bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Density of Patient-Sharing Networks: Impact on the Value of Parkinson Care
Authors: Vlaanderen Floris P. , de Man Yvonne , Tanke Marit A. C. , Munneke Marten , Atsma Femke , Meinders Marjan J. , Jeurissen Patrick P. T. , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Krijthe Jesse H. , Groenewoud Stef
Published: April 2021

Background: Optimal care for Parkinson’s disease (PD) requires coordination and collaboration between providers within a complex care network. Individual patients have personalised networks of their own providers, creating a unique informal network of providers who treat (‘share’) the same patient. These ‘patient-sharing networks’ differ in density, ie, the number of identical patients they share. Denser patient-sharing networks might reflect better care provision, since providers who share many patients might have made efforts to improve their mutual care delivery. We evaluated whether the density of these patient-sharing networks affects patient outcomes and costs. Methods: We analysed medical claims data from all PD patients in the Netherlands between 2012 and 2016. We focused on seven professional disciplines that are commonly involved in Parkinson care. We calculated for each patient the density score: the average number of patients that each patient’s providers shared. Density scores could range from 1.00 (which might reflect poor collaboration) to 83.00 (which might reflect better collaboration). This score was also calculated at the hospital level by averaging the scores for all patients belonging to a specific hospital. Using logistic and linear regression analyses we estimated the relationship between density scores and health outcomes, healthcare utilization, and healthcare costs. Results: The average density score varied considerably (average 6.7, SD 8.2). Adjusted for confounders, higher density scores were associated with a lower risk of PD-related complications (odds ratio [OR]: 0.901; P<.001) and with lower healthcare costs (coefficients: -0.018, P=.005). Higher density scores were associated with more frequent involvement of neurologists (coefficient 0.068), physiotherapists (coefficient 0.052) and occupational therapists (coefficient 0.048) (P values all <.001). Conclusion: Patient sharing networks showed large variations in density, which appears unwanted as denser networks are associated with better outcomes and lower costs.
Study of anticancer activity of cecropin B on 7, 12-dimethylbenz (a) anthracene-induced breast cancer
Authors: Ghandehari Fereshte , Fatemi Mahnoosh
Published: April 2021

Background and aims: Antimicrobial peptides constitute a family of bioactive peptides that are involved in the body defense. Recently, their anti-cancer properties, especially by inducing apoptosis, have been proven in in vitro studies. Therefore, in this study, the effects of cecropin B as an antimicrobial peptide on breast cancer growth, hematological parameters, and histopathological changes in rats were evaluated. Methods: Twenty-four female rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. The cancer group, control group, cecropin B group, and cancer group treated with cecropin B. The tumor size was measured at the beginning and the completion of the treatment period. Blood samples were collected for assessment of the hematological parameters and Bax and Bcl2 levels. Tumor tissues were removed for histopathological analysis. Results: The tumor size had a significant increase in the cancer group and cancer group treated with cecropin at the end of the treatment. A significant decrease in mean cell volume, white blood cell count and Bcl2 level and a significant increase in hemoglobin and Bax levels were observed in the cancer group treated with cecropin B compared to cancer group. Changes in other parameters were not significant. Histopathological study showed the invasion of mitotic cells to stromal and muscular tissues of the breast in the cancer group, while focal destruction of tissue and cell death were observed in the cancer group treated with cecropin B. Conclusion: The results showed that cecropin B has been able to reduce tumor growth and have little side effects on hematologic factors probably through apoptosis.
The effects of personalized sprint interval training and combined aerobic endurance and resistance training on insulin resistance and glycated hemoglobin in women with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ghaedi Hadi , Takesh Siamak , Banitalebi Ebrahim
Published: April 2021

Background and aims: Exercise training is a well-established therapeutic tool for treating type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study is to examine the beneficial effects of personalized sprint interval training (SIT) and combined aerobic endurance and resistance training (Com) on insulin resistance and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) concentration in women with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Fifty-two overweight female type 2 diabetic patients (age 45-60 years and body mass index [BMI] > 30) with HbA1c value of 6.5% or higher and fasting blood glucose (FBG) ≥ 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) were selected. Participants were recruited from patients filed in the outpatient department of Shahrekord Hospital (Shahrekord, Iran) in 2016. The participants were assigned to SIT (n=17), Com (n=17), and control groups (n=18) according to HbA1c levels. The exercises included 10 weeks of Com and SIT. Results: HbA1c concentrations decreased significantly in SIT (P=0.002) and Com (P=0.006) groups. The dependent t-test revealed that differences were significant for the FBG in the SIT groups (P<0.001). Serum insulin levels showed significant increases in the SIT (P<0.001) and Com (P<0.001) groups. Data showed significant differences in homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in SIT (P<0.001) and Com (P<0.001) groups. The analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) test showed significant differences in serum insulin (F=3.622, P=0.02) and HOMA-IR (F=5.511, P=0.0001) levels and no significant difference in HbA1c (F=0.597, P=0.556) and FBG concentrations (F=1.853, P=0.171). Conclusion: Results highlight that individualized exercise training, independent of the mode of training, is effective in improving glycemic control in overweight patients with type 2 diabetes.
Estimation of life expectancy and measurement of immature stages ofLucilia sericatafed on three kinds of diets
Authors: Dehghan Omid , Tabaie Seyed Mehdi , Rafinejad Javad , Azarmi Sahar , Rahimi Forooshani Abbas , Rafinejad Atiyeh , Akbarzadeh Kamran
Published: April 2021

Background and Objectives: Finding the best diet is very important to rear Lucilia sericata larvae for therapeutic purposes and prepare standard curves in forensic entomology. The aim of this study was to find the best diet for larvae in maggot therapy. Furthermore, this study was conducted to obtain a vertical life table and measure the length and width of immature stages of L. sericata for forensic entomology. Materials and Methods: Larvae of L. sericata (Karaj strain) were used to evaluate diets. The tests were carried out in three replicates of 100 eggs for each diet including chicken liver, blood agar, and fish food at the same time. Independent t-test, ANOVA, and Tukey’s post-hoc tests were used to compare the mean length and width of larvae between different groups. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered significance level. Results: In contrast to the first and the second larval instars, there was a significant difference in the mean length and width of the third instar larvae (P<0.001). At the third instar larval stage, those larvae that had been fed on chicken liver were significantly larger than the others. There were also no significant differences between life expectancy, overall survivorship rate, and force of mortality of larval groups fed on three different diets. Conclusions: Chicken liver is an advisable diet for nurturing larvae and plotting standard curves in forensic entomology. For rearing the first and the second larval instars in sterile conditions, blood agar and fish food can serve as suitable diets.
The effect of traditional music on mental status of chronic schizophrenic patients: a clinical trial study
Authors: Hakimi Fatemeh , Zarean Elham , Nikfarjam Masoud , Yarmohammadi Parastoo
Published: April 2021

Background and aims: Music therapy is a simple and inexpensive method for the treatment of some psychiatric disorders. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of traditional music on the mental state of hospitalized chronic schizophrenia patients. Methods: In this clinical trial, 30 schizophrenia patients in the intervention group received routine treatment and attended music therapy sessions and 30 patients in the control group received routine treatment alone. Group music therapy sessions with traditional music were conducted 5 times a week for 2 months. Demographic questionnaire and Andreasen’s positive and negative symptoms questionnaires were completed at baseline and after the completion of music therapy sessions. Data analysis was conducted in SPSS version 16.0 using independent and paired t tests. Results: The mean scores of delusion (P=0.001) and bizarre behavior (P=0.036) and the total score of the SAPS (P=0.001) significantly decreased after intervention in the music therapy group. However, in the control group, the differences in the total and individual domain scores of the SAPS were not significant (P>0.05). There was no significant difference between the control and music therapy groups in the total and individual domain scores of the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS) before and after the intervention (P>0.05). Additionally, before and after the study, the mean score of avolition in the music therapy group was significantly lower compared to the control group (P=0.03). The mean score of alogia in the music therapy group was significantly lower compared to the control group (P=0.01). Conclusion: Music therapy is effective in improving most of the positive symptoms of schizophrenia and some of its negative aspects, and therefore can be used as a complementary therapy along with drug therapy.
Description and management of non-metastatic thoracic myxofibrosarcoma: a case report
Authors: Aalami Amir Hossein , Amirabadi Amir , Hosseini Mojahed Fatemeh , Ayatllahi Ali
Published: April 2021

Myxofibrosarcoma is a soft tissue sarcoma (STS) prevailing in the elderly and is associated with metastasis and mortality. In this case, an 88-year-old male is presented with a progressively enlarging mass in the posterior thorax. The physical examination revealed a solid, irregular, painful mass on palpation. Doppler ultrasonography and high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a 60 × 38 mm hypoechoic tumor in the left paraspinal thoracic area with a little vascularity with no adherence and invasion. Radical excisional surgery was performed. The histopathology findings were in line with myxofibrosarcoma except for CD34. He underwent high dose radiotherapy due to the reported not assessable margins at one side. The patient was asymptomatic and recurrent free in the 12 months follow up assessment. It was the first known case of the non-metastatic intermediate grade of myxofibrosarcoma in the thorax. Due to its deceptive findings, myxofibrosarcoma should always be considered in the assessment of chest wall tumors.
Neurofilament heavy chain gene polymorphism and risk of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ghorbani Jazar Elham , Chavoshi Tarzjani Seyedeh Parisa , Sadeghi Zahra , Alaie Shekoofe , Shahzadeh Fazeli Seyed Abolhassan
Published: April 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease characterized by degeneration of the central nervous system (CNS). High levels of Neurofilament heavy chain (NEFH) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is associated with MS. 40 MS patients and 40 controls genotyped by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Sanger sequencing. Genotypic and allelic distributions were compared between cases and controls. Fisher test was used to estimate the risk of MS associated with genotypes. We showed that NEFH, 1084-244G>A gene polymorphism, has no significant association with the susceptibility or severity of MS in Iranian patients (P = 0.737). Further prospective studies are required for confirmation.
Antidepressant-like effect of Cuminum cyminum essential oil on the forced swim and tail suspension tests in male mice
Authors: Asadi Kosar , Abbasi-Maleki Saeid , Sadeghi Hashjin Goudarz
Published: April 2021

Background and aims: Several pharmacological and biological activities have been attributed to Cuminum cyminum L. (CC), including analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-epileptic effects. In this regard, the present study evaluated the antidepressant-like effects of the CC essential oil (EO) on the forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) in male mice. Materials and Methods: The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) apparatus was used for detecting the chemical compounds of CC EO. In the present study, 72 male NMRI mice were randomly allocated to 12 groups (each containing 6 animals) including control or vehicle (10 mL/kg, i.p.), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg, i.p.), imipramine (30 mg/kg, i.p), and the CC EO (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg, i.p.). Then, several parameters were measured and recorded, including immobility time, swimming time, and climbing time in FST, along with immobility time in TST, respectively. Results: Cuminaldehyde followed by cymene, γ-terpinene, phenylglycol, 2-caren-10-al, 2-β-pinene, acoradiene, and cuminic acid were the major components of the CC EO. Based on the results, all doses of the CC, fluoxetine, and imipramine reduced immobility time in both FST (P<0.001) and TST (P<0.001). On the other hand, all doses of the CC and fluoxetine increased swimming time (P<0.001) although climbing time was only increased by 200 and 300 mg/kg of the EO (P<0.01 and P<0.001, respectively) and imipramine (P<0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study, the components of the CC induced antidepressant-like activity similar to that of fluoxetine and imipramine in both tests. However, further studies are required to confirm the role of different active components and the exact mechanism of action.
The effect of elastic resistance band training with green coffee supplementation on novel hepatic steatosis biomarkers in obese women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Banitalebi Ebrahim , Tavasoli Zahra , Jafari Tina , Mardaniyan Ghahfarrokhi Majid
Published: April 2021

Background and aims: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of eight weeks of resistance training (RT) using elastic bands together with green coffee supplement on novel hepatic steatosis biomarkers (hepatic steatosis index [HSI] and Framingham steatosis index [FSI]) in middle-aged obese women. Materials and Methods: This study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial performed on the basis of the CONSORT Statement at Shahrekord University in Iran (summer 2018). For this purpose, 60 obese women aged 30-60 years with a body mass index (BMI) of >30 kg/ m2 were selected to participate in this study and then they were randomly assigned to one of the following four groups: green coffee (GC, n=15), resistance training and placebo (RT+P, n=15), green coffee and resistance training (GC+RT, n=15), and placebo groups (P, n=15). Results: The results showed no significant differences in FSI (P=0.822) and HSI (P=0.752) between four groups. However, there were significant increases in high density lipoprotein (HDL) in the RT+P (P=0.050) and GC+RT groups (P=0.032) and significant decreases in total cholesterol (TC) in the RT+P (P=0.023), GC+RT (P=0.006), and GC groups (P=0.041). Conclusion: The reduction of hepatic steatosis biomarkers in these individuals may require a longer period of resistance workouts or other exercises.
Effect of exercise training on lipid profiles in the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ghafari Mahdi , Faramarzi Mohammad , Baghurst Timoty
Published: April 2021

Background and aims: There are many articles about the effects of different training methods on lipid profiles in the elderly. The objective of the present study was to investigate the influence of training on the lipid profile in the elderly. Methods: In this study, databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, SID, Magiran, and Google Scholar were searched. Intervention effects were presented as mean difference (MD) with a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed to study heterogeneity, following the primary screening of the full text of the articles. Results: A total of 23 trials with 1654 individuals were included in the meta-analysis. Levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (MD = 0.47 mg/dL; P<0.001, SE = 0.08, V = 0.01, 95% CI = 0.31 0.63, Z = 5.73, 19 trials), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (MD = -0.46; P<0.001, SE = 0.11, V = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.68 -0.25, Z = -4.24), triglyceride (MD = -0.62; P=0.001, SE = 0.12, V = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.86 -0.38, Z = -5.03, 20 trials), and total cholesterol (TC) (MD = -0.33; P<0.001, SE = 0.09, V = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.52 -0.15, Z = -3.57, 16 trials) were investigated. Following sensitivity analysis and heterogeneity testing, the results were still strong and impressive. Conclusion: Lipid profiles improved in training groups, indicating higher levels of HDL-C and lower levels of LDL-C, TC, and triglyceride. Overall, training leads to a better lipid profile. However, closer scrutiny seems necessary.
Knee alignment with and without implements in leg press and squat exercises: a systematic review
Authors: Baptista da Silva Jurandir , Pinto de Castro Juliana Brandão , Borba-Pinheiro Claudio Joaquim , Moraes Ribeiro Giovanne , Braga de Mello Danielli , Gomes de Souza Vale Rodrigo
Published: April 2021

Resistance training has been commonly used as a method of intervention in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries affecting the knee. Thus, the objective of this systematic review was to identify the methods employed with and without implements in leg press and squat exercises for the maintenance of knee alignment. The literature search was performed in the databases: PubMed, SciELO, and Lilacs. We used the descriptors "muscle strength" and "exercise" and their synonyms, available in the Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS) and the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), with the terms "valgus knee" and "varus knee". From the 1,117 articles found, eight studies were considered for the review. The included studies had samples composed of young men and women with advanced levels of training. Despite verifying conditions of valgus or varus knee, the studies presented different protocols and assessment methods. The implements comprised physioball, elastic resistance, and wedge. Electromyography and kinematics were used to assess muscle activity and movement patterns. These results reinforced the possibility of using implements to induce muscle and joint actions to reduce varus and valgus conditions. We suggest more studies to define the best strategies to reduce the excessive deviation of the patella in people who have valgus or varus knee.
Laser power density effect on the properties of Sb2S3 thin films prepared by pulsed laser assisted chemical bath deposition
Authors: Rodríguez-García Nabile Edith , Vázquez-Gálvez Felipe Adrián , Estrada-Saldaña Fernando , Hernández-Hernández Israel
Published: April 2021

Antimony Sulfide (Sb2S3) thin films were prepared using the laser assisted chemical bath deposition technique. The precursors used in the chemical bath were antimony chloride and sodium thiosulfate, the deposit was made at room temperature on glass substrate, while it was irradiated with a wavelength of 532 nm of the pulsed Nd:YAG laser. In this work, we studied the effects of energy density (1.97 x 107 and 7.07 x 106 W/cm2) and the irradiation time (30, 45 and 60 min) during the deposition process on the structure and the optical and electrical properties of the antimony sulfide films. The structure, composition, and optical and electrical properties were analyzed by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Raman Spectroscopy and X-Ray Emitted Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), UV-Vis spectroscopy and photoconductivity. The results showed that the laser assisted chemical deposition technique is an effective synthesis technique for obtaining thin films of antimony sulfide for optoelectronic applications or in solar cells.
Solar pumps: a sustainable alternative for agricultural systems in areas of high marginalization
Authors: Montemayor-Trejo José Alfredo , Woo-Reza José Luis , Yescas-Coronado Pablo , Frias-Ramirez Ernesto
Published: April 2021

Access to water in areas of high marginalization is undoubtedly one of the main problems to be solved. The objective of this study was to design two photovoltaic systems with solar pumps, the first to establish a planting area for vegetables, and the second with the purpose of bringing water for livestock consumption. The work was developed during the years 2015 and 2017 in the towns of Vicente Guerrero and Lázaro Cárdenas, municipalities of San Juan de Guadalupe Victoria, Durango, Mexico. In the first municipality there is a pond with a capacity of 50,000 cubic meters and in the second, there is a well. According to the maximum demands of crops 6.6 mm d-1, a pump was designed with a capacity of 221.6 m3 d-1 and a total dynamic load of 25 m with 20 solar panels. In the second case, it consists of moving the water at a distance of 4.5 km and 62 m against the slope, for which a pump with a capacity of 30 m3 d-1 and a total dynamic load of 93.3 m was designed with eight solar panels.
Síntesis y caracterización del aceite de las semillas de Chayotillo (Sicyos Deppei) para la producción de biodiesel así como para investigar la toxina que esta semilla contiene que produce un efecto paralizante en los animales que la consumen
Authors: Vázquez-Monroy Fortino , Islas-Cerón Alejandro , Hidalgo-Martinez Erick , Bernal-Martinez Junior Adán
Published: April 2021

The present research project aims to synthesize the oil from the seeds of the Chayotillo plant (Sicyos Deppei) by a chemical method through the soxhlet equipment, which consists of hexane reflux for the extraction of the seed oil from the plant. Chayotillo plant for its possible application in the production of biodiesel, the characterization of the oil of the seed will be done by infrared spectroscopy, the calculation of the percentage of oil contained in the seed, the color of the oil and investigate if the oil is found the toxin that produces a crippling effect in the animals that consume it when this corn comes when it is harvested with a harvester machine and it could be that if this seed were stirred in the corn that is used to make tortillas it could cause this same effect on the human being, once obtained the results will be spread among the people of the rural areas of the region of Tula-Tepeji.
Aprovechamiento de residuos orgánicos para la generación de biogás
Authors: Garcia Magallanes Gabriel , Osorio Canul Marvin , Herrera Lugo Angélica , Novelo-Moo Thelma
Published: April 2021

In our country, information on renewable energy is widely dispersed and the level of contamination of stray animals; like dogs and cats, they pollute the air and cause diseases in the increase. This accumulation is generated by the disposition of the non-ideal places and the absence of handling of these residues. The problem grows in places where the number of canes increases such as streets, shelters and places of adoption, the rate of generation of canine hinas is much higher. A biodigester was built which produces biogas through anaerobic digestion from canine excrement with the aim of promoting alternative energies and thus reducing the high level of contamination and unhealthiness that crop feces by being exposed to outdoor. This biodigester allows small-scale tests with canine feces, since its operating conditions are contemplated in the geographical area.
Sistema de extraccion y tratamiento de metano
Authors: Cantú-Munguía Irma Adriana , Garay-De La O Albino , Garciabada-Silva Gabriel , Hernández-Cervantes Aldo Aarón
Published: April 2021

Currently sanitary landfills are considered sources of atmospheric pollutants. Biogas, a product of the biological decomposition of organic waste, incorporates mostly methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2), which are greenhouse gases. A large number of municipal sanitary landfills do not have control over methane gas emissions to the surface. This project is based on the construction of a portable prototype system for the extraction and treatment of methane gas from landfills. The objective was to manufacture and build a portable prototype system for the extraction and treatment of methane gas from municipal sanitary landfills. That it implements the necessary sections and devices to treat the gas and in this way facilitate its later use as fuel in heating systems, domestic use and / or internal and external combustion thermal machines. Using for this purpose a system of gas extraction, separation of solids, de-humidification and desulphurisation process. In the system variables such as the percentage of methane, temperature and humidity are monitored, in order to give a stability to the gas treatment process.
La tecnología en la aeronáutica en pro de las energias renovables y de la Bio-Sustentabilidad
Authors: Santana-Vázquez Olivia , López-Melendrez Jesús , Rosales-Olivares Jorge Enrique , Reynoso-Villanueva Miriam
Published: April 2021

Basic sciences, technology and human sciences in aeronautics are integrated in favor of renewable energies for sustainable development.Thus, the objective of this project is to create a rainwater and condensed water storage system with automated irrigation, powered by solar energy that provides crop moisture and contributes to the reduction of CO2 in the semi-desert region of Querétaro. The methodology used is action research, which consists of observing and detecting a real problem to immediately analyze and assess the possibilities of intervention. In this case it was the waste of natural resources in the university (water and solar energy). An action strategy was designed afterwards which consisted in: 1. Integration of a team of specialist teachers and students. 2. General planning of the project. 3. Theoretical and field research. 4. Systems design: hydraulic, structures, automated irrigation with solar energy. 5.Application of device tests and the study of the process of crop growing and composting. Our contribution in this project is above all social and ecological and not to science; university social responsibility is encouraged emphasizing the importance that the application of technology offer alternatives for the care and use of natural resources and greater use of renewable energy. As an added value, the project contributes to applied research with an interdisciplinary approach of professors and students of different aeronautical careers in favor of sustainable development. It is clarified that during this initial stage there is still no scientific contribution made as we plan ,in a subsequent stage, to test and show levels of radiation and humidity in the region.
Estudio del comportamiento de sensores de gas basados en resonadores de cristal de cuarzo para altas frecuencias
Authors: Jiménez-Arellano Juan Jesús , Muñoz-Mata José Lorenzo , Muñoz-Aguirre Severino , Orres-Méndez Sergio
Published: April 2021

Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors have been frequently used as micro-weighing devices, since they have demonstrated to be highly sensitive due to the frequency shifts ought to mass- increments stuck on the sensing film surface of the sensor. This kind of devices are normally used as arrays of sensors in systems known as Electronic Noses, for the detection and analysis of gases, fluids, and biological compounds among others. The sensitivity of the QCM sensors is directly proportional to the resonance frequency of the crystal. Therefore, increasing sensitivity implies using high frequency crystals above 20 MHz. Quartz crystals have been manufactured in two modalities: fundamental and overtone, the latter being used for frequencies between 30 MHz and 200 MHz. In this work, we present theoretical arguments as well as experimental results that describe the characteristics and differences in the performance of 30 MHz sensors in both modalities, in addition to other considerations in the behavior of these devices that cannot be observed from the analytical point of view, but from the point of experimental view.
Una comparación entre el método MOORA y CODAS bajo ambiente de Conjunto Pitagoreano Difuso
Authors: Flores-Ruvalcaba Abbi Azalia , Pérez-Domínguez Luis , García-Villalba Luz Angélica , Almeraz-Durán Sara
Published: April 2021

Multi-criteria decision-making methods (MCDM) have accelerated in recent years. Many authors have made remarkable manipulation of the uncertainty involved in MCDM problems as a constant to make the most appropriate decision among the alternatives proposed. For this reason, fuzzy logic has been integrated into the MCDM, achieving new hybrid methodologies. These have managed to increase decision-making capacity, allowing us to manipulate nonfuzzy (quantitative) and fuzzy (qualitative) information. The main of this paper presents the comparative analysis of the Pythagorean Fuzzy CODAS method in order to examine the advantages and differences in comparison to MOORA Pythagorean Fuzzy Set method. The analysis, in this sense, aims to present a new scenario for the selection of the best decision-making problem, taking its advantages and thus achieve a greater benefit in real problems applications. An illustrative case will be presented with the MOORA-PFS methodology, to see the results obtained with Pythagorean Fuzzy CODAS. Besides, this comparative study to academics to choose more operative methods for solve MCDM problems.
Diseño de un sistema fotovoltaico para la reducción de usuarios de tarifa DAC
Authors: Sánchez-Cortez José Alfonso , Castillo-Ramírez Carlos Eduardo , González-Morales Amparo , Vázquez-Baldazo Luis Guillermo
Published: April 2021

The increase in costs for electricity consumption has gone up, significantly affecting the economy of users, within the tariffs of residential users is the “DAC” rate (that means high consumption domestic rate). An economic analysis of electricity consumption rates indicates that, as of January 1st, 2019, the cost per kWh used in the “DAC” tariff corresponds to $ 5.121 MXN, which means that a “DAC” user pays more than 200% than a user 1C rate for each kWh consumed. For this purpose, a photovoltaic system has been designed for interconnection to the network, this system allows users to change from “DAC” rate to tariff 1C, and consequently will allow the reduction of these costs about the electric power service, this system can be installed in any yard, besides generating electricity, the photovoltaic products will be 2: a swing and a gazebo, with an installed capacity of 1.1 kWh, which will provide a rest and relaxation service.
Efecto del proceso de combustión sobre la eficiencia total de una central térmica de vapor
Authors: Jimenez-Garcia Juan , Duran-Garcia Maria , Torres-Tovar Rigoberto , Gaspar-Sanchez Noé
Published: April 2021

In the present investigation, a simulation model of the thermal calculation of the steam generator's steam generator 350 MW, operating under a Rankine cycle with superheat and regeneration, was developed. An analysis was carried out, modifying some parameters of the combustion (air and fuel flow) and the temperatures reached by the products of the combustion at the exit of the steam generator's home were determined, using the method of successive substitutions, applied to the thermal calculation methodology, with a stopping criterion of the approximate relative error of ε_ra <1 x10-8. It was found that the temperatures reached by the combustion gases at the steam generator's outlet for the 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% regimes are: 1492.4 ° C, 1379.3 ° C, 1238.0 ° C and 980.0 ° C, respectively. Regarding the effect of air dosing on the thermal efficiency of the cycle, it is observed that it increases slightly with the increase of the dosage. Being the maximum thermal efficiency of the cycle of 35.8%
Sistema Aerodinámico para un Sistema Eólico de Baja Potencia
Authors: Linares-Enríquez Alejandro , Martinez-Zepeda Ivan
Published: April 2021

One of the main needs of the society is to have electric power in their homes, which is why an orientation mechanism of the aerodynamic system for a Low Power Wind System is developed, developing the mechanical and electronic elements for orientation according to the gusts of wind, but its development is directed to moderate winds, up to 12 km / s, considering its application for supply or if they already have electricity for self-supply, considering the simulation, control, design and implementation of the aerodynamic system , its form of mechanical and electronic orientation, as well as determining how the incidence of wind affects each of the aerodynamic components of the wind turbine and how each of the climatic changes to which it is subjected affects them, such as humidity and wind speed, how the system behaves within certain wind intervals in areas in which can be implemented, so that tests in a wind tunnel of aerodynamic behavior will be developed and the elements of the guidance system of the blades and dynamic behavior tests that designate the material for the manufacture of the system will be established.
Medición del potencial de explotación de energía fotovoltaica y eólica en Tamaulipas, región Altamira
Authors: Castillo-Martinez Oscar , Bortoni-Anzures Liborio Jesus , Rodriguez-Chavez Ulises
Published: April 2021

Now a day, Mexico is looking the way to generate electricity by using renewable, clean and ecofriendly sources according the actual legal framework. This project is a meteorological portable station which will record either direction and speed of wind, light irradiation and environment air temperature in a data logger unit conformed by a microprocessor and a memory. The data recorded in the device will be mathematically analyzed and processed in a delimited period of time and plotted on different type of graphs or documents for to support feasibilities studies which could identify the power potential of photovoltaic energy and wind energy in the city of Altamira Tamaulipas. The main goal of this project is contribute with actual studies which will determine the feasibility of energy generation by using clean energy sources in the south part of our state promoting the development of energy power industry, mainly in the city of Altamira. Objectives: To build a portable meteorological station and to carry out a study of the measurement of the photovoltaic and wind energy exploitation potential in Tamaulipas, Altamira region, based on the data of the environmental variables measured and collected during a certain time, to determine the viability of generation electricity through wind and solar resource in this region. Methodology: In order to carry out the evaluation of the photovoltaic and wind energy potential measurement in Tamaulipas, Altamira region, a customized portable weather station module will be manufactured, to perform measurements of wind speed, wind direction measurements, temperature measurements, and irradiation measurements, at the site of interest. In addition, a system will be installed to register all the variables described in a micro SD memory and a communication system through a bluetooth module. This portable weather station will be installed, at the top of the library building of the Polytechnic University of Altamira. The exact geographical location is shown by means of Google Maps with a Latitude 22.462239 and longitude: -97.970186 (Google, 2018). Contribution: Provide information on the meteorological variables of our environment, adding a solar panel that demonstrates its viability. Implement an interface that allows constant monitoring and the different measurements made at the meteorological station, using sensors and microntrollers.
Sistemas de bombeo solar en Pachuca Hidalgo
Authors: Flores-Ramírez Oscar , Huesca-Lazcano Erick Eduardo , Romero-Rodríguez Gabriel , Jiménez-Soto Ezequiel
Published: April 2021

The extraction of water from wells for supply in rural populations is one of the most profitable and novel applications of photovoltaic solar energy. The use of a specific type of submersible pumps for applications with photovoltaic energy, that work with direct / direct current (DC / DC) generated directly from the photovoltaic modules, allows an independent installation of the electrical network with very scarce maintenance needs, in This project was carried out the sizing, installation and commissioning of an autonomous pumping system with a submersible pump powered by a photovoltaic solar installation in the municipality of Actopan Hidalgo in the state of Pachuca. To implement the project, a climate study was first carried out. the area to support the efficiency of the solar pumping system, in this project we used 18 panels of 150 W, a SubDrive Solar controller, a Franklin Electric pump of 3 HP and a frequency inverter for the optimization of said pump.
Implementación de Motor Stirling para generación de energía eléctrica limpia empleando una lente de Fresnel
Authors: López-Xelo Hilario , Hernández-Medina José Juan , Pérez-Martínez Rene , Cabrera-Pérez José Luis
Published: April 2021

In search of expanding the generation of electric power and reduce the burning of fossil fuels. It is proposed to use the tools that already have and the necessary information to make a prototype of Alfa type Stirling engine, which is a thermal machine with low levels of noise and toxic emissions, that its relative design is of low manufacturing cost for the generation of clean electrical energy, for the heating we will use a Fresnel lens with the purpose of satisfying the thermal energy demand of the same, in the sense of achieving the best angle of capture of solar rays, at the same time achieving the highest concentration of heat possible for the heating angle of the motor. The validation of the proposed model is based on experimental results, using the information obtained from the production of electrical energy, with this the validation of the prototype will be performed, similar to the solar parabolic dish concentrator.
Optimización del tiempo de barrenado en perfiles de aluminio
Authors: Santillan-Valdelamar Maria Guadalupe , Dimas-Díaz Francelin , Serrano-González Sergio , Ramos Hernández Cristopher Antonio
Published: April 2021

The manufacturing branch of aluminum windows national line is an area that nowadays the conventional processes are deficient and with errors at the time of execution causing the manufacturer to lose time, so the need arises to improve the process of drilling in the profiles of aluminum national line for the assembly of windows. The objective of this work is to build a die to optimize times and maximize productivity in the drilling of aluminum profiles national line by means of a study of times, the design was made using the methodology of Bruno Munari. With the construction of the die for aluminum profiles national line was achieved the reduction of the time of drilling on average from 1.7 minutes to 0.07 minutes that represents the optimization of time in 95.88% while to assemble a window the time of 3.5 minutes was reduced to 0.14 minutes what represents the maximization of the production in 96%.
Aplicación de sistemas de refrigeración solar en zonas marginadas, organizaciones de bajos recursos y poblaciones desprotegidas
Authors: AMADOR-GARCÍA José Enrique , CRUZ-GÓMEZ Marco Antonio , JUÁREZ-ZERÓN Tomás Aáron , MEJÍA-PEREZ José Alfredo
Published: April 2021

The refrigeration systems are of great importance in the daily life of the human being, due to the fact that it is necessary to have cold storage systems for different processes and perishable products preservation. The generated electric power as an alternative source has been used for refrigeration systems involved in sustainable development programs. The aims of this research were to characterize a cooling system powered by solar panels and that pretend to improve the quality of life. Refrigerating machines that use alternative sources of energy contribute to sustainable development, however, those that do not use it have a greater environmental impact. The solar refrigerator prototype has a quantitative-qualitative approach in deductive processes based on interpretation and data collection. This was carried out using own materials for the refrigerators construction that allow obtaining a compact configuration, presenting, pressure-volume operation curves and autonomy of the system with maintenance similar to conventional refrigeration systems. The refrigeration system is intended to be used in marginalized areas, low-income organizations and in support unprotected populations.
Evaluación técnica para un sistema de calentamiento de agua a través de tubos evacuados en la producción de sal de grano en el Municipio de Petatlán, Gro
Authors: Solorio-Quintana Carlos , Aparicio-Jaimes Gabriel
Published: April 2021

The present work focuses on the technical evaluation of a water heating system for the production of salt grain in the coastal region of the municipality of Petatlán, Guerrero, with the purpose of increasing efficiency in the production process of said same product that is obtained by evaporating the water, taking advantage of the abundant available solar resource. For which a solar collector system is designed that through vacuum glass tubes the fluid is circulated at a low speed, increasing its temperature and accelerating the production process. The system is built using low cost materials and with sustainable criteria which is used in exploratory and field research where statistical data on solar radiation, volumetric flow of available salt water, temperature of the environment, among others have been compiled for later be analyzed and together determine the efficiency of the grain salt production process that will benefit the productive sector of the Costa Grande de Guerrero.
THE TEACHERS’ KNOWLEDGE ABOUT NEW PRESCHOOL CURRICULUM
Authors: Masnan Abdul Halim , Mohd Sharif Muhammad Haziq , Dzainuddin Masayu , Taha Hafsah , Ibrahim Mohd Mokhzani , Yahaya Asmayati , Che Ahmad Che Nidzam , Ramli Saipolbarin , Md Taib Rosfizah , Che Mustafa Mazlina , Ahmad Abdul Wahab Nurul Shakila
Published: April 2021

The new preschool curriculum in Malaysia is known as the National Preschool Standard-Based Curriculum (NPSC) (Revised 2017) requires knowledgeable, well-skilled and more experienced teachers in its implementation. This study aimed to identify the teachers’ level of knowledge about the new preschool curriculum from the private sector. A total of 269 private kindergarten teachers in a Selangor district were randomly selected as respondents. They were asked to respond to the questionnaire and the data collected were then analysed descriptively. Overall findings showed that the majority of those private kindergarten teachers had a High Level of knowledge about the new preschool curriculum. The demographic details also revealed that the majority of private kindergarten teachers had more years of experience, but half of them did not have any professional qualifications and not involved in professional development. In conclusion, these findings explained that though half of the private kindergarten teachers do not meet the professional criteria, they have good knowledge of NPSC (Revised 2017). This study has suggested that further research relating to the preschool curriculum is needed and provides supportive information to the Ministry of Education (MOE) and local private kindergartens.
EXPLORATORY FACTOR ANALYSIS OF TPACK IN THE CONTEXT OF ESL SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN SABAH
Authors: Abdul Rauf Ahmad , Swanto Suyansah , Salam Syahrul Nizam
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to adapt the Survey of EFL-Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (EFL-TPACK) by Bostancıoğlu & Handley (2018) and to investigate its factor structure through exploratory factor analysis. 100 ESL teachers of secondary schools in Sabah participated in this study. SPSS application has been used for statistical analyses. The reliability of the subscales from Cronbach Alpha is ranging from 0.898 to 0.902. The final TPACK survey included a total of 33 items: 6 TK, 3 CK, 6 PK/PCK, 6 TCK, 6 TPK, and 6 TPACK. Based on the findings also, the TPACK Survey has been found to be ideal to study on TPACK level of English language teachers in Malaysia.
MOBILE LEARNING AMONG FORM SIX STUDENTS: ARE THEY READY?
Authors: Kankok Jol , Ambotang Abdul Said , Salam Syahrul Nizam
Published: April 2021

Prior to embarking on mobile technologies, mobile learning has become an integral part of learning strategies. It is viewed as a potentially significant learning tool as it has made learning ubiquitous with the use of wireless mobile devices. However, before designing and implementing a new learning system, learner’s readiness should be taken into consideration. Despite its notable advantages, mobile learning is largely unresearched at Malaysian Form Six Students. Therefore, this quantitative study aims to investigate the extent of readiness of Malaysian Form Six students., A set of questionnaires was administered to 106 randomly selected form six students to serve this purpose. The questionnaire was designed to explore three main readiness, namely Self-Directed Learning (SDL), technological readiness, and psychological readiness. The overall findings revealed that a great majority of the students show a high level off readiness for the implementation of mobile learning. The evidence from this preliminary finding has provided valuable information for educators and curriculum designers to discover ways to exploit mobile learning in the teaching and learning process.
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING IN AN EFL SETTING – A CASE STUDY AT A UNIVERSITY IN VIETNAM
Authors: Giao Le Thi Chi , Nguyen Bich Dieu
Published: April 2021

Teaching for enhanced learning experience has well-received great interest from many teachers and educators around the world. In the EFL setting, tremendous efforts have been recognized in taking students out of a conventional classroom to experience a new way of learning which stimulates interest and creative thinking, which improves communication and collaborative skills, and which exposes students to more meaningful real-life situations. Project-based learning (PBL) is an answer to this, and it has developed as an alternative to teaching a foreign language with a focus on enhanced learning experience and increased creative teambuilding and group skills through meaningful projects. This paper presents how PBL has been adopted at the University of Foreign Language Studies – the University of Danang (UFLS-UD). It revisits the significance of PBL, the structure of a PBL activity, and reports how PBL has been situated in the local context of teaching English to students majoring in English in Vietnam. The reflections reported here showcase the gains through the path of action research enacted by individual teachers who act as change agents or enablers of this innovative teaching and learning approach and whose efforts have been recognized by means of several adaptations made to bring real life and a sense of community into language instruction.