bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L’accompagnement du changement organisationnel lors de la mise en œuvre d’un Plan d’Accompagnement Globalisé dans un IME
Authors: Petoux Michael
Published: March 2022

Le secteur du Handicap rencontre des difficultés pour répondre aux besoins des personnes en situation complexe, jusqu’à conduire à l’exclusion de tout accompagnement. De ce constat est né le rapport « Zero Sans solution ». Sa traduction en « réponse accompagnée pour tous » et sa déclinaison opérationnelle par la mise en œuvre de Plans d’Accompagnement Globalisés (PAG) imposent des changements dans les organisations, les pratiques professionnelles et l’offre de service des établissements médico-sociaux. À partir des apports théoriques, nous nous intéresserons aux résistances au changement organisationnel. Nous identifierons les causes, manifestations de la résistance au changement ainsi que les stratégies managériales mobilisables pour les lever. Nous chercherons ensuite comment les managers peuvent accompagner le changement organisationnel lors de la mise en œuvre d’un PAG. Une recherche qualitative appuyée sur l’analyse d’entretiens de managers en Instituts Médico Educatifs (IME) permettra de confronter les concepts aux réalités décrites. Nous proposerons enfin des leviers s’appuyant sur de nouveaux outils technologiques et de nouvelles pratiques professionnelles, pour conduire le changement.
Le manager-coach au service de la coopération des équipes en EHPAD
Authors: Parmantier Ambre
Published: March 2022

Aujourd’hui, l’évolution du degré de dépendance des résidents accueillis en EHPAD nécessite que les équipes travaillent dans la pluridisciplinarité. Elles sont cependant épuisées par la crise sanitaire, démotivées, en quête de sens, ce qui nuit fortement à la cohésion. L’encadrement doit donc porter une attention particulière à ses collaborateurs et créer une dynamique collective de coopération. Il doit comprendre leurs dimensions émotionnelles tout en leur donnant le sens du collectif, il doit être bienveillant et cadrant, il doit être coach. Ainsi, notre travail de recherche explore la posture et les pratiques managériales spécifiques du leader coach. L’objectif est d’identifier les leviers à la coopération que le manager-coach actionne, et d’en mesurer les impacts positifs sur les équipes.
Le management de proximité à distance : Les facteurs clé de la réussite
Authors: Le Bris Sébastien
Published: March 2022

Le travail à distance n’est pas un phénomène nouveau et se développe sous différentes formes sous l’impulsion des techniques d’information et de communication. Le monde hospitalier n’y échappe pas. Emblématiques de cette situation, les cadres de pôle sont à distance des équipes. Ils mettent en œuvre un management incarné et opérationnel pour permettre l’organisation des soins. Le contexte sanitaire qui nous tient a éclairé cette mise à distance, l’a parfois accéléré de façon rapide. Entre avantages, intérêt croissant ou obligation réglementaire, l’équation s’avère compliquée à résoudre pour les managers du soin. La question des leviers à mobiliser pour concilier distance et proximité est donc posée. Pour y répondre, nous avons procédé à une enquête en nous appuyant sur dix entretiens semi directifs. Si nos résultats corroborent le recours aux leviers opérationnels et relationnels, ils mettent surtout en évidence la nécessité d’un management situationnel pour réunir distance organisationnelle et proximité relationnelle.
La démocratie sanitaire
Authors: Tabuteau Didier
Published: March 2022

La notion de « démocratie sanitaire », apparue dans les années 2000 et consacrée par la loi Kouchner du 4 mars 2002, a progressivement constitué un cadre juridique et sociétal donnant une place accrue aux personnes malades, et plus généralement aux usagers du système de santé et aux associations les représentant. Ce cadre a été régulièrement conforté par le législateur mais la pratique de la démocratie sanitaire suscite toujours des réticences et rencontre de nombreux obstacles.
La démocratie sanitaire à l’épreuve
Authors: Bergeron Henri
Published: March 2022

Il n’est pas question de faire ici un bilan, du point de vue de la sociologie et de la science politique, de la mise en œuvre la loi du 4 mars 2002, laquelle couvre de très nombreux aspects, qu’il est difficile de traiter dans ce court espace et pour lequel les données empiriques (nous) manquent. Mais, sur la base de revues (non exhaustives), réalisées en 2007, 2013 et 2015 [1-3], nous aimerions formuler quelques hypothèses concernant les conditions de réalisation des droits individuels, en particulier le droit à l’information et le consentement éclairé. Nous aimerions également rappeler certains constats qu’établit la sociologie des mouvements de patients concernant leur inégale influence en politique. Sur la base de ces rappels et à partir des quelques réflexions que nous constituons actuellement dans le cadre d’une recherche financée par l’Agence nationale de recherche sur la gestion française de la crise du Covid [4], nous tenterons enfin de cerner de quelles manières la crise épidémique contemporaine met à l’épreuve la démocratie sanitaire, qui fête aujourd’hui ses vingt ans.
La démocratie en santé : origines, bilan et perspectives
Authors: Raymond Gérard
Published: March 2022

Ce texte propose de retracer les origines du mouvement de la démocratie en santé, d’en faire un premier bilan synthétique, puis de cibler quelques perspectives d’évolution. Sur le plan réglementaire et législatif, de solides fondations ont été posées, ce qui ne garantit pas le fonctionnement effectif de la démocratie en santé au niveau national et dans les territoires. Dans certaines instances, l’animation de la démocratie est un exercice délicat, pour de multiples raisons, notamment liées aux rigidités historiques du système de santé. Cependant, de nombreuses perspectives, notamment technologiques et organisationnelles, s’offrent aux acteurs de la démocratie en santé pour renouveler leurs pratiques.
Les étudiants en mobilité internationale face au coronavirus
Authors: Jovelin Emmanuel
Published: March 2022

Depuis la fin de l’année 2019 et jusqu’à aujourd’hui, le monde fait face à une des plus graves crises sanitaires depuis près d’un siècle, « l’épidémie mondiale du coronavirus », qui bouleverse l’humanité. Durant les différents confinements, le monde a parfois cessé de tourner et certains ont été piégés dans les pays dans lesquels ils se trouvaient (nationaux ou internationaux), au-delà des difficultés vécues durant cet « enfermement ». Cet article relate les expériences de onze étudiants, préparant un master international des migrations, en mobilité Erasmus à l’université catholique de Lille. Provenant d’Espagne, ils sont arrivés à Lille début mars 2020, pour commencer les cours, mais une semaine après, le président de la République française décrétait le confinement, en confrontant ces étudiants à un dilemme : retourner en Espagne, en Italie, en Colombie, au Brésil, en Allemagne, ou rester en France ?
Retentissement psychologique de la pandémie sur les individus et les organisations collectives
Authors: Mauger Didier , Riffault Jacques
Published: March 2022

La crise sanitaire de 2020 a révélé des mécanismes psychiques et sociétaux de nature adaptative, convoquant une forme d’endurance psychique inédite. Confinés de la première heure, professionnels en première ligne déplacés dans un autre établissement médico-social à qui ont été assignées de nouvelles fonctions, prérogatives ou tâches, cantonnés chez eux en télétravail, culpabilisés de ne pouvoir se sentir utiles, etc. : la multiplicité de situations a occasionné récits, témoignages et points de vue contrastés, mâtinés d’affects profonds. Derrière les mots se logent à bas bruit les angoisses existentielles de tout un chacun ainsi que des étapes-clés du retentissement de la pandémie sur les mentalités : sidération, adaptation réactionnelle, résilience, sur-adaptation, atteinte des idéaux professionnels. Le verbatim des propos recueillis lors de divers dispositifs d’écoute esquisse un début de cartographie des préoccupations, sentiments et affects des professionnels du secteur médico-social durant les différentes phases de cette période inédite.
Safety and tolerance of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei N1115 in caesarean-born young children: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ren Z. , Zhao A. , Zhang J. , Yang C. , Zhong W. , Mao S. , Wang S. , Yuan Q. , Wang P. , Zhang Y.
Published: March 2022

The administration of probiotics may help to improve dysbiosis and related health problems in children delivered by caesarean section. However, the effects are strain specific, and safety combined tolerance are considered a priority. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and tolerance of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei N1115 in caesarean-born children aged 6-24 months via a randomised, placebo-controlled intervention study. In total, 101 children were included and randomised to receive either a sachet of L. paracasei N1115 (2×1010 cfu/g, 2 g/day) or placebo (maltodextrin, 2 g/day) per day for 12 weeks. Anthropometric parameters were measured by trained nurses, and defecation characteristics, gastrointestinal symptoms, (serious) adverse events ((s)AEs), crying patterns and lifestyle behaviours were recorded by parents or guardians. Neurocognitive development was assessed by the Ages and Stages Questionnaires-3 (ASQ-3) before and after the intervention. The only difference between groups regarding defecation characteristics was a significant treatment × time effect on stool frequency (P=0.007), as the number of defecations was significantly higher in the probiotic group (around 1.2-1.3 times/day) than in the placebo group (around 1.0 times/day) in the later intervention period (P=0.035 at week 9; P=0.048 at week 10; P=0.026 at week 12). The use of L. paracasei N1115 also reduced the incidence rate of constipation (Incidence rate ratio (IRR): 0.120; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.015, 0.967; P=0.046) and abdominal pain (IRR: 0.562; 95% CI: 0.358, 0.882; P=0.012). Changes in anthropometric parameters, including weight, height and head circumference, did not differ significantly between groups, nor did measures of crying, sleep, outdoor activity, temper, appetite or the ASQ-3 scores. No adverse events associated with consumption of the probiotic were reported. Thus, the administration of L. paracasei N1115 is safe and well-tolerated in caesarean-born children aged 6-24 months. Furthermore, it may ameliorate gastrointestinal function to some extent.
A randomised controlled trial between hamstring muscle tightness and lumbar lordotic angle
Authors: Kachanathu S.J. , AlAbdulwahab S.S. , Hafez A.R. , Aldaihan M.M. , Nuhmani S. , Rizvi M.R.
Published: March 2022

Shortening of the hamstring muscles is a common problem in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Low back pain and injury caused by postural deficits might be caused by an imbalance of this muscle. The various degrees of hamstring muscle stiffness and its impact on trunk postures are relatively unknown. The goal of this study was to see how different hamstring muscle length (HML) ranges influenced lumbar lordotic angle (LLA). Sixty asymptomatic healthy male and female subjects with a mean age of 40.4±9.2 years and a body mass index of 25.5± 2.2 kg/m2 participated in this study. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups (n=20) with hamstring muscle lengths of 111-120 degrees, 121-130 degrees, or 131-140 degrees, respectively by using a random number generator. The LLA was estimated on a lateral lumbosacral radiograph using the Kinovea application, and hamstring muscle length was measured using the active knee extension test at the university’s rehabilitation centre within a week of subject selection. The Pearson correlation test was used to examine the relationship between LLA and HML, and one-way ANOVA was used to compare the two groups. The correlation coefficients were expressed using 95% confidence intervals. A significant relationship between LLA and HML was observed in 111-120 degrees and 121-130 degrees groups (P<0.05), whereas, the HML >130 degrees group had no influence on LLA (P>0.05). The findings show that hamstring muscle tightness between 111 and 130 degrees has a negative impact on lumbar curvature mechanisms. As a result, hamstring muscle tightness less than 130 degrees should be addressed first in clinical stretching programs for patients. The findings also suggest that instead of focusing on HML, rehabilitation specialists should devote more time to other high-priority interventions, particularly in patients with hamstring muscle lengths greater than 130 degrees.
Impact of COVID-19 on the environment sector: a case study of Central Visayas, Philippines
Authors: Galon Clare Maristela V. , Esguerra James G.
Published: March 2022

The pandemic has underscored the importance of the environment. In this study, the environmental condition of Central Visayas, Philippines has been assessed and evaluated before and during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to deal with a possible association between the environmental indicators and the pandemic. The relationships between environmental key variables namely: air quality, air pollution, water quality, water pollution, and solid waste management have been quantified. The study utilized secondary data sources from a review of records from government agencies and LGUs in Region 7. This study also provides a framework which is the pandemics and epidemics in environmental aspects. The paper concludes by offering researchers and policymakers to promote changes in environmental policies and provide some recommendations for adequately controlling future pandemic and epidemic threats in Central Visayas, Philippines.
Quasiconformal model with CNN features for large deformation image registration
Authors: Law Ho , Choi Gary P. T. , Lam Ka Chun , Lui Lok Ming
Published: March 2022

Image registration has been widely studied over the past several decades, with numerous applications in science, engineering and medicine. Most of the conventional mathematical models for large deformation image registration rely on prescribed landmarks, which usually require tedious manual labeling. In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in the use of machine learning for image registration. In this paper, we develop a novel method for large deformation image registration by a fusion of quasiconformal theory and convolutional neural network (CNN). More specifically, we propose a quasiconformal energy model with a novel fidelity term that incorporates the features extracted using a pre-trained CNN, thereby allowing us to obtain meaningful registration results without any guidance of prescribed landmarks. Moreover, unlike many prior image registration methods, the bijectivity of our method is guaranteed by quasiconformal theory. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. More broadly, our work sheds light on how rigorous mathematical theories and practical machine learning approaches can be integrated for developing computational methods with improved performance.
Reconstruction of singularities in two-dimensional quasi-linear biharmonic operator
Authors: Kultima Jaakko , Serov Valery
Published: March 2022

The inverse backscattering Born approximation for two-dimensional quasi-linear biharmonic operator is studied. We prove the precise formulae for the first nonlinear term of the Born sequence. We prove also that all other terms in this sequence are \begin{document}$ H^t- $\end{document}functions for any \begin{document}$ t<1 $\end{document}. These formulae and estimates allow us to conclude that all main singularities of a certain combination of unknown coefficients, in particular, \begin{document}$ L^p- $\end{document}singularities for \begin{document}$ 2\le p<\infty $\end{document}, can be uniquely reconstructed using the inverse backscattering Born approximation. In addition, it is shown that the jumps (\begin{document}$ L^{\infty}- $\end{document}singularities) over smooth curves are uniquely determined by the backscattering data and can be recovered from the Born approximation. We present a numerical method for the reconstruction of these singularities.
On substructures of semigroups of inductive terms
Authors: Kitpratyakul Pongsakorn , Pibaljommee Bundit
Published: March 2022

An inductive composition is an operation generalizing from a superposition $ S^n $ on the set of all $ n $-ary terms of type $ \tau $. A binary operation called inductive product is obtainable from such composition. It is a generalization of a tree language product but on the set of all $ n $-ary terms of type $ \tau $. Unlike the original one, this inductive product is not associative on the mentioned set. Nonetheless, it turns to be associative on some restricted set. A semigroup arising in this way is the main focus of this paper. We consider its special subsemigroups and semigroup factorizations.
La rivalité mimétique, une matrice de la guerre contre le terrorisme et de ses stratégies discursives ?
Authors: Bigo Didier , Bonnefoy Laurent , Delori Mathias , Tsoukala Anastassia , Wasinski Christophe
Published: March 2022

La guerre contre le « terrorisme » ne fait pas que détruire ; elle crée aussi des liens de réciprocité entre les acteurs du conflit : réciprocité des sentiments moraux, des identités et surtout des pratiques concrètes. L’argument développé dans cet article est que la théorie de la rivalité mimétique de René Girard permet de saisir ces dynamiques qui rendent non seulement improbable la fin du conflit mais contribuent aussi à son escalade. La théorie de la rivalité mimétique révèle le rôle joué par la structuration des discours et des identités au cours de la relation violente, l’incapacité croissante des acteurs à comprendre les motifs d’action de leurs adversaires et l’extension du champ de la rivalité. Elle constitue un antidote par rapport aux explications qui radicalisent les identités en refusant et en s’offusquant des ressemblances qui émergent du combat. Elle constitue aussi une antithèse aux explications par la géopolitique des cultures et des civilisations qui nourrissent la méconnaissance des dynamiques de la violence.
Les interventions militaires sont-elles une cause du « terrorisme » ?
Authors: Delori Mathias , Egger Clara , Magni-Berton Raul , Varaine Simon
Published: March 2022

Une multitude d’études quantitatives ont conclu que l’interventionnisme militaire est un facteur explicatif central du terrorisme. Pourtant, cette littérature est rarement mobilisée dans le champ des études francophones. Ce point aveugle semble découler d’une méfiance par rapport aux soubassements positivistes de ces études quantitatives et leur manque apparent de réflexivité par rapport à la notion de terrorisme. Ce texte présente l’argument selon lequel cette méfiance est en partie fondée mais qu’elle se dissipe si l’on adopte une définition nominaliste du « terrorisme ». On ne mesure pas alors le poids de l’interventionnisme militaire sur le terrorisme au sens strictement réaliste du terme – cet objet est de toute façon impossible à cerner – mais sur la genèse de ce que le discours hégémonique appelle « terrorisme », à savoir les attaques violentes des groupes non-étatiques que ce même discours qualifie de « terroristes ».
Juger le terrorisme : Une ethnographie à la Cour d’assises spécialement composée de Paris
Authors: Weill Sharon
Published: March 2022

En France, depuis 2015, nous assistons à un flux d’affaires terroristes inédit dans l’histoire moderne de la justice pénale. Dans leur routine professionnelle, les magistrats se retrouvent ainsi directement impliqués dans des enjeux géopolitiques de grande ampleur. C’est dans ce contexte que cet article vise à examiner leur rôle émergent d’acteurs transnationaux, la manière dont ces juges renforcent, protègent et promeuvent certains objectifs et visions politiques, et l’impact jurisprudentiel de ces décisions, tant au niveau national que transnational. Basé sur une approche ethnographique, où une équipe de recherche multidisciplinaire a observé en salle d’audience de nombreux procès de la Cour d’assises spécialement composée pour juger les affaires de terrorisme entre 2017 et 2020, cet article entend démontrer que la justice face au terrorisme est une justice à la frontière de la justice ordinaire, de la justice spécialisée et de la justice d’exception. Mais il s’agit également d’une justice où les juges d’audience ont un rôle important à jouer dans le développement d’une pratique alternative à la doctrine préventive et répressive.
Logiques centrifuges et centripètes dans les conflits armés contemporains : les reconfigurations de la « machine de guerre » ?
Authors: Olsson Christian
Published: March 2022

Une des lignes de force qui traversent la revue Cultures & Conflits depuis ses débuts a trait à l’épuisement relatif de l’heuristique clausewitzienne de « l’ascension aux extrêmes » de la guerre. Nous analysons ici les implications et la portée de ces analyses des conflits avec une vision rétrospective sur les trente années écoulées. Les concepts heuristiques de Clausewitz (duel, ascension, polarisation), et plus largement les modèles centripètes des conflits armés de la science politique contemporaine (d’un part celui des compétitions éliminatoires jusqu’au monopole territorial dans les guerres civiles, d’autre part celui des centralisations compétitives jusqu’à « l’indifférenciation fonctionnelle » des États dans les guerres internationales) doivent être considérablement complexifiées, si l’on veut comprendre les conflits multi-centrés contemporains de manière multi-scalaire. Dans la majorité de ceux-ci, forces centrifuges et centripètes coexistent et font s’entrelacer de multiples niveaux d’interaction politique, du « local » au « mondial ».
Aether dynamics: A theory of gravity
Authors: Atkinson Peter M. , Nlend Samuel
Published: March 2022

This paper proposes a new theory of gravity based on aether destruction. In the case of the earth, aether is destroyed within the earth. Aether then accelerates into the earth in an attempt to keep the aether pressure in the earth constant. Any object caught in the accelerating aether
flow will be accelerated in the direction of the accelerating aether flow. We suggest a mathematical model to demonstrate that there is a correlation between the aether acceleration and the force of gravity. The mathematical model assumes a porous-like atomic nucleus, in which the nucleons
are fixed in position, and a fluid-like aether that can infiltrate between the nucleons but is excluded from their interiors. This theory of gravity assumes that the aether particle interactions are perfectly elastic, and aether can easily penetrate the nucleus of atoms, as they are not affected
by electromagnetic or nuclear forces. The effect of gravity is almost entirely due to the fact that aether cannot penetrate the interior of nucleons. We offer a new model of the aether, which includes some new and important concepts that are essential to explain the cause and effect of gravity.
The reason why all objects fall at the same speed is explained, and the possible causes for the destruction of the aether are discussed. Since the aether destruction is proportional to the mass of the earth and is, therefore, a cubic relationship, the effect of the accelerating aether flow
(gravity) on an object caught in the accelerating aether flow depends on the surface area of the nucleons making up the object and is a square relationship, clarifying, thus, the dilemma cubic or square relationship.
Einstein on measurement theory: A heuristic point of view
Authors: Oldani Richard
Published: March 2022

Einstein did not contribute significantly to the quantum mechanics we are familiar with, but he did contribute to its theoretical foundations. In a seminal theory on black body radiation, he used two physically distinct sets of coordinates, a classical set to describe the continuity
of heat energy with Maxwell Boltzmann statistics and an atomic set to describe discrete energy states required by the Planck radiation law. His methods are extended here to reveal that matrix mechanics is an incomplete description of atomic structure. In addition to the discrete energy states
of the diagonal matrix elements, classically derived components of kinetic energy are necessary. We conclude that the diagonalized matrix elements and eigenvalues of the Schrödinger equation both describe characteristics of the steady states, but the physical variables they describe are
different, because they are measured with respect to different coordinate systems. Einstein’s assumptions lead to a resolution of the measurement problem by introducing statistical laws at the microscopic level.
Unified quantum gravity field equation describing the universe from the smallest to the cosmological scales
Authors: Haug Espen Gaarder
Published: March 2022

This paper introduces a new quantum gravity field equation that is derived from collision space‐time. It shows how changes in energy (collision-space) are linked to changes in matter (collision-time). This field equation can be written in several different forms. Gravity, at
the deepest level, is linked to change in gravitational energy over the Planck time. In our view, this is linked to the collision between two indivisible particles, and this collision has a duration of the Planck time, not by assumption, but from calibration. We also show how an equation of
the universe, which was recently derived from relativistic Newtonian theory, can also be derived directly from the unified quantum gravity field equation presented in this paper. This equation gives a new explanation for a cosmological redshift that does not seem to be related to expanding
space or the big bang hypothesis. Also, the approximately 13.9 × 109 years of the Hubble time do not seem to be at all related to the age of the universe but to the aggregated collision time of the particles making up the mass in the observable universe.
On fragility of psychokinetic (PK) effects in classical and quantum systems
Authors: Pradhan Rajat Kumar
Published: March 2022

The fragility of psychokinetic effects in classical and quantum systems is examined, and the limitations of verifiability and scientific scrutiny in mind‐matter systems are discussed in light of a T-symmetry breaking Hamiltonian approach. The repeatability criterion for scientific
verification in purely physical interacting systems fails for mind‐matter interaction experiments since it is difficult to isolate spurious undesirable mental influences.
A Dual-Role Collaborative Learning Support System for Simultaneous Speaking Acquisition in English and Japanese
Authors: Bui Anh , Nishimoto Kazushi
Published: March 2022

Learning a foreign language is becoming more vital in Japan as a result of globalization. It gives foreigners various reasons to study Japanese including working or living in Japan. They should exchange language and skills and generate opportunities for engagement. Assisting them in exchanging linguistic skills and knowledge is critical. This study first proposes a theoretical model of dual-role collaborative learning to improve second language learners' speaking skills. Learners will participate as facilitators in their native language and receivers in their second language. Some supporting features must be given, followed by a Computer-supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) named BiTak which is a video chat system that allows strict turn-taking dual-lingual conversation. The learner’s progress is positively evaluated by language teachers using a Rubric scoring framework. Based on the experiment results, it was concluded that BiTak has turned users' perspectives of video chat programs into collaborative learning platforms, allowing them to act as facilitators and receivers.
A Multi-Country Empirical Study of ICT-Induced Productivity Variances by Economic Magnitude and Industry
Authors: Arslan Faruk , Bagchi Kallol K. , Mukhopadhyay Somnath , Ablanedo-Rosas Jose Humberto
Published: March 2022

Global trends such as the prolonged decline in productivity growth and lower fertility rates across many regions have rendered productivity-led growth an important phenomenon. This paper investigates: 1) Does the effect of ICT use on firm-level productivity vary between firms operating in the manufacturing and services industry? 2) How does the country's economic magnitude influence the impact of ICT use on firm-level productivity in manufacturing and services firms? We incorporate the evaluation of the endogeneity issue for the generation of the final results using the 2SLS approach. Using a sample of 2407 manufacturing and service firms operating in 34 countries with diverse economic magnitude, we find that ICT use positively affects manufacturing firms' productivity compared to the service sector. Furthermore, we find that effect of ICT use on firm-level productivity is more potent for manufacturing firms operating in high-income countries when compared to their counterparts in lower-income countries.
Does IT Capability Facilitate Technology Agility?
Authors: Kim Seung Woon , Liu Yijun , Yi Wenxue
Published: March 2022

The prime objective of this study is to investigate how a firm's information technology (IT) capabilities facilitate its technological agility and competitive advantages. Drawing from the resource-based view and dynamic capability framework, we propose that information technology capability—IT infrastructure, IT operations, IT personnel, and IT investment—play an essential role in a firm's ability to sense and adopt new technologies to exploit subsequent opportunities. Then, the study conceptualizes enterprises' ability to sense and respond to new technologies with technological agility and tests the hypotheses of a sample of 731 South Korean businesses. The results indicate that IT infrastructure, IT operations, and IT personnel all have a significant positive effect on technological agility and that technological agility can promote firm performance. Furthermore, the empirical result shows that IT investment contributes to improvements in technology sensing but does not affect technology adoption.
3D Printing Technology and Materials for Automotive Application: A Mini-Review
Authors: Tuazon Brian Jumaquio , Custodio Nick Anthony V. , Basuel Rex B. , Delos Reyes Lanz Andre , Dizon John Ryan C.
Published: March 2022

Additive Manufacturing has made significant progress for numerous applications, especially in the automotive industry. Various approaches have been developed to improve and expand its application throughout the manufacturing line and produce reliable and suitable components for automotive applications. A brief overview of different 3D printing methods and materials currently used in the automotive industry is covered in this review. The advantages and drawbacks it brings to the industry, and material developments for 3D printing application for automotive is presented. The future outlook is given, and challenges that are needed to be addressed are discussed.
Comparative Seismic Behavior the Retrofit of 60year Old Hospital between CFRP Materials and Concrete Walls by Nonlinear Static Analysis
Authors: Criales Xiomara , Altamirano Anilu Gianella , Huaco Cardenas Guillermo
Published: March 2022

The Casimiro Ulloa Hospital is a confined masonry structure more than 60 years old that does not satisfy the requirements of the Peruvian seismic code E.030 and it is located at high seismic zone. Therefore, this hospital is susceptible to collapse and becomes an essential deficient structure. Therefore, the present study is based on a comparative analysis between reinforced concrete wall and CFRP sheets through the nonlinear Push Over method in order to obtain which is the best reinforcement in structural capacity. The reinforcement with eight L-shaped concrete walls of 15 cm thick located at the corners of the structure, increased the strength of the hospital by 115% in longitudinal direction (Axis X) and 108% in transversal direction (Axis Y), and also increased the ductility by 3% and 117% in the directions respectively. The other reinforcement was carried out with CFRP sheets and anchors. The sheets were designed with a width of 9 inches and were placed in an X-shape in the masonry load-bearing walls and the anchors were implemented in the corners of the laminate walls in order to ensure adequate load transfer between the sheets and the surface. This reinforcement increased the strength of the structure by 345% in axis X and 150% in axis Y and increased the ductility by 59% in longitudinal direction and 331% in transversal direction.
Investigation of the Influence of Selective Laser Melting Process Parameters on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of 18Ni-300 Maraging Steel
Authors: Law Wee King , Wu Zi Yang , Wong Kok Cheong , Wang Hao Liang , Sun Zhen Zhong , Lim Chin Seong
Published: March 2022

The influence of SLM process parameters (i.e. laser power, scanning speed, and hatch spacing) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of 3D printed 18Ni-300 maraging steel was investigated. In experiments on 3D printed scan tracks, better fusion of powder material was achieved in parameter configurations with higher linear energy density (i.e. LED ≥ 375.00 J m-1). A higher LED indicates that more laser energy is transferred to the powder material, resulting in complete melting of the powder and the creation of a microstructure with less defects. In experiments on fully built samples, higher relative density was achieved when the hatch spacing was increased or the scanning speed was decreased. Fully built samples produced using parameter configuration B-2 (300 W, 700 mm s-1, 0.10 mm) have higher relative density and ultimate tensile strength as compared to the other parameter configurations.
Inkjet-Printed Three-Electrode System on Flexible Substrate for Low-Cost Electrochemical Analysis
Authors: Pauco Jiena Lynne R. , Enriquez Erwin P.
Published: March 2022

Inkjet printing (IJP) has emerged as a promising additive manufacturing technique for fabrication of electrodes and sensors due to its cost-effectiveness compared to the traditional techniques, such as screen-printing. In this work, we present a planar, three-electrode system fabricated by inkjet printing on a polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) flexible substrate for rapid voltametric electrochemical analysis. An in-house formulation of aqueous-based gold ink with low temperature-sintering was used in printing the working and counter electrodes. The reference electrode was also inkjet-printed using a commercial silver ink and chlorinated to form an AgCl layer. Cyclic voltammetry studies using the ferri/ferrocyanide redox couple showed that the inkjet-printed electrode system has a comparable electrochemical performance to a commercial screen-printed electrode. Fabrication of a single inkjet-printed electrochemical 3-electrode platform consumes only about 0.5 mg Au and 0.2 mg Ag loading of ink with minimal waste during fabrication because of the additive nature of the printing technique. The 3-electrode platform operates with a microliter sample volume for analysis and can be used in aqueous media without delamination.
Effect of Graphene Addition to Lithium-Based Grease on the Performance of Rolling Element Bearings
Authors: Nassef Belal G. , El-Labban Hashem , Al-Oufy Affaf , Daha Mohamed A.
Published: March 2022

Recent research attempts have shown that graphene as a lubricant nanoadditive provides excellent tribological behaviour in mechanical applications due to its outstanding properties represented in its self-lubricating nature. In this work, a set of deep groove ball bearings lubricated using lithium-based grease mixed with different contents of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were tested through a specially designed test rig under different loading conditions. The rGO additions were varied to include 0.5, 1, 2, 3.5, and 5 wt.%. The consumed power is introduced for the first time as a measure of lubrication efficiency. The results demonstrate that the addition of rGO reduces the consumed power required to drive the rotor under the applied test load. The most considerable power saving is obtained after adding 2wt.% rGO to grease, which has reduced the consumed power down to about one-fourth of that consumed using grease only. Also, the vibration levels were measured and analysed for each lubrication and loading condition.
Environmental Friendly Lightweight Artificial Aggregates through Industrial Waste Stabilization
Authors: Salzano Cinzia , Farina Ilenia , Moccia Ivan , Ruggiero Marco , Colangelo Francesco , Cioffi Raffaele
Published: March 2022

The production of lightweight artificial aggregates proposed in this study derives from industrial waste recovery activities, such as fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag. The aim is to reduce the compromise of the environment and human health, through the recycling of special waste. The use of inert aggregates from recovery from industrial waste encourages the reduction of soil consumption, the waste of natural aggregates, consequently limiting the consumption of waste materials from quarries, as well as facilitating the recovery of waste that would inevitably end up in landfilled or abandoned in the environment. Specifically, in the present work, the lightweight artificial aggregates were produced by cold bonding granulation technique. All the mixtures, made by 80% of FA with various composition of cement and granulated blast furnace slag, were characterized by density values ranging from 1.63 to 1.66 g cm-3 suggesting their suitable classification as lightweight aggregates (LWAs). Water absorption capacity (WAC) and open porosity values decreased with the increase of the percentage in cement. The impact test results indicate that all the aggregates have proved to be suitable as filling for road pavements. The best crushing strength values (1.86 MPa) were observed for the mixture contain the highest amount of cement. Aggregate leaching tests indicated a significant release of chlorides and sulphates while the release of heavy metals was lower than the limits set by the standard UNI 10802.
Environmental Assessment of Concretes Containing Construction and Demolition Waste
Authors: Moccia Ivan , Farina Ilenia , Salzano Cinzia , Ruggiero Marco , Petrillo Antonella , Colangelo Francesco , Cioffi Raffaele
Published: March 2022

The recycling of construction and demolition waste (CDW) is currently of growing interest. Starting from such waste products it’s possible to produce recycled aggregates for construction purposes providing environmental and economic advantages. Life-cycle assessment (LCA) is a valuable tool to evaluate the environmental impact at end of life of CDW and improve the employment of recycled aggregates in concrete. In this research a life cycle evaluation of concrete mixtures made with CDW is performed to assess their environmental impacts considering various scenarios related to recycling sites with different conveying distances. The advantages of replacing natural aggregates with recycled ones are evaluated using a combination of LCA model and Life-Cycle Impact Assessment to estimate the environmental effects for all the considered scenarios. The results highlighted the highest environmental impact for the scenario with total landfill as well as an increasing impact for increasing distance from the demolition site.
Eco-Friendly Concretes with Recycled Plastic Aggregates
Authors: Ruggiero Marco , Farina Ilenia , Salzano Cinzia , Moccia Ivan , Colangelo Francesco , Fraternali Fernando , Cioffi Raffaele
Published: March 2022

Every year, in the world, the produced quantities of plastic amount to approximately 400 million tons. This implies a high level of plastic pollution and a growing decrease of available natural resources. Therefore, seems to be clear that there is a need to act in such a way as to reduce plastic pollution, safeguard natural resources and prevent the disposition of great quantities of waste in landfills or, even worse, the discharging into marine waters. This explains the need to implement processes of recovery and recycling of this plastic waste and their reuse in operable and practical products. Many studies analyzed the chances of employing plastic waste to produce cement and concrete, but the research about the use of polyolefins for the production of lightweight concretes is still limited. This study shows that the use of recycled polyolefins as substitutes of natural aggregates is a viable solution for the production of lightweight concretes by analyzing the influence of this kind of plastic on mechanical, physical and thermal performance, through experimental tests performed on four samples containing different amounts of plastic aggregates.
Effects of Cooling Conditions on Mechanical Properties and Wear Performance of JIS S45C Steel Coated by Wire Arc Spray
Authors: Sangsuriyun Montri , Sangsuriyun Sawinee
Published: March 2022

The study of the effects of cooling conditions on mechanical properties and wear performance by coating AISI S45C steel with Chrome Nickel Amorphous wire arc spray showed that the average surface hardness of specimens under different cooling conditions such as SCCW, SCCO, SCCS and SCCNT was 601.6 HV, while the surface hardness of HAZ of SCCS and SCCW specimens decreased to 80-90 HV. The tensile test revealed that the average ultimate tensile strength of coated specimens was 706 MPa which was slightly higher than that of uncoated specimens. This result is consistent with Tukey’s one-way ANOVA method, which found a significant difference in tensile strength values at 0.05 and 0.01 levels. For wear resistance, coated specimens showed higher wear resistance compared to uncoated specimens. Overall, the results of this study showed that wire arc spray coating could increase the strength and stress and decrease %elongation of the specimens. Therefore, this technique is suitable for maintenance work to increase the strength of steel in the industry.
Fabrication of Highly Conducting Ag2S Thin Films on FTO Substrate by Using SILAR
Authors: Kakade B.N. , Sali K.R. , Bavane R.G. , Gosavi N.M. , Gosavi Sunil R.
Published: March 2022

Highly conducting Ag2S thin films were synthesized on FTO substrates at room temperature using simple and versatile successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method. SILAR method was used to deposit silver sulfide (Ag2S) thin films of about 299 nm thickness, under optimized deposition conditions viz. SILAR cycles (50), immersion time (25 s), and rinsing time (15 s). X-ray diffraction (XRD) study indicates the formation of polycrystalline Ag2S with preferential orientation along (1 0 0) plane. Field emmission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) will be used for study of the surface morphology of materials synthesized in thin film form. FESEM images showed that the deposited Ag2S thin films were homogenous, without cracks and with dense surface morphology covering entire substrate surface area. Compositional analysis showed that the Ag2S thin film becomes sulphur deficient and silver richer. Electrical studies showed that the deposited Ag2S films are highly conducting and can be used in photosensor and/or optoelectronic devices.
Correlation between CBR Values and Index Properties of Soils: A Case Study of Oman
Authors: Ibrahim Osama Ragab , Alshehhi Wafaa , Alhindasi Hajer , Alkalbani Amal , Almahrezi Fatema , Masria Ali Mohammed
Published: March 2022

Pavement materials have developed significantly through many stages until they have reached what they are now. Despite the fact that there are many samples found in Oman which are not used or neglected, there are lots of natural samples can be depleted because of its huge use like the natural materials. Basically, the frequent’ use has a negative impact on nature. Accordingly, this study is going to shed lights on some considered samples that exist but are not used called waste products under some justifications and tests of particular samples classified as coarse-grained soil (coastal material, waste brick construction, desert sand) through some methodologies: Grain Sieve Analysis, Atterberg Limit Test, Clay Content Test, Proctor Compaction Test, and California Bearing Ratio test. The mechanical properties of these samples are tested to evaluate their efficiency and effectiveness in the paving layers. The most important parameter used in the evaluation process is the CBR and the sieve analysis. As a final result, it turns out that most of the samples are not complied with Oman's specifications for subbase and base use but some materials like Khour Al-Hamam can be modified using additive materials to be suitable.
Effect of Temperature on Dielectric Parameters of Ferroelectric Materials at Microwave Frequency
Authors: Bongane Bhagwan K. , Gavali Prashant G.
Published: March 2022

The composite materials of ST & BT ceramics were prepared by using solid state reaction method. The dielectric parameters of ST & BT ceramics of particle size 125 micron like dielectric constant (ε'), loss (ε"), quality factor (QxF), relaxation time (τ) and conductivity (σ) has been studied at different temperatures i.e. -10°C, +10°C, +30°C and +50°C. the values of dielectric parameters are found greeter of ST then BT but the relaxation time of ST is found smaller than BT.
Sustainability of Heavily Loaded Raft Foundations on Granular Soils of Arabian Peninsula with Soft Clay Layer
Authors: Farooq Qazi Umar , Qureshi Mohsin Usman
Published: March 2022

Sandy soil formations are widespread around the globe, particularly in the Arabian Peninsula. The Sandy formations were created as a result of long-term geological activities including but not limited to alluvial and wind deposition. Since the alluvial deposits contain fine soils, the clay layers are often intercepted in the foundation supporting strata. The geotechnical foundation design based on field and lab investigations usually relies on the average response of the layered strata and can satisfy both shear and settlement criteria. However, the enduring sustainability of the heavily loaded foundations is required to be investigated in detail. In this study FEM based numerical investigations have been carried out on a thin raft foundation resting on granular soil, with a soft clay layer in the influence zone. The COMSOL Multi-physics platform has been used for the analysis. The study cases are planned based on the thickness of the clay layer and building load. The analysis results predict the risk involved in the sustainability of rafts in terms of the settlement. The field engineers and designers are recommended to consider the risk and plan accordingly
Designing Low-Cost Arduino Powered Spin Coater for Thin Film Deposition
Authors: Murthy Mora Narasimha , Ravinder G. , Sreelatha C.J.
Published: March 2022

In the present work, we have designed a low-cost spin coater using the Arduino Uno board. The advantage of selecting Ardunio is, it has pulse width modulation (PWM) based pins. Depending on the width of the pulse, the output voltage changes which will intern changes the speed of the DC motor connected to the PWM pin. The thickness of deposited film using spin coater depends on RPM and duration of rotation. The rotation of the substrate during deposition has three stages a gradual increase in RPM, maintaining constant RPM over a while, and a gradual decrease in RPM. All these parameters can be controlled by an Arduino board. An Aluminum doped Zinc Oxide film was deposited on glass substrate using Arduino based spin coater. X-ray diffraction, UV – VIS spectroscopy, and FTIR methods were used as characterization techniques. Hexagonal crystal structure of deposited AZO layer was confirmed by XRD and optical band gap, transparency were calculated by UV-VIS spectroscopy.