bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear Convergence Algorithm: Structural Properties with Doubly Stochastic Quadratic Operators for Multi-Agent Systems
Authors: Abdulghafor Rawad , Turaev Sherzod , Zeki Akram , Abubaker Adamu 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
This paper proposes nonlinear operator of extreme doubly stochastic quadratic operator (EDSQO) for convergence algorithm aimed at solving consensus problem (CP) of discrete-time for multi-agent systems (MAS) on n-dimensional simplex. The first part undertakes systematic review of consensus problems. Convergence was generated via extreme doubly stochastic quadratic operators (EDSQOs) in the other part. However, this work was able to formulate convergence algorithms from doubly stochastic matrices, majorization theory, graph theory and stochastic analysis. We develop two algorithms: 1) the nonlinear algorithm of extreme doubly stochastic quadratic operator (NLAEDSQO) to generate all the convergent EDSQOs and 2) the nonlinear convergence algorithm (NLCA) of EDSQOs to investigate the optimal consensus for MAS. Experimental evaluation on convergent of EDSQOs yielded an optimal consensus for MAS. Comparative analysis with the convergence of EDSQOs and DeGroot model were carried out. The comparison was based on the complexity of operators, number of iterations to converge and the time required for convergences. This research proposed algorithm on convergence which is faster than the DeGroot linear model.
n-Valued Refined Neutrosophic Soft Sets and their Applications in Decision Making Problems and Medical Diagnosis
Authors: Alkhazaleh Shawkat , Hazaymeh Ayman A. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
In this work we use the concept of a ‘n’-valued refined neutrosophic soft sets and its properties to solve decision making problems, Also a similarity measure between two ‘n’-valued refined neutrosophic soft sets are proposed. A medical diagnosis (MD) method is established for ‘n’-valued refined neutrosophic soft set setting using similarity measures. Lastly a numerical example is given to demonstrate the possible application of similarity measures in medical diagnosis (MD).
An ARMA Type Pi-Sigma Artificial Neural Network for Nonlinear Time Series Forecasting
Authors: Akdeniz Esra , Egrioglu Erol , Bas Eren , Yolcu Ufuk 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Real-life time series have complex and non-linear structures. Artificial Neural Networks have been frequently used in the literature to analyze non-linear time series. High order artificial neural networks, in view of other artificial neural network types, are more adaptable to the data because of their expandable model order. In this paper, a new recurrent architecture for Pi-Sigma artificial neural networks is proposed. A learning algorithm based on particle swarm optimization is also used as a tool for the training of the proposed neural network. The proposed new high order artificial neural network is applied to three real life time series data and also a simulation study is performed for Istanbul Stock Exchange data set.
Learning Structures of Conceptual Models from Observed Dynamics Using Evolutionary Echo State Networks
Authors: Abdelbari Hassan , Shafi Kamran 
Published: November 2017

AbstractConceptual or explanatory models are a key element in the process of complex system modelling. They not only provide an intuitive way for modellers to comprehend and scope the complex phenomena under investigation through an abstract representation but also pave the way for the later development of detailed and higher-resolution simulation models. An evolutionary echo state network-based method for supporting the development of such models, which can help to expedite the generation of alternative models for explaining the underlying phenomena and potentially reduce the manual effort required, is proposed. It relies on a customised echo state neural network for learning sparse conceptual model representations from the observed data. In this paper, three evolutionary algorithms, a genetic algorithm, differential evolution and particle swarm optimisation are applied to optimize the network design in order to improve model learning. The proposed methodology is tested on four examples of problems that represent complex system models in the economic, ecological and physical domains. The empirical analysis shows that the proposed technique can learn models which are both sparse and effective for generating the output that matches the observed behaviour.
Original Research. Diagnosis of the Aortic Coarctation in the Neonatal Period — a Critical Condition in the Emergency Room
Authors: Rusu Simina-Elena , Toma Daniela , Blesneac Cristina , Matei Laura , Ghiragosian Claudiu , Togănel Rodica 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Background: Critical coarctation of the aorta is the most common congenital heart disease with ductal-dependent systemic circulation. In severe forms, this disease represents a critical condition, which can become life-threatening. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of different echocardiographic parameters in the prediction of aortic coarctation in newborns. Material and method: This is a retrospective study performed by reviewing echocardiographic images of both pre-term and full-term newborns presented with aortic coarctation to the emergency room of a clinic of pediatric cardiology. Based on echocardiographic measurements, both the common carotid artery-subclavian artery index (CSAi) and the aortic isthmus-descending aorta index (I/D) were calculated. Results: Fifty-two newborns presented in acute settings with aortic coarctation and were included in the study, divided into: subgroup 1 (n = 26) - ductal-dependent aortic coarctation; subgroup 2 (n = 2) - non-ductaldependent aortic coarctation; and subgroup 3 (n = 24) - unconfirmed aortic coarctation. ROC analysis identified a cutoff value of 1.37 for the CSAi index and a cutoff value of 0.46 for the I/D index as being associated with the highest predictive power for the diagnosis of aortic coarctation. Conclusions: The CSAi and I/D indices are simple and accessible echocardiographic parameters that can provide supplemental information for the pediatric cardiologist in acute cases of newborns with suspicion of aortic coarctation. These new indices can contribute to the decision-making process in case of pre-term and full-term newborns with suspicion of coarctation of the aorta, independent of the presence of persistent ductus arteriosus.
Detecting Confounding in Multivariate Linear Models via Spectral Analysis
Authors: Janzing Dominik , Schölkopf Bernhard 
Published: November 2017

AbstractWe study a model where one target variableY$Y$is correlated with a vectorX:=(X1,…,Xd)$\textbf{X}:=(X_1,\dots,X_d)$of predictor variables being potential causes ofY$Y$. We describe a method that infers to what extent the statistical dependences betweenX$\textbf{X}$andY$Y$are due to the influence ofX$\textbf{X}$onY$Y$and to what extent due to a hidden common cause (confounder) ofX$\textbf{X}$andY$Y$. The method relies on concentration of measure results for large dimensionsd$d$and an independence assumption stating that, in the absence of confounding, the vector of regression coefficients describing the influence of eachX$\textbf{X}$onY$Y$typically has ‘generic orientation’ relative to the eigenspaces of the covariance matrix ofX$\textbf{X}$. For the special case of a scalar confounder we show that confounding typically spoils this generic orientation in a characteristic way that can be used to quantitatively estimate the amount of confounding (subject to our idealized model assumptions).
Interfacial characteristics of hybrid nanocomposite under thermomechanical loading
Authors: Choyal Vijay , Kundalwal Shailesh I. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractIn this work, an improved shear lag model was developed to investigate the interfacial characteristics of three-phase hybrid nanocomposite which is reinforced with microscale fibers augmented with carbon nanotubes on their circumferential surfaces. The shear lag model accounts for (i) radial and axial deformations of different transversely isotropic constituents, (ii) thermomechanical loads on the representative volume element (RVE), and (iii) staggering effect of adjacent RVEs. The results from the current newly developed shear lag model are validated with the finite element simulations and found to be in good agreement. This study reveals that the reduction in the maximum value of the axial stress in the fiber and the interfacial shear stress along its length become more pronounced in the presence of applied thermomechanical loads on the staggered RVEs. The existence of shear tractions along the RVE length plays a significant role in the interfacial characteristics and cannot be ignored.
A Novel Architecture of N × N Bidirectional Reconfigurable Multiwavelength Optical Cross Connect
Authors: Singh Manpreet 
Published: November 2017

AbstractA novel architecture of N×N bidirectional-reconfigurable multiwavelength optical cross connect (B-RMOXC) based on tunable Fiber Bragg grating and optical circulator is proposed. B-RMOXC network is one of crucial network element for wavelength routing in dense wavelength division multiplexing system. This paper presents a high speed, power compensated bidirectional optical cross connect and verified the performance of bidirectionality with 0.8-nm channel spacing having bit rate of 10 Gbps at different transmission distances. Optical signal-to-noise ratio of 36.62 dB and 35.55 dB is achieved with acceptable Quality factor of 6.26 and 6.99 respectively for upstream and downstream at 60 km having input transmission power of −12 dBm. It is found that the data can be communicated bidirectionally to a distance of 60 km in the presence of fiber nonlinearities without optical amplifier.
Analysis of aeronautical information potential incompatibility – case study
Authors: Dudek Ewa , Kozłowski Michał 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
This article is a continuation of the authors’ study on the ways to ensure the quality and safety of aeronautical data and information. In its content the Integrated Aeronautical Information Package was presented and its fundamental part AIP Poland was described. In addition, the docking guidance system A-VDGS, being an example of implementation of telematics system in air transport, was discussed as well as its requirements and schematic representation were attached. In the following part of the publication an analysis of AIP Poland in terms of the mentioned aircrafts’ docking systems was performed and a discrepancy between the requirements published in ICAO Annex 14 and published information for aerodrome EPWA was noticed. The indicated case of published incompatibility confirms the necessity to develop and implement a complex method of aeronautical data and information quality assurance at all stages of aeronautical data and information chain, which will be the subject of authors’ further study.
Security management of water supply
Authors: Tchórzewska-Cieślak Barbara 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
The main aim of this work is to present operational problems concerning the safety of the water supply and the procedures for risk management systems functioning public water supply (CWSS) and including methods of hazard identification and risk assessment. Developed a problem analysis and risk assessment, including procedures called. WSP, which is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a tool for comprehensive security management of water supply from source to consumer. Water safety plan is a key element of the strategy for prevention of adverse events in CWSS.
Investigating the trends of average costs of corrective maintenance of public transport vehicles
Authors: Andrzejczak Karol , Selech Jarosław 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
This paper presents the results of the investigations of the trends of average costs incurred by manufacturers of public transport vehicles following the elimination of unplanned malfunctions under warranty. The developed research methodology utilizes a method of analysis of variance for validation of the following two hypotheses. The first hypothesis relates to the examination of the significance of differences between average costs of the elimination of a malfunction and the other relates to the examination of the significance of differences in the average number of malfunctions per single vehicle in the highlighted periods of operation. The hypotheses were conducted based on the operation data relating to the malfunctions of a fleet of trams used by a city transport operator.
Effect of sublethal doses of abamectin on demographic traits of tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta (Meyrick, 1917) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Zibaee Idin , Esmaeily Mojtaba 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta is a serious pest of tomato crops worldwide. In this study the effect of sublethal concentrations of abamectin (at 10 and 30% lethal concentrations, LC10 and LC30) was investigated on developmental and reproduction parameters of the tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta. Lethal concentrations were estimated by leaf dip bioassay on the fourth instar larvae of the T. absoluta that, LC50, LC30 and LC10 were 0.23, 0.15 and 0.12 mg · l−1, respectively. The sublethal concentrations led to significant decreases in adult emergence, the percentage of pupation of the parent generation, fecundity and adult longevity compared to the control. Sublethal concentrations significantly decreased the net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and gross reproduction rate (GRR). There was a significant decrease in the time to egg developmental and doubling time (DT) of T. absoluta. However, sublethal concentrations of abamectin had no significant effects on the percentage of pupation, larva, prepupa and pupa developmental periods, hatchability and sex ratio of offspring. The results of this study indicated that sublethal concentrations of abamectin could influence some biological parameters of T. absoluta. The results could also be helpful for making better management decisions for controlling the tomato leafminer.
Effects of wheat-canola intercropping on Phelipanche aegyptiaca parasitism
Authors: Razavifar Zeynab , Karimmojeni Hassan , Sini Fatemeh Ghorbani 
Published: November 2017

AbstractParasitic weeds especiallyPhelipanche aegyptiacadecrease severely the production of canola. This study evaluated the effect of intercropping different wheat genotypes with canola onPhelipanche aegyptiacagrowth. Ten wild wheat genotypes with different ploidy levels including TRI11712, TRI19322, TRI18664, TRI19652, TRI565, TRI15593, TRI12911, TRI11554, TRI17606, TRI7259P and seven cultivated bread wheats, namely: Falat, Chamran, Alamut, Baiat, Kavir, Sepahan, Alvand in addition to a canola cultivar called Zarfam were studied. The results revealed that intercropping of canola with wheat could significantly reduce broomrape growth depending on the type of wheat genotype. A significant genetic variation of allelopathic activity in wheat was observed, indicating the contribution of multiple genes conferring the allelopathic trait. TRI565 and TRI12911, TRI15593, TRI18664, TRI19652, TRI17606, TRI19322, and TRI7259 genotypes showed strong inhibitory effects and can be considered as potential allelopathic genotypes to suppress broomrape. The inhibitory potential of wild wheat genotypes was stronger than cultivated wheat genotypes. Alamut, Baiat, Alvand, Sepahan, and TRI11712 possessed strong stimulatory effects on broomrape germination. Such genotypes may be valuable as trap crops for depleting the Egyptian broomrape seed bank.
Field evaluation of centre pivot sprinkler irrigation system in the North-East of Iran
Authors: Abedinpour Meysam 
Published: November 2017

Abstract A field evaluation of the technical performance of centre pivot sprinkler irrigation system was carried out during the maize crop growing season and when operating with different working speeds: S1 - 40%, S2 - 60% and S3 - 80%. For this goal, four uniformity measurements are to be considered in the evaluation; coefficient of uniformity (CU), distribution uniformity (DU), potential efficiency of low quarter application (PELQ) and actual efficiency of low quarter application (AELQ). The first step of evaluation of the sprinkler irrigation system is to compare the measured uniformity values with the standard values, DU ≥ 75%, CU ≥ 85%, AELQ and PELQ ≥ 90%. Effect of variation of speed produced CU values of 80.3, 82.7 and 86% for S1, S2, and S3 speed, respectively. Furthermore, DU standard value was obtained at S3 speed of 82%. Moreover, AELQ and PELQ were below the acceptable standard level of 90% for all speeds. Non-uniform water application leads to over or under irrigation in various parts of the field which can result in wasted water and energy. Therefore, regular evaluation of the irrigation equipments is needed to efficiently and effectively manage irrigation.
Influence of a season on hourly and daily variations in water demand patterns in a rural water supply line – case study
Authors: Bergel Tomasz , Szeląg Bartosz , Woyciechowska Olga 
Published: November 2017

Abstract This article presents the results of a study on hourly and daily variations in water demand patterns, depending on a season. The study was conducted in the years 2014-2015 on a selected rural water supply line. The analysis was based on values of hourly water demand as measured by a water meter coupled with a recording device. The research showed that both the volume and fluctuations in daily water demand were higher in the spring and the summer, versus the autumn and the winter. This was most probably caused by water consumption for additional purposes, specific for rural areas. Individual water demand was the highest in the summer, and the lowest in the winter. Two peaks for hourly water demand were determined for the analyzed seasons. The morning peak always occurred at 7 a.m. on working days, while on days off work it fell at 9 a.m. or 10 a.m., depending on the season. The evening peak always fell at 8 p.m., regardless of a season or a day of a week. On working days, the evening peak was always higher than the morning one, while on days off work the morning peak was higher than the evening one in the autumn and in the winter, and both peaks were the same in the spring and in the summer.
Acute toxicity of experimental fertilizers made of blood meal, spent coffee ground and biomass ash
Authors: Ciesielczuk Tomasz , Rosik-Dulewska Czesława , Poluszyńska Joanna , Sławińska Irena 
Published: November 2017

Abstract The study presents the results of research on the acute toxicity of a fertilizer formulas made of spent coffee ground (SCG) with addition of ash from low-temperature combustion of biomass or ash with an admixture of magnesium sulphate and blood meal. The experimental fertilizer formulas included also rape oil used as a plasticizer for controlling the nutrients release from the fertiliser. Mustard (Sinapis alba L.), oats (Avena sativa sp. L.), cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) and cress (Lepidium sativum L.) were used as test plants species in the experiment. The toxicity tests were performed using a standard procedure of 72 h with the use of Phytotoxkit microbiotest and fertilizer application of 2.5; 5 and 10% (v/v). The obtained results indicated an increase of acute toxicity for all tested plant species, proportionally to the applied doses of the fertilizer. During the 72 h period, the strongest inhibition of seedling growth was recorded in samples consisting of 10% of the tested fertilizers, particularly when they showed considerable level of salinity or low pH values. From the tested plant species, cress (Lepidium sativum L.) turned out to be the most sensitive to the applied fertilizers, the least was cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) for which only a small inhibition of root system growth was observed. The inhibited growth of roots could be attributed to a reduced oxygen access and excessive salinity of the substratum caused by the applied additives.
German support systems for onshore wind farms in the context of Polish acts limiting wind energy development
Authors: Dawid Leszek 
Published: November 2017

Abstract European energy system is undergoing a deep transition to low-emission energy sources, mainly wind farms. This transition is caused mostly by energy politics of European Union (EU) and its goals in the topic of renewable energy. European wind energy is dominated by Germany that produces half of total wind energy in EU. The aim of this article is to present support systems for wind farms existing in Germany in the context of introducing in Poland the Act of 20 May 2016 on Wind Energy Investments limiting onshore wind farms localization and Act of 22 June 2016 introducing changes to the Act on Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and some other acts. It is postulated to make amendments of acts regulating RES while considering German solutions.
An effect of liming on magnesium content in meadow vegetation and leachate water
Authors: Kacorzyk Piotr A. , Kasperczyk Mirosław 
Published: November 2017

Abstract The aim of the study was to evaluate an effect of liming on chemical properties of the soil, magnesium content in the meadow vegetation and leachate water moving through the soil profile. The study was conducted in the growing seasons in the years 2012-2014. The study included three plots in two series: with lime and without lime. The plant material was subjected to dry digestion and ash was dissolved in HNO3 (1:3). The soil was mineralized in a muffle furnace and the ashes were dissolved in a mixture of HNO3 and HClO4 (3:1 v/v). In the obtained samples and in leaching water, estimated the content of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and sodium by induction plasma emission spectrophotometer. In the soil content of assimilable phosphorus and potassium was determined by the Egner-Riehm method. The content of assimilable magnesium was determined by the Schachtschabel method and the pH of the soil by potentiometric method in water and in mol KC1·dm-3. Liming positively affected on soil pH and magnesium content in plants increasing its amount of about 15- 21% of dry matter with respect to not limed plots. In turn, lime fertilization negatively affected the content of magnesium in leachate water and the load eluted per unit area. Magnesium content in leachate water and the amount of loads eluted from limed plots were lower on average by 16-23% with respect to not limed plots.