bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between digital ultrasonographic image echotexture parameters of the uterus and preovulatory follicle development and ovulation in purebred Arabian mares
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Harran University, Sanliurfa, Turkey, Korkmaz Ömer , Akkuş Tuğra , Emre Birten , Zonturlu Abuzer K.
Published: June 2021

Objective assessment of ultrasonographic images is only possible using computer-assisted echotexture analysis. This study investigated the relationship between cyclic digital echotexture analysis of ultrasonographic uterine images, and preovulatory follicle development and ovulation in 48 cyclic purebred Arabian mares during the breeding season. When the mares’ ovarian follicle diameters exceeded 30 mm, ultrasonographic examinations were performed and ultrasonographic images recorded with uterine endometrial edema degrees following follicle development until ovulation day. Echotexture measurements, including mean grayness value (MGV), heterogeneity (HET) and contrast (CON) parameters, were performed on the days when ovarian follicle diameters reached 30 mm (Group 1, n = 12), 35 mm (Group 2, n = 12), 40 mm (Group 3, n = 12) and 45 mm (Group 4, n = 12) in images recorded the day before ovulation and on the day of ovulation. MGV was the lowest in Group 2 and the difference from the other groups was statistically significant (P<0.001). CON was significantly higher in Group 2 than Groups 3 and 4 (P<0.01). However, there was no significant difference compared to Group 1 (P>0.05). Variations in HOM (P<0.05), contrast (P<0.05) and MGV (P<0.01) were statistically significant on the day before ovulation and ovulation day. Thus, uterine ultrasonographic echotexture parameters are associated with preovulatory follicle development in mares, which suggests that these parameters can indicate the day of ovulation in purebred Arabian mares.
The haemato-metabolic profile of high producing dairy cows during the transition period
Authors:   Livestock Production Management Section, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana India, Aswal Manju , Prasad Shiv , Kumar Nishant , Rajpoot Veenesh , Mondal Mohan
Published: June 2021

The objective of the present study was to assess the haematological [haemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC), erythrocytic indices, total leucocyte count (TLC) and differential leucocyte count (DLC)] changes and metabolic adjustment, viz. blood glucose, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and cholesterol, in high-yielding Sahiwal and Karan Fries cows during the transition period. For this purpose, blood samples were collected from 8 pregnant Karan Fries crossbred cows and 8 pregnant Sahiwal cows on days -15, -7, 0 (the day of calving), +7 and +15 from calving, and used for estimation of haemoglobin, PCV, TLC, TEC, erythrocytic indices and DLC, and metabolic parameters, such as blood glucose, BUN, NEFA and cholesterol. It was found that haemoglobin concentrations, PCV and TEC increased significantly (P<0.01) up to the day of calving, and gradually decreased thereafter to reach pre-partum levels in the subsequent weeks post-calving. While the TLC, number of neutrophils and monocytes were found to increase (P<0.01), the number of lymphocytes decreased significantly (P<0.01) on the day of calving and then reached pre-partum levels after calving. No significant effect was observed on erythrocytic indices parameters. Blood glucose, BUN and NEFA levels showed an increasing trend (P<0.01) from 2 weeks pre-partum until the day of calving, and then decreased to the pre-partum level after calving. Unlike the other parameters, the plasma cholesterol level increased consistently from 2 weeks pre-partum to 2 weeks post-partum. In conclusion, the results of our study clearly show a definite pattern of the haematological and metabolic adjustment of high-producing dairy cows during the pre-partum to postpartum transition.
Využívání nástrojů mobilního marketingu u cestovních kanceláří v ČR
Authors: Hommerová Dita , Fiala Michal
Published: June 2021

This paper deals with the potential for use of mobile marketing and its instruments at tour operators in the Czech Republic. The aim of this work was to become familiar with the modern instruments of mobile marketing and analyze the current state of usage of this type of marketing on the level of tour operators in the Czech Republic. The main tool for finding out this state was a survey shared with selected tour operators. This survey was aimed at identifying the tools used by tour operators, for which objectives were these tools used and with which resultes. The second step of the survey consisted of analyzing the current state of website optimization of individual travel agencies with the online tool from Google. The goal of this step was to find out which tour operators have a mobile-friendly website and what type of optimization are they using.
„Mér finnst námskeiðið klárlega hafa stutt mig [í kennslunni]“ Tengsl fræða og starfs á vettvangi
Authors: Jónsdóttir Lilja M. , Pálsdóttir Guðbjörg , Hauksdóttir Edda Kristín
Published: June 2021

Skólaárið 2019-2020 var í fyrsta sinn í boði að taka heilsársvettvangsnám sem launað starfsnám í grunnskólakennaranámi við Menntavísindasvið HÍ. Starf á vettvangi er hluti af heilsársnámskeiði, Nám og kennsla – Fagmennska í starfi I og II. Þetta námskeið er arftaki tveggja námskeiða á meistarastigi; Nám og kennsla – Fagmennska í starfi og Faggreinakennsla. Í greininni er skoðað hvaða breytingar hafa orðið á þessum námskeiðum og hvernig þau hafa stutt kennaranemana í kennslunni, því mikilvægt er fyrir kennaramenntakennara að greina áhrif slíkra breytinga. Megináhersla námskeiðanna er að tengja saman fræði og starf á vettvangi. Þar er fjallað fræðilega um fjölmarga þætti kennarastarfsins og skoða kennaranemar þessa sömu þætti á vettvangi, prófa í kennslu og ræða við æfingakennara sína, ásamt að skrifa um þá í rannsóknardagbók. Sagt er frá aðdraganda, markmiðum, skipulagi og helstu grunnhugmyndum sem byggt var á við þróun námskeiðsins frá 2013 og greint frá niðurstöðum rannsóknar á reynslu kennaranema af heilsársnámskeiðinu. Markmið rannsóknarinnar var að skoða hvernig inntak námskeiðsins og skipulag nýtist og styður nemana í kennarastarfinu og hvort þeir teldu sig almennt vel undirbúna fyrir það. Tekin voru viðtöl við átta kennaranema í janúar og febrúar 2020 og stuðst við ýmis skrifleg gögn kennara námskeiðsins. Niðurstöður viðtalanna benda til almennrar ánægju með námskeiðið. Nemarnir telja að viðfangsefni þess styðji þá í starfi og að umræðutímar í smærri hópum um námsþætti og eigin kennslu séu sérlega gagnlegir. Þá segja þeir að regluleg, markviss ígrundun um kennsluna efli þá í starfsþróun og mótun eigin starfskenningar. Fram kemur að skipulag og námsþættir námskeiðsins styðji við uppbyggingu lærdómssamfélags, bæði í kennaramenntuninni sjálfri og úti á vettvangi. Í ljós hefur komið að skipulag námskeiðsins er flókið ferli sem krefst samhæfingar margra ólíkra aðila og hafa margs konar hindranir orðið þetta fyrsta ár. Mikilvægt er að læra af reynslunni og nýta hana til að þróa kennaramenntunina til gagns fyrir alla sem að henni koma; kennaranema, vettvangsskóla og kennaramenntunarstofnunina.
Dynamic Vibration Extinguished on a Viscously Elastic Base
Authors: Ishmamatov M. , Kulmuratov N. , Khalilov S. , Akhmedov N.
Published: June 2021

The aim of the work is to develop algorithms and a set of programs for studying the dynamic characteristics of viscoelastic thin plates on a deformable base on which it is installed with several dynamic dampers. The theory of thin plates is used to obtain the equation of motion for the plate. The relationship between the efforts and the stirred plate obeys in the hereditary Boltzmann Voltaire integral. With this, a system of integro-differential equations is obtained which is solved by the method of complex amplitudes. As a result, a transcendental algebraic equation was obtained to determine the resonance frequencies, which is solved numerically by the Muller method. To determine the displacement of the point of the plate with periodic oscillations of the base of the plate, a linear inhomogeneous algebraic equation was obtained, which is solved by the Gauss method. The amplitude - frequency response of the midpoint of the plate is constructed with and without regard to the viscosity of the deformed element. The dependence of the stiffness of a deformed element on the frequency of external action is obtained to ensure optimal damping of vibrational vibrations of the plate.
Thermal Performance Enhancement of the Mixed Convection between two Parallel Plates by using Triangular Ribs
Authors: Jehhef K.A. , Badawy F.A. , Hussein A.A.
Published: June 2021

This paper aims to investigate the mixed convection between two parallel plates of a vertical channel, in the presence of a triangular rib. The non-stationary Navier-Stokes equations were solved numerically in a two-dimensional formulation for the low Reynolds number for the laminar air flow regime. Six triangular ribs heat-generating elements were located equidistantly on the heated wall. The ratio of the ribs to the channel width is varied (h / H = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4) to study the effect of ribs height effects, the ratio of the channel width to the ribs height is fixed constant at (H / w = 2) and the ratio of the channel height to the ribs pitch is fixed at (W/p=10). The influence of the Reynolds number that ranged from 68 to 340 and the Grashof number that ranged from 6.6 ×103 to 2.6 ×104 as well as the Richardson number chosen (1.4, 0.7, 0.4 and 0.2) is studied. The numerical results are summarized and presented as the profile of the Nusselt number, the coefficient of friction, and the thermal enhancement factor. The contribution of forced and free convection to the total heat transfer is analyzed. Similar and distinctive features of the behavior of the local and averaged heat transfer with the variation of thermal gas dynamic and geometric parameters are investigated in this paper. The results showed that the Nusselt number and friction factor increased by using the attached triangular ribs, especially when using the downstream ribs. Also, the results revealed that the Nusselt number increased by increasing the ratio of the ribs to the channel width.
Natural Frequencies of FG Plates with Two New Distribution of Porosity
Authors: Merdaci Slimane , Mostefa Adda Hadj , Khayal Osama M.E.S.
Published: June 2021

The functionally graded plates (FGP) with two new porosity distributions are examined in this paper. In this work the plate is modeled using the higher-order shear deformation plate principle. The shear correction variables are neglected. To evaluate the equations of motion, the Hamilton method will be used herein. Therefore, the free vibration analysis of FG plate is developed in this work. For porous smart plates with simply-supported sides, natural frequencies are obtained and verified with the established findings in the literature. The impact of the porosity coefficient on the normal frequencies of the plate for various thickness ratios, geometric ratios, and material properties was investigated in a thorough numerical analysis.
Two-Zone Simulation of an Axial Vane Rotary Engine Cycle
Authors: Mirzaei M. , Hashemi S.M. , Saranjam B. , Binesh A.
Published: June 2021

An axial vane rotary engine (AVRE) is a novel type of rotary engines. The engine is a positive displacement mechanism that permits the four “stroke” action to occur in one revolution of the shaft with a minimum number of moving components in comparison to reciprocating engines. In this paper, a two-zone combustion model is developed for a spark ignition AVRE. The combustion chamber is divided into burned and unburned zones and differential equations are developed for the change in pressure and change in temperature in each zone. The modelling is based on equations for energy and mass conservation, equation of state, and burned mass fraction. The assumption is made that both zones are at the same pressure P, and the ignition temperature is the adiabatic flame temperature based on the mixture enthalpy at the onset of combustion. The developed code for engine simulation in MATLAB is applied to another engine and there is a good agreement between results of this code and results related to the engine chosen for validation, so the modelling is independent of configuration.
A Numerical Approach to Slip Flow of a Micropolar Fluid above A Flat Permeable Contracting Surface
Authors: Parthiban R. , Palani G. , Tinker Seema , Sharma R. P.
Published: June 2021

A plain linear penetrable contracting sheet with slip over a micro-polar liquid with a stagnation-point flow is analyzed. Through similarity mapping, the mathematical modeling statements are transformed as ODE’s and numerical results are found by shooting techniques. The varying impacts of physical quantities on the momentum, micro-rotation, and temperature were demonstrated through graphs. The computed measures including shear and couple stress with distinct measures of factors involved in this proposed problem are presented through a table.
Thermal Stresses Due to Non-Uniform Internal Heat Generation in Functionally Graded Hollow Cylinder
Authors: Rani P. , Singh K. , Muwal R.
Published: June 2021

Thermal stresses of a functionally graded hollow thick cylinder due to non-uniform internal heat generation are studied in this paper. Analytical solutions are obtained with radially varying properties by using the theory of elasticity. Thermal stresses distribution for different values of the powers of the module of elasticity and varying power law index of heat generation are studied. The results have been computed numerically and illustrated graphically.
FEM Study of a Steel Corrugated Web Plate Girder Subjected to Fire
Authors: Sokołowski D. , Kamiński M.
Published: June 2021

The main aim of this work is a computational nonlinear analysis of a high strength steel corrugated-web plate girder with a very detailed and realistic mesh including vertical ribs, all the fillet welds and supporting areas. The analysis is carried out to verify mechanical structural response under transient fire temperature conditions accounting for an efficiency and accuracy of three various transient coupled thermo-elastic models. All the resulting stress distributions, deformation modes and their time variations, critical loads and eigenfrequencies as well as failure times are compared in all these models. Nonlinearities include material, geometrical and contact phenomena up to the temperature fluctuations together with temperature-dependent constitutive relations for high strength steel. They result partially from steady state and transient experimental tests or from the additional designing rules included in Eurocodes. A fire scenario includes an application of the normative fire gas temperature curve on the bottom flange of the entire girder for a period of 180 minutes. It is computed using sequentially coupled thermo-elastic Finite Element Method analyses. These account for heat conductivity, radiation and convection. The FEM model consists of a combination of 3D hexahedral and tetrahedral solid finite elements and uses temperature-dependent material and physical parameters, whose values are taken after the experiments presented in Eurocodes. Numerical results presented here demonstrate a fundamental role of the lower flange in carrying fire loads according to this scenario and show a contribution of the ribs and of the welds to the strength of the entire structure.
Increasing Project Effectiveness by Combining the FMEA Method Results and the Costs of Quality (Based on the Example of an Employee Relationship Management Project)
Authors: Lipka Anna , Giszterowicz Agnieszka
Published: June 2021

Objective: This article presents a project focused on the stabilization of employment in a multi-generational organization in the scope of human resources –specifically, employee relationship management.

Methodology: The type of project was evaluated by taking into account different typological criteria. The employee generations were defined by providing time ranges based on dates of birth. All important project stages were presented according to the newest PMI 2017 methodology, with particular attention to the selection of the model of the project team and the division of tasks within the team. The critical path method was used in the description of the course of project activities.

Findings: The method of determination of project success factors was specified.

Value Added: In accordance with the title of the article, it was, however, shown how one can combine the identification of the level of project risk (using failure mode and effects analysis – FMEA) and the costs of quality to increase the project effectiveness.

Recommendations: Projects of this type are important in these organizations where the risk of loyalty is high, which leads to negative economic implications. The advantages from such projects can, however, affect more than the employer.
Leading Intercultural Virtual Teams During the COVID-19 Pandemic – Research Results
Authors: Chmielecki Michał
Published: June 2021

Objective: The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has been officially classified as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), meaning the infection is progressing faster and faster in many countries simultaneously. The United States of America has announced a travel ban on 28 European countries, many countries have closed universities, schools and kindergartens, and large gatherings of people have been forbidden. Many companies including Google, Apple and Microsoft encourage or mandate employees to adopt a work-from-home policy. For companies in the modern technology industry, the infrastructure and policy necessary for remote working are undoubtedly already implemented. However, for many smaller companies and organizations the situation was very different. Remote working and virtual team management did not occur or were limited to only a few people. The aim of the article is to present the problems of leading virtual intercultural teams, with particular emphasis on the situation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology: Contemporary texts in the domain of cross-cultural leadership have been reviewed. Relevant existing research has been reviewed and primary research conducted. The latter consisted of 24 IDIs (Individual In-depth Interviews) with employees from various Polish organizations.

Findings: The COVID-19 pandemic has forced thousands of enterprises to let their employees work remotely, but many of these companies were not as technologically prepared for the situation as they thought. We are faced with increasing international cooperation and coordination. The outbreak of COVID-19 has accelerated the need for clear standards in remote and virtual teamwork. The article analyzed the positive and negative aspects of the impact of COVID-19 on organizations and ways of virtual leadership.

Value Added: This article answers the questions about the main problems faced by managers who had to lead teams in a virtual way.

Recommendations: The author is aware of the fact that this is only an exploratory study. It is recommended that in order to gain a fuller picture of the issues underlying the findings, quantitative research with large number of respondents should be undertaken.
Lean Management Implementation in Small and Medium Sized Companies – A Success Case Study in a Manufacturing Process
Authors: Romana Fernando
Published: June 2021

Objective: The aim of this paper is to understand a production system of a forging and presses structure of a centenary factory in terms of a cultural change on the management approach.

Methodology: The study was focused on many aspects such as the pieces production lead time, a time study of the setups, the Overall Equipment Effectiveness determination for the Computer Numeric Control machinery and an analysis of the production cells operational flow.

Findings: For the aspects that were analysed during the study, the problems are identified, and the root causes determined. At the end of the assessment stage Lean tools and concepts for fixing the problems were proposed, like new rules for production planning, setups procedures, 5S toll usage and a Lean implementation plan that is adapted to the company.

Value Added: The high industrial competitivity has dictated the development for this sector that – allied with the inconstant and unstable economic environment – makes the companies very vulnerable and highly dependent of the global market. This is a concern of special relevance for the Small and Medium Size companies that are increasingly adopting Lean solutions to continuously improve their operational value chain and the management approach, for a more systemic way of thinking.

Recommendations: For some of the solutions an impact study with their implementation was made. An analysis of the success factors proposed in the literature that were verified during the assessment stage of the case study was performed as well.
Measuring the Accuracy of Aggregates Computed from a Statistical Register
Authors: Alleva Giorgio , Falorsi Piero Demetrio , Petrarca Francesca , Righi Paolo
Published: June 2021

The Italian National Statistical Institute (Istat) is currently engaged in a modernization programme that foresees a significant revision of the methods traditionally used for the production of official statistics. The main concept behind this transformation is the use of the Integrated System Statistical Registers, created by a massive integration of administrative archives and survey data. In this article, we focus on how to measure the accuracy of register estimates of a population total from measurements calculated at the unit level. We propose the global mean squared error (GMSE) as a statistical quantity suitable for measuring accuracy in the context of the production of official statistics. It can be defined to explicitly consider the main sources of uncertainty that may affect registers. The article suggests a feasible calculation strategy for the GMSE that allows National Statistical Institutes to build algorithms that can promptly be applied for each user request, thus improving the relevance, transparency and confidence of official statistics. Through a simulation study, we verified the efficacy of the proposed strategy.
Influence of habitat features of urban streetscapes on richness and abundance of avian species
Authors: Dutta Sarbasis , Saha Goutam Kumar , Mazumdar Subhendu
Published: June 2021

In human-dominated landscapes, roads are known to negatively influence birds causing decline in species richness, as well as reduction in the number of avian species. However, linear stretches of green spaces formed by roadside plantations in urban streetscapes can support diverse avian communities. In spite of being an integral habitat feature of urban areas, there is a clear paucity of studies on avian diversity in urban streetscapes. The present study was carried out in Kolkata, where data on avian species richness and abundance was collected from 16 randomly placed belt transects (replicates), each of 500 m length and 20 m width, on different major roads throughout the study area keeping a minimum gap of 200 m between adjacent transects to avoid data overlapping. Each of these transects were traversed on foot twice in a month from January to March 2017 during days with calm weather conditions. We recorded 31 species of birds belonging to 8 orders and 19 families, of which maximum species belonged to the order Passeriformes (13 species). We found that both abundance and species richness of birds in transects with higher number of trees (78±4.1 individuals and 19.55±1.703 species of birds) were significantly higher than transects with fewer trees (53.74±2.5 individuals and 9.5±0.789 species of birds). Amongst various habitat features along these streetscapes, the total number of trees positively influenced both species richness (GLMM: F1, 90=14.485, P<0.05) and abundance of birds (GLMM: F1, 90=8.081, P<0.05). However, the other land use variables (i.e. number of bushes, waterbodies, markets and buildings) neither influenced the abundance of birds nor the species richness. Our findings can be useful for urban development to perceive the importance of various habitat features in urban streetscapes in sustaining avian diversity.
Conservation management rules for reconstructing Moluccan Scrubfowl (Eulipoa wallacei) egg-laying habitats
Authors: Saiya Halvina Grasela , Heij Cornelis Johannes
Published: June 2021

This research focused on the efforts of indigenous people invested into the reconstruction of damaged Moluccan Scrubfowl (Eulipoa wallacei) egg-laying habitats, as well as, on the ways how the current conditions of the landscapes are conserved by indigenous people. This is a qualitative and quantitative study that used a combination of observation and interview methods. We also used descriptive analysis and spatial analysis including remote sensing techniques. The results showed that the abrasion process that destroyed the Moluccan Scrubfowl egg-laying habitat left a remaining sandbar with an area of 1,161 m2, or about 17% of the area of the initial sandbar. Even though the habitat has not fully recovered, Moluccan Scrubfowls still lay their eggs there. The details of the reconstruction activities carried out by indigenous people are as follows: making embankments, adding sand to the eroded area, replanting supporting coastal vegetation, and making breeding sites. In addition, efforts were also made to restore the surrounding support areas that were also damaged. The activities carried out were as follows: replantation of coral reefs, turtle breeding, nurseries and mangrove planting, nurseries of other plant species such as cloves and nutmegs, picking up trash along the coast, and early education for children in how to be environmentally conscious.
Woodpecker foraging activity in oak-dominated hill forests in Hungary
Authors: Komlós Mariann , Botta-Dukát Zoltán , Winkler Dániel , Aszalós Réka , Ónodi Gábor
Published: June 2021

We documented the foraging activities of woodpeckers on selected trees in an established conservation-oriented management study in five oak-dominated forests in Hungary. We examined the tree species preference of woodpeckers as a group and the impact of specific tree characteristics on the habitat use of woodpeckers. We estimated the percentage of visible foraging signs on the trunks and upper limbs of selected trees through the winter and early spring of 2019–2020. Based on the Jacobs’ index, woodpeckers preferred oak species for foraging and most foraging signs were on limbs rather than trunks. Foraging signs on trunks were more frequent on those of larger diameters and greater heights. It was also found that the lower the tree, the greater the effect of its diameter on the occurrence of signs.
Diet of the Red-footed Falcon (Falco vespertinus) in Cyprus during autumn migration
Authors: Alivizatos Haralambos , Kassinis Nikolaos
Published: June 2021

The diet of the Red-footed Falcon (Falco vespertinus) was studied at Akrotiri Peninsula, Cyprus, in October 2008, during the autumn migration. Based on 180 pellets collected that represented 3,066 prey items, the diet consisted exclusively of invertebrates, nearly all preys were insects. Winged ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) formed 94% of the diet by number of specimens and 76% of biomass. Beetles (Coleoptera), mainly Carabidae and Scarabaeidae, made up 5% of the prey numbers but 22.5% of biomass. The other preys were made up by small numbers of earwigs (Dermaptera), true bugs (Hemiptera) and snails (Gastropoda).
Different Management Functions in Housing Operation Practice: Ukrainian Case Study
Authors: Nikolaiev Vsevolod , Shcherbyna Andrii , Siniak Nikolai , Nikolaieva Tetiana
Published: June 2021

The analytical part of the article describes the situation after 1990s, when the residential housing stock in most Central and Eastern European countries was privatized, in poor condition, and required costly major repairs at the expense of new owners, which was impossible in terms of finance. In this situation the building maintenance and operation functions are transferred to private or municipal management companies, or remain executed directly by owners’ organizations.

The article examines existing services proposed to customers as residents, not taking account the functions of residents as building co-owners. The authors studied the relevant theories and legislation, comparing the current building maintenance and facility management functions to strategic functions of asset and property management. It was shown that the different interests of consumers and owners should be covered by different functions of professional managers.

The obstacle is that the structure of residential housing management companies mixes them in a dual customer and owner body. This creates contradictions between the aim to minimize customer’s expenses and the need to preserve assets and property.

A conclusion was reached to separate the ownership and property management of houses.
Real Estate Developers Insight on the Critical Barriers to Sustainable Housing Delivery
Authors: Oluleye Ifeoluwa Benjamin , Oyetunji Abiodun Kolawole , Ogunleye Bamidele Mukaila , Olukolajo Michael Ayodele
Published: June 2021

Sustainability has been advocated in the housing sector in developing nations but its adoption is hampered with myriads of barriers. This study investigates the critical impediments to sustainable housing delivery.

To achieve this, 18 commonly used barriers in existing literature were selected for investigation in this study. Structured questionnaires were administered to 91 housing developers within metropolitan Lagos, Nigeria and analyzed using both weighted mean and factor analysis.

The ranking and normalization analysis showed that out of these investigated barriers, deficiency in government motivations for sustainable housing, non-existence of sustainability enforcement and the absence of information on the sustainable building technologies database were the topmost three critical challenges to sustainable housing delivery. The factor analysis also showed that the underlying factor groupings of the critical barriers can be classified into technology and cost, knowledge and awareness, policy implementation, client and economic related barriers.

These research findings have added to the sustainable housing literature within the context of Nigeria. They also create a reliable blueprint which would assist all stakeholders in taking the sustainable approach to ameliorate these impediments, thus promoting sustainability attainment in housing delivery.
Impact of fiscal institutions on public finances in the European Union: Review of evidence in the empirical literature
Authors: Gorčák Martin , Šaroch Stanislav
Published: June 2021

This paper examines the impact of budgetary institutions on public finances in the European Union on the basis of a critical survey of the relevant theoretical and empirical literature. In general, the authors find that fiscal institutions (namely fiscal rules) have successfully contributed to greater fiscal sustainability, reduced procyclicality of fiscal policies within the EU, and increased national ownership of fiscal rules by strengthening national fiscal frameworks. A fiscal reaction function was one of the widely used methods to determine the principal variables affecting fiscal outcomes. Some authors used cyclically-adjusted fiscal outcomes as the dependent variable representing the discretionary fiscal policy-making whereas others put emphasis on other fiscal outcomes. The samples of countries covered mostly the EU Member States, representing rather homogenous samples in the context of common EU fiscal framework. Institutional aspects used as independent variables differed significantly among authors and some could be added for future research. Based on the literature survey, several recommendations were made for fiscal policy-making.
Desigualdad en el acceso a internet en México y la afectación en el ejercicio del derecho humano a la información
Authors: Alcalá Casillas Miryam Georgina
Published: June 2021

Este artículo aborda el derecho humano a la información como aquel que implica la libertad de buscar, difundir y recibir mensajes o contenidos de toda índole, en igualdad de condiciones, sin consideración de fronteras y a través de cualquier medio o procedimiento; y por lo cual, es un derecho indispensable para conocer y ejercer otros derechos políticos, sociales, económicos y culturales: como la participación ciudadana, la libre expresión o el acceso a la cultura. En tal sentido, internet converge con el derecho a la información porque como medio tecnológico y comunicativo permite al individuo formar opiniones orientadas (informarse), participar en el proceso de intercambio y debate (comunicarse) y colaborar con el crecimiento colectivo (formarse). En consecuencia, carecer del acceso a internet o tener desigualdad de oportunidades para ingresar a la red afecta tanto el ejercicio del derecho humano a la información como el de otros derechos. Para determinar esta desigualdad se implementaron técnicas de investigación documental, analítica y medición de indicadores; con las que se puede afirmar que si bien el acceso a la red y al derecho a la información es contemplado jurídicamente a nivel nacional e internacional; acceder a internet no es posible para todos los sectores de la población mexicana, porque a pesar de que existen políticas públicas para ofrecer servicios de internet, la cobertura es insuficiente, las velocidades son inestables y predominan las corporaciones privadas con precios inasequibles; aspectos que influyen negativamente en el derecho a la información.
Diversificación de producto e internacionalización de las empresas mexicanas
Authors: Galván Vera Antonio , García Fernández Francisco , Delgado Rivas Jesús Gerardo
Published: June 2021

El artículo se realiza para aportar evidencia a si las empresas mexicanas que diversifican en sus productos son más propensas a internacionalizar sus unidades de negocio. El estudio se centra en empresas mexicanas que cotizan en la bolsa de valores para encontrar evidencia con respecto a la propensidad de las actividades multi-segmento y de mercados distintos al de origen de estas firmas que tienen una participación de mercado representativa. La metodología es cuantitativa y descriptiva, se utilizaron variables como ventas, ingresos netos y activos totales para establecer los patrones de comportamiento de la empresa. Las empresas buscan diversificar para crecer, tener nuevos productos dentro del mercado y entrar a otros, todo esto lleva costos que podrán tener beneficios asociados al riesgo que la lleve a poder maximizar sus beneficios. El análisis se extiende en conocer si las actividades son en segmentos únicos y múltiples, así como el operar en mercados diferentes al nacional. Los resultados muestran las empresas que diversifican en esta economía emergente, así como aquellas que amplían su estrategia a nivel internacional. La mayoría de las empresas mexicanas que optan por diversificarse y operar internacionalmente; encaran retos como los distintos costos que esta implica debido a la inexperiencia en los mercados extranjeros y las restricciones institucionales de los mercados emergentes. Así mismo, algunos resultados indican que, a través del tiempo son capaces de aprovechar los beneficios de una mayor diversificación internacional que da como resultado rendimientos positivos porque ganan conocimiento y experiencia.
Trabajo turístico y calidad de vida laboral. Una percepción de los trabajadores de la hotelería
Authors: Domínguez Albiter Karla Isabel , Vargas Martínez Elva Esther , Zizumbo Villarreal Lilia , Velázquez Castro Judith Alejandra
Published: June 2021

El turismo en general y la hotelería en particular se muestran como grandes generadores de empleo en México y el mundo; no obstante, diferentes estudios han puesto en evidencia las condiciones laborales que prevalecen en el trabajo turístico, por no lograr la calidad de vida que se requiere al interior de las empresas. El objetivo de esta investigación tuvo como propósito analizar la influencia del trabajo turístico sobre la calidad de vida laboral del personal de la hotelería de la ciudad de Querétaro, México; un destino industrial y turístico que se ha convertido en ícono del empleo y con la más alta calidad de vida de sus habitantes. La investigación utilizó una metodología cuantitativa, aplicando un cuestionario autoadministrado a trabajadores de niveles directivo, administrativo y operativo. Los resultados muestran que la percepción del personal sobre el trabajo turístico y la calidad de vida laboral es positiva, pero en un nivel bajo; los directivos y los trabajadores con mayor preparación son quienes mejor aprecian ambas variables. Se observa una fuerte y positiva relación en todas las dimensiones y se comprueba una influencia del trabajo turístico sobre la calidad de vida laboral, donde la estabilidad laboral es uno de los factores determinantes. El estudio resulta relevante para el campo turístico contribuyendo a mejorar las condiciones laborales del sector.
Factores habilitantes del emprendimiento de base tecnológica en instituciones de educación superior con limitada trayectoria emprendedora en Colombia
Authors: Benavides-Sánchez Edward Andrés , Castro-Ruíz Camilo Andrés , Quintero-Angel Mauricio
Published: June 2021

Las instituciones de educación superior como centros de desarrollo de Emprendimientos de Base Tecnológica (EBT), son una de las apuestas estratégicas para incentivar el surgimiento y consolidación de empresas con alto componente científico-tecnológico. Este estudio busca identificar los factores habilitantes del fomento de una cultura por el EBT en instituciones de educación superior con limitada trayectoria en emprendimiento en Colombia, a partir de un estudio de caso en el sistema de regionalización de la Universidad del Valle (Colombia). La metodología empleó la técnica World Café en sesiones de grupo interdisciplinarias con coordinadores de programas académicos de la Universidad del Valle, sede Palmira, a quienes se indagó por sus percepciones sobre el EBT y se solicitó bajo un esquema de trabajo colaborativo la identificación de fortalezas, debilidades, oportunidades y amenazas, que se sometieron a análisis de contenido. Los resultados reflejan que el desarrollo de una cultura por el EBT exige un elevado uso de recursos y se requiere especialmente fortalecer el liderazgo estratégico que permita incluir el EBT en la planeación estratégica y táctica, así como en la definición de metas e indicadores para su seguimiento en el tiempo. Así mismo, deben fortalecerse las capacidades institucionales, prever un presupuesto, la cualificación del talento humano, inversión en laboratorios y relacionamiento con actores del ecosistema emprendedor. Finalmente, se concluye que el EBT es una oportunidad para la articulación Universidad-Empresa-Estado-Sociedad y la consolidación negocios que dinamizan el tejido empresarial, generan recursos y reconocimiento para las instituciones de educación superior.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Effect of Strain Hardening Characteristics on Curved Flaring Process of Pure Copper and Brass
Authors: Al-Qahwaji Tahseen , Jobory Yasir
Published: June 2021

An experimental and numerical study of tube curved flaring process was conducted
to investigate the effect of strain hardening characteristic of material on the process
using two metals that differ in strain hardening characteristic which are pure copper
and brass (70-30) by using curved dies which have curvature ratio ( ρ
rd
) of (ρ
rd
=6)
and (ρ
rd
=12) and base radius of die (rd=24mm) and (ρ) is the radius of curvature.
The experimental part was included experiments on specimens with an outer
diameter of (39 mm) and a wall thickness of (2 mm). The expansion process was
carried out for different expansion ratios that it was reached to about (32%). The
results were showed that the strain hardening exponent of pure Copper more than
Brass (70-30) and its value reached (0.54) for pure Copper and (0.49) for Brass
(70-30). However, this paper concluded a study of the effect of strain hardening
characteristics on the curved flaring process. It was found that the increasing of
flaring ratio and relative axial displacement of the die through the specimen are
caused increase in the relative forming stress, and its value is significant in
expanded tubes with high strain hardening characteristic and it is about (0.77) in
Brass and (1.42) in Copper. It also found that a little difference in the deformation
of specimens' geometry which means that the deformation is not affected by the
strain hardening characteristic and there is no significant difference in strain
distribution. The study also included a numerical simulation using the finite
element ANSYS program. The results obtained are compared with experimental
data and showed good agreement.
Theoretical and Experimental Analysis for Performance of Wind Turbine
Authors: Hassan danok Suaad , Glal Twfek Kamal , Adel Mansour Esraa
Published: June 2021

This research depends on carrying out an applied and numerical analysis for capability to utilize winds turbines which considered as means of renewable and friendly energy to environment, and how to make use of this technology to generate electric energy in Kirkuk city. Where it was studied shifting kinetic energy of winds into mechanic energy and has been accomplishes install a horizontal-turbine in one of work sites in Kirkuk city of (16m) height of the ground level. It has tri-blades of (400W) power. It has been connected to an electric system supply designed and manufacture during the research period. In order to measure the voltage-difference and electric current consequently to measure the power and energy produced from the wind turbine and changed according to the wind speed alteration. Gauge records for two time seasons are taken by using the technology-programming of delicate controller in simultaneous work with meteorological system, so that it can set data-principle to be analyzed by using (MATLAB) program to find and check theoretical generated power compared with practical results and find the range of validity to generate the sufficient energy for domestic consumption. The results shows that summer season is better than winter season in using wind turbine in Kirkuk city. As the monthly energy rate produce during summer season has emerged to ten-time than monthly energy rate produced during winter season.
Unpacking Climate Change Adaptation Strategies: An Account of Smallholder Farmer Experiences in Chimanimani District, Zimbabwe
Authors: Musarandega Happwell , Chingombe Wisemen , Pillay Rajendran
Published: June 2021

This article reports on a study that analysed a myriad of adaptation practices adopted by smallholder farmers in Chimanimani District, Zimbabwe. Using a predominantly qualitative design, some in-depth interviews were conducted with purposefully selected key respondents. Focus group discussions with 8 to 12 smallholder farmers per group were conducted in each of the district’s 22 wards. These were corroborated by the guided observation method. The data was analysed using thematic content analysis, where broad strands of responses were synthesised and condensed into narrow themes that made them easier to interpret. Accordingly, smallholder farmers opted for drought tolerant crop and animal species, indigenous seed preservation techniques, aquaculture and conservation farming. The off-farm practices included craftwork, bee-keeping, artesian mining and trade. The sustainable livelihoods framework (SLF) was used as an analytical lens to appraise the sustainability of smallholder farmers’ choices and practices. Therefore, as farmers switched from one practice to another, many of their adaptive options reflected short-term livelihood benefits with concealed medium- to long-term environmental detriments. Strangely, some malpractices have their roots in short-sighted government policy frameworks mainstreamed to alleviate grass roots poverty. A thorough evaluation of adaptive policies is recommended so as to strengthen the adaptive capacity of smallholder farmers against the background of climate change.
Statins in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Rosuvastatin capabilities
Authors: Bubnova Marina G. , Ilchenko Marianna Y. , Lebedev Petr A.
Published: June 2021

The article discusses the modern principles of lipid-lowering therapy and approaches to its administration in terms of levels of cardiovascular risk. The characteristics of groups of patients with different levels of cardiovascular risk (from low to high) in primary prevention are given. The article defines the target levels of low- density lipoprotein cholesterol, which should be achieved with the modern lipid-lowering therapy. The clinical effects of statins in primary prevention are presented. The clinical results of two large studies of rosuvastatin that have changed the approach to statin prescribing in primary prevention are discussed. The article presents the results of the analysis of long-term follow-up of patients in the primary prevention after the completion of randomized clinical studies. Approaches to the use of statins for novel coronavirus infection are considered.
Aortic stiffness and content of adipokines in the serum in persons of European and South Asian ethnic
Authors: Brodskaya Tatiana A. , Repina Nina I. , Nevzorova Vera A. , Plekhova Natalia G. , Shumatov Valentin B.
Published: June 2021

Aim. To evaluate the cardiovascular risk (CVR) based on arterial stiffness and content of adipokines in young-aged persons of different ethnicity (European and South Asian). Materials and methods. 290 persons of European (Slavic) and South Asian (Korean) ethnicity aged from 19 to 49 years with and without arterial hypertension (AH) were examined. Clinical, anthropometric, laboratory examinations were performed, levels of resistin and adiponectin of blood were assessed. Total CVR was assessed by SCORE scale, patients under the age of 40 years were assessed by relative risk scale. Aortic stiffness was examined by non-invasive arteriography. Results. Patients of European ethnicity had higher blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), levels of resistin and adiponectin. Pulse wave velocity in the aorta (PWVA) did not differ significantly in ethnic groups. According to the SCORE scale in individuals of the European and South Asian races in general groups and groups with arterial hypertension a moderate absolute risk was determined, in individuals under 40 years of age a moderate relative risk was determined without a significant difference between the groups. However increased levels of PWVA (more than 10 m/s) were registered more often in Korean ethnicity (46.9% compared to Slavic ethnicity, 22.2%). Closer reliable correlations between the level of BP and BMI, WC, PWVA were revealed in Korean ethnicity. Ethnic differences in correlation of adipokines in blood and their dependence on anthropometric and hemodynamic characteristics were described. Conclusion. The assessment of CVR according to traditional scales does not always accurately represent its real level. New information was obtained on the features of adipokine metabolism and its connections with early manifestations of vascular remodeling in young-aged depending on the race. Taking into account ethnic differences, we recommend in-depth diagnostics of CVR in South Asians. The data can be useful for the design of personalized programs for the diagnostics and assessment of CVR.