bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energetics and 3D Structure of Elementary Events in Solar Coronal Heating
Authors: Einaudi G. , Dahlburg R. B. , Ugarte-Urra I. , Reep J. W. , Rappazzo A. F. , Velli M.
Published: March 2021

Parker first proposed (1972) that coronal heating was the necessary outcome of an energy flux caused by the tangling of coronal magnetic field lines by photospheric flows. In this paper we discuss how this model has been modified by subsequent numerical simulations outlining in particular the substantial differences between the “nanoflares” introduced by Parker and “elementary events,” defined here as small-scale spatially and temporally isolated heating events resulting from the continuous formation and dissipation of field-aligned current sheets within a coronal loop. We present numerical simulations of the compressible 3D MHD equations using the HYPERION code. We use two clustering algorithms to investigate the properties of the simulated elementary events: an IDL implementation of a density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise technique, and our own physical distance clustering algorithm. We identify and track elementary heating events in time, both in temperature and in Joule heating space. For every event we characterize properties such as density, temperature, volume, aspect ratio, length, thickness, duration, and energy. The energies of the events are in the range of 1018–1021 erg, with durations shorter than 100 s. A few events last up to 200 s and release energies up to 1023 erg. While high temperatures are typically located at the flux tube apex, the currents extend all the way to the footpoints. Hence, a single elementary event cannot at present be detected. The observed emission is due to the superposition of many elementary events distributed randomly in space and time within the loop.
Path2Integrity Learning Cards & Handbook for Trainers and Lecturers: Y-Series
Authors: Prieß-Buchheit Julia , Häberlein Lisa , Lindemann Tom
Published: March 2021

Do you want to teach researchers how to clarify their own role in research, as well as help them understand how important reliable research is for society? This handbook accompanies the Path2Integrity learning cards (P2ILC) on eight topics (https://www.path2integrity.eu/ri-materials) and introduces you to an easy and fun learning programme that has been evaluated in over 20 training sessions. The Path2Integrity learning cards Y-series is especially designed for early career and active researchers to learn how responsible research must necessarily be conducted in order to be reliable and in this sense useful for society.
Efficient method for the global noise filtering in measuring channels of the VVER NPP leak monitoring systems
Authors: Trykov Yevgeniy L. , Kudryaev Andrey A. , Kotsoyev Konstantin I. , Ananyev Aleksey A.
Published: March 2021

In accordance with Ref. (GOST R 58328-2018 “Pipelines of Nuclear Power Plants. Leak Before Break Concept”), NPPs with VVER-1200 reactors operate an acoustic leak monitoring system (ALMS) and a humidity leak monitoring system (HLMS), each performing the leak monitoring functions locally, independently of the other. The diagnostics results are conveyed to the upper level control system (LCS) to be further displayed for the main control room (MCR) operating personnel. There is also an integrated diagnostics system (IDS) intended to confirm the diagnosis and to update the leak rate values and coordinates based on analyzing the leak monitoring system readings and I&C signals. The system measuring channel readings are composed of background noise, the source for which are processes on the part of the reactor facility’s key components and auxiliary systems, and the leak signal in response to the leak occurrence. A major factor that affects the capability of leak monitoring systems to detect the leak is the quality of the background noise filtering. A new efficient global noise filtering method is proposed for being used as part of the integrated diagnostics system (IDS).
Le Secrétariat de la Convention-cadre des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques, l’orchestrateur dans l’élaboration de la politique climatique mondiale
Authors: Hickmann Thomas , Widerberg Oscar , Lederer Markus , Pattberg Philipp
Published: March 2021

Les scientifiques s’intéressent de plus en plus depuis peu au rôle et à la fonction des bureaucraties internationales dans l’élaboration des politiques de par le monde. Certains affirment que les fonctionnaires internationaux ont acquis une influence politique significative dans divers domaines stratégiques. Par rapport à d’autres bureaucraties internationales, la marge de manœuvre politique du Secrétariat de la Convention-cadre des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques est considérée comme relativement limitée. En raison de la structure problématique propre au domaine stratégique du changement climatique, les gouvernements nationaux ont conféré à ce secrétariat responsable d’un traité intergouvernemental un mandat relativement restreint. Toutefois, dans le présent article, nous soutenons que depuis quelques années, le Secrétariat de la Convention-cadre des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques desserre progressivement son carcan et élargit son spectre d’activités initial en associant différents acteurs infranationaux et non étatiques à un dialogue politique en utilisant l’orchestration facilitatrice comme mode de gouvernance. Dans le présent article, nous étudions l’évolution récente du Secrétariat de la Convention-cadre des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques et examinons la manière dont il initie, guide, élargit et renforce les actions climatiques infranationales et non étatiques pour faire progresser les négociations internationales sur le climat. Remarques à l’intention des praticiens Le Secrétariat de la Convention-cadre des Nations unies sur les changements climatiques a récemment acquis de nouveaux rôles et fonctions dans l’élaboration de la politique climatique mondiale. Alors qu’il était autrefois considéré comme un organe relativement technocrate au service des gouvernements nationaux avant tout, le Secrétariat du climat interagit de plus en plus avec les gouvernements infranationaux, les organisations de la société civile et les entreprises privées pour faire avancer la réponse mondiale aux changements climatiques. Nous soutenons que le Secrétariat du climat peut contribuer à l’élaboration des politiques climatiques mondiales en coordonnant et en orientant les initiatives des acteurs non étatiques vers la cohérence et les bonnes pratiques.
Motivations politiques négatives et normes comportementales persistantes : étude sur les filets de sécurité sociale au Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Abu Elias , Nawaz Faraha
Published: March 2021

Malgré le succès relatif de la lutte contre la pauvreté au cours des deux dernières décennies, la question des filets de sécurité sociale reste une question épineuse dans le domaine de l’intervention stratégique du gouvernement du Bangladesh. Le présent article vise à étudier deux séries de défis : les motivations politiques négatives et les normes comportementales persistantes. Pour cela, notre article propose un cadre conceptuel qui met en évidence les effets du clientélisme, des cadres institutionnels et de leur application, ainsi que des facteurs sociaux, humains et technologiques sur les filets de sécurité sociale. Nous verrons aussi comment les filets de sécurité sociale influencent la réduction de la pauvreté, des vulnérabilités et des risques, ce qui conduit au renforcement des capacités et à l’autonomisation des personnes vulnérables. Le cas du Bangladesh est examiné à la lumière du cadre conceptuel proposé. Remarques à l’intention des praticiens Les décideurs et les responsables de la mise en œuvre au niveau de l’État peuvent prendre conscience de l’importance de la participation de forums civiques en faveur de la défense des pauvres à différents stades de l’intervention des filets de sécurité sociale, de l’allocation de ressources suffisantes et de la résolution des nombreux déficits de gestion auxquels sont confrontés les filets de sécurité sociale. Les organisations internationales de développement doivent également tenir compte des variables contextuelles lorsqu’elles offrent une assistance aux pays en développement en général et au Bangladesh en particulier. Les acteurs politiques et les administrateurs doivent également tenir compte des contradictions majeures dans la formulation et la mise en œuvre des programmes de protection sociale au Bangladesh.
Analysis of Conditions for Reliable Predictions by Moodle Machine Learning Models
Authors: Bognár László , Fauszt Tibor , Nagy Gábor Zsolt
Published: March 2021

In this paper the issue of bias-variance trade-off in building and operating Moodle Machine Learning (ML) models are discussed to avoid traps of get-ting unreliable predictions. Moodle is one of the world’s most popular open source Learning Management System (LMS) with millions of users. Although since Moodle 3.4 release it is possible to create ML models within the LMS system very few studies have been published so far about the conditions of its proper application. Using these models as black boxes hold serious risks to get unreliable predictions and false alarms. From a comprehensive study of differently built machine learning models elaborated at the University of Dunaújváros in Hungary, one specific issue is addressed here, namely the in-fluence of the size and the row-column ratio of the predictor matrix on the goodness of the predictions. In the so-called Time Splitting Method in Moo-dle Learning Analytics the effect of varying numbers of time splits and of predictors has also been studied to see their influence on the bias and the variance of the models. An Applied Statistics course is used to demonstrate the consequences of the different model set up.
The Role of Summer Intensive Programmes on Improving Students’ Learning Outcomes in Rural Areas
Authors: Sagyndykova Zhailagul , Gazdiyeva Bella , Gabdullina Zarina , Akhmetzhanova Aida , Mektepbayeva Damel , Althonayan Abraham
Published: March 2021

Many countries face serious challenges with education in rural areas. Vast majority of education in rural areas are disadvantaged. In Kazakhstan, inef-fective outcomes of education in rural areas impact on most rural students are lack employability and entrepreneurial skills. This research investigates the role of intensive summer programmes on improving students’ learning outcomes aim to develop and Inspire employability and entrepreneurial skills and STEAM-education in rural schools of Kazakhstan. This research suggest that the summer program transferred practical skills and knowledge to stu-dents, while increasing their motivation to learn outside of the classroom in a way that traditional educational system has not. There are social and eco-nomic challenges in the rural areas: unemployment, the lack of highly skilled professionals, and low motivation. Summer programs appear to ad-dress all above issues by motivating youth to learn and providing them with practical skills that can be used in their private life and careers.
Quality Teaching in Online Higher Education: The Perspectives of 250 Online Tutors on Technology and Pedagogy
Authors: Vlachopoulos Dimitrios , Makri Agoritsa
Published: March 2021

Over the past few decades, education systems, especially in higher educa-tion, have been redefined. Such reforms inevitably require reconsideration of operational notions and definitions of quality, along with a number of relat-ed concepts. This reconsideration aligns with the core of higher education re-forms: improving efficacy and compatibility with emerging social demands while adapting to competitiveness and accountability trends. As primary players in the teaching and learning process, online tutors have a protagonis-tic role and, therefore, must be equipped with a suitable set of competencies and attributes in addition to content knowledge. This quantitative research aims to analyze the perceptions of 250 online tutors working in European higher education institutions, distributed in 5 knowledge areas: Business, Education, Humanities, Sciences and Health. This descriptive and explorato-ry nonexperimental study reveals the technological and pedagogical skills and competencies that online tutors consider fundamental for effective online teaching and proposes professional development actions to ensure quality online teaching
Cultivation Strategies for Scientific Research and Innovation Ability of College Students Majoring in Sports
Authors: Tang Min , Wei Dancheng
Published: March 2021

College students majoring in sports form the talent base for sports science. Their scientific research and innovation (SRI) ability directly bears on the level of sports science in future. In this paper, a questionnaire survey on the status quo of SRI ability cultivation for sports majors is carried out among postgraduate students and some teachers of sports department in five colleges of southwestern China’s Sichuan Province. The survey paints a grim picture on the SRI ability of sports majors: the students are relatively weak in SRI ability; the teachers have an average SRI ability, and pay insufficient efforts in instructing or cultivating the students’ SRI ability; the schools fail to pay enough attention to SRI ability cultivation of sports majors, not to mention creating favorable SRI conditions or environment for them. To solve these problems, the cultivation strategies for SRI ability of sports majors were designed in six aspects, namely, interest development, faculty building, and infrastructure construction. The research results provide new theoretical evidence to SRI ability cultivation of sports majors, and an important reference for promoting their SRI ability.
Prototyping and Usability Evaluation of Road Safety Education Courseware for Primary Schools in Malaysia
Authors: Zulkifli Abdul Nasir , Faisal Mohamed Nur Fadziana , Qasim Mustafa Moosa , Abu Bakar Nur Afiqah
Published: March 2021

The increasing number of road accidents and deaths among children in Malaysia is a concern. One of the main causes stems from lack of knowledge and skills in dealing with the complexity and condition of the road system. Recognizing the significance of road safety among students, road safety education has been introduced to primary schoolsby the Ministry of Education in 2008. Initially it was blended into the Malay language subject with the goal to equip the children withthe knowledge and skills about road safety.However, road safety teaching and learning still uses the conventional methods without the use of specialized tools. This paper introduces ROSE courseware, a specialized learning tool developed to meet the needs of the Malaysian primary school curriculum for road safety education. Its learning environment is a blend of virtual reality, augmented reality and interactive multimedia, which enables children to understand and acquire skills related to road safety through interactive, real-time and immersive learning tool. In order to receive the children’s feedbacks pertaining to their experience in interacting with the ROSE courseware, a usability evaluation was conducted. The results show that the children strongly agreed on the usefulness, information quality and interface quality of the ROSE courseware.
Security Issues in the Use of Mobile Educational Apps: A Review
Authors: Mkpojiogu Emmanuel O.C. , Hussain Azham , Agbudu Monday Onah
Published: March 2021

Although, there are several literatures pertaining to the security issues in the use of mobile apps, these literatures do not sufficiently address issues about the security challenges in the use of mobile educational app. Hence, this work attempts to review the available literatures with the aim of capturing the security issues in the use of mobile educational apps. To achieve the stated research goal, the study applied systematic literature review methodology. Sixty four (64) papers in the area of security issues in the use of mobile educational apps were downloaded. Out of these papers, twenty one (21) most relevant studies were selected for review in order to extract the appropriate information needed for the analysis. The results from the review reveals the scarcity of appropriate literatures on security issues in the use of mobile educational apps and that these issues are a thing of concern, and needed to be looked into in this ever growing world of technologies. However, most of the studies, taken single handedly reviewed lack of comprehensive framework to demonstrate the security challenges in the use of mobile educational apps. Thus, the results from this paper provide additional knowledge to the users of mobile apps as a whole; students in their usage of mobile educational apps and the research community on the current security challenges in the use of mobile educational apps.
The Use of Mobile Phones and their Apps in Tourism Marketing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Hazmi Nabil Mohemmed
Published: March 2021

This study aims at identifying the importance of using smartphone apps in tourism marketing in Al-Kharj Governorate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study used the descriptive and analytical approach in studying its hypotheses and achieving its objectives. It concluded that the majority of the study sample use smartphones and their tourism apps in the process of obtaining information and complete the purchasing process for the tourist trip.These apps are used to attract tourists as the best advertising method that attracts the targeted market. The study presented a set of recommendations, the most important of which is increasing cooperation between the authorities that supervise the tourism activity in the governorate when designing these apps and working to develop the technological infrastructure in line with the nature of development in the field of smartphones.
Digital Healthy Lifestyle Application for UUM Computer User
Authors: Othman Azliza , Shaari Nassiriah , Yusoff Yusrita Mohd
Published: March 2021

A computer is a vital tool for UUM community in doing routine jobs and activities. Spending many hours using a computer without breaks can cause bad effect on users’ health. Inappropriate computer use can cause muscle and joint pain, overuse injuries of the shoulder, arm, wrist or hand, and eyestrain. Fortunately, this pain and misery can be avoided with only a few simple routines. Therefore, a short break from using a computer is necessary. The break could be filled with a short and simple exercise. Physical exercise can provide many benefits to individual and organization. Besides improving the productivity of the organization, physical exercise also can help staff and students to be more focused, stay alert, feel motivated, energetic, and have less stress. In response to this, this paper introduces a digital health application to create health awareness among the UUM community. The methods employed in the study are a preliminary investigation, requirement gathering and analysis, prototype development, and prototype validation. From the requirement analysis phase, 11 criteria were gathered and applied in designing the Digital Healthy Lifestyle Application prototype. Then it was validated by the content and user interface experts. The experts responded positively towards the application.
User Acceptance of ‘Let’s Talk Now’ Mobile App for Dysarthric Children
Authors: Annamalai Subashini , Yusoff Yusrita Mohd , Harun Harryizman
Published: March 2021

Dysarthria is a neurological disorder that damages of motor speech articulation.Young children who suffered from this disorder have no problem with their cognition, but they have difficulties to speak out their words. They could not have an accurate and smooth communication with their family and friends due to this disorder. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the user acceptance of an interactive speaking tool in the form of a mobile application named 'Let's Talk Now' which was designed with redundant multimedia elements for the use of dysarthric children aged 3 to 7 years old. This mobile appwas designed and developed as an early intervention to help the dysarthric who are facing problem to communicate and enable them to be understood by others. It focuses on daily usable conversation terms for family, greeting and expressions, places, ordering food and beverages, activities and asking for help. This study involved 15 respondents who are related to dysarthria namely therapists, parents, and teacher of dysarthric children. The 'Let's Talk Now' mobile app’s acceptance was evaluated using the USE (Usefulness, Satisfaction and Ease of Use) Questionnaire (Lund, 2001) which was used to measure its user acceptance. The findings described that all of the respondents agreed that the 'Let's Talk Now' mobile app is usable and suitable in helping the communication between dysarthric children and people.
S’hybrider sous le 4e paradigme de la “science dirigée par les données massives” : l’ouverture des données favorise-t-elle l’interdisciplinarité et la transdisciplinarité ?
Authors: Squividant Hervé , Revelin Florence
Published: March 2021

Nous avons encore peu de recul sur la manière dont les communautés productrices de matériaux de recherche se saisissent des enjeux de l’ouverture des données dans le contexte actuel du Big Data et de la Science Ouverte, dépeint par Jim Gray comme l’ère du nouveau paradigme de la “Science dirigée par les données massives” (Hey, 2009). En particulier, lorsque ces communautés rassemblent différentes cultures épistémiques, impliquant une pluralité de rapports à la donnée. En prenant appui sur l’expérience d’un programme de recherche sur les relations en agriculture et littoral en Bretagne (Parchemins, 2016-2020), nous décrivons comment une équipe de 10 chercheurs et ingénieurs issus d’horizons divers (agronomie, sciences et techniques de l’information, anthropologie et études sociales des sciences) a intégré cet objectif en lien avec son ambition interdisciplinaire et transdisciplinaire, et a co-construit un système d’information modulaire et interopérable pour y répondre. Dans quelles mesures l’objectif de mise en partage des matériaux de recherche à un niveau à la fois interne et ouvert, favorise-t-il l’hybridation des approches scientifiques et l’ouverture de la science vers la société ? La description fine de l'instrumentation technique et numérique du partage des matériaux de recherche nous permet de mettre en lumière et de discuter une partie de ces formes d’hybridation.
Évaluation de la résilience communautaire : L’Indice Multidimensionnel de Résilience
Authors: Salava Julien , Randriamanampisoa Holimalala , Razanakoto Thierry , Lazamanana Pierre , Andrianjakatina Aina , Randrianalijaona Mahefasoa
Published: March 2021

L’évaluation de la résilience constitue le nœud de toute analyse en matière de gouvernance et de gestion des risques liés aux catastrophes. Le Cadre d’action de Hyogo (2005 – 2015), reconsidéré puis renforcé dans le Cadre de Sendai pour la Réduction des Risques de Catastrophe (2015-2030), justifie l’importance de la lutte contre la pauvreté à travers les efforts de Réduction des Risques de Catastrophes ; d’où l’utilité du concept destiné à orienter la pratique sur le changement et la variabilité climatiques et le développement en général. Il s’est alors produit un intérêt vis-à-vis de la résilience au sein du milieu académique et opérationnel. Le présent travail vise à proposer un outil d’évaluation de la résilience communautaire dont l’Indice Multidimensionnel de Résilience (IMR). L’objectif consiste à mesurer et évaluer le niveau de résilience d’une communauté au travers de la mise en œuvre dudit outil. Le résultat de l’évaluation de la résilience de la communauté rurale d’un village au Sud-Est de Madagascar montre que cette dernière peut s’appuyer sur ses propres ressources pour renforcer sa résilience, après l’avènement d’une catastrophe.
Le libre accès au service de la communication sur le changement climatique en Afrique
Authors: NDIAYE Marième Pollèle
Published: March 2021

Cette contribution est issue d’un projet de recherche consacré aux défis de la science ouverte pour stimuler la communication sur le changement climatique en Afrique. Nous tentons de comprendre d’abord, ce qui explique l’invisibilité des recherches dans ce domaine avant de questionner ce qui définit le décloisonnement scientifique. En nous servant des sciences de l’information et de la communication (SIC) comme guide, deux hypothèses serviront de fils conducteurs à la réflexion. La première consistera à envisager les temporalités organisationnelles comme facteurs pouvant influencer l’engagement des chercheurs en faveur d’une science ouverte. Dans le même ordre d’idée, la seconde hypothèse considérera l’aspect rhizomique (au sens de Gilles Deuleuze et Felix Guattari, 1976) des SIC tel un écueil pour identifier les recherches africaines autour de la communication sur le changement climatique.
Les enseignants et la diversité ethnoculturelle : entre différenciation et homogénéisation dans les discours et les pratiques pédagogiques
Authors: Mottet Geneviève
Published: March 2021

L’objectif de cet article est de présenter le rapport ambivalent qu’entretiennent les enseignants avec la diversité ethnoculturelle de leurs élèves. Nous verrons qu’ils mobilisent deux schèmes de discours et de pratiques qui s’entremêlent et s’opposent. D’une part, les professionnels cherchent à promouvoir la différenciation pédagogique et à prendre en compte la diversité des publics scolaires. D’autre part, ils développent paradoxalement des pratiques et produisent des discours qui entendent l’effacer, dans une visée d’homogénéisation, cherchant à ajuster les publics aux normes scolaires et sociétales ; soit à induire les bons comportements et à promouvoir la culture commune.
Visions et obstacles de la différenciation pédagogique pour des enseignants secondaires débutants
Authors: François Gremion , Lise Gremion
Published: March 2021

Entre idéal pédagogique et les contraintes situées, de jeunes enseignants secondaires débutants dans le métier évoquent, dans le cadre d’un focus group, ce que représente pour eux la différenciation pédagogique. Leurs définitions sont enracinées dans leur quotidien scolaire. Elles ne font pas référence à un modèle univoque, mais répondent à un prolongement de leur vécu en situation, ainsi qu’aux obstacles déjà rencontrés dans leur pratique, qu’il s’agisse de la surcharge des débuts dans le métier, de la nécessité de s’assimiler aux habitudes des collègues ou de l’économie de l’effort des élèves. Cette réalité s’actualise ici dans la singularité de chaque collège.
Le temps scolaire et sa place dans la dynamique décisionnelle d’enseignantes pour prendre en compte la diversité des besoins des élèves
Authors: Bergeron Léna
Published: March 2021

Une voie commune pour tenir compte de la diversité des besoins consiste à constater les difficultés dans le feu de l’action et de s’y ajuster. À l’inverse, une voie d’intervention plus proactive consiste à inscrire son enseignement dans une démarche intentionnelle d’anticipation des besoins des élèves afin d’en tenir compte a priori. Cette voie place la planification de l’enseignement comme levier important dans le projet de soutien à la réussite de tous les élèves. Les résultats de la recherche collaborative présentée dans cet article permettent de mieux comprendre le cheminement intellectuel (façon de mener sa pensée) et les ressources structurantes mobilisées par des enseignantes lorsqu’elles planifient leur enseignement dans un contexte de diversité. Plus particulièrement, l’accent est mis sur les résultats entourant le temps scolaire : son rôle dans les pensées planificatrices, la dynamique qui se joue au moment de différencier son enseignement, et les enjeux qui en résultent.
Différenciations adaptatives, palliatives et différenciations égalisatrices : l’exemple de l’apprentissage de la lecture
Authors: Garcia Sandrine
Published: March 2021

L’article s’interroge sur le flou et l’imprécision qui caractérisent les définitions institutionnelles de la différenciation comme adaptation à une différence individuelle. En s’appuyant sur plusieurs enquêtes, il montre que les contraintes pratiques auxquelles les enseignants sont confrontés conduisent, en l’absence d’une définition plus claire des enjeux de la différenciation, à un ajustement des enseignants au niveau initial des élèves. L’article distingue une différenciation adaptative et une différenciation palliative, qui dans les deux cas, soulèvent des questions. Il défend une conception de la différenciation égalisatrice expérimentée dans le domaine de l’apprentissage de la lecture qui a pour enjeu la réduction des inégalités.
Preparation of CaO-SiO2 Adsorbent for Potential CO2 Capture via Dry Mixing Method
Authors: Daud Farah Diana Mohd , Kosen Nur Asyikin , Mahmud Mudrikah Sofia , Sariffudin Norshahida , Zaki Hafizah Hanim Mohd
Published: March 2021

Calcium-looping technology is defined as one of the most desirable methods of carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS). However, because of sintering, rapid deactivation of CaO-sorbents is currently a major barrier to this technology. The stability of calcium based sorbent may be enhance by incorporating them with inert support materials such as MgO, Al2O2, ZrO2 and SiO2. For this study, calcium based sorbent has been incorporate with silica obtained from rice husk ash. CaO-SiO2 sorbents are prepared using physical dry mixing method which is much simpler compared to other available methods. The prepared CaO-SiO2 sorbents were then characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). New crystalline phase, larnite (Ca2SiO4) was detected in XRD patterns and this phase possess good chemical durability and may help to prevent sintering effect of calcium based sorbents and enhance their cyclic capability. CaO-SiO2 sorbent calcined at 700 oC with different grinding times have highest intensity of XRD peak at (104) with element of calcite. Sorbents with different weight composition of CaCO3-RHA were observed to have different surface morphology. SEM images of the sorbent (90wt% CaCO3-RHA) before calcination showed bigger particle size with irregular shape and more porosity. Then, SEM analysis was conducted for samples with different grinding times after calcination. CaO-SiO2 sorbents with 20minutes grinding time exhibited small size of particles with some porosity. Besides that, the particles are well distributed without agglomeration occured. The CaO-SiO2 sorbent calcined at 700 oC sorbents were tested for 20 consecutive carbonation and calcination cycles using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). CaO-SiO2 sorbent treated with 700 oC calcination temperature and 20 minutes of grinding shows better cyclic CO2 sorption capacity.
Performance of Hybrid Reinforced Metal Matrix Composite Brake Disc: Simulation Approach
Authors: Gan Wei Kang , Fatchurrohman Nanang
Published: March 2021

A brake disc has an significant role in the vehicle and it is used to stop or decrease the velocity of the vehicle. The demand of metal matrix composites (MMCs) is greatly increased in fabricating the brake disc since it possesses a low density and high thermal conductivity. Over-heating will lead to the malfunction of the braking system and affect the safety of vehicle. Reduced weight of brake disc can decrease the use of fuel of the vehicle thus improve the fuel usage efficiency. This paper is focussed to determine the suitability of AlSiCGr hybrid MMCs compared to cast iron in terms of thermal and structural properties for brake disc. Both design of brake discs was proposed and modelled using CATIA and then imported to ANSYS software for structural and thermal analysis. The simulation results showed that AlSiCGr hybrid MMCs brake disc has higher thermal and structural performance compared to the original cast iron brake disc.
Development and Validation of a New Competency Framework for Athletic Therapy in Canada
Authors: Lafave Mark R. , Owen Jeffrey M. , Eubank Breda , DeMont Richard
Published: March 2021

Context

Competency-based education (CBE) is entrenched in educating health professionals in Canada. CBE is a framework that identifies desired performance characteristics in training competent, entry-level health professionals.

Objective

To update, develop, and validate a new Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA) framework for athletic therapy education.

Design

Framework development occurred in 4 phases and was developed through a multistage process that involved a scoping review (phase 1) and consensus methodology (ie, a blending of modified Ebel and modified Delphi consensus methods; phases 2–4).

Patients or Other Participants

Phase 2: a total of 7 experts (program directors) from each Canadian accredited institution. Phase 3: a total of 14 experts (1 program director and educational expert from each accredited institution). Phase 4: a total of 7 experts (program directors) and 246 certified members of the CATA.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Each phase consisted of a systematic process with 80% consensus agreement set a priori. In phase 1, a scoping review was conducted to identify common terminology that could be used to guide the framework development process and to identify competency frameworks used by other health professional organizations. Phase 2 consisted of adopting a common language that would serve to keep the expert group on the task at hand and avoid confusion. In phase 3, frameworks used by other health professional organizations were evaluated and used to determine the validity of the old CATA framework. In phase 4, the old CATA framework was updated and a new framework was developed and validated.

Results

In phase 1, the result of the scoping review yielded 368 papers, of which 5 were used to propose a common language for phase 2 and 9 highlighted competency frameworks used by other health professions for comparison in phase 3. In phase 3, the expert group voted unanimously to adopt and adapt the CanMEDS framework (ie, roles). In phase 4, the new CATA competency framework was validated, and most competencies achieved consensus. Competencies that did not achieve consensus in the first round of voting underwent face-to-face discussions via videoconferencing. After discussions, the remaining competencies were revised, and all newly worded competencies achieved consensus.

Conclusions

The resultant framework was validated, and most competencies achieved consensus. The new athletic therapy competency framework outlines the 165 competencies resulting from this methodical process and will hopefully facilitate interdisciplinary communication and practice.
Table of Contents Vol 41, No 1 (2020)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2021

No abstract available.
Table of Contents Vol 16, No 1 (2020)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2021

No abstract available.
Major histocompatibility complex Class II-based therapy for stroke
Authors: Gonzales-Portillo Bella M. , Lee Jea-Young , Vandenbark Arthur A. , Offner Halina , Borlongan Cesario V.
Published: March 2021

This review discusses the potential of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class II constructs as stroke therapeutics. We focus on the delivery of MHC Class II construct, DRmQ, as a safe and effective treatment for ischemic stroke. DRmQ was observed to attenuate behavioral deficits and decrease microglia activation and proinflammatory cytokines, illustrating its ability to mitigate the secondary cell death following stroke. Similar anti-neuroinflammation treatments, such as transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells and mitochondrial transfers, are briefly discussed to provide further support that sequestration of inflammation stands as a robust therapeutic target for stroke.
Cell-based treatment for perinatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy
Authors: Park You Jeong , Borlongan Cesario V. , Dezawa Mari
Published: March 2021

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a major cause of acute neonatal brain injury and can lead to disabling long-term neurological complications. Treatment for HIE is limited to supportive care and hypothermia within 6 h injury which is reserved for full-term infants. Preclinical studies suggest the potential for cell-based therapies as effective treatments for HIE. Some clinical trials using umbilical cord blood cells, placenta-derived stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and others have yielded promising results though more studies are needed to optimize protocols and multi-center trials are needed to prove safety and efficacy. To date, the therapeutic effects of most cell-based therapies are hypothesized to stem from the bystander effect of donor cells. Transplantation of stem cells attenuate the aberrant inflammation cascade following HIE and provide a more ideal environment for endogenous neurogenesis and repair. Recently, a subset of MSCs, the multilineage-differentiating stress-enduring (Muse) cells have shown to treat HIE and other models of neurologic diseases by replacing dead or ischemic cells and have reached clinical trials. In this review, we examine the different cell sources used in clinical trials and evaluate the underlying mechanism behind their therapeutic effects. Three databases–PubMed, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov–were used to review preclinical and clinical experimental treatments for HIE.
Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Body Composition and Metabolism among Obese Asian Indians with Prediabetes and Diabetes
Authors: Chandru Sundaramoorthy , Pramodkumar Thyparambil Aravindakshan , Pradeepa Rajendra , Jebarani Saravanan , Prasad Y, D. Meher , Praveen Raj P. , Sathish Babu Jagannathan , Anjana Ranjit Mohan , Mohan Viswanathan
Published: March 2021

Background:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in body composition, central obesity (visceral and liver fat), and pro-inflammatory markers after bariatric surgery in obese Asian Indians with prediabetes and diabetes.

Materials and Methods:

This is 1-year follow-up study of 30 obese patients (BMI of 30–40 kg/m2) with prediabetes and diabetes who underwent bariatric surgery at tertiary diabetes center in South India. HbA1c, adiponectin, liver enzymes, ferritin, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were tested before surgery and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Body composition analysis and ultrasound hepatic fat grading were done before and at 6 and 12 months’ post-surgery.

Results:

The baseline HbA1c were 8.3 ± 1.8% which reduced to 6.1 ± 0.8% at 12 months. The percent body fat, visceral fat area, and slim lean mass reduced significantly at 12 months compared with baseline (P < 0.001). Hepatic steatosis and liver enzymes also significantly reduced at 12 months compared with baseline. hs-CRP and ferritin significantly reduced (P < 0.05) at 12 months post-op [2.9 ± 2.8 mg/L, 39 ± 29 ng/mL] compared with baseline [7.5 ± 3.5 mg/L, 61 ± 44 ng/mL], respectively. Serum adiponectin levels significantly increased from 26.4 ± 1.4 to 67 ± 3.5 ng/mL after the surgery.

Conclusion:

Bariatric surgery is effective in reducing total body fat and visceral fat area, hepatic steatosis with an improvement in liver enzyme levels after bariatric surgery. hs-CRP, ferritin, and adiponectin also significantly improved following surgery.
Inhaled Glucagon
Authors: Heba Salva Fatima , Parveen Uzma , Khanum Sara Sana Ayesha , Gulnaaz Maaria , Tabassum Maimuna , Safiyya Syeda Batool
Published: March 2021

Until now injectable glucagon was the only available treatment used in the management of severe hypoglycemia wherein glucagon had to be prepared in several steps before administration. This method of delivery of injectable glucagon being cumbersome and unappealing for a wide majority of the patients had led to a search for an alternative route of drug delivery. Intranasal (IN) glucagon now serves an efficient, safe, easy to administer, and a favorable substitute to glucagon injections. This ready-to-use device stands in clear contrast to overcome the limitations associated with the currently available glucagon preparations, which has emerged a key advancement in the management of severe hypoglycemia in adolescents and children with type 1 diabetes. IN glucagon is now being developed and studied in other countries as well to meet the unmet need for an easy and convenient glucagon administration. This review covers the basic information of nasal glucagon, trials on nasal glucagon in children's and adults, and its potential uses, limitations, and future scope in practice.
Assessment of Acute Complications of Diabetes Mellitus Using Clinical Records of Diabetic Patients in Adama Hospital Medical College, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Tilaye Tigist , Chala Bayissa
Published: March 2021

Background:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the emerging public health problems in developing countries. Patients with acute complications of the disease frequently seek care in hospital emergency departments. However, the magnitude of acute complications of DM has not been studied at facility levels. This study was aimed at assessing the prevalence and associated risks of acute complications of DM at health facilities.

Materials and Methods:

Hospital-based cross-sectional study design was used. The source of population was medical records of DM patients and the study population was medical records of DM patients admitted to Adama Hospital Medical College. A total of 200 medical records of patients in AHMC medical ward were used to extract patients’ medical information concerning DM and associated factors. Moreover, DM-related pretested semi-structured questionnaires were developed and administered to 200 active DM patients following their treatment during December 2018 of data collection.

Results:

The proportion of diagnosed acute complications of DM among patients in this study was 146(73%) while 54(27%) did not present acute complication of DM. The history of acute complication associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) accounted for 133(66.5%) while hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) was 21(10.5%) but 46(23%) did show neither DKA nor HHS. From this study of clinical record, the proportion of acute complication of DM with DKA was higher among type I DM patients than type II patients. However, the proportion of HHS was relatively low in type I DM and high in type II DM patients.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of acute complications of DM was 146(73%) and 67(85.9%) and 79(64.8%) in type I and type II DM, respectively. Moreover, the proportion of acute complication of DM with DKA was higher among type I DM patients than type II patients. Strengthening of health education both at health facilities and general population is important.
Renoprotective Effects of Teneligliptin
Authors: Agrawal Prabhat , Gautam Ashish , Jain Apoorva , Pursnani Nikhil , S Manjula , M Krishna Kumar
Published: March 2021

Aim:

The aim of this study was to validate the potential of teneligliptin in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with renal impairment and to evaluate its effect on renal parameters in Indian subjects.

Patients and Methods:

The prospective observational study included 86 subjects aged >40 years with suboptimal control of T2DM (HbA1c >7.5). The demographic details of the selected subjects were recorded. The patients were continued on existing oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) and antihypertensives. The following clinical and anthropometric parameters were measured at baseline, 4 months, 8 months, and 12 months during the treatment using 20 mg of teneligliptin per day: HbA1c, eGFRs, UACR, FBG, and PPBG levels. Comparisons of anthropometric and laboratory parameters were carried out using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t test for normal data, Kruskal–Wallis for nonnormal data, and chi-square test for counts data.

Results:

The mean age of the subjects was 54.28 ± 6.8 years and the male-to-female ratio noted was 1:0.65. The mean values of FBG (mg/dL ± SD) at 4, 8, and 12 months were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001, 117.12 ± 30.51, 109.69 ± 43.66, and 113.16 ± 56.93, respectively). t test carried out for PPBG indicated that the levels at respective intervals were significantly reduced as opposed to baseline (P < 0.05). The difference in HbA1c (%) across baseline, 4, 8, and 12 months was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001) and the mean levels noted were 8.09 ± 2.26, 7.57 ± 1.84, 6.95 ± 1.80, and 6.46 ± 1.81, respectively. The difference in UACR across different intervals was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001) and the corresponding mean UACRs (mg/g ± SD) noted were 417.21 ± 182.87, 291.82 ± 98.30, 296.84 ± 109.48 and 284.18 ± 103.26.

Conclusion:

Teneligliptin monotherapy is well tolerated with a persistent reduction in HbA1C and significant improvement in renal function.
Frequency and Predictors of Hypoglycemia in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ibrahim Nesma Ali
Published: March 2021

Background:

Hypoglycemia presents a barrier to optimum diabetes management; however, data are limited on the frequency of hypoglycemia incidents outside of clinical trials.

Aim:

The aim of the present study was to investigate the frequency of self-reported hypoglycemic events in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to define factors that predict a higher risk of hypoglycemia.

Materials and Methods:

A sample of 1500 patients with T2DM were recruited in this prospective, observational study, selected at random from a validated community population, attending the outpatient clinic of diabetes, Ain Shams University Specialized Hospital. Eligible patients were followed up for 12 months and were instructed on the use of a diary to record hypoglycemic events. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to identify potential predictors of hypoglycemia.

Results:

Of a total of 1347 patients with data available for the present analysis, 583(43.28%) had experienced hypoglycemia. The participants experienced a total of 3816 hypoglycemic events during the study period, which amounts to 2.83 events (95% CI 2.74, 2.92) per patient per year. Of those who experienced hypoglycemia, 13(2.23%) recorded severe events and 125(21.44%) had evidence of impaired awareness of hypoglycemia. Patients who had experienced hypoglycemic events were elder and have higher body mass index, longer duration of diabetes, and higher HbA1c than those who had not experienced hypoglycemia, the difference was significant (all P < 0.05). Also, they were on insulin therapy, have diabetes complications, used to have irregular meals, and do not practicing exercise when compared with patients who had not experienced hypoglycemia (all P < 0.05). No significant difference was found based on gender (P = 0.25) between patients who experienced and those had not experienced hypoglycemia.

Conclusions:

Hypoglycemia is a frequent adverse effect in patients with T2DM, and particular attention is warranted in elder, obese patients with poor control and longer duration of diabetes. The presence of diabetes complications, insulin therapy, and unhealthy life style are also predictors of hypoglycemia.