bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing the Distribution and Trends of Research in Double Top-University Construction in China: A Knowledge Mapping Analysis of CSSCI Literature
Authors: Xu Hui , Luo Zhimin , Liu Kang , Zhang Qingyue , Abbas Safdar
Published: March 2023

This research study, titled "Analysis of Double Top-University Construction in Domestic Academia: A CSSCI Literature Review (2016-2019) Using CiteSpace," provides an analysis of relevant literature on Double Top-University construction in China. The study utilizes the CiteSpace visual tool to examine the distribution characteristics of Double Top-University Construction in China. It is found that The authors, institutions, journals, and focus themes related to Double Top-University construction were remain the key component of research in recent years. Challenges and potential problems exist in the development of China's "double first class" initiative, necessitating greater scholarly attention. Specifically, efforts are required to strengthen the connection between academic research and policy implementation, conduct further research on international experiences and emerging issues, and improve interdisciplinary collaboration among related fields. Given the interdisciplinary nature and complexity of this initiative, effective coordination and integration across disciplines are essential to meet long-term strategic objectives. The findings of the analysis provide valuable insights that can guide and enrich future investigations towards the construction of Double Top-Universities.
Type 2 diabetes - factors of occurrence and its complications
Authors: Żuchnik Magda , Rybkowska Agnieszka , Szczuraszek Paulina , Szczuraszek Hugo , Bętkowska Paulina , Radulski Jakub , Tomkiewicz Michał , Paluch Michał , Licak Gabriela , Olko Paweł
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus is a collective term for heterogeneous metabolic disorders, the main factor of which is chronic hyperglycemia resulting from a defect in insulin secretion or action. It affects the damage, dysfunction and performance of various organs.

The aim of the study

The purpose of this article is to discuss type 2 diabetes mellitus. Presentation of the mechanisms involved in it and the complications it causes in the various organs.

Material and methods

This review was based on available data collected in the PubMed data base. The research was done by looking through keywords such as: ,,type 2 diabetes”, ,,diabetic cardiomyopathy”, ,,diabetic nephropathy”, ,,diabetic neuropathy”, ,,diabetic foot”, ,,diabetic retinopathy”, ,, risk factors for type 2 diabetes”.

 

Conclusions

Many studies have shown that the presence of type 2 diabetes adversely affects the body. Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of organ complications, which significantly reduces the quality and shortens the life of patients. For that reason, care should be taken to reduce the incidence rate of this type of diabetes and to prevent and detect its complications early. Therefore, new initiatives and research should be undertaken to broadly understand the risk factors and mechanisms of developing type 2 diabetes complications.
Treatment of hyperhidrosis and the role of Botulinum Toxin Type A in therapy - a literature review
Authors: Szczuraszek Hugo , Szczuraszek Paulina , Sałata Piotr , Olko Paweł , Paluch Michał , Licak Gabriela , Żuchnik Magda , Bętkowska Paulina , Radulski Jakub , Rybkowska Agnieszka
Published: March 2023

Introduction:
Sweat secretion is a physiological process controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and it operates independently of our will. Primary hyperhidrosis is a disease characterized by excessive sweating, which is thought to result from localized hyperstimulation of sweat glands by cholinergic sympathetic nerve fibers. It can be associated with significant occupational, physical and emotional impairment, as well as significant difficulties in social situations and personal relationships. Available therapies are limited by their short-term efficacy and, in some cases, significant side effects that can expose patients to potentially serious complications. One treatment for primary hyperhidrosis is chemodenervation of the sweat glands using botulinum toxin type A.
Objective:
To review the current literature and recent reports on hyperhidrosis treatment therapies. To discuss the mechanism of action and the role of botulinum toxin in treatment, as well as the potential risks associated with undertaking treatment.
Materials and method:
Literature review of PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct
Conclusions:
Intradermal injection of botulinum toxin A is an effective and safe therapy for severe axillary, palmar, forehead, neck and foot hyperhidrosis. Current knowledge does not indicate that this therapy is associated with dangerous complications. Unfortunately, it is not a method that permanently solves the problem of sufferers.
Mamíferos silvestres y alimentación en Sierra de Huautla
Authors: Valle Marquina Raúl , García Flores Alejandro
Published: March 2023

Desde su origen, la humanidad ha generado múltiples interacciones con los animales silvestres de su entorno. Una de las relaciones más antiguas y representativas es el consumo de fauna silvestre, práctica cultural vigente en diferentes partes del mundo.
Bacteriófagos como biocontrol de enfermedades bacterianas en mamíferos
Authors: Moreno-Figueroa Luis Daniel , Cab-Sulub Leticia
Published: March 2023

Los mamíferos silvestres y otros grupos taxonómicos de importancia económica como por ejemplo ganado de engorda, aves de corral, peces y crustáceos, son propensos a desarrollar enfermedades de origen bacteriano que pueden diseminarse rápidamente.
Vecinas incomprendidas: las tuzas de México
Authors: Sosa Zarah , Villegas Gricell
Published: March 2023

Si en alguna caminata en la naturaleza, o en un campo de cultivo, o hasta en tu propio jardín tropezaste con un montículo de tierra, es muy probable que hayas encontrado la madriguera de una tuza; un roedor que vive bajo el suelo y se alimenta de raíces.
Las ventajas de vivir en grupo
Authors: Sánchez-Pinzón Khiavett , Contreras-Moreno Fernando , Jesús-Espinosa Daniel
Published: March 2023

Algunas investigaciones sugieren que el jaguar evolucionó para comer pecaríes, especie que forma grupos llamados piaras, la cual no es una presa fácil ni para este gran felino. Sin embargo, esta fortaleza ante sus depredadores es su gran debilidad ante el humano.
Quasi-steady-state air waveguide
Authors: Goffin A. , Tartaro A. , Milchberg H. M.
Published: March 2023

We report a quasi-continuously operating air waveguide, generated by
high-repetition-rate patterned filamentation of femtosecond laser
pulses. For repetition rates higher than the air thermal relaxation
rate, we demonstrate near-continuous guiding of a CW probe beam with
significantly improved efficiency.
Mathematical Reflections on Locality
Authors: Guo Li , Paycha Sylvie , Zhang Bin
Published: March 2023

Starting from the principle of locality in quantum field theory, which states that an object is influenced directly only by its immediate surroundings, we review some features of the notion of locality arising in physics and mathematics. We encode these in locality relations, given by symmetric binary relations, and locality morphisms, namely maps that factorise on products of pairs in the graph of such locality relations. This factorisation is a key property in the context of renormalisation, as illustrated on the factorisation of an exponential sum on convex cones, discussed at the end of the paper. The subject of locality is so vast and the issues it raises are so subtle, that this brief and modest presentation can only offer a small glimpse into this fascinating topic.
Organisationale Ambidextrie als Erfolgsfaktor für KI-basierte Innovationen in der Produktion: Das Audi Production Lab
Authors: Sagodi André
Published: March 2023

Künstliche Intelligenz bietet immenses Wertpotenzial für Unternehmen, wie beispielsweise für Produzenten in der Automobilindustrie. Um von den neuen Technologien zu profitieren, müssen diese Automobilproduzenten innovative Konzepte für ihren individuellen Unternehmenskontext entwickeln und erproben, ohne dabei den produktiven Betrieb zu beeinträchtigen. Die Fähigkeit eines Unternehmens gleichzeitig innovativ und effizient zu sein, wird als Ambidextrie bezeichnet. Insbesondere bei heutigen Innovationen basierend auf Künstlicher Intelligenz ergeben sich neuartige Fragestellungen, die exploriert und im Innovations- und Technologiemanagement berücksichtigt werden müssen.

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird das Audi Production Lab (P‑Lab) als Praxisbeispiel für erfolgreich praktizierte organisationale Ambidextrie vorgestellt. Das P‑Lab bildet als eigenständige Organisationseinheit das Bindeglied zwischen Technologieexploration und Technologieverwertung in der Audi Produktion. Basierend auf einem praktischen Erfahrungsbericht wird in diesem Beitrag herausgearbeitet, welche neuen Fragestellungen und Herausforderungen Künstliche Intelligenz in das Ideen- und Innovationsmanagement induziert und wie diese bewältigt werden können. Der Schwerpunkt liegt dabei auf (1) der Identifikation von KI-geeigneten Fragestellungen, (2) der Entwicklung von KI-Proof-of-Concepts und (3) der Implementierung von KI-Lösungen in einen Produktivbetrieb.

Mit den Ergebnissen richtet sich dieser Beitrag an Technologie- und Innovationsmanager_innen, IT-Strateg_innen und Organisationsentwickler_innen, die Künstliche Intelligenz für ihr Unternehmen erschließen möchten. Die Ergebnisse liefern Einblicke in die industrielle Praxis und unterstreichen die Relevanz organisationaler Ambidextrie als zentraler Erfolgsfaktor für Innovationen in der Produktion.
A cross-sectional survey for the assessment of biosecurity measures in small-scale duck farms in Qalyoubia, Egypt: Comprehensive evaluation and procedural recommendations
Authors: Adel Amany , El-Sayed Hemat S. , Samir Abdelhafez , Abdelaty May F. , Hamed Engy A.
Published: March 2023

Background and Aim: Biosecurity implementation is fundamental to combating diseases and antibiotic resistance. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the correlation between the implementation of biosecurity measures in small-scale duck farms and the incidence of infectious diseases that threaten the duck industry.

Materials and Methods: Twenty small-scale duck farms of different breeds and production stages were collected as representative samples, focused on two districts in the Qalyoubia governorate, which possesses high-density small-scale farms. A 30-point structured questionnaire was designed to assess the level of biosecurity measures implemented in the sampled farms. These farms were examined for bacterial infection by cultivation, typing, and antibiotic sensitivity tests, in addition to molecular techniques for detecting suspected viral diseases.

Results: The results showed that the farms had high or low levels of biosecurity; only 25% possessed high-level biosecurity. Bacteria, including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, and Pasteurella, were isolated from all sampled farms. High rates of antimicrobial resistance-reaching up to 100% were observed against some drugs. However, viral causative agents, including HPAI-H5N8, duck viral hepatitis, and goose parvovirus, were isolated from only five farms.

Conclusion: The lack of commitment to biosecurity implementation, particularly personal hygiene, was observed in most sampled farms. Increasing the level of biosecurity reduced the incidence of mixed infections.

Keywords: antibiotic resistance, bacterial agents, biosecurity, co-infections, small-scale duck farms, viral diseases.
Strategic Analysis of Mediterranean Island Destinations: The Case of Corfu
Authors: KONTOGEORGIS Georgios , LIVAS Christos , KARALI Nansy
Published: March 2023

Apart from having a long tourism tradition, due to its geographic location and predominantly pleasant climatic conditions, Greece has primarily relied on tourism to recover from its prolonged economic hardships. Consequently, the present study aims at conducting a strategic analysis of Corfu, an important tourist destination located in the Ionian Sea, with the purpose of suggesting targeted interventions regarding the island’s tourism product and providing directions for sustainable tourism development. Secondary data analysis and results from a survey of 334 tourists indicated several strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats concerning Corfu’s tourism sector. This information reveals a number of ways to improve Corfu’s overall tourism product and develop a sustainable strategy for the Corfiot tourism industry. In view of rising environmental and socioeconomic challenges, a comprehensive tourism strategy ought to simultaneously enhance Corfu’s competitive position, improve residents’ welfare and safeguard the island’s scarce natural resources.
Modeling for policy and technology assessment: Challenges from computerbased simulations and artificial intelligence
Authors: Kaminski Andreas , Gramelsberger Gabriele , Scheer Dirk
Published: March 2023

Modeling for policy has become an integral part of policy making and technology assessment. This became particularly evident to the general public when, during the COVID-19 pandemic, forecasts of infection dynamics based on computer simulations were used to evaluate and justify policy containment measures. Computer models are also playing an increasing role in technology assessment (TA). Computer simulations are used to explore possible futures related to specific technologies, for example, in the area of energy systems analysis. Artificial intelligence (AI) models are also becoming increasingly important. The results is a mix of methods where computer simulations and machine learning converge, posing particular challenges and opening up new research questions. This Special topic brings together case studies from different fields to explore the current state of computational models in general and AI methods in particular for policy and TA.
Modeling for nano risk assessment and management: The development of integrated governance tools and the potential role of technology assessment
Authors: Bauer Anja , Fuchs Daniela
Published: March 2023

In nano risk governance, we observe a trend toward coupling and integrating a variety of computational models into integrated risk governance tools. This article discusses the development and design of such integrated tools as ‘nano risk governance imaginaries in the making.’ Using an illustrative example, the SUNDS tool, we show how the tool manifests conceptual shifts from risk to innovation governance, a technocratic evidence culture based on the quantification of risks, and an envisioned application in industrial innovation management. This conceptualization runs the risk of narrowing the view of nano risks and cementing the widely lamented democratic deficit in risk governance. We therefore conclude that the development and application of integrated governance tools are highly relevant for technology assessment (TA) and TA should actively engage in their development processes.
Effect of Geogrid Reinforcement on Shear Strength Characteristics of a Rubber-Sand Mixture under Undrained Triaxial Test
Authors:   National Institute of Technology Patna, (Bihar), India-800005, Ansari Md Asfaque , Roy Lal Bahadur
Published: March 2023

Utilization of rubber-sand mixtures as construction materials, such as lightweight filling materials, embankment construction, seismic isolation materials, … etc., provides significant advantages, as scrap tires induce environmental issues. In this study, unconsolidated undrained triaxial tests were performed to examine the shear-strength characteristics of geogrid-reinforced sand-rubber mixtures. The rubber percent (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% and 60%), the confining pressure of the cell (19.6 kPa, 49 kPa and 98 kPa) and the number of geogrid reinforcements (1 to 4) were varied for investigating the impact of these parameters. The relative density of sand remained constant (80%) during the test. The test results were evaluated in terms of the stress-strain characteristics of rubber-sand mixtures. The test findings demonstrated that by increasing the confining pressure of the cell, the same rubber-sand mixtures with the same relative density and rubber content take more loads. The peak stress of unreinforced rubber-sand mixtures increased with the increasing proportion of rubber content up to 30%, beyond which it decreased as rubber content increased. Maximum peak stress and axial strain have been achieved with 50% of the rubber content and four layers of geogrid reinforcement. The brittleness index of the rubber-sand mixture reduces when geogrid reinforcement is added. The minimum brittleness was found to be 0.042 at 50% rubber content with three layers of geogrid reinforcement. KEYWORDS: Geogrid, Shear strength, Triaxial test, Rubber-sand mixture, Soil reinforcement.
Production of Thermal and Sound Insulators from Used Automobile Tires' Fiber
Authors:   Jordan University of Science and Technology, Kandah Munther , Al-Otoom Awni
Published: March 2023

One of the problematic issues with the recycling of used automobile tires is the production of unwanted fiber waste. This waste is considered as a major burden and as an industrial waste which constitutes an extra cost to industries. In this project, thermal and noise insulators were produced from the fiber waste of automobiles. The insulation materials were used in insulating different types of rooms to study their thermal and noise insulation effectiveness (Caravan rooms and brick rooms). Results were also compared to identical rooms without insulation. Results showed that the thermal properties of the obtained sheets are similar to those used currently in construction. The differences between the insulated rooms and the non-insulated rooms were about 2⸰C and 1-4 dBA for thermal and sound level, respectively, for both construction models during day and night all over the year period. KEYWORDS: Automobile tires, Fiber, Thermal insulation, Sound insulation.
Investigation of Price Escalation and Its Mitigation Mechanisms on Selected Building Construction Projects of Jimma University
Authors:   Jimma Institute of Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia, Mekonen Hamelmal , Legesse Alemu Mosisa , Ameya Frikot Mulatu
Published: March 2023

Fee escalation in construction refers to a boom in the price of an item inside the preliminary agreement or the bottom cost of an undertaking. racking production mission fees must be an ongoing procedure that must always be carried out on all projects, because the reasons for which the price will increase vary from project to project and due to the construction segment. The motive of this observation was to assess fee escalation, escalation factors and mitigation mechanisms in deciding on construction initiatives. From February 1 to 30, 2020, a questionnaire was administered to twelve workers and interviews with seven key informants were conducted for an in-depth look at four selected Jimma University construction projects, which were project A to project D. Relative importance index values were generated and ranked for the elements affecting fee escalation to see their relative significance. It was found that there has been a moderate degree of charge increase within the initiatives studied, from 12% to 21%. The mitigation modalities observed with the aid of the projects, particularly inserting escalation clauses in contractual agreements, making changes requiring funding and increasing time limits, seem to be inadequate, as they do not provide a foundation for choices and remedy of disputes instead of mitigating the escalation of tasks starting from 3.21% to 12%. KEYWORDS: Escalation, Mitigation, Price, Construction projects.
Experimental and Numerical Study of the Behavior of RC Shear Wall with Opening Using Concealed Stiffeners
Authors:   HSBBPVT’s College of Engineering, Kashti, India, Mahadik Sanjivan , Bhagat S.R. , Gunaware Pravin D. , N. Patil Vijay
Published: March 2023

A shear wall becomes weak when an opening is provided in it. It is important to provide some arrangement in the shear wall having an opening for recovering strength loss due to the opening. It may be recovered by providing some steel profiles around the opening or at weaker sections in the shear wall having an opening. At first, the identification of weaker sections in the shear wall having an opening is important and then, the wall can be made stronger as the shear wall without an opening by strengthening weaker sections. In the present study, the performance of a shear wall having an opening subjected to horizontal cyclic loading along the plane of the shear wall in the presence of concealed stiffeners is investigated. The reduced models of shear walls with openings were tested under axial and lateral load conditions. Load-carrying capacity, deformation behavior and strain behavior of shear walls were studied with experiments and the validation of the results was made with general-purpose finite element software ANSYS. Significant improvements were observed in strength, deformation and strain behavior of a shear wall having a central opening using concealed reinforced concrete (RC) stiffeners and steel tube stiffeners. KEYWORDS: Shear wall, Strength, Stiffness, Strain, Openings, Stiffeners.
Design of Laterally Loaded Single Piles by Using P-Y Curves and the Cone Penetration Test (CPT) in Sandy Soils
Authors:   University of Blida1, Algeria, Bouafia Ali
Published: March 2023

The aim of this paper is to present a simple method of construction of the load-transfer P-Y curves for the design of laterally loaded piles in sand based on the cone penetration test (CPT). The proposed method was developed on the basis of interpretation of 5 field tests on single instrumented piles conducted in sandy sites in France and shows a simple relationship linking the P-Y curve parameters, the cone penetration resistance and the lateral pile/soil stiffness ratio. The validation process was carried out by direct comparison of the predicted load-deflection curves based on the proposed method to those obtained from a worldwide case history of field lateral loading tests on piles and showed a very good quality of the prediction using the proposed method. KEYWORDS: Piles, Lateral load, Sand, Full-scale loading, P-Y curves, CPT test.
Structural Performance of Cement-treated Base Layer by Incorporating Reclaimed Asphalt Material and Plastic Waste
Authors:   Roy Engineering College, Durgapur, India, Banerji Arijit Kumar , Topdar Pijush , Datta Aloke K
Published: March 2023

The reuse of reclaimed asphalt material (RAM) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste is a reliable approach to limit the use of virgin aggregates for road construction and mitigate environmental challenges. This study highlights the structural performance of the cementitious base or cement-treated base (CTB) layer by incorporating reclaimed asphalt and plastic waste material. Structural compatibility of CTB layer with different proportions of RAM (20%, 45%, 70% and 95%), virgin aggregates and plastic waste (5%) is recognized by the moisture-density relationship, unconfined compressive, indirect tensile strength, flexural strength and California bearing ratio tests. In the current study, a ranking methodology is used to analyze the overall suitability of the cementitious base mix proportions using different laboratory test parameters. Furthermore, a finite element analysis using the ANSYS software is performed to investigate the effect of CTB layer on the pavement structural responses. Also, using the central public works department guidelines, a cost comparative study is provided. Experimental results showed that all the cementitious base mixes met the requirements for the unconfined compressive strength, except for the 95% and 70% RAM mixes. Therefore, 20%-45% of RAM can partially be used in the CTB layer to replace virgin aggregates partially. The finite element analysis results showed that CTB reduced fatigue strain by 57% and surface deformation by 47%. Moreover, it has been concluded that by utilizing a cementitious base with RAM, there is a 30% cost reduction. KEYWORDS: Reclaimed asphalt material, Cement-treated base, Polyethylene terephthalate, Finite element analysis, Unconfined compressive strength.
Damage Mechanism on Different Joint Types of Plain Concrete under Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Guo Shanshan , Cui Deyong , Lv Liang
Published: March 2023

Excavation of tunnels or chambers causes crack initiation, propagation and coalescence, resulting in the instability and destruction of underground projects. Understanding the damage mechanism of joint rock-like materials is important for maintaining the stability of concrete construction. Based on the Mohr–Coulomb criterion and Lemaitre strain equivalence hypothesis, the coupling-damage constitutive model of rock masses was improved for application to plain concrete. Parameters including the mesoscopic and macro-meso coupling damage variables, as well as the fractal dimension, were calculated to realize the non-linear mechanical behaviour during damage evolution. The rationality of the model was verified by comparing experimental and theoretical parameters. Results revealed that the coupled-damage constitutive model of rock masses has a good applicability to plain concrete. Furthermore, two main factors affected the damage deformation: the number of joints and the inclination angle. As the number of joints increased, the early damage accumulation increased and the inflection point of the damage rate occurred in advance. The damage deformation varied significantly when the inclination angle was changed. The cumulative damage curve of the plain-concrete specimens is shown as the evolution law of an S-type curve. Both peak strength and elastic modulus were positively correlated with the damage variable. Moreover, a smaller peak strength resulted in a larger fractal dimension and coupling-damage variable. KEYWORDS: Rock mass, Joint inclination angle, Mesoscopic, Macroscopic, Fractal dimension, Coupling-damage constitutive model.
The Role of Law in Indonesia's Economic Development in the Digital Era
Authors: Sinaga Wetmen
Published: March 2023

The current digital economy raises demands from business people to carry out activities online. Law No. 5 of 1999 about the Prohibition of Monopolistic Practices and Unfair Business Competition, is still unable to accommodate the impact of the digital economy that will emerge in the future. The development of the digital economy will lead to an increase in the ability of digital platforms to collect more data, increase the competitiveness of online store owners and with the emergence of several applications, so that the dominant position of digital platforms can be misused which can result in competitors being uncompetitive at the market level. Related to this, it is necessary to have regulations that regulate in a more detailed scope related to the existence of juridical protection of personal data of people which in the future will be required in data collection on the ongoing practice of changing digital economy.
Colour stability of steamed poplar wood during short-term photodegradation
Authors: Banadics Endre A. , Tolvaj Laszlo , Varga Denes
Published: March 2023

Plantation poplar (Populus x euramericana cv. Pannonia) wood samples were steamed at 100 °C, 110 °C, and 120 °C and then irradiated by a strong UV emitter mercury lamp to test their colour stability. The colour change was evaluated and presented in a CIE Lab colour coordinate system. For the control, unsteamed poplar specimens were irradiated using the same mercury lamp. A considerable increase in colour saturation in the specimens was generated by steaming, and the saturation value further increased during the UV treatment. The lightness value of the unsteamed control specimens decreased continuously during the entire UV irradiation period. In contrast, the lightness value of the steamed samples decreased only during the first seven hours of the UV treatment and remained constant afterward. Steaming enhanced the redness stability of the poplar wood against UV irradiation. Modification of wood components during steaming at 120 °C stabilised the poplar wood redness against short-term photodegradation. Steaming slightly reduced the yellow colour sensitivity of the poplar to photodegradation.
Nanoclay’s influence on mechanical and thermal properties of a polypropylene/poplar wood flour nanocomposite
Authors: Khakifirouz Alireza , Samariha Ahmad , Karbaschi Ali , Benakachi Mehdi Asadollahi , Beigloo Jafar Ghaje
Published: March 2023

The effects of nanoclay content were investigated vs. the mechanical, thermal, and morphological characteristics of a nanocomposite made from poplar wood flour and polypropylene. The wood flour, polypropylene, nanoclay, and the maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) were mixed in an extruder, and the test specimens were made via injection casting. Then, the mechanical and thermal properties were examined. The results showed that the tensile strength, flexural strength, and flexural modulus were improved when the wood flour content increased from 40% to 50%. Additionally, increasing the wood flour content from 40% to 60% enhanced the tensile modulus. The addition of nanoclay at dosages up to 2 wt% enhanced the tensile strength and the tensile modulus, whereas these properties were degraded with the addition of nanoclay at up to 4 wt%. The tensile strength and flexural modulus improved when the nanoclay content increased up to 4 wt%. The crystallinity enthalpy decreased when the wood flour content increased.
Combustion properties of mixed black liquor solids from linter and reed pulping
Authors: Su Zhen-Hua , Mahmoud Mohamed S. , Fan ShuJie , Zhang Yu , Peng Feng
Published: March 2023

In order to find the suitable alkali recovery process for linter and reed pulping discharges, the physicochemical properties of the black liquor solids from linters pulping and black liquor solids from reed pulping were analyzed. The swelling volume index, calorific value, and pyrolysis characteristics of five samples of mixed black liquor solids were tested. The kinetics of the combustion process of the samples were further studied. The results showed that the calorific value and swelling index of the reed black liquor was higher and its inorganic content was lower. During the combustion period, the droplet undergoes four stages; drying, devolatilisation or pyrolysis, char burning, and smelt reaction. With the increase of reed pulping black liquor solids in the sample, the activation energy decreased, while the frequency factors increased. As a result, the combustion performance of the mixed solids was significantly improved.
Effects of artificial weathering on the surface properties of ultraviolet varnish applied to lemonwood (Citrus limon (L.) Burm.)
Authors: Ayata Ümit
Published: March 2023

Ultraviolet varnishes are widely used for production processes in the parquet industry. A large number of chemicals are used in this sector, and each one has different characteristics. In this study, the effects of accelerated aging of ultraviolet varnish (3 and 5 coats) when applied to lemonwood (Citrus limon (L.) Burm.) (grown in Mezitli, Mersin, Turkey) were investigated. The ultraviolet varnish coated samples were subjected to aging processes (144 h, 288 h, and 432 h) by using UV-A 340 nm lamps. Color (L*, a*, b*, and ΔE*) parameters, glossiness (perpendicular (⊥) and parallel (//) at 20°, 60°, and 85°), and surface adhesion strength via the pull-off method for ultraviolet varnish coated samples were quantified before and after weathering. According to the results, the varnish type, aging period, and interaction between all studied variables, i.e. L*, a*, b* color parameters, glossiness (perpendicular (⊥) and parallel (//) at 20°, 60°, and 85°), and adhesion strength were found to alter the surface properties. As a result, the lemon tree can be used in the production of an ultraviolet parquet system.
Kur’an’daki Peygamberler Örnekliğinde Kardeşlerin Hukuku
Authors: VARLI Abdussamet , TOPYAY Yusuf
Published: March 2023

Kur’an, gönderilmiş olan birçok peygamberden sadece çok azının hayatından tüm insanlık için rol model olacak kısmi örneklere yer vermiştir. Dolayısıyla Kur’an’da kendisine yer bulmuş olan peygamberî örneklerin, insanlık tarihi içerisinden adeta seçilmek suretiyle ele alınmış çok önemli hususları ihtiva etmiş olduğu muhakkaktır. Peygamberlerin gönderilmiş oldukları toplumlar ile aralarında geçen tebliğ, davet, mücadele, diyalog gibi ilişkilere bakıldığında, bu örneklerin inanan kimselerin günlük hayatının her safhasında karşısına çıkacak ailevi, sosyal, ahlaki ilkeleri barındırmış olduğu müşahede edilecektir. Sosyal hayatın ailede biçimlenmesinde birincil yeri ve etkisi olan (biyolojik) kardeşlerin uyumu aynı zamanda İslam’ın hedeflemiş olduğu ideal toplumun oluşmasını sağlayacaktır. Günlük hayat içerisinde fertlerin en çok hukuku taalluk eden kişilerin başında kardeşlerinin geldiği söylenilebilir. Sosyal bir varlık olması yönüyle oluşturacağı çevresinde ise insanın en önemli muhataplarından biri, hayata aynı ortamda başladığı, aynı kültür ve terbiyeyi aldığı ve benzer mücadeleleri birlikte vermiş olduğu kardeşleridir. Kardeşler arasında oluşacak olan hukukun birçok yönüyle topluma yansıyacak olması ve toplumun şekillenmesi sürecinde birincil etkiye sahip olması sebebiyle, Kur’an’ın kardeşler arası iletişime bakışı son derece önemlidir. Bu önemli iletişim ortamında, rol model olmuş peygamberleri, kardeşlerin kendi hayatlarında örnek almaları ise inanmış bir kimse için olmazsa olmazlar arasında kabul edilmelidir. Ailede kardeşler özelinde Kur’an’ın en önemli rol model şahsiyetler olarak insanlığa sunmuş olduğu peygamber hayatları çerçevesinde ne söylemiş olduğu bu çalışmanın ana eksenini oluşturmaktadır. Kıyamete dek insanlık için yol gösterici kimliğe sahip olan Kitabullah’ın, ailenin ve toplumun temeli mahiyetindeki kardeşler hakkındaki yaklaşımı peygamberler özelinde hangi mesaj ve örneklerle insanlığa sunulmuştur? Bu soru cevaplandığında ilahi öğreti çerçevesinde oluşturulmak istenen fertler arası sağlıklı birincil ilişkilerin keyfiyeti de bir nebze cevabını bulmuş olacaktır.
Ebüzziyâ Tevfik Bey ve Matbaa-i Ebüzziyâ’da Basılan Kûfi Yazı Başlıklı Eserler
Authors: GÖKTEPE Erdem
Published: March 2023

Ebüzziyâ Mehmed Tevfik Bey, Osmanlı İmparatorluğunun son yarım asrında özellikle basın ve yayıncılık alanında birçok eser vermiş devrin önemli isimlerindendir. Avrupa’da basın alanındaki yenilikleri ve gelişmeleri yakından takip ederek İstanbul’da kurduğu Matbaa-i Ebüzziyâ’da yurtdışından getirdiği baskı malzemelerini ve klişeleri yine kendi ürettiği malzemelerle birlikte kullanmış ve böylelikle Osmanlı basın tarihinde birçok ilkleri yayın hayatına katmıştır.
Tevfik Beyin kurduğu Matbaa-i Ebüzziyâ, dönemin otomatik makinelerle çalışan ilk Türk matbaası özelliğini taşımaktadır. Matbaa-i Ebüzziyâ’da Türkçe’nin yanında ayrıca Fransızca başta olmak üzere batı dillerinde de türlü kitap, gazete, evrak, fatura, zarf, etiket, form, kartvizit, kartpostallar ve çeşitli evrak basımı yapılmıştır.
Osmanlı Devletinde batı tekniğiyle güzel ve temiz baskı yapma işini kendi matbaasında geliştiren Ebüzziyâ Tevfik Bey yayınladığı eserlerle, Almanya'da 1889'dan beri düzenlenen milletlerarası sanat baskıları (edition de lux) yarışmalarına katılmış ve bu yarışmalarda her yıl birkaç eseri dereceye girmiştir. Tevfik Beyin yarışmalara katıldığı eserleri “ lnternationale Graphische MusterAustausch” adlı yıllığa alınmıştır. Ebüzziyâ Tevfik Beyin yayıncılık alanındaki başarısından dolayı kendisine Fransa Devleti tarafından da kültür hizmeti liyakat madalyası verilmiştir.
Ebüzziyâ Tevfik Bey, Osmanlı basın tarihinde de kûfi yazıyı kullanarak yaptığı çalışmalarla, son üç asır kadar bir süre Osmanlı tarihinde kullanım pratiği durmuş olan kûfi yazıyı yeniden canlandırmış ve bu yazının basın alanından mimariye, halı dokumadan çeşitli tüketim ürünlerine varan geniş bir yelpazede uygulamasını yaparak kûfi yazının kullanımının yeniden canlanmasına öncülük etmiştir. Avrupadan getirdiği klişeleri, yapmakta hünerli olduğu tezhip sanatındaki girift süslemeler ve kûfi yazıyı bir arada kullanarak kendine has bir üslub ile yorumlayan Ebüzziyâ Tevfik Bey, daha önce başka bir yerde görülmeyen kûfi yazılı kapak tasarımlarını bastırdığı eserlerle sergilemiştir. Bu çalışmada Ebüzziyâ Tevfik Beyin biyografisine ve Matbaa-i Ebüzziyâ’ da ürettiği kûfi yazı başlıklı kitap, mecmua, yıllık ve kart tasarımı gibi eserlerin kûfi yazı tasarımlarına yer verilmiştir.
Non-destructive screening methodology based on handheld XRF for the classification of concrete: cement type-driven separation
Authors: Nedeljković Marija , Tošić Nikola , Holthuizen Patrick , França de Mendonça Filho Fernando , Çopuroğlu Oğuzhan , Schlangen Erik , Fennis Sonja
Published: March 2023

The utilization of locally available concrete waste for producing recycled concrete aggregates is recognized as one of the most sustainable ways of satisfying the growing demand for concrete production. However, the quality of concrete waste depends on its origin and it may significantly differ from one concrete structure to another. Knowing the chemical composition of the parent concrete is crucial for determining or verifying the origin of the raw materials. For this reason, pre-demolition concrete waste streams need to be characterized and classified. Therefore, a new non-destructive method for determining the cement and aggregate type in hardened concrete using handheld X-ray fluorescence (hXRF) analyser is presented in this paper. The method was tested on different raw powders and on concretes containing different types of cements including CEM I 42.5 N (Portland cement), CEM II/B-V 42.5 N (Portland-fly ash cement), CEM III/B 42.5 N (GGBFS cement). Combined desktop XRF and Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) measurements were used for the purpose of validation. The results revealed that the curing of concrete affects the results: a dried concrete surface condition was optimal for measurements since it limits the impact of the concrete surface moisture and efflorescence on characteristic element oxides, such as CaO. The effective measurement duration was 30 s. A CEM III/B 42.5 N (GGBFS)-based concrete surface was distinguished from other concretes using Al2O3, MgO and Fe2O3as characteristic oxides. The inner layers of concrete were rich in SiO2, the oxide characteristic for the aggregate composition tested in this study. This shows that hXRF is suitable for use in concrete, provided that the concrete surface is dried and the characteristic elements are defined to ensure a distinction between different cement and aggregate types. Direct adoption of such characterization, however, requires field testing across a wide range of concrete compositions and in situ conditions.
A Measurement Tool for Evaluating Career Goal Inconsistencies Between Individuals and Parents: A Validity and Reliability Study of the Turkish Version
Authors: KÖKSAL Burak , YAM Faruk Caner
Published: March 2023

In this study, a measurement tool that evaluates career goal inconsistencies between individuals and parents was adapted into Turkish. The sample group consists of 410 university students, aged between 18 and 31 years. The Discrepancies Between Individual-Set and Parent-Set Career Goals Scale (DBIPCGS), Career Stress Scale (CSS,) and Life Satisfaction Scale (LCS) were used as data collection tools in the study. The structure of DBIPCGS was tested by confirmatory factor analysis. The model goodness of fit values obtained in confirmatory factor analysis showed that the structure of the scale was confirmed. The internal consistency coefficient (Cronbach Alpha) of the scale was calculated as .78 for the ability dimension, .90 for the choice dimension, .92 for the enthusiasm dimension, and .93 for the total score of the scale. As a result of the correlation analysis conducted for the criterion validity, a positive relationship was found between DBIPCGS and the CSS, and a negative relationship with the LCS. As a result, DBIPCGS is a valid and reliable measurement tool that can be used in Turkish culture.
Commercialization of green hydrogen production from kraal manure in the Eastern Cape, South Africa: A review
Authors: Dyantyi Noluntu , Ncanywa Thobeka
Published: March 2023

Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement launched in 2011 contracts renewable energy producers to supplement the national electricity grid. No preferred bidders produce energy using hydrogen fuel cells, particularly Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC), possibly due to technicalities associated with qualifying hydrogen and fuel cells as renewable. The study explores processes to be followed in South Africa to commercialize green hydrogen production for PEMFC from kraal manure. The paper employed an integrative literature review methodology. There are different stages in product commercialisation, such as developing a product, taking the product to markets, growth, and diffusion. The discussions indicate a huge amount of hydrogen that can be produced from kraal manure that is in abundance in the Eastern Cape. Commercialization of hydrogen production can address global economic goals such as waste management, fighting poverty, reducing unemployment and addressing energy challenges.
Trend analysis and inter-annual variability in wind speed in South Africa
Authors: Chauke Mamello
Published: March 2023

Reliable forecasts of long-term longitudinal wind speed patterns may help predict air circulation changes. They are also essential for the planning and financing of wind projects for Independent Power Producers (IPPs). Long-term wind speed trends and variations in historical mean wind speed data were examined using Mann Kendall’s test and calculating inter-annual variability (IAV). The Wind Atlas for South Africa (WASA) provides high resolution quality wind data for research and applications locally. WASA has 19 meteorological stations in South Africa. The WASA project began in 2009 with the aim of mapping South Africa's wind resource, allowing stakeholders in the wind energy sector and industry to explore and prepare for utility-scale wind power generation. For the past ten years, WASA has been measuring and providing data.The results showed an increasing trend at WM01 and a decreasing trend at WM08. There was no clear trend at other wind masts. Satellite data was used to validate results and no trends were observed at most of the stations. IAV values for this study ranged between 1.088% and 3.353% which is relatively low compared to the commonly found IAV values of 5-6%, implying that mean annual wind speed variation at these stations is low. To confirm a clear trend in wind speed, it is recommended that further work be done with long term periods and substantiate our finding with the use of historical simulation and climate change scenarios.
Investigation of Wind Data Resolution for Small Wind Turbine Performance Study
Authors: Silwal Kimon , Freere Peter
Published: March 2023

Small wind turbine sites, in general, use a 0.5Hz sampling interval and a 10-minute averaging interval for a feasibility study or turbine testing.  Studies have established that the calculated performance variation of small wind turbines when averaging at large time intervals.  The performance variation is larger for sites with high wind variability. However, these studies are often based on low sampling frequency and high averaging intervals. 

In the present study, wind speed data has been measured at a high sampling frequency of 20Hz with an ultrasonic sensor.  A dynamic model of a 50W Rutland wind turbine is used to analyse the simulated performance using wind speed data at a range of sampling intervals and some averaging intervals.  The wind turbine and the anemometer are installed in a residential area of high wind variability. 

The energy is calculated and compared directly using the wind turbine model and using the IEC recommended method of bins.  The direct method results show that the rise in instantaneous sampling intervals up to 20 seconds has an insignificant effect on the energy output.  Whereas, for 2-seconds sampled wind data averaged over 10-minutes, energy overestimates of 19% is observed.  However, where only 10-minute interval averaged wind data are available, there is a significant underestimate in energy by 45%.  The energy calculated using the method of bins overestimates the energy by 19% for high resolution wind data and underestimates by 22% for 10-minute average data.
Modelling emissions from Eskom's coal fired power stations using Generalised Linear Models
Authors: Chikobvu D , Mamba M.
Published: March 2023

The aim of this paper is to determine if a Generalised Linear Model (GLM) is a better model over the traditional simple linear regression when fitted to nitrogen dioxide (N02) emitted into the atmosphere during the production ol electricity from 13 Eskoms coal fuelled power stations. GLMs have flexibilities of allowing the variance to vary as a function of the mean (non-constant variance), and have the advantage of keeping the data in its original scale. Unlike regression, the models do not assume a linear relationship between the response variable and the explanatory variables, and instead the link function is used. The data also need not be Normally distributed. Group-lasso interaction network (glintemet) was used in variable selection for the GLM models. A similar model using regression analysis was fitted foi comparison. The results show that a GLM can be used to predict and explain NO2 emissions from coal fired electricity stations in South Africa. The Lognormal model was found to be the better model by diagnostic measures including plots that showed improved variance behavior in the residuals. Various variables such as amount of electricity sent oui (in GWhs), age of power station (in years), power station used, and interaction terms such as electricity and station, Age and station can be used in describing and predicting NO2 emissions (in tons) from Eskoms coal fuelled powei stations. Keywords: Eskom; generalised linear modelfs) (GLM); linear regression; lognormal distribution; nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions.
The association between social media use and physical activity among Canadian adolescents: a Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study
Authors: Morningstar Brandon , Clayborne Zahra , Wong Suzy L. , Roberts Karen C. , Prince Stephanie A. , Gariépy Geneviève , Goldfield Gary S. , Janssen Ian , Lang Justin J.
Published: March 2023

Objective

To determine the association between social media use (SMU) and physical activity (PA) among Canadian adolescents.

Methods

We used data from 12,358 participants in grades 6 to 10 who responded to the Canadian component of the 2017/2018 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey. Social media intensity and problematic SMU were assessed using a 4-point mutually exclusive scale that contained three categories based on intensity (non-active, active, and intense SMU) and one category based on the presence of addiction-like symptoms irrespective of intensity (problematic SMU). PA was assessed for five domains (i.e., school curriculum, organized sport, exercise, outdoor play, and active transport) and dichotomized using the first quartile to represent high PA engagement in each domain. Meeting PA recommendation of 60 min per day of moderate-to-vigorous PA was calculated using the sum of the five domains. Logistic regression models were used to assess the association between SMU and PA, with active SMU used as the reference group for all models.

Results

Non-active SMU was associated with lower odds of meeting the daily PA recommendations and of high engagement in all five domains of PA when compared to active SMU. Intense SMU was associated with higher odds of meeting the daily PA recommendations. Problematic SMU was not associated with meeting daily PA recommendations, but it was significantly associated with lower odds of high PA engagement in the exercise domain.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that non-active SMU was significantly associated with lower PA levels. Problematic SMU was only significantly associated with lower PA levels in the exercise domain. Intense SMU was associated with higher odds of meeting the PA recommendation.