bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Implementation of a Hybrid Wireless Sensor Network of Low Power and Long Range for Urban Environments
Authors: Bravo-Arrabal Juan , Fernandez-Lozano J. J. , Serón Javier , Gomez-Ruiz Jose Antonio , García-Cerezo Alfonso
Published: January 2021

The urban population, worldwide, is growing exponentially and with it the demand for information on pollution levels, vehicle traffic, or available parking, giving rise to citizens connected to their environment. This article presents an experimental long range (LoRa) and low power consumption network, with a combination of static and mobile wireless sensors (hybrid architecture) to tune and validate concentrator placement, to obtain a large coverage in an urban environment. A mobile node has been used, carrying a gateway and various sensors. The Activation By Personalization (ABP) mode has been used, justified for urban applications requiring multicasting. This allows to compare the coverage of each static gateway, being able to make practical decisions about its location. With this methodology, it has been possible to provide service to the city of Malaga, through a single concentrator node. The information acquired is synchronized in an external database, to monitor the data in real time, being able to geolocate the dataframes through web mapping services. This work presents the development and implementation of a hybrid wireless sensor network of long range and low power, configured and tuned to achieve efficient performance in a mid-size city, and tested in experiments in a real urban environment.
Internet of Everything (IoE) Taxonomies: A Survey and a Novel Knowledge-Based Taxonomy
Authors: Farias da Costa Viviane Cunha , Oliveira Luiz , de Souza Jano
Published: January 2021

The paradigm of the Internet of everything (IoE) is advancing toward enriching people’s lives by adding value to the Internet of things (IoT), with connections among people, processes, data, and things. This paper provides a survey of the literature on IoE research, highlighting concerns in terms of intelligence services and knowledge creation. The significant contributions of this study are as follows: (1) a systematic literature review of IoE taxonomies (including IoT); (2) development of a taxonomy to guide the identification of critical knowledge in IoE applications, an in-depth classification of IoE enablers (sensors and actuators); (3) validation of the defined taxonomy with 50 IoE applications; and (4) identification of issues and challenges in existing IoE applications (using the defined taxonomy) with regard to insights about knowledge processes. To the best of our knowledge, and taking into consideration the 76 other taxonomies compared, this present work represents the most comprehensive taxonomy that provides the orchestration of intelligence in network connections concerning knowledge processes, type of IoE enablers, observation characteristics, and technological capabilities in IoE applications.
Analysis of the Single Frequency Network Gain in Digital Audio Broadcasting Networks
Authors: Staniec Kamil
Published: January 2021

The single frequency network (SFN) is a popular solution in modern digital audio and television system networks for extending effective coverage, compared to its traditional single-transmitter counterpart. As benefits of this configuration appear to be obvious, this paper focuses on the exact analysis of so-called SFN gain—a quantitative effect of advantage in terms of the received signal strength. The investigations cover a statistical analysis of SFN gain values, obtained by means of computer simulations, with respect to the factors influencing the coverage, i.e., the protection level, the reception mode (fixed, portable, mobile), and the receiver location (outdoor, indoor). The analyses conclude with an observation that the most noteworthy contribution of the SFN gain is observed on the far edges of the networks, and the least one close to the transmitters. It is also observed that the highest values of the SFN gain can be expected in the fixed mode, while the protection level has the lowest impact.
Measuring the Socioeconomic Development of Selected Balkan Countries and Hungary: A Comparative Analysis for Sustainable Growth
Authors: Soreg Krisztina , Bermudez-Gonzalez Guillermo
Published: January 2021

The present research aimed to provide an extensive comparative analysis regarding the socioeconomic development paths of three selected Balkan countries—Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania—as well as Hungary, which was originally classified as a member of the Visegrad Four group in Central and Eastern Europe. In our paper, the Balkan states were analyzed along with Hungary, as it might be observed that since the 2008–2009 economic crisis, the latter’s economy has been increasingly diverging from that of the Visegrad club in several aspects. After having undergone a protracted transition crisis escalated by the collapse of the Soviet Union, the micro-region has exhibited a truly contradictious development trajectory including periods of relatively faster economic-growth-based catching up and significant fallback stages driven by numerous endogenous or exogenous shocks. The study assumed that the region’s most crucial vulnerability is the relatively high dependence on Foreign Direct Investment that contributes to the fluctuating nature of economic growth, and also, it might be viewed as an obstacle to long-term sustainable development. In the frames of the research, the authors present an alternative comparative method for specifying the actual level of economic development of the defined country group from economic, political and social perspectives, relying on the most recent data published by international organizations, NGOs and thinktanks. As a result, an aggregate ranking was established for the four countries based on 21 individual indices, taking into consideration their dependent market economy attributes and, also, unique patterns of economic growth. Furthermore, the study also provides a dynamic evaluation of the trends concerning the narrow approach of using ten indices for a protracted period, investigating whether Hungary has been converging, diverging or stagnating with respect to the three Visegrad and Balkan economies. To what extent are Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary and Romania still affected by the historical burden of the former regime, and what perspectives might they have for realizing convergence in the near future to the more developed economies?
Role of the Leisure Attributes of Shared Bicycles in Promoting Leisure Benefits and Quality of Life
Authors: Park Sunwoo , Yoon Hyejin , Koo Chulmo , Lee Won Seok
Published: January 2021

Given that the use of shared economic resources has increased for leisure, the main goal of the present study is to investigate the influence of the leisure attributes of the sharing economy on leisure benefits and quality of life. For this, the related sub-factors were derived for the verification of the sharing economy’s leisure attributes. Next, the sub-components of the concept were integrated and analyzed using a second confirmatory factor analysis. The results of a study using the structural equation model demonstrated that the sharing economy’s leisure attributes statistically affect the four levels of leisure benefits (i.e., social, physical, personal, and psychological benefits). We also identified two (social and psychological benefits) out of four leisure benefits that ultimately affect quality of life. This study is meaningful in that it elucidates the relationships between the sharing economy’s leisure attributes, leisure benefits, and quality of life.
Development of Methods for the Strategic Management of Web Projects
Authors: Fedushko Solomiia , Peráček Tomáš , Syerov Yuriy , Trach Olha
Published: January 2021

In this article, we have explored methods for the strategic management of web projects. By introducing a long-term web project development strategy into the operation of a web project, mechanisms can be developed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the web project. An important factor is to develop a strategy taking into account all possible crisis situations and ways out of these situations. The authors analyzed and simulated the web project structure, working out methods of web project strategy realization and implementation in a crisis situation. Additionally, in this article, the authors have presented the model for the strategic map of the balanced scorecard of a web project. The authors tested the developed methods on six web projects of university departments. The received results confirmed the appropriateness and necessity of the development and implementation of methods of the strategic management of web projects.
Environmental, Social, Governance Activities and Firm Performance: Evidence from China
Authors: Ruan Lei , Liu Heng
Published: January 2021

Increasingly noticeable environmental and risk problems have made more and more companies and regulatory agencies realize the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities. However, on the question that whether ESG activities have promoted or reduced firm performance, there is still no consensus. Especially for China, a representative country in emerging markets whose corporate ESG activities are still in their infancy and related systems and regulatory measures not complete, its theoretical and practical circles more urgently need to know an accurate answer to this question. Therefore, this article takes China’s Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies that have ESG rating data from 2015 to 2019 as samples and finds that corporate ESG activities have a significantly negative impact on firm performance. Further research finds that compared with state-owned enterprises and environmentally sensitive enterprises, non-state-owned enterprises and non-environmentally sensitive enterprises provide stronger evidence to support the above conclusions.
Sustainable Smart City—Opening a Black Box
Authors: Treude Mona
Published: January 2021

Cities are becoming digital and are aiming to be sustainable. How they are combining the two is not always apparent from the outside. What we need is a look from inside. In recent years, cities have increasingly called themselves Smart City. This can mean different things, but generally includes a look towards new digital technologies and claim that a Smart City has various advantages for its citizens, roughly in line with the demands of sustainable development. A city can be seen as smart in a narrow sense, technology wise, sustainable or smart and sustainable. Current city rankings, which often evaluate and classify cities in terms of the target dimensions “smart” and “sustainable”, certify that some cities are both. In its most established academic definitions, the Smart City also serves both to improve the quality of life of its citizens and to promote sustainable development. Some cities have obviously managed to combine the two. The question that arises is as follows: What are the underlying processes towards a sustainable Smart City and are cities really using smart tools to make themselves sustainable in the sense of the 2015 United Nations Sustainability Goal 11? This question is to be answered by a method that has not yet been applied in research on cities and smart cities: the innovation biography. Based on evolutionary economics, the innovation biography approaches the process towards a Smart City as an innovation process. It will highlight which actors are involved, how knowledge is shared among them, what form citizen participation processes take and whether the use of digital and smart services within a Smart City leads to a more sustainable city. Such a process-oriented method should show, among other things, to what extent and when sustainability-relevant motives play a role and which actors and citizens are involved in the process at all.
Sustainability in ElectroKinetic Remediation Processes: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Vocciante Marco , Dovì Vincenzo , Ferro Sergio
Published: January 2021

In recent years, the development of suitable technologies for the remediation of environmental contaminations has attracted considerable attention. Among these, electrochemical approaches have gained prominence thanks to the many possible applications and their proven effectiveness. This is particularly evident in the case of inorganic/ionic contaminants, which are not subject to natural attenuation (biological degradation) and are difficult to treat adequately with conventional methods. The purpose of this contribution is to present a critical overview of electrokinetic remediation with particular attention on the sustainability of the various applications. The basis of technology will be briefly mentioned, together with the phenomena that occur in the soil and how that will allow its effectiveness. The main critical issues related to this approach will then be presented, highlighting the problems in terms of sustainability, and discussing some possible solutions to reduce the environmental impact and increase the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of this promising technology.
Preliminary Analysis of Material Degradation Processes in Half-Timbered Walls with Earth Infill in Spain
Authors: Hueto Escobar Alicia , Mileto Camilla , Vegas López-Manzanares Fernando , Diodato Maria
Published: January 2021

This analysis of the material degradation processes most commonly found in half-timbered walls with earth infill in Spain is part of a much broader line of research aiming to analyze, catalogue and understand their constructive techniques, state of conservation, and transformation in order to propose conservation guidelines. Systematic data collection and statistical analysis of material damage for 268 half-timbered walls with earth infill have made it possible to identify the most common degradation processes. The effect of these processes on this type of technique, as well as the relationship between them and any possible conditions contributing to their frequency, were examined. Almost half of the sample studied presents some type of material degradation, most frequently surface erosion, while the presence of vegetation is the least common pathology. Any future decisions about the most suitable maintenance and conservation actions should be based on the conclusions reached here concerning the frequency and scope of these degradation phenomena.
Monitoring and Progress in the Implementation of the Global Plan of Action on Animal Genetic Resources
Authors: Cao Jennifer , Baumung Roswitha , Boettcher Paul , Scherf Beate , Besbes Badi , Leroy Gregoire
Published: January 2021

Animal genetic resources are critical to livestock productivity and adaptability, facilitate resilience to climate change, and are a key contributor to food security and livelihoods around the world. The Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources (Global Plan), consisting of four Strategic Priority Areas (SPAs: Characterization; Sustainable use; Conservation; Policy), provides a framework to guide countries and other stakeholders on actions to improve the management of animal genetic resources. Assessing, reporting and monitoring the progress and implementation of the Global Plan are critical processes for understanding global commitments made to enhance livestock genetic diversity. In this study, three rounds of reporting (2012, 2014, and 2019) from Member Nations of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations were quantitatively analyzed to gain insight into the progress and implementation of the Global Plan by grouping questionnaires responses into quantitative indicator scores. Variations were found in indicator scores across SPAs, year, and regions, as well as within regions. Countries from North America and Europe and the Caucasus reported higher scores, while most BRICs countries (Brazil, India, China, South Africa) had high implementation scores relative to other countries in the same region. A significant positive correlation was observed between mean implementation scores in 2019 and GDP per capita (r = 0.456). Countries reporting higher implementation of in situ conservation also indicated higher proportions of breeds at risk. Significant progress was reported over the years for three of the four SPAs; SPA3 (conservation) was not found to have significantly improved. Despite the gains that have been made since 2012 in management of animal genetic resources, much remains to be done. The population status of nearly 60% of breeds is unknown while almost three quarters of breeds of known status are at risk of extinction. Efforts must continue to improve management of livestock genetic diversity, with further investments and development of approaches that support socio-economic viability of local genetic resources.
Key Competencies for Design in a Circular Economy: Exploring Gaps in Design Knowledge and Skills for a Circular Economy
Authors: Sumter Deborah , de Koning Jotte , Bakker Conny , Balkenende Ruud
Published: January 2021

In a recent study, we identified seven key circular competencies for design: (1) Design for Multiple Use Cycles, (2) Design for Recovery, (3) Circular Impact Assessment, (4) Circular Business Models, (5) Circular User Engagement, (6) Circular Economy Collaboration, and (7) Circular Economy Communication. These were derived from small-scale studies with designers working in the Netherlands. We set out to assess to what extent this set of seven competencies is recognized by an international group of designers and to evaluate whether any competencies are missing. We used an online survey to collect data from 128 respondents from 25 countries working on circular economy projects. The survey results showed that respondents use and have expertise in all seven competencies and they stressed the practical importance of two new competencies: Circular Systems Thinking and Circular Materials and Manufacturing. The resulting set of nine key competencies is the first internationally verified, coherent set of key circular economy competencies for design. This set will strengthen the pedagogical base of design for a circular economy and will guide the development of circular design methodology.
The Impact of Social and Cultural Norms, Government Programs and Digitalization as Entrepreneurial Environment Factors on Job and Career Satisfaction of Freelancers
Authors: Huđek Ivona , Tominc Polona , Širec Karin
Published: January 2021

At the end of the last century, digital technology emergence enabled millions of people to compete globally by remotely offering their knowledge and skills. In addition, business processes are becoming fragmented into smaller components, so-called short-term projects. These work arrangements are often carried out by so-called independent professionals (contractors), better known as freelancers. A literature review has shown that the research topic of freelancing from an entrepreneurial perspective is relatively new and has its assumptions and gaps. Different stakeholders and institutions connect, mediate and manage the services of the entrepreneurial ecosystem to support entrepreneurs. As freelancers belong to the self-employed entrepreneurial category, they are engaged in business activities and need support from their environment. To contribute to this topic, we have analyzed the relationships between freelancers’ job and career satisfaction, digitalization and entrepreneurial ecosystem factors, with the aim of making policy recommendations. Regarding the entrepreneurial environment, we analyzed the cultural and social norms and government programs that provide support, based on the measurement instrument, developed in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) research. We surveyed 200 freelancers (respondents) in Slovenia. Using factor analysis and structural equation modelling, the empirical results suggest that digitalization and cultural and social norms are significant factors that promote the success of new careers as freelancers in terms of job and career satisfaction. The results show that both positively influence job and career satisfaction, while government programs indirectly influence the job and career satisfaction of freelancers. This explains how the entrepreneurial ecosystem, plays a special role in supporting freelancers on their career path.
Analysis of Tourist Systems Predictive Models Applied to Growing Sun and Beach Tourist Destination
Authors: Ruiz Palacios Miguel Angel , Pereira Texeira de Oliveira Cristiana , Serrano González José , Saénz Flores Soledad
Published: January 2021

This study aims to present a new diagnosis model of Sun and beach destinations, we analyzed a set of explanatory theories about the tourism system, because current models do not reflect the real dynamics of an emerging tourist destination. We create a new predictive model so it served us to be used as a diagnostic method for the tourism system. Ancon district is a coastal town of Peru, it is the second-largest and oldest of Metropolitan Lima district. The study analyzed all tourist attractions and local resources including reserved zone Lomas de Ancón, with 10,962 hectares. It used a qualitative method and its design is grounded theory and phenomenological. The research covers the period from May 2018 to March 2019, where it was possible to appreciate the high tourist demand and wild flora and fauna of the Lomas de Ancón in its two seasons: winter season (2018) and summer 2019 (dry season). The study concludes that the new analysis model allows us identifying and understanding the dynamic and potential of sun and beach tourist destinations in the growth phase. The Ancón district has resources and attractions that would allow it to develop new tourist products and diversify the local tourist offer.
Design and Optimization of a Fuzzy Logic System for Academic Performance Prediction
Authors: Rojas Juan A. , Espitia Helbert E. , Bejarano Lilian A.
Published: January 2021

Currently, in Colombia, different problems in education exist; one of them is the inconvenience in tracing and controlling the learning trajectories that decide the topics taught in the country’s educational institutions. This work aims to implement a logic-based system that allows teachers and educational institutions to carry out a continuous monitoring process of students’ academic performance, facilitating early corrections of errors or failures in teaching methods, to promote educational support spaces within the educational institution.
Measuring Online Destination Image, Satisfaction, and Loyalty: Evidence from Barcelona Districts
Authors: Marine-Roig Estela
Published: January 2021

The relationships between destination image and tourist satisfaction and loyalty have been studied extensively through surveys. This study aims to measure these constructs through big data analytics by going one step further in a line of research undertaken 8 years ago. The data source is content generated by travelers and shared on social media regarding the 10 districts of the city of Barcelona (Catalonia): more than 750,000 online travel reviews (OTRs) hosted on the Airbnb platform. This study also explores a relationship demonstrated by numerous researchers through surveys: the impact of destination image on tourist loyalty through satisfaction. However, the results are not satisfactory due to the great weight of the lodging price variable that unbalances the relationship. For example, the first district in the ranking of cognitive image categories is also the first in the ranking of average scores and of positive feelings and moods. However, the last two districts in the ranking of cognitive categories are the first in the rankings of satisfaction, positive recommendations, and cheaper prices. Additionally, the findings show that the location of the accommodation significantly determines the theme of the OTR narrative. Moreover, the results confirm previous studies on the exaggerated positivity of peer-to-peer accommodation scores: only 0.92% of 15,625 rated properties had negative overall scores.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococci and Macrococci at the Interface of Human and Animal Health
Authors: Becker Karsten
Published: January 2021

The global impact of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clonal lineages on human and animal health continues, even considering the decreasing MRSA rates in some parts of the world [...]
Antiviral Compounds for Blocking Arboviral Transmission in Mosquitoes
Authors: Dong Shengzhang , Dimopoulos George
Published: January 2021

Mosquito-borne arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) such as the dengue virus (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) are important human pathogens that are responsible for significant global morbidity and mortality. The recent emergence and re-emergence of mosquito-borne viral diseases (MBVDs) highlight the urgent need for safe and effective vaccines, therapeutics, and vector-control approaches to prevent MBVD outbreaks. In nature, arboviruses circulate between vertebrate hosts and arthropod vectors; therefore, disrupting the virus lifecycle in mosquitoes is a major approach for combating MBVDs. Several strategies were proposed to render mosquitoes that are refractory to arboviral infection, for example, those involving the generation of genetically modified mosquitoes or infection with the symbiotic bacterium Wolbachia. Due to the recent development of high-throughput screening methods, an increasing number of drugs with inhibitory effects on mosquito-borne arboviruses in mammalian cells were identified. These antivirals are useful resources that can impede the circulation of arboviruses between arthropods and humans by either rendering viruses more vulnerable in humans or suppressing viral infection by reducing the expression of host factors in mosquitoes. In this review, we summarize recent advances in small-molecule antiarboviral drugs in mammalian and mosquito cells, and discuss how to use these antivirals to block the transmission of MBVDs.
Investigating Hydrological Variability in the Wuding River Basin: Implications for Water Resources Management under the Water–Human-Coupled Environment
Authors: Dang Chiheng , Zhang Hongbo , Singh Vijay P. , Yu Yinghao , Shao Shuting
Published: January 2021

Understanding and quantifying changes in hydrological systems due to human interference are critical for the implementation of adaptive management of global water resources in the changing environment. To explore the implications of hydrological variations for water resources management, the Wuding River Basin (WRB) in the Loess Plateau, China, was selected as a case study. Based on the Budyko-type equation with a time-varying parameter n, a human-induced water–energy balance (HWEB) model was proposed to investigate the hydrological variability in the WRB. The investigation showed that runoff continuously reduced by 0.424 mm/a during 1975–2010, with weakly reducing precipitation and increasing groundwater exploitation causing a decrease in groundwater storage at a rate of 1.07 mm/a, and actual evapotranspiration accounting for more than 90% of precipitation having an insignificantly decreasing trend with a rate of 0.53 mm/a under climate change (decrease) and human impact (increase). Attribution analysis indicated that human-induced underlying surface condition change played a dominant role in runoff reduction by driving an increase in actual evapotranspiration, and that mainly impacted the overall decrease in runoff compounded by climate change during the entire period. It is suggested that reducing the watershed evapotranspiration and controlling groundwater exploitation should receive greater attention in future basin management.
Soil Conservation Service Curve Number (SCS-CN) Method: Current Applications, Remaining Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Soulis Konstantinos X.
Published: January 2021

Predicting runoff in ungauged or poorly gauged watersheds is one of the key problems in applied hydrology [...]
ROLE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE IN THE FORMATION OF PUBLIC SPACES OF A MODERN CITY
Authors: Yarmosh T. , Babaeva M.
Published: January 2021

Public spaces are urban environments that local residents can use at any time. Public spaces include such districts and parts of the city in which the main part of people's lives is concentrated: squares, recreational areas, squares, parks, sports grounds, streets, boulevards and coastal areas. The article examines the role of landscape architecture in the process of forming public spaces, characterizes the features and basic principles of designing public areas: interaction with the environment, structuring, optimization, continuity and harmonization. As a result of the work on the article, the rich theoretical and practical experience of domestic urban planning is analyzed and summarized. On the example of several cities, the experience of reconstruction and design of public spaces is analyzed, priority directions in the development of projects for the improvement of the territory are identified. This problem is relevant in modern landscape architecture, since now in many cities there is a need to create and equip recreational zones in the urban environment. In the near future, an innovative and strategic approach will be developed in the design of public spaces in Russian cities, combining art, science and technology in landscape design. The design principles listed in the article are reflected in the master plans of most cities in Russia, due to which the individual and unique appearance of each city is formed.
Patiromer and Spironolactone in Resistant Hypertension and Advanced CKD: Analysis of the Randomized AMBER Trial
Authors: Agarwal Rajiv , Rossignol Patrick , Budden Jeffrey , Mayo Martha R. , Arthur Susan , Williams Bryan , White William B.
Published: January 2021

Background

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists reduce mortality in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and have become a standard of care in those with resistant hypertension (rHTN). Yet, their use is limited among patients with CKD, primarily due to hyperkalemia.

Methods

AMBER was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study that reported that the use of the potassium-binding drug patiromer allowed a more persistent use of spironolactone in patients with CKD and rHTN. In this report, we compare the safety and efficacy of patiromer in advanced CKD as a prespecified analysis.

Results

Of the 295 patients randomized, 66 fell into the eGFR 25 to <30 subgroup. In this subgroup, persistent use of spironolactone was seen in 19 of 34 (56%) in the placebo group and 27 of 32 (84%) in the patiromer group (absolute difference 29%; P<0.02). In the eGFR 30–45 subgroup, persistent use of spironolactone was seen in 79 of 114 (69%) in the placebo group and 99 of 115 (86%) in the patiromer group (absolute difference 17%; P=0.003). There was no significant interaction between eGFR subgroups (P=0.46). Systolic BP reduction with spironolactone in the eGFR 25 to <30 subgroup was 6–7 mm Hg; in the eGFR 30–45 subgroup, it was 12–13 mm Hg. There was no significant interaction between eGFR subgroups on BP reduction (P=0.79). Similar proportions of patients reported adverse events (59% in the eGFR 25 to <30 subgroup; 53% in the eGFR 30–45 subgroup).

Conclusions

Patiromer facilitates the use of spironolactone among patients with rHTN, and its efficacy and safety are comparable in those with eGFR 25 to <30 and 30–45 ml/min per 1.73 m2.

Clinical Trial registry name and registration number:

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03071263
The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health: Psychosocial Conditions of Students with and without Special Educational Needs
Authors: Scheer David , Laubenstein Désirée
Published: January 2021

Given the pandemic-induced school lockdown in Germany in the spring of 2020, COVID-19 evi-dently had a negative impact on child and adolescent mental health and wellbeing. However, there is no evidence regarding the specific problems of students with special educational needs in emotional and behavioral disorders (E/BD) during or after the school lockdown. Thus, this study bridges the gap. A sample of 173 students across Germany was included in the analysis. The students were rated by their teachers in an online survey via a standardized teacher-report form for emotional and behavioral problems and competencies, as well as perceptions of inclu-sion. Several student- and teacher-level predictors were applied in a stepwise regression analy-sis. The results showed that the school lockdown marginally impacted E/BD, with small differ-ences between student groups. The strongest predicting variable was students’ psychosocial sit-uation. Hence, the psychosocial situation of students should be monitored by teachers and school psychologists to provide sufficient support during lockdown.
The microcirculation
Authors: Hendricks NE
Published: January 2021

The microcirculation is responsible for the transfer of oxygen from the red blood cells in the capillaries to the cells to meet cellular energy requirements, support functional activity and remove carbon dioxide and waste. The microcirculation also assists in the regulation of vascular tone, solute exchange, the production of hormones, the inflammatory response and haemostasis. The identification of the endothelial glycocalyx and the assessment of the effects of disease, drugs and fluids on the microcirculation is the subject of ongoing research.
Sugammadex
Authors: Mogane PN
Published: January 2021

There are a large number of publications which describe the use of cyclodextrins (CDs) in numerous fields, including biomedicine, cosmetics, food industry, wastewater remediation and catalysis. These drugs contain a number of glucose monomers in a ring, creating a cone shape: α (alpha), β (beta), and γ (gamma) cyclodextrins with 6, 7 and 8 glucose subunits respectively. With a hydrophobic interior and hydrophilic exterior, they can form complexes with hydrophobic compounds often conferring solubility and stability to other drugs. The inclusion compounds of cyclodextrins with hydrophobic molecules are able to penetrate body tissues; these can be used to release biologically active compounds under specific conditions.

Sugammadex is a unique, selective relaxant binding agent (SRBA) which reverses aminosteroid-induced neuromuscular blockade. It is an alternative to anticholinesterases in anaesthesia and allows use and reversal of rocuronium as a substitute for suxamethonium for rapid sequence induction (RSI).
Measuring the productivity of Iraqi researchers at Diyala University using the Pareto technique: patents as a model
Authors: جاسم عبدالله العزي سلام
Published: January 2021

The patent is one of the most important indicators by which research, development and technological innovation can be measured at the level of various institutions, including academic institutions. The aim of the research is to identify the productivity of Iraqi researchers at Diyala University for patents completed at the university since its founding in 1999 and until the month of July 6, 2020, including the most productive years and most productive researchers as well as the most productive scientific disciplines in them. The researcher used the analytical approach due to its suitability in preparing the research in terms of collecting and analyzing information. Barreto technique has been used as one of the measurements that shows the percentage of researchers ’productivity in the field of patents. The study found that the most productive scientific disciplines for patents are physical education and sports sciences with a rate of 26%, followed by engineering 17.87%, while the most productive researchers was for Mr. Muhannad Kamel Shaker as his productivity reached 12 patents and represented 16.4%.
Вибір оптимального типу штучної нейронної мережі для автоматизованих систем "розумного" будинку
Authors: Teslyuk V. M. , Kazarian A. G.
Published: January 2021

Розроблено метод вибору оптимального типу ШНМ, ідеєю якого є практичне використання декількох типів ШНМ, подальшого обчислення похибок роботи кожного типу з використанням ідентичних наборів даних для навчання ШНМ, що унеможливлює вплив на результати роботи алгоритму і специфіки даних у навчальній вибірці. Запропонований метод дає змогу визначити оптимальний тип ШНМ для керування побутовими приладами у будинку. Розглянуто особливості процесу розроблення програмного забезпечення, що дає змогу провести процеси навчання, випробування та отримати вихідні результати роботи алгоритму штучної нейронної мережі. Вибір штучної нейронної мережі використовують для автоматизації обчислення значень оптимальних температурних режимів у кімнатах будинку, налаштувань параметрів освітлювальних приладів та режимів роботи системи безпеки "розумного" будинку. Наведено результати дослідження взаємозв'язку між різними типами нейронних мереж, кількістю внутрішніх шарів штучної нейронної мережі і кількістю нейронів на кожному внутрішньому шарі та зміни похибки обчислень параметрів налаштувань відносно очікуваних результатів роботи. Вирішення кожної окремої поставленої задачі за допомогою систем "розумного" будинку потребує використання різних алгоритмів машинного навчання. Великі обсяги даних, що генеруються у системах "розумного" будинку, та різноманітність типів і форматів цих даних не дає змоги створити універсальний автоматизований механізм з використанням алгоритмів штучного інтелекту, який вирішував би проблеми безпеки, енергоефективності та підтримки комфортних умов проживання користувачів. Тому використання запропонованого методу вибору оптимального типу нейронної мережі, що найкраще підходить для вирішення кожної окремої задачі, забезпечує високі показники ефективності роботи систем "розумного" будинку з мінімальними значеннями похибки отриманих автоматизованих рішень порівняно з рішеннями, що прийняла людина.
Види та особливості формування соціально-економічних результатів розміщення велотренажерів з функцією підзарядки зовнішніх пристроїв на території вищих навчальних закладів
Authors: Vovk O. B. , Yemelyanov O. Yu. , Symak A. V. , Lesyk L. I.
Published: January 2021

Встановлено види та визначено особливості формування соціально-економічних результатів розміщення велотренажерів з функцією підзарядки зовнішніх пристроїв на території вищих навчальних закладів (ВНЗ). Виявлено, що основними видами таких результатів є: покращення стану здоров'я студентів, отримання студентами певної матеріальної вигоди, підвищення рівня привабливості ВНЗ серед потенційних абітурієнтів, покращення результатів навчального процесу, отримання ВНЗ певного фінансового зиску, економія енергії, покращення екології, поліпшення стану з утилізації зношених велосипедів. Встановлено, що кожен вид соціально-економічних результатів розміщення велотренажерів з функцією підзарядки зовнішніх пристроїв на території ВНЗ характеризується певним способом його формування, що, своєю чергою, зумовлює потребу у розробленні методологічного підходу до окремого оцінювання кожного з цих видів результатів. Виявлено існування альтернативних варіантів реалізації проектів розташування на території ВНЗ велотренажерів. До цих варіантів віднесено: придбання нового велотренажеру, придбання велотренажеру, переробленого зі зношеного велосипеду, самостійне виготовлення велотренажеру шляхом перероблення зношеного велосипеду. Запропоновано критерій вибору найкращої моделі велотренажера. Цим критерієм є мінімум середньорічних сумарних витрат на його придбання та експлуатацію. З'ясовано, що внаслідок порівняння двох альтернатив, а саме – придбання нового велотренажеру та велотренажеру, який виготовлено зі зношеного велосипеду, другий варіант є кращим, оскільки значення критеріального показника за ним є меншим. Проте, якщо порівнювати варіанти придбання велотренажеру та його виготовлення власними силами зі зношеного велосипеду, то за другою альтернативою величина критерію є меншою. Тому проект організації власного виробництва велотренажерів зі зношених велосипедів за наявності у ВНЗ відповідної матеріально-технічної бази є економічно доцільним. На підставі проведеного опитування студентів львівських ВНЗ виявлено їх зацікавленість у розміщенні велотренажерів з функцією підзарядки зовнішніх пристроїв на території цих вищих навчальних закладів. Виділено ризики, пов'язані із таким розміщенням.
TO THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF A. V. SHILOV, SCIENTIST, HISTORIAN, LOCAL LORE SPECIALIST (WITH THE FULL LIST OF HIS SCIENTIFIC PAPERS ATTACHED)
Authors: RYAZANOV SERGEY
Published: January 2021

The article examines the lifepath, teaching and scientific activities of A. V. Shilov, Candidate of historical sciences, associate professor of the Department of Ancient and Modern History of Russia at the Perm State National Research University. The article observes an assessment of his contribution to the study of the Ural region and to historical science in general. A complete list of his scientific works is provided as an appendix to the article.
Open Water Swimming Events, Social Capital, and Sociality
Authors: Greenwood Sophie , Fletcher Thomas
Published: January 2021

There is strong evidence to suggest that a connection exists between sports participation and the accumulation of social capital. Event research is also beginning to recognize that non-elite mass participation sport events can foster a sense of temporary casual sociality, community,
and camaraderie within the event space, and thus, create meaningful social impact for participants. Through analysis of data obtained via semistructured interviews and surveys conducted with open water swimmers and observations undertaken at open water swimming events, this article seeks to
contribute to the small (but growing) body of empirical and case specific research on the social capital potential of mass participation sports events. We adopt Putnam's notions of bonding and bridging social capital to interpret the social impact (if any) of open water swimming events on
participants. It is the first of its kind to explicitly explore the social capital potential of open water swimming events in the UK. In so being it will develop ideas of whether social connections are temporary, delimited by the duration of the event, or whether they can endure outside of
the event space as broader social networks and groups. We argue that events can facilitate meaningful social connections, and we analyze the durability of these social connections. Our data suggest that open water swimming events can facilitate casual social interactions with individuals from
outside of already bonded groups. However, evidence of bridging capital was less convincing, in that it tended to be associated with a certain type of event and where participants shared a particular identity.
From the Editors' Desk
Authors: Melchior Alan , Burack Cathy , Beneson Jodi
Published: January 2021

Thank you to those who submitted manuscripts and gave us the privilege of reviewing your work, prevailing through web glitches and delays. Though some manuscripts were not ready for publication at this time, all demonstrated the capacity of the field to engage in research that is multidisciplinary, draws on different theoretical frameworks, employs a variety of methodologies, and offers multiple lessons on the impact of and value to service-learning and community engagement. The mission of the International Journal of Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement is realized through the articles that make up this first issue.
From the Editors' Desk
Authors: Melchior Alan , Burack Cathy , Beneson Jodi
Published: January 2021

“We are a work in progress.” That seems like an apt description for the International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement (IARSLCE), sponsor of this journal, which is continuing to grow and build its identity, and for the Journal itself, whose second issue represents the continued exploration of the broad fields of service-learning and community engagement. As we have discovered through more than a decade of IARSLCE conference presentation and two years of Journal submissions, service-learning and community engagement encompass a broad array of educational and developmental activities, ranging from the improved teaching of math and science to creative strategies for addressing HIV/AIDS in urban communities.
Relational Learning With Indigenous Communities: Elders’ and Students’ Perspectives on Reconciling Indigenous Service-Learning
Authors: Kennedy Andrea , McGowan Katharine , Lindstrom Gabrielle , Cook Christian , Dean Yasmin , Stauch James , Barnabe Cheryl , Price Stephen
Published: January 2021

This study counterbalances Western-derived evidence by describing Elders’ and students’ perspectives of Indigenous service-learning through Indigenous research methodology. Data collection took place in a midsize Canadian university after an Indigenous service-learning public networking forum. The purposive sample consisted of three Indigenous elders and five Indigenous students. Immediately following the event, Elders participated in a focus group, and then students completed a survey. Qualitative themes were interpreted using conversational method and relational analysis. Elders called for the replacement of the term service-learning, re-rooting of the term Indigenous, and respect for the Elders’ roles and knowledges. Interconnected themes by Elders and students signaled a necessary shift from service-learning to relational learning. Such connections reveal the core purpose of relational learning with Indigenous communities as maintaining good relations through humility, respect, honesty, and reciprocity while responding to the interconnected priorities of the land, traditional ways, Elders, and common language. Findings signal decolonizing opportunities for relational learning with Indigenous communities.

Este estudio contrarresta la evidencia derivada de occidente al describir las perspectivas de Maestros ancianos (llamados “Elders” entre los pueblos indígenas norteamericanos) y aprendices sobre el aprendizaje-servicio indígena a través de la metodología de investigación indígena. La recolección de datos se llevó a cabo en una universidad canadiense de tamaño mediano tras la celebración de un foro de networking público de aprendizaje-servicio para indígenas. La muestra útil consistió en tres Maestros y cinco aprendices indígenas. Inmediatamente después del evento, los Maestros participaron en un focus group de una hora y los estudiantes completaron una encuesta. Los temas cualitativos se interpretaron utilizando el método conversacional y el análisis relacional. Los Maestros pidieron la sustitución del término aprendizaje-servicio, la recuperación del término indígena y el respeto hacia los conocimientos y el rol de los Maestros. Las conexiones entre los temas discutidos por Maestros y estudiantes demostraron la necesidad de un cambio del aprendizaje-servicio al aprendizaje relacional. Dichas conexiones revelan el propósito central del aprendizaje relacional con las comunidades indígenas, como mantener buenas relaciones a través de la humildad, el respeto, la honestidad y la reciprocidad mientras se responde a las prioridades interconectadas de la tierra, las formas tradicionales, los Maestros y el lenguaje común. Los hallazgos señalan oportunidades de descolonización para el aprendizaje relacional con comunidades indígenas.