bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crowdfunding for Non-Profits
Authors: Manzoor Amir
Published: December 2019

Crowdfunding has been applied to equity investments as well as in a preproduction consumer purchase model. Crowdfunding is projected to become a $US90-96 billion industry by 2025, and is being touted as a valuable tool for fundraising for charitable non-profits. For leading non-profits around the globe a critical question is whether charitable crowdfunding is a threat or an opportunity for them. This chapter demonstrates that charitable crowdfunding represents a powerful new fundraising tool for leading, start-ups and not for profit organisations. This discussion contributes to the financial knowledge, specifically in the online crowdfunding and non-profit organisations and concludes that non-profit organisations through crowdfunding has the potential to expand the donor base.
Human-Factor-Based Risk Management in the Healthcare to Improve Patient Safety
Authors: Streimelweger Barbara , Wac Katarzyna , Seiringer Wolfgang
Published: December 2019

‘Patient Safety' tries to increase safety and transparency within healthcare systems for both patients and professionals. Within the healthcare sector, workflows become more and more complex, while time and money become scarce. As a consequence, the risk awareness, fault management and quality aspects become more important. One of the most well established risk assessment method is Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) – a reliability analysis and risk assessment tool widely used in various industries. The traditional FMEA is using a Risk Priority Number (RPN) ranking system to evaluate and identify the risk level of failures, and to prioritize actions. However, there are several shortcomings in obtaining a quality estimate of the failure ratings with FMEA, especially when human factors play an important role. Thus, a new risk assessment method called HFdFMEA (Human Factor dependent FMEA) based on the dependency of used parameters and the observation of human factors, is proposed to address the drawbacks. The opportunity to improve patient safety is discussed as result of HFdFMEA.
Risks Assessment using Fuzzy Petri Nets for ERP Extension in Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Bharathi S. Vijayakumar , Pramod Dhanya , Ramakrishnan Raman
Published: December 2019

In this paper a Fuzzy Petri Net model (FPN) is developed and tested to assess the risks involved during Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) adoption in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This model pertains only to the risks and risk factors identified in the extension phase of ERP adoption in SMEs. In other words, this work studied only the risk perception relating to extending the ERP integration between the supply chain partners. This paper addresses the problems of risk identification and assessment during the extension phase. There are two motives for this research namely, one to define the ERP extension risks and two to assess and quantify the risks in a simple yet robust model. The uniqueness of this paper is three dimensional because in addition to presenting and quantifying the risk values in FPN, the risks are categorized and further graded for decision support to SME stakeholders. Realignment and standardization of SMEs business process, lack of support from larger enterprises and incompatibility issues are perceived to be most critical risk factors.
A New Maturity Model for Project Risk Management in the Automotive Industry
Authors: Irizar Jose , Wynn Martin George
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this article is to present a new maturity model for the assessment and ongoing management of project risk management capability in the automotive industry. The research design is based on a multi-project case study analysis in a major German automotive company. The approach is qualitative and inductive, using 12 in-depth interviews with major stakeholders in the project management function in the company to provide data for the construction of the initial maturity model. This model is then verified and refined via an on-line survey and three follow-up interviews.The findings provide material for the construction of a new maturity model that can be used for the assessment of project risk management capability and as a tool for on-going monitoring and improvement. The model is structured around four dimensions of risk management – identification, assessment, allocation and appetite – and has four maturity stages – rudimentary, intermediate, standardised and corporate. The model is based on a detailed analysis of in-depth interview material in a specific industry sector. It can be used as a basis for similar research in other industries. The model adds to existing risk management maturity models and is unique in being specific to the automotive industry. It can be used by risk and project managers, and can also be adapted to other industry sectors.
SMEs in Nigeria
Authors: Oni Oluwasola
Published: December 2019

Research in the area of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and coopetition has been ongoing for a considerable length of time. However, such studies have focused on SMEs in developed countries while there is very limited research in the same area with a focus on SMEs in Africa and developing countries. This research therefore aims to explore possible benefits and barriers that SMEs in Nigeria would experience in the adoption of coopetition. Considering the fact that it is a relatively new area of research, existing theories examining similar fields of study will be analysed with the aim of generating a theoretical framework through which factors affecting the phenomenon in the country may emerge.
The Impacts of Trait Emotional Intelligence and Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy on Perceived Behavioral Control Among Undergraduate Students
Authors: Torres-Coronas Teresa , Vidal-Blasco María-Arántzazu
Published: December 2019

The economy needs entrepreneurs to identify market opportunities to offer solutions to social problems. Therefore, understanding the factors that affect entrepreneurial intention has become an important research topic. This article examines perceived behavioral control as a determinant of entrepreneurial intention. It also analyzes how trait emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial self-efficacy impact on perceived behavioral control. The resulting model shows that integrating these competences in entrepreneurship programs has a positive impact on perceived control behavior. Gender implications are discussed.
Information and Communication Technology Adoption in SMEs in Sri Lanka
Authors: Athapaththu Jayani Chamarika , Nishantha Busige
Published: December 2019

Information communication technology (ICT), considered as one of the major impacts of organizational performance and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), plays a significant role in the Sri Lankan economy as a strategic partner. Thus, the article examines current levels of ICT usage and perceived barriers to ICT adoption in SMEs in Sri Lanka. The findings revealed that despite the majority of respondents using IT for essential functions, they lacked proper internal IT infrastructures, personal motivation, had internet connection issues, trust issues, and lack of knowledge. These factors were identified as the perceived barriers to ICT adoption in SMEs in Sri Lanka. Data was collected from 67 SME owners from Sri Lanka, except the North province, in November 2016. The findings offer valuable insights to policy makers in general and to the SME owners. The methodology, implications, and suggestions are also discussed.
Challenges for Innovation Due to Firm Size
Authors: Zucoloto Graziela Ferrero , Nogueira Mauro Oddo
Published: December 2019

This chapter analyses the innovative capacity of small firms compared to medium and large firms in Brazilian industry. It presents the Schumpterian debate regarding the role of small and large firms as inductors of innovation, including a brief discussion about the barriers and opportunities for innovation faced by small businesses, particularly in developing countries. The empirical analysis is based on the Brazilian Innovation Survey, which is used to compare the innovative efforts undertaken by small, medium and large enterprises. Its main findings are that in Brazil, large companies predominate in the creation of new products and processes, while smaller perform more effort than those in innovations associated with processes modernization. However, from the observation of the industry sectorial structure, it identifies that in high-tech sectors, Brazilian small companies outperform large in efforts in R&D.
The Importance Role E-Collaboration Capability and Information System Maturity on Knowledge Sharing and SMEs Marketing Performance
Authors: Ardyan Elia , Nurtantiono Andri , Istiyanto Budi , Retnawati Berta Bekti
Published: December 2019

This article discusses the effect of e-collaboration capability and information system maturity on knowledge sharing and SMEs marketing performance. This study was conducted at SMEs in Central Java which had used information system and technology in collaborating with partners and customers. There were 160 respondents in this research who were the owners or managers of SMEs in Central Java, Indonesia. This research used structural equation modeling analysis. AMOS version 21 was used to process the data. The result of this research showed that all proposed hypotheses were accepted. First, e-collaboration capability has positively and significantly influenced knowledge sharing. Second, knowledge sharing has positively and significantly influenced SME marketing performance. Third, e-collaboration capability has positively and significantly influenced SME marketing performance. Fourth, information system maturity has positively and significantly influenced knowledge sharing. Fifth, information system maturity has positively and significantly influenced SME marketing performance.
Exploring the Spheres of Crowdfunding
Authors: Imarhiagbe Bernard Owens
Published: December 2019

This chapter reviews research and policy literatures on the spheres of crowdfunding. It identifies reward-based, donation-based, equity-based and credit-based crowdfunding with a view to collate relevant information to support crowdfunding knowledgebase and further research. As crowdfunding is a new concept in research literature, it is increasing in popularity in social media, business and research communities. Academic research in crowdfunding is limited and the subject is still evolving as a way of access to finance for seed capital, entrepreneurial projects and other early stage projects. Advanced countries in Europe and North America have recognised the relevance of crowdfunding in varying proportion from one country to another for project fundraising. However, the World Bank confirmed that developing countries are at different stages of recognition of crowdfunding in their policy framework. Although the UK financial regulator, Financial Conduct Authority, has produced a policy statement for crowdfunding and approved some service providers such as crowdfunding platforms, it is still interacting with stakeholders and providing guidance to potential entrepreneurs on the operational models. Crowdfunding is a way of raising small amounts of money from different contributors over the internet for different types of projects. There are huge management implications in the spheres of crowdfunding.
Impact of Mobile Money on Financial Crime, Money Laundering, and Terrorism Financing
Authors: Oyoo Gilbert Ouko
Published: December 2019

Financial crime, money laundering, and terror financing have been perennial menaces that downplay the major headway made in the financial transaction space. Businesses and individuals have found it prudent to always try remaining ahead of the perpetrators behind the vices. The springing into life of the mobile money in the second half of the first decade of this century has revolutionized the manner with which risk management in this respect is handled. In this chapter, the author posits that although mobile money has led to greater financial inclusion, the rate with which the myriad financial crimes have been reported over the past decade in the face of this phenomenon raises the need to stay abreast of developments in this space.
Effect of Inconel 625 on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Gas Tungsten Arc Welded Inconel-713LC Superalloy Joints
Authors: Tzeng Yu Chih , Wu Chih Ting
Published: December 2019

This study investigates how the use of Inconel filler metal 625 affects the microstructure and mechanical properties of gas tungsten arc welded joints of an IN-713LC nickel-based superalloy. Due to their difference in composition, obvious weld beads could be found by X-ray detection. In addition, it was found that the γ' strengthening phase was absent and carbide was present between the matrix and the weld bead during gas tungsten arc welding. These carbides are strongly related to the formation of cracking and weld shrinkage during solidification. The absence of the γ' strengthening phase and the presence of weld shrinkage and cracking led to a decrease in the hardness, tensile strength, and elongation of the welded pieces.
On the Stress State of a Heterogeneous Plate Made of a Material with a Step Change in Elastic Characteristics in the Presence of an Inclusion System and Temperature Influence
Authors: Kanetsyan Eghine , Mkrtchyan Musheg , Mkhitaryan Suren
Published: December 2019

In the formulation of thermoelasticity and in the framework of the conventional theory of thermal stresses, the problem on the stress state of an elastic piecewise-homogeneous plane or an infinite plate at non-uniform steady-state heating is considered. On the interface of dissimilar materials, the compound plane is reinforced by a collinear system of absolutely rigid thin inclusions and is subjected to mechanical and thermal influences. First, to determine the temperature distribution in a piecewise-homogeneous plane the corresponding boundary value problem of the theory of steady-state heat conduction is solved using the integral Fourier transform. Solving this problem is reduced to solving a singular integral equation (SIE) that allows an exact solution. Further, the elastic displacements of points of the compound plane, caused by mechanical and temperature influence, are determined by the known methods of thermoselasticity. Based on these results, solving the problem of the contact interaction between the system of inclusions and a compound plane is again reduced to solving SIE, which also allows an exact solution. A special case is considered.
Heat-Acid-Resistant Light Concretes on the Base of Volcanic Tuff Lava and Pumice Aggregates of Armenia
Authors: Arzumanyan Artavazd , Arzumanyan Avetik , Muradyan Nelli
Published: December 2019

The territory of Armenia is characterized by a wide variety of volcanic natural porous rocks with extremely rich natural resources. Tuff stone is one the varieties and is traditionally used as a masonry material, and waste, estimated at millions of cubic meters has accumulated near the mining areas and it’s disposal is an important environmental issue. Slag and pumice stones, as well as some types of tuffs, are used as aggregates for general-construction lightweight concretes, and as heat insulating backfills, etc. Since the 1980s, we have begun systematized scientific studies to identify the natural potential and the most optimal branches for the use of these rocks, where it is possible to obtain the maximum technical and economic benefits through the targeted use of their specific natural properties. Taking into account the conditions of these rock formation, as well as the high prices available on the world market and the demand for lightweight, heat-resistant insulating concrete, first of all, by complex, versatile studies, they are classified by high-temperature properties, technical capabilities and specificity of using some varieties as aggregates for lightweight heat-resistant concrete, with application temperature up to 800...1100°C. It is shown that, compared with the expensive artificial porous heat-resistant aggregates widely used in practice, these rocks are out of concurrence, as the corresponding compositions, porosity of the structure and high-temperature processing were obtained in natural conditions, due to which they do not require manufacturing costs for particular components and high-temperature processing and in the natural form are ready to be used in this area. Along with this, some of them also have high acid resistance and are suitable for use in the most valuable concretes with the simultaneous triple effect of lightness, heat resistance and acid resistance.
New Energy Efficient Technology of Cellular Glass
Authors: Saakyan Emma , Arzumanyan Artavazd , Galstyan Gagik
Published: December 2019

On the base of volcanic glass - perlite, the energy-efficient technology of cellular glass for heat-insulating purposes has been developed. Compositions of nanosized modifier and redox gas formers were developed by the method of experimental-statistical modeling and optimization of probability parameters, allowing to obtain cellular glasses with low average density and almost closed porosity in a single technological process at technologically acceptable temperatures. In the production of cellular glasses (foam glass) of new generation, based on natural glassy rocks of silicate and aluminosilicate composition modified with sodium hydroxide, in the presence of water and gas-forming additives, during mixing and sintering, the components react at the nanoscale level to form glass under low softening temperature and sufficient quantity of foam stabilizers. The main scientific results - the use of nanotechnological modification of amorphous silicate and aluminosilicate rocks in the technology of cellular glass for construction and technical purposes, the development of compositions and method for the production of cellular glass using energy-saving technology with the following performance parameters: average density of 115...250kg/m3, coefficient of thermal conductivity 0,051...0.075W/(m•K), water absorption 1.6...4.0%, compressive strength 0.14...4.20 MPa, hydrolytic glass class I...III.
Problems of Formation of Complex Monolithic Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Ghulyan Armine B. , Tepanyan Garegin L. , Sargsyan Boris J.
Published: December 2019

The features of the structures of complex monolithic reinforced concrete structures are given, the necessity of their organizational and technological design to ensure quality, reduce the duration and safety of construction and installation works is substantiated. A fragment of the formwork for complex curvilinear beams is presented, where the permanent and temporary loads, the permitted steps of the main and secondary beams and remote scaffolds for the PERI and CRAMOS modular formwork systems, which are more common in RA, are calculated in detail.
The Use of Lightweight Concrete Effectiveness in Volcanic Resistant Construction
Authors: Badalyan Maria , Arakelyan Grigor , Karapetyan Amalya
Published: December 2019

The article is devoted to the topical problem - to increase seismic resistance of erected buildings in the Republic of Armenia. Armenia is rich in volcanic rocks of glassy structure, which possess sufficient excess free energy of particles of matter and this energy can be regarded as a work stock that they can accomplish, i.e. can be regarded as kinetic energy. One of the most active rocks in the republic is the lithoid pumice of the Jrauber-Lusavan deposit, a spongy material of an acidic composition, the amorphous phase of which reaches up to 98%. We studied this rock for obtaining lightweight structural concrete using energy-saving technology. The amorphous structure of pumice gives the possibility of expensive Portland cement to be replaced in part by a cheaper bonded binder - a fine-grained mixture of quicklime and aluminosilicate rock. Due to the non-stable state of volcanic pumice, which possesses chemical activity, i.e. property to interact with lime, the composition of lightweight concrete, which can be used for the manufacture of blocks, reinforced concrete structures. In studies to regulate and give concrete the necessary properties, a plasticizing additive of the firm Sika Visco Crete 510P and a mineral additive - microsilica were used. Lightweight concrete cement was obtained, where the compressive strength increased to 43.17 MPa in 28-day increments, and 4.1 MPa in the case of bending: and with partial replacement of Portland cement with lime, the strength naturally decreased, because lime is slowly gaining strength, but for a long time, and the strength to break has increased to 4.6 MPa, which is explained by the structure of the neoplasms.
Stone and Brick Work Churches Composition and Structural Features
Authors: Ordoukhanian Evlin
Published: December 2019

One of the typical features of the early Armenian culture of cemetery is its original church architecture. The radical changes in socio-economic and political relations were the basis of 301 cc to proclaim Christianity as a state religion. Church building has a great progress in the high middle Ages (9th-14th cc.) Where stone blocks are used as a building blend together with bricks. In the article, comparisons have been made between the Kirants Monastery and Makaravank, which are located in the same region and were built at the same time. As a result of the study, it is noticeable that these two monasteries, which have been high middle age construction material, have eras and similar buildings (churches, subsidiary structures, cemeteries around). Churches are a cross-shaped central dome and a domed hall volumetric spatial type. The facade is decorated with luxurious decoration, the exterior facades are decorated with colored bricks in Kirants monastery, and in Makaravank, in the form of stone carving. Similarities are seen in structured nodes - entrances and windows. There are remarkable differences in interior decorations - the interior walls of the Kirants monastery are decorated, with a small part of them preserved up to now, and there is no interior decoration in Makaravank.
ETFE Plastic Application for Reconstruction and Preservation of Architectural Structures in Syunik Province, RA
Authors: Babayan Lilit S.
Published: December 2019

Nowdays, the creation of many new and modern architectural structures, modernization of historical and cultural monuments, and the acquisition of new architectural solutions have become possible thanks to the use of new technologies and new construction materials. The discovery of transparent polymer materials in the architectural and construction industry allowed not only to achieve significant lightweight of the buildings but also to create unique and innovative forms for structures and architectural environments. The use of ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) plastic material, which is already a widely used polymer material, is quite perspective in the global and Armenian construction fields. Based on the series of researches and a number of already constructed architectural solutions in international practice, it is clear that the studied material will solve a number of issues for the preservation of the environment and individual structures, that will enable to preserve the established Armenian architecture with contemporary approaches, with a significant contribution in the formulation process of contemporary architecture. In addition, the use of the above-mentioned material in the design process of the new architectural structures can create interesting combinations of traditional and modern forms, in the design of a individual structures, as well as in the formation of separate structures of the architectural complexes by applying the advantages and disadvantages associated with the aesthetic and functional properties of the materials.
Single and Synergistic Effects of Type 2 Cytokines on Eosinophils and Asthma Hallmarks
Authors: Beckert Hendrik , Meyer-Martin Helen , Buhl Roland , Taube Christian , Reuter Sebastian
Published: December 2019

The type 2 cytokines IL-5, IL-13, and IL-4 play an important role in the induction and progression of asthma. According to the Global Initiative for Asthma guidelines, blood eosinophil numbers are one marker that helps to guide treatment decisions in patients suffering from severe forms of asthma. Effects of type 2 cytokines were analyzed, alone or in combination, on eosinophils in blood and other compartments and on the development of asthma symptoms. C57BL/6 mice received a single intranasal application of equimolar amounts of IL-5, IL-13, and IL-4, alone or in combination. Numbers, activation state, and migratory behavior of eosinophils in bone marrow (BM), blood, lung, and bronchoalveolar lavage as well as airway hyperresponsiveness and goblet cell metaplasia were evaluated. Only IL-13 was associated with airway eosinophilia, development of airway hyperresponsiveness, and goblet cell metaplasia, without any synergistic effects. IL-5 increased the number of eosinophils in BM and lung tissue but failed to affect structural changes. IL-4 had similar, but weaker, effects to IL-13. Cytokine combinations synergistically affected eosinophils but failed to enhance IL-13–driven effects on lung function or goblet cell metaplasia. IL-5 and IL-13 markedly increased eosinophil numbers locally in lung and airways and distally in blood and BM, whereas IL-5 and IL-4 only increased eosinophils in lung and BM. IL-13 together with IL-4 failed to demonstrate any synergistic effect. These insights into single and combined effects of type 2 cytokines on disease-driving mechanisms could improve understanding of the impact and effectiveness of new therapies in asthma.
An unavoidable bump: A meta-synthesis of psychotherapists’ experiences of navigating therapy while pregnant
Authors: Way Carrie , Lamers Carolien , Rickard Renee
Published: December 2019

Despite psychotherapists’ pregnancy being a common occurrence with recognised impacts for both clients and clinicians, there remains a dearth of empirical qualitative investigations into the lived experiences of these health professionals. This meta-synthesis therefore aims to generate novel insights and understandings of the experiences of 157 pregnant therapists by integrating the research findings of thirteen qualitative studies exploring the experiences of pregnant and newly post-partum psychotherapists. Utilising Noblit and Hare’s (1988) meta-ethnographic approach, papers were analysed with a view to capturing shared experiences across studies, alongside points of divergence. Analysis led to the development of four key concepts: Identity Changes, Pregnancy necessitates Disclosure, Therapeutic Challenges and Guilt. Pregnancy was related to a multitude of personal and professional challenges, with the impact being most pronounced in the accounts of primiparous, child and trainee therapists. Key clinical implications include the need for continued exploration of the therapeutic impact of pregnancy in both supervision and therapy, revisions to supervisory working practices, prompt disclosure of therapist pregnancy and subsequent reductions to therapeutic fidelity. Future research directions are discussed within.
Psychometric properties of the Italian version of the Experience in Close Relationship Scale 12 (ECR-12): an exploratory structural equation modeling study
Authors: Brugnera Agostino , Zarbo Cristina , Farina Benedetto , Picardi Angelo , Greco Andrea , Lo Coco Gianluca , Tasca Giorgio A , Carlucci Samantha , Auteri Adalberto , Greco Francesco , Compare Angelo
Published: December 2019

The Experiences in Close Relationship Scale (ECR) is one of the most commonly used self-report instruments of adult attachment and has been widely adopted in psychotherapy research. Composed of two subscales, namely Attachment Avoidance and Anxiety, the ECR was recently shortened to a 12-items version, called the ECR-12. Given the importance of extending knowledge on its applicability in understudied populations, our aim was to validate the ECR-12 in a large sample of Italian native-speakers. A total of 1197 participants (73.2% females; mean age=28.53±11.37 years) completed the ECR-12. Each participant also completed other measures of attachment, psychopathology, interpersonal distress, coping strategies, and well-being. An Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling analysis showed an excellent fit of the data, providing support for the two-dimensional orthogonal structure of the ECR-12. In addition, the measurement model was invariant across genders. Both attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance subscales demonstrated good internal reliability, with McDonald’s Omegas and Cronbach’s Alphas above the suggested 0.8 cut-off. Finally, the Italian version of ECR-12 showed adequate convergent, concurrent, and divergent validity. Highly anxious individuals reported the highest levels of maladaptive interpersonal functioning and coping strategies, resulting in lower well-being. Interestingly, both attachment insecurity dimensions predicted higher levels of psychopathology, even after controlling for demographic variables and levels of self-reported relational difficulties. Given the good psychometric properties of the ECR-12, researchers and practitioners in Italy are encouraged to adopt the ECR-12 in their future research on adult attachment in psychotherapy.
A systematic review of psychotherapy research topics (2000-2016): a computer-assisted approach
Authors: Gennaro Alessandro , Gelo Omar C. G. , Lagetto Gloria , Salvatore Sergio
Published: December 2019

The present work aims to empirically map what has been investigated and which issues (i.e. topics) characterize the debates of psychotherapy research, using a computer-assisted, bottom-up method of content analysis. The abstract of papers (N=13,499), published between 2000-2016 and retrieved from a sample of 10 journals selected as representing the field of psychotherapy research, were subjected to a method of automated content analysis. Five different research topics were identified (clinical relationship, clinical efficacy, clinical practice and research, psychopathology, and neuroscientific approaches to mental disorders) and each abstract was labeled according to the retrieved research topic. Two different Chi-square analyses investigated the distributions of research topics over time and among the selected journals. Results concerning the distribution over time highlighted an increase in the clinical relationship and clinical efficacy topics and a decrease in the others. An examination of the distribution among journals showed that psychopathology and neuroscientific approaches to mental disorders were associated with psychiatric journals, while the others were associated with non-psychiatric journals. The findings are discussed in light of the theoretical, methodological, and practical implications offering pointers for a critical understanding of the current psychotherapy research domain.
Sharp Bounds for Oscillatory Integral Operators with Homogeneous Polynomial Phases
Authors: He Danqing , Shi Zuoshunhua
Published: December 2019

We obtain sharp $L^{p}$ bounds for oscillatory integral operators with generic homogeneous polynomial phases in several variables. The phases considered in this paper satisfy the rank one condition that is an important notion introduced by Greenleaf, Pramanik, and Tang. Under certain additional assumptions, we can establish sharp damping estimates with critical exponents to prove endpoint $L^{p}$ estimates.
A Simulation Study for Hybrid Electric Vehicles with Gasoline Compression Ignition Technology
Authors: Won Hyun-Woo
Published: December 2019

Strict pollutants regulations, real driving emissions compliance and CO2 reduction mandates are stretching the boundaries of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) development. Despite major improvements in the last decade, car manufacturers still face challenges in simultaneous abatement of CO2 and local emissions of conventional diesel compression ignition and gasoline spark ignition powertrains. By combining a clean fuel like gasoline with a high efficiency thermodynamic cycle (compression ignition) it is possible to create a powertrain that is clean both globally and locally, and so breaking the historical trade-off between decreasing CO2 vs. pollutants criteria. The concept is known worldwide as Gasoline Compression Ignition (GCI).

Very low vehicle out CO2 cannot be achieved if ICEs are not combined with a hybrid electric powertrain. Saudi Aramco also looks into the possibility of combining GCI with hybrid electric technologies. A 0D simulation of powertrain was performed using the Stateflow® approach and Fuzzy Logic Toolbox™ in MATLAB® and Simulink® on different driving cycles.

The purpose of this paper is to design the control strategies for different hybrid architectures based on certain parameters such as speed and torque, power demand and battery. Optimizing these parameters helped to achieve some significant results. So four hybrid architectures with variable battery sizes were optimized and simulated to prove the possibilities of CO2 benefits. The simulation results showed that a C-class vehicle equipped with a GCI engine and different hybrid powertrains can emit under 64g/km of CO2 like the target from European commission in 2030.
Methodology to Determine the Fast Burn Period Inside a Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine Converted to Natural Gas Lean-Burn Spark Ignition Operation
Authors: Liu Jinlong , Dumitrescu Cosmin
Published: December 2019

The conversion of existing diesel engines to natural-gas operation can reduce the dependence on petroleum imports and curtail engine-out emissions. A convenient way to perform such conversion is by adding a gas injector in the intake manifold and replacing the diesel fuel injector with a spark plug to initiate and control the combustion process. However, challenges may appear with respect to engine’s efficiency and emissions as natural-gas spark-ignition combustion inside a diesel combustion chamber is different to that in conventional spark ignition engines. For example, major difference is the phasing and duration of the fast burn, defined as the period in which the rate of heat release increases linearly with crank angle. This study presents a methodology to investigate the fast burn inside a diesel geometry using heat release data. The algorithm was applied to experimental data from a single-cylinder research engine that operated at several lean-burn conditions that changed spark timing, equivalence ratio, and engine speed. More, a 3D CFD RANS engine simulation was used to validate the developed methodology. As results showed that the fast burn definition used for conventional spark ignition engines can produce errors when applied in retrofitted diesel engines, this methodology can help optimize engine conversion.
A Study of Particulate Emission Formation Mechanism from Injector Tip in Direct-Injection Gasoline Engines
Authors: Imaoka Yoshihiro , Hashizume Yutaka , Inoue Takao , Shiraishi Taisuke
Published: December 2019

The mechanism causing in-cylinder injector tip soot formation, which is the main source of particle number (PN) emissions under operating conditions after engine warm-up, was analyzed in this study. The results made clear a key parameter for reducing injector tip soot PN emissions. An evaluation of PN emissions for different amounts of injector tip wetting revealed that an injector with larger tip wetting forms higher PN emissions. The results also clarified that the amount of deposits does not have much impact on PN emissions. The key parameter for reducing injector tip soot is injector tip wetting that has a linear relationship with injector tip soot PN emissions.
Study of New HILS Test Method with Combination of the Virtual Hybrid Electric Powertrain Systems and the Engine Test Bench
Authors: Okui Nobunori , Kobayashi Masayuki
Published: December 2019

Fuel consumption rate (fuel economy) and exhaust gas emission regulations are being tightened around the world year by year. In Europe, the real driving emission (RDE) method for evaluating exhaust gas emitted from road-going vehicles was introduced after September 2017 for new types of light/medium-duty vehicles, in addition to the chassis dynamometer test using the worldwide harmonized light vehicles test procedure (WLTP). Further, the worldwide harmonized heavy-duty certification (WHDC) method was introduced after 2016 as an exhaust gas emission test method for heavy-duty vehicles. In each evaluation, the tests of vehicles and engines are initiated from cold states.

Heavy-duty hybrid vehicles are evaluated using the vehicle simulation method. For example, the power characteristics of a engine model is obtained during engine warm operation. Therefore, various performances during cold start cannot be precisely evaluated by using simulator.

In this study, we simultaneously control a real engine and vehicle simulation in real time, and examine a new evaluation technique for evaluating various performances by considering the engine temperature.
Investigation of historic, constructive, spatial and pathological aspects regarding the IBC (Instituto Brasileiro do Café) in Presidente Prudente, Brazil
Authors: Grothues Laura Karin , Fioriti Cesar Fabiano
Published: December 2019

In this case study the building of the Brazilian Institute of Coffee (IBC) in Presidente Prudente, Brazil, will be presented. The building was built in the 1940s for the usage of storing coffee. The timber construction is more than 70 years old, which make the shed a historically important heritage to the city. After the revitalization process the building is used as an event center nowadays. The special thing about the architecture of the IBC consists in the construction as a series of wooden latticed porticos. These porticos are still functional and visually appealing, but after so many years of use, they suffer from pathological manifestations. To gain more knowledge about which problems are common in the wooden construction all the porticos were examined in detail. The investigation process revealed, that every portico is affected by at least one of the anomalies studied, even though the degree varies from portico to portico. In addition to the research about the interior of the building, its surrounding was analysed. The urban location and the proximity to other cultural hotspots mean a great chance for the IBC, which should be taken. Comparing the IBC to the cultural center and former coal mine Zollverein in Germany, it becomes clear, that there are several opportunities to reuse a historic building and bind it into city structure. Finally, a critical reflexion of the revitalization process, of the current use and the embedding of the IBC in the environment shows several weaknesses, which could be improved through maintenance and an overall planning concept.
The Alfonso Garofalo pasta factory in Gragnano, Naples, Italy: history, technologies and hypotheses of reuse
Authors: Sicignano Claudia
Published: December 2019

About fifteen water mills settled in the Valley of the Mills of Gragnano. Thanks to new technologies, a few centuries later, fifty-seven new pasta factories were built on the Corso Sancio. The building typology was recurrent and constant. Each of them consisted of a ground floor, three floors in elevation and one or two underground levels that were in the rear close to the Vernotico stream. The complex retreated, for logistical and space reasons, from the road curtain, developing over an area of its own, with a large inner courtyard, a sort of real square, for the movement of horse-drawn carts, then trucks and therefore still several artifacts. For his time Alfonso Garofalo was one of the greatest Italian pasta manufacturers. After more than a hundred years the vertical production processes and the work done in many small building entities proved to be expensive with respect to industrial competitiveness. In other parts of Italy some pasta factories already appeared on a single level, with production in horizontal continuity and mechanized drying. In 1963 the historical Pastificio Alfonso Garofalo closed due to bankruptcy and the industrial activity was closed forever. The real problem that remains today is the reuse of these large abandoned container in the historic center. The building complex in the heart of the town, which is part of Industrial Archeology is now in serious disrepair and deserves to be restored and reused.
Nudges fiscais: a economia comportamental e o aprimoramento da cobrança da dívida ativa
Authors: Feitosa Gustavo Raposo Pereira , Cruz Antonia Camily Gomes
Published: December 2019

A partir da constatação da influência de fatores psicológicos e intuitivos na tomada de decisões do ser humano, este artigo explora conceitos da economia comportamental e o “paternalismo libertário” de Cass Sunstein e Richard Thaler, cujas propostas defendem intervenções indutoras de comportamento dos cidadãos por meio de orientações intituladas de nudges. O estudo propõe a aplicação de nudges na cobrança da dívida ativa pela observação de que o comportamento contribuinte é complexo e não se limita ao cálculo do custo e benefício em não cumprir suas obrigações fiscais. Reflete-se sobre a legalidade de a Administração Tributária induzir decisões no papel de “arquiteto de escolhas” em busca do bem-estar social e na resolução de conflitos. Para tanto, investigam-se experiências estrangeiras que evidenciam os benefícios de aplicação de nudges fiscais. Ao final, dispõe sobre hipóteses de implementação estímulos fiscais com potencial arrecadatório, observadas premissas de diálogo e transparência do Estado Fiscal com o contribuinte.
Effects of genotype and fattening system on the quality of male lamb meat – Part 1: Technological properties and carcass measurements
Authors: Sarı Mehmet , Aksoy Yüksel , Önk Kadir , Erinç Hakan , Işık Serpil A. , Tilki Muammer
Published: December 2019

Abstract. This study was conducted to determine the effect of genotype and
fattening system on carcass measurements of lambs and technological
properties of the male lamb meat (Musculus longissimus dorsi, MLD). The animal material in the study
included 39 Hemşin (H) and 39 Tuj (T) male lambs. Extensive (E),
semi-intensive (SI) and intensive (I) fattening systems were applied in the study, which was completed within 90 d. In the E,
SI and I fattening groups, a total of 48 lambs, including 16 lambs in each
group, were slaughtered. The results of the study indicated that the effect
of genotype on the first-hour yellowness (b*), being one of the colour
parameters of the MLD, and the effect of the fattening system on 1 h
hour redness (a*) and chroma (C*), being among the colour parameters, were
statistically significant (P<0.05). The effect of genotype and
fattening system on MLD pH at 45 min (pH45 min) and 24 h
(pH24 h) after the slaughtering and on the third and seventh hour
drip loss (DL %) was statistically nonsignificant (P>0.05).
The effect of genotype and fattening system on DL,
cooking loss (CL %) and texture (TT) was nonsignificant
(P>0.05), whereas the effect of these factors on water-holding
capacity (WHC %) was significant (P<0.05). The effect of
genotype on external carcass length (ECL), internal carcass length
(ICL), internal hindquarter length (IHL), and carcass and leg conformation was
statistically significant (P<0.05). The effect of the fattening
system on all the carcass measurements except for carcass conformation,
carcass depth (CD) and external chest width (ECW) was statistically
significant (P<0.05). Genotype and fattening system affected
the colour and some quality traits of meat and carcass measurements of
lambs.
A time-varying parameter estimation approach using split-sample calibration based on dynamic programming
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Liu Pan
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Although the parameters of hydrological models are usually regarded as constant, temporal variations can occur in a changing environment. Thus, effectively estimating time-varying parameters becomes a significant challenge. Following a survey of existing estimation methodologies, this paper describes a new method that combines (1) the basic concept of split-sample calibration (SSC), whereby parameters are assumed to be stable for one sub-period, and (2) the parameter continuity assumption, i.e., the differences between parameters in consecutive time steps are small. Dynamic programming is then used to determine the optimal parameter trajectory by considering two objective functions: maximization of simulation accuracy and maximization of parameter continuity. The efficiency of the proposed method is evaluated by two synthetic experiments, one with a simple two-parameter monthly model and the second using a more complex 15-parameter daily model. The results show that the proposed method is superior to SSC alone, and outperforms the ensemble Kalman filter if the proper sub-period length is used. An application to the Wuding River basin indicates that the soil water capacity parameter varies before and after 1972, which can be interpreted according to land use and land cover changes. Further application to the Xun River basin shows that parameters are generally stationary on an annual scale, but exhibit significant changes over seasonal scales. These results demonstrate that the proposed method is an effective tool for identifying time-varying parameters in a changing environment.
Influence of Estuarine Tidal Mixing on Structure and Spatial Scales of Large River Plumes
Authors: Osadchiev Alexander , Shchuka Sergey , Spivak Eduard , Pisareva Maria , Semiletov Igor
Published: December 2019

Abstract. The Yenisei and Khatanga rivers are among the largest estuarine rivers that inflow to the Arctic Ocean. Discharge of the Yenisei River is one order of magnitude larger than that of the Khatanga River. However, spatial scales of buoyant plumes formed by freshwater runoffs from the Yenisei and Khatanga gulfs are similar. This feature is caused by different tidal forcing in these estuaries, which have similar sizes, climate conditions, and geomorphology. The Khatanga discharge exhibits strong tidal forcing that causes formation of a diluted bottom-advected plume in the Khatanga Gulf. This anomalously deep and weakly-stratified plume has a small freshwater fraction and, therefore, occupies a large area on the shelf. The Yenisei Gulf, on the other hand, is a salt-wedge estuary that receives a large freshwater discharge and is less affected by tidal mixing due to low tidal velocities. As a result, the low-salinity and strongly-stratified Yenisei plume has a large freshwater fraction and its horizontal size is relatively small. The obtained results show that estuarine tidal mixing determines freshwater fraction in these river plumes, which governs their depth and area after they spread from estuaries to coastal sea. Therefore, influence of estuarine mixing on spatial scales of a large river plume can be of the same importance as the roles of river discharge rate and wind forcing. In particular, rivers with similar discharge rates can form plumes with significantly different areas, while plumes with similar areas can be formed by rivers with significantly different discharge rates.