bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Different Sized Multi Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Barrier Potential and Trap Concentration of Malachite Green Dye Based Organic Device
Authors: Sen Sudipta , Manik N. B.
Published: January 2021

Present work shows effect of 8 nm diameter and 30 nm diameter multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) on the barrier potential and trap concentration of Malachite Green (MG) dye based organic device. MWCNTs are basically a bundle of concentric single-walled carbon nanotubes with different diameters. In this work, ITO coated glass substrate and aluminium have been used as front electrode and back electrode respectively and the spin coating method is used to prepare the MG dye based organic device. It has been observed that both barrier potential and trap concentration are in correlation. Estimation of both these parameters has been done from current-voltage characteristics of the device to estimate the trap energy and the barrier potential of the device. Device turn-on voltage or the transition voltage is also calculated by using current-voltage characteristics. In presence of 8 nm diameter MWCNT, the transition voltage is reduced from 3.9 V to 2.37 V, the barrier potential is lowered to 0.97 eV from 1.12 eV and the trap energy is lowered to 0.028 eV from 0.046 eV whereas incorporation of 30 nm diameter MWCNT shows reduction of transition voltage from 3.9 V to 2.71 V and a reduction of barrier potential and trap concentration from 1.12 eV to 1.03 eV and from 0.046 eV to 0.035 eV respectively. Presence of both 8 nm diameter and 30 nm diameter MWCNT lowers trap energy approximately to 39% and 24% respectively and lowers barrier potential approximately to 13% and 8% respectively. Estimation of barrier potential is also done by Norde method which shows lowering of the value from 0.88 eV to 0.79 eV and from 0.88 eV to 0.84 eV in presence of both 8 nm and 30 nm diameter multi walled carbon nanotubes respectively. Calculation of barrier potential from both the I-V characteristics and Norde method are in unison with each other. Indication of enhancement of charge flow in the device can be ascribed to the truncated values of barrier potential and trap energy.
Influence of Stick Electrode Coating’s Moisture Content on the Diffusible Hydrogen in Underwater Wet Shielded Metal Arc Welding
Authors: Klett J. , Hassel T.
Published: January 2021

In shielded metal arc welding, the major factors influencing hydrogen uptake into the weld metal are (i) the hydrogen content of the base metal, (ii) hydrogen input by the welding consumable, and (iii) the hydrogen introduced by the atmosphere surrounding the arc process. In this study, the relative contribution of these factors is investigated and compared to each other for the case of underwater wet shielded metal arc welding. To assess the influence of the stick electrode’s moisture (capillary introduced water during handling operations) on the diffusible hydrogen in wet welded samples, wet and dry electrodes were welded at four different water depths. The moisture was absorbed through the sharpened electrode tip only, to ensure close to service conditions. The results show that the moist stick electrode coatings lead to 22.6% higher average diffusible hydrogen content in the weld metal (0.5 m water depth an average). However, the effect disappears with increasing water depths (no difference in 60 m water depth).
Metallurgical Characterization and Kinetics of Borided 34CrNiMo6 Steel
Authors: Ucar N. , Yigit M. , Calik A.
Published: January 2021

Boriding of 34CrNiMo6 steel was performed in a solid medium consisting of Ekabor-II powders at 1123, 1173 and 1223 K for 2, 4 and 6 h. Morphological and kinetic examinations of the boride layers were carried out by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The thicknesses of the boride layers ranged from 22±2.3 to 145±4.1 depending on boriding temperature and time. The hardness of boride layer was about 1857 HV0.1 after boriding for 6 h at 1223 K, while the hardness of the substrate was only around 238 HV0.1. Growth rate constants were found to be between 1.2×10−13 – 9.8×10−13 m2/s depending on temperature. The activation energy for boron diffusion was estimated as 239.4±8.6 kJ mol−1. This value was comparable to the activation energies reported for medium carbon steels in the literature.
Agricultural Product Recommendation Model based on BMF
Authors: Wan Fucheng , Zhu Dengyun , He Xiangzhen , Guo Qi , Zhang Dongjiao , Ren Zhenyang , Du Yuxiang
Published: January 2021

In this article, based on the collaborative deep learning (CDL) and convolutional matrix factorisation (ConvMF), the language model BERT is used to replace the traditional word vector construction method, and the bidirectional long–short time memory network Bi-LSTM is used to construct an improved collaborative filtering model BMF, which not only solves the phenomenon of ‘polysemy’, but also alleviates the problem of sparse scoring matrix data. Experiments show that the proposed model is effective and superior to CDL and ConvMF. The trained MSE value is 1.031, which is 9.7% lower than ConvMF.
Optimization of Peroxidase Activity of Turnip (Brassica rapa) Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Dahdouh Amel , Bachir-Bey Mostapha , Kati Djamel Edine
Published: January 2021

The present study is focused on the determination of optimized activity conditions of peroxidase (POD) of turnip (Brassica rapa). The enzyme is extracted from turnip with 0.5M Na2HPO4 (pH7.0). Peroxidase activity is evaluated by monitoring the oxidation of guaiacol to tetraguaiacol in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Before the optimization of peroxidase activity from a turnip by response surface methodology (RSM), a preliminary step is conducted for each studied parameter (pH, temperature, and NaCl concentration). Further, RSM following Box-Behnken design is used in order to refine the optimization of the conditions. Response surface analysis showed that parameter values with the highest peroxidase activity are 5.9, 29.8°C, and 1.07M for pH, temperature, and NaCl, respectively. Under these experimental conditions, peroxidase activity is found to be 4027.25U/mg. The obtained experimental value agrees with that of the calculated one, indicating the pertinence of the developed model for the optimization of peroxidase activity.
Biscuits from Fermented Roasted Buckwheat Flour - Phenolics Profile and Bioaccessible Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Wronkowska Małgorzata , Honke Joanna , Zieliński Henryk , Wiczkowski Wiesław
Published: January 2021

The bioaccessible angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity of biscuits formulated from roasted common buckwheat flour after fermentation by select bacteria was studied. The same content of total phenolic compounds was found in fermented flour and in biscuits obtained from them. Generally, fermentation of flour did not changes the ACE inhibitory activity, whereas baking process significantly increased the ACE inhibitory activity of examined products. The potential bioaccessible ACE inhibitory activity from biscuits was very high. Phenolic acids such as protocatechuic, vanillic and syringic acids as well as flavonoids: kaempferol and epicatechin in the digested buckwheat biscuits have the highest impact on ACE inhibitory activity. A high significant correlations were found between IC50 and total phenolic compounds of fermented flours, biscuits before and after digestion. The data obtained in this study closely associates phenolic compounds with ACE inhibitory activity.
Characteristics of Technological Properties of Grain and Flour from Ancient Varieties of Wheat (Einkorn, Emmer and Spelt)
Authors: Belcar Justyna , Sobczyk Anna , Sobolewska Magdalena , Stankowski Sławomir , Gorzelany Józef
Published: January 2021

The study presents assessment of commodity characteristics of grains from ancient varieties of wheat (einkorn, emmer and spelt) in comparison to grains of the conventional wheat cultivar Arkadia. The findings related to the grain of einkorn and emmer were very similar, and far worse than those related to spelt grain; the latter were found with better ratings, sometimes even in comparison to the conventional wheat grain (e.g. the highest mass-weight density). Similar relationships were observed between the flours produced by milling the grains. Analysis of the indirect baking quality indicators showed that flours from einkorn and emmer can effectively be used for baking purposes, however they present low technological value. The flour from emmer wheat was found to be the poorest, which was confirmed e.g. by the low gluten number, gluten index, Zeleny’s index, and high gluten spreadability. Spelt flour was found to present moderate technological value. Based on the results it can be concluded that by using adequate modification in the process of dough kneading and fermentation it will be possible to produce high quality baked goods from ancient wheat grains.
Effect of Tytanit® on the Physiological Activity of Wild Strawberry (Fragaria vesca L.) Grown in Salinity Conditions
Authors: Auriga Alicja , Wróbel Jacek , Ochmian Ireneusz
Published: January 2021

Progressive global warming and decreasing freshwater resources are forcing to look for alternative solutions in plants cultivation. The use of saltwater and cultivation in saline areas becomes increasingly common. Wild strawberry is a rich source of antioxidant compounds beneficial for human health. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of Tytanit® on the physiological activity of wild strawberry grown under different salinity levels (32.5, 50 and 100 mM L−1 NaCl). Assimilatory pigments content, free proline concentration, chlorophyll fluorescence and relative water content were measured at two phenological phases BBCH 15 and 60. Results analysis revealed that the applicability of Tytanit® to mitigate physiological stress in wild strawberry caused by salinity did not produce the desired effect.
Nonlinearities on particular elliptic curves subspaces and applications
Authors: Alsaedi Ramzi , Dhifli Abdelwahab , Ghanmi Abdeljabbar
Published: January 2021

Researching on mathematical models for cryptography means to, primary, define the optimal spaces and rules for which we can archive the maximum time to find the involved parameters of the keys and, in the same time, to optimise the time for key generation.

In the present work, we treat a particular case of some subspaces from elliptic curves which respect the announced principles.
Jacobsons Lemma fails for nil-clean 2 × 2 integral matrices
Authors: Călugăreanu Grigore , Pop Horia F.
Published: January 2021

We show that for two 2 × 2 integral matrices A, B, if the product AB is nil-clean then BA may not be nil-clean. Despite the fact that for many special cases, BA is also nil-clean, we finally found three counterexamples. All the way, the computer aid was decisive.
Algorithmic Aspects of Some Variants of Domination in Graphs
Authors: Kumar J. Pavan , Reddy P.Venkata Subba
Published: January 2021

A set S ⊆ V is a dominating set in G if for every u ∈ V \ S, there exists v ∈ S such that (u, v) ∈ E, i.e., N[S] = V . A dominating set S is an isolate dominating set (IDS) if the induced subgraph G[S] has at least one isolated vertex. It is known that Isolate Domination Decision problem (IDOM) is NP-complete for bipartite graphs. In this paper, we extend this by showing that the IDOM is NP-complete for split graphs and perfect elimination bipartite graphs, a subclass of bipartite graphs. A set S ⊆ V is an independent set if G[S] has no edge. A set S ⊆ V is a secure dominating set of G if, for each vertex u ∈ V \ S, there exists a vertex v ∈ S such that (u, v) ∈ E and (S \ {v}) ∪ {u} is a dominating set of G. In addition, we initiate the study of a new domination parameter called, independent secure domination. A set S ⊆ V is an independent secure dominating set (InSDS) if S is an independent set and a secure dominating set of G. The minimum size of an InSDS in G is called the independent secure domination number of G and is denoted by γ
is
(G). Given a graph G and a positive integer k, the InSDM problem is to check whether G has an independent secure dominating set of size at most k. We prove that InSDM is NP-complete for bipartite graphs and linear time solvable for bounded tree-width graphs and threshold graphs, a subclass of split graphs. The MInSDS problem is to find an independent secure dominating set of minimum size, in the input graph. Finally, we show that the MInSDS problem is APX-hard for graphs with maximum degree 5.
The modified Ishikawa iteration process with errors in CAT(0) spaces
Authors: Ranjbar Sajad
Published: January 2021

In this article, Δ-convergence and strong convergence of the modified Ishikawa iteration process with errors are established for continuous mappings of asymptotically nonexpansive type in CAT(0) spaces. Our results extend and improve the previous results given by many authors.
Null scrolls with prescribed curvatures in Lorentz-Minkowski 3-space
Authors: Šipuš Željka Milin , Gajčić Ljiljana Primorac , Protrka Ivana
Published: January 2021

In Lorentz-Minkowski 3-space, null scrolls are ruled surfaces with a null base curve and null rulings. Their mean, as well as their Gaussian curvature, depends only on a parameter of a base curve. In the present paper, we obtain the first-order nonlinear differential equation (Riccati equation) which relates curvatures of a base curve to curvatures of a null scroll. Conditioned by this equation, we can determine a family of null scrolls with a given null base curve and prescribed curvatures, in particular, a family of minimal and constant mean curvature null scrolls.
New aspects in polygroup theory
Authors: Sonea Andromeda Cristina
Published: January 2021

The aim of this paper is to compute the commutativity degree in polygroup’s theory, more exactly for the polygroup PG
and for extension of polygroups by polygroups, obtaining boundaries for them. Also, we have analyzed the nilpotencitiy of 𝒜[𝒝], meaning the extension of polygroups 𝒜 and 𝒝.
Biological Properties of Knitted Fabrics Used in Post-Burn Scar Rehabilitation
Authors: Latańska Ilona , Kowalski Krzysztof , Kłonowska Magdalena , Jaworska Aleksandra , Doś Janusz , Karbowski Krzysztof , Sujka Witold
Published: January 2021

Compression therapy along with the use of compression materials is one of the main prevention methods against scars and keloids. Compression knitted fabrics must be characterized by parameters that enabling to reaching class I compression (16–24 mmHg). When constant pressure higher than capillary vessels pressure is applied to scars, it will have a negative influence on formation of keloids and significantly prevents their hypertrophy. Long-term pressure causes tissue hypoxia, slowed-down metabolism, and reduction of the amount of fibroblasts. One of key elements of compression therapy is choosing the required knitted fabric with necessary structure and physicomechanical parameters as well as designing methodology based on Laplace law, which will ensure the application of desired value of single-unit pressure on post-burn scar. Apart from physicomechanical parameters, a medical device, such as compression garment, must be characterized by high level of biocompatibility. An added value in terms of functional parameters is the antibacterial action of the product. It was obtained from the fibers used which contain a compound in their matrix and out of which silver ions are released. Additionally, the antibacterial action was also obtained via impregnation of the knitted fabric in RUCO-BAC AGP which contains silver. In the course of the research presented in the article, compression fabric was designed with a special construction—a knitted fabric comprising two layers. The first layer, which is in direct contact with human skin, is manufactured out of a yarn with conductive-diffusive characteristics. The second layer is made of microfibers which keep the moisture out of skin surface and also diffuse it to the outside. The following article describes the final stage of developing a compression garment aiding the external treatment process; the mentioned stage is related to biological tests such as microbiological contamination, cytotoxicity, sensitization, and irritation. The article closes a series of publications presented by the Authors in bibliography. It also presents the antibacterial activity tests done on the developed double-layer knitted fabric enriched with silver. The obtained results suggest that the fabric may be used not only in compression therapy, but also in the field of cosmetics and aesthetics.
New Alien Plant Species Recorded in South Lithuania
Authors: Gudžinskas Zigmantas , Taura Laurynas
Published: January 2021

Performing a thorough inventory of alien plant species in the southern part of Lithuania, we found twelve alien plant species previously not registered in the country: Aruncus dioicus, Buxus sempervirens, Clematis vitalba, Clematis recta, Colutea arborescens, Erechtites hieraciifolius, Erigeron strigosus, Euphorbia marginata, Genista sagittalis, Lathyrus latifolius, Sempervivum arachnoideum and Silphium perfoliatum. All newly recorded alien species, except Erechtites hieraciifolius and possibly Genista sagittalis, have been introduced intentionally and escaped from cultivation. Ten species currently occur as casuals, whereas Colutea arborescens and Genista sagittalis are locally naturalised. Naturalisation of Buxus sempervirens and Euphorbia marginata in the foreseen future is unlikely in Lithuania, naturalisation of Aruncus dioicus, Sempervivum arachnoideum and Silphium perfoliatum is possible. In contrast, naturalisation of the other five species is expected in the nearest future. Invasion of seven analysed alien species is unlikely in Lithuania, whereas Clematis vitalba, Colutea arborescens, Erechtites hieraciifolius, Erigeron strigosus, Lathyrus latifolius have the potential to become invasive in the country. Therefore, their reproduction and spread should be monitored, and measures for prevention of their invasion should be applied, if necessary.
Is COVID-19 on the Covers of Socio-Political Magazines an Example of Media Polarisation? Case Study from Poland
Authors: Jupowicz-Ginalska Anna
Published: January 2021

The main purpose of this paper was to explore the media image of the COVID-19 pandemic through the perspective of Polish media polarisation. In order to achieve this, a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the content of covers from 10 socio-political magazines, representing different ideological inclinations [left-wing, liberal, conservative, right-wing and Catholic] was conducted between January and June 2020. The study focused not only on the scale to which the coronavirus appeared on the covers, but also on the textual and visual representation of it. Additionally, the contexts in which COVID-19 appeared were analysed. As it turned out, apart from the medical context, the pandemic was mostly presented through political, social, economic and religious perspectives, of which the first was the most visibly connected with polarising media content, indicating clear links between the ideological bias of the magazines and the ways they described reality.
The Moral Economy of Micro-Transactions in Digital Games
Authors: Nielsen Daniel
Published: January 2021

In the digital game industry, micro-transactions (MTXs) have been introduced as a new vehicle for profit generation. MTXs are small sum payments for additional virtual content beyond the content players obtain through game-play and progression, which impose new structural limitations and opportunities for game participation on the players. This article explores the perspectives of players on corporate commodification strategies of gameplay. The empirical work consists of semi-structured focus group interviews of players and interviews of podcast hosts. All informants are players of various online games.

By adopting Sayer’s (2004, 2007, 2017) concept of moral economy and de Certeau’s (2011) concept of tactics in everyday life, this study draws two conclusions. First, virtual items and goods obtained through in-game activities or MTXs are a means to communicate skill level, taste, and experience between players as a fundamental part of the moral economy of establishing fair ground for competition. With regard to MTXs, players distinguish among three levels in which agency is maintained or limited. Second, players negotiate these models of commodification and agency limitation in ambivalent ways, both resisting and embracing economic values in the moral economy of play. Furthermore, because of this negotiation, players are generally concerned about the invasive nature of economic values taking priority over the values that guide the practices of play. In other words, there is a moral concern regarding how norms and values in play are compromised or overridden by outside economic pressures.
Evaluation of Enriched Learning Environment in the Context of Mathematical Reasoning from the Perspective of the Students and their Teacher
Authors: Kutluca Tamer , Tum Ali , Mut Ali İhsan
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the current study is to investigate the learning process, which is enriched by using various teaching methods in the context of mathematical reasoning from the perspectives of seventh grade students and their mathematics teacher. In order to have an in-depth study, a qualitative research approach was preferred. This research was conducted with 23 seventh grade students and their mathematics teacher at a randomly selected public secondary school. Qualitative data was collected by using a semi-structured interview form developed for both the teacher and the students. As a result of this research, it was determined that this learning environment increased students’ participation in the lessons, provided effective and permanent learning and encouraged the use of mathematical reasoning skills. In addition, it was found that this learning environment, which uses various learning ways, develops a positive attitude towards the lessons. Besides, according to the findings of this study, it was found that the learning environment in which various learning ways were utilized provided sufficient knowledge of concept and method to the students, and improved their mathematical reasoning skills.
Sustainability Balanced Scorecard Architecture and Environmental Investment Decision-Making
Authors: Jassem Suaad , Zakaria Zarina , Che Azmi Anna
Published: January 2021

This study is centered around a set of research questions that aim to explain how sustainability balanced scorecard architectures with sustainability parameters either embedded or treated as a separate perspective relate to environmental investment decision-making. The research also examines the mediating role of sustainability balanced scorecard knowledge and moderating role of strategic risk information. This article presents the results and answers to the research questions via conducting an experimental study approach using a two-factor factorial design. This is possibly the first study that determines, through an experimental procedure conducted with managers working in large manufacturing companies, whether any significant difference exists in environmental investment decision outcomes when decision-makers are presented with either an architecture where sustainability is embedded with the traditional four perspectives of balanced scorecards versus when it is presented as a separate fifth perspective. Furthermore, the development of an integrated model is possibly a significant contribution to the extant literature.
Predictors of moral distress among nurses working in Jimma University Medical Center, South West Ethiopia
Authors: Beyaffers Habtam Abebaw , Woldetsadik Marta Tessema , Gizaw Admasu Belay
Published: January 2021

Background

Moral distress is characterized by biopsychosocial, cognitive, and behavioral effects experienced by clinicians when their values are compromised by internal or external constraints, which results in the inability to give the desired care to patients.

Objective

To assess predictors of moral distress among nurses working in Jimma University Medical Center, South West Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study design was used. A simple random sampling technique was applied to select a total of 248 study participants. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire, which contains socio-demographic characteristics, Moral Distress Scale-Revised, personal factors, and organizational factors. The data were entered into Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS software version 20. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed. Finally, P-value <0.05 was used to declare and include variables with statistically significant in predicting the outcome variable.

Results

More than two-thirds of the study participants 170 (68.5%) were females. The mean age of the respondents is 29 years. Among the study participants, 174 (70.16%) nurses had experienced a high level of moral distress. Sex, working hours, professional commitment, autonomy, and working environment were statistically significant predictors of moral distress.

Conclusions

More than two-thirds of the nurses were experiencing a high level of moral distress. This will affect the nursing service quality, nurses, the nursing profession, and the organization as a whole. This finding is critical for the study since the problem is happening in the presence of low nurse to patient ratio and low nursing care quality. Sex, working hours per week, professional commitment, autonomy, and working environment were identified as predictors of moral distress.
Status of the AMS graphitization system in the dendrochronological laboratory at AGH-UST, Kraków
Authors: Wiktorowski Damian , Krąpiec Marek , Rakowski Andrzej , Cherkinsky Alexander
Published: January 2021

A new system for the preparation of graphite samples for radiocarbon (14C) measurement using an accelerator mass spectrometer (AMS) has been built in the Dendrochronological Laboratory at AGH-UST, Kraków. This system consists of three independent components. The first is the equipment for mechanical and chemical sample pre-treatment. The second is the vacuum line for sample sealing and the purification of CO2. The third and central part of this system is a graphitization line, where graphite is produced from CO2. In the first stage, chemical sample preparation was carried out to remove impurities. IAEA and NIST OxII standard materials were converted to CO2 without pre-treatment. In the next step, samples were combusted to CO2. The resulting CO2 was released under vacuum and cryogenically purified for subsequent graphitization. The performance of the system was tested with NIST OxII, IAEA standards (IAEA C5, C6 and C7) and background samples. The test confirms good reproducibility of results obtained for the samples prepared using this system. The results of the 49 samples of NIST Ox-II, IAEA standards and blank samples were presented in this article.
14C Dating of mortar from ruins of an early medieval church Hohenrätien GR, Switzerland
Authors: Hajdas Irka , Maurer Mantana , Röttig Maria Belen
Published: January 2021

Numerous ruins around the world lack the radiometric dating due to the scarcity of organic carbon. Here, we present results of radiocarbon dating of mortar samples from an early Medieval church Hohenrätien GR, Switzerland, which was dated to the early 6th century, based on typology. The method of dating mortars, which is currently applied at the ETH laboratory, involves sieving the crushed mortar, selection of grain size 45−63 μm and sequential dissolution resulting in four fractions of CO2 collected in a 3-second interval each. Two mortar samples, which were analyzed using sequential dissolution and one by dating a bulk of lime lump, resulted in a combined radiocarbon age of 1551±21 BP translating to the calendar age of 427−559 AD.
Interaction between stem damage, crown vitality and growth performance of European yew in Central–East Europe
Authors: Sedmáková Denisa , Saniga Milan , Pittner Ján , Vencurik Jaroslav , Sedmák Robert
Published: January 2021

As long-lived, slow-growing tree species, European yew (Taxus baccata L.) has considerable potential for dendrochronological use. The increasing probability of decline and the worsening of yew health status endanger the species diversity of temperate forests. In 2015–2017, we sampled adult yew populations with scattered occurrence in limestone beech forests (Fagetum dealpinum), in which yew trees exhibit the top growth performance. Altogether, 150 trees were sampled (294 cores) at four localities. By using the general linear model, we investigated the interactions between stem and crown status, sex and growth performance of yew trees. Based on the previous results and innovative measures of competition and canopy closure, we explored the promotion of silviculture care for female over the male trees and formulated exact release cutting rules. The results demonstrate divergent growth trends between male and female trees and the pronounced negative effects of crown and stem damage on growth performance of European yew. Expected decreases in radial growth of damaged female trees in comparison with male ones is less confirmed. Despite this, making silvicultural treatments for females as a priority is recommendable. Our findings can improve the effectiveness of forest management and restoration activities in European temperate forests, where yew adults are threatened by the higher degree of shading and herbivory pressure.
Reading in Research and Information Centres. Case Study of LBUS
Authors: Rodica Volovici , Andreea Capatana
Published: January 2021

The paper focuses of to open the minds of pupils and turn them to reading, teacher librarians must prepare pupils, bring them face to face with reading, situations, themes from each reading instance, so that they can analyze, describe, freely express themselves, using the right words to convey their thoughts, feelings, emotions, and compare the information they came across while reading with their own experiences, the situations they’ve lived through, thus anchoring them in daily reality.
Pragmatization of stylistics
Authors: Bohunická Alena
Published: January 2021

The pragmalinguistic approach to the relationship between language and human is also reflected in the stylistic research. In this paper, we aim to clarify the sense of pragmatization in stylistics and outline the new stimuli for such a perspective. This goal assumes a brief analysis of implementations of pragmatic ideas in distinct Slovak stylistic paradigms and a presentation of a perspective for further reflections. We understand pragmatization in stylistics as a change of the interpretative model of language; a shift away from perception of language in the frame of an instrumental paradigm towards the perception of linguistic activity as social action. When clarifying the specificity of the language activity, which we call social action, we will apply H. Arendt’s ideas in her theory of action, specifically on the distinction between the terms labor, work and action. In line with the pragmalinguistic focus on a cognition of the human from the language perspective, and referring to the Arendt’s concept of the self-manifestation in speech, we find an anthropic approach to the language style and the authenticity as its most significant characteristics (especially in regard to public sphere) as viable for current stylistics.
A low profile compact three-way Wilkinson power divider with size reduction
Authors: Kasar Ömer
Published: January 2021

In this study, a three-way Wilkinson power divider (WPD) was proposed the circuit whose center frequency was selected as 1.9 GHz operates between 0.95-2.95 GHz frequencies and has a bandwidth of approximately 105%. The simulation and measurement results of the designed circuit were well aligned with each other below 10 dB return loss and 13 dB isolation. In addition, 0.4, 0.3 and 1.0 dB insertion loss were obtained in the output ways, respectively. The circuit is made more compact thanks to the curved structure of the output ways. It has been found that the proposed three-way power divider takes about 35% less space than the conventional circuit design.
Islamophobic Discourse of Czech Politicians and Political Parties on Twitter during the 2015 Migration Crisis
Authors: Vallo Zbyněk , Jaworek Robert , Matlach Vladimír
Published: January 2021

This article focuses on the manifestations of Islamophobia of Czech politicians and political parties on the social networking service Twitter during the 2015 migration crisis. It utilizes the securitization theory of Copenhagen school as a theoretical framework, and through content analysis of relevant tweets aims to provide more data on what role Islamophobia played in the securitization of incoming migrants. We find that although securitization, and much more politicization, of migrants took place, obvious Islamophobia, similar to the one of the Czech Islamophobic movement, happened only in some cases. A number of those politicians who politicized or migrants and Islam usually raised their voices against radical Islamophobes.
Effects of vitamin C supplementation on the blood oxidative stress and antibody titre against Histophilus somni vaccination in calves
Authors: Otomaru Konosuke , Oishi Shoko , Fujimura Yu , Iwamoto Yuki , Nagai Katsuhisa , Ijiri Moe
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of vitamin C supplementation on blood oxidative stress biomarkers and antibody response to vaccination in calves.

Material and methods

Thirty-four clinically healthy 2 week old Japanese Black calves were randomly assigned to two groups. Seventeen calves formed the VC group which received 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily from 2 to 8 weeks of age, and the other 17 calves of the control group did not receive supplementation. All calves received an inactivated Histophilus somni vaccine at 4 and 8 weeks of age. Blood samples were taken at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age.

Results

The concentration of the serum reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs), and the oxidative stress index (OSI), which is calculated from the d-ROMs and biological antioxidant potential, were significantly lower at 8 weeks of age in the VC group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The antibody titres to H. somni in the VC group were significantly higher than those in the control group at 12 weeks of age after the second vaccination (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Vitamin C supplementation to calves may reduce oxidative stress and enhance the antibody production after vaccination with H. somni.
Comparative Studies Of Three Formulated Artificial Litchi Flavored Drinks Under Storage
Authors: Saeid Abu , Deb Niebaron Kumar , Eliyas  , Sarkar Sree Surozit , Debnath Milon , Islam Md. Taherul , Islam Md. Tawhidul
Published: January 2021

The aim to the present study was to formulate of artificial litchi flavored drinks, to assess quality parameters like pH, acidity, TSS and sensory characteristics of three formulated artificial litchi flavored drinks were investigated under 28 days of storage at ambient (30±2°C) temperature. The pH values for all samples varied from 3.53 to 3.65 under the entire storage duration. The acidity found in three different samples ranged from 0.155 to 0.161% under storage condition. The TSS possess among the samples between 15.43 to 16.10°Brix. The sensory profile of three different formulation was evaluated in terms of color, flavor, taste and overall acceptability. The sensory parameters were followed the decreasing trend after end of the storage except sample 3. Although, initially sample 3 found in lowest sensory acceptance but retained the more stable score under the entire storage period which is significantly different (P≤0.05) from other samples. Considering pH, acidity, TSS values under entire storage condition the formulation of sample 3 had shown better results although with few exceptions there was no significant difference (P≤0.05) among the samples. However, end of the study we recommended that, the formulation of sample 3 had better among other sample 1 and sample 2 in terms of quality and cost.
The Impact of Competitive Individual School Sports on the Individual’s Future Participation in Competitive Organisational Situations (Based on Empirical Evidence)
Authors: Juhász Tímea , Kálmán Botond , Tóth Arnold
Published: January 2021

Competitive pressures at the workplace have already become standard issue. Participation in rivalrous situations and related attitudes are influenced by several factors, out of which a few can be traced back into childhood. Aspiration and over-ambitiousness surround our everyday lives from childhood: there is an intensive rivalry for good grades in secondary school or better performance in youth sports. These experiences all integrate into adulthood behavioural patterns. The authors investigated to what extent childhood competitive motivations influenced subsequent participation in competitive situations at the workplace, if these motivations remain in adulthood, and furthermore, how these incentives fluctuated with time. Based on the results of their questionnaire survey constellating actual and retrospective information, they concluded that competitive incitation of juveniles were still identifiable during later stages of life, albeit they vaguely mutated over time. The results are applicable in miscellaneous practical fields. At the workplace, the attitude of workers is, in turn, definable even before their admission. As regards education and career, answers received for questionnaires being constructed based on these results may assist in the methodology of formulation of the necessary everyday skill.
The assessment of consecutive 4D-CT scans during simulation for lung stereotactic body radiation therapy patients
Authors: Savanovic Milovan , Strbac Bojan , Jaros Drazan , Foulquier Jean-Noel
Published: January 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the breathing amplitude, tumor motion, patient positioning, and treatment volumes among consecutive four-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT) scans, during the simulation for lung stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

Material and methods: The variation and shape of the breathing amplitude, patient positioning, and treatment volumes were evaluated for 55 lung cancer patients after consecutive 4D-CT acquisitions, scanned at one-week intervals. The impact of variation in the breathing amplitude on lung tumor motion was determined for 20 patients. The gross tumor volume (GTV) was contoured from a free-breathing CT scan and at ten phases of the respiratory cycle, for both 4D-CTs (440 phases in total).

Results: Breathing amplitude decreased by 3.6 (3.4-4.9) mm, tumor motion by 3.2 (0.4-5.0) mm while breathing period increased by 4 (2-6) s, inter-scan for 20 patients. Intra-scan variation was 4 times greater for the breathing amplitude, 5 times for the breathing period, and 8 times for the breathing cycle, comparing irregular versus regular breathing patterns for 55 patients. Using coaching, the breathing amplitude increases 3 to 8 mm, and the breathing period 2 to 6 s. Differences in the contoured treatment volumes were less than 10% between consecutive scans. Patient positioning remained stable, with a small inter-scan difference of 1.1 (0.6-1.4) mm.

Conclusion: Decreasing the inter-scan breathing amplitude decreases the tumor motion reciprocally. When the breathing amplitude decreases, the breathing period increases at inter- and intra-scan, especially during irregular breathing. Coaching improves respiration, keeping the initial shape of the breathing amplitude. Contoured treatment volumes and patient positioning were reproducible through successive scans.
Numerical Investigation of the Hydrodynamic Performance of the Propeller Behind the Ship with and Without Wed
Authors: Nadery Alireza , Ghassemi Hassan
Published: January 2021

The presented paper numerically carries out the investigation of the hydrodynamic performance of the propeller behind the ship with and without wake equalizing duct (WED). It is mounted in front of the propeller in order to equalize the ship’s wake flow and improve the propeller performance. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis software STAR-CCM solver was adopted to simulate the KP505 propeller behind the KRISO container ship (KCS) using overlapping grid technology and user-defined functions. To obtain the effect of a –duct on propeller performance, the ship bare hull case, the with-propeller case, and the with-propeller-and-duct case are also computed. Together, these computations provide for a –complete CFD comparison of the duct effects. Also, the Taguchi design of the experiment method is applied to investigate three parameters (angle of attack, trailing edge radius, and chord length) of the duct. Finally, the main dimensions are obtained, and the thrust and torque coefficients are presented and discussed for one blade and whole blades during one cycle. Based on the numerical results, it is indicated that good design increases efficiency by 1.67%, and a –bad design may reduce efficiency by 3.25%. Also, the effect of the WED caused to decrease the pressure pulse by 35.9% in the face side of the propeller blade.
Preliminary Analysis of the Use of Solid Biofuels in a Ship’s Power System
Authors: Zeńczak Wojciech , Gromadzińska Agata Krystosik
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the results of applying ennobled solid biomass via mechanical compaction or torrefaction as fuel for ships, in terms of fire safety, environmental protection, the increase in liquid fuel prices and the dwindling resources of crude oil. The object of investigation is a ship of the ro-pax ferry type, with low cruising range, which is intended for service on the Baltic Sea. The ship’s power system is discussed and the results of calculations of the thermal cycle for a steam turbine power plant are presented. We present a simplified comparative analysis of a fuel bunker for a ship with a power plant including biomass fired boilers, and for a ship with a conventional solution of a motor power plant supplied by ultra-low sulphur fuel originating from crude oil. The advantages of applying a fluidised bed biomass fired boiler are highlighted, and selected results from tests of this boiler are presented. In addition, we assess potential fire hazards on the ship resulting from the storage and transport of pellets, and from pellets after torrefaction.
Experimental and Numerical Investigations of Ultimate Strength of Imperfect Stiffened Plates of Different Slenderness
Authors: Woloszyk Krzysztof , Garbatov Yordan , Kowalski Jakub , Samson Leszek
Published: January 2021

The objective of this study is to analyse the behaviour of compressed stiffened plates of different slenderness using experimental and numerical methods. The presented results are part of a long-term project to investigate the ultimate strength of geometrically imperfect structures subjected to different degradation phenomena, including corrosion degradation and locked cracks. Several specimens were subjected to a uniaxial compressive force, and the most important quantities related to the structural behaviour were captured and analysed. A finite element model, accounting for material and geometrical nonlinearities and initial geometrical imperfections, was developed using the commercial software ANSYS. The residual welding-induced stresses were measured in the middle cross-section for two specimens. The initial imperfection was identified by employing a close-range photogrammetry approach. It was concluded that the numerical analyses, based on the finite element model, predict the ultimate strength of stiffened plates accurately, although some deviations were also observed. The detailed analysis with the indication of possible uncertainty is presented, and several conclusions are derived.
A Random Forest Model for the Prediction of Spudcan Penetration Resistance in Stiff-Over-Soft Clays
Authors: Gao Pan , Liu Zhihui , Zeng Ji , Zhan Yiting , Wang Fei
Published: January 2021

Punch-through is a major threat to the jack-up unit, especially at well sites with layered stiff-over-soft clays. A model is proposed to predict the spudcan penetration resistance in stiff-over-soft clays, based on the random forest (RF) method. The RF model was trained and tested with numerical simulation results obtained through the Finite Element model, implemented with the Coupled Eulerian Lagrangian (CEL) approach. With the proposed CEL model, the effects of the stiff layer thickness, undrained shear strength ratio, and the undrained shear strength of the soft layer on the bearing characteristics, as well as the soil failure mechanism, were numerically studied. A simplified resistance profile model of penetration in stiff-over-soft clays is proposed, divided into three sections by the peak point and the transition point. The importance of soil parameters to the penetration resistance was analysed. Then, the trained RF model was tested against the test set, showing a good prediction of the numerical cases. Finally, the trained RF was validated against centrifuge tests. The RF model successfully captured the punch-through potential, and was verified using data recorded in the field, showing advantages over the SNAME guideline. It is supposed that the trained RF model should give a good prediction of the spudcan penetration resistance profile, especially if trained with more field data.
Influence of Fin’s Material Capabilities on the Propulsion System of Biomimetic Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Piskur Pawel , Szymak Piotr , Kitowski Zygmunt , Flis Leszek
Published: January 2021

The technology of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) is developing in two main directions focusing on improving autonomy and improving construction, especially driving and power supply systems. The new Biomimetic Underwater Vehicles (BUVs) are equipped with the innovative, energy efficient driving system consisting of artificial fins. Because these driving systems are not well developed yet, there are great possibilities to optimize them, e.g. in the field of materials. The article provides an analysis of the propulsion force of the fin as a function of the characteristics of the material from which it is made. The parameters of different materials were used for the fin design and their comparison. The material used in our research was tested in a laboratory to determine the Young’s modulus. For simplicity, the same fin geometry (the length and the height) was used for each type of fin. The Euler–Bernoulli beam theory was applied for estimation of the fluid–structure interaction. This article presents the laboratory test stand and the results of the experiments. The laboratory water tunnel was equipped with specialized sensors for force measurements and fluid–structure interaction analysis. The fin deflection is mathematically described, and the relationship between fin flexibility and the generated driving force is discussed.
Oxygen Evolution Reaction on a N-Doped Co0.5-Terminated Co3o4 (001) Surface
Authors: Kaptagay Gulbanu A. , Sandibaeva Nazira A. , Inerbaev Talgat M. , Mastrikov Yuri A. , Kotomin Eugene A.
Published: January 2021

Recent experimental findings suggest that the catalytic activity of Co3O4 for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) could be improved by nitrogen doping. We present preliminary OER modelling on a N-doped Co3O4 surface, with varying concentration of the dopant and its spatial distribution around Cooct and Cotet adsorption sites. The overpotential was calculated for two adsorption sites on seven types of N-doped Co3O4 surface. The largest calculated overpotential value for a N-doped surface was ~1V.
Successful implementation of integrated care in Slovenian primary care
Authors: Susič Antonija Poplas , Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika
Published: January 2021

For the purpose of celebrating the 40th anniversary of Alma Ata declaration, the WHO published a successful model of integrated patient care being performed in Slovenia. After two years, the WHO experts evaluated the success in practise during a visit to the Slovenian primary care environment. This report showed that Slovenia was a notable exception regarding developing effective primary care systems. The country has an impressive primary care which performs very well.