bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High Sensitivity Methane Sensor By Chemically Deposited Nanocrystalline Zno Thin Film
Authors: Roy Sunipa , Saha H. , Sarkar C. K. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
-Nanocrystalline n-ZnO thin films were deposited on SiO2-coated (0.45 μm) p type Si substrates (10-20Ω-cm) by a low cost chemical deposition technique to fabricate ZnO-based resistive sensors for methane detection. The nanocrystalline ZnO needle like structures were grown on RCA cleaned p-Si<100> substrates by successive immersion (100-200 times) into a Sodium Zincate bath (0.125M) kept at room temperature and DI water maintained at 90 °C . The Sodium Zincate was prepared by reacting Zinc Sulphate and excess Sodium Hydroxide in aqueous solution. The film thickness of 1.5 μm (approx.) for 75 dippings was obtained. The dipping time is 1 second. The annealing was done at a lower temperature (150 °C) for 30 minutes in air. Structural characteristics were studied by FESEM and EDAX to indicate the formation of ZnO with vertical orientation. The hexagonal needle like structures of 0.3-0.5μm diameter and 1-1.5μm length were formed. The resistance of the ZnO films in ambient air (zero level for gas sensing) was found to be stable and reproducible after several thermal cyclings. Surface modification with palladium (0.01% PdCl2 for 5 seconds) was done to enhance sensitivity; so that the ZnO thin films can give significant response to target gases at the operating temperature of as low as 130°C, compared to the normal operating temperature range of 200–400°C for zinc oxide resistive gas sensors. The planar gold contacts were deposited by vacuum evaporation technique. The device was then tested for its methane sensing property at different operating temperatures (150,175,200,250,300,350°C) and at 5 different methane concentrations (0.01,0.05,0.1,0.5,1%) taking N2 as a carrier gas. The response magnitude, response time and recovery time were studied in detail for both Pd modified and unmodified ZnO film. The maximum response of 99.76% and the lowest response time of 39 seconds were obtained at 200°C for Pd modified sensor. A high sensitivity to methane even at low temperature (130°C) was observed comparable to those obtained by more sophisticated and expensive deposition process e.g. MOCVD.
An Approach Towards Development Of Pmv Based Thermal Comfort Smart Sensor
Authors: Kumar Anuj , Singh I. P. , Sud S. K. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
ASHRAE 55-2004 and ISO 7730 standards failed to predict actual comfort level and lead to oversize design of HVAC system. So proper thermal environment monitoring is an important subject to have right size of HVAC systems. A prototype thermal EM system has been developed. Thermal environment parameters such as: temperature, relative humidity, CO and CO2 are measured by using the developed system. These data are used to calculate the thermal comfort index. The subjective judgments and the calculated PMV are compared with the results. The results showed the possibility of using PMV based thermal comfort smart sensor.
Low-Frequency Localization And Identification System With Zigbee Network
Authors: Ropponen A. , Linnavuo M. , Sepponen R. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Location awareness is important in health care. One way of generating this is a low-frequency radio frequency identification (RFID) location system that has been developed. The system tracks RFID tags with a quad antenna matrix that is placed under the floor surface. The tag can be also used to receive alarms and send acknowledgements via a ZigBee network. This article discusses the requirements of this kind of a tag, its structure, and its location accuracy. The demonstrated RFID system can locate people and items inside the building with an accuracy of 1.1 ± 0.5 m (S. D.).
Embedded Sensing And Actuation For Helmets Co2 Levels Control
Authors: Kemp John , Gaura Elena , Brusey James , Thake Doug 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
The paper reports on the development and evaluation of a simple closed loop solution for controlling the CO2 levels within small enclosed environments, such as Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) protective suit helmets. Based on a detailed analysis of the helmet environment during bomb disposal missions, the solution proposed automates the current manually controlled fan integrated within the helmet to achieve an effective, timely and energy efficient, control system.
Whilst the paper and its supporting experimental work focus on the particular case study of operatives wearing EOD suit helmets, the methods proposed and the control system development methodology are generic and directly applicable to a wide class of helmet usage scenarios.
The main contributions in the paper are as follows: i) the design and implementation of an empirical helmet model based on data collected with a bespoke helmet embedded instrument developed by the authors; and ii) the production of a simple but effective fan air flow control algorithm for containing CO2 concentration exposure during missions, and an associated evaluation simulator/test bed. The resulting closed loop, automated sensing and actuation system extends the otherwise short fan battery lifetime to cover entire missions, delivers a healthy breathing environment for the operative and minimises noise disruption associated with the use of the fan. The control algorithm outperforms fixed airflow settings in terms of energy efficiency.
Hscloud: Cloud Architecture for Supporting Homeland Security
Authors: Fazio M. , Paone M. , Puliafito A. , Villari M. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Governmental institutions all over the world are trying to increase the level of security of their countries emphasizing the usage Information Technology solutions. We believe that Cloud Computing may strongly help Homeland Security, since it offers a very flexible support for organizing and managing heterogeneous systems, providing huge amount of processing, storing and sensing resources. In this work we introduce a new Cloud architecture able to virtualize different types of sensing environments in virtual sensing elements, logically belonging to Cooperating Clouds. It represents a very flexible solution, which offers seamless, secure and advanced services to support Homeland Security.
Monitoring the Postural Stability of Planar Bipedal Robots using the Moment-Height Stability Measure
Authors: Alghooneh Mansoor , Takhmar Amir , Moosavian S. Ali. A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Robotics researchers have studied the stability maintenance requirements of bipedal robots since they are inherently unstable. An accurate postural stability measure is required to monitor their dynamic equilibrium conditions. In this article, the novel Moment-Height Stability (MHS) measure, which has previously been developed for monitoring the postural stability of wheeled mobile robots, is developed for that of bipedal robots. The performance of the MHS is evaluated with that of the well-known postural stability measure Zero-Moment Point (ZMP). The MHS and the ZMP are applied to two types of manoeuvres of a planar bipedal robot, consisting of standing up and swinging forward. Simulation results reveal that both the ZMP and the MHS predict the same instant for the occurrence of postural instability for the biped; the MHS warns the biped that the potential of postural instability amplifies once the overall height of the biped center of mass (CM) starts elevating, while the ZMP does so immediately before the occurrence of postural instability.
Synthesis of SrTiO3 Nanopowder by Sol-Gel-Hydrothemal Method for Gas Sensing Application
Authors: Kajale D. D. , Patil G. E. , Gaikwad V. B. , Shinde S. D. , Chavan D. N. , Pawar N. K. , Shirsath S. R. , Jain G. H. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Strontium titanate (SrTiO3) nanopowder has been synthesized through a sol-gel-hydrothermal method. The X-ray diffraction studies of SrTiO3 nanopowder have shown that the as-prepared powder was single phase, crystalline, and has a cubic perovskite structure (ABO3) with a lattice constant a = 3.903 Å. The particle size calculated from FWHM was ∼22 nm. SrTiO3 nanopowder was examined using thermo gravimetric analysis; differential thermal analysis and UV-visible absorption spectroscopy. The transmission electron microscopic investigations have shown that the particle size of the as-prepared powder has a mean size of 34 nm. Then highly sensitive and selective sensors to H2S based on glass substrate were fabricated successfully by screen-printing technique. Sensitivity, selectivity, response time, and recovery time of the sensors were systematically investigated as a function of operating temperature, using H2S, CO, CO2, H2, Cl2, LPG, C2H5OH, O2, NH3 and NO2 as test gases. The sensitivity was found to lie below and around the ppm level for H2S gas at 150 °C.
Nanostructured Fe2O3 Thick Film as an Ethanol Sensor
Authors: Pawar N. K. , Kajale D. D. , Patil G. E. , Wagh V. G. , Gaikwad V. B. , Deore M. K. , Jain G. H. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Thick films of AR Grade nano Fe2O3 material with n-type semiconducting properties were prepared and tested for their gas sensing performances. Thick films of the materials were prepared by screen printing technique. The gas sensing performance was studied using static gas sensing system. The material was tested for various gases such as CO, CO2, NH3, Cl2, H2, LPG, ethanol and H2S. The nano Fe2O3 film showed maximum sensitivity to ethanol gas at 350 °C temperature at 250 ppm concentration with short response time and large recovery time. Physical and structural properties of the film material were studied by SEM, TEM, XRD and UV spectroscopy.
Preparation and Characterization of Zirconia Based Thick Film Resistor as a Ammonia Gas Sensor
Authors: Deshmukh S. B. , Bari R. H. , Patil G. E. , Kajale D. D. , Jain G. H. , Patil L. A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Thick film technique is popular because of low cost, simple for construction and better sensing surface area, hence for resistive gas sensor thick films of pure ZrO2 powder were prepared by Standard screen printing technique. The material was characterized by X-Ray diffraction pattern, surface morphology was observed by SEM, elemental composition were observed by EDAX and optical properties were studied with UV spectroscopy Techniques, electrical properties were studying with different applied voltages and at different working temperature. X-Ray Diffraction studies confirmed that the combinations of tetragonal and monoclinic structure. The energy band gap and the thicknesses of the films were evaluated, the crystalline grain size was determined using Scherrer’s formula. The gas sensing performances of various gases were tested with working temperatures from 100° to 500°c. The sensitivity and selectivity to different gases was tested and the resistive thick films showed highest response to NH3 (100 ppm) at 300°c. It was observed that increase in gas concentration its sensing response goes on increasing but slowly increase being still constant for higher concentration. The sensitivity and selectivity may be further enhanced by doping other element and ZrO2 can be stabilize by mixing other oxides. The quick response and fast recovery time was recorded.
Some Classes of Modified Ratio Type Estimators in Sample Surveys
Authors: Swain A. K. P. C. , Das Manjula 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
In this paper some classes of modified ratio type estimators with additive and multiplicative adjustments made to the simple mean per unit estimator and classical ratio estimator are suggested to obtain more efficient ratio type estimators compared to the classical one. Their biases and mean square errors are obtained and compared with first order approximations.
Improved Separate Ratio and Product Exponential Type Estimators in the Case of Post-Stratification
Authors: Lone Hilal A. , Tailor Rajesh 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
This paper addressed the problem of estimation of finite population mean in the case of post-stratification. Improved separate ratio and product exponential type estimators in the case of post-stratification are suggested. The biases and mean squared errors of the suggested estimators are obtained up to the first degree of approximation. Theoretical and empirical studies have been done to demonstrate better efficiencies of the suggested estimators than other considered estimators.
Policy-Oriented Inference and the Analyst-Client Cooperation. An Example from Small-Area Statistics
Authors: Longford Nicholas T. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
We show on an application to small-area statistics that efficient estimation is not always conducive to good policy decisions because the established inferential procedures have no capacity to incorporate the priorities and preferences of the policy makers and the related consequences of incorrect decisions. A method that addresses these deficiencies is described. We argue that elicitation of the perspectives of the client (sponsor) and their quantification are essential elements of the analysis because different estimators (decisions) are appropriate for different perspectives. An example of planning an intervention in a developing country’s districts with high rate of illiteracy is described. The example exposes the deficiencies of the general concept of efficiency and shows that the criterion for the quality of an estimator has to be formulated specifically for the problem at hand. In the problem, the established small-area estimators perform poorly because the minimum mean squared error is an inappropriate criterion.
Application of Box-Jenkins Method and Artificial Neural Network Procedure for Time Series Forecasting of Prices
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Mishra G. C. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Forecasting of prices of commodities, especially those of agricultural commodities, is very difficult because they are not only governed by demand and supply but also by so many other factors which are beyond control, such as weather vagaries, storage capacity, transportation, etc. In this paper time series models namely ARIMA (Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average) methodology given by Box and Jenkins has been used for forecasting prices of Groundnut oil in Mumbai. This approach has been compared with ANN (Artificial Neural Network) methodology. The results showed that ANN performed better than the ARIMA models in forecasting the prices.
Robust Regression in Monthly Business Survey
Authors: Dehnel Grażyna 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
There are many sample surveys of populations that contain outliers (extreme values). This is especially true in business, agricultural, household and medicine surveys. Outliers can have a large distorting influence on classical statistical methods that are optimal under the assumption of normality or linearity. As a result, the presence of extreme observations may adversely affect estimation, especially when it is carried out at a low level of aggregation. To deal with this problem, several alternative techniques of estimation, less sensitive to outliers, have been proposed in the statistical literature. In this paper we attempt to apply and assess some robust regression methods (LTS, M-estimation, S-estimation, MM-estimation) in the business survey conducted within the framework of official statistics.
Ratio-to-Regression Estimator in Successive Sampling Using One Auxiliary Variable
Authors: Ralte Zoramthanga , Das Gitasree 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
The problem of estimation of finite population mean on the current occasion based on the samples selected over two occasions has been considered. In this paper, first a chain ratio-to-regression estimator was proposed to estimate the population mean on the current occasion in two-occasion successive (rotation) sampling using only the matched part and one auxiliary variable, which is available in both the occasions. The bias and mean square error of the proposed estimator is obtained. We proposed another estimator, which is a linear combination of the means of the matched and unmatched portion of the sample on the second occasion. The bias and mean square error of this combined estimator is also obtained. The optimum mean square error of this combined estimator was compared with (i) the optimum mean square error of the estimator proposed by Singh (2005) (ii) mean per unit estimator and (iii) combined estimator suggested by Cochran (1977) when no auxiliary information is used on any occasion. Comparisons are made both analytically as well as empirically by using real life data.
Using Symbolic Data in Gravity Model of Population Migration to Reduce Modifiable Areal Unit Problem (MAUP)
Authors: Wilk Justyna 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Spatial analyses suffer from modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP). This occurs while operating on aggregated data determined for high-level territorial units, e.g. official statistics for countries. Generalization process deprives the data of variation. Carrying out research excluding territorial distribution of a phenomenon affects the analysis results and reduces their reliability. The paper proposes to use symbolic data analysis (SDA) to reduce MAUP. SDA proposes an alternative form of individual data aggregation and deals with multivariate analysis of inter-valvalued, multi-valued and histogram data.
The paper discusses the scale effect of MAUP which occurs in a gravity model of population migrations and shows how SDA can deal with this problem. Symbolic interval-valued data was used to determine the economic distance between regions which served as a separation function in the model. The proposed approach revealed that economic disparities in Poland are lower than official statistics show but they are still one of the most important factors of domestic migration flows.
Analysis of Convergence of European Regions with the Use of Composite Index
Authors: Górna Joanna , Górna Karolina 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Convergence study is related to several crucial issues. One of those problems is an individual character of every region in the selected area, as the regions established accordingly to the European classification system NUTS-2 are not homogeneous. Therefore, while analysing convergence in the European Union, regions with extremely dissimilar characteristics (for example GDP per capita) are taken under consideration. Absolute β-convergence means that all of the investigated regions tend to the same level of economic growth. Thus, among the regions with highly differential amounts of the examined variables the convergence hypothesis can be rejected. Due to the heterogeneity in the conducted investigation a classification based on the composite index will be used so that the convergence clubs could be established. Several approaches to convergence will be used according to those regimes. Moreover, there will be an attempt to indicate the determinants that differentiate the selected regions, such as: expenditure on R&D, HRST, quantity of patents, employment, participation of people in tertiary education among all employees. This will allow the analysis of conditional β-convergence to be conducted. In the investigation some methods and models offered by the spatial statistics and econometrics will be used. There are empirical proofs that geographical location has a great impact on the processes of economic growth. Consequently, spatial dependencies will be analysed as well.
Application of Multifactorial Market-timing Models to Assess Risk and Effectiveness of Equity-Linked Insurance Funds in Poland
Authors: Homa Magdalena , Mościbrodzka Monika 
Published: November 2017

AbstractTraditionally, models developed by Treynor and Mazuy (T-M) and also by Henriksson-Merton (H-M), which are called market-timing models, are applied to assess effectiveness of investment funds. The objective of the presented study is an application of the T-M and H-M models and their T-M-FF and H-M-FF modifications with additional Fama-French factors to assess effectiveness and risk of equity insurance connected with unit-linked insurance. Estimation and verification of the models for the subject group of equity funds were performed and the significance of the impact of particular factors on returns on reference portfolios was discussed.
Official Statistics on Personal Well-Being: Some Reflections on the Development and use of Subjective Well-Being Measures in the UK
Authors: Allin Paul 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
This paper draws on experience of the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) programme to measure national well-being, particularly the high-profile element of the programme in which subjective well-being measures have been collected and published since April 2011. We reflect on drivers of the ONS work and on how these have given rise to interest both in national well-being – the Beyond GDP agenda – and in the use of subjective well-being measures (self-reported, personal well-being) in public policy. Although we touch briefly on measurement and analysis issues, we mainly concentrate on user requirements, the international context, and political, policy, public and business use of well-being data.
Using the Day Reconstruction Method to Quantify Time Spent Suffering Among Older Adults with Chronic Pain
Authors: Smith Dylan M. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
The Day Reconstruction Method (DRM) is a structured diary designed to measure time use in a manner that is more valid than traditional written summary measures, but less burdensome than real-time electronic diary methods. The lower respondent burden and administration costs might make it feasible to utilize this method in large national surveys. Past studies using the DRM have generally focused on subjective mood states during different types of activities. In this study, we extended the DRM to also measure suffering from negative symptoms, such as pain and fatigue, in 122 older adults, most of whom suffer from chronic pain. Results indicated that the method was well tolerated in this population, with over 98% of the sample providing interpretable responses. Chronic pain respondents reported spending a considerable proportion of their day suffering from pain, fatigue, and depression; a much higher proportion than reported by healthy controls (p’s < .01). Time spent suffering was associated with lower income, negative mood, and lower life satisfaction and quality of life.
Operationalization and Estimation of Balanced Development Index for Poland 1999-2016
Authors: Koźmiński Andrzej K. , Noga Adam , Piotrowska Katarzyna , Zagórski Krzysztof 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Stemming from assumption that Gross Domestic Product is an index oversimplifying economic development and not reflecting socio-economic development, the paper presents conceptualization, operationalization and estimation of Balanced Development Index (BDI), concerning both economic and social development in Poland. Actual values of this index as well as its four composite components (middle-level indexes) are presented for 1999–2013. A statistical model allowing estimation of BDI values as well as short-term forecasts is proposed alongside with the concept of balanced development. Application of this model for 1999–2016 is presented.
Inferential Issues in Model-Based Small Area Estimation: Some New Developments
Authors: Rao J. N. K. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Small area estimation (SAE) has seen a rapid growth over the past 10 years or so. Earlier work is covered in the author’s book (Rao 2003). The main purpose of this paper is to highlight some new developments in model-based SAE since the publication of the author’s book. A large part of the new theory addressed practical issues associated with the model-based approach, and we present some of those methods for area level and unit level models. We also briefly mention some new work on synthetic estimation of area means or totals based on implicit models.