bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bending Behavior and Electrical Conductivity of Cu/Ni/Al/Ni/Cu Clad Composite
Authors: Kim Hyung Jin , Hong Sun Ig
Published: November 2017

In this study, electro nickel coating was applied and its effect on the electrical conductivity and mechanical properties was investigated in Cu/Ni/Al/Ni/Cu clad composite after annealing at various temperature. After annealing at 300OC for 3hrs, the interface reaction layer at the Cu/Al interface was observed to be 3μm and no reaction layer was observed at the Ni/Al interface. After annealing above 400OC for 3hrs, the interface reaction layer at the Cu/Al interface in the absence of Ni layer was observed to grow more rapidly with increase of annealing temperature compared to that at the Ni/Al interface. The electrical conductivity increased after annealing up to 300OC for 3 hrs. possibly because of enhanced interface bonding and the recovery in the matrix. However, it was deteriorated after annealing above 400OC for 3 hrs. because of the formation of interface intermetallic. The more localized bending in the as-roll-bonded clad composite and that annealed at 200°C can be attributed to the near-zero and negative hardening rate in bending over the whole displacement. In this case, once bending occurs, bending continue to occur in the localized region because the work hardening due to the localized bending is negligible, leading to the localized fracture.
Preparation of Copper-Doped Nickel Oxide Thin Films by Sol-Gel Method Using Nickel and Copper Acetate
Authors: Ehara Takashi , Sasaki Kohei , Abe Marina , Nakanishi Takayoshi
Published: November 2017

We have prepared nondoped and Cu-doped NiO thin films by sol-gel method on SiO2 substrate using nickel acetate and copper acetate as precursors. Thin films of NiO were formed by thermal annealing of gel films at 500 - 900°C for 10 h in air. X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks of NiO have been observed at higher annealing temperature than 500°C, and intensity of the peaks increased with annealing temperature until 800°C. On the other hand, the dependency of XRD signal intensity on annealing temperature becomes less significant by Cu-doping. Nondoped NiO films show high transparency at lower annealing temperatures than 800°C. The result means that the film with high crystalline volume ratio is not consistent with the films with high transparency. Cu-doping decreases the transmittance of the films with low crystalline volume ratio. It is considered that the doped Cu atoms exist in amorphous fraction make the transmittance lower. Conductivity of the films is increased with Cu-doping only in the films annealed at 500 - 700°C. The highest conductivity obtained in the Cu-doped film is around 10-6 W-1cm-1 at 600°C. On the other hand, the Cu-doped films show similar conductivity to nondoped films at high annealing temperature, 800 or 900°C.
Development of an Optimal Heat Treatment Regime for a Gradient Material Containing Tungsten Carbide
Authors: Chumanov Ilia V. , Anikeev A.N.
Published: November 2017

One of the main processes in metal products is heat treatment. However, existing regimes of heat treatment are not suitable for the new gradient metals. This article presents a method of obtaining gradient metallic materials and heat treatment development. Also presents the studies results of heat treatment effect on mechanical properties and metal structure.
Performance Comparison of Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Korody Jagannath , Dinesha P.
Published: November 2017

To use solar energy effectively and as a standalone source, the performance of thermal energy storage device is crucial. The quantity and quality of energy stored using these devices play an important role in the efficient operation of thermal engineering equipment in the area of Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Refrigeration and many other. The selection of storage system depends mainly on application considering quality of energy and cost of storage. Phase change materials (PCM) have played a vital role in the storage of thermal energy in various applications. Out of the various types of phase change materials, organic compounds have a distinct advantage of high latent heat per unit volume, high thermal conductivity, non-flammability and low cost compared to inorganic compounds. The present study compares the performance of two of the most commonly used phase change materials like Paraffin wax and Fatty acids which are organic. They are highly chemically stable, melt congruently and super-cooling does not pose as a significant problem. Moreover, they have been found to be compatible with various kinds of materials of common use. The various performance parameters like temperature variation during charging and discharging, heat absorbed and rejected and overall system efficiency are evaluated for these two materials and also for the combination of these two materials. From the experimental results it is concluded that fatty acids show better performance characteristics than paraffin wax under the same operating conditions. Combination of the two PCM does not give much advantage in terms of operating efficiency.
The Effect of High Temperature Exposure on Properties of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced UHPC
Authors: Fořt Jan , Čítek David , Pavlíková Milena , Pavlík Zbyšek
Published: November 2017

High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (HPFRC) became very popular material for its high mechanical strength, elastic modulus and corrosion resistance. However, also its high-temperature resistance is of a particular importance because of the fire safety. Therefore, the effect of high-temperature exposure on UHPC reinforced by combination of steel and PVA fibers was studied in the paper. PVA fibers were used to moderate concrete damage induced by water vapor evaporation from dense UHPC matrix. The UHPFRC samples were exposed to the temperatures of 200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C, 800 °C, and 1 000 °C respectively. Concrete structural changes induced by high temperature action were described by the measurement of basic physical and mechanical properties. The realized experiments provide information on the changes of concrete porosity and loss of mechanical resistivity.
Properties of Foamed Lightweight Material Produced Using Blended Cement-Limestone Powder
Authors: Huynh Trong Phuoc , Hwang Chao Lung
Published: November 2017

The present study aims to investigate the engineering properties of foam lightweight material (FLM) that was produced using a mixture of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and limestone powder (LP). The FLM samples were prepared with various proportions of LP (10%, 20%, and 30%) and different percentages of foam (9%, 12%, and 15%). Properties of the FLM were evaluated through the values of compressive strength, dry density, porosity, and thermal conductivity. Test results show that the foam contents affected all properties of the FLM significantly, whereas LP contents showed the insignificant effect to the FLM properties. Furthermore, the results of the present study showed a close correlation between porosity and other properties of the FLM as higher porosity resulted in lower density and thus lower thermal conductivity and mechanical strength.
The Effect of Cutting Speed and Feed Rate on Surface Roughness and Tool Wear when Machining Machining D2 Steel
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd Rasidi , Sreedharan Tharmaraj , Fadhlul Hadi Nurul Aisyah , Mustapa Mohammad Sukri , Ismail Al Emran , Hassan Mohd Fahrul , Tajul Arifin Ahmad Mubarak
Published: November 2017

Machining parameters is a main aspect in performing turning operations using lathe machines. Cutting parameters such as cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut gives big influence on the dynamic behavior of the machining system. In machining parts, surface quality and tool wear are the most crucial customer requirements. This is because the major indication of surface quality on machined part is the surface roughness and the value of tool wear. Hence, to improve the surface roughness and minimize the forming of tool wear, the optimum feed rate and cutting speed will be determined. The input parameter such as cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut always influence the tool wear, surface roughness, cutting force, cutting temperature, tool life and dimensional accuracy. The D2 steel was being investigated from the perspective of the effect of cutting speed and feed rate on its surface roughness and tool wear. The results show that cutting speed is the main parameter which affects the surface roughness where the most optimum parameter would be at cutting speed of 173, 231 and 288 m/min with feed rate of 0.15 mm/rev. The tool wear strongly affected by feed rate where at 0.15 mm/rev the tool wear value is the lowest. The combination of high cutting speed and low feed rate was the best parameter to achieve smooth surface roughness.
Vergifnisonderwys: Die sleutel tot die ontlonting van ongelukkigheid oor sosiale onreg
Authors: Van der Walt Johannes L.
Published: November 2017

Forgiveness education: The key to the dissipation of misery due to social injustice. Personal and global conditions have recently highlighted the importance for individuals and communities to be able to forgive other individuals and communities for a variety of transgressions. Social injustice has often been perpetrated also in educational context as can be illustrated with reference to South Africa, the Baltic and the Balkan where these countries are still struggling today with the heritages of respectively their apartheid and communist past. History abounds with such incidences. Although some people and communities are able to spontaneously and intuitively forgive those who have inflicted social injustice upon them, most of us do not possess a complete grasp of what it means to forgive, what the fruits of a forgiving attitude could be or what the results of a non-forgiving attitude might be. In view of this, it has become necessary to resort to education (e.g. in the shape of citizenship education) to teach young people (how) to forgive and thereby helping them contribute to a peaceful democratic society. The article concludes with a Scriptural view of forgiveness and forgiveness education.
Advances in Discovering the Interrelationship between Mental Disorders and Heart Diseases
Authors: Yin Han , Geng Qingshan
Published: November 2017

In clinical practise physical illnesses are often accompanied by mental abnormality. Actually due to the development of our modern medical system, the underlying mental abnormality has been increasingly discovered, which in turn not only surprises researchers with the unexpected high morbidity, but also arouse the intense debate whether there is an interaction between mental disorders and physical illnesses. The attempt trying to figure out the mystery of mind and body can date back to the ancient time. It was not until 1818, the German psychiatrist Heinroth proposed the concept of mind-body disease for the first time. Later, William Osler successfully proved the close interaction between coronary heart disease and mental illness by dissecting cadaver of a patient with “angina” finding the coronary perfectly healthy. Owing to the importance of the cardiovascular system and the high sensitivity to the autonomic nervous system which is strongly influenced by the emotion, the intersection of cardiology and psychology gradually became the central issue in studying the physical and mental illness and eventually formed a new branch called “psycho-cardiology”.
Fusión de Imágenes Multi-Foco con Ventanas Variables
Authors: Calderon Felix , Garnica-Carrillo Adan , Flores Juan J.
Published: November 2017

En este artículo presentamos el Algoritmo Combinación Lineal de Imágenes con Ventanas Variables (CLI-VV) para la fusión de imágenes multi-foco. A diferencia del Algoritmo CLI-S presentado en un trabajo anterior, el algoritmo CLI-VV permite determinar automáticamente el tamaño óptimo de la ventana en cada píxel para la segmentación de las regiones con la mayor nitidez. También presentamos la generalizado el Algoritmo CLI-VV para la fusión de conjuntos de imágenes multi-foco con más de dos imágenes. A este nuevo algoritmo lo denominamos Fusión Multi-foco con Ventanas Variables (FM-VV). El Algoritmo CLI-VV se probó con 21 pares de imágenes sintéticas y 29 pares de imágenes multi-foco reales, y el Algoritmo FM-VV sobre 5 tríos de imágenes multi-foco. En todos los ejemplos se obtuvo un porcentaje de acierto competitivos, producidos en tiempos de ejecución menores a los reportados en la literatura.
In situ measurements of angular dependent light scattering by
aerosols over the contiguous United States
Authors: Espinosa W. Reed , Martins J. Vanderlei , Remer Lorraine A. , Puthukkudy Anin , Orozco Daniel , Dolgos Gergely
Published: November 2017

Abstract. This work provides a synopsis of aerosol phase function (F11) and polarized phase function (−F12/F11) measurements made by the Polarized Imaging Nephelometer (PI-Neph) during the Studies of Emissions and Atmospheric Composition, Clouds and Climate Coupling by Regional Surveys (SEAC4RS) and the Deep Convection Clouds and Chemistry (DC3) field campaigns. In order to more easily explore this extensive dataset, an aerosol classification scheme is developed that identifies the different aerosol types measured during the deployments. This scheme makes use of ancillary data that includes trace gases, chemical composition, aerodynamic particle size and geographic location, all independent of PI-Neph measurements. The PI-Neph measurements are then grouped according to their ancillary data classifications and the resulting scattering patterns are examined in detail. These results represent the first published airborne measurements of F11 and −F12/F11 for many common aerosol types. We then explore whether PI-Neph light-scattering measurements alone are sufficient to reconstruct the results of this ancillary data classification algorithm. Principal component analysis (PCA) is used to reduce the dimensionality of the multi-angle PI-Neph scattering data and the individual measurements are examined as a function of ancillary data classification. Clear clustering is observed in the PCA score space, corresponding to the ancillary classification results, suggesting that indeed a strong link exists between the angular scattering measurements and the aerosol type or composition. Two techniques are used to quantify the degree of clustering and it is found that in most case the results of the ancillary data classification can be predicted from PI-Neph measurements alone with better than 85 % recall. This result both emphasizes the validity of the ancillary data classification as well as the PI-Neph's ability to distinguish common aerosol types without additional information.
RECENT RESULTS OF THE FIREBIRD MISSION
Authors: Lorenz E. , Halle W. , Fischer C. , Mettig N. , Klein D.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Two years ago the German Aerospace Center (DLR) reported on the ISRSE36 in Berlin about the FireBird Mission (Lorenz, 2015). FireBird is a constellation of two small satellites equipped with a unique Bi- Spectral Infrared Instrument. Whereas this instrumentation is mainly dedicated to the investigation of high temperature events a much wider application field was meanwhile examined. The first of these satellites – TET-1 – was launched on July 22nd 2012. On the ISRSE36 could be presented the results of two years of operation. The second satellite – BIROS – was launched on June 22nd 2016. The outstanding feature of the Infrared Instruments is their higher ground sampling resolution and dynamic range compared to systems such as MODIS. This allows the detection of smaller fire events and improves the quality of the quantitative analysis. The detailed analysis of the large number of data sets acquired by TET in the last two years caused significant methodically improvements in the data processing. Whereas BIROS has the same instrumentation as TET a number of additional technological features implemented in the satellite bus expand the application field of the instruments remarkably. New High-Torque-Wheels will allow new scanning modes and generating with this new data products to be discussed. A Giga Bit Laser downlink terminal will enable near real time downlinks of large data volumes reducing the response time to disaster events. With an advanced on board processing unit, it is possible to reduce the data stream to a dedicated list of desired parameters to be sent to users by an OrbCom modem. This technology can serve such Online Information Portals like the Advanced Fire Information System (AFIS) in South Africa. The paper will focus on these new items of the FireBird mission.
GEOSPATIAL APPROACH FOR DELINEATING EXTRAPOLATION DOMAINS FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL INTENSIFICATION TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Muthoni F. K. , Baijukya F. , Sseguya H. , Bekunda M. , Hoeschle-Zeledon I. , Ouko E. , Mubea K.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Sustainable intensification (SI) is a viable pathway to increase agricultural production and improve ecosystem health. Scaling SI technologies in locations with similar biophysical conditions enhance adoption. This paper employs novel extrapolation detection (ExeDet) algorithm and gridded bioclimatic layers to delineate extrapolation domains for improved maize variety (SC719) and inorganic fertilizers (YaraMila-CEREAL® and YaraBela-Sulfan®) in Tanzania. Suitability was based on grain yields recorded in on-farm trials. The ExeDet algorithm generated three maps: (1) the dissimilarity between bioclimatic conditions in the reference trial sites and the target extrapolation domain (Novelty type-1), (2) the magnitude of novel correlations between covariates in extrapolation domain (Novelty type-2) and (3) the most limiting covariate. The novelty type1 and 2 maps were intersected and reclassified into five suitability classes. These classes were cross-tabulated to generate extrapolation suitability index (ESI) for the candidate technology package. An impact based spatial targeting index (IBSTI) was used to identify areas within the zones earmarked as suitable using ESI where the potential impacts for out scaling interventions can be maximized. Application of ESI and IBSTI is expected to guide extension and development agencies to prioritize scaling intervention based on both biophysical suitability and potential impact of particular technology package. Annual precipitation was most limiting factor in largest area of the extrapolation domain. Identification of the spatial distribution of the limiting factor is useful for recommending remedial measures to address the limiting factor that hinder a technology to achieve its full potential. The method outlined in this paper is replicable to other technologies that require extrapolation provided that representative reference trial data and appropriate biophysical grids are available.
QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL OF OUTPUTS OF A NATIONWIDE AGRICULTURAL LAND COVER MAPPING PROGRAM USING LIDAR: PHIL-LIDAR 2 PARMAP EXPERIENCE
Authors: Pagkalinawan H. M. , Gatdula N. B. , Jose R. P. , Rollan T. M. , Tañada E. M. , Magtalas S. Y. , Dela Torre D. G. , Dela Cruz P. A. , Aves J. L. , Tan G. D. , Apura R. A. , Dimalanta C. P. , Blanco A. C.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The Agricultural Resources Extraction from LiDAR Surveys (PARMAP) project component of the Nationwide Detailed Resources Assessment using LiDAR (Phil-LiDAR 2) Program aims to produce detailed agricultural maps using LiDAR. Agricultural land cover at crop level was classified through object based image analysis using Support Vector Machine as classifier and LiDAR derivatives from point cloud (2 points per sq.m.) and orthophoto (0.5-meter resolution) as inputs. An accuracy of at least 90 %, assessed using validation points from the field and through image interpretation, was required before proceeding to post-processing and map lay-out. Knowledge sharing and capacity development facilitated by the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) enabled partner universities across the Philippines to produce outputs for their assigned region. Considering output layers were generated by multiple teams working on different landscape complexities with some degree of data quality variability, quality checking is crucial to ensure accuracy standards were met. UPD PARMap devised a centralized and end-to-end scheme divided into four steps – land classification, GIS post-processing, schema application, and map lay-out. At each step, a block is reviewed and, subsequently, either approved or returned with documentation on required revisions. Turnaround time of review is at least one block (area ranging from 10 to 580 sq. km.) per day. For coastal municipalities, an additional integration process to incorporate mapped coastal features was applied. Common problems observed during quality checking include misclassifications, gaps between features, incomplete attributes and missing map elements. Some issues are particular to specific blocks such as problematic LiDAR derivatives. UPD addressed these problems through discussion and mentoring visits to partner universities. As of March 2017, a total of 336 municipal agricultural maps have been turned-over to various stakeholders. For the remaining months of the program, an additional 360 maps are expected to be distributed.
FOG COMPUTING PERSPECTIVES IN CONNECTION WITH THE CURRENT GEOSPATIAL STANDARDS
Authors: Panidi E.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Cloud Computing technologies and cloud-based Geographic Information Systems have became widely used in recent decades. However, the complexity and size of geospatial datasets remains growing and sometimes become going out of the cloud infrastructure paradigm. Additionally, many of currently used client devices have sufficient computational resources to store and process some amounts of data directly. Consequently, multilevel management techniques are demanded that support capabilities of horizontal (client-to-client) data flows in addition to vertical (cloud-to-client) data flows. These tendencies in information technologies (in general) have led to the appearance of Fog Computing paradigm that extends a cloud infrastructure with the computational resources of client devices and implements client-side data storage, management and interchange. This position paper summarizes and discusses mentioned tendencies in connection with a number of available Open Geospatial Consortium standards. The paper highlights the standards, which can be recognized as the platform for the Fog Computing implementation into geospatial domain, and analyzing their strong and weak features from the Fog Computing point of view. The analysis is built upon author’s experience in implementation of the client-side geospatial Web services.
MANAGEMENT EFFECTS ON GROUND COVER CLUMPINESS: SCALING FROM FIELD TO SENTINEL-2 COVER ESTIMATES
Authors: Scarth P. , Trevithick R.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Significant progress has been made in the development of cover data and derived products based on remotely sensed fractional cover information and field data across Australia, and these cover data sets are now used for quantifying and monitoring grazing land condition. The availability of a dense time-series of nearly 30 years of cover data to describe the spatial and temporal patterns in landscape changes over time can help with monitoring the effectiveness of grazing land management practice change. With the advent of higher spatial resolution data, such as that provided by the Copernicus Sentinel 2 series of satellites, we can look beyond reporting purely on cover amount and more closely at the operational monitoring and reporting on spatial arrangement of cover and its links with land condition. We collected high spatial resolution cover transects at 20 cm intervals over the Wambiana grazing trials in the Burdekin catchment in Queensland, Australia. Spatial variance analysis was used to determine the cover autocorrelation at various support intervals. Coincident Sentinel-2 imagery was collected and processed over all the sites providing imagery to link with the field data. We show that the spatial arrangement and temporal dynamics of cover are important indicators of grazing land condition for both productivity and water quality outcomes. The metrics and products derived from this research will assist land managers to prioritize investment and practice change strategies for long term sustainability and improved water quality, particularly in the Great Barrier Reef catchments.
A new methodology to identify minimum strain anatomical lines based on 3-D digital image correlation
Authors: Barrios-Muriel Jorge , Alonso Sánchez Francisco Javier , Salgado David Rodríguez , Romero-Sánchez Francisco
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Today there is continuous development of wearable devices in various fields such as sportswear, orthotics and personal gadgets, among others. The design of these devices involves the human body as a support environment. Based on this premise, the development of wearable devices requires an improved understanding of the skin strain field of the body segment during human motion. This paper presents a methodology based on a three dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) system to measure the skin strain field and to estimate anatomical lines with minimum deformation as design criteria for the aforementioned wearable devices. The errors of displacement and strain measurement related to 3-D reconstruction and out-of-plane motion are investigated and the results are acceptable in the case of large deformation. This approach can be an effective tool to improve the design of wearable devices in the clinical orthopaedics and ergonomics fields, where comfort plays a key role in supporting the rehabilitation process.
Nuevas localidades de flora vascular amenazada en Galicia (NO ibérico)
Authors: González-Martínez X. Ignacio
Published: November 2017

En este trabajo se aporta información de diverso interés sobre 6 taxones de flora vascular amenazada [Chaetopogon fasciculatus subsp. postratus (Hack. & Lange) M. Laínz, Narcissus minor L. subsp. asturiensis (Jord.) Barra & G. López, Ranunculus bupleuroides Brot. subsp. bupleuroides, Schoenoplectus pungens (Vahl) Palla, Succisa pinnatifida Lange)] recolectados fundamentalmente en el SO de la provincia de A Coruña. Todos los pliegos testigo se hallan depositados en el Herbario SANT.
Perceived Impact of Supplementary Private Tutoring on Students: the case of Upper Primary School Students
Authors: Tarekegne Wudu Melese , Kebede Mekuria Abebe
Published: November 2017

This study was aimed at assessing the perceived impact of supplementary private tutoring on upper primary school students of Ethiopia. To achieve this objective a cross-sectional survey research design was employed. Accordingly, four regions and one city administration were selected as sample regions by using simple random sampling method. Again from each region the capital town of each sample regions was selected as sample towns through purposive sampling technique. Then from each sample town three government and three private schools were selected by simple random sampling technique. Consequently, from each selected sample schools 50 percent of the students and all the teachers and the principal of the school were taken by purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected from sample students, teachers, and principals through the use of questionnaires, interview, and focus group discussion. The result reveals that the amount of money they pay is relatively big in Ethiopian context so that it is a burden for the family. On the other hand, supplementary private tutoring helps students understanding of the subject matter, provide different support and increase the self-confidence of the students, and improve students’ achievement result. Moreover, supplementary private tutoring did not consume students’ spare time, not result in social stigma of students, it is not boring, it did not requires much and extra effort, the work they do with their tutors is the same activity as they do in school and it did not confuse them.
Implementing Indigenous Knowledge in Western Science Education Systems and Scientific Research on Alaska’s North Slope
Authors: Nicholas-Figueroa Linda , Wall Daniel , Muelken Mary Van , Duffy Lawrence
Published: November 2017

The inclusion of Indigenous knowledge, informal lessons, and place-based instruction in science curricula has shown many positive results in both the classroom and laboratory. Inviting Alaska Native Elders and researchers into local classrooms to co-instruct scientific concepts has increased student understanding and engagement. Field trips further expose students to research conducted on Alaska’s North Slope underlining the environmental and cultural implications of local community issues and the broader scientific concerns. Teaching students the traditional ways of knowing and the correlating Western science concepts develops an appreciation for both perspectives that directly strengthens students’ knowledge and reinforces cultural values.
Recitation and Tajweed Improvement Strategies within Tafilah Schools’ Students in the Viewpoint of Islamic Education Teachers
Authors: Al-Jazi Abdullah
Published: November 2017

This study aims at exploring Qur’anic recitation and tajweed improvement strategies within school students in Tafilah governorate, Jordan, in the viewpoint of Islamic Education teachers. To achieve this aim a data collection instrument was established: that is a questionnaire distributed to the Islamic Education teachers after validating psychometric characteristics of it. Data analysis results revealed existence of a number of strategies within the sample students, subject of the study. The study also revealed that there was no statistically significant difference in the Qur’anic recitation and tajweed improvement strategies that can be attributed to variables of: the gender or teaching experience.
Out-of-hospital emergency care providers’ work and clinical skills in Finland: A follow-up study
Authors: Mikkola Riitta , Salminen-Tuomaala Mari , Paavilainen Eija , Leikkola Päivi
Published: November 2017

Objective: This follow-up study is part of a larger study on emergency medical services. Its purpose was to describe emergency care providers’ perceptions of their work, its challenges and their clinical competence. The study aimed at producing knowledge of the perceived influence of an educational intervention, to be used in developing emergency care providers’ further and updating education.Methods: Data were collected from staff working in out-of-hospital emergency care of a hospital district in Finland using a questionnaire developed for this purpose. The results were analyzed statistically using SPSS for Windows 24.Results: Over 90% of the respondents found that their work was interesting and provided sufficient challenges. The majority were also interested in continuous professional development. After the educational intervention, respondents found the work somewhat more challenging and slightly more strenuous both physically and mentally compared to the first survey. Respondents more commonly reported that new capacities were required at work and they rated their practical skills lower than in the first survey. However, work in a multiprofessional environment was found less challenging. Over 70% of the respondents planned to have further education in the near future. They rated their clinical skills as good, but slightly lower compared to the first survey.Conclusions: The results regarding work, its challenges and self-rated clinical competence remained the same or were somewhat poorer after the educational intervention. The results help improve the education to meet the needs of emergency staff.
An Empirical Study on the Stock Price Volatility of Small and Medium Enterprise Board in China
Authors: Chi Qishui , Huo Jieyi
Published: November 2017

This article utilizes structural change method to examine the fluctuation characteristics of stock prices of China’s small and medium enterprises. This study indicates that time series of Chinese small and medium-sized enterprises stock prices are not characterized by mean reversion. Therefore, the policy bailouts in the market including the rescue package of the government in June 2015 are ineffective because they are offset by other factors. The long-run growth of stock prices depends on the supply and demand situation in capital market as well as the growth of national economy but has no connection with the policy bailouts.
The Positive Role of Small Businesses in Scaling down the Shadow Economy Phenomenon and Its Negative Impact on the Private Sector and the National Economy: An Exploratory Study in the Province of Jeddah
Authors: Al-Ghamri Nayef
Published: November 2017

The shadow economy phenomenon is widespread and has detrimental effects on the business sector and the national economy. The philosophy of shadow economy involves complex and overlapping perceptions related to conducting legal as well as illegal businesses. The shadow economy is not a new concept but one that has existed since the first known system of tax levies, and that has spread throughout the developed and developing countries of the world in equal measure. Shadow economy is often associated with illegally-gained proceeds (dirty money) originating from unethical and unlawful small businesses such as sexual slavery/exploitation and the drug trade. It is considered as detrimental to national economies and is rapidly spreading globally in the modern era. Weak, poorly designed or implemented controls by some countries, in addition to administrative corruption, have significantly contributed to the emergence and spread of shadow economies. The expanding scale and growth of shadow economies comes in spite of international efforts to enforce laws and regulations on this issue. The phenomenon has continued to spread despite global efforts to create and increase public awareness on the issue and notwithstanding dissemination of information to increase knowledge of the risks arising from this phenomenon and its economic impacts. Based on the severe threats shadow economies constitute and their effects on economic and social order, the subject has been recently included in the syllabus and course design of international as well as Arab universities. Legitimate and illegitimate business owners and individuals engage in shadow economies, whereby they attempt to evade payment of state taxes by benefiting from widely pervasive administrative corruption.
The Influence of Virtual Communities in Marketing Decision
Authors: Granata Giuseppe , Scozzese Giancarlo
Published: November 2017

Purpose – The introduction and growth of the Internet and modern technology has had a strong impact on the structures of companies and led to a change in the decisional processes. In the new economic scenarios, with the growth of social networks and Web 3.0, technologies go through developments and transformations that are of vital importance to ensure the competitiveness of companies.Methodology – The study analyzes the possibility of applying social networks to the new business models, underlining their importance not only with regard to managers but also, and especially, to crowdsourcing processes.Implications – The objective of the study is to focus on the impact that web 3.0 and social networks have on management and marketing decisions, underlining certain processes in order to improve the competitive advantages of companies.
A bi-objective simulation-optimization approach for solving a no-wait two stages flexible flow shop scheduling problem with rework ability
Authors: Rahmanidoust Mohammad
Published: November 2017

The paper suggests a new rule; called no-wait process. The rule has two stages, and is a flexible flow shop scheduling. The process is the subject to maximize tardiness while minimizing the makespan. This hybrid flow shop problem is known to be NP-hard. Therefore, we come to first, Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II), then, Multi-Objective Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (MOICA) and finally, Pareto Archive Evolutionary Strategy (PAES) as three multi-objective Pareto based metaheuristic optimization methods. They are developed to solve the problem to approximately figure out optimal Pareto front. The method is investigated in several problems that differed in size and terms of relative percentage deviation of performance metrics. The conclusion, developed by this method is the most efficient and practicable algorithm at the end.
Effect of Soil Moisture Regimes on Seed Iron and Zinc Concentration of Biofortified Bean Genotypes against Malnutrition in Sud-Kivu Highlands
Authors: Clérisse Casinga Mubasi , Angélique Neema Ciza , Marie-Angélique Kajibwami Cikuru , Leon Nabahungu Nshwarasi , Pierre Mambani Banda
Published: November 2017

This study investigated the influence of three soil moisture irrigation regimes on concentration of seed iron and zinc content of four biofortified bean varieties promoted for eradication of malnutrition in Sud-Kivu highlands. A field experiment was conducted in the Hogola marsh highlands during two cultural seasons B2013 and B2014. The experiment design was a RCBD with a split plot arrangement where the main plots were 110 m2 and split plots 20 m2. A strategic application of homogenisation of the experimental site’s soil fertility by chemical fertilizers of the type: CaCO3, KCl and DAP was conducted out. Four biofortified varieties (CODMLB001, RWR2245, HM21-7 and RWK10) constituted main factor, while water regimes respectively [bottom of the slope: R1 = 48% soil moisture, at the middle of the slope R2 = 37% soil moisture and at the top of the slope: R3 = 29% soil moisture according to the gradient of humidity] represented secondary factor and seasonality, tertiary factor. The study showed that the concentrations of iron and zinc were highly correlated with soil moisture regimes. The variety HM21-7 demonstrated better adaptability because it showed a low rate of reduction of iron and zinc concentration under the three soil moisture regimes and was therefore best suited to fight malnutrition in the Sud-Kivu province.
Photosynthetic Pigments and Photochemical Efficiency in Soursop under Saline Water Irrigation and Nitrogen Sources
Authors: Silva Evandro M. da , Lima Geovani S. de , Gheyi Hans R. , Nobre Reginaldo G. , Sá Francisco Vanies Da Silva , Souza Leandro De Pádua , Soares Lauriane Almeida dos Anjos , Fernandes Pedro Dantas
Published: November 2017

The Studies have shown that nitrogen fertilization can mitigate the effects of saline stress on plants, however, the efficiency may vary according to the source of nitrogen used, specifically on the photosynthetic activity. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of different nitrogen sources on photosynthetic pigments and photochemical efficiency in soursop plants irrigated with distinct salinities. A randomized complete block design was used in a 4 × 4 factorial scheme, with the treatments corresponding to four levels of irrigation water salinity - ECw (0.5, 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 dS m-1) and four sources of nitrogen (urea, ammonium sulfate, calcium nitrate and potassium nitrate), with three replications. The irrigation with saline water from 0.5 dS m-1 inhibits the concentration of photosynthetic pigments and promotes damages in the photochemical efficiency of photosynthesis at 110 days after transplanting. The different sources of nitrogen do not cause changes in the levels of photosynthetic pigments, however, the fertilization with potassium nitrate mitigates the effect of saline stress on the photochemical efficiency, mainly in the water salinity of 3.5 dS m-1.
Fatty Acids Profile of Coffea arabica L. Resistant to Leaf Rust Grown in Two Environments of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Fassio L. O. , Malta M. R. , Carvalho G. R. , Liska G. R. , Lima P. M. , Nadaleti D. H. S. , Fonseca A. J. , Pimenta C. J.
Published: November 2017

The quality of the coffee drink is defined by its sensorial attributes which are developed through the chemical predecessors found on raw grains. Due to this relation, this present work had a goal evaluating the sensorial characteristics of resistant coffee cultivars to leaf rust for the production of specialty coffee and correlate them with the profile of fatty acids present on raw grains, enabling the distinction of cultivars in two environments of Minas Gerais. For this purpose, seven cultivars of Coffea arabica resistance to leaf rust were evaluated and two susceptible cultivars, in two growing environments: Lavras, in the South of Minas Gerais and Patrocínio, in the Cerrado of Minas Gerais. The C16:0, C16:1, C18:0, C18:1, C18:2 w-6, C18:3 w-3 fatty acids common in coffee grains, were identified in the cultivars. The presence of an acid uncommon in coffee grains, the gamma linolenic acid (C18:3 w-6, GLA) was also detected. The palmitic and alpha linolenic fatty acids presented correlation with the sensorial quality of the drink. The linoleic, palmitic, alpha linolenic and gamma linolenic fatty acids were capable to differentiate the Patrocinio and Lavras environments. The profile of the fatty acids permitted differentiate the leaf rust resistant cultivars, the environments as also the interaction between these two matters related to the sensorial quality.
Size of Containers in the Production of Flamboyant Seedlings
Authors: Zuffo Alan Mario , Steiner Fábio , Busch Aécio , Zuffo Júnior Joacir Mario , Fonseca Wéverson Lima , Zambiazzi Everton Vinicius , Mendes Alan Eduardo Seglin , Borges Isabella Maria Monteiro , Godinho Sérgio Hebron Maia , Pinto André Rodrigues Salomão
Published: November 2017

The size of the container can affect the quality of the seedlings and, there is no recommendation of containers for the formation of flamboyant seedlings [Delonix regia (Bojerex Hook.) Raf]. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the production of flamboyant seedlings in different container sizes, besides performing trail analysis to identify the growth variables that characterize the quality of these seedlings. The experimental design was a randomized block design with seven container sizes (13 × 13 cm, 15 × 15 cm, 13 × 20 cm, 15 × 25 cm, 17 × 22 cm, 17 × 30 cm or 30 × 40 cm), with four replicates. Each experimental unit was composed of five containers, totaling 20 containers per treatment. The plant height, stem base diameter, number of leaves and the sturdiness quotient were measured at 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 days after emergence (DAE), and at 100 DAE were also measured the root volume, root dry matter, shoot dry matter, total dry matter, shoot/root dry matter ratio and Dickson quality index (DQI). The flamboyant seedlings have better grow when cultivated in polyethylene bags with size of 30 × 40 cm. The collar diameter, root volume, root dry matter, shoot dry matter and total dry matter are the most adequate variables to indicate the quality of flamboyant seedlings. However, because it is a rapid, simple and non-destructive measurement variable, the root collar diameter is more adequate to identify high-quality flamboyant seedlings.
Application of Gas Chromatography Coupled to Quadrupole-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry for Pesticide Residue Analysis in Cereals and Feed Ingredients
Authors: Tienstra Marc , Mol Hans G J
Published: November 2017

A method for residue analysis of pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls in cereals and feed ingredients based on QuEChERS extraction, programmed temperature vaporizer large-volume injection, and GC with electron ionization (EI) quadrupole Orbitrap full-scan high-resolution MS (60 000 full width at half-maximum at m/z 200) has been developed. In addition to full-scan acquisition, simultaneous full-scan and selected-ion monitoring acquisition was used to improve detectability in incidental cases in which analytes coeluted with intense signals from coextractants. The method was successfully validated down to 10 µg/kg for a single commodity (wheat) using matrix-matched calibration, and for multiple-feed matrixes using standard addition. Identification according to European Union requirements was achieved in >90% of the analyte/matrix combinations, and suggestions for further increasing identification rates have been made. Performance characteristics were compared to an existing method for residue analysis based on GC with EI tandem MS (triple quadrupole).
Coupling Ion Chromatography to Q-Orbitrap for the Fast and Robust Analysis of Anionic Pesticides in Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Rajski Łukasz , Díaz Galiano Francisco José , Cutillas Víctor , Fernández-Alba Amadeo R
Published: November 2017

Ion chromatography coupled to a quadrupole Orbitrap mass analyzer was used to develop a multiresidue method for the determination of highly polar pesticides and their metabolites (chlorate, perchlorate, fosetyl-aluminum, glyphosate, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), phosphonic acid, N-acetyl AMPA, and N-acetyl glyphosate) in fruits and vegetables. After extraction with methanol, samples were diluted 5× with water. No derivatization was applied. Pesticides were separated in an anion-exchange column. Water was used as the ion chromatography mobile phase. A gradient was created by increasing the concentration of KOH in the mobile phase. Ion chromatography provided good and stable retention and separation for all studied compounds. All investigated pesticides had an LOQ of 0.01 mg/kg and a linear range of 0.01–0.50 mg/kg. The ion ratio of the m/z ions produced was stable and adequate (deviation <30%) in all cases. The obtained mass errors (always in full-scan MS and MS2 mode) were <0.2 mDa. The high resolution (>100 000) provided by the Orbitrap analyzer with the low m/z ions obtained (e.g., m/z 80) was effective in obtaining low background matrix signals. The influence of postcolumn infusion of organic solvent on sensitivity was investigated. Acetonitrile was found to be more effective than methanol, increasing the sensitivity 3× with respect to water. The method was validated for five vegetable-based matrixes. Both the sample processing and the analytical measurement were very fast. Hence, the methodology is ideal for high-throughput work.
Pesticide Residue Analysis in Fruit- and Vegetable-Based Baby Foods Using GC-Orbitrap MS
Authors: Lozano Ana , Uclés Samanta , Uclés Ana , Ferrer Carmen , Fernández-Alba Amadeo R
Published: November 2017

This paper presents an efficiency evaluation of GC coupled with quadrupole Orbitrap MS for identification and quantitation in the multiresidue pesticide analysis of baby foods in full-scan mode. The identification criteria were studied following SANTE guidelines (retention time, mass accuracy, and ion ratio), comfortably complying with the values established, even at 0.003 mg/kg. Method validation was carried out on 15 selected GC-amenable pesticides covered by Commission Directive No. 2006/125/EC in three different baby food matrixes. Recovery studies were performed at 0.003 and 0.006 mg/kg, with 96% of the cases falling within the 70–120% range and with RSDs <15% for all the pesticides assayed. Linearity over 3 orders of magnitude was verified, with residuals <16% and correlation coefficient values >0.995. In general, matrix effect values were >100%. The LOQ was 0.003 mg/kg for 97% of the cases. The validated method was applied to 20 real baby food samples from Spain and to the European Union Proficiency Test FV-BF01 sample, in which the z-scores obtained were <1, thus demonstrating that this instrumentation has good quantitation capabilities.