bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS KINERJAKEUANGAN PERBANKAN TERHADAP NILAI PERUSAHAAN DENGAN ROA SEBAGAI VARIABEL INTERVENING
Authors: Hariyani Diyah Santi
Published: April 2018

Purpose this study analyze Financial Performance to firm value with ROA as intervening variable. Quantitative research, with purposive sampling method of banking companies listed on the BEI 2012-2014, which meets the criteria has been selected as a sample of 11 companies. To analyze data by Least Square (PLS) approach. Hypothesis testing in this study using path analysis and sobel test. Results of this research: CAR, NPL, NIM, LDR and BOPO have a significant effect on ROA. CAR, LDR and ROA have a significant positive effect on firm value. NPL, NIM, BOPO have no effect on company value. And ROA is variable able to mediate the influence of CAR, NPL, NIM, LDR and BOPO to firm value.
STUDI EMPIRIS PERILAKU KEPATUHAN PAJAK PADA WAJIB PAJAK ORANG PRIBADI (STUDI PADA KPP PARATAMA PAMEKASAN)
Authors: Furqani Astri , Norsain Norsain
Published: April 2018

Tax compliance issue is a classic problem encountered in almost all the countriesthat apply the taxation system. Ongoing reforms in government taxation which includesthe formulation and manufacture of legislation and improvement of tax administrationthat facilitate services for the taxpayer. The question, after all this time self-assessmentsystem is running, why the level of compliance has not yet reached the optimum level?What drives someone to be obedient and disobedient?This study using convenience sampling method with a sample of 225 respondentsindividual taxpayer listed on STO Pamekasan.The results showed there are significant variable level of education and incomelevel of the Compliance Tax. SPSS test results, that after the simultaneous analysis ofindependent variables significantly influence the dependent variable at the level of 5%(0.05). R Square = 0.154 showed 15% variation Tax Compliance influenced by educationlevel variables and variable rate income and the rest influenced by other factors notknown to include error. With a significance level of 5%, the variable X whichsignificantly affect the Y variable is the variable X1 only to Education for sign value<0.05 while the variable rate income> 0.05
Metodología para la comprensión de la voz del cliente en entornos dinámicos utilizando el despliegue de funciones de calidad (QFD)
Authors: Herrera De la Barrera Jasmin , Narváez Zúñiga Claudio
Published: April 2018

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo definir la estructura para el diseño de una herramienta metodológica que permita incorporar buenas prácticas para la implementación de sistemas de gestión en empresas colombianas, que se adapten a entornos dinámicos, a partir del análisis de la voz del cliente. Para el desarrollo de la propuesta se contó con la participación de un grupo de 30 empresas del sector de la construcción de la ciudad de Cartagena, encargadas de definir los requerimientos y necesidades de sus organizaciones con relación a la ejecución de procesos de implementación de sistemas de gestión. Para el análisis y tratamiento de los datos se utilizó como herramienta la Matriz QFD (Despliegue de la función de calidad), de cuya utilización se logra establecer la propuesta de diseño de una guía metodológica para la implementación de sistemas de gestión en el sector de la construcción, replicable en cualquier otro ramo de la economía colombiana, según se adapte a sus necesidades.
ANALISIS MODEL RASCH PADA INSTRUMEN KEBERTERIMAAN MARKA OPTIK PENANDA JARAK AMAN KENDARAAN
Authors: Napitupulu Darmawan
Published: April 2018

Salah satu penyebab utama terjadinya tabrakan beruntun adalah tidak terjaganya jarak aman antar kendaraan pada kecepatannya. Tidak semua kendaraan bermotor roda empat memiliki alat pengukur jarak aman. Prototipe yang dikembangkan berupa marka berbentuk stiker yang memanfaatkan ketajaman mata (optical acuity) normal pengemudi. Evaluasi keberterimaan pengguna terhadap sistem perlu dilakukan untuk mengetahui tingkat pemanfaatannya di masa mendatang. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengembangkan instrumen keberterimaan pengguna berdasarkan TAM. Metode yang digunakan adalah survei dimana validitas dan reliabilitas instrumen dianalisa dengan model Rasch. Jumlah total respoden adalah 31 orang yang dipilih dengan teknik purposive sampling dengan kriteria responden adalah pengemudi di ruas jalan tol. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa seluruh item dari instrumen telah valid dan reliabel mengacu pada temuan statistik model Rasch, dengan demikian total 15 item dikatakan sesuai untuk mengukur ketiga konstruk dari minat penggunaan terhadap teknologi marka optik penanda jarak aman kendaraan.
STRATEGI OPTIMALISASI PENERIMAAN RETRIBUSI PELAYANAN PARKIR TEPI JALAN UMUM KOTA TANGERANG SELATAN
Authors: Hawati Tri Maryugo , Oktaviani Rina , Falatehan A. Faroby
Published: April 2018

Kota Tangerang Selatan merupakan kota yang sedang giat melaksanakan pembangunan di berbagai bidang. Akibatnya, aktivitas perekonomian masyarakat juga ikut meningkat dan mendorong peningkatan jumlah kendaraan bermotor yang digunakan oleh masyarakat Kota Tangerang Selatan. Sebagai konsekuensinya, hal tersebut akan meningkatkan kebutuhan lahan parkir dan meningkatkan pendapatan retribusi parkir, salah satunya parkir tepi jalan umum. Namun, sayangnya kontribusi parkir tepi jalan umum terhadap penerimaan daerah masih sangat rendah. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis kinerja retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum di Kota Tangerang Selatan, menganalisis faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi realisasi penerimaan retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum serta merumuskan prioritas strategi dalam upaya optimalisasi penerimaan retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum di Kota Tangerang Selatan. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah analisis kinerja, analisis regresi linier berganda, dan proses hierarki analisis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kinerja retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum tahun 2010-2015 masih belum baik dan faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi realisasi penerimaan retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum adalah jumlah kepemilikan kendaraan bermotor (roda 2 dan 4)  dan penerimaan retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum periode sebelumnya. Strategi dalam upaya optimalisasi penerimaan retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum Kota Tangerang Selatan yang dianalisis dengan AHP sesuai dengan urutan bobot dan prioritasnya adalah sebagai berikut: (a) Perbaikan sistem pengelolaan parkir tepi jalan umum dengan bobot sebesar 0.336 (b) Perbaikan sistem pengawasan parkir tepi jalan umum dengan bobot sebesar 0.234 (c) Peningkatan sosialisasi dan penegakkan hukum dengan bobot sebesar 0.208, (d) Peningkatan kualitas SDM dengan bobot sebesar 0.141, (e) Evaluasi kebijakan tarif retribusi pelayanan parkir tepi jalan umum dengan bobot sebesar 0,080.
Is there any relation between alexithymia in parents and children? Effects on children’s quality of life
Authors: Castañeda López Esther , Peñacoba Puente Cecilia , Benito Moreno Silvia
Published: April 2018

Introduction. The study of alexithymia in children (especially in healthy children), contrary to adult populations, has not been studied extensively, despite its relevant relation to health and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to analyze, in healthy children, the relation between children's alexithymia and their parents' alexithymia, the relation between children's alexithymia and children's quality of life, as well as to understand whether this relation is mediated by parents' alexithymia.Method. Alexithymia and quality of life questionnaires were administered to children aged 8- 12, and Alexithymia questionnaires were administered to their parents, father or mather who was the main care-takers. Correlational study. Means and standard deviations of the all variables were described. Pearson’ correlations, t-tests, multiple linear regressions and mediation analysis using ordinary least squares multiple regression and Sobel test were employed.Results. Results indicated a significant relation between Alexithymia dimensions for children and parents (except for the externally oriented thinking dimension). Children’s difficulty identifying feelings and difficulty describing feelings predict all their quality of life dimensions (except for physical well-being). Results further indicated that this relation was partially mediated by parent’s difficulty describing feelings for some of the children’s quality of life dimensions.Conclusion. These findings have important practical implications regarding the planning of educational school programs for children. Specifically, within an educational system according to competences, identification and emotional expression strategies should be incorporated for the enhancement of quality of life in children and the prevention of alexithymia and somatization problems in adults.
Development of the Exam Anxiety Scale for Parents: A Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: Baytemir Kemal , İlhan Tahsin
Published: April 2018

Introduction. The aim of this study is to develop a measurement instrument for measuring the exam anxiety experienced by the parents regarding their children’s exams.Method. The data were collected from two different study groups. While the first group consists of 299 parents, 169 female and 130 male, the second group consists of 200 parents, 108 female and 92 male. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted to examine the factor structure of the scale and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was conducted to confirm the obtained structure. Additionally, criterion validity was investigated by using the state-trait anxiety inventory.Results. The two-dimensional structure obtained through EFA was named as worry and physiological dimensions. In order to confirm this two-dimensional structure, CFA was conducted and the results showed that the sufficient model fit indices were gathered. For the criterion validity, positive medium correlations were found with the state-trait anxiety inventory. As for the reliability, the Cronbach’s Alpha values computed for both the first and second study groups ranged from .88 to .93 for the sub-dimensions and the overall scale.Discussion andr Conclusion. In light of the above mentioned results, it was concluded that the developed two-factor model is useful for measuring the exam anxiety of parents.
QFD TOOLS EFFICIENCY IN BUSINESS EXCELLENCE RELATED TO SMALL-SCALE PRODUCTION
Authors: Vorkapić Miloš , Minić Siniša , Popović Bogdan
Published: April 2018

An overview of the application of QFD tools through the application of modular architecture in the new product realization is presented in this paper. The QFD application can be considered as an engineering method in the analysis of the buyer's desires and business opportunities in business excellence. The application of modular architecture in product design provides the realization of new and diverse products suitable for re-use as well as for materials recycling. From this point of view, we have tried to explain the significance of the new Lean philosophy from the aspect of re-use of products, reduction of waste and employees’ efficiency increase. In this regard, the QFD tool represents the link between design and production process improvement.
Peran Parental Structure terhadap Basic Need Satisfaction pada Siswa Kelas IV-VI di Sekolah Dasar “X” Bandung
Authors: Permadi Yesika Nathasia , Savitri Jane , Mogot Pandin Destalya Anggrainy
Published: April 2018

Based on a study of 132 elementary school students in grade IV-VI found that there is significant parental structure effect on basic need satisfaction (R2 = 0,277, F = 49,704, and ρ = 0,000). Parental structure also has a significant influence on the three components of basic need satisfaction, namely need for autonomy (ρ = 0,000, F = 22,495), need for competence (ρ = 0,000, F = 45,106) and need for relatedness (ρ = 0,000, F = 21,091). Suggestions for research that will conduct further research are expected to undertake research on the influence of parental structures on basic need satisfaction using a wider coverage of respondents. In addition, the researcher proposes to the school to make a psychoeducation program with material related to the role of parental structures on the basic needs of satisfaction.
Identifying Unmet Training Needs for Postgraduate Research Students in the Biomedical Sciences through Audit of Examiners’ Reports
Authors: J Tonks Amanda , S Williams Anwen
Published: April 2018

Aim/Purpose: Understanding the educational needs of postgraduate research candidates (PGRs) is essential to facilitate development, support attainment, and maintain graduate quality.

Background: The production and effective defence of the research thesis are the summative assessment tools used in postgraduate research education. Examiners’ reports provide a rich source of feedback and indicate the gap between the candidate’s level of performance and that expected for the award. This provides a lens through which to view the unmet training needs of PGR cohorts.

Methodology: Following a review of all examiner reports for PGR assessments held over a 12 month period, we explored the quantitative and qualitative dimension data in context in order to identify common training needs for our PGR students. Utilising this theoretical framework and standard thematic analysis, we identified recurring themes and were able to determine key areas for future focus.

Contribution: This study utilises independent comment from postgraduate research candidate thesis and oral examination assessment to identify unmet core research training needs.

Findings: We recognised seven key areas identified by the examiners for improvement: i) quality of scientific writing, ii) general presentation of thesis, iii) statistics /data analysis, iv) understanding / critical appraisal, v) experimental design, vi) English language and vii) supervision. Academic literacy and numeracy stood out as key areas for future training focus. The results highlight areas for future focus in educational provision and targeted training for PGRs undertaking biomedical and life sciences research within our faculty.

Recommendations for Practitioners: Evaluation of postgraduate research programmes should include feedback from a variety of sources and not rely solely on employability and completion rates as measures of success. The examination committees are an important source of feedback on the individual and the programme with regard to attainment of core research skills.

Recommendation for Researchers: Regular and wide reaching evaluation of postgraduate research programmes and support available is required to ensure the sector can meet the changing needs of our PGR cohorts.

Impact on Society: Doctoral graduates are entering increasingly diverse employment fields. Ensuring the quality of graduates and supporting their journey through candidature ensures the greatest value for society once in the work place.

Future Research: This study highlights unmet training needs of PGRs as identified by an inde-pendent expert. The impact of engagement with training and the importance of prior experience are not explored in this study, nor is the student perspective on the process. These will reveal additional dimensions to the evaluation process.
Producción y comercialización de piloncillo: caso de la comunidad de Aldzulup Poytzén, San Luis Potosí
Authors: Baca del Moral Julio , Cuevas Reyes Venancio , Rosales Nieto César A. , Rivera Martínez Gerardo
Published: April 2018

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue caracterizar la producción y comercialización de piloncillo en tres tipos de productores de la comunidad de Aldzulup Poytzén, San Luis Potosí. Mediante muestreo no probabilístico fueron entrevistados 36 productores, 17 socios, 10 ex socios de una organización y 9 productores sin experiencia organizativa, el estudio de las variables escalares se realizó mediante análisis de varianza para comparación de medias. Los tres tipos de productores cuentan con características socioeconómicas similares, tienen un rango de edad de 52 a 61 años, una superficie agrícola menor a 5.3 hectáreas y en promedio de 1 a 1.43 sembradas con caña. La superficie sembrada de caña es de temporal, la variedad más utilizada es la ZMex 55-32, no utilizan fertilizantes ni plaguicidas. El 97.3% está vinculado al mercado a través de la venta de piloncillo, no existe una diferencia significativa (p< 0.05) entre los ingresos obtenidos por la venta de piloncillo industrial y granulado. El 86.1% de la comercialización del piloncillo se realiza a través de acopiadores de la misma comunidad. Se concluye que se deben buscar y promocionar nuevos modelos de comercialización que permitan obtener un mayor margen de ganancia a los productores de piloncillo.
La construcción discursiva del patrimonio agroalimentario en las sociedades contemporáneas: aproximaciones conceptuales y debates teóricos
Authors: Blas-Yañez Sandra , Thomé-Ortiz Humberto , Espinoza Ortega Angélica , Vizcarra Bordi Ivonne
Published: April 2018

El presente ensayo aborda las tres perspectivas teóricas que han examinado el patrimonio agroalimentario en los últimos 10 años. El objetivo fue identificar y contrastar las diferentes posturas, así como adoptar distintos ángulos para el abordaje del patrimonio agroalimentario desde los estudios rurales. Las formas de aproximación social que han contribuido a la conformación de un corpus teórico sobre el patrimonio agroalimentario, son diversas, mantienen enfoques contrastantes y ante la práctica discursiva de sus preceptos institucionales, generan cambios considerables en las formas de apropiación, producción, distribución y consumo de los recursos agroalimentarios. Por ello se propone desarrollar un marco teórico interpretativo a través de la fenomenología, que dé cuenta de los flujos y relaciones entre dimensiones discursivas, que impactan en la resignificación del valor, posicionamiento y consumo de productos agroalimentarios emblemáticos por la sociedad contemporánea. Además, de contribuir a dar voz a un tipo de discurso emergente, con base en las dinámicas locales, que articulan la apropiación de los diversos discursos patrimoniales y las negociaciones existentes entre lo local y lo global.
HAP14F: híbrido de chile ancho poblano para el Altiplano de México
Authors: Santiago López Ulises , Ramírez Meraz Moisés , Méndez Aguilar Reinaldo
Published: April 2018

En México, el chile poblano tiene gran importancia gastronómica, económica y social por ser ingrediente básico de platillos tradicionales. La obtención de bajos rendimientos en las áreas productoras, principalmente en el Altiplano de México, se debe al elevado uso de semilla criolla. Para atenuar el problema antes mencionado el INIFAP desarrolló el híbrido de chile ancho poblano HAP14F, el cual es de ciclo precoz debido a que presenta la floración y la maduración del fruto a los 39 y 118 días después del trasplante (ddt), respectivamente. Produce frutos de color verde intermedio en estado inmaduro que se tornan a color rojo obscuro con una fuerte brillantez en estado maduro. En evaluaciones a cielo abierto este híbrido tuvo un rendimiento promedio de 3.7 t ha-1 de chile seco o deshidratado y en fruto verde alcanzó 23.1 t ha-1. Por lo antes mencionado, HAP14F se considera una buena alternativa para el Altiplano de México.
Pengaruh Pelatihan Pendidikan Karakter Terhadap Self Confidence Mahasiswa Di Akper “YKY” Yogyakarta
Authors: Aristina Tenang , Wardhaningsih Shanti , Affandi Moh
Published: April 2018

Background : The problem of self confidence in student should be a common concern considering that we are now in global era that free for competition with countries in the world. It requires a character that is self confident that will deliver the students to have a strong believe and motivation to dare to compete with the people of various countries.

Purpose : Determining the influence of character education modul of attitude and self confidence competences on the students.

Research method : This research design was quasy experiment with pre-post test design. The sample were total sampling. There were 68 of population at the first year divided into two class. Class 1a was 34 students as a control group and class 1b was 34 students as a intervention group. The variable of attitude and self confidence was measured with Wilcoxon sign rank test and Mann-Whitney test.

Result : The result showed that an increase on self confidence variable by application of character education modul. Statistic analysis ρ=0,009 on attitude variable of intervention group and ρ=0,317 on control group. On self confidence variable for intervention group ρ=0,001 and control group ρ=0,063. Differences of self confidence ρ=0,025.

Conclusion : The coaching of character education modul was able to elevate the self confidence on students. There was significant changes on self confidence at intervention and control group.
BEBERAPA KOMPONEN FISIKOKIMIA KAKAO FERMENTASI DAN NON FERMENTASI
Authors: Tarigan Elsera Br
Published: April 2018

Kakao salah satu tanaman perkebunan penghasil devisa negara, karena Indonesia merupakan produsen terbesar ketiga dunia. Kakao Indonesia umumnya memiliki mutu lebih rendah, salah satunya disebabkan oleh tidak dilakukannya proses fermentasi. Fermentasi merupakan perubahan kimia pada zat organik yang timbul akibat enzim mikroba. Mikroba jenis Bacillus dan jamur filamenteus akan menguraikan pulpa sehingga terbentuk aroma cokelat. Proses fermentasi dapat dilakukan dengan beragam metode, seperti ditumpuk atau menggunakan wadah kotak. Rata-rata proses fermentasi membutuhkan waktu sekitar 5-6 hari. Mutu fisik biji kakao fermentasi sudah diatur dalam SNI 2323-2008. Beberapa penelitian yang terkait perbedaan mutu fisik biji kakao hasil fermentasi dan tidak fermentasi terlihat jelas pada warna, aroma dan tekstur biji pada saat dilakukan uji belah. Selain itu, kandungan lemak dan nilai pH pada biji kakao hasil fermentasi lebih tinggi bila dibandingkan dengan tanpa fermentasi. Senyawa volatil yang lazim ditemukan pada kakao merupakan golongan aldehid, keton, ester, alkohol, asam, pirazin dan senyawa lainnya. Senyawa golongan aldehid yang memberikan flavor cokelat seperti 2-methylbutanal meningkat selama fermentasi. Rerata kandungan senyawa volatil yang memberikan aroma yang disukai meningkat selama bertambahnya waktu fermentasi.
KARAKTERISTIK KIMIA PADA PEMBUATAN MI SAGU (Metroxylon sagu) KERING
Authors: Engelen Adnan
Published: April 2018

Gandum yang dikonsumsi di Indonesia diimpor dari luar negeri. Untuk meminimalisir impor gandum dibutuhkan bahan-bahan olahan lokal dan digunakan menjadi produk lokal. Salah satu produk lokal yang berasal dari bahan baku lokal adalah sagu. Pemanfaatan sagu dapat digunakan sebagai bahan baku untuk membuat mi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memproduksi mi sagu kering. Sagu mi dibuat melalui suatu proses menggunakan twin screw extruder dengan menambahkan emulsifier berupa GMS (Gliserol monostearat) dan ISP (Isolated Soybean Protein). Dua tahapan yang dilakukan pada penelitian ini : 1) pembuatan mi sagu kering, 2) karakterisasi kimia, warna dan sifat sensori mi sagu kering. Mi sagu kering menghasilkan komponen kimia antara lain air (10.32%), abu (0.20%), protein (2.63%), lemak (0.21%), karbohidrat (86.63%), dan nilai warna (L = 34.70, a = 2.56, b = 6.19). Hasil penelitian dengan menggunakan uji t-test menunjukkan bahwa tidak terdapat perbedaan signifikan antara mi sagu kering dan mi terigu pada parameter kekerasan, kelengketan, elongasi dan overall.
FORMULASI HARD CANDY MENGGUNAKAN PEWARNA ALAMI FIKOSIANIN Spirulina platensis
Authors: Andini Devita Febry
Published: April 2018

Penelitian ini mencari formulasi Hard Candy dengan penambahan ekstrak biopigmen biru fikosianin Spirulina platensis sebagai pewarna alami dan mempelajari kestabilan warna fikosianin setelah diaplikasikan ke dalam produk pangan. Penelitian dilakukan selama tiga tahap yaitu preparasi fikosianin, pengolahan Hard Candy, dan analisis Hard Candy. Penelitian tahap satu yaitu ekstraksi fikosianin menggunakan metode pembekuan. dan enkapsulasi fikosianin menggunakan maltodekstrin dengan perbandingan 1:1. Penelitian tahap dua yaitu pengolahan Hard Candy dengan dua faktor percobaan berupa variasi formula sukrosa 80 g (F1) dan 100 g (F2) dan variasi konsentrasi fikosianin 1 g (B1), 2g (B2), dan 3 g (B3). Pada penelitian tahap tiga dilakukan analisis produk. Rancangan percobaan yang digunakan yaitu Rancang Acak Lengkap (RAL) Dua Faktor. Produk Hard Candy diuji hedonik dengan parameter mutu yaitu warna, rasa, dan tekstur (menggunakan 25 panelis semi terlatih). Formula Hard Candy terpilih menurut panelis yaitu F1B3 (sukrosa 80 g dan fikosianin 3 g) dengan hasil uji hedonik yaitu warna disukai, rasa dan tekstur agak disukai. Hasil analisis kimia menunjukkan nilai aktivitas antioksidan (IC50) pada produk Hard Candy sebesar 319,05 ppm, kadar gula reduksi 16,92%, kadar sakarosa 44,33%, kadar air 0,92%, kadar abu 0,02%, dan kadar protein 72,33 ppm. Nilai absorbansi Hard Candy diperoleh tetap stabil hingga pengamatan hari ke-28 (warna biru Hard Candy tetap stabil selama 28 hari pengamatan).
Strong Consistency and Asymptotic Distribution of Estimator for the Intensity Function Having Form of Periodic Function Multiplied by Power Function Trend of a Poisson Process
Authors: Valentika Nina , Mangku Wayan , Erliana Windiani
Published: April 2018

This manuscript discusses the strong consistency and the asymptotic distribution of an estimator for a periodic component of the intensity function having a form of periodic function multiplied by power function trend of a non-homogeneous Poisson process by using a uniform kernel function. It is assumed that the period of the periodic component of intensity function is known. An estimator for the periodic component using only a single realization of a Poisson process observed at a certain interval has been constructed. This estimator has been proved to be strongly consistent if the length of the observation interval indefinitely expands. Computer simulation also showed the asymptotic normality of this estimator.
Efecto del consumo voluntario de Leucaena leucocephala sobre la degradación ruminal de la materia orgánica en ovinos
Authors: Barros Marco
Published: April 2018

Efecto del consumo voluntario de Leucaena leucocephala sobre la degradación ruminal de la materia orgánica en ovinos
Optimization of Low Pressure Carburizing and High Pressure Gas Quenching for Cr-alloyed PM parts*
Authors: Pauty E. , Bertoni P. , Dahlström M. , Larsson M.
Published: April 2018

Today Low Pressure Carburizing (LPC) followed by High Pressure Gas Quenching (HPGQ) is an established process to produce high performance components for conventional steels in order to combine high surface hardness and fatigue strength. On the other hand, thanks to its ability to combine good quality and cost saving, PM process is more and more popular in the automotive industry (especially in the transmission applications as synchronizer hubs/rings, sliding sleeves, …). In order to answer the increasing application performance requirements, chromium-alloyed grades are often used because they provide a cost-efficient way to reach high mechanical properties. However these materials need specific sintering conditions and cannot be surface hardened by conventional gas carburization and oil quenching. Thus, the alternative LPC & HPGQ applied to PM parts is a very promising, cost-efficient, and environmental solution to produce high performance parts. This paper presents the last trends and results of this solution.
Adaptive Non-Strict Trajectory Tracking Control Scheme for a Fully Actuated Unmanned Surface Vehicle
Authors: Wang Jian , Liu Jing-yang , Yi Hong , Wu Nai-long
Published: April 2018

This study presents a new adaptive trajectory tracking control scheme for a fully actuated Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) to track a common moving target region. In this control concept, the desired objective trajectory is specified as a moving region instead of a moving point, and so which is called non-strict trajectory tracking. Within this control scheme, a regression matrix is used to handle the parameter uncertainties, and region-based control scheme is used to track a desired moving region. A switching gain control term based on the exponential function is proposed to make the USV’s trajectory converge into the desired moving region rather than converge on the boundary of the moving region, and to reduce system chattering at the same time. A Lyapunov-like function is presented for stability analysis of the proposed control scheme. Numerical simulations are conducted to demonstrate the performance of the proposed non-strict trajectory tracking control scheme of the USV.
Effects of Nanoparticle Materials on Prebreakdown and Breakdown Properties of Transformer Oil
Authors: Lv Yuzhen , Ge Yang , Wang Lei , Sun Zhen , Zhou You , Huang Meng , Li Chengrong , Yuan Jinsha , Qi Bo
Published: April 2018

In order to reveal the effects of nanoparticle materials on prebreakdown and breakdown properties of transformer oil, three types of nanoparticle materials, including conductive Fe3O4, semiconductive TiO2 and insulating Al2O3 nanoparticles, were prepared with the same size and surface modification. An experimental study on the breakdown strength and prebreakdown streamer propagation characteristics were investigated for transformer oil and three types of nanofluids under positive lightning impulse voltage. The results indicate that the type of nanoparticle materials has a notable impact on breakdown strength and streamer propagation characteristics of transformer oil. Breakdown voltages of nanofluids are markedly increased by 41.3% and 29.8% respectively by the presence of Fe3O4 and TiO2 nanoparticles. Whereas a slight increase of only 7.4% is observed for Al2O3 nanofluid. Moreover, main discharge channels with thicker and denser branches are formed and the streamer propagation velocities are greatly lowered both in Fe3O4 and TiO2 nanofluids, while no obvious change appears in the propagation process of streamers in Al2O3 nanofluid in comparison with that in pure oil. The test results of trap characteristics reveal that the densities of shallow traps both in Fe3O4 and TiO2 nanofluids are much higher than that in Al2O3 nanofluid and pure oil, greatly reducing the distortion of the electric field. Thus, the propagations of positive streamers in the nanofluids are significantly suppressed by Fe3O4 and TiO2 nanoparticles, leading to the improvements of breakdown strength.
Comparison of the Effect of Toothbrushing Education Via Video, Lecture and Pamphlet on the Dental Plaque Index of 12-Year-Old Children
Authors: Ramezaninia Javad , Naghibi Sistani Mohammad Mehdi , Ahangari Zohreh , Gholinia Hemmat , Jahanian Iman , Gharekhani Samaneh
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of different modes of toothbrushing education (lecture, video and pamphlet) on the dental plaque index (PI) of adolescents. The cluster randomized intervention was performed on 128 participants aged 12 years, who were allocated into four groups based on the type of intervention. Group 1: no intervention; and groups 2, 3, 4: education via lecture, video, and pamphlet, respectively (n = 32). Their plaque index was measured at the baseline, 24 h and two months later. Data were analyzed by repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), one-way ANOVA, independent and paired t-test. The plaque indices of groups 2, 3, 4 at 24 h (p values < 0.001) and two months (p values < 0.001) showed a significant reduction when compared to the baseline. The lowest PI score was observed in the pamphlet, video and lecture groups at 24 h, respectively. After 2 months, the lowest score of PI was measured in lecture, video and pamphlet groups, respectively; however, these differences were non-significant. Therefore, toothbrushing education via lecture, video and pamphlet reduced the dental plaque index with the same effectiveness.
Vulnerability Assessment of the Livelihoods in Tanzania’s Semi-Arid Agro-Ecological Zone under Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Mkonda Msafiri , He Xinhua
Published: April 2018

Despite the established literature on the vulnerability to climate change in various parts of Tanzania, it is worthwhile to assess the extent of this vulnerability of the peoples’ livelihoods and predict its future outcome. This is particularly important in the vulnerable ecosystems, that is, the semi-arid zones of Tanzania where the people’s livelihoods are highly attached to the declining local condition. The present study aims to assess the livelihoods vulnerability in Kongwa District, the semi-arid zone of Central Tanzania. In doing so, a wide range of methods were employed during data collection and analyses including surveys, informative interviews, discussions and observation. The study sampled 400 (≤10%) respondents during a survey. The Mann-Kendall Test with SPSS V20, Microsoft Excel and Theme content techniques were used for data analyses. The results indicate that climate stress has adversely impacted the quality of soil, vegetation, crop yields and intensified environmental degradation. Since most people depend upon the mentioned affected aspects, it is expected that also the level of livelihood vulnerability has elevated. Further, this situation has greatly contributed to increased poverty and thus, propagates the “tragedy of the common” to the available environmental resources. As a response to increased vulnerability, some farmers have abandoned thousands of hectares of agricultural farms that seemed to be less productive. Despite this, slight measures have been taken by both the government and other key stakeholders to limit vulnerability. The findings of this study provide a theoretical and practical basis for coordinating a sustainable man-environment relationship, ensuring the sustainability of the environment which is the major source of peoples’ livelihoods.
Bridging the Gap between ABM and MAS: A Disaster-Rescue Simulation Using Jason and NetLogo
Authors: Luna-Ramirez Wulfrano , Fasli Maria
Published: April 2018

An agent is an autonomous computer system situated in an environment to fulfill a design objective. Multi-Agent Systems aim to solve problems in a flexible and robust way by assembling sets of agents interacting in cooperative or competitive ways for the sake of possibly common objectives. Multi-Agent Systems have been applied to several domains ranging from many industrial sectors, e-commerce, health and even entertainment. Agent-Based Modeling, a sort of Multi-Agent Systems, is a technique used to study complex systems in a wide range of domains. A natural or social system can be represented, modeled and explained through a simulation based on agents and interactions. Such a simulation can comprise a variety of agent architectures like reactive and cognitive agents. Despite cognitive agents being highly relevant to simulate social systems due their capability of modelling aspects of human behaviour ranging from individuals to crowds, they still have not been applied extensively. A challenging and socially relevant domain are the Disaster-Rescue simulations that can benefit from using cognitive agents to develop a realistic simulation. In this paper, a Multi-Agent System applied to the Disaster-Rescue domain involving cognitive agents based on the Belief–Desire–Intention architecture is presented. The system aims to bridge the gap in combining Agent-Based Modelling and Multi-Agent Systems approaches by integrating two major platforms in the field of Agent-Based Modeling and Belief-Desire Intention multi-agent systems, namely, NetLogo and Jason.
Evaluation of Harmonics Impact on Digital Relays
Authors: Wannous Kinan , Toman Petr
Published: April 2018

This paper presents the concept of the impact of harmonic distortion on a digital protection relay. The aim is to verify and determine the reasons of a mal-trip or failure to trip the protection relays; the suggested solution of the harmonic distortion is explained by a mathematical model in the Matlab Simulink programming environment. The digital relays have been tested under harmonic distortions in order to verify the function of the relays algorithm under abnormal conditions. The comparison between the protection relay algorithm under abnormal conditions and a mathematical model in the Matlab Simulink programming environment based on injected harmonics of high values is provided. The test is separated into different levels; the first level is based on the harmonic effect of an individual harmonic and mixed harmonics. The test includes the effect of the harmonics in the location of the fault point into distance protection zones. This paper is a new proposal in the signal processing of power quality disturbances using Matlab Simulink and the power quality impact on the measurements of the power system quantities; the test simulates the function of protection in power systems in terms of calculating the current and voltage values of short circuits and their faults. The paper includes several tests: frequency variations and decomposition of voltage waveforms with Fourier transforms (model) and commercial relay, the effect of the power factor on the location of fault points, the relation between the tripping time and the total harmonic distortion (THD) levels in a commercial relay, and a comparison of the THD capture between the commercial relay and the model.
Optimizing Operation Indices Considering Different Types of Distributed Generation in Microgrid Applications
Authors: Ghanbari Niloofar , Mokhtari Hossein , Bhattacharya Subhashish
Published: April 2018

The need for independent power generation has increased in recent years, especially with the growing demand in microgrid systems. In a microgrid with several generations of different types and with all kinds of loads of variable nature, an optimal power balance in the system has to be achieved. This optimal objective, which results in minimal energy losses over a specific period of time, requires an optimal location and sizing of the distributed generations (DGs) in a microgrid. This paper proposes a new optimization method in which both optimal location of the DGs and their generation profile according to the load demand profile as well as the type of DG are determined during the life time of the DGs. The types of DGs that are considered in this paper are diesel generators and wind turbine. The method is based on simultaneously minimizing the cost of the investment and operation of the DGs, the cost of power delivered by the the external grid as well as the cost of power losses in the network. The proposed method is tested on the IEEE standard radial distribution network considering time-varying loads and the wind speed every hour of a day.
The Potential Health Benefits of Noni Juice: A Review of Human Intervention Studies
Authors: West Brett , Deng Shixin , Isami Fumiyuki , Uwaya Akemi , Jensen Claude
Published: April 2018

Noni juice is a globally popular health beverage originating in the tropics. Traditional Tahitian healers believe the noni plant to be useful for a wide range of maladies, and noni juice consumers throughout the world have similar perceptions. Nevertheless, human clinical trials are necessary for a precise understanding of what the health benefits of noni juice are. A review of published human intervention studies suggests that noni juice may provide protection against tobacco smoke-induced DNA damage, blood lipid and homocysteine elevation as well as systemic inflammation. Human intervention studies also indicate that noni juice may improve joint health, increase physical endurance, increase immune activity, inhibit glycation of proteins, aid weight management, help maintain bone health in women, help maintain normal blood pressure, and improve gum health. Further, these studies point to notable antioxidant activity in noni juice, more so than other fruit juices which served as trial placebos. It is this antioxidant effect and its interaction with the immune system and inflammation pathways that may account for many of the observed health benefits of noni juice. However, the existing evidence does have some limitations as far as its general application to noni juice products; all the peer-reviewed human interventions studies to date have involved only one source of French Polynesian noni juice. Geographical factors and variations in processing methods are known to produce commercial noni juice products with divergent phytochemical and nutrient compositions. Therefore, other sources of noni products may have different toxicological and pharmacological profiles.
Social Interventions to Prevent Heat-Related Mortality in the Older Adult in Rome, Italy: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Liotta Giuseppe , Inzerilli Maria , Palombi Leonardo , Madaro Olga , Orlando Stefano , Scarcella Paola , Betti Daniela , Marazzi Maria
Published: April 2018

This study focuses on the impact of a program aimed at reducing heat-related mortality among older adults residing in central Rome by counteracting social isolation. The mortality of citizens over the age of 75 living in three Urban Areas (UAs) located in central Rome is compared with that of the residents of four adjacent UAs during the summer of 2015. The data, broken down by UA, were provided by the Statistical Office of the Municipality of Rome, which gathers them on a routine basis. During the summer of 2015, 167 deaths were recorded in those UAs in which the Long Live the Elderly (LLE) program was active and 169 in those in which it was not, implying cumulative mortality rates of 25‰ (SD ± 1.4; Cl 95%: 23–29) and 29‰ (SD ± 6.7; Cl 95%: 17–43), respectively. Relative to the summer of 2014, the increase of deaths during the summer of 2015 was greater in UAs in which the LLE program had not been implemented (+97.3% vs. +48.8%). In conclusion, the paper shows the impact of a community-based active monitoring program, focused on strengthening individual relationship networks and the social capital of the community, on mortality in those over 75 during heat waves.
Dietary Behaviors and Caregiver Perceptions of Overweight and Obesity among Chinese Preschool Children
Authors: Tang Amber , Ji Meimei , Zhang Yefu , Zou Jiaojiao , Li Mingzhi , Yang Lina , Lin Qian
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Early childhood obesity in China has become a pressing public health concern. A substantial barrier to healthy weight management is poor parental recognition of child overweight. This study examined the relationship between caregiver perceptions of child weight and dietary practices. Methods: A total of 364 children between 2 and 6 years old from six urban preschools in Changsha (China) were included in a cross-sectional study. Information on household demographics, health behaviors, and caregiver attitudes was collected through a self-administered caregiver questionnaire. Chi-squared tests, t-tests, and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to determine the relationship between caregiver perceptions, dietary behaviors, and child weight status. Results: Over 60% of caregivers with overweight/obese children underestimated their children’s weight status. These caregivers were less likely to worry about weight and restrict their children’s dietary intakes. Children of caregivers who incorrectly classified their weights were also more likely to have a poor appetite. Caregivers of male children and those from families with incomes between 7000 and 11,000 Ren Min Bi (RMB) were more likely to underestimate weight compared to caregivers with daughters and those from higher income households. Conclusions: Although accurate weight perception may be important for motivating healthy behavioral changes, it may also lead to greater restriction of children’s diets, which has been linked to long-term weight gain. Interventions to improve awareness of child overweight should be coupled with efforts that teach caregivers about healthy weight management strategies.
Multisensory Integration Strategy for Modality-Specific Loss of Inhibition Control in Older Adults
Authors: Lee Ahreum , Ryu Hokyoung , Kim Jae-Kwan , Jeong Eunju
Published: April 2018

Older adults are known to have lesser cognitive control capability and greater susceptibility to distraction than young adults. Previous studies have reported age-related problems in selective attention and inhibitory control, yielding mixed results depending on modality and context in which stimuli and tasks were presented. The purpose of the study was to empirically demonstrate a modality-specific loss of inhibitory control in processing audio-visual information with ageing. A group of 30 young adults (mean age = 25.23, Standar Desviation (SD) = 1.86) and 22 older adults (mean age = 55.91, SD = 4.92) performed the audio-visual contour identification task (AV-CIT). We compared performance of visual/auditory identification (Uni-V, Uni-A) with that of visual/auditory identification in the presence of distraction in counterpart modality (Multi-V, Multi-A). The findings showed a modality-specific effect on inhibitory control. Uni-V performance was significantly better than Multi-V, indicating that auditory distraction significantly hampered visual target identification. However, Multi-A performance was significantly enhanced compared to Uni-A, indicating that auditory target performance was significantly enhanced by visual distraction. Additional analysis showed an age-specific effect on enhancement between Uni-A and Multi-A depending on the level of visual inhibition. Together, our findings indicated that the loss of visual inhibitory control was beneficial for the auditory target identification presented in a multimodal context in older adults. A likely multisensory information processing strategy in the older adults was further discussed in relation to aged cognition.
Effects of Mind-Body Exercises for Mood and Functional Capabilities in Patients with Stroke: An Analytical Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zou Liye , Yeung Albert , Zeng Nan , Wang Chaoyi , Sun Li , Thomas Garrett , Wang Huiru
Published: April 2018

Objective: The effects of stroke are both physical and mental in nature and may have serious implications on the overall well-being of stroke survivors. This analytical review aims to critically evaluate and statistically synthesize the existing literature regarding the effects of mind-body (MB) exercises on mood and functional capabilities in patients with stroke. Methods: A structured literature review was performed in both English (PubMed, PEDro, and Cochrane Library) and Chinese (Wanfang and CNKI (Chinese National Knowledge Information Database)) databases. Sixteen randomized controlled trials were considered eligible for meta-analysis. Based on the random effects model, we used the pooled effect size to determine the magnitude of rehabilitative effect of MB exercise intervention on depression, anxiety, activities of daily living, and functional mobility among stroke survivors. The sum PEDro score ranged from five to nine points (fair-to-good methodological quality), but the absence of concealed allocation and blinded assessors were reported in most studies. Results: The aggregated results showed that MB exercise intervention is associated with significantly improved ADL (Hedges’ g = 1.31, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.77, p < 0.001, I2 = 79.82%) and mobility (Hedges’ g = 0.67, 95% CI 0.25 to 1.09, p < 0.001, I2 = 69.65%), and reduced depression (Hedges’ g = −0.76, 95% CI −1.16 to −0.35, p < 0.001, I2 = 74.84%). Conclusions: as add-on treatments, the MB exercises may potentially improve depression, activities of daily living, and mobility of these post-stroke patients. Future studies with more robust methodology will be needed to provide a more definitive conclusion.