bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review on the Effect from Steel Slag on the Growth of Microalgae
Authors: Yu Qing , Liu Tian-Ji , Cai Shuang , Wang Fu-Ping , Gao Di , Wang Xiao-Man , Wang Yi-Tong , Zeng Ya-Nan
Published: April 2021

As a by-product from the metallurgical industry, steel slag contains a large amount of metal elements. In many developing countries, the output of steel slag is huge and the comprehensive utilization rate is low, hence the development of a novel application method for steel slag is of great significance to increase its utilization rate to improve the environment. This paper reviewed the dissolution behavior of Fe, P, Ca and silicate of steel slag under seawater and acidic solutions as an application in the cultivation of different microalgae, such as diatoms, spirulina, and chlorella. This review clarifies that proper pre-treatment of steel slag can effectively increase the dissolved elements of steel slag in the solution and provide more nutrients for the growth of microalgae. Microalgae cultivated with steel slag as a nutrient can be used to produce biodiesel which has a very broad application prospects for cleaner production and environmental protection.
A Low-Cost System for Moisture Content Detection of Bagasse upon a Conveyor Belt with Multispectral Image and Various Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Nakawajana Natrapee , Lerdwattanakitti Patchara , Saechua Wanphut , Posom Jetsada , Saengprachatanarug Khwantri , Wongpichet Seree
Published: April 2021

This research aimed to propose an online system based on multispectral images for the real-time estimation of the moisture content (MC) of sugarcane bagasse. The system consisted of a conveyor belt, four halogen bulbs, and a multispectral camera. The MC models were developed using machine learning algorithms, i.e., multiple linear regression (MLR), principal component regression (PCR), artificial neural network (ANN), PCA-ANN, Gaussian process regression (GPR), PCA-GPR, random forest regression (RFR), and PCA-GPR. The models were developed using 150 samples (calibration set) meanwhile the remaining 50 samples were applied as a validation set. The comparison of all developed models showed that the PCA-RFR model achieved better detection with a higher accuracy of MC prediction. The PCA-RFR model showed the best results which were a coefficient of determination of prediction (r2) of 0.72, root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 11.82 wt%, and a ratio of the standard error of prediction to standard deviation (RPD) of 1.85. The results show that this technique was very useful for MC rapid screening of the sugarcane bagasse.
Toward Balancing the Pros and Cons of Spreading Olive Mill Wastewater in Irrigated Olive Orchards
Authors: Kurtz Markus Peter , Dag Arnon , Zipori Isaac , Laor Yael , Buchmann Christian , Saadi Ibrahim , Medina Shlomit , Raviv Michael , Zchori-Fein Einat , Schaumann Gabriele Ellen , Diehl Dörte
Published: April 2021

The controlled application of olive mill wastewater (OMW) as a by-product of the olive oil extraction process is widespread in olive oil-producing countries. Therefore, a sustainable approach necessarily targets the positive effects of soil resilience between successive annual applications to exclude possible accumulations of negative consequences. To investigate this, we applied 50, 100, 100 with tillage and 150 m3 OMW ha−1 y−1 for five consecutive seasons to an olive orchard in a semi-arid region and monitored various soil physicochemical and biological properties. OMW increased soil water content with concentration of total phenols, cations, and anions as well as various biological and soil organic matter indices. Soil hydrophobicity, as measured by water drop penetration time (WDPT), was found to be predominantly in the uppermost layer (0–3 and 3–10 cm). OMW positively affected soil biology, increased the activity and abundance of soil arthropods, and served as a food source for bacteria and fungi. Subsequent shallow tillage reduced the extent of OMW-induced changes and could provide a simple means of OMW dilution and effect minimization. Despite potentially higher leaching risks, an OMW dose of 50–100 m3 ha−1 applied every two years followed by tillage could be a cost-effective and feasible strategy for OMW recycling.
Carotenoid Extraction from Locally and Organically Produced Cereals Using Saponification Method
Authors: Hussain Abrar , Larsson Hans , Johansson Eva
Published: April 2021

Carotenoids are important phytochemicals contributing nutritional health benefits in the human diet, with a significant contribution from cereals as one of the major food component around the world. Different methods have been described and adopted for the extraction and isolation of carotenoid compounds. Saponification can be seen as an option for carotenoid extraction from cereals as it converts retinol esters to retinol and removes other abundant compounds such as triglycerides. Extraction of carotenoids content of locally adapted and organic cereals have been limitedly investigated and was, therefore, evaluated in the present study, with a specific aim to understand genotypic and local cultivation effects and interactions. Therefore, 17 diverse cereal genotypes of local origin were grown organically in four localities and evaluated for carotenoid content and composition by HPLC. The results showed a large variation in content and composition of carotenoids in locally adapted and organically grown cereal genotypes, with lutein as the dominating type in wheat and rye, while zeaxanthin was the dominating type in barley. High-level genotypes showed values (9.9 mg/kg of total carotenoids) similar to the highest values previously reported in specific types of wheat. The barley genotypes showed relatively high stability in carotenoids content within and between cultivation locations, while large interactions were found with the cultivation location for the rest of the genotypes, indicating their local adaptation. The local adaptation of the cereal genotypes evaluated contributes large opportunities for local production of high value, highly nutritious food products, while the direct value of these genotypes for conventional plant breeding for varieties performing similar over broad environmental ranges, are more limited.
Microbial Communities, Metabolites, Fermentation Quality and Aerobic Stability of Whole-Plant Corn Silage Collected from Family Farms in Desert Steppe of North China
Authors: Wang Chao , Sun Lin , Xu Haiwen , Na Na , Yin Guomei , Liu Sibo , Jiang Yun , Xue Yanlin
Published: April 2021

Whole-plant corn silages on family farms were sampled in Erdos (S1), Baotou (S2), Ulanqab (S3), and Hohhot (S4) in North China, after 300 d of ensiling. The microbial communities, metabolites, and aerobic stability were assessed. Lactobacillusbuchneri, Acinetobacter johnsonii, and unclassified Novosphingobium were present at greater abundances than others in S2 with greater bacterial diversity and metabolites. Lactobacillus buchneri, Lactobacillus parafarraginis, Lactobacillus kefiri, and unclassified Lactobacillus accounted for 84.5%, and 88.2%, and 98.3% of bacteria in S1, S3, and S4, respectively. The aerobic stability and fungal diversity were greater in S1 and S4 with greater abundances of unclassified Kazachstania, Kazachstania bulderi, Candida xylopsoci, unclassified Cladosporium, Rhizopus microspores, and Candida glabrata than other fungi. The abundances of unclassified Kazachstania in S2 and K. bulderi in S3 were 96.2% and 93.6%, respectively. The main bacterial species in S2 were L. buchneri, A. johnsonii, and unclassified Novosphingobium; Lactobacillus sp. dominated bacterial communities in S1, S3, and S4. The main fungal species in S1 and S4 were unclassified Kazachstania, K. bulderi, C. xylopsoci, unclassified Cladosporium, R. microspores, and C. glabrata; Kazachstania sp. dominated fungal communities in S2 and S3. The high bacterial diversity aided the accumulation of metabolites, and the broad fungal diversity improved the aerobic stability.
Continuum-Based Approach to Model Particulate Soil–Water Interaction: Model Validation and Insight into Internal Erosion
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed , Meguid Mohamed
Published: April 2021

Resolving the interaction between soil and water is critical to understanding a wide range of geotechnical applications. In cases when hydrodynamic forces are dominant and soil fluidization is expected, it is necessary to account for the microscale interactions between soil and water. Some of the existing models such as coupled Computational Fluid Dynamics–Discrete Element Method (CFD-DEM) can capture microscale interactions quite accurately. However, it is often computationally expensive and cannot be easily applied at a scale that would aid the design process. Contrastingly, continuum-based models such as the Two-Fluid Model (TFM) can be a computationally feasible and scalable alternative. In this study, we explored the potential of the TFM to simulate granular soil–water interactions. The model was validated by simulating the internal fluidization of a sand bed due to an upward water jet. Analogous to leakage from a pressurized pipe, the simulation was compared with the available experimental data to evaluate the model performance. The numerical results showed decent agreement with the experimental data in terms of excess pore water pressure, fluidization patterns, and physical deformations in violent flow regimes. Moreover, detailed soil characteristics such as particle size distribution could be implemented, which was previously considered a shortcoming of the model. Overall, the model’s performance indicates that TFM is a viable tool for the simulation of particulate soil–water mixtures.
Heaven and the Goodness of God
Authors: Walls Jerry L.
Published: April 2021

In this essay, I argue that we should take fully seriously the doctrine of heaven when dealing with the problem of evil in our world. The hope of heaven is integral to Christian theism so it cannot be neglected in any substantive discussion of the problem of evil. Indeed, heaven provides resources to respond to even the worst of evils and to fully redeem them in such a way that the victims of those evils can fully affirm the goodness of their lives. Anyone who achieves heaven will experience a good of such significance and value that the ultimate beauty and goodness of their life could not be questioned. The Christian doctrine of the afterlife also provides resources to make sense of ultimate accountability. The perpetrators of horrendous evil cannot escape and will be called to account for their actions. However, even those who have committed such evil evils can be fully transformed in such a way that they can be fully reconciled with their victims and heartily embraced by them. This shows the doctrine of heaven to be not only profoundly hopeful, but also starkly honest and realistic.
Correction: Alfano et al. A Review of Low-Cost Particulate Matter Sensors from the Developers’ Perspectives. Sensors 2020, 20, 6819
Authors: Alfano Brigida , Barretta Luigi , Del Giudice Antonio , De Vito Saverio , Di Francia Girolamo , Esposito Elena , Formisano Fabrizio , Massera Ettore , Miglietta Maria Lucia , Polichetti Tiziana
Published: April 2021

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
New Method for Analysis of the Temporomandibular Joint Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Iwaszenko Sebastian , Munk Jakub , Baron Stefan , Smoliński Adam
Published: April 2021

Modern dentistry commonly uses a variety of imaging methods to support diagnosis and treatment. Among them, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is particularly useful in presenting head structures, such as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The determination of the morphology of the joint is an important part of the diagnosis as well as the monitoring of the treatment results. It can be accomplished by measurement of the TMJ gap width at three selected places, taken at a specific cross-section. This study presents a new approach to these measurements. First, the CBCT images are denoised using curvilinear methods, and the volume of interest is determined. Then, the orientation of the vertical cross-section plane is computed based on segmented axial sections of the TMJ head. Finally, the cross-section plane is used to determine the standardized locations, at which the width of the gap between condyle and fossa is measured. The elaborated method was tested on selected TMJ CBCT scans with satisfactory results. The proposed solution lays the basis for the development of an autonomous method of TMJ index identification.
Design of an Optical Transparent Absorber and Defect Diagnostics Analysis Based on Near-Field Measurement
Authors: Lee In-Gon , Yoon Young-Joon , Choi Kwang-Sik , Hong Ic-Pyo
Published: April 2021

To reduce the electromagnetic wave interference caused by cavity resonance or electromagnetic wave leakage, herein, an optical transparent radar absorbing structure (RAS) was designed using transparent conductive oxides (TCOs) with a high optical transmittance and electrical conductivity, and a procedure was proposed for detecting possible defects in the fabrication and operation and for assessing the influence of the defects on the electromagnetic performance. To detect locally occurring defects in planar and three-dimensional absorbing structures, a measurement system based on an open-ended near-field antenna capable of producing small beam spots at a close distance was constructed. Moreover, the reflection characteristics of the transparent RAS were derived from a simplified multiple reflection equation, and the derived results were compared with the analysis results of an equivalent circuit model to predict the surface resistance of the TCO coating layer, based on which the presence of defects could be confirmed. By using the experimental results, the predicted surface resistance results of the coating layer and the results measured using a non-contact sheet resistance meter were compared and were found to correspond, thereby confirming the effectiveness of the proposed defect detection method.
Virtual Pseudonym-Changing and Dynamic Grouping Policy for Privacy Preservation in VANETs
Authors: Ullah Ikram , Shah Munam Ali , Khan Abid , Maple Carsten , Waheed Abdul
Published: April 2021

Location privacy is a critical problem in the vehicular communication networks. Vehicles broadcast their road status information to other entities in the network through beacon messages. The beacon message content consists of the vehicle ID, speed, direction, position, and other information. An adversary could use vehicle identity and positioning information to determine vehicle driver behavior and identity at different visited location spots. A pseudonym can be used instead of the vehicle ID to help in the vehicle location privacy. These pseudonyms should be changed in appropriate way to produce uncertainty for any adversary attempting to identify a vehicle at different locations. In the existing research literature, pseudonyms are changed during silent mode between neighbors. However, the use of a short silent period and the visibility of pseudonyms of direct neighbors provides a mechanism for an adversary to determine the identity of a target vehicle at specific locations. Moreover, privacy is provided to the driver, only within the RSU range; outside it, there is no privacy protection. In this research, we address the problem of location privacy in a highway scenario, where vehicles are traveling at high speeds with diverse traffic density. We propose a Dynamic Grouping and Virtual Pseudonym-Changing (DGVP) scheme for vehicle location privacy. Dynamic groups are formed based on similar status vehicles and cooperatively change pseudonyms. In the case of low traffic density, we use a virtual pseudonym update process. We formally present the model and specify the scheme through High-Level Petri Nets (HLPN). The simulation results indicate that the proposed method improves the anonymity set size and entropy, provides lower traceability, reduces impact on vehicular network applications, and has lower computation cost compared to existing research work.
Detection Method for Bolted Connection Looseness at Small Angles of Timber Structures based on Deep Learning
Authors: Yu Yabin , Liu Ying , Chen Jiawei , Jiang Dong , Zhuang Zilong , Wu Xiaoli
Published: April 2021

Bolted connections are widely used in timber structures. Bolt looseness is one of the most important factors leading to structural failure. At present, most of the detection methods for bolt looseness do not achieve a good balance between cost and accuracy. In this paper, the detection method of small angle of bolt loosening in a timber structure is studied using deep learning and machine vision technology. Firstly, three schemes are designed, and the recognition targets are the nut’s own specification number, rectangular mark, and circular mark, respectively. The Single Shot MultiBox Detector (SSD) algorithm is adopted to train the image datasets. The scheme with the smallest identification angle error is the one identifying round objects, of which the identification angle error is 0.38°. Then, the identification accuracy was further improved, and the minimum recognition angle reached 1°. Finally, the looseness in a four-bolted connection and an eight-bolted connection are tested, confirming the feasibility of this method when applied on multi-bolted connection, and realizing a low operating costing and high accuracy.
Clutter Subspace Characteristics-Aided Space-Time Adaptive Outlier Sample Selection Method
Authors: Fu Dongning , Liao Guisheng , Xu Jingwei
Published: April 2021

For statistic space-time adaptive processing (STAP), a critical issue is estimating the clutter covariance matrix (CCM). However, sufficient training samples are difficult to obtain that satisfy the independent and identically distributed (IID) condition. It is because of the realistic heterogeneous environment faced by airborne radar. Moreover, one should eliminate contaminated training samples before CCM estimation. Aiming at the problems of the computational complexity and susceptibility to the outlier of the traditional generalized inner product (GIP) method, a clutter subspace-based training sampling selecting method is proposed combined with specific distribution in the space-time plane of clutter spectrum. Theoretical analysis and simulation results verified the proposed method and indicate that the proposed method is easy to construct CCM and has lower computational complexity and sensitivity to outliers.
A Multi-Objective Optimal Power Flow Control of Electrical Transmission Networks Using Intelligent Meta-Heuristic Optimization Techniques
Authors: Diab Hatem , Abdelsalam Mahmoud , Abdelbary Alaa
Published: April 2021

Optimal power flow (OPF) is considered one of the most critical challenges that can substantially impact the sustainable performance of power systems. Solving the OPF problem reduces three essential items: operation costs, transmission losses, and voltage drops. An intelligent controller is needed to adjust the power system’s control parameters to solve this problem optimally. However, many constraints must be considered that make the design process of the OPF algorithm exceedingly tricky due to the increased number of limitations and control variables. This paper proposes a multi-objective intelligent control technique based on three different meta-heuristic optimization algorithms: multi-verse optimization (MVO), grasshopper optimization (GOA), and Harris hawks optimization (HHO) to solve the OPF problem. The proposed control techniques were validated by applying them to the IEEE-30 bus system under different operating conditions through MATLAB simulations. The proposed techniques were then compared with the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, which is very popular in the literature studying how to solving the OPF problem. The obtained results show that the proposed methods are more effective in solving the OPF problem when compared to the commonly used PSO algorithm. The proposed HHO, in particular, shows that it can form a reliable candidate in solving power systems’ optimization problems.
Occurrence of Ergot Alkaloids in Barley and Wheat from Algeria
Authors: Carbonell-Rozas Laura , Mahdjoubi Choukri Khelifa , Arroyo-Manzanares Natalia , García-Campaña Ana M. , Gámiz-Gracia Laura
Published: April 2021

The natural occurrence of six major ergot alkaloids, ergometrine, ergosine, ergotamine, ergocornine, ergokryptine and ergocristine, as well as their corresponding epimers, were investigated in 60 cereal samples (barley and wheat) from Algeria. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) and a QuEChERS extraction method were used for sample analysis. The results revealed that 12 out of 60 samples (20%) were contaminated with ergot alkaloids. Wheat was the most contaminated matrix, with an incidence of 26.7% (8 out of 30 samples). The concentration of total ergot alkaloids ranged from 17.8 to 53.9 µg/kg for barley and from 3.66 to 76.0 μg/kg for wheat samples. Ergosine, ergokryptine and ergocristine showed the highest incidences in wheat, while ergometrine was the most common ergot in barley.
Immune-Mediated Disease Flares or New-Onset Disease in 27 Subjects Following mRNA/DNA SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination
Authors: Watad Abdulla , De Marco Gabriele , Mahajna Hussein , Druyan Amit , Eltity Mailam , Hijazi Nizar , Haddad Amir , Elias Muna , Zisman Devy , Naffaa Mohammad E. , Brodavka Michal , Cohen Yael , Abu-Much Arsalan , Abu Elhija Muhanad , Bridgewood Charlie , Langevitz Pnina , McLorinan Joanna , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Marzo-Ortega Helena , Lidar Merav , Calabrese Cassandra , Calabrese Leonard , Vital Edward , Shoenfeld Yehuda , Amital Howard , McGonagle Dennis
Published: April 2021

Background: Infectious diseases and vaccines can occasionally cause new-onset or flare of immune-mediated diseases (IMDs). The adjuvanticity of the available SARS-CoV-2 vaccines is based on either TLR-7/8 or TLR-9 agonism, which is distinct from previous vaccines and is a common pathogenic mechanism in IMDs. Methods: We evaluated IMD flares or new disease onset within 28-days of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination at five large tertiary centres in countries with early vaccination adoption, three in Israel, one in UK, and one in USA. We assessed the pattern of disease expression in terms of autoimmune, autoinflammatory, or mixed disease phenotype and organ system affected. We also evaluated outcomes. Findings: 27 cases included 17 flares and 10 new onset IMDs. 23/27 received the BNT - 162b2 vaccine, 2/27 the mRNA-1273 and 2/27 the ChAdOx1 vaccines. The mean age was 54.4 ± 19.2 years and 55% of cases were female. Among the 27 cases, 21 (78%) had at least one underlying autoimmune/rheumatic disease prior the vaccination. Among those patients with a flare or activation, four episodes occurred after receiving the second-dose and in one patient they occurred both after the first and the second-dose. In those patients with a new onset disease, two occurred after the second-dose and in one patient occurred both after the first (new onset) and second-dose (flare). For either dose, IMDs occurred on average 4 days later. Of the cases, 20/27 (75%) were mild to moderate in severity. Over 80% of cases had excellent resolution of inflammatory features, mostly with the use of corticosteroid therapy. Other immune-mediated conditions included idiopathic pericarditis (n = 2), neurosarcoidosis with small fiber neuropathy (n = 1), demyelination (n = 1), and myasthenia gravis (n = 2). In 22 cases (81.5%), the insurgence of Adverse event following immunization (AEFI)/IMD could not be explained based on the drug received by the patient. In 23 cases (85.2%), AEFI development could not be explained based on the underlying disease/co-morbidities. Only in one case (3.7%), the timing window of the insurgence of the side effect was considered not compatible with the time from vaccine to flare. Interpretation: Despite the high population exposure in the regions served by these centers, IMDs flares or onset temporally-associated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination appear rare. Most are moderate in severity and responsive to therapy although some severe flares occurred. Funding: none.
Role of Inflammatory Cytokines in COVID-19 Patients: A Review on Molecular Mechanisms, Immune Functions, Immunopathology and Immunomodulatory Drugs to Counter Cytokine Storm
Authors: Rabaan Ali A. , Al-Ahmed Shamsah H. , Muhammad Javed , Khan Amjad , Sule Anupam A , Tirupathi Raghavendra , Mutair Abbas Al , Alhumaid Saad , Al-Omari Awad , Dhawan Manish , Tiwari Ruchi , Sharun Khan , Mohapatra Ranjan K. , Mitra Saikat , Bilal Muhammad , Alyami Salem A. , Emran Talha Bin , Moni Mohammad Ali , Dhama Kuldeep
Published: April 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a severe pandemic of the current century. The vicious tentacles of the disease have been disseminated worldwide with unknown complications and repercussions. Advanced COVID-19 syndrome is characterized by the uncontrolled and elevated release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and suppressed immunity, leading to the cytokine storm. The uncontrolled and dysregulated secretion of inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines is positively associated with the severity of the viral infection and mortality rate. The secretion of various pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6 leads to a hyperinflammatory response by recruiting macrophages, T and B cells in the lung alveolar cells. Moreover, it has been hypothesized that immune cells such as macrophages recruit inflammatory monocytes in the alveolar cells and allow the production of large amounts of cytokines in the alveoli, leading to a hyperinflammatory response in severely ill patients with COVID-19. This cascade of events may lead to multiple organ failure, acute respiratory distress, or pneumonia. Although the disease has a higher survival rate than other chronic diseases, the incidence of complications in the geriatric population are considerably high, with more systemic complications. This review sheds light on the pivotal roles played by various inflammatory markers in COVID-19-related complications. Different molecular pathways, such as the activation of JAK and JAK/STAT signaling are crucial in the progression of cytokine storm; hence, various mechanisms, immunological pathways, and functions of cytokines and other inflammatory markers have been discussed. A thorough understanding of cytokines’ molecular pathways and their activation procedures will add more insight into understanding immunopathology and designing appropriate drugs, therapies, and control measures to counter COVID-19. Recently, anti-inflammatory drugs and several antiviral drugs have been reported as effective therapeutic drug candidates to control hypercytokinemia or cytokine storm. Hence, the present review also discussed prospective anti-inflammatory and relevant immunomodulatory drugs currently in various trial phases and their possible implications.
Development of an Integrated Approach for the Assessment of Climate Change Impacts on the Hydro-Meteorological Characteristics of the Mahaweli River Basin, Sri Lanka
Authors: Selvarajah Hemakanth , Koike Toshio , Rasmy Mohamed , Tamakawa Katsunori , Yamamoto Akio , Kitsuregawa Masuru , Zhou Li
Published: April 2021

Climate change is increasingly sensed by nations vulnerable to water-related disasters, and governments are acting to mitigate disasters and achieve sustainable development. Uncertainties in General Circulation Models’ (GCM) rainfall projections and seamless long-term hydrological simulations incorporating warming effects are major scientific challenges in assessing climate change impacts at the basin scale. Therefore, the Data Integration and Analysis System (DIAS) of Japan and the Water Energy Budget-based Rainfall-Runoff-Inundation model (WEB-RRI) were utilized to develop an integrated approach, which was then applied to the Mahaweli River Basin (MRB) in Sri Lanka to investigate climate change impacts on its hydro-meteorological characteristics. The results for the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP8.5) scenario from four selected GCMs showed that, with an average temperature increase of 1.1 °C over the 20 years in future (2026 to 2045), the basin will experience more extreme rainfall (increase ranging 204 to 476 mm/year) and intense flood disasters and receive sufficient water in the future climate (inflow increases will range between 11 m3/s to 57 m3/s). The socio-economic damage due to flood inundation will also increase in the future climate. However, qualitatively, the overall trend of model responses showed an increasing pattern in future meteorological droughts whereas there is uncertainty in hydrological droughts. Policymakers can utilize these results and react to implementing soft or hard countermeasures for future policymaking. The approach can be implemented for climate change impact assessment of hydro-meteorology in any other river basin worldwide.
Assessing the Agricultural Water Savings–Economy–Ecological Environment System in an Arid Area of Northwest China Using a Water Rights Transaction Model
Authors: He Tianming , Wang Chunxia , Wang Zonglan , He Xinlin , Liu Hongguang , Zhang Jia
Published: April 2021

As water trading has become increasingly used to optimize the allocation of water resources, it has become necessary to transfer agricultural water allocations for economic development and ecological environmental uses by way of water rights trading. In this paper, we constructed an example water rights trading model in the arid oasis area of Shihezi Irrigation District (located in Northwest China), using the field investigation method and governmental water management decisions based on the systems theory of the agricultural water savings–economy–ecological environment. Furthermore, focusing on the added industrial value produced by trading water, the value of the ecological services provided by fresh water, the negative value of the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and the negative ecological value of reduced fertilizer application, a quantitative analysis was carried out using the Shihezi Irrigation District as an example. The results showed that under the most stringent water resource management plan and with the objective of returning land and reducing water, the irrigation area can save 52,504,500 m3 of surplus water from the agricultural sector, of which 49,879,300 m3 can be reallocated to the industrial sector and 2,625,200 m3 can be reallocated to the ecological sector. Using the water rights transaction method, this regional agricultural water saving could generate an industrial benefit equal to 35,024,300 yuan, an ecosystem service equal to 19,482,200 yuan, and an overall benefit equal to 54,420,500 yuan. The water rights trading model proposed in this paper for an arid oasis areas can provide a reference for other arid areas, helping to achieve the sustainable economic development of the economic and ecological environments in arid oasis areas through water rights trading.
Payment for medical care based on per capita standards: organization and accounting
Authors: Dombrovskaya Elena Nikolaevna
Published: April 2021

The article is devoted to the features of the organization and accounting of payment for medical care provided by medical institutions. The article highlights the trends in reforming the system of payment for medical care, which include the use of per capita payment based on the principles of Fund maintenance. The review of the current regulatory framework in the field of financial support of medical care was conducted. Based on the analysis of models of per capita financing of primary health care in the subjects of the Russian Federation, their insufficient focus on achieving final results is noted. The article deals with the organizational mechanism and accounting mechanism of payment for medical care in health care institutions.
Estrategias competitivas en empresas aseguradoras. Un estudio del municipio Cabimas - Venezuela
Authors: González Patricia Carolina
Published: April 2021

La investigación se plantea como objetivo describir las estrategias competitivas presentes en empresas aseguradoras del municipio Cabimas, del estado Zulia en Venezuela. La metodología empleada en la investigación fue de tipo descriptiva, con diseño un transeccional, no experimental y de campo. Se consideró como población las 7 empresas aseguradoras del municipio Cabimas, los sujetos informantes fueron 14, conformado por el personal calificado en los cargos de gerentes y coordinadores. La recolección de los datos se realizó a través de la aplicación directa de encuestas; la confiabilidad se calculó por el coeficiente Alpha Cronbach, cuyo resultado fue de 0,832, considerado de muy alta confiabilidad. Se empleó la estadística descriptiva mediante la distribución de frecuencias y la media aritmética. Se concluye que las estrategias competitivas poseen alta presencia; por cuanto las empresas aseguradoras bajo estudio están aplicando como estrategia una combinación de las estrategias de liderazgo en costo, diferenciación y enfoque.
Tipos de mantenimiento en las empresas prestatarias de equipos pesados a la industria petrolera
Authors: González Verónica
Published: April 2021

El presente artículo es un avance de una investigación de mayor alcance, en la cual se tiene como objetivo general analizar la gestión de mantenimiento en las empresas prestatarias de equipos pesados a la industria petrolera. En este avance se determinan los tipos de mantenimiento, desde una perspectiva metodológica descriptiva, bajo un diseño no experimental, de campo y transeccional. Se empleó un censo poblacional, para un total de veintitrés (23) sujetos de investigación a quienes se les aplico un cuestionario validado a través del juicio de expertos, con 0,99 de confiabilidad según el coeficiente Alfa Cronbach. Se concluye que todos los tipos de mantenimiento medidos arriban a la categoría de alta aplicación: correctivo, preventivo, predictivo y el proactivo, entrando todos en la interpretación de fortaleza para la gestión de mantenimiento.
Reducción de la viscosidad a través de un inductor térmico
Authors: Rodríguez Eglys
Published: April 2021

Se identificaron los elementos de la gestión de mantenimiento presentes en las unidades de bombeo mecánico convencionales. El estudio fue descriptivo, con diseño no experimental, transeccional, y de campo. La población quedó conformada por los gerentes y supervisores de las unidades de bombeo mecánico convencionales de Petróleos de Venezuela S. A. Para la recolección de datos se aplicó la encuesta, a través de un cuestionario contentivo de 25 ítems, utilizando una escala dicotómica. La validación se realizó mediante el juicio de expertos. La confiabilidad se calculó a través del coeficiente Kuder y Richardson, donde se obtuvo 0,93. El análisis de los datos se realizó mediante las frecuencias registradas. Se concluye del análisis realizado alta presencia en la gestión de mantenimiento analizada, señalando como elementos de la gestión la planificación, programación, ejecución, control y evaluación, es decir, el conjunto de acciones pertinentes para su cumplimiento.
Propuesta de estrategia académica basada en la deontología profesional para fortalecer las competencias axiológicas
Authors: Ortiz Yerardo , Vargas Deivid , Velásquez Luisedgar
Published: April 2021

La presente investigación surgió en vista de la necesidad de incorporar en el pensum de estudios de la carrera de Contaduría Pública de la Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Sociales de la Universidad de Carabobo, una materia sobre Deontología Profesional, con el fin de formar a los estudiantes de manera integral con sólidos conocimientos y valores para afrontar el campo de trabajo con profesionalidad. Se planteó como objetivo primordial diseñar una estrategia académica para fortalecer el dominio de conocimiento en Deontología Profesional a los estudiantes de Contaduría Pública de la Universidad de Carabobo. La investigación asumió el enfoque cuantitativo, enmarcado en un diseño de campo y carácter descriptivo, apoyada con referencias bibliográficas-documentales. Como población objetivo, se enfocó en los estudiantes del décimo semestre de Contaduría Pública de la FACES-UC. A partir de ello se pudo concluir que la mayoría de los estudiantes de la carrera de Contaduría Pública de la FACES - Universidad de Carabobo no manejan ni conocen que es la deontología profesional, así como los códigos deontológicos y su importancia dentro del ejercicio profesional de la Contaduría Pública, lo cual lo limita en la realización de un ejercicio responsable, justo y honesto.

ABSTRACT

This research arose in view of the need to incorporate in the curriculum of the Public Accounting career of the Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences of the University of Carabobo, a subject on Professional Deontology, in order to train students comprehensively with solid knowledge and values to face the field of work with professionalism. The main objective was to design an academic strategy to strengthen the domain of knowledge in Professional Deontology for students of Public Accounting at the University of Carabobo. The research assumed the quantitative approach, framed in a field design and descriptive character, supported by bibliographic-documentary references. As a target population, it focused on students in the tenth semester of Public Accounting at FACES-UC. From this, it was possible to conclude that most of the students of the Public Accounting career at FACES - University of Carabobo do not handle or know what professional deontology is, as well as the deontological codes and their importance within the professional practice of the Public Accounting, which limits it in carrying.
Analisis kualitas pembelajaran matematika pada penggunaan platform google classroom materi kombinatorika
Authors: Mustika Helma , Nadela Junita
Published: April 2021

Using the background of the problem is this research is the lack of knowledge of theachers and students about how use the application Google Classroom (GC) in learning activities, but there are still students do not have google account to log in the application GC. This research is a descriptive qualiative research. This study aims to determine how the quality of mathematics learning in the use of the application GC of combinatorics material for class XII IPA students of SMA Negeri 1 Pasir Penyu. The subjects of this study were selected based on the student’s daily test scores on combinatoric material using the application GC, where the subjects of this study included six students of class XII IPA 3 consisting of two students who had high test scores, two students who had mean test scores and two students who had low test scores. Data collection techniques are interview guidelines and questinnaire sheets. Furthermore, the data obtained will be analyzed based on indicators of the quality of mathematics learning. Data analyzed techniques in this study were data reduction, data presentation, and data verification. Based on the final results of the questionnaire sheets scores and the average posttest so that the average of both is 71,5 whit good categories, it can be concluded that the quality of mathematics learning in the use of the application GC of combinatorics material for class XII IPA 3 students of SMA Negeri 1 Pasir Penyu is good.
Avaliação de processos ecológicos de riachos em zonas ripárias da Floresta Atlântica
Authors:   , Silva Marcos Vinicius Dias da
Published: April 2021

Existem evidências de que a entrada de folhas de eucalipto nos riachos possa causar alterações nos processos do ecossistema, como a decomposição foliar por exemplo. Entretanto, não está claro como as folhas de eucalipto se relacionam com espécies vegetais nativas, e como interferem nas comunidades, e nas características de riachos. Além disso, como a perda de diversidade de espécies vegetais nativas, associadas a presença de eucalipto, afetaria no processo de decomposição nos riachos. Para responder essas perguntas nós elaboramos dois capítulos. Capítulo 1, A influência da qualidade do detrito na decomposição foliar de riachos da Floresta Atlântica. Nesse estudo avaliamos como a decomposição total e por microorganismos reage as mudanças na qualidade do detrito e no tipo de riacho. Testamos a hipótese de que a qualidade do detrito controla a taxa de decomposição foliar total e por microorganismos, independente das características dos riachos. Capítulo 2. Efeito da perda de diversidade de espécies vegetais na decomposição e na produção de material orgânico particulado fino (FPOM) por larvas de Phylloicus sp. (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae); avaliamos por meio de um experimento de microcosmo com três espécies de plantas nativas (Alchornea triplinervia, Licania tomentosa, Magnolia ovata) e uma espécie exótica híbrida encontrada na região (Eucalyptus urograndis). Nós formulamos a hipótese de que, a perda de diversidade de plantas levaria à diminuição da decomposição e da produção de FPOM, mas a magnitude desse efeito variaria dependendo das características químicas e de dureza das espécies componentes. Encontramos no capítulo 1, que o (I) tipo de folhas presente nos riachos interfere nos resultados da taxa de decomposição na malha grossa e na malha fina; (II) e grande parte das diferenças estão associadas as características químicas e estruturais das espécies; (III) que diferenças entre riachos foram refletidas apenas na decomposição da malha grossa. Já no capítulo 2 encontramos que as folhas de E. urograndis, podem ser recursos atrativos para as larvas de Phylloicus sp., e que o seu consumo não resultou em prejuízos na sobrevivência das larvas. Além disso, a espécie de folha com maior taxa de decomposição e produção de FPOM por Phylloicus sp. foi A. triplinervia, e o consumo de E. urograndis não diferiu das demais espécies, mas proporcionou a menor produção de FPOM. A perda de diversidade de espécies vegetais pode resultar em diminuição da taxa de decomposição por micro-organismos, mas não interferiu na taxa de decomposição na presença de larvas de Phylloicus sp. e na produção de FPOM. Mudanças na diversidade de espécies de folhas não resultaram em efeitos negativos na sobrevivência das larvas de Phylloicus sp.
“ÇOCUĞUYLA OYNAYAN ANNE” RESMİYLE MARY CASSATT
Authors: ÇETİN Ufuk
Published: April 2021

Bu makalenin konusunu ardından gelen pek çok sanatçı ve özellikle portre ressamına ilham veren, ilk kadın Kuzey Amerikalı feminist, aynı zamanda ünlü İzlenimci ressam Mary Cassatt ve “Çocuğuyla Oynayan Anne” isimli eseri oluşturur. Bu çalışmanın amacı Marry Cassatt’ın ilgili eseri ve konu seçkisi üzerinden ressamın sanat hayatını değerlendirmek ve ressamla ilgili alanyazına katkı sağlamaktır. Bu bağlamda Mary Cassatt’ın hem Amerikan kültüründe yetişmesi, hem de 19. yüzyıl ressamı olması nedeniyle çalışma içinde 19. yüzyılda Amerikan resim sanatına yer verilmiştir. Mary Cassatt’ın eserlerindeki konu seçkisini yorumlamak, onun nasıl bir yaşantı sürdüğünü konusunda bilgi sahibi olmayı gerektirir. Bu nedenle ressamın biyografisine değinilmiş ve üslubunu belirgin biçimde ortaya koyan eserleri seçilerek, çalışmada bu eserler değerlendirilmiştir.
Paradigmas del proceso enseñanza-aprendizaje a distancia
Authors: Rangel-Romero Carlos , Rojas-Garnica Juan Carlos , Flores-Martínez Guillermo , Hernández-Lazcano Ricardo
Published: April 2021

Online teaching and learning are an alternative paradigm to face-to-face education. It promotes the generation of knowledge through theoretical and methodological processes derived from the development of science and technology in the field of communication and information. With distance education, the teacher undertakes innovative strategies that promote meaningful learning. In this paradigm, the teacher as an educational subject is not excluded, on the contrary, it assumes a new role that transits towards the new culture of distance education based on the diversity of resources that the Web has. The most relevant challenges of this new paradigm are accessibility, personalized system, flexibility in study, and interactivity with better learning materials and resources.
SPECTRUM OF CARDIAC COMPLICATIONS IN COVID 19 DEATHS- A RETROSPECTIVE CASE RECORD ANALYSIS AT A DEDICATED COVID CARE HOSPITAL IN CENTRAL INDIA
Authors: Kumar Jain Shailendra , Banerjee Subhadeep , Rai Vijan , Bansal Madhav , Kumar Kawre Krishna , Dubey Simmi
Published: April 2021

Background: Limited studies are there regarding adverse cardiac events found in patients of COVID 19,especially in India.This study aims to nd
th the spectrum of cardiac complications in COVID 19. Methods: Data from May 1 to 12 October,2020 collected retrospectively from medical
records department and analysed for demography,comorbidities and spectrum of cardiac events in COVID 19 deceased. Results: 300 COVID-19
positive patients died during this period. 24% had cardiac complications during hospital stay. Most of the complications developed within 1-3 days
of admission. Out of them, 57.14% had raised troponin levels. NSTEMI (36%) was the most common adverse cardiac event, followed by STEMI
(27.7 % ) & Cardiac Ischemia. Apart from Inuenza like illness ,only 6 had chest pain as presenting complaint..11 patients without comorbidities
had acute coronary syndrome and sudden cardiac deaths. High incidence of cardiac arrythmia was seen- sinus tachycardia, bundle branch blocks,
ectopics, ventricular tachycardia- brillation& sinus bradycardia. One case of PSVTand 4 cases of atrial brillation were also found. Conclusion:
This study supports that cardiac complications are seen in this disease in signicant number of patients. All spectrum of cardiac complication are
seen including STEMI, NSTEMI and sudden cardiac death. There were few patients who had new onset acute coronary syndrome without any
comorbidity, which signies COVID-19 can directly lead to cardiac mortality. Arrythmia including sinus tachycardia, bradycardia and conduction
blocks are also commonly seen.
The induction and development of somatic embryos from the in vitro culture of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don
Authors: Farhadi H. , Hassanpouraghdam M.B. , Aazami Mohammad Ali
Published: April 2021

Catharanthus roseus is containing anticancer alkaloids vincristine and vinblastine as is an important medicinal plant. Several studies have conducted on in-vitro culture of this plant. To optimize the somatic embryogenesis, a factorial based on CRD experiment with 10 replications was conducted. Root, hypocotyl and leaf explants grown in-vitro were transferred and cultured on MS media containing different combinations of 2,4-D, NAA and 2,4-D×BAP. The results revealed that in callogenesis, the interaction effects of root and hypocotyl explants×2,4-D and NAA as well as hypocotyl×(1 mg l-1 NAA+1 mg l-1 BAP) was superior than other treatments (p≤0.01). For calli fresh weight, hypocotyl×NAA and hypocotyl×(1 mg l-1 NAA+1 mg l-1 BAP) was the treatment of choice (p≤0.01). The calli produced were sub-cultured to attain the pre-embryos and somatic embryos. For the number of pre-embryos and somatic embryos; the interaction of hypocotyl×2,4-D was the best and most efficient treatment. Seemingly, the production of somatic embryos is accessible in this plant by the logical management of growth regulator combinations. Furthermore, the production and genetic engineering of the somatic embryos could be a promising trend in the subsequent production of high-valued metabolites from this plant.
A A new Muscarella (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae) from Tapantí National Park, Costa Rica
Authors: Fernández Melania , Bogarín Diego , Pupulin Franco
Published: April 2021

A new species of Muscarella from Costa Rica, is described and illustrated. Muscarella tapantiensis most resembles M. coeloglossa but differs in the longer pedicels (3-5 vs. 1-2 mm), the shorter (2.5-2.8 vs. 3.75 mm), connate (vs. free) lateral sepals, and the lip with triangular (vs. broadly rounded) lower lateral lobes. Muscarella xanthella also resembles M. tapantiensis; however, it differs in the successively flowered raceme with alternate pedicels, the deeply fimbriate petals and the thick, rounded lip with densely verrucose lateral lobes. We provide illustrations, etymology, notes on ecology, pictures of the plants and habitat, and a distribution map of the new species. We discuss the inclusion of this species in the genus Muscarella.