bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrical characteristics of amorphous indium‐tin‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide TFTs under positive gate bias stress
Authors: Kim D. , Cho K. , Woo S. , Kim S.
Published: October 2019

In this Letter, the authors investigate the electrical characteristics of amorphous indium‐tin‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide (a‐ITGZO) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) under positive gate bias stress (PBS). An as‐prepared a‐ITGZO TFT exhibits a mobility of 26.05 cm2/V⋅s, subthreshold swing of 183 mV, threshold voltage of −0.33 V, and on/off ratio of 1.34 × 108. These electrical characteristics deteriorate upon the application of PBS. The proposed experiments and simulations reveal that this deterioration can be attributed to the increase in the density of acceptor‐like conduction band‐tail states and donor‐like Gaussian states within the bandgap of the a‐ITGZO channel material.
Channel fading measurement and statistics of the eCall minimum set of data transmission
Authors: Li Yunrui , Liu John Q. , Brandenburg Jacob C.
Published: October 2019

This study presents a testbed for the emergency call (eCall) system satisfying the 3GPP TS 26.267/268/269 standard. Experiments are performed with the in‐vehicle system testbed in a laboratory or a car travelling in city, suburb, countryside or freeway. Sufficient data of the emergency communication signal is recorded and processed. Fading statistics of the received signal after power control are found and discussed with cumulative distribution function of the received signal power, level crossing rate and average fade duration. It is found that with probability less or equal to , fading and attenuation can vary from  dB for the continuous wave (CW) signal at 500 Hz to  dB for the CW signal at 2000 Hz. It is recommended to move the CW signals at 500 and 800 Hz for detection and synchronisation in the 3GPP standard to be at 1500 and 2000 Hz, respectively. This will give 9.5 dB improvement in detection and synchronisation. The longest fade duration observed is 540 ms. The 64 ms synchronisation signal in the current standard is insufficient to handle the fading. It is shown that fading is minimised in the frequency range [1000, 2500] Hz for the 3GPP TS 26.267 system.
Gram–Schmidt orthogonalisation aided hybrid precoding in millimetre‐wave massive MIMO systems
Authors: Zhan Jinlong , Dong Xiaodai , Huo Yiming , Zhang Yu
Published: October 2019

The authors introduce a novel hybrid precoding algorithm based on Gram–Schmidt orthogonalisation (GSO) in millimetre‐wave massive MIMO systems. Specifically, the columns of array response matrix orthogonalised by the GSO process are considered as a set of candidate analogue precoders, then traditional orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) is utilised to find the optimal analogue and digital precoders. Since GSO is a recursive process that depends on the order in which the matrix columns are selected. A heuristic solution to the order of columns selection is suggested according to the array response vector along which the fully‐digital precoder has the maximum projection. The proposed algorithm, not only constrained to uniform linear arrays, can avoid the matrix inversion in designing the digital precoder compared to OMP. Simulation results show that the spectral efficiency and bit error rate of the proposed hybrid precoding solutions are close to that obtained with fully digital architectures. Furthermore, the results indicate that the proposed hybrid precoding solutions outperform the orthogonality‐based matching pursuit, which uses the columns of the DFT matrix as a set of candidate analogue precoders.
Reuse of Byzantine data in cooperative spectrum sensing using sequential detection
Authors: Wu Jun , Song Tiecheng , Yu Yue , Wang Cong , Hu Jing
Published: October 2019

Cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) by exploiting diversity via the observations of spatially located secondary users improves the accuracy of the primary user (PU) detection, but cooperative paradigms are threatened by Byzantine attack. In this study, the authors propose a flexible Byzantine attack model, which goes beyond the existing models for its generalisation. Under this generalised Byzantine attack model, they give insights into the blind scenario where Byzantines make the fusion centre (FC) incapable of deciding the presence of the PU. To solve the blind problem, they formulate data transmission revelation (DTR) as trust reputation management to check consistency of the local decision. Moreover, they evaluate the usability of Byzantine data based on DTR and propose a sequential detection (SD) approach to reuse Byzantine data, which is a remarkable issue involved in CSS, however, ignored by most previous studies. Simulation results clearly reveal that in contrast to other approaches associated with sequential probability ratio test, the proposed SD benefits from Byzantine data to greatly improve the correct sensing ratio and the sample size, and still functions well in the blind scenario.
Assessment of Sentinel‐2A multispectral image for benthic habitat composition mapping
Authors: Wicaksono Pramaditya , Fauzan Muhammad Afif , Asta Septian Galih Widhi
Published: October 2019

Sentinel‐2A accuracy for benthic habitat composition mapping was tested and compared to ALOS AVNIR‐2. Aerial image acquired using custom‐made unmanned aerial vehicle was used to train and validate the model. The mapping was conducted regardless of the benthic class and at individual benthic class. Benthic habitat class spatial distribution was obtained using the combination of image segmentation and classification tree analysis. The aerial image was interpreted based on the percentage of the constructed and non‐constructed classes. The constructed class includes coral reefs, dead coral, seagrass, and macroalgae, while non‐constructed class covers carbonate sand, rock, and rubble. Sentinel‐2A produced higher accuracy (92%) than ALOS AVNIR‐2 (78%) for benthic habitat spatial distribution mapping. However, in the empirical modelling of benthic habitat composition, ALOS AVNIR‐2 (SE 23–24%) produced slightly better accuracy than Sentinel‐2A (SE 23–27%). Several factors affected the low accuracy, which include the sub‐pixel mixing of benthic habitat and constructed class, the delay between dates of acquisition, and radiometric quality of the images. Since the fundamental relationship between reflectance value and the percentage of the constructed class has been justified and consistent, given more experiments it has the potential to predict benthic habitat composition with higher accuracy in the future.
Novel image restoration method based on multi‐frame super‐resolution for atmospherically distorted images
Authors: Li Yinhao , Ogawa Katsuhisa , Iwamoto Yutaro , Chen Yen‐Wei
Published: October 2019

In this study, the authors propose a novel multi‐frame super‐resolution method using frame selection and multiple fusions for atmospherically distorted, zoomed‐in, image‐quality enhancement. When a small part of the image captured by placing a target several kilometres away from the fixed camera is enlarged, the quality of the part becomes poor owing to low resolution, spatial deformations and noise that are mainly caused by long distance and atmospheric turbulence. Thus, the authors propose an adaptive frame selection method that selects only a few frames with small blur based on the corresponding images with relatively clear edges. Further, they propose multiple fusion schemes to reconstruct the selected frames, thereby suppressing the influence of deformation. By converting all the frames into high‐resolution based on each frame and integrating them, deformation and noise are effectively removed without high computation cost using the multiple fusion scheme. The proposed method, which enhances the quality of atmospherically distorted zoomed‐in images, exhibits superior performance than the state‐of‐the‐art image super‐resolution methods with regard to high accuracy, efficiency and ease of implementation, ensuring that the proposed method is suitable for enhancing the quality of an image captured using a general digital camera or a smartphone.
Effective hybrid genetic algorithm for removing salt and pepper noise
Authors: Alaoui Nail , Adamou‐Mitiche Amel Baha Houda , Mitiche Lahcène
Published: October 2019

This study presents a new approach for recovering an image perturbed by salt and pepper noise (SPN) using a hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA) at all densities, called effective HGA (EHGA). The main contribution of the proposed algorithm is combining the genetic algorithm with image denoising methods that are integrated into the population to achieve rapid convergence. The idea is to evolve a group of individuals into a number of iterations using crossover and mutation operators. This approach evolves a set of images rather than a set of parameters from the filters. Experimental results of simulation on different images using peak signal‐to‐noise ratio, structural similarity index metric, image enhancement factor and Universal Quality Index show that the proposed algorithm outperforms other methods in removing the SPN qualitatively and quantitatively if the noise density is moderate and high. EHGA also preserves important features such as texture and corners of the image.
DC–DC SIDO converter with low‐voltage stress on switches: analysis of operating modes and design considerations
Authors: Alizadeh Pahlavani Mohammad Reza , Shokati Asl Elias
Published: October 2019

In this study, a new DC–DC single‐input–dual‐output (SIDO) converter is proposed which is able to step up and share the input voltage between the output terminals with constant duty cycle for whole ranges of duty cycles. Due to the fact that the voltage stresses on the semiconductors of the proposed converter are considerably low, the proposed converter can be applied in both low‐ and high‐power applications. This topology can be used instead of two boost converters, which have very improved conversion ratios in comparison with the recently presented step‐up converters. The proposed configuration can be used in many applications such as renewable energy sources and diode‐clamped inverter in the grid‐tied systems. In this paper, steady‐state and small‐signal analyses of the SIDO converter are presented and the simulation and experimental results are extracted and compared. In practical applications that SIDO is needed, using single‐input–single‐output can be a solution, resulting high cost. To reduce the costs, this study proposes a novel topology, which has reduced components and can step up the input voltage into two separate ports. Finally, a prototype circuit with 42 V input and 510 V/372 W and 730 V/381 W outputs are built to validate the theoretical analysis.
Evaluation of high power density achievement of optimum 4‐level capacitor‐clamped DC–DC boost converter with passive lossless snubber circuit by using Pareto‐Front method
Authors: Kasiran Mohd Amirul Naim , Ponniran Asmarashid , Yatim Mohd Hafizie , Itoh Jun‐ichi
Published: October 2019

This study presents the evaluation of the proposed optimum 4‐level capacitor‐clamped DC–DC boost converter (CCBC) for high power density achievement by using Pareto‐Front method. The 4‐level CCBC with considering high switching frequency can greatly reduce the inductor size and volume. High switching frequency caused the switching devices to suffer high semiconductor losses. Consequently, the cooling device volume is increased as well. Thus, this study presents soft‐switching technique in the 4‐level CCBC for semiconductor losses reduction. The combination of optimum design of inductor, improvement of circuit structure and soft‐switching technique may lead to the highest power density of the converter. A 400 W of the 4‐level CCBC converter is designed and experimentally verified. The results show that the inductance and inductor volume required in the 4‐level CCBC is reduced by 88.89 and 80.75%, respectively. Besides, Pareto‐Front curve shows the highest power density of soft‐switching technique with the proposed 4‐level CCBC is 6.51 kW/dm3 at 800 kHz of switching frequency with efficiency of 97.20%.
Physical modeling of the rock bolt interaction with the rock massif
Authors: Skipochka Serhii , Krukovskyi Oleksandr , Serhiienko Viktor , Krasovskyi Ihor
Published: October 2019

The results of the physical modeling of the “rock bolt – rock massif” system are presented. The characteristics of rock bolt free oscillations depending on the degree of its clamping and tension were studied on special test benches. Oscillations were caused by a single hit to the rock bolt end. It has been established, that the relaxation time of rock bolt free oscillations is the most informative parameter for non-destructive testing. Experimental dependences, that connect the informative parameter with the characteristics of the rock bolt fastening quality, have been determined. An optimal scheme for registering the oscillations in the “rock bolt – rock massif” system is proposed. The basic data has been obtained to substantiate the method of non-destructive testing the quality of rock bolt fastening.
Some aspects of modern vision for geoenergy usage
Authors: Dychkovskyi Roman , Tabachenko Mykola , Zhadiaieva Kseniia , Cabana Edgar
Published: October 2019

The paper represents analysis, which have helped to determine tendencies of usage secondary and renewable resources by means of their utilization within the closed ecological complex while implementing integrated cogeneration systems belonging to various sources. Both the current state and prospects of secondary and renewable resources use within the closed complex of a mining enterprise have been considered. Relying upon philosophical approaches as for the formation of a viewpoint concerning responsibility of the modern society to future generations, tendencies to form energy production and energy consumption on the basis of alternative radical technologies have been proposed. The authors have put forward tendencies to change coal mining and coal use while generating the raw material from the abandoned and out-of-balance reserves. Chances to use cogeneration systems by various energy sources have been considered. Formation of the unified power and chemical system to improve economic and ecologic expediency of the proposed measures is the key tendency of energy perfection as well as minimization of impact on the underground mine environment and on the surface to prolong activities of dying mining territories and to reduce social tension.
Issues of photovoltaic installation size choice for a hard coal mine
Authors: Kaczmarzewski Sylwester , Olczak Piotr , Halbina Artur
Published: October 2019

Poland is the leader in hard coal mining in the European Union and in generation of electricity on this basis, it is related also to low generation of energy from renewable energy sources, in particular photovoltaic installations. The paper analyses the potential of PV installations application for the needs of a selected hard coal mine from the Upper Silesian Coal Basin. Using the hourly data on its electricity consumption in 2018 various sizes of PV installations were selected, a simple payback period was calculated as well as the percentage of energy from the installation use for the current mine operations. It has been shown that in the case of a mine, having available 20 MW of ordered power and average consumption of approx. 14 MW, an installation of 20 MWp rating covers approx. 15% of the electricity demand per year, while for 1 o’clock p.m., i.e. the hour at which most frequently the peak consumption occurred, the share in electricity demand coverage by the PV installation of this power on average amounts to approx. 50% per year.
Muck drawing by inclined two-dimensional flow
Authors: Kalinichenko Olena , Fedko Mykhailo , Kushnerov Ivan , Hryshchenko Mykhailo
Published: October 2019

The work aims at studying and developing an efficient option of layer-by-layer muck drawing from the “dead area” of the footwall for the account of forming an inclined limiting contact of the muck ore with the unmined ore massif. The paper presents a detailed technical and economic analysis of factors and conditions impacting efficiency of muck drawing from the footwall “dead area”. The conducted studies of muck drawing on laboratory models considering a modeling scale enable determining optimal parameters of the layer-by-layer ore breaking and, further on, conduct a layer-by-layer muck drawing from the footwall “dead area” with minimum losses and dilution. The article determines regulations of the broken ore layer width considering possible obtaining of maximum muck values. On the basis of the conducted studies there are suggested optimal options of the technology of layer-by-layer breaking and drawing of the muck when forming an inclined limiting contact of the muck ore with the breakage face. The article proves practicability of breaking by inclined layers with formation of a limiting contact of the muck ore with the breakage face and suggests implementation of layer-by-layer muck drawing by an inclined flow.
Justification of the algorithm for selecting the parameters of the elastic lining of the drums of mine hoisting machines
Authors: Zabolotnyi Kostiantyn , Panchenko Olena , Zhupiiev Oleksandr , Haddad Jamil Sami
Published: October 2019

When calculating the stress-strain state of a cylindrical drum of a mine hoisting machine loaded with a metal rope, the stiffness parameters of the elastic lining and frontal surface are taken into account. It is defined that, depending on the values of the radial and bending stiffness of the frontal surface, two zones can be distinguished. If the parameters of the frontal surface fall into the first of them, the stresses in the shell slightly differ from the stresses in the hinged supported shell. The second zone is characterized by a sharp (up to 70%) increase in stresses. An algorithm has been developed for selecting rational parameters of a lined drum, which allows to reduce the stresses in the metal shell by up to 20%.
Combined method for determining the optimal flow distribution plan for mining, urban electric vehicles and for charging stations
Authors: Kravets Viktor , Ziborov Kyryl , Bas Kostiantyn , Fedoriachenko Serhii
Published: October 2019

The increase in the share of electric transport in mining and municipal enterprises in the short term may lead to changes in the structure of the transport fleet of enterprises and can affect the technology of work, in particular, surface mining operations. Changes in technology relate to the need for charging batteries, as well as the appropriate economic and technological planning. Having implemented the combinatorial representation and using the chain diagrams, a new method has been developed for determining the optimal plan of the vehicles flow distribution at the charging station of industrial enterprises, which provides the greatest enterprise profit. The developed mathematical model of vehicle flow at the charging station is compiled taking into account the objective constraints related to the cyclicality of the station loading capacity. The optimal plan for the vehicles flow distribution at the charging station is, based on geometric representations, as the greatest distance from the beginning of the reference to the plane (hyperplane), which passes through the vertex of the polyhedron of the area of admissible solutions and is oriented by the gradient of the target function (enterprise profit). The task becomes urgent in the light of the electrification of industrial transport and the improvement of batteries for them.
Research into the crushing and grinding processes of iron ore with its simultaneous effect by mechanical load and electric field of ultra-high frequency
Authors: Shcherbakov Petro , Tymchenko Svitlana , Buhrym Olha , Klymenko Dina
Published: October 2019

Main properties of the processes of iron ore destruction in terms of its simultaneous effect by mechanical load and electric field of ultra-high frequency have been studied. That was compared with the case when only mechanical load is applied. Theoretically, it has been proved that in the first case, quartz crystals accumulate more energy, and this effect is manifested mostly in terms of resonance. For the first time, the iron ore samples of cubic geometry were tested using a non-uniform volumetric compression unit. Application of the ultrahigh frequency field resulted in ultimate strength reduction by 1.5 – 2.0 times and significant increase in plasticity of the destruction. At the same time, density of the sample destruction energy in a volume unit is significantly lower than that in the case of mechanical load (1.05 and 2.6 MJ/m3, respectively). There is also a tendency of reducing large fraction yield and increasing fine fraction yield along with the increase up to 11% in iron content in the products after grinding. The results of theoretical and numerous experimental studies have been substantiated the necessity to continue the research and development work on adapting the proposed jaw crusher to the production conditions.
Simulation modelling of the rolling stock axle test-bench
Authors: Raksha Serhii , Anofriev Pavlo , Kuropiatnyk Oleksii
Published: October 2019

Wheelset axles are essential parts of railway and mine site rolling stock. For fatigue testing of axles, various test-benches are designed to implement the cyclic loads. The effectiveness of test-bench vibration analysis grows with the use of numerical approach and simulation models created with the aid of visual programming tools. The purpose of the work is to develop and assess the proposed simulation models of test-bench dynamics created with the aid of visual programming tools. Based on mathematical models, the test-bench simulation models of the lever system vibration have been developed. Simulation models are created with the aid of Simulink visual programming tools running under Matlab system. For modelling the components of Simulink, the SimMechanics and DSP System Toolbox Libraries are used. The comparative analysis of proposed models has been made. For the first time, with the aid of Simulink visual programming tools, the set of test-bench vibration simulation models has been obtained in steady-state and transient motion modes for linear task formulation. The proposed S-models allow automation and visualization of the motion dynamics study for test-bench components in order to determine their rational elastic-weight, kinematic and dynamic behavior. Simulation of vibrations was carried out using design parameters of the test-bench metal framework.
Improving operation efficiency of transportation vehicles equipped with a flexible tractive element under conditions of mining enterprises
Authors: Lubenets Mykola , Koroviaka Yevhenii , Rastsvietaiev Valerii , Lubenets Tetiana
Published: October 2019

Usually, basic traffic flows of mining enterprises are effected with the help of transportation vehicles with a flexible tractive element, i.e. belt conveyor, ground ropeway etc. Parameters of transport and operation procedures depend upon mining and geological conditions of mineral mining, technical characteristics, and operation parameters of the transportation vehicles. Objective is to substantiate a new equation of friction of flexible bodies which corresponds to classical concepts of friction of bodies. The methods are based upon the adjustment of common idea of friction of bodies; factors, working upon friction; and solutions of Euler problem on flexible body slip along the fixed block. As a result, common factors of friction of inflexible bodies, i.e. friction force and normal reaction between linearly connected bodies, have been determined; new equation of friction of flexible bodies has been substantiated. Scientific novelty has been represented by means of a new equation of friction of flexible bodies (in the indirect form) which: involves friction force and normal reaction between linearly connected bodies; corresponds to equilibrium conditions of a mechanical system; and coincides with friction law of Coulomb bodies being common one. Practical implication is in the proposed new scientific knowledge giving corrected idea of friction of flexible bodies. The knowledge improves both education level and research level stipulating technological expansion as well as upgrade of transportation vehicles with flexible body. The findings can be applied to improve both efficiency and safety of transportation vehicles with a flexible tractive element under complicated operation conditions; among other things, it concerns mining enterprises.
Actualization of prospects of thermal usage of groundwater of mines during liquidation
Authors: Sadovenko Ivan , Inkin Oleksandr , Dereviahina Nataliia , Khryplyvets Yuliia
Published: October 2019

The aim of the paper is justification of the economically efficient technological scheme for development of a thermal resource of “Stashkov” mine after its closure, ensuring the maintenance of a favorable energy and ecological-hydrogeological regime in the region. A geotechnological scheme of environmentally safe usage of mine water was justified, involving water pumping up to the surface, heat removal and water reverse pumping into the seams. The suggested circulation system is characterized by an increased energy balance, since it is used to extract almost all the groundwater heat, as well as part of the heat of host rocks. In order to estimate the effectiveness of usage of this technology, calculations of usage of mine water as a source of low-potential energy in heat pumps in comparison with other alternatives (groundwater and surface water streams) using Mathcad software were performed, and it was established that this gives great conversion coefficients of mine water. A geotechnological scheme of usage of mine water was developed, which considers heat transfer, filtration direction, velocity and temperature of groundwater during pumping and removal of heat-transfer fluid from an aquifer for heating and cooling of buildings. The mechanism of heat removal in a flooded rock massif of amine during liquidation was studied with justification of environmentally safe usage of mine water.
Studying aerodynamic resistance of a stope involving CAD packages modeling
Authors: Mukha Oleh , Cheberiachko Yurii , Sotskov Vadym , Kamulin Andrii
Published: October 2019

In the article, aerodynamic resistance of the stope face is studied in case of selective mining the coal seam. To carry out the research, the methodology of the computational experiment for evaluating the longwall face aerodynamic resistance influence on the efficiency of airing the stope face has been substantiated. The model of the stope face section, equipped with mining and backfilling mechanized complex based on the serial 1KD90 roof support has been developed in the 3D modeling software SolidWorks. The diagrams of the air stream velocity distribution, when it flows in the cross section of the longwall face working space with different positions of stoping equipment and the values of rock-cutting thickness of the seam bottom (rock ledge) have been obtained in the environment of computational module FlowSimulation. The pressure drop along the length of the aerodynamic model of the stope face section has been assessed. The dependences of the average velocity of the air stream flow on the value of rock-cutting thickness have been obtained. The obtained results can be used to improve and modernize the elements of mining and backfilling mechanized complex of machinery and equipment, as well as the technology for selective mining of thin and very thin coal seams in the Western Donbas.
Methodological approach to creation of the 3D model of an oval-shaped open pit mine
Authors: Moldabayev Serik , Rysbaiuly Bolatbek , Sultanbekova Zhanat , Sarybayev Nurzhigit
Published: October 2019

A 3D model of optimal contours phased development of oval-shaped open pit mines is proposed in the article. It is assumed that with enough accuracy the volumetric contour of the open pit mine is interpolated by an elongated elliptic hyperboloid. The calculation formulas for mineral resources are derived and optimal volumes of overburden are determined depending on the mining phase. In this case, the total number of mining phases is set in advance. The stripping ratio is used as a quality criterion of the optimization task. The problem of optimal control is solved using the Bellman function in dynamic programming. All the necessary calculation formulas are obtained in the final form by solving the optimization problem. Their simplicity and substantiation of each conclusion ensure that the results of this study can be successfully applied in practical calculations of the design and planning of mining operations in open pit mining.
Investigation of processes of rocks deformation and the earth’s surface subsidence during underground coal mining
Authors: Buzylo Volodymyr , Pavlychenko Artem , Borysovska Olena , Saveliev Dmytro
Published: October 2019

Many years of coal production have led to significant changes in the stability of the rock mass and the earth's surface in the territory of the coal mining regions of Ukraine. The reasons for such changes are the increase of fracture and decrease of the strength of rocks, stratification and hanging of rocks in the boundary parts of workings, the presence of interstices in the coal-face workings, large-scale subsidence of the earth's surface, underworking of a considerable number of buildings, structures and infrastructure.
Study on the Urban Rail Transit Sleeper Spacing Considering Vehicle System
Authors: Zou Yu , Wen Yongpeng , Sun Qian
Published: October 2019

To design the optimal sleeper spacing of the track and reduce the vertical vibration of the rail, the influence of the sleeper spacing on the rail vibration is analysed in the vehicle-track vertical coupling model. By comparing the effects of vehicle speed and load on the vibration response of rails under different sleeper spacings, the importance of vehicle system is pointed out. According to the power spectrum density of the vertical rail displacement, the optimal sleeper spacing under the specific line is proposed, and verified via the vibration decay rate. The results show that the sleeper spacing directly affects the first-order Pinned-pinned vibration of the rail, and the effects of the speed and the load on the vibration response are different. In the low-speed section, the impact of the sleeper spacing on the vibration response is smaller, and the larger spacing can be appropriately selected to reduce the number of sleeper to save costs. However, in the high-speed section, the impact is larger, and the speed and the load should be comprehensively considered to select the optimal sleeper spacing.
Comparing Road User Charging Acceptability in the City of Tunis and Damascus
Authors: Shatanawi Mohamad , Boudhrioua Souhir , Mészáros Ferenc
Published: October 2019

Worldwide, multiple studies have been trying to reduce traffic issues without physically changing the road network, this is when the congestion fees strategy has been considered as a favorable solution for the urban traffic issues. A fundamental condition that needs to be checked before the implementation of the road-pricing scheme is the acceptability of both the political and the public parties. The acceptability is so variable and depends on many features and differs from one individual to another, thus, a survey with a set of variant questions might help to understand the expectations and the worries of the citizens and aim to improve them for better effectiveness of the road-pricing project. This report aims, through analyzing the responses of a distributed survey, to evaluate the acceptability of the citizens of Tunis, Tunisia and Damascus, Syria in order to draw a comparison between the two cities. Moreover, it assesses the degree of acceptability and the variable expectations of the implementation of the congestion fees of the two societies.
Game theory in creating supply chain logistics strategy - the possibility of applying a holistic approach
Authors: Rzeczycki A
Published: October 2019

The game theory, due to its potent ial in creat ing behavioral models, can become a tool used in the area of formulat ing or redesigning logist ic st rategies of supply chains (networks). The exist ing research in this field focuses on the analysis of individual decisions in one specific area. The art icle discusses the holist ic approach to this problem by ident ifying exist ing limitat ions and present ing a framework concept for the applicat ion of game theory in the design of supply chain logist ics st rategies. The conclusions were drawn on the basis o f theoret ical literature studies, supply chain surveys (on different level chain part icipants) and laboratory experiment . In results found that the idea of a common interpretat ion of the st rategy and the holist ic applicat ion of game theory in the search fo r opt imal solut ions to decision-making problems requires changing the approach to designing / redesigning the supply chain logist ics st rategy.
Total cost of ownership in pallet pools management
Authors: Sowa Mariusz
Published: October 2019

Every loading pallet, regardless of the type, in order to be considered safe during the operation phase, must meet certain formal requirements already at the implementation stage. The loading pallet marketed has a certain life span. The life of the pallet depends on many factors. First of all, they are related to the physical and economic aging of the product . Physical aging consists in the fact that the materials from which the products have been made lose their properties, and the economic ones are the result of the emergence of new, better products on the market, better meeting the specific needs of recipients. The operational life of the cargo pallet also depends on the organization of the transport process, branch and means of transport as well as the date of its completion. The concept of calculating the total cost of ownership of a reusable loading pallet in logistic processes, proposed in the article, allows to determine the total costs of its operation. It is based on the idea of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which includes total acquisition costs, installation costs, maintenance costs and costs of its disposal over particular time
Quality Engineering with Taguchi Loss Function Method and Improvement of Work Method in Anode Changing
Authors: Siregar Ikhsan
Published: October 2019

One of the companies engaged in aluminum smelting product ion has problems, namely the occurrence of high variations in the removal of new anodes to the old anodes which are influenced by the operator's working method because of unnecessary movements and movements beyond the Anode Changing mechanism set by the company has become a habit of the operator itself, so the time needed to replace the anode is getting longer. This problem causes the company to suffer losses due t o the product ion process that runs not in accordance with established procedures. So, the company needs to calculate the losses incurred due to variations in anode replacement and see how the operator's working method when changing the anode that causes these variations and also has an influence on the anode replacement cycle time. The method used for this problem is Taguchi Loss Function which is used to calculate the losses suffered by the company and improve work methods using the Modular Arrangement of Predermined Time Standards (MODAPTS) method to calculate the processing time. The results obtained using this method are losses experienced by the company in Block 1 amounting to Rp 19,733,263, while the total losses in Block 2 amount to Rp 35,919,435. While for the operator's working method, the operator's work movements are analyzed which are not in accordance with the economic principles of the movement . Comparison of the standard time of actual and proposed work methods is 774.847 seconds and 648.2 seconds with a time difference of 126,647 seconds faster and there are no movements that should not be done so that the operator can use the time to adjust the anode height as well as possible according to the standards determined by the company.
Land Use Change and the European Biofuels Policy: The expansion of oilseed feedstocks on lands with high carbon stocks
Authors: Strapasson Alexandre , Falcão Juliana , Rossberg Timo , Buss Grahame , Woods Jeremy , Peterson Steven
Published: October 2019

The focus of this article is on the potential land use change impacts associated with the oilseed-based biodiesel consumption. The three main crops used for biodiesel production to date are oilseed rape (OSR), soybeans and oil palm. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to provide a technical assessment of potential land use change arising from the growth of these three major crops at global level, obtained through a broad country-level analysis for their respective major producing countries. The article presents an historical data analysis, evaluating the interaction between the expansion and contraction of these three crops over the last three decades (with a closer look from 2008) together with the carbon stock changes to the land. We categorise the land use by its carbon stock and resulting carbon stock changes from land use change. Crops aimed at the production of ethanol, such as maize (corn), sugarcane, wheat, cassava and sugar beet, although extremely relevant for biofuel policies, are not the subject of this present study. While we did not know at the time of writing this report how the term “significant” would be defined in the EU delegated act we concluded from the analysis of the historical data and using the high ILUC-risk definition as it stands, that the emissions associated with palm and soy are significant. For oil palm, we take Indonesia and Malaysia as proxy for the global position. We calculate an average expansion of 29% on high carbon stock land. For soy, we calculate a global average of 19% expansion. We calculate the global average greenhouse gas emissions intensities based on the ILUC-risks as 56 gCO2eq/MJ for soy oil and 108 gCO2eq/MJ for palm oil. Future projections (OECD-FAO, 2017) suggest these numbers could drop significantly. We do not find evidence for high ILUC-risk expansion of oilseed rape.
The fitness to work certificate in a worker exposed to ionizing radiation with an oncological disease: criteria and assessment process
Authors: Taino G. , Oddone E. , Corona G. , Foti R. , Imbriani M.
Published: October 2019

To assess the fitness to work certificate in employees both affected by neoplasia and exposed to ionizing radiation always represents a clinical and professional issue, as well as human and social. The aim of our study is to analyze the case of a 40-year-old clinician (woman, endoscopist, gastroenterologist) who underwent left mastectomy and breast reconstruction with a tissue expander, professionally exposed to ionizing radiation. Due to the presence of the BRCA1 gene mutation and the presence of breast and ovarian cancer familiarity, the patient also underwent a prophylactic right mastectomy and bilateral oophorectomy. According to Italian legislation and international guidelines, several elements and criteria have been taken into account to release the fitness to work certificate in this peculiar case of a female worker exposed to ionizing radiation, resulting in a final positive indication.
Facets based on cycles and cliques for the acyclic coloring polytope
Authors: Braga Mónica , Marenco Javier
Published: October 2019

A coloring of a graph is an assignment of colors to its vertices such that any two vertices receive distinct colors whenever they are adjacent. An acyclic coloring is a coloring such that no cycle receives exactly two colors, and the acyclic chromatic number χA(G) of a graph G is the minimum number of colors in any such coloring of G. Given a graph G and an integer k, determining whether χA(G) ≤ k or not is NP-complete even for k = 3. The acyclic coloring problem arises in the context of efficient computations of sparse and symmetric Hessian matrices via substitution methods. In a previous work we presented facet-inducing families of valid inequalities based on induced even cycles for the polytope associated to an integer programming formulation of the acyclic coloring problem. In this work we continue with this study by introducing new families of facet-inducing inequalities based on combinations of even cycles and cliques.
Master Athletes and cognitive performance: What are the potential explanatory neurophysiological mechanisms?
Authors: Dupuy Olivier , Goenarjo Roman , Fraser Sarah Anne , Bherer Louis , Bosquet Laurent
Published: October 2019

Regular physical activity has been recognized as an effective strategy for limiting the cognitive decline observed during aging. Much evidence has supported that maintaining a high level of physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with better cognitive performances across the lifespan. From childhood to adulthood, a high level of physical activity will have a positive impact on cerebral health. More specifically, executive performance seems to be preferentially affected by the level of fitness. This is partly because the prefrontal cortex, which governs these functions, seems to be very sensitive to physical activity levels. Today many neurophysiological mechanisms that explain the improvement of the cognitive performance are relatively well identified. A question then arises as to what is the optimal dose of physical activity to observe these effects on our brain. An example of successful aging is the example of the Master Athletes. This category of people who have been training and competing throughout their lives, demonstrate high levels of fitness induced by a high level of physical activity. Some studies seem to confirm that Master Athletes have better cognitive performances than sedentary or less active subjects. The aim of this review is to identify studies assessing the cognitive performance of Master Athletes and report on the probable neurophysiological mechanisms that explain the cognitive benefits in this population.
Einleitung des nicht nüchternen Patienten: Welche Medikamente sind zu verwenden?
Authors: Stäuble Christiane G. , Blobner Manfred
Published: October 2019

Die Rapid Sequence Induction beschreibt ein nicht evidenzbasiertes Anästhesieverfahren zur Narkoseeinleitung bei nicht nüchternen Patienten. Ziel dieser Einleitungstechnik ist es, den anästhesierten Patienten ohne Zwischenbeatmung zügig endotracheal zu intubieren, um das Risiko für eine Aspiration zu minimieren. Der Beitrag gibt Empfehlungen für das anästhesiologische Management nicht nüchterner Patienten und verweist insbesondere auf die für die RSI benötigten Medikamente.
Einleitung des nicht nüchternen Patienten: Welche Techniken sind zu verwenden?
Authors: Knoth Selena , Weber Benedict , Croll Marlene , Lotz Hartmut , Eberhart Leopold
Published: October 2019

Die Rapid Sequence Induction and Intubation (RSII) ist das Anästhesieverfahren der Wahl bei aspirationsgefährdeten Patienten, die sich einem operativen Eingriff in Allgemeinanästhesie unterziehen müssen. Die klassische RSII beschränkt sich auf wenige Behandlungsempfehlungen. Diesen liegen selten evidenzbasierte Erkenntnisse zugrunde. Neue Techniken (z. B. Videolaryngoskopie) sowie neue Diagnostika (z. B. Sonografie) erfordern eine Reevaluation der traditionell praktizierten Techniken. In diesem Artikel werden nichtpharmakologische Behandlungsstrategien der RSII behandelt und alte sowie neue Methoden zur Minimierung des Aspirationsrisikos kritisch diskutiert. Zu diesen gehören neben der Magensonde und der Magensonografie die Abläufe rund um die Narkoseeinleitung, wie Lagerung, Zwischenbeatmung, Relaxometrie sowie der Krikoid- bzw. linksparatracheale Druck. Innerklinisch müssen allen Teammitgliedern Behandlungsstandards für die RSII bekannt und die Abläufe etabliert und eingeübt sein. Ziel dieses Artikels ist es, Systematiken darzustellen, die eine Entscheidungsgrundlage für lokale Handlungsanweisungen bilden können.
Einleitung von nicht nüchternen Patienten am Beispiel von Schwangeren und Kindern
Authors: Becke Karin , Jöhr Martin , Girard Thierry
Published: October 2019

Die klassische Technik der Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI) ist eine fundamentale Form der Anästhesieeinleitung bei nicht nüchternen Patienten zur Verhinderung der Aspiration von Mageninhalt. Schwangere und Kinder sind aufgrund ihrer Hypoxiegefährdung eine besondere Herausforderung; das klassische RSI-Konzept „Induktion – Apnoe – (Krikoiddruck –) Intubation“ muss bei ihnen zugunsten einer kontrollierten Technik mit Erhalt der Oxygenierung modifiziert werden.
Does endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy using a Franseen needle really offer high diagnostic accuracy? A propensity-matched analysis
Authors: Fujita Akashi , Ryozawa Shomei , Mizuide Masafumi , Araki Ryuichiro , Nagata Koji , Tanisaka Yuki , Harada Maiko , Ogawa Tomoya , Tashima Tomoaki , Nonaka Kouichi
Published: October 2019

Background and study aims This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic accuracy and utility of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) performed using a Franseen needle on solid pancreatic lesions.

Patients and methods This study included 132 consecutive lesions sampled by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) using a 22-G conventional needle and 95 consecutive lesions evaluated by EUS-FNB using a 22-G Franseen needle to evaluate solid pancreatic lesions at our medical center between July 2013 and November 2018. We used propensity-matched analysis with adjustment for confounders. Patient data were analyzed retrospectively.

Results Diagnostic accuracy was higher in the Franseen needle group (Group F; 91.6 %, 87 /95) than in the conventional needle group (Group C; 86.3 %, 82 /95), showing no significant difference (P = 0.36). In Group F, diagnostic accuracies for pancreatic head lesions and lesions sampled by transduodenal puncture were 98.0 % (48/49) and 97.9 % (46/47), respectively. These values were significantly higher than values in Group C (P = 0.013, 0.01). Group F displayed a significantly lower number of punctures. In terms of differentiating benign from malignant lesions, Group C showed 85.1 % sensitivity (74/87), 100 % specificity (8/8), 100 % positive predictive value (74/74), and 38.1 % negative predictive value (8/21), compared to values of 90.1 % (73/81), 100 % (14/14), 100 % (73/73), and 63.6 % (14/22), respectively, in Group F. Sensitivity and negative predictive value were better in Group F.

Conclusions Franseen needles for EUS-FNB of solid pancreatic lesions offer similar puncture performance at different lesion sites while requiring fewer punctures than conventional needles.