bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PEMASARAN KOMPREHENSIF DALAM AGRIBISNIS “LORJUK” Di KABUPATEN PAMEKASAN MADURA
Authors: Wahyurini Endang Tri , Zahro Aminatus
Published: May 2017

ABSTRAK

Permasalahan penelitian ini bagaimana gambaran umum usaha agribisnis lorjuk di Kabupaten Pamekasan dan bagaimana model pemasaran komprehensif yang terbaik pada komoditas lorjuk. Tujuan  penelitian untuk menganalisis keragaan lorjuk sebagai produk agribisnis di Pamekasan, dan menganalisis pemasaran lorjuk secara komprehensif. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode diskriptif analitik. Hasil dari penelitian ini menujukkan bahwa 1) Segmentasi lorjuk menurut produsen bahwa lorjuk merupakan sumber penghasilan yang masih diminati oleh konsumen tertentu. 2) Lorjuk menurut konsumen adalah bahwa bahwa responden yang paling banyak memilih atribut bisa dibuat camilan, dibuat oleh-oleh dan di buat suguhan tamu sebanyak 43,3%.  3) Positioning lorjuk menurut produsen adalah produk lorjuk lebih disukai dan diminati oleh konsumen jika dibandingkan dengan “rung-terung” (teripang). 4) Berdasarkan analisis   SWOT   bahwa strategi bauran pemasaran yang perlu dilakukan adalah strategi intensif atau strategi terintegrasi. Strategi dalam penelitian ini terletak pada kuadran I, yaitu memanfaatkan peluang dengan menggunakan kekuatan yang dimiliki oleh masyarakat penjual lorjuk

ABSTRACT
This research problems of how a general overview of agribusiness lorjuk in Pamekasan and how best comprehensive marketing model in lorjuk commodities. The aim of research to analyze the performance of lorjuk as agribusiness products in Pamekasan, and analyze marketing lorjuk comprehensively. This research uses descriptive method analytics. The result of this study showed that 1) Lorjuk segmentation according to the manufacturer that lorjuk is source of income is still in demand by certain consumers. 2) Lorjuk according to the consumer is the most respondents choose which attributes can be made snack, made souvenirs and treats for the guests as much as 43.3%. 3) Positioning Lorjuk product according to the manufacturer is preferred and desired by consumers when compared to the "bird-eggplant" (sea cucumbers). 4) Based on SWOT analysis that marketing mix strategy needs to be done is the intensive strategy or integrity strategy. The strategy in this study lies in quadrant I, which take advantage of opportunities to use the strength of the community lorjuk seller.
Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of plant extracts from Brazilian savanna on cariogenic cocci
Authors: Bianco Karina Gerhardt , Gaetti-Jardim Ellen Cristina , Brighenti Fernanda Lourenção , Gaetti-Jardim Júnior Elerson
Published: May 2017

This study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of 138 aqueous extracts of 23 plants from Brazilian savanna on cariogenic cocci. Aqueous extracts were prepared from leaves, stems and barks of the plants. The initial screening of antimicrobial activity was performed by the agar diffusion method. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentrations were determined using broth dilution method. Time-kill curve were also determined on cells in suspension. The initial screening of antimicrobial activity evidenced that leaves extracts from M. ilicifolius, P. americana, J. cuspidifolia and bark extracts of P. rotundifolia were active on some strains but not all tested microorganisms. Only leaves, bark and stems extracts of M. urundeuva and P. cattleianum were able to inhibit all tested strains. The inhibitory activities of M. urundeuva and P. cattleianum were similar. In general, MBCs were four up to thirty two times higher than MICs. Time-kill curve of the extracts from P. cattleianum and M. urundeuvashowed that a log reduction of the planktonic bacterial inoculum was achieved within 60 minutes of contact.Descriptors: Bacteria; Prevention & Control; Plant Extracts; Dental Caries.
Remoção cirúrgica de sialolito no ducto da glândula submandibular: relato de caso
Authors: Pereira Rodrigo dos Santos , Bonardi João Paulo , Da Silva Jonathan Ribeiro , Mourão Carlos Fernando de Almeida Barros , De Souza Fernando Isquierdo , Pimentel Rafael Meira
Published: May 2017

A sialolitíase é uma doença que ocorre nas glândulas salivares através da formação de cálculos que impedem o fluxo e ocasionam infecções recorrentes. O tratamento dessas lesões pode ser realizado pela abertura cirúrgica do ducto, litotripsia, laser de Dióxido de Carbono e a sialodectomia. O objetivo deste artigo é demonstrar um caso clínico de remoção de 2 cálculos salivares no ducto de Wharton da glândula submandibular direita através da sua abertura e a transposição do óstio. Assim, após 1 ano, a técnica mostrou-se promissora pois não houve recorrências e o fluxo salivar manteve-se permeável no novo óstio.Descritores: Cálculos das Glândulas Salivares; Terapêutica; Cirurgia Bucal.
Avaliação da alteração dimensional linear de hidrocolóides irreversíveis através do método fotográfico
Authors: Gennari Filho Humberto , Alves Luciana Mara Negrão , Mazaro José Vitor Quineli , Zuim Paulo Renato Junqueira , Turcio Karina Helga Leal , Guiotti Aimée Maria
Published: May 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar através de método fotográfico, as alterações dimensionais lineares de três marcas de alginato, dois com tempo de presa estendido (Cavex Color Change e Hidrogum 5) e um convencional (Jeltrate dustless), em quatro períodos de tempo (0, 8, 32 e 80 horas). Material e Método: Com base em um modelo superior de uma boca dentada foi obtido um modelo em resina acrílica, que serviu como padrão para a obtenção dos moldes estudados. Sobre os dentes 14, 17, 24 e 27 foram inseridas marcas que serviram como referência de mensuração. Com uma moldeira em resina acrílica confeccionada sobre este modelo, produziram-se cinco moldes para cada marca de alginato, um de cada vez, sendo os mesmos fotografados em estativa e máquina fotográfica Nikon D50, com distância preestabelecida para todas as fotos. As imagens foram mensuradas no programa Corel Draw. Com base nos valores obtidos dos moldes, e do modelo padrão foi possível estabelecer as alterações dimensionais lineares que ocorreram nas três marcas de alginato, nos tempos estabelecidos. Resultados: Não houve diferença estatística significante entre as três marcas de alginato estudadas. Conclusão: Concluiu-se que a estabilidade dimensional linear dos moldes dos três alginatos estudados estão inseridos num nível aceitável para produzir modelos adequados e que não houve diferença estatística significante entre eles.Descritores: Alginatos; Materiais para Moldagem Odontológica; Precisão da Medição Dimensional.
Reabilitação de paciente anoftálmico por meio de prótese ocular: relato de caso
Authors: Carvalho Júlia Silva , Silva Cayque Martins da , Bento Gabriela , Haddad Marcela Filié
Published: May 2017

Introdução: A perda ocular é muito constrangedora ao seu portador; e a reabilitação por meio de próteses consegue devolver a estética e parte da função perdida.  Objetivo: relatar um caso de reabilitação de paciente com anoftalmia unilateral por meio de prótese ocular. Relato de Caso: Foi realizada moldagem da cavidade com hidrocolóide irreversível, o molde foi incluído em mufla e foi prensada a resina acrílica ocular termicamente ativada (RAOTA) previamente selecionada, cor N3. A esclera artificial obtida foi provada no paciente e recebeu os ajustes necessários. Depois, foi realizada a centralização da pupila, foi confeccionado o platô, a íris artificial foi pintada e colada sobre o platô. A superfície da sclera recebeu a caracterização e o conjunto foi recoberto com RAOTA incolor. A prótese ocular recebeu acabamento, polimento e foi instalada. O paciente recebeu instruções de uso e higienização. Foi observado que após a instalação da prótese a estética facial foi restaurada, o suporte palpebral restabelecido, o direcionamento lacrimal foi corrigido e o indivíduo foi reinserido ao convívio social. Conclusão: O tratamento reabilitador atingiu o objetivo de restaurar a estética facial e foi de grande importância para o paciente, pois devolve a autoestima perdida e permitiu que o mesmo retornasse à sociedade.Descritores: Reabilitação; Olho Artificial; Anoftalmia.
Natal teeth associated with Riga-Fede ulcer: case report
Authors: Danelon Marcelle , Emerenciano Nayara Gonçalves , Garcia Luhana Gonzales , Percinoto Célio , Cunha Robson Frederico
Published: May 2017

Aim: Was to report a case report showing the occurrence of natal teeth associated with Riga-Fede ulcer, clinical implications and treatment approach. Case report: Two-month-old female patient, was taken by his mother to the Baby Clinic of the Araçatuba Dental School, Univ. Estadual Paulista (UNESP) - Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Public Health-Brazil, reporting ulcer in the womb of tongue and weight loss. On clinical examination, there was teeth in the region of the mandibular incisors and in the ventral region of the tongue, characterized as Riga-Fede ulcer. In the radiographic examination it was noted that the same was supernumerary. After clinical and radiographic examinations, we opted for the natal teeth exodontics. After thirty days, the mother informed us that the ulcer disappeared and the child returned to feed, demonstrating that the approach has proved suitable and effective.  Conclusions: Natal teeth supernumerary when related the Riga-Fede ulcer should be extracted; It should not be neglect weight loss in infants and treatment aims at healing of the lesion feed return and weight gain.Descriptors: Natal Teeth; Oral Ulcer; Tongue Diseases.
Vibrational method of cleaning of surfaces from homogeneous waste materials
Authors: Ragulskis K. , Bubulis A. , Mažeika D. , Kandrotaitė-Janutienė R. , Ragulskis L. , Bartkus A.
Published: May 2017

Cleaning of contaminated surfaces is closely related to the study of adhesion forces between particles and the surface. Despite numerous technological advancements, the adhesion of particles and surfaces is a phenomenon that is far from being fully understood. This is due to many factors acting during process, - such as the surface roughness and material type, size, shape, electrostatic properties of particles, etc. A surface cleaning device based on nonlinear vibration of the contact element is presented in this paper. Relationships describing the periodic motion in steady state operating regimes are obtained. Characteristics of motion as functions of the frequency of excitation are investigated. Experimental investigations were performed for the determination of the influence of the cleaning velocity on the vibration frequency. It is shown that this dependence is directly related to adhesion forces between particles and the surface. Test results are in good accordance with theoretical predictions.
Rancang Bangun Spectrum Analyzer Menggunakan Fast Fouier Transform Pada Single Board Computer
Authors: Thohari Afandi Nur Aziz , Putra Agfianto Eko
Published: May 2017

Spectrum analyzer is an instrument device to measure the magnitude of the frequency and the power of signal. It has many benefits, such as used for testing telecommunication devices, determining the allocation of unused frequencies and also for practicum in schools or universities. However, because of these many benefits, the price of this signal measuring equipment soared in the market.As an alternative, a device that can serve as spectrum analyzer yet has an affordable price is invented in the form of the prototype of spectrum analyzer built using a single board computer by applying a fast Fourier transform algorithm. Feedback from the prototype is in the form of radio signal captured using RTL-SDR.The test results showed that the range of frequencies that can be displayed by the prototype is 24 MHz to 1.769 MHz. Then the test results of fast Fourier transform computing on N points showed that the prototype can work smoothly using the N from 512 to 32.768 points. The use of N more than 32.768 points will cause CPU and disk memory overloaded and lead to a slow performance. Finally, comparison of the levels of spectrum was performed using spectrum analyzer Anritsu MS2720T. As a result, it is known that prototype can be used to show the location of the frequency spectrum of the radio signal appropriately.
Artists, debt, and global activism
Authors: Rectanus Mark W.
Published: May 2017

This article examines how artists, activism, and works of art may
contribute to a more textured understanding of debt in contemporary society
and culture. The diversity of aesthetic practices and range of strategic
interventions in which artists are organizers and activists are manifest in
the Global Ultra Luxury Faction (G.U.L.F.), advocacy initiatives by Working
Artists and the Greater Economy (W.A.G.E.), and alternative, trans-local
projects such as the Arts Collaboratory. These activist interventions
provide the context for an examination of how artists have seized upon
discourses related to debt and finance to produce works that offer a
critical reappraisal of the global economy. Artists’ projects by Martha
Rosler, Cassie Thornton, Zachary Formwalt, and Michael Najjar challenge
audiences to rethink the invisible networks of debt and exchange by creating
new visual vocabularies for ‘seeing’ debt. The emergence of activist groups,
such as Liberate Tate, has also signaled renewed interest in the ethics of
corporate sponsorships, museums, and environmental issues. A heightened
awareness of the ethical dimensions of debt and global support for activist
movements may contribute to new notions of citizenship and performative
democracy that can incite individual and collective renegotiations of how we
might critically rethink debt.
Flint artefacts from the Wielbark culture cemetery at Weklice, Site 7, Elbląg county
Authors: Natuniewicz-Sekuła Magdalena , Werra Dagmara H.
Published: May 2017

In the Bronze Age flint was still being used throughout Europe. In the early periods of that age flint continued to play an important role in the economy in many areas, as evidenced by the numerous flint mines in use at the time as well as flint tools. In the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages, flint still had an important place in the economies of communities living in East Central Europe. At the same time, analysis of late flint industries suggests that some of those had no utilitarian significance. The presence of flint, especially in inhumation graves from the cemetery at Weklice (used by communities of the Wielbark culture during the Roman Period) potentially adds to the debate about its significance. The cemetery at Weklice is the one of the best-known sites from the Roman Period in Poland. The graves are mostly equipped with local finds of metals: gold, silver, copper alloys, iron and amber as well as Roman imports (glass beads, vessels: glass, copper alloys). The collections comprise over of 4000 finds, however this number may change, as excavations in 2012 and 2013 revealed 22 flint artefacts. The presence of flint materials in a Roman Period cemetery admits several possible interpretations: 1) Those may be remnants of older settlements, with graves being dug into older strata and thus some of the specimens of flint could be in their secondary filling on the site; 2) Those may be remains of flint knapping activity by the Wielbark culture community; 3) Those may have been placed in the graves deliberately by the Wielbark culture community as an instance of an older custom involving the placing of flint in graves.
The exploitation of obsidian in the Central Plateau of Santa Cruz, Argentina: Results from La María and Cerro Tres Tetas and a regional perspective
Authors: Cueto Manuel Enrique , Frank Ariel David , Skarbun Fabiana
Published: May 2017

La María and Cerro Tres Tetas archaeological localities are located in the Central Plateau, in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentine Patagonia. This area presents abundant lithic raw materials of very good quality for knapping including flint, chalcedony and silicified wood. These raw materials were used by the inhabitants of the region since the end of the Pleistocene until recent historical times. Besides, we have recorded the exploitation of exotic stones in low proportions at the archaeological sites. Among these, the most abundant is obsidian which probably comes from sources located more than125 kmaway. In this context, the use of this type of raw material should be evaluated in terms of social and symbolic issues.In this paper, we examine the strategies of acquisition and reduction of the obsidian found at the archaeological sites Cerro Tres Tetas 1, Casa del Minero 1, Cueva de La Ventana, La Mesada and Cueva Túnel. We carry out a technomorphological analysis of the obsidian remains from these sites.Results from this work strengthen the idea that the groups which lived in the Central Plateau knew about and exploited an obsidian source known as Pampa del Asador. A raise in the use of this raw material throughout time is recorded, reaching its peak in the late Holocene. We identified two different moments in the exploitation of obsidian at the regional level. During the final Pleistocene and early Holocene, obsidian would not have played a relevant role in the organization of technology. Production sequences indicate that tools probably were entered to the sites already manufactured. During the middle and late Holocene nodules and cores could have been brought into the sites. The strategies involved in their reduction are in broad terms similar to those implemented with local raw materials; there is no evidence that obsidian had more value in any way. On the other hand, it is also not possible to state that there was just an eventual exploitation of this raw material. We believe that obsidian was acquired during mobility circuits which enabled the contact between different groups.
The quarry and workshop of Barranco Cardones (Gran Canaria, Canary Islands): Basalt quern production using stone tools
Authors: Naranjo-Mayor Yurena , Francisco-Ortega Isabel , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Amelia
Published: May 2017

Querns for grinding cereals were essential in the everyday life of the Pre-European population of the Island of Gran Canaria as their agriculture was based mainly on barley and wheat, cereals processed for the most part in the form of roasted flour. Rotary querns and other grinding stones, nonetheless, have rarely been the object of research in the Canary Islands and the study of their operational sequence of production has only recently been initiated. Volcanic tuff (compact lapilli) was the most commonly quarried rock. Other raw materials such as basalt, and to a lesser extension tephrite, were also worked. Since metal tools were not known in the Canary Islands in Pre-European contexts, all of the stages of extraction and fashioning had to be carried out with stone tools.This paper analyses the operational sequence, that is, the different phases of the extraction and fashioning techniques of basalt rotary querns based on the recent finds of two quarries located near the coast (Cardones and Cebolla) and a quern manufacturing workshop (Cave 36, Arucas Municipality) in a ravine about 600 m inland. Traditionally it was thought that the Pre-European population of Gran Canaria fashioned their querns from naturally detached volcanic surface blocks collected in ravines or along the coast. This supposition was based on the idea that the early Canarians were not capable of extracting blocks from bedrock with stone tools. This notion, however, has been proven wrong by the circular extraction negatives on the quarry faces and by finds of stone fashioning tools in the workshop.
Book review: Turquoise, Water, Sky: Meaning and Beauty in Southwest Native Arts
Authors: Witt David Eugene
Published: May 2017

Turquoise, Water, Sky: Meaning and Beauty in Southwest Native Arts presents an accessible discussion of the importance and utilization of turquoise by Southwestern cultures throughout the past 1500 years, albeit heavily focused on the modern era. Primarily meant for a lay audience, this short volume is divided into six chapters and interspersed by approximately 160 images and illustrations. While beautiful, these images greatly limit the amount of text in the book. Turquoise, Water, Sky begins with a discussion of the prehistoric use of the material and its meaning in both past and contemporary contexts. However, the majority of the volume presents an evolution of contemporary form of both Puebloan and Navajo stonework. This portion will likely be the most appealing aspect of the book for the intended general audience, but it has limited utility for archaeologists and others interested in lithic studies.
The diachrony of Mapudungun stress assignment
Authors: Molineaux Benjamin
Published: May 2017

Stress assignment is one of the most widely-known and controversial aspects of present-day Mapudungun (aka Araucanian) phonology. Here, the diachrony of the phenomenon is explored based on the available written record spanning 1606–1936. Having surveyed these sparse but suggestive data, and contrasted them with present-day evidence, I suggest four distinct stages of development. Ultimately, I go on to argue that Mapudungun has undergone changes both to the morphological and metrical domains which determine stress assignment. At the level of the morphology, stress appears to have changed from marking the edge of verbal roots, to marking the edge of stems. In terms of metrical units, the apparent lack of weight-sensitivity in the earliest stages of the language is replaced by a decidedly weight-sensitive system towards the end. Finally, I argue that stress assignment in Mapudungun is subordinate to morpho-phonological transparency both synchronically and diachronically, allowing the position of stress to vary in order to highlight the morphology.
Chin-throat anatomy: Normal relations and changes following orthognathic surgery and growth modification
Authors: Haddad Ramzi V. , Ghafari Joseph G.
Published: May 2017

Objectives:

To determine if a new facial line (T), tangent to the throat, intersects the mandibular border in anterior (ANT) and posterior (POST) parts in proportions varying with facial configuration, and to evaluate the association between chin projection and throat inclination and the potential for the T-line to reflect this association.

Materials and Methods:

Measurements on profile photographs and cephalograms of 135 adults (aged 18–50 years)—45 each of Class I, II, and III (CI, CII, CIII) malocclusions—included ANT and POST, chin-throat (CTA), and mento-cervical (MCA) angles. Pre- and posttreatment measurements were compared in two subgroups (n = 25 each) of CII and CIII orthognathic surgery patients and in CII, division 1 early-treatment patients (n = 63). Statistics included analysis of variance and t-test for group differences, and Pearson correlation for associations among variables.

Results:

ANT was nearly equal to POST in CI (50.99%) and CIII (51.86%) subjects and shorter in CII (36.01%) subjects. CTA and MCA were greater in CII profiles and smaller in CIII profiles. Significant differences (P < .0001) were observed for ANT, POST, CTA, and MCA between Classes I/II and II/III and for MCA between Classes II/III (P = .016). High correlations were noted between ANT and CTA in Classes I (r = −0.83), II (r = −0.73), and III (r = −0.68). In surgically treated patients, posttreatment measurements approached CI values. In the early-treatment group, ANT increased but remained smaller than POST; CTA decreased by nearly 13%.

Conclusions:

Chin-throat relations and chin extension are associated and require routine assessment in terms of diagnosis and treatment outcome. A practical tool to assess chin-throat relationship, the T-line bisects the mandibular body nearly equally in Class I faces.
Fast and Accurate Frequency Estimation for Renewable Energy Systems Using Maximum Decay Sidelobes Windows
Authors: Dariusz Kania  , Józef Borkowski  , Janusz Mroczka
Published: May 2017

Fast and accurate signal frequency estimation has great importance i.a. in renewable energy systems and power control systems. The energy produced by these systems shall fulfill quality requirements as defined in the respective directives and standards. More accurate and faster grid signal frequency estimation (which can be used to control the inverter) can improve the energy quality. This article presents an overview of methods for spectrum interpolation and signal frequency estimation and a generalized method for very accurate and fast frequency grid estimation by using the Fast Fourier Transform procedure and maximum decay sidelobes windows. An important feature of this algorithm is the elimination of the impact of the conjugate component on the estimation result. The article shows the statistical properties of the frequency estimator as well as the effect of noise for the estimation. The results of the simulation show that the algorithm can be successfully used for a fast and accurate estimation of the grid signal frequency i.a. in renewable energy systems and power control systems. The accuracy of the frequency estimation is in the order of 5·10-11 Hz for a 5 ms measurement window. Using different windows from the discussed family allows to adjust to the actual requirements of estimation.
Measurements and Evaluation of Flicker in High Voltage Networks
Authors: M. H. Albadi  , A. S. Al Hinai  , A. H. Al-Badi  , M. S. Al Riyami  , S. M. Al Hinai  , R. S Al Abri
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a case study about the impacts of industrial loads on power quality. A review of flicker causes, negative impacts, mitigation techniques, quantification indices and limits are presented. Moreover, flicker measurements at three grid station that supply the three main industrial areas located in the main interconnected system (MIS) of Oman are conducted. Measurement results are compared with limits specified by national and international standards.
Predicting global solar radiation for North Algeria
Authors: Laidi Maamar  , Hanini Salah  , Cheggaga Nawal  , Nadjemi Omar
Published: May 2017

Having a complete and effective radiometric database is very crucial in the renewable energy field for the design of solar photovoltaic and thermal system. Despite the existence of the chain of radiometric measurement at the University of Blida, data acquisition of various components of radiation is still having problems, such as gaps in basic radiometric data due to heavy power-cuts especially in summers. Thus, a good design is only possible if the measurements are available continuously in space and time. Solar energy estimation procedures using artificial neural networks methods may overcome the issue. In this study, an artificial neural network (ANN) was used for the estimation of daily global solar radiation (DGSR) on horizontal surface using data measured from the meteorological station located inside the University. Six input parameters were used to train the network. These parameters were elevation, longitude, latitude, air temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed. The optimized network obtained with lowest error during the training was one with 6 neurons in the input layer; 6 neurons in the hidden which was obtained by trial and error, and one neuron in the output layer. The results show that the ANN can be accurately trained and that the chosen architecture can estimate the DGSR with acceptable accuracy: mean absolute error (MAE) less than 20% for both training and validation step.
Renewable Energy Cycle with Magnesium and Solar-Energy-Pumped Lasers
Authors: T. Yabe  , Y. Suzuki  , Y. Satoh
Published: May 2017

We report the recent progress of our proposed renewable energy cycle based on magnesium and solar-energy pumped laser. The solar energy is used to recycle the used magnesium, MgO, to recover new magnesium and magnesium is used as fuel-cell battery. The batteries for the cell phone, automobiles and others have already been developed and demonstrated. The magnesium of 24kg is proven to drive a car for 500km without charging.
Electrification of Loaders and Trucks – A Step Towards More Sustainable Underground Mining
Authors: Jacek Paraszczak  , Erik Svedlund  , Kostas Fytas  , Marcel Laflamme
Published: May 2017

Metal mining at great depths is associated with a high demand for fresh air required to cool down mine openings, evacuate noxious gases and contaminants, as well as to provide sufficient amounts of oxygen for miners. Diesel powered load haul-dump (LHD) machines, trucks and other mobile equipment used extensively by modern mines not only emit exhaust gases and diesel particulate matters (DPM), but constitute also an additional source of heat. As mine regulations get steadily more stringent with regard to air quality, the use of diesel engines has an increasingly adverse impact on ventilation costs. In this context, this paper examines electric drives (mainly those commercially available) as possible alternatives for diesel power trains. They are reviewed with regards to their principles, required infrastructure, as well as technical and operational issues. Their practicality and economic viability are also addressed. Moreover, their benefits and potential for implementation in the conditions of deep metal mines are discussed. The paper concludes with a resume of current and short-term potential of electric loading and haulage equipment as alternative to diesel-powered vehicles in deep metal mines. It underlines the growing interest in their application as means to improve sustainability of underground mining.
Solar energy and photovoltaic: technical background and basics knowledge teaching using an innovative Solar Production Simulator
Authors: S. Jacques  , Z. Ren  , A. Caldeira  , A. Schellmanns  , N. Batut  , T. Jacques  , E. Pluvinet
Published: May 2017

This paper deals with a new pedagogical approach that intends to facilitate the acquisition of basic knowledge regarding solar energy and photovoltaic applications. This experimental and interactive teaching method enables students and designers of photovoltaic systems to manipulate a Solar Production Simulator (SPS). This simulation tool reproduces, on a small scale, the sun’s path at any time of day. It estimates the energy production of a solar sensor in various inclinations and orientations using an easy-to-use operator interface. The SPS offers students an opportunity to learn in another way solar energy background. Several examples of practical work are detailed to give an overview of the learning exercises that could be done by students to acquire basics in solar energy and photovoltaic applications. For example, many applications could be studied such as implementation of solar position calculations, electrical characterization of solar cells with various technologies or tracking system programming.
Modelling the Propagation of Underwater Acoustic Signals of a Marine Energy Device Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Oshoke W. Ikpekha  , Felipe Soberon  , Stephen Daniels
Published: May 2017

Today a large number of marine based energy devices are been deployed rapidly across coastal areas of the world’s oceans to harness the huge natural energy and power potential provided by nature. These devices produce sound signals at high sound pressure levels across a wide range of frequencies that could be detrimental to the health and livelihood of marine animals. This paper proposes a computer model that simulates the emission of acoustic signals produced by a wave energy device. It analyses these signals with the aid of the audiogram of marine mammals, in this case the Harbour seal. This enables us to estimate the levels of acoustic noise experienced by marine mammals due to the presence of ocean deployed devices. Propagation of the acoustic signals underwater was modelled with boundary conditions using the finite element method. These include the bathymetry (features of underwater terrain) of the deployment site and properties of the propagation media. The type of spreading of the acoustic signals, and their interaction with the bottom surface interface of the acoustic enviroment was also taken into consideration. The effect of the bottom surface of the acoustic medium was seen to affect the sound pressure level (SPL) values as the sound receiver moves away from the source.
Ampacity forecasting using neural networks
Authors: R. Martínez  , A. González  , A. Madrazo  , M. Mañana  , A. Arroyo  , M.A. Cavia  , R. Domingo  , A. Sierra  , A. Laso
Published: May 2017

Ampacity techniques have been used by Distributor System Operators (DSO) and Transport System Operators (TSO) in order to increase the static rate of transport and distribution infrastructures, especially those who are used for the grid integration of renewable energy. One of the main drawbacks of this technique is related with the fact that DSO and TSO need to do some planning tasks in advance. In order to perform a previous planning it is compulsory to forecast the weather conditions in the short-time. This paper analyses the application of the neural network to the estimation of the ampacity in order to increase the amount of power produced by wind farms that can be integrated into the grid.
Reduction of Losses in the Conductors of a Sustainable Street Lighting as a Technique for Managing Energy Consumption and CO2 Emissions
Authors: J.A. Lobão  , T. Devezas  , J.P.S. Catalão
Published: May 2017

In recent years there has been a series of documents such as the European Strategy 20-20-20 to address the issue of energy efficiency in various sectors of activity. Your objective is to reduce 20% of energy consumption, 20% of GHG emissions (Greenhouse Gases) and get 20% of the energy consumed is from renewable sources [1]. The reduction of losses in the conductors of a sustainable street lighting installation as a technique for managing energy consumption, also allows the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases, accounted for in this paper. Reduction of losses in the conductors of a sustainable street lighting, allowing a better use of the installed power, which can be an important issue, particularly allows increasing the weight of the renewable energies.
By-products from the vegetable oil industry as a feasible source for biofuels production and pollution reduction
Authors: R. Piloto-Rodriguez  , E. A. Melo  , I. Tobio  , L. Goyos  , S. Verhelst
Published: May 2017

Biodiesel produced from by-products and waste materials can be an economical way for reducing the traditional oil consumption and environmental problems. The by-products from the refining vegetable oil industry such as soapstock, acid oil and fatty acid distillates are suitable for producing biodiesel. The present work is an approach to the use of these by-products to obtain biodiesel covering the traditional and most widely used acid/base catalysis. The advantages and drawbacks of the different methods are mentioned and analysed. The synthesis and use of by-products from the vegetable oil refining industry are covered in this work.
Sahara deserts ensure sustainable energy security of MENA countries and Europe
Authors: S. Flazi  , A. Boudghene Stambouli
Published: May 2017

In this article, a particular attention is being given to first the Middle East & north Africa Deserts (MENA) in terms of solar potential capability in that it could capture enough solar energy to meet the entire world's energy needs using Very Large Scale- Photovoltaic (VLS-PV) system, second to its possibility of attracting inhabitant for accessing to a good quality life, agriculture and energy infrastructure, third to its Sand or Silicon (Si) reserves which is more than the needs to manufacture Photovoltaic (PV) cells for all the suitable area of MENA deserts.
Increasing The Efficiency Of The Photovoltaic (PV) Array Utilization With Experimental Results
Authors: F.Z Zerhouni  , M.H Zerhouni  , M. Zegrar  , M.T Benmessaoud  , A. Boudghene Stambouli
Published: May 2017

The reason for this paper is to give methods verified experimentally, to use in an efficient manner, a green system using photovoltaic energy. This study concerns optimization of photovoltaic system operation, in real time. Tracking maximum power method has been verified experimentally. Another technique for optimum switching of photovoltaic (PV) modules with electrical array reconfiguration is proposed, whatever are conditions (insulation, temperature, load). A microcontroller is used as support of the electronic control and practical tests are presented.
Review of Synchronization Algorithms used in Grid-Connected Renewable Agents
Authors: N. F. Guerrero-Rodríguez  , Alexis B. Rey-Boué  , A. Rigas  , V. kleftakis
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a review of several synchronization algorithms used in Grid-Connected Renewable Agents. Different synchronization algorithm structures will be shown and their advantages and disadvantages will be discussed using MATLAB/SIMULINK tool from The MathWorks, Inc. Some simulations will be shown firstly, and secondly, a Real Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) platform will be used for testing and debugging the Synchronization Algorithms.
Social convergence in Nordic countries at regional level
Authors: Kuc Marta
Published: May 2017

Research background: Geographical proximity, common historical roots and collaboration within the Nordic Council cause the Nordic countries to be often wrongly treated as monoliths. However, in reality, Nordic regions differ in terms of broadly defined social and economic development. Issues concerning the standard of living are one of the priorities of the Helsinki Treaty signed by Nordic countries.Purpose of the article: The main goal of this paper is to analyze the existence of the social convergence in the Nordic NUTS-3 regions over the 2000-2015 period. The social convergence refers to a reduction in the dispersion of the standard of living across regions. The results of this analysis may be helpful in evaluating the efficiency of the activities under third and fourth Nordic Strategy for Sustainable Development.Methods: The spatial taxonomic measure of development proposed by Pietrzak was used as the standard of living approximation. Inclusion of spatial relationships in the construction of taxonomic measure of development is justified as regions are not isolated in space and can be affected by other units. The existence of beta-, sigma- and gamma convergence was tested for global spatial aggregate measure and as well for sub-groups of determinants forming the standard of living.Findings and Value added: The analysis showed that the regions with the highest standard of living are those situated on the west coast of Norway. Regions with the lowest standard of living were the ones located in central Finland. However, the most important part of this research was to investigate the existence of beta-, sigma- and gamma- social convergence. The results show that there is no convergence for global standard of living measure. However, the convergence occurs in groups of determinants of education and health care.
Macroeconomic aspects of banks? credit ratings
Authors: Chodnicka-Jaworska Patrycja
Published: May 2017

Research background: The practical analysis suggests that credit ratings are especially significant for banks. The literature review suggests that in previous analysis researchers usually took into consideration financial factors of the banks? credit ratings methodology. This article analyses the impact of macroeconomic factors on the banks? credit ratings.Purpose of the article: The paper examines and analyses the impact of the macroeconomic risk factors on the credit ratings received by banks. In the article, the methodology of credit risk assessment proposed by Moody?s Investor Service and Standard and Poor?s Financial Service is presented. Two hypotheses are put herein. The first one is: Changes in countries? credit ratings convey new information and influence on banks? financial condition. The second hypothesis is: A highly-developed, stable economy with an advanced financial market has a positive influence on banks? credit rating assessment.Methods: The study used banks? and countries? ratings assigned by Standard and Poor's and Moody's for the period from 1 January 2005 to 1 January 2016. To verify the hypotheses static panel data models have been applied.Findings and Value added: In credit rating agencies guidelines and previous research, the impact of countries? credit ratings on those received by banks is not indicated. The impact of macroeconomic factors has not been verified. The analysis confirms that changes in countries? credit ratings convey new information and influence the banks? environment condition. But only for the assessment given by S and P the condition of banking sector is an important group of factors. For all verified types of credit ratings the risk of country is presented by countries? credit rating, not by particular factors. These analyses suggest that during the risk estimation process prepared by banks, a country?s risk represented by its credit ratings should be taken into consideration more often than particular macroeconomic factors.
Monopolistic markups in the Polish food sector
Authors: Kufel-Gajda Justyna
Published: May 2017

Research background: Research background: Agro-food sectors are commonly considered as highly regulated, traditional and of strategic importance, mainly due to the food security issues. Changes in the related market structures are subject of constant interest because of their importance for competition and economic welfare of food producers and consumers. In Poland, a rising concentration among various branches of the food industry can be observed. Unfortunately, there is a lack of studies regarding the level of actually exerted market power.Purpose of the article: The main objective of the article was to depict the changes of the market power execution in the Polish food sector and its branches in the period 2002?2013.Methods: As a measure of market power, markups of price above the marginal cost were applied and for their estimation two methods were used, namely the Roeger method involving primal and dual Solow residuals and the method based on the marginal cost of labor. Yearly data from F-01 financial statements regarding 32 food sector branches and various accounting categories were used in the calculations.Findings and Value added: It was found that in the analyzed period the markup over marginal cost on average amounted to 9.75%, and it was increasing over time. The labor input category seemed to be not sufficient for the markup calculation. The evolution of the monopolistic power in the Polish food sector appears to be associated not only with the business cycle, but also with the sector developments accelerated by the accession to the EU. Moreover, the differences in results for the branches indicate a considerable heterogeneity in the Polish food industry companies pricing practices. The research constitutes the first trial of the measurement of both the Roeger markups in the Polish food sector branches and the labor markups changes in the Polish food sector.
Intervention on the agricultural land market in relation to the end of the transitional period for purchasing agricultural land by foreigners
Authors: Lizińska Wiesława , Marks-Bielska Renata , Babuchowska Karolina
Published: May 2017

Research background: A traditional form of state intervention in agriculture comprised regulating the rights to ownership. One of the often discussed aspects of regulations refers to those binding for foreigners.Purpose of the article: The objective of the article was to analyse the position (of the European Economic and Social Committee and the Polish legislator) regarding the phenomenon of purchasing agricultural property by foreigners as well as the opinions of farmers on the consequences for the agricultural land market resulting from ending the transitional period in Poland for purchasing agricultural property by foreigners as on 1 May 2016.Methods: Direct studies were conducted in 2015 among 86 farmers in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship.Findings and Value added: The main reason for such a discussion conducted globally and in Europe is the phenomenon of excessive concentration and the use of land for non-agricultural purposes. Whereas, the European Economic and Social Committee indicates that in order to limit unfavourable practices in the EU member states, activities directed at preventing speculation, preserving local traditions and ensuring a proper usufruct of land should be permitted. The majority of farmers were afraid of the changes in the agricultural land market after the end of the transitional period in purchasing agricultural property by foreigners.  They emphasised the above by expressing opinions on regulations binding in the transitional period and their effectiveness. With regard to the provisions of the Act of 5 August 2015, farmers were afraid of an increase in prices of agricultural land and the capital advantage of foreigners.
Banking concentration in the Baltic and Western Balkan states ? selected issues
Authors: Kubiszewska Katarzyna
Published: May 2017

Research background: In a rapidly changing economic environment companies deepen their cooperation, which occurs in all sectors of the economy. The progressive increase in market concentration, especially in the banking sector, is caused by various reasons.Purpose of the article: The purpose of this article is to compare the tendencies within market structures in few countries which origin from similar political systems and which have got experience in transformation of banking sectors.Methods: The research concerns the Baltic and the Western Balkan States. Concentration of the banking sectors, as measured by both HHI and CR5 indices changed during the quoted period, as a result of the consolidation of the sector. The study revealed a distinct change in the growth rate of market concentration and the number of banks, and is based on data provided by the local central banks and the European Central Bank.Findings and Value added: The situation in banking sectors in the Western Balkans differed significantly, which could be explained by strong economic ties, particularly with Germany and Austria. In this region, the raising concentration of the banking markets is related to the decreasing number of banks, while in the Sea Baltic States the increasing number of institutions is accomplished by the falling concentration ratio. The paper concerns the developments of the banking sectors which are not yet well described and do not belong to the mainstream of research in the Polish literature, meaning the region of the Western Balkans.