Abstract: The increase of technogenic and natural accidents,
accompanied by air pollution, for example, by combustion products,
leads to the necessity of respiratory protection. This work is devoted to the development of a calorimetric method
and a device which allows investigating quickly the kinetics of
carbon dioxide sorption by chemisorbents on the base of potassium
superoxide in order to assess the protective properties of respiratory
protective closed circuit apparatus. The features of the traditional approach for determining the
sorption properties in a thin layer of chemisorbent are described, as
well as methods and devices, which can be used for the sorption
kinetics study. The authors developed an approach (as opposed to the traditional
approach) based on the power measurement of internal heat sources
in the chemisorbent layer. The emergence of the heat sources is a
result of exothermic reaction of carbon dioxide sorption. This
approach eliminates the necessity of chemical analysis of samples
and can significantly reduce the time and material expenses during
chemisorbents testing. Error of determining the volume fraction of adsorbed carbon
dioxide by the developed method does not exceed 12%. Taking into
account the efficiency of the method, we consider that it is a good
alternative to traditional methods of chemical analysis under the
assessment of the protection sorbents quality.
Abstract: Direct Torque Control (DTC) is an AC drive control
method especially designed to provide fast and robust responses. In
this paper a progressive algorithm for direct torque control of threephase
induction drive system supplied by photovoltaic arrays using
voltage source inverter to control motor torque and flux with
maximum power point tracking at different level of insolation is
presented. Experimental results of the new DTC method obtained by
an experimental rapid prototype system for drives are presented.
Simulation and experimental results confirm that the proposed system
gives quick, robust torque and speed responses at constant switching
frequencies.
Abstract: Globally, many women are still disadvantaged when it
comes to business opportunities. Entrepreneurship development
programs, specifically designed to assist women entrepreneurs, are
assisting in solving this problem to a certain extent. The purpose of
this study is to identify the factors that motivate females to start their
own business. Females, from three different groups (2013, 2014 and
2015), who were all enrolled in a short learning program specifically
designed for women in early start-up stage or intending to start a
business, were asked what motivated them to start a business. The
results indicated that, from all three groups, the majority of the
women wanted to start a business to be independent and have
freedom and to add towards a social goal. The results further
indicated that in general, women would enter into entrepreneurship
activity due to pull factors rather than push factors.
Abstract: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) has become a
key technology in the emerging concept of Internet of Things (IoT).
Naturally, business applications would require the deployment of
various RFID systems developed by different vendors that use
different data formats and structures. This heterogeneity poses a
challenge in developing real-life IoT systems with RFID, as
integration is becoming very complex and challenging. Semantic
integration is a key approach to deal with this challenge. To do so,
ontology for RFID systems need to be developed in order to
annotated semantically RFID systems, and hence, facilitate their
integration. Accordingly, in this paper, we propose ontology for
RFID systems. The proposed ontology can be used to semantically
enrich RFID systems, and hence, improve their usage and reasoning.
Abstract: Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are
formed mainly because of incomplete combustion of organic
materials during industrial, domestic activities or natural occurrence.
Their toxicity and contamination of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem
have been established. However, with limited validity index, previous
research has focused on PAHs isomer pair ratios of variable
physicochemical properties in source identification. The objective of
this investigation was to determine the empirical validity of Pearson
Correlation Coefficient (PCC) and Cluster Analysis (CA) in PAHs
source identification along soil samples of different land uses.
Therefore, 16 PAHs grouped, as Endocrine Disruption Substances
(EDSs) were determined in 10 sample stations in top and sub soils
seasonally. PAHs was determined the use of Varian 300 gas
chromatograph interfaced with flame ionization detector. Instruments
and reagents used are of standard and chromatographic grades
respectively. PCC and CA results showed that the classification of
PAHs along pyrolitic and petrogenic organics used in source
signature is about the predominance PAHs in environmental matrix.
Therefore, the distribution of PAHs in the studied stations revealed
the presence of trace quantities of the vast majority of the sixteen
PAHs, which may ultimately inhabit the actual source signature
authentication. Therefore, factors to be considered when evaluating
possible sources of PAHs could be; type and extent of bacterial
metabolism, transformation products/substrates, and environmental
factors such as salinity, pH, oxygen concentration, nutrients, light
intensity, temperature, co-substrates, and environmental medium are
hereby recommended as factors to be considered when evaluating
possible sources of PAHs.
Abstract: Novel wind-lens turbine designs can augment power
output. Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) is used
to form large and complex structures from a Carbon Fiber Reinforced
Polymer (CFRP) composite. Typically, wind-lens turbine structures
are fabricated in segments, and then bonded to form the final structure.
This paper introduces five new adhesive joints, divided into two
groups: one is constructed between dry carbon and CFRP fabrics, and
the other is constructed with two dry carbon fibers. All joints and
CFRP fabrics were made in our laboratory using VARTM
manufacturing techniques. Specimens were prepared for tensile testing
to measure joint performance. The results showed that the second
group of joints achieved a higher tensile strength than the first group.
On the other hand, the tensile fracture behavior of the two groups
showed the same pattern of crack originating near the joint ends
followed by crack propagation until fracture.
Abstract: Paper deals with the modeling and simulation of energy consumption and GHG production of two different modes of regional passenger transport – road and railway. These two transport modes use the same type of fuel – diesel. Modeling and simulation of the energy consumption in transport is often used due to calculation satisfactory accuracy and cost efficiency. Paper deals with the calculation based on EN standards and information collected from technical information from vehicle producers and characteristics of tracks. Calculation included maximal theoretical capacity of bus and train and real passenger’s measurement from operation. Final energy consumption and GHG production is calculated by using software simulation. In evaluation of the simulation is used system “well to wheel”.
Abstract: The importance of agribusiness development is
proved in accordance with the trends in the agricultural sector of
Georgia. Agribusiness environment and the consequences of the
agricultural reforms are evaluated. The factors hindering the
development of agribusiness are revealed and the ways for
overcoming these problems are suggested. SWOT analysis is done in
order to identify the needs of agribusiness. The needs of agribusiness
development in Georgia are evaluated by priorities: prevention of
diseases and reduction of the harm caused by these diseases,
accessibility of long-term agricultural loans with low interest rates,
improving qualification of farmers, the level of education and usage
of modern technologies, changes in legislation, accessibility to high
quality agricultural machinery, and the development of infrastructure.
Based on the outcomes of the research, agribusiness development
strategies in Georgia are suggested and appropriate priorities of
economic policy are determined. Conclusions are made and based on
these conclusions, some recommendations are suggested.
Abstract: In turbulent modern economy, the companies need to
properly manage their business processes. Well-defined and stable
business processes ensure security of crucial data and applications,
and provide a quality product or service to the end customer. On the
other side, constant changes on the market, new regulatory
provisions, and emerging new technologies require the need of
issuing prompt and effective changes of business process. In this
article, we explore the use of agile principles in working with
business process management (BPM) solutions. We deal with
difficulties in BPM development cycle, review the benefits of using
agility, and choose the basic agile principles that ensure the success
of a BPM project.
Abstract: Increasingly complex modern power systems require
stability, especially for transient and small disturbances. Transient
stability plays a major role in stability during fault and large
disturbance. This paper compares a power system stabilizer (PSS)
and static Var compensator (SVC) to improve damping oscillation
and enhance transient stability. The effectiveness of a PSS connected
to the exciter and/or governor in damping electromechanical
oscillations of isolated synchronous generator was tested. The SVC
device is a member of the shunt FACTS (flexible alternating current
transmission system) family, utilized in power transmission systems.
The designed model was tested with a multi-machine system
consisting of four machines six bus, using MATLAB/SIMULINK
software. The results obtained indicate that SVC solutions are better
than PSS.
Abstract: The aim of this study is to empirically investigate the
mediating impact of export performance (EP) between technological
advancement capabilities and business performance (BP) of
Malaysian manufacturing micro, small and medium sized enterprises
(MSME’s). Firm’s technological advancement resources are
hypothesized as a platform to enhance both exports and BP of
manufacturing MSMEs in Malaysia. This study is twofold, primary it
has investigated that technological advancement capabilities helps to
appreciates main performance measures noted in terms of EP and
Secondly, it investigates that how efficiently and effectively
technological advancement capabilities can contribute in overall
Malaysian MSME’s BP. Smart PLS-3 statistical software is used to
know the association between technological advancement
capabilities, MSME’s EP and BP. In this study, the data was
composed from Malaysian manufacturing MSME’s in east coast
industrial zones known as the manufacturing hub of MSMEs. Seven
hundred and fifty (750) questionnaires were distributed, but only 148
usable questionnaires are returned. The finding of this study indicated
that technological advancement capabilities helps to strengthen the
export in term of time and cost efficient and it plays a significant role
in appreciating their BP. This study is helpful for small and medium
enterprise owners who intend to expand their business overseas and
though smart technological advancement resources they can achieve
their business competitiveness and excellence both at local and
international markets.
Abstract: In a world characterized by greed and the lust for
power and its attendant trappings, abuse of legal power is nothing
new to most of us. Legal abuses of power abound in all fields of
human endeavour. Accounts of such abuses dominate the mass media
and for the average individual, no single day goes by without his
getting to hear about at least one such occurrence. This paper briefly
looks at the meaning of legal power, what legal abuse is all about, its
causes, and some of its manifestations in the society. Its
consequences will also be discussed and some suggestions for reform
will be made. In the course of the paper, references will be made to
various jurisdictions around the world.
Abstract: The growth in the demand of electrical energy is
leading to load on the Power system which increases the occurrence
of frequent oscillations in the system. The reason for the oscillations
is due to the lack of damping torque which is required to dominate
the disturbances of Power system. By using FACT devices, such as
Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) can control power flow,
reduce sub-synchronous resonances and increase transient stability.
Hence, UPFC is used to damp the oscillations occurred in Power
system. This research focuses on adapting the neuro fuzzy controller
for the UPFC design by connecting the infinite bus (SMIB - Single
machine Infinite Bus) to a linearized model of synchronous machine
(Heffron-Phillips) in the power system. This model gains the
capability to improve the transient stability and to damp the
oscillations of the system.
Abstract: Electronic mediums such as websites, feeds, blogs and
social media sites are on a daily basis influencing our decision
making, are improving our productivity and are shaping futures of
many consumers and service/product providers. This research
identifies that both customers and business providers heavily rely on
smart phone applications. Based on this, mobile applications
available on iTunes store were studied. It was identified that fruit and
vegetable related applications used by consumers can broadly be
categorized into purchase applications, diaries, tracking health
applications, trip farm location and cooking applications. On the
other hand, applications used by farmers can broadly be classified as:
weather tracking, pests / fertilizer applications and general social
media applications such as Facebook. To blur this farmer-consumer
application divide, our research utilizes Context Specific
eTransformation Framework and based on it identifies characteristic
future consumer-farmer applications will need to have so that the
current divide can be narrowed and consequently better farmerconsumer
supply chain link established.
Abstract: This paper presents the advantages of fuzzy control use in technological processes control. The paper presents a real application of the Linguistic Fuzzy-Logic Control, developed at the University of Ostrava for the control of physical models in the Intelligent Systems Laboratory. The paper presents an example of a sensitive non-linear model, such as a magnetic levitation model and obtained results which show how modern information technologies can help to solve actual technical problems. A special method based on the LFLC controller with partial components is presented in this paper followed by the method of automatic context change, which is very helpful to achieve more accurate control results. The main advantage of the used system is its robustness in changing conditions demonstrated by comparing with conventional PID controller. This technology and real models are also used as a background for problem-oriented teaching, realized at the department for master students and their collaborative as well as individual final projects.
Abstract: The UK is leading in online retail and mobile
adoption. However, there is a dearth of information relating to mobile
apparel retail, and developing an understanding about consumer
browsing and purchase behaviour in m-retail channel would provide
apparel marketers, mobile website and app developers with the
necessary understanding of consumers’ needs. Despite the rapid
growth of mobile retail businesses, no published study has examined
shopping behaviour on fashion mobile apps and websites. A mixed method approach helped to understand why fashion
consumers prefer websites on smartphones, when diverse mobile
apps are also available. The following research methods were
employed: survey, eye-tracking experiments, observation, and
interview with retrospective think aloud. The mobile gaze tracking
device by SensoMotoric Instruments was used to understand
frustrations in navigation and other issues facing consumers in
mobile channel. This method helped to validate and compliment
other traditional user-testing approaches in order to optimize user
experience and enhance the development of mobile retail channel.
The study involved eight participants - females aged 18 to 35 years
old, who are existing mobile shoppers. The participants used the
Topshop mobile app and website on a smart phone to complete a task
according to a specified scenario leading to a purchase. The
comparative study was based on: duration and time spent at different
stages of the shopping journey, number of steps involved and product
pages visited, search approaches used, layout and visual clues, as
well as consumer perceptions and expectations. The results from the data analysis show significant differences in
consumer behaviour when using a mobile app or website on a smart
phone. Moreover, two types of problems were identified, namely
technical issues and human errors. Having a mobile app does not
guarantee success in satisfying mobile fashion consumers. The
differences in the layout and visual clues seem to influence the
overall shopping experience on a smart phone. The layout of search
results on the website was different from the mobile app. Therefore,
participants, in most cases, behaved differently on different
platforms. The number of product pages visited on the mobile app
was triple the number visited on the website due to a limited visibility
of products in the search results. Although, the data on traffic trends
held by retailers to date, including retail sector breakdowns for visits
and views, data on device splits and duration, might seem a valuable
source of information, it cannot explain why consumers visit many
product pages, stay longer on the website or mobile app, or abandon
the basket. A comprehensive list of pros and cons was developed by
highlighting issues for website and mobile app, and recommendations
provided. The findings suggest that fashion retailers need to be aware of
actual consumers’ behaviour on the mobile channel and their expectations in order to offer a seamless shopping experience. Added
to which is the challenge of retaining existing and acquiring new
customers. There seem to be differences in the way fashion
consumers search and shop on mobile, which need to be explored in
further studies.
Abstract: Nowadays, the reflection on competence management
is the basic for new competitive strategies. It is considered as the core
of the problems of the global supply chain. It interact a variety of
actors: information, physical and activities flows, etc. Even though
competence management is seen as the key factor for any business
success, the existing approaches demonstrate the deficiencies and
limitations of the competence concept. This research has two
objectives: The first is to make a contribution by focusing on the
development of a competence approach, based on continuous
improvement. It allows the enterprise to spot key competencies,
mobilize them in order to serve its strategic objectives and to develop
future competencies. The second is to propose a method to evaluate
the Level of Collective Competence. The approach was confirmed
through an application carried out at an automotive company.
Abstract: Fresh water is one of the resources which is getting
depleted day by day. A wise method to address this issue is by the
application of renewable energy-sun irradiation and by means of
decentralized, cheap, energetically self-sufficient, robust and simple
to operate plants, distillates can be obtained from sea, river or even
sewage. Solar desalination is a technique used to desalinate water
using solar energy. The present work deals with the comprehensive
design and simulation of solar tracking system using LabVIEW,
temperature and mass flow rate control of the solar desalination plant
using LabVIEW and also analysis of single phase inverter circuit
with LC filters for solar pumping system in MATLAB. The main
objective of this work is to improve the performance of solar
desalination system using automatic tracking system, output control
using temperature and mass flow rate control system and also to
reduce the harmonic distortion in the solar pumping system by means
of LC filters. The simulation of single phase inverter was carried out
using MATLAB and the output waveforms were analyzed.
Simulations were performed for optimum output temperature control,
which in turn controls the mass flow rate of water in the thermal
collectors. Solar tracking system was accomplished using LABVIEW
and was tested successfully. The thermal collectors are tracked in
accordance with the sun’s irradiance levels, thereby increasing the
efficiency of the thermal collectors.
Abstract: Modelling of building processes of a multimodal
freight transportation support information system is discussed based
on modern CASE technologies. Functional efficiencies of ports in
the eastern part of the Black Sea are analyzed taking into account
their ecological, seasonal, resource usage parameters. By resources,
we mean capacities of berths, cranes, automotive transport, as well as
work crews and neighbouring airports. For the purpose of designing
database of computer support system for Managerial (Logistics)
function, using Object-Role Modeling (ORM) tool (NORMA–Natural ORM Architecture) is proposed, after which Entity
Relationship Model (ERM) is generated in automated process.
Software is developed based on Process-Oriented and Service-Oriented architecture, in Visual Studio.NET environment.
Abstract: In the last decade the emergence of new social needs
as an effect of the economic crisis has stimulated the flourishing of
business endeavours characterised by explicit social goals. Social
start-ups, social enterprises or Corporate Social Responsibility
operations carried out by traditional companies are quintessential
examples in this regard. This paper analyses these kinds of initiatives
in order to discover the main characteristics of social business models
and to provide insights to social entrepreneurs for developing or
improving their strategies. The research is conducted through the
integration of literature review and case study analysis and, thanks to
the recognition of the importance of both profits and social impacts
as the key success factors for a social business model, proposes a
framework for identifying indicators suitable for measuring the social
impacts generated.