bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gravimetric recovery of the Moho geometry based on a generalized compensation model
Authors: Tenzer Robert
Published: May 2018

Gravity data used for a recovery of the Moho depths should (optimally) comprise only the gravitational signal of the Moho geometry. This theoretical assumption is typically not required in classical isostatic models, which are applied in gravimetric inverse methods for a recovery of the Moho interface. To overcome this theoretical deficiency, we formulate the gravimetric inverse problem for the consolidated crust-stripped gravity disturbances, which have (theoretically) a maximum correlation with the Moho geometry, while the gravitational contributions of anomalous density structures within the lithosphere and sub-lithosphere mantle (including the core-mantle boundary) should be subtracted from these gravity data. In the absence of a reliable 3-D Earth’s density model, our definitions are limited to the crustal and upper mantle density structures. The gravimetric forward modeling technique is applied to compute these gravity data using available models of major known anomalous crustal and upper mantle density structures. The gravimetric inverse problem is defined by means of the (non-linear) Fredholm integral equation of the first kind. After linearization of the integral equation, the solution to the gravimetric inverse problem is given in a frequency domain. The inverse problem is formulated for a generalized crustal compensation model. It implies that the compensation equilibrium is (theoretically) attained by both, the variable depth and density of compensation. A theoretical definition of this generalized crustal compensation model and a formulation of the gravimetric inverse problem for finding the Moho depths are given in this study.
On the Comparison of Various Overhead Arrangements for Massive MIMO-OFDM Channel Estimation
Authors: Sure Pallaviram , Bhuma Chandra Mohan
Published: May 2018

Massive multi input multi output (MIMO) systems incorporate orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) technology to render high data rate services for future wireless communication applications. The channel estimator (CE) employed by a reliable massive MIMO-OFDM system requires huge amount of overhead in the form of known and null data transmissions, hence limiting the system spectral efficiency (SE). Often, CE design is a tradeoff between SE and system reliability. In this paper, CE with three different overhead arrangements, namely time domain synchronous (TDS), comb type with cyclic prefix (CTCP), 2D grid type with cyclic prefix (GTCP) are investigated and a GTCP based CE is proposed which offers both high SE and improved system reliability. The proposed CE uses autocorrelation based denoising threshold for channel impulse response (CIR) estimation and does not require any knowledge of channel statistics (KCS). A 4 x 16 MIMO-OFDM system is simulated in a rayleigh fading channel environment with U-shaped doppler spectrum. From the bit error rate (BER) performance results inWiMax SUI-4, Advanced Television Technology Center (ATTC) and Brazil A channel environments, it is verified that the proposed CE with GTCP overhead and proposed denoising scheme, indeed improves both SE and system reliability. Hence it is suitable for application in all massive MIMO-OFDM systems.
Transactional Distance among Open University Students: How Does it Affect the Learning Process?
Authors: Kassandrinou Amanda , Angelaki Christina , Mavroidis Ilias
Published: May 2018

This study examines the presence of transactional distance among students, the factors affecting it, as well as the way it influences the learning process of students in a blended distance learning setting in Greece. The present study involved 12 postgraduate students of the Hellenic Open University (HOU). A qualitative research was conducted, using information collected via individual semi-structured interviews. Content analysis of the gathered information provided evidence regarding the existence of student-student transactional distance for several reasons, such as geographical and relatively limited face to face interaction. The role of the tutor as well as of the course provider were also examined in this respect. Finally the study indicated that the existence of perceived transactional distance among the students has a negative effect on their learning process.
An Exploratory Study of Emotional Affordance of a Massive Open Online Course
Authors: Cheng Jeremy C.Y.
Published: May 2018

This exploratory study examines emotional affordance of a massive open online course (MOOC). Postings in a discussion forum of a MOOC in computer science are analysed following a research design informed by virtual ethnography. Emotional affordance is investigated, focusing on nonachievement emotions which are not directly linked to achievement activities or outcomes. The study identifies two non-achievement emotions in the MOOC. First, altruistic emotion evolves with the collaborative learning community and possibly compensates for teachers’ minimal emotional intervention in a large, diverse class. Second, intergenerational emotional resonance is observed and this bears a key implication on managing age diversity for the future MOOCs.
Virtual Class – An Appropriate Environment for Distance Learning Mathematics at an Open University
Authors: Hadjinicolaou Maria
Published: May 2018

Distance learning at an Open University usually engages technology mediated teaching tools and learning environments that have been designed and developed during the last decades. Unlike the apparently governing social learning pedagogical point of view and the benefits of asynchronous e-learning platforms, the cognitive perspectives of education and the need for synchronous interaction between the tutor and the students as well as the students themselves, is decisive for the quality of attained knowledge. Open universities, traditionally, used to organize consultative group meetings aiming at the better understanding of concepts, the development of skills, the gaining of positive attitudes and finally the enhancement of knowledge. Tutors in mathematics courses face significant difficulties due to the students’ heterogeneous mathematical background and thus problems arise that may impede a lot the acquisition of knowledge. These problems must be also addressed in the group meetings and therefore the reconstruction of the pre-existing mathematical knowledge under a common basis and the acquisition of cognitive flexibility in handling mathematical concepts in different fields are two fundamental objectives of such meetings. Virtual classes provide the appropriate environment for achieving these aims, since they allow a qualitative dynamical, on-line communication among the members of a group.
Nigerian Students’ Perceptions and Cultural Meaning Construction regarding Academic Integrity in the Online International Classroom
Authors: Szilagyi Annamaria
Published: May 2018

By presenting perceptions of Nigerian students enrolled in the online international postgraduate programmes of the University of Liverpool regarding academic integrity, this paper aims to explore Western ideas, such as originality and plagiarism that are extraneous in the students’ local cultures. Different historical and cultural circumstances may contribute to the construction of diverse meanings that online students attribute to these concepts. The multidisciplinary study follows phenomenological research design (van Manen, 1997; Creswell, 2007) and combines cultural anthropology (Hall, 1996, Hannerz, 2001; Coleman et al., 2010) as well as online education (Anderson, 2008) in the research. The paper promotes a non-judgmental and culturally aware approach when dealing with issues of academic integrity, intends to find ideological reasons in authentic cultural belief systems that may demonstrate that the common ‘nonunderstanding’ concerning academic integrity is due to a culture-dependent meaning construction process, which leads to the ideological misinterpretation of these Western concepts.
What’s Your Experience With … ? C2C Communication Helps Sell Your Products
Authors: Adjei M. T. , Noble S. M. , Noble C. H.
Published: May 2018

Consumers increasingly use the internet for pre-purchase information gathering, and its online brand communities have become a valuable source of information. However, not only consumers benefit from the experience of other users; high-quality online conversation can also help companies. A study of two different online forums for high quality woodworking equipment showed that online brand communities were effective tools for influencing sales, regardless of whether these communities resided on company-owned or independently owned websites. Good consumer comments
– timely, relevant and detailed postings – reduced feelings of consumer uncertainty and, in turn, influenced customer purchase behavior in a positive way. The effect of communication quality on uncertainty reduction was stronger for complex products and when the respondents were perceived to be experts. These experts not only provided more valuable information to others but benefitted, in turn, more than novice users from the information provided. It seemed that people with higher expertise asked more specific questions about products and therefore received more specific and helpful replies. Results showed that the possible adverse effect of negative postings seems to be overestimated. Positive information shared by community members had a stronger influence on purchase behavior and was more influential than negative information – at least below a certain threshold. It is therefore advisable for companies to encourage online consumer communication.
To Zap or Not to Zap: How to Insert the Brand in TV Commercials to Minimize Avoidance
Authors: Teixeira Thales , Wedel Michel , Pieters Rik
Published: May 2018

Vast sums of money are still spent on TV advertising. In an environment of rising perviewer rates for advertisers and increased skipping past ads by consumers it is necessary for advertising managers to understand the determinants of commercial avoidance. In order to optimize brand exposure they need information on how to best retain consumers’ attention from moment-to-moment during television advertising. This large-scale eye tracking study shows that the decision to zap or not to zap depends on how the brand is presented within the commercial. First, the ability of a commercial to concentrate consumers’ visual attention reduced avoidance significantly. Second, the likelihood that viewers will zap can be decreased with a “pulsing strategy” in which brand images are shown more frequently for a shorter period of time within the commercial instead of longer at the beginning or end.
A Closer Look at Emotional Intelligence in Marketing Exchange
Authors: Kidwell Blair , Hardesty David M. , Murtha Brian R. , Sheng Shibin
Published: May 2018

Emotional intelligence (EI) is important in many business contexts. Knowing how sales professionals use emotions to facilitate positive outcomes for their firms, themselves and their customers is particularly important for managing marketing exchanges. To leverage EI it is necessary to accurately measure it. Existing scales are of limited value and therefore a new scale to measure EI in marketing exchange is presented here. It focuses on EI related abilities in the specific context of marketing exchange and effectively demonstrates how EI interacts with sales, customer orientation, the extent of influence of a sales rep in an encounter, customer retention and cognitive ability. The new tool helps to diagnose individual levels of marketing exchange EI. It can be very useful for employee selection and designing specific sales training in order to improve exchange relationships and interactions between buyers and sellers, in particular.
Do you Want to Be my “friend”? MONETARY VALUE OF WORD-OF-MOUTH MARKETING IN ONLINE COMMUNITIES
Authors: Trusov Michael , Bucklin Randolph E. , Pauwels Koen
Published: May 2018

How large and lasting are the effects of word-of-mouth (WOM) referrals versus paid marketing? What is the $ / € worth of a WOM-referral to an Internet social networking site? This study finds that word-of-mouth referrals have substantially longer carryover effects than traditional marketing actions. The long-run elasticity of WOM on site signups is 0.53; about 20 times higher than that of marketing events, and 30 times that of media appearances. Based on revenue from advertising impressions served to a new member of the site, the monetary value of a WOM referral is about $0.75 per year. By sending out 10 referrals, each network member thus brings in $7.50 to the firm; which represents the maximum reward the firm could consider to incentivize word-of-mouth referrals. Managers can use this approach and findings to benchmark metrics for both WOM and traditional marketing, to test changes in online WOM referral content, and to decide on the appropriate size of financial incentives to stimulate WOM.
Response Styles and how to Correct them
Authors: Weijters Bert , Geuens Maggie , Schillewaert Niels
Published: May 2018

Cross-mode surveys are on the rise. Unfortunately, data obtained from different modes of data collection (e.g., telephone and online data) may not be comparable due to measurement bias, especially differences in acquiescence, disacquiescence, extreme and midpoint response styles. This article discusses a study that finds response style differences between data based on the same questionnaire, but obtained by different modes of data collection: paper-and-pencil questionnaires, telephone interviews, and online questionnaires. Similar problems may also occur in cross-national data. We propose a new method to measure response styles and correct for them: the representative indicators response style means and covariance structure (RIRSMACS) method
MIR talks to Professor Dr. Klaus Wübbenhorst, CEO, GfK SE
Authors: Diller Hermann
Published: May 2018

For some years now, institutional market research has faced numerous and often serious challenges, which are becoming even more demanding in the present economic recession. In September 2009, MIR talked to the Chairman of the Board of GfK SE, the world´s fourth largest market research institute
Creating Shopping Momentum
Authors: Dhar Ravi , Huber Joel , Khan Uzma
Published: May 2018

New research on consumer behavior throws light on what creates a mindset that leads customers to keep on shopping. What underlies shopping momentum is a shift from a deliberation mindset to one of implementation. In the deliberation mindset, the potential customer evaluates the pros and cons of a purchase, rather in the manner suggested by the theory of utility maximization.

However, once they have shifted to the implementation mindset, they are focused on purchasing - and this is just what they do. When they make the shift to an implementation mindset, they will carry on shopping without engaging their evaluative capacity until something intervenes to break the momentum.
Managing your Customer’s Tariff Choice: What to do when your Customers Pay too Much
Authors: Lambrecht Anja , Skiera Bernd
Published: May 2018

Telecommunications companies traditionally offer several tariffs from which their customers can choose the tariff that best suits their preferences. Yet, customers sometimes make choices that are not optimal for them because they do not minimize their bill for a certain usage amount. We show in this paper that companies should be very concerned about choices in which customers pick tariffs that are too small for them because they lead to a significant increase in customers churn. In contrast, this is not the case if customers choose tariffs that are too big for them. The reason is that in particular flat-rates provide customers with the additional benefit that they guarantee a constant bill amount that consumption can be enjoyed more freely because all costs are already accounted for.
Parameter estimation of soil hydraulic and thermal property functions for unsaturated porous media using the HYDRUS-2D code
Authors: Nakhaei Mohammad , Šimůnek Jiří
Published: May 2018

Knowledge of soil hydraulic and thermal properties is essential for studies involving the combined effects of soil temperature and water input on water flow and redistribution processes under field conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the parameters characterizing these properties from a transient water flow and heat transport field experiment. Real-time sensors built by the authors were used to monitor soil temperatures at depths of 40, 80, 120, and 160 cm during a 10-hour long ring infiltration experiment. Water temperatures and cumulative infiltration from a single infiltration ring were monitored simultaneously. The soil hydraulic parameters (the saturated water content θ s, empirical shape parameters α and n, and the saturated hydraulic conductivity Ks) and soil thermal conductivity parameters (coefficients b1, b2, and b3 in the thermal conductivity function) were estimated from cumulative infiltration and temperature measurements by inversely solving a two-dimensional water flow and heat transport using HYDRUS-2D. Three scenarios with a different, sequentially decreasing number of optimized parameters were considered. In scenario 1, seven parameters (θ s, Ks, α, n, b1, b2, and b3) were included in the inverse problem. The results indicated that this scenario does not provide a unique solution. In scenario 2, six parameters (Ks, α, n, b1, b2, and b3) were included in the inverse problem. The results showed that this scenario also results in a non-unique solution. Only scenario 3, in which five parameters (α, n, b1, b2, and b3) were included in the inverse problem, provided a unique solution. The simulated soil temperatures and cumulative infiltration during the ring infiltration experiment compared reasonably well with their corresponding observed values.
Key Problems of Creating the Airframe Durability / Kluczowe Problemy Kształtowania Trwałości Płatowca
Authors: Kustroń Kamila
Published: May 2018

The paper proposes a selected key issues in the efficient formation of the airframe structure. The issues of concern design lifetime, manufacturing, command of the durability proposed in the accelerated tests and management of sustainability in the operation. A key importance is of the creating a durability of the airframe, which affects to choice materials and construction solutions. A key problem is modeling the system of exploitation and the inclusion of all the factors influencing the persistence in the aspect of aviation regulatory requirements. A key area influencing the prevention after air accidents, causes by loss of structural coherence of the airframe macroscopic structure. A key importance is the use of accelerated durability testing. A key issue is to determine if the concept of durability and viability are separate or similar in characteristics of durability. The key is to determine the diamonds of quality. A key importance is attributed to diagnostics, including integrated to airframe structure, defining a continuous condition of the aircraft through research pre-fault symptoms. These studies provide the knowledge which determines prevention activities.
Risk Management of Hazards for Route Between Ławica – Kobylnica – Bednary Airports / Ocena Ryzyka Zagrożeń Na Trasie Ławica-Kobylnica-Bednary
Authors: Merkisz Jerzy , Galant Marta
Published: May 2018

The paper presents a risk management of hazards for route between Ławica - Kobylnica - Bednary airports. The evaluation was performed using a TRANS-RISK method. The authors introduced these airports, described the route and identified sources of hazards, risk and their consequences. To estimated the risk authors used risk assessment methodology - MICE SCORE. In summary, the identified risks are characterized by risk category defined as acceptable, tolerable or not acceptable.
Chosen Problems of Risk Management in Vicinity of Bridges in Respect to Ships Collisions / Problematyka Zarządzania Bezpieczeństwem W Rejonach Lokalizacji Mostowych W Aspekcie Zderzeń Jednostek Pływających
Authors: Gucma Lucjan
Published: May 2018

The paper presents several issues of risk management in respect to ship collisions with bridges. Accident statistics in Poland and around the world, risk acceptance problems and two case studies for probability assessment are presented
Numerical Modelling and Simulation of Road Crash Tests with the use of Advanced CAD/CAE Systems / Modelowanie Numeryczne I Symulacja Drogowych Testów Zderzeniowych Z Wykorzystaniem Zaawansowanych Systemów CAD/CAE
Authors: Niezgoda Tadeusz , Barnat Wiesław , Dziewulski Paweł , Kiczko Andrzej
Published: May 2018

The paper presents the methodology of numerical modelling of road crash tests based on the selected vehicle-road barrier system using the possibilities of modern CAD /CAE computing systems for a numerical simulation process of the collision. Owing to these systems, thorough analysis of the process of collision, including the analysis of the stress and strain fields and energy consumption in the tested systems, is possible. It is possible to design and redesign virtually the barriers at a relatively low cost.
Apoptosis, Annexin A5 and Anti-Annexin A5 Antibodies in The Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Bećarević Mirjana , Ignjatović Svetlana , Majkić-Singh Nada
Published: May 2018

It has been proposed that apoptosis is one of the mechanisms involved in the generation of antiphospholipid antibodies. The presence of antiphospholipid antibodies is the main laboratory criterion for a definite diagnosis of the antiphospholipid syndrome. Annexinopathies are disorders characterized by deregulation of annexins expression levels and function. Annexin A5 has been used as an agent for molecular imaging techniques (visualization of phosphatidylserineexpressing apoptotic cells) in vitro and in vivo in animal models and in patients (injection of human recombinant anxA5 into the patient‘s circulation). Although the determination of titers of anti-annexin A5 antibodies is not mandatory for the diagnosis of the antiphospholipid syndrome, it was reported that patients with primary antiphospholipid syndrome with a history of recurrent abortions had elevated titers of antiannexin A5 antibodies, while the presence of thromboses was not associated with elevated levels of these antibodies
The learning teacher: role of ambiguity in education
Authors: Suzawa Gilbert S.
Published: May 2018

Life is full of ambiguities, but as teachers we generally try to teach our students in a manner that sanitizes knowledge of all of its ambiguities. In doing so, we create an educational environment which forces students to learn in a rather meaningless fashion and this in turn leads to a lack of vitality and relevance within the academy. This need not be the case. As teachers, we should reflect on the epistemological foundations of our theories of learning and teaching and to closely examine how our teaching devices and techniques adhere to our theories. Furthermore, we need to be receptive to making any changes in our theories and teaching practice that may be warranted by the critical and creative thinking process that we apply to our professional activities. This paper attempts to guide readers through such a reflexive thinking process by trying to loosely establish a relationship between the deep concept of ambiguity (uncertainty) and some of our theories of learning via the acceptance of the view that the ultimate foundation of all human knowledge is ambiguity. We create and establish the meaning of all of our knowledge via a process of self-referencing logos. An implication of the application of self-referencing logic is the notion that a teacher can simultaneously learn and teach (“the learning teacher”). Thus, this can serve as the basis for developing the model of the “reflexive practitioner” in the teaching profession.
The Network Concept of Strategic Management and Its Limitations / Sieciowa koncepcja zarządzania strategicznego i jej ograniczenia
Authors: Krzakiewicz Kazimierz , Cyfert Szymon
Published: May 2018

The purpose of the article is to contribute to the discussion on the network concept of strategic management and the limitations thereof. The article opens with a presentation of the origin of the concept of network organizations, which further on allows the author to discuss the concept of networks in strategic management, pinpoint its limitations and assess the validity of the assumption that a new paradigm of the strategic management theory is emerging.
Integration processes in managing innovations in a region / Procesy integracyjne w zarządzaniu innowacjami w regionie
Authors: Pomykalski Andrzej , Pomykalski Przemysław
Published: May 2018

The paper concerns integration processes aimed at business and region development. Effective cooperation should be based on networks that comprise interrelations between organizations, activities and resources. Network cooperation is based on knowledge and information, which determines the innovativeness of organizations in the region. The study is based on research conducted in łódzkie region. The aim of this paper is to consider the role of integration processes in managing innovations in łódzkie voivodeship during the 2007-2013 period in the context of 2030 strategy objectives
Integrative approach to marketing of product and technology lifecycles in innovative and sustainable manufacturing enterprise / Spojrzenie integracyjne na zarządzanie cyklami życia produktu i technologii w innowacyjnym i zrównoważonym przedsiębiorstwie produkcyjnym
Authors: Gajdzik Bożena
Published: May 2018

Management of product lifecycle and technology lifecycle should occur in integrated way. Innovative technology achieved in own B+R point or from the surrounding of the enterprise creates conditions to implement new product solutions. The introduction of a new product and new technology must take place in a synchronised way and should take into account the value for the buyer. Moreover, it should not be forgotten that the relationship between the product, technology and the environment is essential in an attempt to reach a state of a sustainable enterprise.
Size and ownership of enterprise and innovation activities of food and beverages manufacturers in western Poland in 2009-2012 / Wielkość i charakter własności przedsiębiorstwa a działalność innowacyjna przedsiębiorstw sektora spożywczego w zachodniej Polsce w latach 2009-2012
Authors: Dzikowski Piotr
Published: May 2018

The paper presents the results of a study aimed at determining the nature of relations between innovation activities and company size and company’s ownership in the food and beverage sector in western Poland in 2009-2012. The most innovation active enterprises are medium-sized companies, which are also the only group which leads innovation cooperation with its suppliers and customers. Among the most frequently taken innovation activities are: the implementation of new technological processes, investments in new fixed assets including computer software and investments in R & D. The least innovation active firms are domestic micro and small enterprises.
Relation between the level of educational infrastructure development and enterprises development in the region / Zależność między poziomem rozwoju infrastruktury oświatowej i rozwojem przedsiębiorstw w regionie
Authors: Malinowski Mariusz
Published: May 2018

The aim of this article is to define the relation between educational infrastructure of individual regions as well as enterprises development. In the first part of article an educational environments were characterized and described as a development factor of enterprises. In the second part, based on statistical data the relations were examined between educational environment and enterprises development state in individual provinces in 2007- 2011 years.
Determinants of consumer purchasing behaviour / Uwarunkowania zachowań nabywczych konsumentów w świetle teorii zachowań konsumentów
Authors: Roszkowska-Hołysz Dorota
Published: May 2018

This article presents some considerations on chosen determinants of the consumer purchasing behaviour. The consumer purchasing behaviour is affected by different factors associated with living in a society, an organized community as well as factors of personal nature, which can be grouped into collective categories. Psychological, sociocultural, economic and demographic determinants were presented. An attempt to identify interrelationships amongst groups of factors as well as internal relations within the group was made.

Purchasing behaviours are subject of interest to social sciences. Their presence in the determined form and their intensity are the resultant of influencing the consumer with factor of the psychological, demographic, economic and sociocultural nature. Factors from different groups also interact with each other, strengthening or weakening the power of influence. Determinants of consumer purchasing behavior described at a group of general issues and complex. They do not apply directly to specific events in a specific time and place. However, they are derived from the conclusions of different studies. They are important in economic theory, as it allows to generalize the different stimuli, indicating their common properties. To understood them good, it is necessary to show their full sizes.

To analyze the factors influencing consumer purchasing behavior at the selected level of economic phenomena, in relation to a particular buyer’s market, it is necessary to “translate” them into observable in real economic life events. Added context will manifest full cognitive value of reported factors.
Online shopping in the opinion of young consumers / Zakupy w Internecie w opinii młodych konsumentów
Authors: Barska Anetta
Published: May 2018

Analysis of the statistical data indicates that 52% of people in Poland use the Internet on a regular basis - at least once a week - and the greatest activity is displayed by young people at the age of 16- 24 years - 91% of the whole. The income from e-commerce clearly increases year by year and its further dynamic growth is expected. The Internet contributed to changes in spending behavior of the consumers. The knowledge of them may play a very important role in developing e-strategy which might help to build up lasting competitive advantage. In the following study the author presents the results of her own survey concerning purchasing behaviors of young consumers and presents their possible implications
Agriculture and rural areas in Poland in the light of budgetary expenditures I and II pillar of the CAP in the long period. The attempt to compare / Rolnictwo i obszary wiejskie w Polsce w świetle wydatków budżetowych I i II filaru WPR w długim okresie. Próba porównania
Authors: Czyżewski Andrzej , Matuszczak Anna
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this article is to assess budgetary spending targeted agriculture (first pillar) and rural areas (the second pillar) of the CAP in Poland in the long period. there was compared the structures of the EU budget spending and the national for the first and second pillar of the CAP in passing the 2007-2013 financial perspective and was assessed whether there is a convergence pattern of the aid. It shows the differences between the proportions of European and domestic spending for the objectives of the CAP implemented in Poland. Also was identified the existence of convergence between the level of spending for certain titles financed from the national budget and EU.
Value Engineering Applications For Managing Sustainable Intermodal Transportation Infrastructure Assets
Authors: Uddin Waheed
Published: May 2018

Frequent gridlocks and traffic jams during the periods of rush hours can result in long user delays and more vehicle emissions causing continuous degradation of air quality. The builtinfrastructure of densely populated cities and intercity travel by passenger and freight traffic lead to significant adverse impacts of traffic congestion on air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and global warming. Transportation contributes 28% of energy related greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. This paper shows that traffic related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are higher per capita for several rural and smaller cities compared to large urban areas in the United States. Inadequate use of mass transit, urban sprawl, construction of more roads and traditional stop-controlled intersections, and addition of more lanes to increase traffic capacity and ease congestion, are primary causes of significant vehicle emission inventory of CO2 and air quality degradation. It is shown that sustainable traffic management policies, such as reduction of work-related travel by cars and more use of mass transit modes, can decrease CO2 emissions. Case studies of value engineering applications are presented to select cost-effective less polluting mass transport strategies based on economic evaluation of life cycle costs and benefits.
Usage of I++ Simulator to Program Coordinate Measuring Machines when Common Programming Methods are difficult to apply
Authors: Gąska A. , Szewczyk D. , Gąska P. , Gruza M. , Sładek J.
Published: May 2018

Nowadays, simulators facilitate tasks performed daily by the engineers of different branches, including coordinate metrologists. Sometimes it is difficult or almost impossible to program a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) using standard methods. This happens, for example, during measurements of nano elements or in cases when measurements are performed on high-precision (accurate) measuring machines which work in strictly air-conditioned spaces and the presence of the operator in such room during the programming of CMM could cause an increase in temperature, which in turn could make it necessary to wait some time until conditions stabilize. This article describes functioning of a simulator and its usage during Coordinate Measuring Machine programming in the latter situation. Article also describes a general process of programming CMMs which ensures the correct machine performance after starting the program on a real machine. As an example proving the presented considerations, measurement of exemplary workpiece, which was performed on the machine working in the strictly air-conditioned room, was described
Non-destructive Dielectric Measurements and Calibration for Thin Materials Using Waveguide-Coaxial Adaptors
Authors: You K. Y. , Abbas Z. , Malek M. F. A. , Cheng E. M.
Published: May 2018

This paper focuses on the calibration of apertures for rectangular waveguides using open-short-load (OSL) standards and transmission-line (TL) approaches. The reflection coefficients that were measured using both calibration techniques were compared with the coefficients acquired using the thru-reflect-line (TRL) method. In this study, analogous relationships between the results of OSL calibration and TL calibration were identified. In the OSL calibration method, the theoretical, open-standard values are calculated from quasi-static integral models. The proposed TL calibration procedure is a simple, rapid, broadband approach, and its results were validated by using the OSL calibration method and by comparing the results with the calculated integral admittance. The quasi-static integral models were used to convert the measured reflection coefficients to relative permittivities for the infinite samples and the thin, finite samples
Interferometer -based Technology for Optical Nanoscale Inspection
Authors: Ryabko M. , Koptyaev S. , Shcherbakov A. , Lantsov A.
Published: May 2018

We demonstrate the interferometer-based approach for nanoscale grating Critical Dimension (CD) measurements and prove the possibility to achieve no worse than 10 nm accuracy of measurements for 100 nm pitch gratings. The approach is based on phase shift measurement of light fields specularly reflected from periodical pattern and adjacent substrate with subsequent comparison between experimental and simulation results. RCWA algorithm is used to fit the measured results and extract the CD value. It is shown that accuracy of CD value measurement depends rather on the grating’s CD/pitch ratio than its CD value
Investigations of Thermocouple Drift Irregularity Impact on Error of their Inhomogeneity Correction
Authors: Jun Su , Kochan Orest
Published: May 2018

The article examines: (i) the reasons of error due to thermoelectric inhomogeneity of electrodes of thermocouples acquired during prolonged use; (ii) the neural network method of error correction based on a generalization of verification results in several temperature fields; (iii) the method of investigating the impact of changing the speed of the conversion characteristic drift of thermocouple on error correction; (iv) results of this investigation. It is shown that residual error for type K thermocouples at the 5 % level of significance does not exceed μ±0.46 oС and one at the 10 % level of significance does not exceed ±0.25 °С
CMF Signal Processing Method Based on Feedback Corrected ANF and Hilbert Transformation
Authors: Tu Yaqing , Yang Huiyue , Zhang Haitao , Liu Xiangyu
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we focus on CMF signal processing and aim to resolve the problems of precision sharp-decline occurrence when using adaptive notch filters (ANFs) for tracking the signal frequency for a long time and phase difference calculation depending on frequency by the sliding Goertzel algorithm (SGA) or the recursive DTFT algorithm with negative frequency contribution. A novel method is proposed based on feedback corrected ANF and Hilbert transformation. We design an index to evaluate whether the ANF loses the signal frequency or not, according to the correlation between the output and input signals. If the signal frequency is lost, the ANF parameters will be adjusted duly. At the same time, singular value decomposition (SVD) algorithm is introduced to reduce noise. And then, phase difference between the two signals is detected through trigonometry and Hilbert transformation. With the frequency and phase difference obtained, time interval of the two signals is calculated. Accordingly, the mass flow rate is derived. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed method always preserves a constant high precision of frequency tracking and a better performance of phase difference measurement compared with the SGA or the recursive DTFT algorithm with negative frequency contribution
THE THEOLOGICAL CONTROVERSY BETWEEN EUNOMIUS AND BASIL THE GREAT: A PHILOSOPHICAL APPROACH
Authors: Terezis Christos , Panagopoulos Spyros P.
Published: May 2018

In this paper we examine an aspect of the conflict between Eunomius of Cyzicus and Basil the Great, as it referred to supreme dogmatic matters, such as the relationships between the Persons of the Holy Trinity. This theological rupture appears in a period, during which Christian doctrines are composed at advanced levels of maturity, also with the development among other things of impressive leaps toward which had been attempted by Origen, who was basically also the founder of Christian Hermeneutics. We refer to the basic concept of the conflict, namely the epinoia, and we set it off through the ontological-epistemological knowledge-contrast of realism-idealism. Our research programme is based in part on the historical element, par excellence on the systematic. As to the specific object of analysis, our report will be limited to an outline text of Basil of Caesarea and our aim will be to draw it out in its full development, from one expression to the next. This is the sixth chapter of the first book from the treatise Against Eunomius.
Macro and Trace Elements in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Breeds in Latvia Depending on Variety, Environment, and Agricultural Practice
Authors: Jākobsone Ida , Zute Sanita , Bleidere Māra , Kantāne Ināra , Bartkevičs Vadims
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to determine concentrations of 13 macro and trace elements in different barley genotypes depending on the year of growth (2011, 2012, and 2013) and agricultural practice (conventional/organic). Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, and Al concentrations were determined by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry and K, Na, Zn, Cu, Ca, Mg, Mn, and Fe concentrations by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Statistically different concentrations of Cr, Cu, and Zn occurred among genotypes; for Ca, Mn, and Fe concentrations between barley grains, grown conventionally and organically; for Cr and Ni concentrations between hulled and hull-less grain and for Cd, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Al, K, and Na concentrations among the study years. Concentrations of potentially hazardous elements were low (Cd < 0.005–0.027, Pb 0.013–0.066, Cr 0.111–0.327, Ni 0.161–1.264, Cu 2.8–4.7 and Al 1.62–6.09 mg·kg−1). Barley products can provide necessary macro and trace elements, especially of Mn, Mg, Fe, and Zn (7.8–16.1; 1024–1249; 29.2–52.9, and 20.5–33.7 mg·kg−1, respectively).
Assimilation of Selenium, Copper, and Zinc in Rye Malt
Authors: Antoņenko Kristīna , Briede Linda , Kreicbergs Viesturs , Vīksna Arturs , Bavrins Konstantins
Published: May 2018

Trace elements selenium, copper, and zinc are essential minerals for the human body. One of the means to increase the micronutrient content in diets is to add them to food raw materials, for example, to enrich grain with micronutrients during malt production. To obtain rye malt, 3 kg grain was soaked in 10 l water with addition of three mineral salts — sodium selenate (Na2SeO4), copper sulphate (CuSO4 5H2O), and zinc sulphate (ZnSO4 7H2O) at different concentrations and different combination of salts. The concentration of selenium, copper, and zinc was determined in rye malt. The obtained results were used to calculate the degree of assimilation of trace elements in rye malt. The interaction of trace elements selenium/copper and copper/zinc was studied. The total amount of selenium, copper, and zinc was analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Sample preparation for elemental analysis was performed by wet acid digestion in a closed microwave mineralisation system. The selenium assimilation degree in rye malt was within 10.6 to 12.2%. Accordingly, copper assimilation was 32.8 to 38.0% and zinc 49.3 to 57.0%. Simultaneous presence of selenium/copper and copper/zinc during rye grain soaking promoted the assimilation of each mineral, compared with only one mineral additive.
Variation in β-Glucan, Protein and Fat Concentration of Oats Created in Latvia
Authors: Šterna Vita , Zute Sanita , Vicupe Zaiga
Published: May 2018

Consumption of dietary fibre has potential in improving nutrition and health. For further breeding of oats, it is necessary to increase knowledge on variation in the content of fibre and bioactive components in oats. Therefore, the aim of the present investigation was to study the extent of variation in β-glucan concentration of oats grown in Latvia and to evaluate association of β-glucan concentration with protein and fat concentration in newly created oat breeding lines. In 2015 and 2016, concentration of protein, fat, and β-glucan in grain of hulled oat varieties ‘Laima’, ‘Peppi’, and ten breeding lines was determined. The obtained results showed a wide range of fat concentration among varieties, with a range from 5.9 to 8.3%. The concentration of β-glucan ranged from 1.8 to 3.6% depending on the year. The β-glucan concentration had medium close positive correlation with lipid and weak significant positive correlation with protein concentration, which significantly differed among genotypes.
Effect of High-Pressure Processing on Microbial Quality of Skimmed Milk
Authors: Liepa Marika , Zagorska Jelena , Galoburda Ruta , Kostascuka Svetlana
Published: May 2018

High pressure processing (HPP) is an alternative to traditional thermal treatment and can be used in the dairy industry for increasing the microbiological safety of milk and for preserving its biologically active substances. HPP effectiveness in providing microbiological quality of product is still under discussion; thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of HPP technology on microbiological quality of skimmed milk. Raw, pasteurised (78 °C, 15–20 s), HPP treated (250 MPa, 15 min; 400 MPa, 3 min; 400 MPa, 15 min; 550 MPa, 3 min) and skimmed milk, processed by combining pasteurisation and HPP were analysed and compared. The total plate count (LVS ISO 4833-1:2013) and presence of coliforms (LVS EN ISO 16654:2002) were determined in analysed skimmed milk samples. Significant decrease (p < 0.05) of colony forming units (CFU) was observed in samples processed by combining two treatment types: pasteurisation and HPP. The minimum treatment parameters for shelf-life extension of skimmed milk were determined: pressure not less than 400 MPa and holding time at least 15 minutes.
Comparative Study of Dark Beer Before and After Freeze Drying Rehydration Cycle
Authors: Cinkmanis Ingmārs , Gailums Guntis , Vucāne Sanita
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to compare dark beer before and after a freeze drying rehydration cycle. The pH, colour, and concentrations of extract, organic acids, and phenolic compounds were determined. Dark beer before and after freeze drying was analysed using standard brewing analysis methods of the Mitteleuropäische Brautechnische Analysenkommision (MEBAK) and two types of chromatography: high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Increase of pH was not observed in dark beer after freeze drying. Dissolved powdered beer in deionised water was clear, dark brown, without sediments, and reproduced the original commercially available dark beer, with original extract substance content 8.88%. Concentrations of the following organic acids were determined: oxalic, tartaric, quinic, malic, ascorbic, lactic, acetic, citric, fumaric, and succinic. Volatile compounds by GC/MS analysis were isolated from dark beer before and after freeze drying.
Mission and Limitations. Back to the Origins of Lutheran-Orthodox Contacts in the 16th Century
Authors: Plajer Dietmar
Published: May 2018

The Reformation in Transylvania, Lutheran in structure, has been from its very beginning in direct contact with representatives of the Orthodox Church. An Orthodox clergyman, Philippus Pictor (Filip Moldoveanul), had worked for decades in Hermannstadt in the service of the magistrate, with tasks – among other responsibilities – in the printing house; it was probably during his activity in office that the (now lost) Romanian catechism of 1544, the church-slavonic and the bilingual (Slavonic-Romanian) gospels were printed. There are good reasons to assume that these prints were made directly by the initiative of the city council; but this was not an attempt at the conversion of Romanians to the Evangelical faith, but rather an exercise of the duty – emerging from Luther’s theology – to make possible for all people the access to Scripture.