bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To debate or not debate? Examining the effects of scientists engaging in debates addressing contentious issues
Authors: Morin David
Published: October 2018

According to the Gateway Belief Model, scientists and science educators should stress the scientific consensus when engaging with the lay population across a wide variety of mediums, including debates. The purpose of this study, then, was to determine if engaging in such debates does more harm than good in terms of persuading individuals towards accepting the scientific consensus of controversial issues. Participants (N = 208) read a manipulated debate segment altered by the issue discussed as well as the position/title of the skeptic debater. Results indicate that it is possible to influence individuals exposed to these debate segments, but the effects are issue-contingent. Limitations and future research related to science education are discussed.
Is Plague Globally Reemerging?
Authors: Rodriguez-Morales Alfonso J. , Escalera-Antezana Juan Pablo , Alvarado-Arnez Lucia E.
Published: October 2018

Is Plague Globally Reemerging?
Factores asociados al desarrollo de tuberculosis pulmonar multidrogoresistente en el departamento de Piura, Perú 2009–2014
Authors: Bazán-Ruiz Susy , Ancajima-More Edgar J. , Lachira Albán Arnaldo , Mejia Christian R.
Published: October 2018

Objetivo: Conocer los factores socio-económicos asociados para el desarrollo de tuberculosis pulmonar (TB) multidrogo resistente (MDR) en la población piurana durante los años 2009-2014.Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional en pacientes con TB-MDR y no MDR. Se tomaron los datos de los expedientes de la Estrategia Sanitaria Prevención y Control de Tuberculosis, de la Dirección Regional de Salud del departamento de Piura. Se realizó un análisis estadístico de asociación y sus intervalos de confianza, con el uso de modelos lineales generalizados.Resultados: Los factores que tuvieron asociación a la TB-MDR fueron el ser diagnosticados como fracaso de tratamiento al ingreso, el tener un contacto con un paciente TB-MDR/XDR, el que haya tenido un tratamiento irregular, el ser catalogado como fracaso comprobado, el haber tenido un antecedente de tratamiento y que este tratamiento haya sido con varias drogas. En el análisis multivariado, el único que mantuvo la asociación fue el antecedente de ser paciente multitratado RP=4,47 (IC95%: 1,28-15,63).Conclusiones: El haber sido multitratado mostró una gran asociación con la mayor frecuencia de desarrollar TB-MDR, por lo que puede ser tomado en cuenta como un estudio base, desarrollado en una ciudad del norte del Perú y que comparte características con otras ciudades nacionales y de otros países de realidades similares.
Caracterización de los pacientes con diagnóstico de Histoplasmosis en el Hospital Universitario de San Ignacio entre 2012 a 2016
Authors: Cuéllar Isabel Cristina , Garzón Javier Ricardo , Muñoz Velandia Óscar , Ballén Diego Felipe
Published: October 2018

Introducción: La histoplasmosis diseminada es una forma de presentación común en pacientes inmunosuprimidos. La introducción de nuevos métodos diagnósticos y la mejoría de la sobrevida de los pacientes con VIH pueden hacer cambiar las características clínicas de los pacientes con esta enfermedad. El objetivo de este estudio es describir las características demográficas, clínicas y métodos diagnósticos para esta enfermedad utilizados en una institución de cuarto nivel de complejidad en Colombia durante los últimos cinco años.Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional tipo serie de casos, incluyendo pacientes con diagnóstico de histoplasmosis manejados en el Hospital Universitario San Ignacio en Bogotá (Colombia) entre enero de 2012 y diciembre de 2016. Los casos fueron identificados utilizando una herramienta automatizada a partir de las historias clínicas electrónicas (DISEARCH).Resultados: 34 pacientes fueron incluidos, 73,5% con VIH. La enfermedad fue más sintomática en los pacientes con VIH. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron fiebre y tos (80%), seguidas por diarrea (47%) y manifestaciones cutáneas (35%). El estudio histopatológico fue el método de confirmación más frecuente. El antígeno urinario, fue positivo en el 92.8% de los pacientes a quienes se les realizó la prueba. Las enfermedades autoinmunes fueron la principal causa asociada en pacientes VIH negativos.Conclusiones: Las características clínicas de los pacientes con histoplasmosis son similares a las descritas en estudios previos en colombia, llamando la atención la alta prevalencia de diarrea y manifestaciones cutáneas. El antígeno urinario para histoplasma y las biopsias cutáneas son excelentes métodos diagnósticos, menos invasivos y con resultados rápidamente disponibles.
Screening for intestinal parasites in adults from three different regions of Colombia
Authors: Carvajal-Restrepo Hernán , Orrego-Morales Clara , Vega-Orrego Tatiana , Arango-Arango Susana , Buitrago-Agudelo Daniela , Maya-Betancourt María Clara , Maya-Betancourt Verónica , Restrepo-Álvarez Laura , Silva-Cáceres Nicolle , Suarez-Urquijo Sasha , Massaro-Ceballos Mónica , Romero-Montoya Marcela , Sánchez-Jiménez Miryan , Cardona-Castro Nora
Published: October 2018

Intestinal parasitosis (IP) is a public health problem in developing countries affecting one fourth of the global population. IP are common studied in children, neglecting the adults that are also at high risk and source of transmission. A screening study was performed with a convenience sample in three Colombian regions: Guachené (Cauca), Quibdó (Chocó), and Urabá (Antioquia). Feces samples from 284 volunteers (older than 18 years old) were tested by microscopy to identify parasite ova and cysts. The IP frequency was 14.5%, and 52.1% were males. 63.2% of the parasitized patients exhibited diarrhea, and/or abdominal pain with significant association. 39.5% had single parasitic infection and 60.5% had multiple parasites: Blastocystis hominis (63.9%), Entamoeba hystolitica/dispar (39.4%), Endolimax nana (33.3%), Ascaris lumbricoides (22.2%), Giardia lamblia (19.4%), Entamoeba coli (13.9%), Trichuris trichiura (11.1%), hookworm species (11.1%), Strongyloides stercolaris (5.6%), and Iodamoeba butschlii (2.8%). A multivariate approach was used to determine predictor factors for IP: male gender, rainwater as drinking source, and feces disposal different to toilet, latrine or septic tank were positively associated with infection. This study evidences that adult population, not only children from vulnerable areas of Colombia, must have to include as a risk for intestinal parasitism.
Micosis rino-orbito-cerebral: coinfección por Aspergillus sclerotiorum y Rhizopus microsporum en un huésped inmunosuprimido. Reporte de un caso
Authors: García Posada Mara Judith , García Allende Natalia , Radosta Mariana Florencia , Sánchez Ana Victoria , Maldonado Ivana
Published: October 2018

Las micosis rino-cerebral, rino-orbito-cerebral y sinusopulmonar ocasionadas por especies de Mucorales y de Aspergillus se constituyen como una causa importante de infección fúngica invasora asociada a una mortalidad mayor al 30%. La coinfección por dos o más especies en la forma rino-orbito-cerebral es infrecuente. Se describe un paciente con linfoma no Hodgkin, expuesto a múltiples esquemas quimioterápicos, en remisión completa, que presentó micosis con compromiso rino-orbito-cerebral por Aspergillus sclerotiorum y Rhizopus microsporum de rápida progresión con necesidad de tratamiento quirúrgico agresivo y terapia antifúngica sistémica y local.
COMPARISON OF BETA-HCG TITRATION AT BASELINE AND 4TH DAY AFTER SINGLE DOSE OF METHOTREXATE IN PATIENTS WITH ECTOPIC PREGNANCY IN PREDICTING THE SUCCESS OF PHARMACOTHERAPY
Authors: TAYEBEH JAHED BOZORGAN  , BEHNAZ AMIRNAZARI  , MAHTAB MOTEVASELIAN  , SARAH BAHRAMZADEH  , MARAL BALESH
Published: October 2018

Recent studies have shown that ectopic pregnancy is a potentially life-threatening emergency, accounting for 1% of prevalence. Methotrexate is a folic acid antagonist used as an option for treating ectopic pregnancy. Considering that the drug also has significant side effects, this study tended to treat patients with single-dose regimens and compare beta-hCG titration at baseline and4th day of receiving the drug in predicting the success or failure of pharmacotherapy. The population of this study included EP patients without rupture referring to the Mahdieh Hospital during 2010-2015. This study was designed as a cohort study. First, EP patients without rupture were enrolled in the study. Serum beta-HCG level was examined at baseline and 4th day in all patients treated by single dose methotrexate (50 mg/m2). T-test was used to compare parametric variables. To compare non-parametric variables in two groups, Mann-Whitney U test and Chisquare test were used and Fisher exact test was used, if necessary. Moreover, multi-variableregression analysis was used to predict hCG level for success. The results showed no significant difference in Î²hCG titration at baseline between two successful and unsuccessful groups in response to single dose methotrexate. There were interesting results in reducing Î²hCG titration between baseline and 4th day; this means that 81 (84%) out of 97 patients of the successful group had a decrease in Î²hCG level on the 4th day compared to baseline; therefore, single dose methotrexate was successful in 84% of patients with a 4th day beta drop. This study showed that Î²hCG level decreased on 4th day compared to baseline in 84% of patients who were successful inresponding to a single dose methotrexate. However, Î²hCG level at baseline did not predict successful response to treatment.
Application of spectral graph theory on the enthalpy change of formation of acyclic saturated ketones
Authors: Gligorijevic Ana , Markovic Svetlana , Redzepovic Izudin , Furtula Boris
Published: October 2018

The dependence of the enthalpy change of formation of saturated acyclic ketones on molecular structure (the number of carbon atoms, the position of the carbonyl group, and the branching of the molecules) was investigated. For this purpose, a simple computational model, the parameterization of which is based on spectral graph theory, was developed. It was found that the major part of the enthalpy change of formation is determined by molecular size, whereas the fine structure of the enthalpy change of formation is determined by the branching of the molecule and the position of the carbonyl group. The developed model proved itself very useful for such investigations. The model is simple and practical, and the agreement between the experimental and calculated enthalpy changes of formation is very good, with an average relative error of 0.7%.
Fifteen years of occupational exposure monitoring in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Basic Begzada , Beganovic Adnan , Gazdic-Santic Maja , Skopljak-Beganovic Amra , Samek Davorin
Published: October 2018

The personal dosimetry in Bosnia and Herzegovina started in 1960. After a brief interruption in 1990s, the dosimetry service resumed in 1999. Until 2013, the Radiation Protection Centre of the Institute of Public Health of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina has been the only institution in the country that could provide this service. In 2013, this Center covered more than 70 % (1,485) of all radiation workers in the country. They mostly worked in medical institutions (1,417 or 95.4 %), while others are exposed to radiation sources in industry and veterinary radiology. From 1999 to 2013, the majority of annual doses were less than 1 mSv (96.2 %). There are no registered cases of exceeding the annual dose limit (20 mSv). The results analysis shows the reduction of individual doses in last five years. Newly adopted practices in medicine, such as the positron emission tomography, could cause the increase of doses in the years to come.
Big data - a big deal for sociology?
Authors: Petrovic Jelisaveta
Published: October 2018

The paper critically examines the attitude of the mainstream sociology
towards the study of big data in social sciences. Content analysis of the
scientific papers published in the top-tier sociological journals ranked on
the Thomson Reuters Impact Factor ssci list (2000-2017) shows that, in the
observed period, the issue of big data was largely neglected. This topic is
still rather invisible in the mainstream sociological thought, although it
draws a lot of attention outside the academia. The analysis of big data
within mainstream sociology is dominated by a critical perspective, while the
application of the big data analytics is quite rare. In the concluding
section, the importance of the big data study for sociology is emphasised.
Moreover, it is pointed out at the risk of auto-marginalization in case of
neglecting the ?tectonic? changes induced by the big data analytics in the
space once dominated by the social sciences.
Culture and public administration reforms in postsocialist transformation: The case of Serbia
Authors: Mojic Dusan , Jovancevic Jelena , Jovancevic Sasa
Published: October 2018

The paper deals with cultural embeddedness of public administration
transformations in Serbia during postsocialism. Public administration reform
represents an important aspect of transformation of overall institutional
framework in contemporary societies. According to institutional approach,
the changes of formal institutions (including public administration) are
deeply embedded in informal institutions or culture. Theoretical and
methodological framework of the GLOBE research program has been used as a
basis for the empirical analysis. The goal of the paper has been to identify
the scores on cultural dimensions in Serbia and to analyze the correlation
of these scores with expectations of the public administration reform. The
expected similarity of culture in Serbia with other East European cultures
has been confirmed, as well as hypothesis about its norms and values as
strong informal obstacles for successful public administration reform.
Importance of sociology of sport in education of future professors of physical education and coaches
Authors: Radenovic Sandra , Savovic Branka
Published: October 2018

In the first part of the paper, the authoresses consider the importance of
the sociology of sport as a special sociological discipline and general
education subject for the education of future professors of physical
education and coaches. In this part of the paper will be considered the
thematic units that are being studied within the sociology of sport as an
obligatory subject at the faculties in the Republic of Serbia and some
countries of the region. Special attention will be paid to the sociology of
sport that is being studied as an obligatory subject in the first year of
basic academic studies and at the second year of professional studies at the
Faculty of Sport and Physical Education of the University of Belgrade. In the
second part of the paper, the authorsesses expose the answers of the first
year students of the basic academic studies and the second year students of
professional studies at the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education of the
University of Belgrade regarding the perception of the importance of studying
sociology of sport as a special sociological discipline and general education
subject.
Insulin Initiation and Titration in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Chun Ji , Strong Jodi , Urquhart Scott
Published: October 2018

Insulin initiation and titration can be challenging for many primary care providers who are involved in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes. Despite the introduction of advanced insulin analogs and improvements in insulin delivery devices, many patients with type 2 diabetes continue to experience suboptimal glycemic control. With an increasing number of treatment options available, type 2 diabetes management is moving away from a “one-size-fits-all” approach and toward individualized treatment regimens based on particular patient needs. Given this, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, and certified diabetes educators are becoming increasingly valuable resources in busy primary care practices.
KONTRIBUSI PSIKOLOGI ORANGTUA MURID DALAM PENGELOLAAN LEMBAGA PENDIDIKAN ISLAM: STUDI ANALISIS LAYANAN SDIT BAITUL JANNAH
Authors: Utama Esen Pramudya
Published: October 2018

Lembaga pendidikan dan orang tua memiliki peran penting dalam meningkatkan kecerdasan anak-anak. Sekolah adalah tempat kedua bagi anak-anak untuk mendapatkan pengetahuan dan mengembangkan keterampilan. Sekolah yang bagus dan sesuai dengan karakter anak akan mampu membimbing anak-anak menuju masa depan yang lebih baik. Ada banyak faktor yang mempengaruhi persepsi orang tua memilih sekolah yang terdiri dari faktor internal orangtua, internal sekolah atau lingkungan. Penulis ingin melihat faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi orang tua dalam memilih sekolah berdasarkan indikator internal sekolah. Indikator internal sekolah yang dipertanyakan meliputi: ketepatan, kecermatan dan kecepatan pelayanan, kemampuan dalam menghadapi permasalahan yang timbul, kesediaan dan keterbukaan menerima setiap keluhan, bertanggung jawab atas kualitas produk dan kebijakan penetapan harga yang sesuai, bertangung jawab atas pendidikan agama dan keselamatan, kemudahan dalam memberikan dan menyajikan berbagai informasi, memberikan perhatian khusus kepada anak didik, dan fasilitas serta tata ruang. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menyelidiki bagaimana orang tua memilih sekolah untuk anak-anak mereka, terutama mereka yang tinggal di daerah perkotaan. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian lapangan yang dilakukan di SDIT Baitul Jannah dengan deskriptif kualitatif menggunakan quisioner. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pandangan masyarakat terhadap lembaga pendidikan Islam secara umum telah mengalami dinamika. Sekolah-sekolah Islam sekarang diasumsikan menjadi tren bagi masyarakat perkotaan dan komunitas kelas menengah atas. Keberadaan sekolah-sekolah Islam dengan sistem sekolah siang penuh adalah untuk memenuhi kebutuhan pendidikan masyarakat perkotaan yang sibuk dan cemas dengan pendidikan agama anak-anak mereka.
Railway Towns: a Long-term Global Perspective
Authors: Cuéllar Domingo
Published: October 2018

Railway towns, in their essence, are a specific evolution of the system of company towns, which disseminated during the 19th and 20th centuries. These company towns were characterised by communities of workers employed by the same company or group of companies, which owned the houses and infrastructures and exerted some sort of control over the town’s economic and social living. The model of a garden-city, under which most of the examples studied were developed, was the most common, although not the only one. Despite the relevance of these processes, there are no papers that analyse them in a global perspective and in the long run, but only studies that focus on particular cases with barely any contextualisation. Lest we forget that railway towns grew in tandem with the rail networks all over the world, from the most industrialised and populated areas to the new regions targeted for colonisation. In order to overcome this set of isolated reports of individual railway towns, in this paper, I group the most significant references and studies about railway towns created by different companies in different countries to propose a broader interpretation of the overall phenomenon. Amidst the features intended to be analysed, I highlight the origin and nature of these towns, their forms and urban structures, the most notable case studies, and their future as industrial heritage (questioning the reasons for the current status of the towns, some devoid of their railway functions, others with a lesser presence of the railway, and others almost depopulated).
Changes in Muscle Stiffness of the Trapezius Muscle after Application of Ischemic Compression into Myofascial Trigger Points in Professional Basketball Players
Authors: Kisilewicz Aleksandra , Janusiak Marcin , Szafraniec Rafał , Smoter Małgorzata , Ciszek Bogdan , Madeleine Pascal , Fernández-de-Las-Peñas César , Kawczyński Adam
Published: October 2018

The study aimed to assess the effects of compression trigger point therapy on the stiffness of the trapezius muscle in professional basketball players (Part A), and the reliability of the MyotonPRO device in clinical evaluation of athletes (Part B). Twelve professional basketball players participated in Part A of the study (mean age: 19.8 ± 2.4 years, body height 197 ± 8.2 cm, body mass: 91.8 ± 11.8 kg), with unilateral neck or shoulder pain at the dominant side. Part B tested twelve right-handed male athletes (mean ± SD; age: 20.4 ± 1.2 years; body height: 178.6 ± 7.7 cm; body mass: 73.2 ± 12.6 kg). Stiffness measurements were obtained directly before and after a single session trigger point compression therapy. Measurements were performed bilaterally over 5 points covering the trapezius muscle. The effects were evaluated using a full-factorial repeated measure ANOVA and the Bonferroni post-hoc test for equal variance. A p-value < .05 was considered significant. The RM ANOVA revealed a significant decrease in muscle stiffness for the upper trapezius muscle. Specifically, muscle stiffness decreased from 243.7 ± 30.5 to 215.0 ± 48.5 N/m (11.8%), (p = .008) (Part A). The test-retest relative reliability of trapezius muscle stiffness was found to be high (ICC from 0.821 to 0.913 for measurement points). The average SEM was 23.59 N/m and the MDC 65.34 N/m, respectively (Part B). The present study showed that a single session of compression trigger point therapy can be used to significantly decrease the stiffness of the upper trapezius among professional basketball players.
Opening the “Black Box” of Firm De-internationalisation Processes: What Should We Still Know?
Authors: Trąpczyński Piotr
Published: October 2018

Objective: The purpose of the paper is to review extant research of firm de-internationalisation processes, considering the changing patterns in international operations, as well as the underlying decision-making logic.

Methodology: The paper draws on two process perspectives in management research to refine the understanding of de-internationalisation process and provide a contribution to this still under-researched area. Contrary to many reviews of international management literature, the paper adopts a deductive analytical approach by applying theory-driven process perspectives to diagnose extant research, identify key developments and research gaps.

Findings: In particular, decision-making processes still require a deeper exploration. The review provides a synthesis of extant knowledge on the antecedents, patterns and outcomes of de-internationalisation processes, which is of particular

Value Added: By applying two different process approaches known from strategic management research, the paper presents a comprehensive review of existing studies, summarising the current stock of knowledge about both patterns of de-internationalisation and the underlying decision-making logic, and indicating certain gaps therein.

Recommendations: The paper ends up with recommendations for future research, which relate to the subject of de-internationalisation processes, i.e. aspects of internationalization strategy which change, as well the nature of the underlying decision-making processes. interest for decision-makers responsible for international expansion.
The formation of loess ground by the process of loessification: a history of the concept
Authors: Smalley Ian , Obreht Igor
Published: October 2018

Loessification is a process by which a body of non-loess ground is transformed into a body of loess ground. The history of loessification is one of controversy and confrontation, largely because of mutual misunderstandings between geologists and pedologists. Lev S. Berg is the ‘only begetter’ of the theory, first proposed in 1916, and propagated throughout his life. R.J. Russell proposed the same approach to the loess in the Lower Mississippi valley in his famous 1944 paper, which contributed enormously to the study of loess in North America. As understanding of the various processes involved in the formation of loess deposits has developed, a compromise position on loess formation has become possible. The major intrinsic features of loess deposits are the open structure and the collapsibility. It appears that the open structure is caused by aeolian depositional processes and the collapsibility is caused by loessification processes. The compromise was initiated by Marton Pécsi in 1990, He endeavoured to retain a loessification aspect in the study of loess deposits, as the subject appeared to be overwhelmed by the aeolian idea system promoted by geologists; it has been mostly a Central European endeavour. The history of the concept of loessification largely involves (1) its development in Russia, (2) its dissemination and discussion – and attempts at refutation and modification – in the wider world.
Design of Grinding Machine Spindle
Authors: Rudolf Lukas , Fries Jiri , Ucen Oldrich , Kubin Tomas , Kudrna Lukas
Published: October 2018

When grinding high demands are usually placed on the geometrical tolerances of the workpiece surface. For this reason, the spindles of the grinding machines are normally designed with requirements for a minimum position change of the grinding disks due to external forces and bending moments. The design theory of these spindles is relatively well elaborated, as it represents the most frequently used solution in practice. However, there are also cases where it is necessary to grind some hard-to-reach areas, using a great ejection of the spindle. In these cases, it is necessary to reassess the required geometrical tolerances with regard to its necessity to comply with the minimal changes in the position of the grinding discs due to the great ejection. Where it is necessary to maintain high geometrical tolerances, it is necessary to ensure a greater rigidity of the spindle. This rigidity is usually improved by increasing its diameter. By doing this we also increase the weight of the spindle that is heavily ejected, and thus its deformation can occur due to gravity forces. That is why it is necessary to analyse the deflection of the spindle depending on its ejection in the course of its design. In the case we increase the diameter of the grinder spindle the possible applicable grinding disc diameter decreases, due to the growing size of its housing. Any grinding of hard-to-reach surfaces is therefore done in particular to improve the quality of the surface with low requirements on the geometrical tolerances. This article deals with the design patterns for a spindle used in axial grinding for inner rotating surfaces. The article contains a spindle design solution and an analysis of its deflections, depending on its ejection, and the size of the passive forces.
Applying Harmonic Analysis in the Measurements of Geometrical Deviations of Crankshafts – Roundness Shapes Analysis
Authors: Nozdrzykowski Krzysztof
Published: October 2018

The article presents measuring procedures and principles of determining deviations of shape and location of the crankshaft main necks assembly axis. We also described mathematical methods of roundness shapes description based on the harmonic analysis theory for the cases when the shaft is set with the external journals in prisms and for the case when the shaft is set on the external front faces in the claws. The results of sample calculations realized on the basis of the proposed mathematical methods have been presented in a form of diagrams of so called amplitude spectrum and in a graphic form of roundness shapes expressed in a polar coordinate system. The procedures described find a practical use during measurements of geometrical deviations of crankshafts realized on the basis of a measuring system with so called flexible support of the measured object.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Methane from CNG in Motor Vehicles in Polish Conditions
Authors: Górniak Adam , Midor Katarzyna , Kaźmierczak Jan , Kaniak Wojciech
Published: October 2018

The current problems related to air pollution in Europe, but also in Poland, are forcing the search for solutions aimed at significantly reducing the amount of solid particles harmful to humans in the air. Road transport is responsible for almost half of the pollution, as it releases nitrogen oxides into the air. In view of the above, the authors of the article want to turn attention toward methane as a fuel alternative traditional ones, pointing to the possibility of its use by Poland and presenting its advantages and disadvantages.
Use of Triz SU-Field Models in the Process of Improving the Injector of an Internal Combustion Engine
Authors: Chybowski Leszek
Published: October 2018

The article describes a method for analyzing and solving problem situations with the use of Su-Field models and 76 inventive standards. These tools are part of the “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving”. The author has presented the basic concepts of Su-Field models, including in the compilation of the most commonly used substances their fields and types of interactions in Su-Field models. The inventive standards have also been presented and grouped. Attempts have been made to solve two undesirable situations that occur during the operation of a complex technical system, which is the fuel injector of the self-ignition engine. Problem situations related to insufficient impact were modelled - too low tightening of the injector spring, and negative (harmful) interaction - erosive wear of the holes in the atomizer nozzle. Using the inventive standards of Class-1 and Class-2, general solutions to these problems have been found. After the transformation, exemplary detailed ways of solving the aforementioned problems have been presented in order to improve the design of the injector for these models. A summary and comments on the applicability of the presented methodology, regarding such complex technical systems, have also been presented.
Exploitation Policy in the Aspect of Industry 4.0 Concept – Overview of Selected Research
Authors: Timofiejczuk Anna , Brodny Jaroslaw , Loska Andrzej
Published: October 2018

The article is a review of completed research on developed and implemented innovative and technologically advanced technical systems. According to the Industry 4.0 concept they can have a significant impact on the efficiency of production processes and product development. In this perspective, the key aspect seems to be maintenance management of technical systems, realized both in the operate phase as well as during service and repair works. There were discussed research results of authors and developed application solutions supporting decision-making processes, in terms of three main periods of realization of exploitation processes: short, medium and long-term.
Initial Excitation Issues of Synchronous Generator with VSI Inverter in Varying Rotational Speed Operation
Authors: Kozak Maciej
Published: October 2018

Synchronous self-excited generators still are and probably will be the most popular 3-phase alternators installed in inland power stations so onboard of seagoing ships. Because of fuel savings and environmental restrictions Diesel, dual-fuel and gas propulsion engines for alternators of wide-range varying revolutions drives are increasingly used. There must be efficient way of creating 3-phase voltages of desired constant parameters ensured when generator produces variable amplitudes and frequencies of voltages because of changing rotational speed. As the control method modified field oriented control widely used with squirrel cage induction machines was chosen. This control method involves decoupling of currents and control voltages to flux and torque components and keeping them in optimal (orthogonal) condition. In order to obtain proper excitation and operation of such generator several factors have to be taken into account. Nonlinear dependence of voltage generated from rotational speed of self-excited synchronous generator is one of the factors that affects initial excitation process thus specific control method while generator startup. Theoretical background of synchronous generator excitation and voltage source inverter adopted FOC control method along with experimental results obtained in laboratory test bench of 5,5 kW generator and conclusions were presented.
Analysis of Powered Roof Support Operation Based on a Virtual Driver
Authors: Szurgacz Dawid , Brodny Jarosław
Published: October 2018

The article presents the results of tests and analyses of control functions performed by a powered roof support which is the basic part of a powered longwall system. The research was based on an innovative registration and measurement system dedicated to this specific range of tests. The basic element of this system is a virtual driver. It is equipped with input and output systems to connect standard physical voltage signals. The tests were carried out on a prototype powered roof support type ZPR- 15/35-POz. The presented research methodology and obtained results are an element of new research methods developed for powered support based on virtual controllers. The applied solution generates less costs than the devices currently used, while its functionality is significantly greater. The system developed by the Authors supports innovative and, to a certain extent, intelligent IT solutions for testing control elements. This developed system is suitable to be applied in a wide range of research such as diagnosis of mining machinery control elements and other industries in the near future.
Mitigating the Risk of Documentary Discrepancy in Process of Estonian Export Letters of Credit Transaction
Authors: Alavi Hamed , Kerikmäe Tanel
Published: October 2018

The main subject of this paper is to study relations between metrics which affects payment risk under documentary letters of credit (DLC) from the exporters perspective in Estonia. This will result in reducing the risk of documentary discrepancy in presentation of documents to banks, decrease relevant costs to rectification of discrepancies which are nothing but a loss to exporter and improving the flow of international trade. For this purpose, the author takes an empirical approach in his strive to find answer to following questions: What are different types of discrepancy in Estonian export landscape? How relevant are deferent attributes of the DLC to attributes types of discrepancy? What measures should be in place to prevent risk of documentary discrepancy in DLC operation? (In Estonian export trade).
Mitigating Uncertainties in Decision Making in Early Phases of RFID Implementation
Authors: Gładysz Bartlomiej
Published: October 2018

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is still a relatively new technology for many manufacturing and logistics companies. These companies experience uncertainties about RFID implementation, so they take steps to mitigate them. This article presents multiple case studies to design a conceptual framework to mitigate such barriers. The goal of this research was to test propositions that companies: often are not convinced about the maturity and performance of RFID technology; perform typical actions to test uncertainties; and need proof of the benefits of RFID technology before implementation. It was demonstrated that companies conduct proof of RFID technology activities (demonstrations and reference visits) to test RFID performance. These are required to test the technology in operation. Conclusions of this research may serve RFID systems providers and end users of technology by facilitating a better understanding of decision making processes during early phases of RFID implementation.
Technical Infrastructure of “Smart City”: Needs of Integrating Various Management Tasks
Authors: Kaźmierczak Jan , Loska Andrzej , Kučera Marian , Abashidze Irakli
Published: October 2018

In the article the idea of the “Smart City” is analysed mainly from the view point of technology. The author presents in the first part of the paper the brief review of technical issues connected with implementing the concept of “Smart City” into practice. These review is illustrated in the second part of the paper by some practical results, which are treated as a background for formulating a research problem which is tried to be presented in the third part of the paper: the problem of recognizing needs in the complex field of activities, assessing these needs and - basing on results of such an assessment - designing some integrated solutions that should be used in management of the identified resources. The final part of the paper contains some conclusions and introduces directions for further research.
Improvement of Production Processes with the Use of Lean Manufacturing Tools
Authors: Furman Joanna , Kuczyńska-Chałada Marzena , Poloczek Roksana
Published: October 2018

Growing competition, clients’ requirements as well as advances in technology make modern industrial enterprises search for a way of achieving and maintaining strong position on the market. One of the principal and at the same time necessary conditions to achieve this aim is continuous development of all of the processes in order to fulfil various clients’ expectations. Enterprises make use of different concepts and management methods which in significant way upgrade ongoing processes by raising their efficiency. One of such is the concept of ‘lean’ production - Lean Manufacturing. Management according to Lean Management rules allows to produce more with the use of less resources - at the same time approaching the aim which is to deliver clients the exact product they want. The process of resources use limitation is not easy to perform however, the concept of Lean Manufacturing by the application of chosen tools allows successfully and effectively to introduce ‘lean’ model of management in an enterprise and undertaking following improvement activities in every of its field.
Challenges Faced by Businesses in the Mining Industry in the Context of the Industry 4.0 Philosophy
Authors: Sukiennik Marta
Published: October 2018

This article presents the challenges that mining companies have in the face of the Industry 4.0 philosophy. Transformation of mining businesses into Industry 4.0 appears unavoidable. Due to the specific nature of the sector, the transformation will not be an easy one. This paper discusses the obstacles and challenges related to the transformation of businesses in the mining industry into the Industry 4.0. The history of industrial revolutions was presented, also as the idea of Industry 4.0 with its basic components. The concept of Industry 4.0 is also outlined and the studies which indicate the key issues in the transformation process are also cited. Based on these studies, it can be seen that the vast majority are issues in the field of production engineering and properly educated and qualified staff. Four main areas in which transformation into Industry 4.0 should be taking place are identified. Particular emphasis is placed on the area of technology and organizational culture. The mutual relations of management functions and ICT technologies have also been presented, which is one of the elements of the idea of Industry 4.0. Finally, the potential benefits for the organizational culture of the business of implementing the Industry 4.0 concepts are discussed.
Penal Law Protection of a Production Enterprise Employee in the Light of Obligations on the Occupational Safety and Health
Authors: Kąkol Cezary
Published: October 2018

The article discusses criminal law regulations whose task is to protect employees from imminent dangers to life and health and resulting from the violation of health and safety at work. Therefore, the key offenses of art. 220 (Act - Penal Code, 1997) from the point of view of criminal responsibility were subject to analysis, as well as the premises that determine it. In this way, an attempt was made to define the protection and responsibility framework both in the subjective and objective dimension. In the further part of the study, the regulations protecting the life and health of employees with other penal regulations of a general nature were discussed, also in the context of criminal threat dimensions, as well as the premises for not being punished by the perpetrator.
Environmental Performance of the Technology of Production of Bimodal Polyethylene (HDPE) with the Application of LCA Techniques
Authors: Graczyk Magdalena , Kaźmierczak-Piwko Leszek , Ganczewski Grzegorz
Published: October 2018

The paper discusses the issue of environmental management in chemical industry. The aim of the paper is develop reliable information about environmental footprints of the technology of production of bimodal polyethylene HDPE by means of the diagnostic tool Life Cycle Assessment with the application of the ReCiPe Endpoint (H) method of SimaPro 8.5 software
Effect of Human Factor on Product Quality in Manufacturing Activities
Authors: Gruszka Sara , Gašpar Štefan
Published: October 2018

Human factor, often referred to in the literature as human resources, is an important type of resources in an enterprise in ensuring the highest possible quality of products and meeting the needs of customers. The paper presents the question of influence of human factor on the quality of manufacture of the finished product in individual stages of the production process. This problem was presented based on literature analysis and on observations in a production business. Due to the ever-increasing significance of human influence on product quality, this issue is not only very timely, but is constantly being developed.
“Tell Me Where You Shop, and I Will Tell You Who You Are”: Czech Shopper Profiles According to Traditional, Large-Scale and Alternative Retail Options
Authors: Spilková Jana
Published: October 2018

Traditional, ‘post-traditional’ large-scale, and ‘alternative’ food shopping options are used in this paper to address the following questions: Who are the customers of these different retail formats? Is it possible to discern certain types of shopper according to retail formats? Do alternative food networks attract significantly different consumers than traditional forms and large-scale outlets? Relatively unique data collected in an omnibus survey by The Centre for Independent Public Opinion Research during 2014, 2015 and 2017 (n = 3,168) are used in this analysis. The consumption habits and preferences of a representative sample of the Czech population were subject to investigation. Results are presented mainly by descriptive statistics and the testing of hypotheses on the similarity or difference of given shopper populations by contingency analysis (associations between characteristics use contingency coefficients). A profile of shoppers according to food provisioning options is presented, and demographic, socio-economic and geographic factors influencing current trends in the shopping behaviours of Czech consumers are analysed. Significant differences between the customers of diverse retail formats and alternative possibilities to acquire food are among the most important distinguishing factors characterising Czech shoppers today.
Simulation Analysis of Extended Kalman Filter Applied for Estimating Position and Speed of a Brushless DC Motor
Authors: Chojowski Maciej
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this paper was to present a method for the estimation of the rotor speed and position of brushless DC (BLDC) motor. The BLDC motor state equations were developed, and the model was discretised. Extended Kalman filter has been designed to observe specific states from the state vector, needed for the sensorless control (rotor position) and to determine the speed, which may be useful to use as a feedback for the controller. A test was carried out to determine the noise covariance matrices in a simulation manner.
Risk perception among the workers in radiotherapy facilities located in North Eastern States, India
Authors: Singh Thokchom Dewan
Published: October 2018

In the radiotherapy practice, regulator defines risk in terms of physically measurable quantities and attempt to implement the results obtained from the risk assessment of this practice, using quantitative approach. Although such approach has significantly brought down radiation dose, injuries and fatalities to the workers as compared to the radiotherapy practices before World War II, the objectivity concept of risk that limits the assessment regarding physically measurable quantities is widely urged throughout the world. This study examined how the risk associated with radiotherapy practice has been perceived, and experienced by both professional and non-professional workers in the radiotherapy facilities located in Manipur, Meghalaya, and Assam. This study found that professional and nonprofessional workers exhibited different risk perception on the same physical risk. Such different risk perceptions influenced the establishment of radiological protection systems in the facility. Non-professional workers are more likely to be the affected group in a facility having weak radiological protection systems.
Application of Contemporary Equated Yield and Dcf Explicit Growth Methods in the Valuation of Over-Rented Properties in a Recessionary Period: A Case Study of Nigeria
Authors: Uwaifiokun Vincent
Published: October 2018

Valuations have always been time specific and, if properly undertaken, are supposed to give a true reflection of property market conditions at any given point in time. In periods of economic decline, when properties are leased or tend to exchange hands at rents or prices lower than their true market value, a need to capture the explicit growth rate associated with an instability in the property market arises. With the Nigerian economy currently facing its worst recession in years, the onus is on valuers to adopt contemporary methods of valuation which seek to mirror the true situation of the property market at any point in time; something which, hitherto, conventional methods of valuations have failed to do. This paper therefore takes a pilot survey of the types of investment valuation models currently adopted by valuers when carrying out valuations of reversionary properties in a recession. The study seeks to highlight the knowledge gap of valuers, both in practice and in the academia, concerning the use of the Equated yield and DCF explicit growth method of valuation, and hence enlighten them and the general public on its use as a more appropriate method of valuing properties during a downturn.
15 Myths about Market Value
Authors: Kucharska-Stasiak Ewa
Published: October 2018

Market value is one of the most difficult notions in economics. It is also one of the most puzzling in the valuation industry, although its definitions can be found in the International Valuation Standards, European Valuation Standards, RICS standards and national standards. This value tends to be given different interpretations and misconceptions surrounding it are shared by many members of the property valuer community. The many ways in which property market value is understood leads to misvaluations and significant variations between valuation results, which are damaging to the prestige of the property valuation profession. This article explores areas giving rise to the misinterpretations of property market value to provide a critical review of the existing views, and to put forward arguments explaining why they should be revised. To this end, a critical literature review and observations made by the author during discussions with valuation professionals taking skill-improvement courses, scientific conferences on valuation methodology and practice, and entry exams for the profession of property valuers are used. Three main areas conducive to the emergence of myths have been identified: the interpretation of property market value (four myths), the process of arriving at property market value (ten myths) and the interpretation of valuation results (one myth). The myths are challenged on the grounds of the market value concept and its interpretation as used in economics.