem , Sariyev Rashad
Published: May 2020

Between 2013 and 2018, there was an outbreak of sudden foraging honey bee deaths in Turkey’s Çukurova Region from the beginning of February to the middle of March, a period of time when the sowing of maize seeds occurs in the region. Upon returning, the affected bees were unable to enter the hive because of unbalanced flying and walking. Deaths were seen at apiaries located on plains or near plains where maize seeds were sowed. When winds blew from the direction of the plains towards the hives, honey bee deaths increased, but when the weather was rainy, honey bee deaths decreased or stopped. Honey bee losses were mainly between 30% and 80%. Investigations related to the honey bee deaths were carried out in the affected apiaries using on-site inspection and laboratory tests. The main reason of deaths would be linked to the clothianidin coated maize seeds used in the plain during sowing period. No remarkable correlation with any bee pathogens was detected related to the sudden and prevalent honey bee deaths.
The Second Edition of the Integrative Levels Classification: Evolution of a KOS
Authors: Park Ziyoung , Gnoli Claudio , Morelli Daniele P.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper informs about the publication of the second edition of the Integrative Levels Classification (ILC2), a freely-faceted knowledge organization system (KOS), and reviews the main changes that have been introduced as compared to its first edition (ILC1).

Design/methodology/approach

The most relevant changes are illustrated, with special reference to those of interest to general classification theory, by means of examples of notation for individual classes and combinations of them.

Findings

Changes introduced in ILC2 include: the names and order of some main classes; the development of subclasses for various phenomena, especially quantities and algebraic structures; the order of facet categories and the new category of Disorder; notation for special facets; distinction of the semantical function of facets (attributes) from their syntactic function. The system can be freely accessed online through a PHP browser as well as in SKOS format.

Research limitations

Only a selection of changed classes is discussed for space reasons.

Practical implications

ILC1 has been previously applied to the BARTOC directory of KOSs. Update of BARTOC data to ILC2 and application of ILC2 to further information systems are envisaged. Possible methods for reclassifying BARTOC with ILC2 are discussed.

Originality

ILC is a newly developed classification system, based on phenomena instead of traditional disciplines and featuring various innovative devices. This paper is an original account of its most recent evolution.
“SEMANTIC” in a Digital Curation Model
Authors: Lee Hyewon , Yoon Soyoung , Park Ziyoung
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study attempts to propose an abstract model by gathering concepts that can focus on resource representation and description in a digital curation model and suggest a conceptual model that emphasizes semantic enrichment in a digital curation model.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducts a literature review to analyze the preceding curation models, DCC CLM, DCC&U, UC3, and DCN.

Findings

The concept of semantic enrichment is expressed in a single word, SEMANTIC in this study. The Semantic Enrichment Model, SEMANTIC has elements, subject, extraction, multi-language, authority, network, thing, identity, and connect.

Research limitations

This study does not reflect the actual information environment because it focuses on the concepts of the representation of digital objects.

Practical implications

This study presents the main considerations for creating and reinforcing the description and representation of digital objects when building and developing digital curation models in specific institutions.

Originality/value

This study summarizes the elements that should be emphasized in the representation of digital objects in terms of information organization.
Multi-Aspect Incremental Tensor Decomposition Based on Distributed In-Memory Big Data Systems
Authors: Yang Hye-Kyung , Yong Hwan-Seung
Published: May 2020

Purpose

We propose InParTen2, a multi-aspect parallel factor analysis three-dimensional tensor decomposition algorithm based on the Apache Spark framework. The proposed method reduces re-decomposition cost and can handle large tensors.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering that tensor addition increases the size of a given tensor along all axes, the proposed method decomposes incoming tensors using existing decomposition results without generating sub-tensors. Additionally, InParTen2 avoids the calculation of Khari–Rao products and minimizes shuffling by using the Apache Spark platform.

Findings

The performance of InParTen2 is evaluated by comparing its execution time and accuracy with those of existing distributed tensor decomposition methods on various datasets. The results confirm that InParTen2 can process large tensors and reduce the re-calculation cost of tensor decomposition. Consequently, the proposed method is faster than existing tensor decomposition algorithms and can significantly reduce re-decomposition cost.

Research limitations

There are several Hadoop-based distributed tensor decomposition algorithms as well as MATLAB-based decomposition methods. However, the former require longer iteration time, and therefore their execution time cannot be compared with that of Spark-based algorithms, whereas the latter run on a single machine, thus limiting their ability to handle large data.

Practical implications

The proposed algorithm can reduce re-decomposition cost when tensors are added to a given tensor by decomposing them based on existing decomposition results without re-decomposing the entire tensor.

Originality/value

The proposed method can handle large tensors and is fast within the limited-memory framework of Apache Spark. Moreover, InParTen2 can handle static as well as incremental tensor decomposition.
Effective Opinion Spam Detection: A Study on Review Metadata Versus Content
Authors: Rastogi Ajay , Mehrotra Monica , Ali Syed Shafat
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the effectiveness of two major types of features—metadata-based (behavioral) and content-based (textual)—in opinion spam detection.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on spam-detection perspectives, our approach works in three settings: review-centric (spam detection), reviewer-centric (spammer detection) and product-centric (spam-targeted product detection). Besides this, to negate any kind of classifier-bias, we employ four classifiers to get a better and unbiased reflection of the obtained results. In addition, we have proposed a new set of features which are compared against some well-known related works. The experiments performed on two real-world datasets show the effectiveness of different features in opinion spam detection.

Findings

Our findings indicate that behavioral features are more efficient as well as effective than the textual to detect opinion spam across all three settings. In addition, models trained on hybrid features produce results quite similar to those trained on behavioral features than on the textual, further establishing the superiority of behavioral features as dominating indicators of opinion spam. The features used in this work provide improvement over existing features utilized in other related works. Furthermore, the computation time analysis for feature extraction phase shows the better cost efficiency of behavioral features over the textual.

Research limitations

The analyses conducted in this paper are solely limited to two well-known datasets, viz., YelpZip and YelpNYC of Yelp.com.

Practical implications

The results obtained in this paper can be used to improve the detection of opinion spam, wherein the researchers may work on improving and developing feature engineering and selection techniques focused more on metadata information.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind which considers three perspectives (review, reviewer and product-centric) and four classifiers to analyze the effectiveness of opinion spam detection using two major types of features. This study also introduces some novel features, which help to improve the performance of opinion spam detection methods.
Cognitive solution for IoT communication technologies – emphasis on 5G
Authors: Asif Anisur Rahman , Zahra Fatema , Matin Mohammad Abdul
Published: May 2020

The 5G cellular network technology, in collaboration with Internet of Things (IoT), is envisaged to connect the world together through a flawless Internet connection between devices and sensors. The things in IoT term can be of any smart devices or Internet-enabled sensors that can share information in order to perform a task collectively or individually. On the other hand, Cognitive Internet of Things plays a vital role in utilizing available spectrum for 5G networks. Addition of cognitive feature to the things can allow decision making capability, thereby reducing the overall traffic congestion and improving the efficiency of the whole IoT system. Therefore, it is of great concern to develop an intelligent network to address a few challenges such as heterogeneity and volume of devices in 5G. The aim of this article is to provide a critical review of existing IoT communication Technologies and highlight several challenges and their potential solutions associated with Cognitive IoT based 5G networks.
The Major Biological Approaches in the Integrated Pest Management of Onion Thrips, Thrips Tabaci (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
Authors: Woldemelak Wondimagegn Atilaw
Published: May 2020

Thrips tabaci Lindeman is a cosmopolitan and polyphagous insect pest. It is known worldwide and recorded on more than 300 plant species. T. tabaci is a key pest of onion and several other crops, and its control is vital to the production and profitability of crops. If onion thrips population is not controlled, damage can reduce yield volume and quality. In addition to direct damage to the host plants, T. tabaci has been characterized as an asymptomatic vector of three devastating tospovirus species, such as Tomato spotted wilt virus, Iris yellow spot virus, and Tomato yellow ring virus. For this reason, several synthetic insecticides were used for control. However, these insecticides bring unwanted effects, like pesticide resistance, elimination of nontarget species, environmental pollution, and threats to human health. To solve the negative consequences of insecticides, biopesticides, such as plant secondary metabolites, entomopathogenic viruses, bacteria, fungi, and nematodes, have been recognized as effective alternatives. The use of plant-based insecticides and entomopathogenic control methods gained more attention in integrated pest management. Their strong side is lack of residues, saving beneficial insects and minimizing air and water pollution. Plant-derived compounds and entomopathogenic biological control agents offered a variety of biological modes of actions against onion thrips, such as repellency, feeding deterrence, anti-oviposition, fecundity deterrence, metamorphosis inhibition, and parasiting the host’s body.
Impact of Using a Filter in a Direct Gasoline Injection Engine Exhaust System on the Emitted Particle Mass and Number
Authors: Fuć Paweł , Lijewski Piotr , Sokolnicka Barbara , Szymlet Natalia , Siedlecki Maciej , Dębowski Tomasz
Published: May 2020

The article presents emission test results comparison carried out on a dynamic engine dynamometer. Parameters were recorded during a drive made in accordance with the requirements of the RDE. Test bench allowed to determine the particle mass and number emission in the repetitive engine operation conditions. One of three used elements wan an OEM solution from one of particulate filters producers, the other was intended for use in original systems, the third was a custom product. The highest efficiency of particulate filtration was demonstrated by the last filter, which was adapted to the engine.
Optimization Model for Planning Set of Measures to Prevent Occupational Injuries in Machine-Building Enterprises
Authors: Stupnytska Nataliya , Stupnytskyy Vadym
Published: May 2020

Criteria of occupational injuries potential risk in the machine-building industry are described in the article. Systemic analysis of the structure of the measures to prevent occupational injuries is given. Main tasks to reduce the risk of industrial injury at the machine-building enterprise are analysed. The methodology for optimal planning of accident prevention measures at the machine-building enterprise is described. A mathematical interpretation of the problem is given. The objective function is an argument of the maximum integral effectiveness for the set of planned measures to prevent occupational injuries. Constraint set of the optimization model describes the impossibility to exceed the allowable limit of cost, the feasibility and the possibility of implementing the measure’s plan reasoning from the technological and construction requirements of existing production engineering.
The Automated System of Optical Observation and Tracking of Space Objects
Authors: Łukasiewicz Jerzy , Lubieniecka Joanna , Kusiński Jerzy , Sarna Wiesław , Tchórznicki Krzysztof
Published: May 2020

Having a fleet of artificial satellites necessitates the construction of a system that will enable obtaining information on the situation in the Earth orbit (Space Situation Awareness - SSA). Such systems are built either as active radar systems or as passive optical systems. The automated system of optical observation and tracking of space objects (ASOPEK) consists of two optical systems (wide-angle and narrow-angle) and software enabling: detection of artificial satellites in the field of view of the system, identification of detected objects, updating the satellite database with unknown objects, updating orbits of observed objects. The ASOPEK system was created as part of a project financed by the National Center for Research and Development No. DOB-BIO7/25/02/2015.