bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peningkatan Daya Saing UMKM Alas Kaki di Kecamatan Ciomas, Kabupaten Bogor dan Implikasinya terhadap Strategi Pemasaran
Authors: Nurzamzami Ayatusyifa , Siregar Edward Halomoan
Published: December 2017

 Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah (UMKM) alas kaki di Kecamatan Ciomas, Kabupaten Bogor merupakan salah satu wilayah pengrajin home industry. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah : 1) Mengetahui faktor-faktor yang berpengaruh terhadap peningkatan daya saing produk; 2) Menganalisis faktor internal dan eksternal; dan (3) Menyusun strategi serta membuat prioritas strategi untuk meningkatkan daya saing UMKM alas kaki di Kecamatan Ciomas. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa kekuatan utama untuk memiliki daya saing adalah memiliki hubungan jangka panjang yang baik dengan para pemasok dan pelanggan dengan skor 0.488, potensi pasar yang cukup besar merupakan peluang utama dengan skor 0.534, analisis ancaman utama adalah semakin lengkap dan inovatif desain fitur produk pesaing yang didukung teknologi canggih dengan skor 0.372. Alternatif strategi prioritas adalah strategi mengembangkan dan memperluas pasar dengan meningkatkan kualitas dan inovasi produk dengan bobot 0.316.
Kata kunci : alas kaki, analisis daya saing, dan strategi.
Pengaruh Kinerja Keuangan terhadap Harga SahamPerusahaan-Perusahaan Produsen Kabel yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Adha Chinderayi , Dewi Farida Ratna
Published: December 2017

Industri kabel merupakan industri yang bergerak di bidang pembuatan kabel dan kawat aluminium dan tembaga serta bahan baku lainnya, beserta seluruh komponen. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah : 1) Menganalisis Net Profit Margin (NPM), Return On Investment (ROI), Return on Equity (ROE), dan Earning Per Share (EPS) periode 2008-2012 pada perusahaan produsen kabel yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia (BEI);2) Menganalisis pengaruh NPM, ROI, ROE, dan EPS periode 2008-2012 terhadap harga saham pada perusahaan kabeldi BEI Metode yang akan digunakan adalah Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan nilai outer loading original sample NPM sebesar 0.792, ROI sebesar 0.873, ROE sebesar 0.895, dan EPS sebesar 0.905. Semakin tinggi nilainya berarti indikator tersebut semakin mewakili konstrak dan berpengaruh terhadap harga saham. Sehingga indikator paling berpengaruh terhadap harga saham adalah EPS. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan konstrak kinerja keuangan mampu menjelaskan harga saham sebesar 44.4%.
Kata kunci: BEI, kabel , kinerja  keuangan, saham
Analisis Pengaruh Rasio Profitabilitas dan Economic Value Added terhadap Harga Saham pada Sub Sektor Industri Semen yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia
Authors: Mugi Anggita , Irwanto Abdul Kohar , Permanasari Yusrina
Published: December 2017

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh Return on Asset (ROA), Return on Equity (ROE), Net Profit Margin (NPM), Earning Per Share (EPS) dan Economic Value Added (EVA) terhadap harga saham. Sampel yang digunakan adalah perusahaan sub sektor industri semen yang terdaftar di BEI periode 2009-2011. Variabel independen yang digunakan adalah ROA, ROE, NPM, EPS dan EVA dengan variabel dependennya adalah harga saham. Metode analisis yang digunakan adalah regresi data panel yang meliputi data cross section dan time series. Hasil analisis regresi data panel menunjukkan bahwa secara simultan variabel ROA, ROE, NPM, EPS dan EVA berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadapa harga saham karena nilai p-value (0.000) < alpha (0.05). Sedangkan secara parsial variabel EVA tidak berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadap harga saham karena nilai p-value pada EVA (0.0683) > alpha (0,05) dan variabel ROA, ROE, NPM dan EPS berpengaruh secara parsial terhadap harga saham dengan nilai p-value berturut-turut sebesar (0.0002; 0.0013; 0.0008; 0.000). Hasil uji analisis koefisien determinasi adalah sebesar 95.51% hal ini bahwa variabel independen yang ada pada regresi ini mampu menjelaskan sebesar 95.51% dan sisanya 4.49% kemungkinan dijelaskan oleh faktor lain yang tidak dijelaskan ke dalam model ini.
Kata kunci : ROA, ROE, NPM, EPS, EVA,  Harga Saham
Pengaruh Modal Insani dan Modal Sosial terhadap Kinerja (Studi Kasus Usaha Kecil dan Menengah (UKM) Makanan dan Minuman Kota Bogor)
Authors: Khoirrini Layla , Kartika Lindawati
Published: December 2017

Usaha Kecil dan Menengah (UKM) makanan dan minuman kota Bogor mampu menyerap banyak tenaga kerja. Tenaga kerja merupakan aset bagi perusahaan dalam bentuk modal insani dan modal sosial. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menganalisis secara deskriptif, menganalisis pengaruh modal insani dan modal sosial terhadap kinerja UKM makanan dan minuman Kota Bogor, serta memformulasikan rekomendasi untuk meningkatkan kinerja UKM. Metode penelitian yang digunakan antara lain analisis deskriptif, Importance Performance Analysis (IPA), fishbone diagram, dan Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) dengan pendekatan Partial Least Squares (PLS). Hasil analisis SEM menyatakan bahwa pengetahuan lain  dan dimensi struktural berpengaruh terhadap modal insani dan modal sosial, di mana modal insani dan modal sosial berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja. Oleh karena itu, peningkatan kinerja pada UKM direkomendasikan melalui beberapa kegiatan penunjang antara lain: membentuk sistem pengendalian mutu dan penyusunan standar pelaksanaan produksi, memperbaiki sarana prasarana yang dimiliki oleh UKM, serta ikut serta dalam pelatihan untuk meningkatkan kompetensi pekerja UKM.
Kata kunci: kinerja UKM, modal insani, modal sosial, partial least squares, structural equation modelling
Investigation on the use of graphene as a unique drug delivery platform for dissimilar anticancer drugs
Authors: Vinothini Kandasamy , Rajan Mariappan
Published: December 2017

This study examines the performance of 5-flurouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin (CDDP) loaded graphene nanocarrier, which were prepared using nano precipitation technique to investigate the loading nature of two anti-cancer drugs. Initially, the graphite was exfoliated under ultrasonication method. The exfoliated sheets characterized and a single layer of carbon atoms like graphene sheets was confirmed. 5-FU and CDDP as an anti-cancer model drugs were entrapped on to the surface of the graphene sheets via electrostatic and π-π staking interactions. The prepared graphene nanocarrier have been thoroughly characterized by using various microscopic techniques, including Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction(XRD).The encapsulation efficiency and in-vitro drug releasing behavior of the nanocarrier were investigated by UV-Vis spectrometry the wavelength of λmax 265nm and 267nm. Aromatic 5-FU anti-cancer drug have higher encapsulation efficacy and sustained releasing nature. Since graphene is good platform for the entrapment of 5-FU anti-cancer drug then CDDP for chemotherapy.
Available diagnostics methods and challenges in the fight against Leptospirosis
Authors: Higuchi Akon , Benelli Giovanni , Subbiah Suresh Kumar
Published: December 2017

Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonosis currently known as reemerging disease worldwide.
Clinacanthus nutans Aqueous Extract But Not Ethanolic Extract Inhibits the Release of Preformed Mediators in In Vitro Model of IgE-Mediated Mast Cell Degranulation
Authors: Kow Audrey Siew Foong , Fong Lai Yen , Khoo Leng Wei , Tan Ji Wei , Shaari Khozirah , Lee Ming Tatt , Ahmad Israf Daud , Abas Faridah , Tham Chau Ling
Published: December 2017

C. nutans (Burm. f.) Lindau is a shrub that is commonly found in South East Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. This plant has diverse and potential medicinal uses in traditional herbal medicine for treating many diseases which include skin rashes. Skin rash is one of the symptoms that primarily occur in people with allergies. Till date, there has been no scientific evidence to support this traditional use of C. nutans as well as its potential of possessing anti-allergic properties. IgE and mast cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of allergy. Upon cross-linking of allergen to IgE antibodies bound to FcεRI on mast cells, pro-inflammatory mediators will be released as a result of degranulation. The release of pro-inflammatory mediators by mast cells activated by allergen in the skin causes large, itchy, red swellings of the skin. This study aimed to identify the most active C. nutans extract in inhibiting in vitro IgE-mast cell degranulation. Rat basophilic leukaemic cells (RBL-2H3) were pre-sensitised with IgE, pre-treated with C. nutans ethanolic (100%, 70% and 50%) or aqueous extracts and challenged with dinitrophenyl-bovine serum albumin (DNP-BSA) accordingly to analyse the release of β-hexosaminidase, histamine, interleukin (IL)-4 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α. It was found that C. nutans aqueous extract was the most active extract compared to the ethanolic extracts as it was able to inhibit the release of β-hexosaminidase and histamine at concentrations of 5 mg/ml and above.
Algebra
Authors: Stein Mary Kay , Kaufman Julia Heath , Sherman Milan , Hillen Amy F.
Published: December 2017

The authors review what is known about early and universal algebra, including who is getting access to algebra and student outcomes associated with algebra course taking in general and specifically with universal algebra policies. The findings indicate that increasing numbers of students, some of whom are underprepared, are taking algebra earlier. At the same time, other students with requisite skills are not given access to algebra. Although studies using nationally representative data indicate strong positive outcomes for students who take algebra early, studies conducted only in contexts where all students are mandated to take algebra in eighth or ninth grade provide mixed evidence of positive outcomes, with increased achievement when policies include strong supports for struggling students. The authors conclude with a call for studies that examine the relationship among algebra policies, instruction, and student outcomes to understand the mechanisms by which policies can lead to success for all students.
A comparative prospective study of handsewn versus stapled anastomosis in lower gastrointestinal surgeries
Authors: Belbase Narayan Prasad , Jalan Aditya , Patowary Bhupendra Nath , Kumar Sujit
Published: December 2017

Background & Objectives: Though abdominal surgery has been practiced for many centuries, the optimal technique for anastomosis of small bowel and large bowel remains controversial. This study was conducted with objective to compare the outcome of stapled and handsewn technique of anastomosis of the lower gastrointestinal tract.Materials & Methods: This prospective study was done in the Department of General Surgery and Surgical Gastroenterology, College of Medical Sciences, Bharatpur in the period between 1st October 2014 to 30th September 2015. A total of 50 patients who underwent resection and anastomosis for various conditions of small bowel and large bowel were alternatively placed in handsewn and stapled group. Both the groups were compared in terms of mean time required to perform the intestinal anastomosis, mean operating time, postoperative complications like anastomotic leak rate and wound infection rate, and the time of postoperative hospital stay.Results: The mean duration to perform the intestinal anastomosis was 32.04±4.51 minutes in the handsewn group and 11.00±1.91 minutes in the stapled group(p<0.001).The mean operative time was 147.12±20.91 minutes in the handsewn group versus 132.52 ± 15.71 minutes in the stapled group(p<0.05). The mean duration of postoperative hospital stay was 9.04±2.77 days in the handsewn group versus 8.44 ± 2.32 days in the stapled group (p>0.05). There was no significant difference in the anastomotic leak rate and surgical site infection rate among the two groups.Conclusion: Stapling technique can significantly reduce the time for the anastomotic procedure and also the duration of the operation. However, there was no difference in the rate of anastomotic leak and wound infection between the handsewn and stapled anastomosis. Therefore, stapled anastomosis can be considered a better option over handsewn bowel anastomosis.
Knowledge on obstetric danger signs among antenatal mothers attending a tertiary level hospital, Nepal
Authors: Thapa Binu , Manandhar Krishnaa
Published: December 2017

Background & Objectives: All pregnant women are at risk and can face problems at any time during or following pregnancy and childbirth which can cause death of mothers. Knowledge of key danger signs is essential for motivating women to seek skilled attendance at birth and also to seek referral in case of complications which definitely improves health of the mother and newborns. This study aimed to assess pregnant womens’ knowledge about obstetric danger signs and its associated factors.Materials & Methods: Quantitative approach with a facility based cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant mothers attending Anti Natal Clinic of Dhulikhel hospital, Nepal. Data was collected from 1st June to 25th June 2017. Sampling technique was non probability, purposive sampling technique. A standardized tool was adopted. Face to face interview technique was used. Data had been processed by SPSS 20 version then analyzed using descriptive as well as inferential statistic.Results: Two third of the respondents (66.0%) had adequate knowledge on obstetric danger signs, while 21.0% of respondents had inadequate knowledge and few respondents (13.0%) had moderate knowledge on that. Age, educational status and gravida were not significantly associated with knowledge on obstetric danger signs but occupation and trimester of pregnancy were found to be associated with the same.Conclusion: A significant proportion of pregnant women do not have adequate knowledge on obstetric danger signs. Therefore, the quality of health information about obstetric danger signs during ANC follow up is to be improved.
Risk factors for ST- Elevation Myocardial Infarction in a tertiary hospital in central Nepal
Authors: Dhungel Sachin , Laudari Shankar , Dubey Laxman , Panjiyar Rajesh , Upadhyay Hari , Subramanyam G
Published: December 2017

Background & Objectives: Coronary artery disease is the common cardiac disease in Nepal. The objective of the study is to explore different risk factors for coronary artery disease.Materials & Methods: This was cross sectional  hospital based study studying the baseline clinical and angiographic characters in ST Myocardial infarction who had Primary Percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in College of Medical Science Teaching Hospital (CMSTH).Results: There were 95 cases with male 77 (82.1%)   and female 18 (17.9%). The mean age overall was 60.05 ± 12.2. The mean age of male was 59.9 ± 12.5 and of female was 60.5 ± 11.2 years. Apart from chest pain, common clinical symptoms were sweating in 60 (63.2%) cases, dyspnea in 41 (43.2%), nausea/vomiting in 38 (40%), dizziness in 17 (17.9%) and epigastric pain in nine (9.5%) cases. Common risk factors were smoking in 83 (87.7%) cases, hypertension 59 in (51.6 %), diabetes in 24 (25.3%), dyslipidemia in 24 (25.3%) and family history in six (6.3%) cases. Common angiographic variables were single vessel disease (SVD) in 45 (47.4%), double vessel disease (DVD) in 20 (21.1%) and triple vessel disease (TVD) in 30 (31.6%) cases. Infarct related artery were Right coronary artery (RCA) in 43 (45.3%), Left circumflex artery (LCx) in seven (7.4 %) and Left anterior descending artery (LAD) in 45 (47.4 %) cases.Conclusion: Patients visiting CMSTH had classical symptoms and risk factors of myocardial infarction. Single vessel disease and Left anterior descending infarction was the most common vessel involved.
Case report: An interesting case of large colloid goiter with dyspnea
Authors: Mayya Jaya Prakasha , Gautam Nabin , Pokharel Apar , Pandey Bikash
Published: December 2017

Benign nodular goitre is one of the most common endocrine disorder, especially in countries like Nepal where iodine deficiency is endemic. Case History: A 59 years old female presented with large thyroid swelling. Investigations showed it to be colloid goiter compressing the airway. Left hemithyroidectomy was done. Post operative period was uneventful.Discussion: Management of thyroid nodules depends upon assessment of thyroid function, fine needle aspiration cytology and imaging. Surgery is the common method of treatment.
Awareness on Breast Self Examination among Reproductive Age Women
Authors: Shrestha Sarita , Chhetri Sharda , Napit Jenny
Published: December 2017

Background & Objectives: Breast self-examination (BSE) is an inspection by a woman of her breasts to detect breast problem and cancer. The objective of the study was to identify awareness on breast self-examination among the reproductive age women.Materials & Methods: A descriptive study was carried out to find out the awareness on Breast Self-Examination among Reproductive Age Group Women in Kusunti, Lalitpur. 50 women (20 to 45 years) were selected by using purposive sampling technique. Semi structured interview questionnaire was used for data collection.Results: This study showed that more than three fourth respondents (78%) said breast cancer is growth of extra lump in breast.  More than three fourth respondents (82%) said diagnosis of breast cancer in early stage by BSE and only 10% of respondents had knowledge about diagnosing by mammogram. Nearly three fourth (72%) of the respondents had knowledge about meaning of BSE. More than half of the respondents (60%) got the information from health workers. One fourth of the respondents (32%) said that they don’t know about palpation in circular motion.Conclusion: Based on the findings, it is concluded women have awareness on BSE but least only know how to perform it in step wise and majority of women neglects in practicing in period basis. It is recommended that further awareness program should be conducted to fulfill the gap on BSE.
A descriptive epidemiological study of snake bite cases among children in Eastern Nepal
Authors: Aryal Nirjala , Thapa Moon , Singh Umesh , Shrestha Manju
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Snake bite is a significant health issue globally. In Nepal, WHO has estimated more than 20,000 snake bites occurring annually. The prevalence of snake bite in children in Nepal has not been specified yet due to relatively few researches.  This study explores the epidemiological data on snake bite among children below 18 years of age from a snake bite treatment center located at Itahari in the eastern part of Nepal.Methods: This is a descriptive study of the secondary data from treatment records of snake bites among children up to 18 years of age in Samudayek Sarpadansa Upachar Kendra, Itahari, Nepal. The center is located in Army Camp in the eastern plains of Nepal and provides treatment services to all snake bite victims. Recorded data of the patients brought in for treatment in the treatment center from October 2015 to October 2016 were segregated for age group 0 to 18 years and analyzed.Results: Among 395 cases of snake bite in children below 18 years of age, 57% were boys and most were between 11-15 years. The peak season of bite was during monsoon with clustering of 44% cases from 6 PM to 12 AM and lower limb was the most common site of bite. A total of 7.1% of snake bite cases needed treatment with anti-snake venom.Conclusion: Snake bite among children below 18 years of age is more common among boys, especially during monsoon and evenings. Only small portion of snake bites require treatment with anti-snake venom.
En las márgenes de los Estados
Authors: Alès Catherine , Silva Claudia Puerta
Published: December 2017

*Full introduction is in Spanish

This special issue of Regions & Cohesion offers the reader a contemporary Latin American analysis on civic education and political participation of communities and sectors of the population that remain excluded from political and public life in South America and emerge in recent democratic openness and globalization contexts. The contributions examine the civic configuration processes with regard to, or expressed in different forms of, political participation.
Mobile Music, Sensors, Physical Modeling, and Digital Fabrication: Articulating the Augmented Mobile Instrument
Authors: Michon Romain , Smith Julius , Wright Matthew , Chafe Chris , Granzow John , Wang Ge
Published: December 2017

Two concepts are presented, extended, and unified in this paper: mobile device augmentation towards musical instruments design and the concept of hybrid instruments. The first consists of using mobile devices at the heart of novel musical instruments. Smartphones and tablets are augmented with passive and active elements that can take part in the production of sound (e.g., resonators, exciter, etc.), add new affordances to the device, or change its global aesthetics and shape. Hybrid instruments combine physical/acoustical and “physically informed” virtual/digital elements. Recent progress in physical modeling of musical instruments and digital fabrication is exploited to treat instrument parts in a multidimensional way, allowing any physical element to be substituted with a virtual one and vice versa (as long as it is physically possible). A wide range of tools to design mobile hybrid instruments is introduced and evaluated. Aesthetic and design considerations when making such instruments are also presented through a series of examples.
Smoothed Body Composition Percentiles Curves for Mexican Children Aged 6 to 12 Years
Authors: Alpizar Melchor , Peschard Vanessa-Giselle , Escalante-Araiza Fabiola , Altamirano-Bustamante Nelly , Murata Chiharu , Arenas-Pérez Ramón , Rodriguez-Ayala Ernesto
Published: December 2017

Overweight children and childhood obesity are a public health problem in Mexico. Obesity is traditionally assessed using body mass index (BMI), but an excess of adiposity does not necessarily reflect a high BMI. Thus, body composition indexes are a better alternative. Our objective was to generate body composition percentile curves in children from Mexico City. A total of 2026 boys and 1488 girls aged 6 to 12 years old were studied in Mexico City. Body weight, height, and BMI calculation were measured. Total body fat percentage (TBFP) was derived from the skinfold thicknesses, and fat mass (FMI) and free fat mass indexes (FFMI) were calculated. Finally, age- and gender-specifıc smoothed percentile curves were generated with Cole’s Lambda, Mu, and Sigma (LMS) method. In general, height, weight, waist circumference (WC), and TBFP were higher in boys, but FFM was higher in girls. TBFP appeared to increase significantly between ages 8 and 9 in boys (+2.9%) and between ages 10 and 11 in girls (+1.2%). In contrast, FFM% decreased noticeably between ages 8 and 9 until 12 years old in boys and girls. FMI values peaked in boys at age 12 (P97 = 14.1 kg/m2) and in girls at age 11 (P97 = 8.8 kg/m2). FFMI percentiles increase at a steady state reaching a peak at age 12 in boys and girls. Smoothed body composition percentiles showed a different pattern in boys and girls. The use of TBFP, FMI, and FFMI along with BMI provides valuable information in epidemiological, nutritional, and clinical research.
Photonic Structures for Light Trapping in Thin Film Silicon Solar Cells: Design and Experiment
Authors: Ding Yi , Chen Peizhuan , Fan Qi , Hou Guofu
Published: December 2017

One of the foremost challenges in designing thin-film silicon solar cells (TFSC) is devising efficient light-trapping schemes due to the short optical path length imposed by the thin absorber thickness. The strategy relies on a combination of a high-performance back reflector and an optimized texture surface, which are commonly used to reflect and scatter light effectively within the absorption layer, respectively. In this paper, highly promising light-trapping structures based on a photonic crystal (PC) for TFSCs were investigated via simulation and experiment. Firstly, a highly-reflective one-dimensional photonic crystal (1D-PC) was designed and fabricated. Then, two types of 1D-PC-based back reflectors (BRs) were proposed: Flat 1D-PC with random-textured aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) or random-textured 1D-PC with AZO. These two newly-designed BRs demonstrated not only high reflectivity and sufficient conductivity, but also a strong light scattering property, which made them efficient candidates as the electrical contact and back reflector since the intrinsic losses due to the surface plasmon modes of the rough metal BRs can be avoided. Secondly, conical two-dimensional photonic crystal (2D-PC)-based BRs were investigated and optimized for amorphous a-SiGe:H solar cells. The maximal absorption value can be obtained with an aspect ratio of 1/2 and a period of 0.75 µm. To improve the full-spectral optical properties of solar cells, a periodically-modulated PC back reflector was proposed and experimentally demonstrated in the a-SiGe:H solar cell. This periodically-modulated PC back reflector, also called the quasi-crystal structure (QCS), consists of a large periodic conical PC and a randomly-textured Ag layer with a feature size of 500–1000 nm. The large periodic conical PC enables conformal growth of the layer, while the small feature size of Ag can further enhance the light scattering. In summary, a comprehensive study of the design, simulation and fabrication of 1D-PC- and 2D-PC-based back reflectors for TFSCs was carried out. Total absorption and device performance enhancement were achieved with the novel PC light-trapping systems because of their high reflectivity or high scattering property. Further research is necessary to illuminate the optimal structure design of PC-based back reflectors and high solar cell efficiency.
Microstructure and Tribological Performance of TiB2-NiCr Composite Coating Deposited by APS
Authors: Zhang Ning , Zhang Nannan , Wei Xufeng , Zhang Yue , Li Deyuan
Published: December 2017

Nickel chromium (NiCr) powders with different titanium diboride (TiB2) additions (20, 40 and 60 wt %) were prepared with a mechanical alloying method and then sprayed using an air plasma spraying technology. The microstructure and phase composite of the powders and the cross-sections of deposited coatings were analyzed with a scanning electronic microscope and X-ray diffraction. The tribological performance of the coatings was studied using a pin-on-disk tribometer at room temperature. The weight loss of the as-sprayed coating was measured by using a high accuracy weighing balance. Cr3C2-25NiCr coating was produced and tested for comparison. The morphologies of the worn surface were then investigated. Parts of debris with some scratches were found, presenting typical signs of abrasive wear and showing slight adhesive wear on the surface. The 20 wt % additive TiB2 coating demonstrated the highest microhardness and the lowest coefficient of friction. The wear resistance of the metal-ceramic composites coatings was enhanced with the addition of TiB2.
Prediction of Students’ Use and Acceptance of Clickers by Learning Approaches: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Wan Kelvin , Cheung George , Chan Kevin
Published: December 2017

The student response system (a.k.a clickers) had been widely used in classrooms for various pedagogical purposes these years. However, few of the studies examine students learning approaches toward both technology and engagement. The present study adopted a cross-sectional study method to investigate the relationship between students’ user acceptance of clickers, learning approaches, and general engagement in the clicker classes. A group of 3371 university students were investigated by an online questionnaire that contained with Unified Theory of Use and Acceptance of Technology, Study Process Questionnaire, and National Survey of Student Engagement across a two-semester span in 2015 and 2016. A regression analysis had been adopted to examine the relationship between those variables. Results indicated that a deep learning approach significantly predicted all user acceptance domains towards using clickers and significantly predicted several engagement domains such as collaborative learning and reflective and integrative learning. We concluded that deep learners tend to share a constructive attitude toward using clickers, especially when their peers are also using the clickers. While deep learners prefer integration of knowledge and skills from various sources and experiences, we hypothesize that their willingness to integrate clicker activities in their learning process stems from seeing clickers as a medium for consolidation in the learning process. Future research is, therefore, necessary to provide more detailed evidence of the characteristic of deep learners on the qualitative arm or in a way of mixed research method.
UPLC Quantitative Analysis of Multi-Components by Single Marker and Quality Evaluation of Polygala tenuifolia Wild. Extracts
Authors: Xu Rui , Mao Fuying , Zhao Yunsheng , Wang Wenping , Fan Lingling , Gao Xiaojuan , Zhao Jianjun , Tian Hongling
Published: December 2017

The quality control of Polygala tenuifolia Wild. is a major challenge in its clinical application. In this paper, a new strategy for the quality evaluation of P. tenuifolia extracts was verified through reverse-phase ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). The quantitative analysis of multi-components by a single marker (QAMS) was conducted with 3,6′-disinapoyl sucrose as an internal reference substance. Eight components (i.e., sibiricose A5, sibiricose A6, glomeratose A, tenuifoliside A, tenuifoliside B, tenuifoliside C, sibiricaxanthone B, and polygalaxanthone III) were determined based on the relative correction factors. The concentrations of these components were also determined by applying a conventional external standard method. The cosine value confirmed the consistency of the two methods (cosine ratio value >0.999920). Hierarchical cluster analysis, radar plots, and discriminant analysis were performed to classify 23 batches of P. tenuifolia extracts from Shanxi, Hebei, and Shaanxi in China. Results revealed that QAMS combined with radar plots and multivariate data analysis could accurately measure and clearly distinguish the different quality samples of P. tenuifolia. Hence, QAMS is a feasible and promising method for the quality control of P. tenuifolia.
Morphological and Structural Analysis of Polyaniline and Poly(o-anisidine) Layers Generated in a DC Glow Discharge Plasma by Using an Oblique Angle Electrode Deposition Configuration
Authors: Butoi Bogdan , Groza Andreea , Dinca Paul , Balan Adriana , Barna Valentin
Published: December 2017

This work is focused on the structural and morphological investigations of polyaniline and poly(o-anisidine) polymers generated in a direct current glow discharge plasma, in the vapors of the monomers, without a buffer gas, using an oblique angle-positioned substrate configuration. By atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy we identified the formation of worm-like interlinked structures on the surface of the polyaniline layers, the layers being compact in the bulk. The poly(o-anisidine) layers are flat with no kind of structures on their surfaces. By Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy we identified the main IR bands characteristic of polyaniline and poly(o-anisidine), confirming that the polyaniline chemical structure is in the emeraldine form. The IR band from 1070 cm−1 was attributed to the emeraldine salt form of polyaniline as an indication of its doping with H+. The appearance of the IR band at 1155 cm−1 also indicates the conducting protonated of polyaniline. The X-ray diffraction revealed the formation of crystalline domains embedded in an amorphous matrix within the polyaniline layers. The interchain separation length of 3.59 Å is also an indicator of the conductive character of the polymers. The X-ray diffraction pattern of poly(o-anisidine) highlights the semi-crystalline nature of the layers. The electrical conductivities of polyaniline and poly(o-anisidine) layers and their dependence with temperature are also investigated.
ENERGY CONSUMPTION, ECONOMIC GROWTH AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES
Authors: LAPINSKIENĖ Giedrė , PELECKIS Kęstutis , SLAVINSKAITĖ Neringa
Published: December 2017

This paper investigates the relationship between economic growth, greenhouse gas emissions and other factors based on the panel data of 22 countries of the EU in the period 1995–2014. The fixed effect panel model was used as a framework for the analysis. The novel contribution of this paper is that the factors of economic growth, energy consumption, energy taxes as well as R&D were tested in one expanded EKC model, including the data of three Baltic States. The regression coefficients referring to GDP, Energy consumption have a positive sign, while R&D and Energy taxes have a negative sign. The empirical analysis combines two steps of evaluation of panel models of different groups of countries. The results imply that the analysed factors (energy consumption, energy taxes as well as R&D) can be applied to adjust the EKC trend in the region and might be useful for the climate change policy adjustment.
Fundamental Parameters of 87 Stars from the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer
Authors: Baines Ellyn K. , Armstrong J. Thomas , Schmitt Henrique R. , Zavala R. T. , Benson James A. , Hutter Donald J. , Tycner Christopher , Belle Gerard T. van
Published: December 2017

We present the fundamental properties of 87 stars based on angular diameter measurements from the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer, 36 of which have not been measured previously using interferometry. Our sample consists of 5 dwarfs, 3 subgiants, 69 giants, 3 bright giants, and 7 supergiants, and span a wide range of spectral classes from B to M. We combined our angular diameters with photometric and distance information from the literature to determine each star’s physical radius, effective temperature, bolometric flux, luminosity, mass, and age.
Follow-up Observations of SDSS and CRTS Candidate Cataclysmic Variables II*
Authors: Szkody Paula , Everett Mark E. , Dai Zhibin , Serna-Grey Donald
Published: December 2017

Spectra of 38 candidate or known cataclysmic variables are presented. Most are candidate dwarf novae or systems containing possible highly magnetic white dwarfs, while a few (KR Aur, LS Peg, V380 Oph, and V694 Mon) are previously known objects caught in unusual states. Individual spectra are used to confirm a dwarf nova nature or other classification while radial velocities of 15 systems provide orbital periods and velocity amplitudes that aid in determining the nature of the objects. Our results substantiate a polar nature for four objects, find an eclipsing SW Sex star below the period gap, another as a likely intermediate polar, as well as two dwarf novae with periods in the middle of the gap.
A Further Test of Lorentz Violation from the Rest-frame Spectral Lags of Gamma-Ray Bursts
Authors: Wei Jun-Jie , Wu Xue-Feng
Published: December 2017

Lorentz invariance violation (LIV) can manifest itself by an energy-dependent vacuum dispersion of light, which leads to arrival time differences of photons with different energies originating from the same astronomical source. The spectral lags of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) have been widely used to investigate the possible LIV effect. However, all current investigations used lags extracted in the observer frame only. In this work, we present, for the first time, an analysis of the LIV effect and its redshift dependence in the cosmological rest frame. Using a sample of 56 GRBs with known redshifts, we obtain a robust limit on LIV by fitting their rest-frame spectral lag data using both a maximization of the likelihood function and a minimum χ
2 statistic. Our analysis indicates that there is no evidence of LIV. Additionally, we test the LIV in different redshift ranges by dividing the full sample into four redshift bins. We also find no evidence for the redshift variation of the LIV effect.
Protection of Radio Electronic Devices and Electric Circuits from External Electromagnetic Influence
Authors: Vorobiov O. , Matsko O.
Published: December 2017

Based on the existing methodologies of evaluating the effect of powerful electromagnetic pulse on susceptible objects, the following methodology has been developed. The main goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of protection of radio electronic devices and electric circuit equipment. Usually these devices and equipment are part of an industrial facility. Thus, to evaluate the effectiveness of protection, an Electromagnetic Influence (EMI) safety factor was taken as a system elements stability indicator, where the sustainability of the system is characterized by a minimal number of its elements. Sustainability of the system is estimated in stages; the algorithm implementation methodology is introduced with mathematical and physical expressions. These expressions define the degree of EMI energy neutralization that penetrates through intakes in the screens.
Optimization of Defence Ability of Defence Structures by Using Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Vu D. H. , Baláž T. , Racek F.
Published: December 2017

The article is focused on the calculation of defence structures’ survival probability based on the Monte Carlo method. Besides, the blast resistance of defence structures is optimized due to the protection and expense requirements. The article also reviews properties of defence structures, characteristics of projectiles, and factors influencing on the structure’s survival ability. To solve the problem, the computer simulation program has been developed and used for evaluating and optimizing the issue in various battle scenarios.
Organisational Aspects of Air Show Safety and Security
Authors: Hać R. , Kozuba J.
Published: December 2017

Every year, there are a dozen or so air shows organised in Poland. Their character varies from flying club shows, through air picnics, which are getting more and more popular, to big civil-military international air shows. Their organisation demands the involvement of many institutions and a close cooperation of them at every level, of the event planning and execution, as well as ensuring safety by maintaining operational readiness, of the resources engaged in the show. The character of the air show leads us to a conclusion that the whole security system (ensuring air and ground safety) needs to be organised in such a way that it will meet high safety standards at all stages of the process. The aim of this work is to develop a coherent concept of planning, organisation and implementation of an air show with all necessary safety regulations, as well as taking into consideration possible safety hazards and risks which may occur. To solve this problem, the author tries to answer the following question: What kind of factors needs to be taken into consideration during the air show preparation in order to maintain its required level of safety and security?
Robust Autopilot Design and Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation for Air to Air Guided Missile
Authors: Mohamed A. , El-Sheikh G. A. , Ouda A. N. , Youssef A. M.
Published: December 2017

This paper proposed a robust autopilot design for air to air guided missile and a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulation which is based on the derived missile-control transfer functions and the 6DOF simulation model. The introduced autopilot is implemented within the 6DOF simulation to check its robustness against non-modeled dynamics and nonlinearities. The nonlinear 6DOF equations of motions are solved together to obtain the pitch and yaw transfer functions. The missile equations are described in the form of modules programmed within the C++ environments to form the baseline for subsequent design and analysis. Furthermore, a comparison between both our previous work, i.e. classical and robust autopilot, are justified via HIL simulation. The simulation results demonstrated the robustness capability in presence disturbance and noise.
Les comportements financiers des Européens pendant la crise
Authors: Babeau André
Published: December 2017

L'évolution du taux d'épargne des ménages est trop souvent commentée indépendamment de celle du recours au crédit. Indépendamment aussi de l'emploi qui est fait de l'ensemble des ressources financières dont ils disposent (épargne et nouveaux crédits) ; ces emplois sont au nombre de trois : remboursements d'emprunts, placements financiers et financement direct des apports personnels nécessaires à l'acquisition de biens durables. Les rapprochements nécessaires exigent, il est vrai, certaines informations encore trop rares (par exemple, le montant des « vrais » remboursements). Au cours des années 1995-2012, le recours au crédit a probablement été l'un des déterminants majeurs des comportements d'épargne des Européens : le reflux du crédit à partir de 2007 a été très généralement associé à une remontée des taux d'épargne, mais, en matière d'emplois, à une baisse des placements financiers. De même, dans les comparaisons internationales, les pays à faible taux d'épargne (Portugal, Norvège, Royaume-Uni, par exemple) recourent généralement beaucoup au crédit et font ressortir des montants de placements financiers assez importants. Classification JEl : D14, E21, G01, N14.
Enjeux relationnels et limites d’application des directives anticipées : étude qualitative exploratoire auprès de médecins
Authors: Eon Béatrice , Paul Merlin , Cannone Patrice , Le Coz Pierre , Dany Lionel
Published: December 2017

Dans le contexte du développement des directives anticipées (DA) en France depuis 2016, notre étude avait pour objectif d’étudier les connaissances, représentations et modalités d’intégration de ce dispositif auprès de médecins. Nous avons conduit une recherche qualitative monocentrique par entretiens de recherche auprès de médecins (n = 12). Une analyse de contenu thématique a été réalisée sur l’ensemble des entretiens. L’analyse de contenu des entretiens a mis en évidence une connaissance relative des DA, des réserves quant au rôle des médecins par rapport à ce dispositif et un ensemble de limites perçues concernant leur mise en œuvre (complexité des situations de fin de vie ; impact sur la relation de soin ; répercussion psychologique ; incertitude ; caractère « changeant » des DA ; culture des services de soins). Des limites d’ordre psychosocial expliquent en partie les réticences concernant ce dispositif et contribuent à une mise en question de sa « légitimité » ou « utilité ». L’enjeu du développement des connaissances sur les DA doit s’accompagner d’une réflexion sur les conditions psychosociales de son acceptabilité et de son intégration dans les pratiques et la relation soignantes.
Los inventarios post mortem de la Valencia medieval. Una fuente para el estudio del consumo doméstico y los niveles de vida
Authors: Almenar Fernández Luis
Published: December 2017

Los inventarios post mortem de la Valencia bajomedieval apenas han sido sometidos a algunas cuestiones básicas sobre su naturaleza ¿Qué los distinguía de otras listas de bienes y cuál era su fundamentación legal? ¿Por qué se realizaban? ¿Qué bienes recogían y cuáles omitían? ¿Cuántos inventarios se conservan en la actualidad? ¿Qué sectores de la sociedad medieval los solicitaban? Las respuestas que proporciona este artículo hacen evidente la potencialidad de un uso seriado y cuantitativo del inventario valenciano para el estudio del consumo doméstico, una vía de análisis que permitiría medir con precisión cambios en los niveles de vida de la sociedad bajomedieval a un nivel muy difícil de lograr en otras regiones de Europa.
Al servicio del rey. Sobre la carta real diplomática de la Corona de Aragón (1336-1458)
Authors: Mandingorra  Llavata María Luz
Published: December 2017

El objetivo de este artículo es reconstruir la evolución morfológica de la carta real diplomática catalanoaragonesa entre los reinados de Pedro el Ceremonioso y Alfonso el Magnánimo. A lo largo de este período, esta tipología documental, siguiendo los principios del Ars dictaminis, adaptó sus características externas e internas a las acciones jurídicas que contenía y a sus destinatarios, sin renunciar por ello a su simplicidad material y textual. Con su adecuación a las necesidades comunicativas de la monarquía, la carta real diplomática se convirtió en un instrumento de gobierno que contribuyó al fortalecimiento del poder real y anticipó formas que alcanzarán su pleno desarrollo en época moderna.
Juan de Guzmán, el Póstumo, en el Cancionero de Baena
Authors: Chas Aguión Antonio
Published: December 2017

Juan de Guzmán forma parte del amplio grupo de poetas cancioneriles del que apenas se conocen datos, pues su corpus, tal como ha llegado a nuestros días, consta de seis textos, todos ellos en una misma serie poética que intercambió con Juan Alfonso de Baena. Pero, pese a la exigüidad de su obra conservada, no se trata de un mero poeta ocasional, sino de una figura reconocida entre sus coetáneos. En este trabajo pretendo dotar de entidad a este poeta, ubicándolo en un contexto histórico y poético determinado, al tiempo que ofrezco huellas de otras obras suyas hoy perdidas.
Design and Implementation of English Reading Examination System Based on WEB Platform
Authors: Guo Lan , Zhao Zhiyu , Bai Lu , Lv Jing , Zhao Xin
Published: December 2017

For the self-assessment and practice-based improvement of students' English reading level, this paper designed an English reading test system based on the WEB platform, which will enrich the methods for students to improve their reading ability and will advance the informatization level of English tests. The system adopts the browser / server architecture with the back-end database SQL Server as the database management system and C # and ASP.NET as the programming language to meet multiple needs of English reading examinations and achieve the informatization management of English reading examinations. The design and implementation of the English reading examination system based on the WEB platform will not only improve the efficiency of the examination management, but also drive students to actively learn English reading, with certain application value.
Application of Data Mining in Library-Based Personalized Learning
Authors: Luo Lin
Published: December 2017

this paper expounds to mine up data with the DBSCAN algorithm in order to help teachers and students find which books they expect in the sea of library. In the first place, the model that DBSCAN algorithm applies in library data miner is proposed, followed by the DBSCAN algorithm improved on demands. In the end, an experiment is cited herein to validate this algorithm. The results show that the book price and the inventory level in the library produce a less impact on the resultant aggregation than the classification of books and the frequency of book borrowings. Library procurers should therefore purchase and subscribe data based on the results from cluster analysis thereby to improve hierarchies and structure distribution of library resources, forging on the library resources to be more scientific and reasonable, while it is also conducive to arousing readers' borrowing interest.
Le Brun et le portrait équestre
Authors: Bril Damien
Published: December 2017

Dès le début de sa carrière, Charles Le Brun a abordé le genre du portrait équestre pour représenter l’autorité monarchique. L’étude croisée de trois portraits équestres – celui, gravé, de Louis XIII ; ceux, peints, du chancelier Pierre Séguier et de Louis XIV – doit permettre de comprendre la place de ces œuvres dans la tradition de ce genre illustré à l’échelle européenne, et d’interpréter l’originalité des apports de Le Brun, en observant la manière dont il utilise la signification dynamique et temporelle qu’induit la présence du cheval pour manifester le déroulement chronologique d’une cérémonie, dans une société où la manifestation rituelle de l’autorité joue un rôle très important dans l’affirmation du pouvoir.