bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in Physical Performance of Amateur Mountain Bikers in the Preparatory Period
Authors: Bazańska-Janas Marta , Janas Marek 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Introduction. The aim of the research was to assess the changes in the main physical performance indicators, i.e. maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), the threshold of anaerobic changes (AT) and “exercise efficiency” (oxygen consumption/power; VO2/ WR) in amateur mountain bikers in the preparatory period. In addition, diagnostic usefulness was made of selected respiratory, circulatory and metabolic parameters to assess the training progress in cycling.

Materials and methods. Thirty-six men training in amateur mountain biking took part in the research. Each of them underwent three ergospirometry tests at the beginning, in the middle (after 7 weeks) and at the end of the preparatory period (after 14 weeks). The results obtained at the AT threshold and at maximum effort were analysed to check how physical training in the preparatory period affected selected exercise parameters.

Results. No significant changes in the VO2max value were observed during the preparatory period, but a significant increase in this indicator (in absolute terms and in terms of body weight) was found at the AT level. An increase was noted in power as well as in measured metabolic, ventilation and circulatory parameters with the exception of heart rate and ventilation equivalent oxygen. VO2/WR decreased, which indicates an improvement in the effectiveness of the effort.

Conclusions. For Polish amateur cyclists with extensive training experience, the most diagnostic indicators in the preparatory period include improving the AT threshold (shift towards higher % VO2max and higher generated power) and increasing exercise efficiency.
Experimental Study on Dynamic Structure of Propeller Tip Vortex
Authors: Guangnian Li , Chen Qingren , Liu Yue 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Propeller cavitation is a main source of fluctuating pressure and noise induced by propellers, and the tip vortex cavitation is the principal source. The present study measures the flow fields near the blade tip using the 2D-PIV technique. The experimental setup and scheme are introduced. We monitor the process of generation and shedding of the propeller tip vortex in real time and analyse the dynamic structure of the tip vortex by testing the propeller wake field under different phases of the axial plane. The distribution characteristics of radial and axial velocity are also analysed. The influence range and the vorticity of the tip vortex and trailing vortex are obtained. All of the measured quantitative data are useful for future propeller design.
Parameters Identification of the Flexible Fin Kinematics Model Using Vision and Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Jurczyk Karolina , Piskur Paweł , Szymak Piotr 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Recently a new type of autonomous underwater vehicle uses artificial fins to imitate the movements of marine animals, e.g. fish. These vehicles are biomimetic and their driving system is an undulating propulsion. There are two main methods of reproducing undulating motion. The first method uses a flexible tail fin, which is connected to a rigid hull by a movable axis. The second method is based on the synchronised operation of several mechanical joints to imitate the tail movement that can be observed among real marine animals such as fish. This paper will examine the first method of reproducing tail fin movement. The goal of the research presented in the paper is to identify the parameters of the one-piece flexible fin kinematics model. The model needs further analysis, e.g. using it with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in order to select the most suitable prototype for a Biomimetic Underwater Vehicle (BUV). The background of the work is explained in the first section of the paper and the kinematic model for the flexible fin is described in the next section. The following section is entitled Materials and Methods, and includes a description of a laboratory test of a water tunnel, a description of a Vision Algorithm (VA)which was used to determine the positions of the fin, and a Genetic Algorithm (GA) which was used to find the parameters of the kinematic fin. In the next section, the results of the research are presented and discussed. At the end of the paper, the summary including main conclusions and a schedule of the future research is inserted.
Effect of Engine Speeds and Dimethyl Ether on Methyl Decanoate HCCI Combustion and Emission Characteristics Based on Low-Speed Two-Stroke Diesel Engine
Authors: Wang Shiye , Yao Li 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The combustion and emission characteristics of homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) fuelled by methyl decanoate (MD) with different engine speeds and dimethyl ether (DME) mixing ratios are investigated in this work. Engine data of a MAN B&W 6S70MC low-speed two-stroke marine diesel engine were used for the reactor. The results show that a decrease of engine speed has little effect on the in-cylinder temperature and pressure of the engine at constant excess air coefficient of 1.5. Meanwhile, NOx emissions decrease with a decrease of engine speed in pure MD HCCI combustion. The results also indicate that NOx and CO2 emissions decrease significantly with an increase in the percentage of DME in MD and DME mixing combustion at a constant total mole fraction and engine speed of 85 revolutions per minute (r/min).
Energy Analysis of the Propulsion Shaft Fatigue Process in a Rotating Mechanical System Part II Identification Studies – Developing the Fatigue Durability Model of a Drive Shaft
Authors: Korczewski Zbigniew , Marszałkowski Konrad 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The article presents a continuation of research carried out concerning identification of energy consequences of mechanical fatigue within a propeller shaft in a rotating mechanical system, while working under conditions of the loss of the required alignment of shaft lines. Experimental research was carried out on a physical model reflecting a full-sized real object: i.e., the propulsion system of the ship. It is proven, by means of an active experiment, that changes in propeller shaft deflection are reflected in the amount of dissipated kinetic energy of masses in rotational motion and the accumulated internal energy in its construction material. Adoption of a high-cycle fatigue syndrome, consisting of diagnostic symptoms determined from the action of the propeller shaft associated with the transformation of mechanical energy into work and heat, as well as with the generation of mechanical vibrations and elastic waves of acoustic emission, is proposed. To assess the diagnostic information quantity brought about by the defined features of propeller shaft fatigue, an experimental research program was developed and implemented, in which two statistical hypotheses are verified: the significance of the impact of the values enforcing the fatigue process, presented in the first part of the article, and the adequacy of the regression equation describing the fatigue durability of the propeller shaft in the energy aspect, constituting the second part of the article. This finally gives us the opportunity, after the appropriate translation of the model test results into full-sized real objects, to develop a methodology to diagnose marine propeller shaft fatigue in operating conditions. The third part of the article is devoted to this issue
Detection of Floating Objects Based on Hydroacoustic and Hydrodynamic Pressure Measurements in the Coastal Zone
Authors: Buszman Krystian , Gloza Małgorzata 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The development of coastal infrastructure and related maritime transport necessitatesthe intensification of vessel traffic monitoring. Navigation systems used in this research are traditionally based on the information transmitted by radio waves. Marine traffic safety requires constant supervision carried out by dedicated systems, the operation of which may be limitedby difficult environmental conditions. The possibilities of supporting navigation systems with underwater observation systems are explored here. The research was carried out using an underwater measurement system. Local disturbances of the hydroacoustic and hydrodynamic field from the moving vessels were analysed. The potential for identifying a moving vessel, for example for offshore infrastructure security purposes, is demonstrated.
Archaeological Distribution of Geoheritage for Geotourism Development in Nakhon Sawan Province, Thailand
Authors: Singtuen Vimoltip , Phajuy Burapha 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Nakhon Sawan Province is located in Upper Central Thailand, where the Chao Phraya River, the vital river of Thailand, begins. According to the distribution of the archaeological sites, the related geological features were divided into two groups by geodiversity scope: (1) hydrological sites - Chao Phraya river, Bueng Boraphet lake, (2) speleological sites - Tham Phet-Tham Thong cave and Khoa Nor mountain. The hydrological sites are the primary water resources of local people since many hundred years, including transportation, agriculture, and fishery, so there are many archaeological sites around there. In addition, the speleological sites are covered with limestones intruded by the granitic rocks, which has caused ore deposition in the form of skarn. The evidence of antiquities in the archaeological site near speleological sites suggests that ancient people discovered and produced their ores, notably iron in the studied area. Based on inventory, characterization, classification, and assessment methods, this preliminary geoarchaeology study can support Nakhon Sawan to promote geotourism for sustainability by their stunning geological features, fantastic nature as well as beautiful culture, both past and present.
Does Consumer Spirituality Block the Road Toward Innovativeness? A Moderated Mediation Approach
Authors: Aashish Garg , Singh Dhaliwal Ran 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Innovation is the only way to sustain in a highly competitive market, and the success of innovative products depends on the innovativeness level of the consumers. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between consumer spirituality and consumer innovativeness through the mediating role of materialism. The study also attempts to determine the moderated mediation effect by taking gender as a moderator. In this study, the data were collected from 237 consumers through online surveys and from some target locations like malls, universities, public places in Punjab and Chandigarh by adopting judgemental sampling technique. Results indicated a significant negative relationship between consumer spirituality with materialism and consumer innovativeness while materialism and consumer innovativeness are significantly positively related. Furthermore, results showed that materialism mediates the relation between consumer spirituality and consumer innovativeness among both gender categories, but there is no moderated mediation effect of gender. The implications for marketing managers are discussed.
Understanding New Trend in Business: Inter-Firm Cooperative Alliance Between Competing Organizations
Authors: Kyungjae Lee Steve 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Traditional economics-based framework suggests that firm cooperates with competitors to increase its market power or efficiency in transaction for the maximization of its self-interest profit. However, nowadays growing numbers of firm engage in alliance with competitors for non-economic purpose. This paper seeks to understand the nature of inter-firm alliance between direct competitors by discussing several critical issues regarding it. The issues are chosen by the criterion that useful perspectives from either organization theory or strategic management can be applied to this phenomenon so that scholars are encouraged and can be easier to do a research on this topic in the future. In this regard, I seek to answer the question of why firm cooperates with competitor by comparatively adopting four novel approaches, which, combined together, provide an excellent complementary view to the traditional economics-based approach. Also, by understanding the distinctive feature of decision-making process when firm conduct a collaboration with competitor this study provides a practical insight on how firm structures, manages, and makes a decision when it cooperates with competitors. Overall, several conceptual ideas suggested by this paper can be an interesting starting point for the future empirical research.
Tourism Forecasting and Tackling Fluctuating Patterns: A Composite Leading Indicator Approach
Authors: Ann-Ni Soh , Chin-Hong Puah , Affendy Arip M. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
A growing interest is surfacing toward the non-linearities in tourism demand forecasting. This paper aims to construct a tourism composite indicator to anticipate the cyclical movement for the tourism demand in Fiji. The time duration tackled in the current study is under the span of approximately two decades from 2000 to 2017. Apart from an indicator construction approach and turning point dating algorithm, we proposed a two regime Markov switching model to analyse the Fijian tourism cycle. The empirical results revealed the composite leading indicator accorded a signalling approach for Fijian tourism demand with an average lead time of 2.75 months. Furthermore, the prior-recognition of the tourism economic transition with adequate dating evaluation of the tourism cycle is obtained from the filtered probabilities through the Markov switching models.
The Differential Impacts of Foreign Direct Investment on Genders in the Service Sector of South Asia
Authors: Tamang Tenzin 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
This study investigated: 1) the impacts of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on gender inequality (2005-2015) in the service sector of South Asia; 2) the factors that moderate the impacts of FDI on gender inequality in the service sector. The study was approached as a quantitative study using secondary data on Greenfield FDI and women employment. It employs a fixed-effect model: panel regression with and without interaction terms. The study finds that: first, gender inequality in the service sector of South Asia has increased over time. Second, FDI inflow share a significant negative correlation with female employment. Third, women’s human capital and institutional settings moderate the impact of FDI on gender inequality in the service sector of South Asia.
On Magnetically Coupled Coils Parameter Calculation
Authors: Bobaru Lavinia Maria , Stănculescu Marilena , Niculae D. , Iordache M. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
ANSYS Q3D Extractor tool (AQ3DE), using the quasi-static solvers (method of moments, integral equations and FEMs), is very efficient for computing and simulating two- and three-dimensional electromagnetic field. This simulation is used to extract parameters of interest, such as: resistance (R), conductance (G), self-inductance (L), mutual inductance (M) and capacitance (C). These parameters can be further used to optimize and to obtain automatically the design of a wireless power transfer systems (WPTS). The resulting matrices allow the generation of new matrices for any selected parameters. To complete the analysis, the model which is computed will be exported as an equivalent circuit. In this paper, starting from a given WPTS, using AQ3DE tool, the parameters of interest (R, G, L, M, C) were automatically calculated, and the SPICE equivalent circuit was obtained. The analysis was performed for two different distances between the emitter and the receiver. The electrical circuit theory was used for the system analysis of magnetically coupled coil (MCC) system. Starting from the parameters extracted by the AQ3DE tool, the performance of the WPTS has been analysed both in time and frequency domain.
Modeling of Dispersion Magnetic Fields Developed by the Main Electromagnetic Systems Used on Military Ships
Authors: Solcanu V. , Gaiceanu M. , Constantinescu M. , Samoilescu Ghe. , Sotir A. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
In this paper, the authors present the modelling methods and numerical calculation of the dispersion magnetic field of electrical machines, as well as the results of their validation through practical measurements. An adequate analytic formula for magnetic induction calculation is proposed by the authors. The experimental results validate the proposed analytic model. Moreover, the proposed model is valid for both near and far field regions.
A Frequency Reference for Carrier Synthesis in Wireless Standard 802.11g
Authors: Ursac Iulian , Constantinescu Florin , Marin Mihai 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
A new approach to a frequency synthesizer is proposed: instead of a fixed frequency reference oscillator and a variable ratio frequency divider we use a variable frequency reference oscillator and a fixed ratio frequency divider. The implementation and characterization of a low phase-noise compensated oscillator used as frequency reference for a wireless transceiver is described. This circuit employs a high Q piezoelectric resonator together with a CMOS cross coupled pair amplifier. A calibration circuit for compensation of frequency errors with respect to process variation is proposed.
Cooperative Second-Cycle Breeding and Testing of Coastal Douglas-fir in the US Pacific Northwest: Strategy, Implementation, and Operational Aspects
Authors: Jayawickrama KJS , Ye TZ 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The second cycle of cooperative breeding and testing of coastal Douglas-fir in western Oregon and Washington was started around 1992. By 2020 the bulk of testing is nearing completion, while the latest program in southern Oregon and NW California is scheduled to run through 2035. A total of 109 first-generation programs were consolidated into nine second- cycle breeding and testing cooperatives (with 15 testing zones); 136 tests are planned, of which 120 have already been established. Between five and eight tests are established per trial series. Trials established to date have contained from 50 to 283 full-sib crosses. In total, the Douglas-fir breeding effort will be comprised of over 2,900 crosses, of which 2,500 have already been established in the field. A total of about 349,000 test trees are to be planted, with over 310,000 already planted.
Tests typically get three main measurements when the trees are 3 (or 4), 7 and 12 years old from seed. (1) Age-3 or 4: progression of budburst, on a 1 to 5 rating score, when roughly 50 % of the seedlings have broken bud, on one or two sites per trial series. (2) Age-7: height (height pole), dbh, stem sinuosity in the second internode from the top, number of incidences of stem forking, number of incidences of ramicorn branching and (3) Age-12: height (vertex), dbh, stem sinuosity in the second internode from the top, number of incidences of stem forking, number of incidences of ramicorn branching, second flushing yes\no in current year, and wood acoustic velocity (in some trial series).
Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety Profile of Intense Pulsed Light Treatment in Melasma in Darker Skin Type
Authors: Choudhary Nishant , De Abhishek , Sil Amrita , Chatterjee Gobinda 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Introduction. We undertook a prospective, interventional study to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of Intense Pulsed light (IPL) treatment of melasma in dark skin phenotypes.

Material and Methods. The study was conducted in 32 patients of skin type IV and V. IPL with 640 nm and 690 nm filters was used. The patients were called once a month to undergo 6 sessions. Melasma area and severity index (MASI) and Clinician Global Impression Scores were used for evaluation. We followed “per protocol” analysis.

Results. Out of 26 patients who completed the treatment, 12 patients showed improvement, MASI remained unchanged in 10 patients and 4 patients showed deterioration. MASI scores before and after treatment were 6.70 ± 3.53 and 6.32 ± 3.90 (p value=0.6891). Erythema and pain were the common side effects noted. Seventeen out of 32 patients had thyroid disorders.

Conclusion. IPL should be avoided as a first line therapy in darker skin type. However, it can be used as an adjuvant therapy in some cases after careful deliberations.
Value-Sensitive Co-Design for Resilient Information Systems
Authors: Primiero Giuseppe , Barn Balbir , Barn Ravinder 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
In Information Systems development, resilience has often been treated as a non-functional requirement and little or no work is aimed at building resilience in end-users through systems development. The question of how values and resilience (for the end-user) can be incorporated into the design of systems is an on-going research activity in user-centered design. In this paper we evaluate the relation of values and resilience within the context of an ongoing software development project and contribute a formal model of co-design based on a significant extension of Abstract Design Theory. The formal analysis provides a full and clear-cut definition of the co-design space, its objectives and processes. On the basis of both, we provide an abstract definition of resilient system (for the end-user). We conclude that value-sensitive co-design enforces better resilience in end-users.
The Philosophy of Expertise in the Age of Medical Informatics: How Healthcare Technology is Transforming Our Understanding of Expertise and Expert Knowledge?
Authors: Rządeczka Marcin 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The unprecedented development of medical informatics is constantly transforming the concept of expertise in medical sciences in a way that has far-reaching consequences for both the theory of knowledge and the philosophy of informatics. Deep medicine is based on the assumption that medical diagnosis should take into account the wide array of possible health factors involved in the diagnostic process, such as not only genome analysis alone, but also the metabolome (analysis of all body metabolites important for e.g. drug-drug interactions), microbiome (i.e. analysis of all bodily microorganisms interacting with host cells) or exposome (analysis of all environmental factors triggering potentially harmful cell mutations, such as UV radiation, heavy metals, various carcinogens, etc.). Deep data analysis is of tantamount importance for personalized diagnosis but, at the same time, hardly achievable by a regular human being. However, adequately designed artificial intelligence (e.g. a deep neural network) can undeniably be of great help for finding correlations between symptoms and underlying diseases. Nowadays AI applies to nearly every aspect of medicine, starting from the data analysis of scientific literature, through the diagnostic process, to the act of communication between physicians and their patients. Medical image processing algorithms greatly enhance the chances of successful recognition of melanoma or intestinal polyps. Communication tools designed for physicians use techniques known from social media to provide users with an opportunity to consult the case with colleagues from the same discipline. Natural language processing tools significantly improve doctor-patient communication by the automation of note-taking. Is this enough to support the claim that the non-epistemic competences in medicine are becoming more and more important? Can we attribute expertise only to a person? How is medical informatics changing the way most people usually understand human-computer interactions?