bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glomerular Exostosin as a Subtype and Activity Marker of Class 5 Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Wang Chengyu , Liu Yang , Zhang Mingchao , Yang Fan , Xu Feng , Shi Shaolin , Zeng Caihong , Chen Xin , Miao Yiqi , Liu Zhengzhao , Hu Weixin
Published: May 2022

Background and objectives

There have been only several studies on the correlation between glomerular exostosin expression and membranous lupus nephritis. In this study, we validate the previous findings in Chinese patients with class 5 lupus nephritis.

Design, setting, participants, & measure

One hundred sixty-five patients with class 5 lupus nephritis and varying numbers of control patients were included. Exostosin1/exostosin2 staining was performed by immunohistochemistry, and the staining intensity was quantified using an imaging analysis system. Between-group comparisons were tested for statistical significance using the Pearson chi-squared test, the Fisher exact test, the unpaired t test, the Mann–Whitney U test, or one-way ANOVA.

Results

In total, 46% of patients with class 5 lupus nephritis, 9% of patients with class 5 + 3/4 lupus nephritis, and none of the other classes of lupus nephritis were exostosin positive. Only three patients were exostosin positive among the 61 patients with other secondary membranous nephropathy. The exostosin-positive rate in nephrotic patients was significantly higher than that in patients without nephrotic syndrome (P<0.001), and the exostosin staining intensities of the patients with exostosin-positive class 5 were positively correlated with proteinuria (r=0.53; P<0.001). Compared with the patients with exostosin-negative cases, the patients with exostosin-positive cases had higher proteinuria levels (3.9 [interquartile range, 2.0–6.3] g/d versus 2.3 [interquartile range, 1.0–3.6] g/d; P<0.001); lower scores of activity index (1 [interquartile range, 1–2] versus 2 [interquartile range, 1–3]; P=0.001), chronicity index (1 [interquartile range, 0–2] versus 2 [interquartile range, 1–2]; P=0.02), and tubular atrophy score (0 [interquartile range, 0–1] versus 1 [interquartile range, 0–1]; P=0.008); a higher proportion of extensive subepithelial deposition (62% versus 27%; P<0.001); a similar treatment response; and comparable time to kidney end point. Among the 47 patients with class 5 who underwent repeat biopsy, 97% of those with exostosin-negative cases remained negative, whereas 44% of those with exostosin-positive cases were still positive. The rate of histologic transition in the patients with exostosin-negative class 5 was significantly higher than that in the patients with exostosin-positive class 5 (59% versus 22%; P=0.03).

Conclusions

Exostosin positivity occurred frequently in patients with class 5 lupus nephritis, and patients with exostosin-positive cases had more severe proteinuria and a lower rate of histologic transition than the exostosin-negative patients.
A SYSTEMIC REVIEW ON OCULAR DISEASE DUE TO VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: PATEL ABHIGNA , DAVE HIRAL
Published: May 2022

As the COVID-19 epidemic continues, when it comes to studying at home or working from home, there are no escape devices. They serve as an important link in human life and learning and the working environment. As with any useful tool, certain digital devices can sometimes be "very good." The COVID-19 epidemic has led to increased use of digital devices, which poses a greater risk of developing digital eye symptoms. Eye care professionals should educate patients about screen time limitations and digital eye signage management, leading to the challenge of annual visual programs. The effects of ocular surface health and circadian rhythm abnormalities associated with ocular disease such as computer vision syndrome, dry eyes, astigmatism, near vision, muscle mass etc. are increasing. In this covid epidemic 19 the widespread use of Herbal medicine and the use of Ayurvedic medicine increases when conventional medicine does not work in the treatment of diseases. Ayurveda is considered to be one of the best remedies for disease and lead to a healthy lifestyle in ancient India. Trataka treatments and head rubbing are also a good exercise for eye health. Oncological diseases ayurvedic remedies such as Haritaki, Malaki, Vibhitaki, Alovera are widely used. Triphala is a powerful Ayurvedic tonic containing three traditional fruits that have long been used to treat various health conditions of ocular disease. This is a traditional eye procedure and is very easy to keep the eyes healthy. Ginkgo biloba is used in traditional medicine recommended to enhance vision.
Agua que nace y muere. Sistemas normativos indígenas y disputas por el agua en Chamula y Zinacantán
Authors: Burguete Cal y Mayor Araceli
Published: May 2022

Este libro hace énfasis en que todo aún fluye. Como más zinacantecos y chamulas quieren usar el agua para irrigar, y como la Comisión Nacional del Agua trata de afirmar su derecho de controlar toda el agua de la nación, nuevos conflictos surgirán y, también nuevas soluciones. Pero, como en el libro se argumenta, esta situación no es nueva; Chiapas, por mucho tiempo, ha sido un lugar en el cual los grupos han recurrido a varios principios legales para soluciones a conflictos que cambian de tipo según cambios en los recursos económicos y políticos en la región. Así como las relaciones entre los grupos nunca fueron estáticas en el pasado, de la misma manera no hay razón para imaginar que lo serán en el futuro.
La gran serpiente cornuda. ¡Indios de Chiapa, no escuchen a Napoleón!
Authors: Laughlin Robert M.
Published: May 2022

Mientras los zapatistas se acercaban al pueblo, una serpiente gigante se elevó en el cielo y un rayo cayó. Huyeron a Chamula donde una serpienre gigante se elevó en el cielo y un rayo cayó, así que huyeron hacia San Andrés Larrdinzar, y ahí se encuentran actualmente. La traducción tzotzil del texto proporciona un vistazo a la manera en que una persona de habla española, probablemente un fraile, puso por escrito una llamada a la lealtad de los mayas. Acá, vemos un ejemplo de "efecto" político a principios del siglo XIX. Es interesante reconocer que durante el medio siglo anterior la política alrededor de la lengua española procurara combatir a las lenguas nativas y llevar a la población indígena de México hacia la corriente central de los de habla española. Los retos declarados, dentro de los principios liberales operativos de la economía política, habían sido "civilizar" a los hablantes de lenguas nativas y llevarlos a una sola nación ele habla española -como productores y consumidores. Era una visión de un progreso material que prometía en la tierra una vida enriquecida para todos. Este documento es un desvío marcado; recurrir al tzotzil seguramente respondía a la situación de emergencia debida a la insurgencia mexicana.
Evaluating the performance of a cellular manufacturing system proposal for the sewing department of a sportswear manufacturing company: A simulation approach
Authors: Cáceres-Gelvez Sebastian , Arango-Serna Martín Darío , Zapata-Cortés Julián Andrés
Published: May 2022

Cellular manufacturing systems (CMS) are a major application of group technology, that brings benefits related to the reduction of wastes, also known as ‘mudas’ in lean manufacturing philosophy, to organisations striving to compete on today’s markets. These benefits include the reduction of machine setup times, material handling and work-in-process inventory, among others. However, many organisations are reluctant to implement such decisions in their production systems, due to the uncertainty and economic and productive impact that these involve. For this reason, a simulation study is performed in this paper to evaluate the performance of a cellular manufacturing system approach for the sewing department of a sportswear manufacturing company. The simulation study was designed, and the results of the proposed model showed improvements of 51,46% in the average flow time, 1102,52% in the average throughput, and 50,65% in the average setup times of machines, compared to the current state of the case study.
Selective oxidation of ethanol into acetaldehyde catalyzed by novel Mg-Mo/MCM-41 mesoporous molecular meshes
Authors: Coha-Vesga Pablo Miguel , Rojas-Arias Nicolás , Valença Gustavo Paim
Published: May 2022

Molecular sieves of MCM-41 impregnated with MgO, MoO3, and Mo2C synthesized using a wet impregnation method. The compounds developed herein, were characterized by means of XRD, SEM-EDS and FT-IR techniques. The production capacity of acetaldehyde from ethanol was analyzed by catalytic processes employing as-synthesized MCM-41. The obtained results show that the changes in crystallinity of MCM-41 were due to the impregnation of oxides, which generate damage to the structure of MCM-41. However, the characteristics of the compounds are favorable, allowing them to be used as heterogeneous catalyst material due to the similarity of the characteristics between MCM-41 with and without of Mg and Mo oxides. The catalysis tests show the influence between the type of catalyst used and the temperature applied to the production process of acetaldehyde from ethanol, obtaining the best results in the samples impregnated with Mo2C at 250 °C, with a production percentage of acetaldehyde of 80.7% and 77.9% for the catalysts impregnated with 0.5% and 2.0% Mg and 3.0% Mo carbide, respectively.
Structural damage identification employing hybrid intelligence using artificial neural networks and vibration-based methods
Authors: Seyed Hakim Seyed Jamalaldin , Irwan Mohd Juki , Ibrahim Mohd Haziman  Wan , Ayop Sallehuddin Shah
Published: May 2022

The basis of vibration-based damage detection method is that when there are changes in physical properties of a structure, there will also be changes in vibration characteristics such as natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping ratios. Artificial neural network has become one of the most powerful approaches capable of pattern recognition, classification, and nonlinear modelling employing computational intelligence techniques to tackle damage detection as a complex problem. In this paper, ensemble neural networks based damage identification techniques were developed and applied for damage localization and severity identification in I-beam structures using dynamic parameters. Experimental modal analysis and numerical simulations of I-beam with triple-point damage cases were carried out to generate the natural frequencies and mode shapes of structures. In the procedure of damage identification, five different neural networks corresponding to mode 1 to mode 5 were constructed, and then an approach based on a neural network ensemble was proposed to combine the outcomes of the individual neural networks into a single network. The ensemble neural network has the superiorities of all the individual networks from different vibrational modes. The ensemble network produced better damage identification outcomes than the individual networks and the results revealed the ability of the ensemble neural networks to identify damage.
Orange II removal by a horseradish peroxidase immobilized onto chemically modified diatomites is a combination of adsorption and oxidation processes
Authors: Morales Urrea Diego Alberto , Haure Paricia Mónica , Contreras Edgardo Martín
Published: May 2022

In this work, a horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was immobilized onto diatomites by covalent bonding. Results indicated that the enzyme loading increased when diatomites were modified with (3-Aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) and glutaraldehyde. The immobilization was confirmed by SEM/EDX, XRD, DRIFT, and TGA analysis. Higher HRP concentrations of the immobilization solution and immobilization time had also a positive effect on the enzyme loading. Orange II (OII) adsorption onto diatomites and oxidative catalytic activity was evaluated. Results demonstrated that diatomites had a low OII adsorption capacity. However, under the presence of hydrogen peroxide, the dye removal was highly increased due to the catalytic activity of the immobilized HRP. A mathematical model that adequately describes the simultaneous adsorption and enzymatic oxidation of OII in batch tests was developed. Finally, immobilized diatomites were tested in the decolourization reaction of Orange II in a fixed-bed column reactor. Column results demonstrated that the immobilized HRP remained active for at least 12 h during three sequential OII removal tests.
Use of Boost Power Stage for Static Voltage Gain Improvement of a Non-isolated Continuous Input Current Three-Level DC-DC Converter
Authors: MURALI D.
Published: May 2022

The work presented in this paper describes the steady state analysis of a non-isolated and continuous conduction mode (CCM) operated three-level DC-DC converter with input boost power stage for achieving high static voltage gain. The proposed converter configuration is a double boost DC-DC conversion scheme. A boost power module consisting of a power switch, an inductor, a pre-charge diode, and a diode rectifier is introduced as the input stage in the conventional three-level DC-DC converter configuration to obtain the DC-DC converter topology suggested in this research work. The role of the input boost power stage is to extend the voltage gain of the conventional three-level boost converter. The proposed topology employs two power switches in addition to a boost power switch with simple control strategy so that the switching losses are reduced. The switches are subjected to low voltage and current stresses. The suggested non-isolated converter is operated under continuous inductor current mode in open loop configuration. The converter configuration has been simulated in MATLAB / SIMULINK platform. The input boost power stage receives a voltage of 24 V from a DC source. With low duty ratio (= 0.8) of the power switches, a DC voltage of around 208 V is obtained at the load end. The passive components of the converter are so designed that the filtering requirements on the DC output voltage and current waveforms are reduced. The voltage gain of the proposed converter is compared with that of the three-level boost converter without input boost power stage. The various modes of operation of the suggested converter are discussed with relevant equivalent circuits. The proposed system is validated using a developed hardware prototype model of 100 W converter with a low cost KA3525A PWM controller. Both simulation and prototype model results demonstrate that the proposed converter suits high voltage gain applications.
Online Examination System
Authors: Shukla Anshika , Binawade Vaishnavi
Published: May 2022

Abstract: Online Examination System is an on-line test simulator that allows you to take an online exam, test quickly, and without wasting time physically examining the test paper. The major goal of this web-based online assessment system is to completely evaluate students using a fully automated approach that not only saves time but also provides quick and accurate results. Students give papers at their leisure from any location using the internet and their time, with no requirement for supplementary items such as paper, pen, and so on. Students benefit from the online examination system since it allows them to take the test quickly and easily. It also delivers 100 percent accurate and secure results instantly after the test. Students can only enter to take an exam if they have a valid username and password. This test has multiple choice questions with a sufficient number of options. There are no restrictions on the amount of options available, and they can be randomized so that the same set of questions does not appear in front of all students, preventing manipulation. Although more than one option may be correct, the user can only choose one. This establishes a time limit.
Online Voting System
Authors: Mehta Miti
Published: May 2022

Abstract: The ‘Online Voting System’ is a web based voting platform for conducting elections online. This system seeks to use face recognition algorithm for voter identity authentication to enhance the security of the electioneering process and ultimately providing an online platform which enables all eligible voters to exercise this activity from any location. The user must sign in/login using their respective credentials and they will be logged in into the system only after the face recognition authentication is successful. Thereafter, the voter can cast their vote securely and logout of the system. Hence, this project based on Online Voting System could be used for conducting secure and fair elections online. Keywords: online voting, face detection, face recognition, authentication, django, tensorflow.js, deepface
La trastienda de Universum. Reflexiones y propuestas sobre su proceso de renovación museal
Authors: Pedersoli Constanza
Published: May 2022

“Repensar los museos y centros de ciencias” es un libro escrito a varias voces bajo la coordinación de María del Carmen Sánchez Mora. Su objetivo es dar cuenta de las decisiones que se van tomando en el proceso de rediseño del museo de ciencias Universum perteneciente a la Dirección General de Divulgación de las Ciencias de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México y que resultarán finalmente en su renovación.
PERFIL VERSUS SATISFAÇÃO DO FRANQUEADO: UMA ANÁLISE NO SUBSEGMENTO DE CALÇADOS
Authors: Rossoni Natalia , Sindelar Fernanda Cristina Wiebusch
Published: May 2022

O mercado de franquias tornou-se um tema amplo no ambiente empresarial. Atualmente, muitos empresários veem neste mercado uma estratégia para expansão da marca e do próprio negócio. Os franqueadores têm o papel importante de repassar todo o seu conhecimento e seu modelo de gestão da franquia, enquanto os franqueados devem seguir da melhor maneira possível o que lhes é repassado. Neste contexto, este trabalho buscou identificar o perfil do franqueado e sua satisfação com o negócio de franquias no subsegmento de calçados instalados no Rio Grande do Sul. Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa quali-quantitativa descritiva, utilizando um questionário junto a oito franqueados do setor. Os resultados indicaram que o perfil do franqueado interfere na satisfação do negócio. Cabe salientar que o relacionamento franqueado-franqueador é o fator mais relevante para explicar a satisfação com um negócio de franquia. Os respondentes ainda concordaram que a transferência de conhecimento e a capacidade absortiva da rede trazem vantagem competitiva e impactam a sustentabilidade e crescimento das franquias, enquanto as variáveis de venda/repasse de franquia devem receber atenção.
The existence and role of independent board members and their impact on the board’s effectiveness and firm’s value: The case of the emerging market
Authors: Alijoyo Antonius , Sirait Kevin Bastian
Published: May 2022

The implementation of good corporate governance (GCG) within a firm dictates its organizational behavior driven down by the board functionality effectiveness, among which the existence and role of an independent board member are taken into account. This study examines the effect of the existence and role of independent board members in Indonesia listed firm on the board’s functionality effectiveness, and subsequently, its impact on the value of the firm. Since Indonesia adopts a two-board system instead of a one-board system, the independent board member is known as an independent commissioner (IC) who sits on the company board of commissioners (BOC) which is equivalent to the company board of directors (BOD) in the one-board system. It is found through regression analysis that when an IC holds a powerful leadership position, it enhances the BOC’s functionality effectiveness. Likewise, if the IC has the position as the chair of BOC’s sub-committee in the company. The regression analysis was conducted in two periods, before the establishment of the Financial Services Authority (FSA) and after.
Ruptured aortic sinus aneurysm with left coronary artery aneurysm-right atrial fistula
Authors: Xiong Wei , Long Wei , Tang Li , Liu Jin , Song Haibo
Published: May 2022

A 50-year-old female presented with a history of fatigue after
activities. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a 2.8 cm dilatation at
the ostium of the left coronary artery and a 7.1×7.4 cm cyst-like
aneurysm at the upper back of the left atrium, interlinking an anomalous
fistula from the left coronary artery to the right atrial appendage,
accompanied by moderate mitral and tricuspid regurgitation. Cardiac
3D-computed tomography identified the diagnosis of ruptured aortic sinus
aneurysm (RASA) and a giant left coronary artery aneurysm fistula to the
right atrium. Transesophageal echocardiogram and surgical vision
confirmed these findings. Surgeries including RASA repair, coronary
artery bypass grafting, and mitral and tricuspid valvuloplasty were then
performed. Procedures proceeded successfully, the patient was fully
recovered and discharged home.
Site-specific and Tunable Co-immobilization of Proteins onto Magnetic Nanoparticles via Spy Chemistry
Authors: Wei Na , Ye Quanhui , Jin Xiuyu , Gao Haifeng
Published: May 2022

Co-immobilization of multiple proteins onto one nanosupport has large
potential in mimicking natural multiprotein complexes and constructing
efficient cascade biocatalytic systems. However, control of different
proteins regarding their spatial arrangement and loading ratio remains a
big challenge, and protein co-immobilization often requires the use of
purified proteins. Herein, built upon our recently designed
SpyTag-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNP), we established a
modular MNP platform for site-specific, tunable, and cost-effective
protein co-immobilization. SpyCatcher-fused enhanced green fluorescent
protein (i.e., EGFP-SpyCatcher) and mCherry red fluorescent protein
(i.e., RFP-SpyCatcher) were designed and conjugated on MNP, and the
immobilized proteins showed 3~7-fold enhancement in
storage stability and greatly improved stability against freeze-thaw
process compared to free proteins. The protein-conjugated MNP also
retained desirable colloidal stability and magnetic responsiveness,
enabling facile proteins recovery. Also, one-pot co-immobilization of
the two proteins could be fine-tuned with their feed ratios. In
addition, MNP could selectively and efficiently co-immobilize both
SpyCatcher-fused proteins from combined cell lysates without
purification, offering a convenient and cost-effective approach for
multiprotein immobilization. This MNP platform provides a facile and
efficient tool to construct bio-nano hybrid materials (i.e.,
protein-based MNP) and multienzyme systems for industrial and
biotechnological applications.
CONCEPT MAPS AS AN EFFECTIVE FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT TOOL IN BIOLOGY AT SECONDARY LEVEL
Authors: Choudhary Farkhunda
Published: May 2022

Concept mapping has been identified as an effective method that promotes critical thinking in students. The study was conducted to investigative the effectiveness of concept maps as formative assessment tool in Biology at secondary level. The main objective of the study was to investigate how effective concept maps are as an effective formative assessment tool in teaching and learning of concepts in Biology at secondary level. To guide the proposed study a null hypothesis was designed with an alternative hypothesis and tested at level of significance0.05. The research design opt to conduct the study was one group pre-test post-test quasi-experimental design. To complete the study seven weeks was utilized. The sample for this study consisted of students (n=46) of a private girl’s school in Karimabad District Hunza. Data for this study was collected by conducting Bioenergetics Diagnostic Test at each interval with and without intervention. The major findings of the study include; concept maps are important for developing clear understanding of concepts in Biology, concept maps refrains rote learning thus promotes critical thinking and reasoning ability and acts as an effective classroom instructional tool along with formative assessment tool. It was concluded that the concepts maps can be used as an effective formative assessment tool in Biology at secondary level.
Large-scale homogeneity in the distribution of quasars in the Hercules-Corona Borealis Great Wall region
Authors: Fujii Hirokazu
Published: May 2022

In light of recent debates on the existence of a gigaparsec-scale structure traced by gamma-ray bursts, namely the Hercules-Corona Borealis Great Wall (HCBGW), we revisit large-scale homogeneity in the spatial distribution of quasars. Our volume-limited sample of quasars in the redshift range 1:6 < z ?2:1, which is constructed from the data release 7 of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey quasar catalogue, covers about half of the suspected HCBGW region. We analyze the sample in two complementary ways: fractal analysis of determining the average scale of homogeneity and friends- of-friends analysis of identifying specific large-scale structures. The quasar distribution on average reaches homogeneity at rh = 136?38h-1 Mpc and the richness and comoving size frequencies of large (>?150h-1 Mpc) quasar groups are consistent with the prediction of homogeneous distribution. These results put constraints on the spatial extent of the HCBGW but do not contradict its existence since our quasar sample does not cover the entire HCBGW region.
Mercury and orbfit packages for numerical integration of planetary systems: implementation of the yarkovsky and yorp effects
Authors: Fenucci Marco , Novakovic Bojan
Published: May 2022

For studies of the long-term evolution of small Solar System objects, it is
fundamental to add the Yarkovsky and Yarkovsky-O'Keefe-Radzievskii-Paddack
(YORP) effects in the dynamical model. Still, implementations of these
effects in publicly available N-body codes is either lacking, or the effects
are implemented using significantly simplified models. In this paper, we
present an implementation of the coupled Yarkovsky/YORP effects in the
mercury and orbfit N-body codes. Along with these two effects, we also
included the effects of non-destructive collisions and rotationally induced
breakups to model the asteroid spin state properly. Given the stochastic
nature of many incorporated effects, the software is suitable for
statistical dynamical studies. Here we primarily explained the scientific
aspect of the implementation, while technical details will be made freely
available along with the source codes.
Some aspects of design ventilation system in road tunnels
Authors: Stasevic Miljan , Maksimovic Mirko , Vasovic-Maksimovic Ivana , Maksimovic Katarina , Stasevic Milenko
Published: May 2022

In the base, working of ventilation system can be analyzed in regular and incidental modes of operation. This paper concerns the specification of the longitudinal ventilation necessary to prevent upstream movement of combustion products in a tunnel fire. In this work the objective of the study is to analyze the road way tunnel ventilation system using CFD software to create comfort ventilation system in the tunnel. The comfort ventilation concept refers to the situation when air quality within the tunnel is reduced due to presence of polluted air in the tunnel. This paper is focused on ventilation system in a road traffic tunnel in moment of accident situation as fire. In this investigation numerical simulation of fire was carried out and determination of a critical air velocity depending on the power of the fire was conducted. The output results of the software developed for this purpose, which is also used in the realization of practical projects, are shown.
Influence of surface roughness and Wettability of novel surface on nucleate boiling performance in deionised water at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Thangavelu Nithyanandam , Duraisamy Senthil , Mohan Sridharan , Sundaresan Dinesh
Published: May 2022

Pool boiling is one of the very suitable techniques for an efficient thermal management system dealing with two-phases. The present work deals with the experimental exploration of critical heat flux for safety concern and heat transfer coefficient related to the performance point of view in nucleate boiling regime of pool boiling system. The copper substrate was coated with porous copper nanoparticles by sputtering technique to the thicknesses of 250 nm, 500 nm, and 750 nm. The surface characteristics of the copper nanocoated surfaces have been analysed as a result of wettability, surface roughness, and micro-structure. The contact angle goniometer, stylus profilometer, XRD, and SEM have been employed to analyze the surface structure. The maximum augmentation of critical heat flux was 59% for the thickness of 750 nm as compared to plain copper substrate. A 99% increase in the heat transfer coefficient was achieved for 750 nm thickness surface in comparison with the plain copper surface. The tremendous augmentation in critical heat flux and heat transfer coefficient was achieved due to wetting and rewetting properties of the deionized water on the copper nanocoated surfaces. The capillary action on the copper nanostructure improves the fluid supply to the test surface and removes the heat at low wall superheat than the plain copper surface. The average roughness of the copper nanocoated surface augments the heat transfer area which tends to enhance the performance factor significantly.
Influence of the building energy efficiency on indoor air temperature: The case of a typical school classroom in Serbia
Authors: Lazovic Ivan , Turanjanin Valentina , Vucicevic Biljana , Jovanovic Marina , Jovanovic Rastko
Published: May 2022

Greenhouse gases emission as well as total energy consumption in buildings of public importance, such as schools, municipal buildings, health care centers, can be significantly reduced by increasing buildings? energy efficiency. Buildings? energy consumption adds up to 37% of total energy consumption in the EU countries. In the Republic of Serbia this amount is significantly higher, about 50%. School buildings are considered as one of the most diverse structures from the point of energy-efficient design and construction. The main aim of this paper is to determine the most appropriate settings for possible improvements in energy efficiency and temperature comfort inside a typical primary school classroom in Serbia. The energy efficiency analysis was performed during the heating season for the naturally ventilated primary school classroom located in the eastern Serbia region. The analysis was performed using novel CFD model, suggested in this paper. The suggested model was used to solve two hypothetical scenarios. The first scenario simulates the temperature field in classroom with current energy characteristic envelope of the school building. The calculated numerical data from the first scenario were compared with in-situ measurements values of temperature and wall heat fluxes and showed satisfying accuracy. The second scenario was simulated to indicate possible improvements, which would allow energy consumption decrease and thermal quality enhancement. The analyzed results, calculated using the suggested numerical model under the second scenario conditions, showed that using appropriate set of measures, it is possible to obtain desired temperature comfort levels without need for increase in the building energy consumption.
Structural stress analysis of hybrid heat exchangers in the S-CO2 power cycle for marine waste heat recovery
Authors: Wang Jiawei , Sun Yuwei , Lu Mingjian , Wang Jian , Yan Xinping
Published: May 2022

Due to its high thermodynamic efficiency and small equipment size, the S-CO2 Brayton power cycle is a leading candidate for ship waste heat utilization. The hybrid heat exchanger formed by diffusion bonding of fins and etched plates can be used for heat exchange between the high temperature flue gas and the high pressure S-CO2. However, the law of structural strength is not clear for the hybrid heat exchanger. It is critical to carry out structural stress analysis. In this study, to assess the structural strength of the hybrid heat exchanger, the FEM was used and compared with a currently used method from ASME codes. The results show that the thermal stress caused by the temperature gradient is independent of the absolute temperature value. The change in the supercritical carbon pressure in the etched channel affects the mechanical stress more than the exhaust gas in the fin channel. Under design conditions, thermal stress and mechanical stress are equally important to the total stress of the hybrid heat exchanger. Moreover, the total stress is not a simple numerical superposition of thermal stress and mechanical stress but instead indicates a complex effect. From the FEM results, the etched channel exit that withstands a higher pressure load is the weakest point in the hybrid heat exchanger core. The FEM is a more comprehensive means for structural assessment than the ASME codes. This research can provide guidance for structural stress analysis of hybrid heat exchangers
A review on computational fluid dynamics simulation methods for different convective drying applications
Authors: Ozcan-Coban Seda , Selimefendigil Fatih , Oztop Hakan , Hepbasli Arif
Published: May 2022

This paper focuses on the CFD studies on one of the commonly used drying processes for different applications. First, a brief information about drying is given with determining important properties that effect drying characteristics. Next, basic principles of CFD modelling are explained while capabilities of computational processing are presented. A detailed literature survey about CFD studies in convective drying process is then conducted. Finally, some sound concluding remarks are listed. It may be concluded that the CFD is a powerful and flexible tool that can be adopted to many different physical situations including complex scenarios, results of CFD simulations represent good predictions for fluid-flow, heat and mass transfer of various drying methods and those numerical studies can be used for validation and controlling of applicability of new drying systems..
A Measure of Firm Complexity: Data and Code
Authors: Hoitash Rani , Hoitash Udi
Published: May 2022

We propose that firm complexity is best measured with accounting disclosures. Accounting is the “language of business,” and accounting disclosures of most business activities are mandated. Therefore, relying on accounting disclosures is the best approach for consistently capturing a wide range of firm activities for a large cross-section of firms. Measuring firm complexity is important for many applications in research and practice. However, firm complexity is multifaceted, making it difficult to measure. We review past research on complexity and motivate the use of Accounting Reporting Complexity (ARC), proposed by R. Hoitash and U. Hoitash (2018), to measure firm complexity. In so doing, we discuss the advantages of ARC over other measures. We then review studies that use ARC and provide a detailed description and code to construct ARC (and related measures) based on publicly available data. The complete ARC dataset is also available for download at: https://www.xbrlresearch.com/.

Data Availability: Data are publicly available from sources identified in the paper. ARC is based on XBRL filings downloaded directly from the Securities and Exchange Commission and is available for download at: https://www.xbrlresearch.com/.

JEL Classifications: B40; D20; C10; G10; L25; M40.
Orders Backlog in Earnings Conference Calls
Authors: Feldman Ronen , Govindaraj Suresh , Livnat Joshua , Suslava Kate
Published: May 2022

Focusing on quarterly earnings conference call transcripts, we provide evidence that order backlog discussions are positively priced by investors. Pricing appears to be efficient whether these discussions are accompanied by quantitative support or are solely qualitative. We find these disclosures to have stronger pricing effects for growth firms and firms with weaker information environments. Our study contributes to the body of order backlog research by incorporating more timely disclosures as well as by incorporating qualitative disclosures.

Data Availability: Data used in this study are available from public sources identified in the study.

JEL Classifications: G14; M41.
Plasma Adrenomedullin, Allelic Variations in the ADM Gene, and Risk for Lower-Limb Amputation in People With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Potier Louis , Mohammedi Kamel , Saulnier Pierre-Jean , Fumeron Frédéric , Halimi Jean-Michel , Venteclef Nicolas , Marre Michel , Hadjadj Samy , Roussel Ronan , Velho Gilberto
Published: May 2022

OBJECTIVE

Patients with diabetes have an increased risk for lower-limb amputation (LLA), but biomarkers to assess risk of LLA are lacking. Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a vasodilator peptide that also plays a role in fluid and electrolyte homeostasis in the kidney, increasing natriuresis and diuresis. ADM was shown to be associated with cardiovascular and renal events in diabetes, but it was not investigated in terms of LLA risk. We investigated the hypothesis that ADM is associated with LLA in people with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 4,375 participants in the DIABHYCAR and SURDIAGENE cohorts (men, 68%; mean 66 years of age; mean duration of diabetes 12 years; and median follow-up 5.3 years). Plasma midregional proadrenomedullin (MR-proADM; a surrogate for ADM) was measured by immunofluorescence. Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the ADM gene region were genotyped.

RESULTS

LLA requirement during follow-up by increasing tertiles of plasma MR-proADM distribution was 1.0% (tertile 1 [T1]), 2.3% (T2), and 4.4% (T3) (P < 0.0001). In Cox multivariate analysis, the adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI) for LLA was 4.40 (2.30–8.88) (P < 0.0001) for T3 versus T1. Moreover, MR-proADM significantly improved indices for risk stratification of LLA. Four SNPs were associated with plasma MR-proADM concentration at baseline and with LLA during follow-up. Alleles associated with higher MR-proADM were associated with increased LLA risk.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed associations of plasma MR-proADM with LLA and of ADM SNPs with plasma MR-proADM and with LLA in people with type 2 diabetes. This pattern of Mendelian randomization supports the causality of the association of ADM with LLA.
NaOCl Application after Acid Etching and Retention of Cervical Restorations: A 3-Year Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Favetti M , Schroeder T , Montagner AF , Moraes RR , Pereira-Cenci T , Cenci MS
Published: May 2022

This study evaluated the retention of composite resin restorations in noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) performed with or without pretreatment with 10% NaOCl solution (deproteinization). A randomized, controlled, split-mouth, double-blinded trial was carried out. Thirty patients with at least two NCCLs were included in the study. The NCCLs were randomly allocated into two treatment groups: control (acid etching with 37% phosphoric acid + placebo solution + Adper Single Bond 2/3M Oral Care + Filtek Z350/3M Oral Care) or experimental group (acid etching with 37% phosphoric acid + 10% NaOCl solution + Adper Single Bond 2 + Filtek Z350). A calibrated examiner evaluated the restorations at baseline (1 week) and recalls (6, 12, 24, and 36 months) using the FDI criteria. The primary outcome evaluated was retention of the restorations. Data were analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test (α=0.05). After 3 years, 64 restorations were evaluated in 23 patients. The annual failure rate was 9% for the control group and 17.8% for the experimental group (deproteinization technique). Considering the failures and their distribution among the characteristics of the patients and NCCLs, no statistically significant differences were observed for the control and experimental treatment groups (p=0.077) or the number of teeth in the mouth (p=0.320). Restorations in the mandible (p=0.039) and premolars (p=0.013) showed significantly lower clinical survival rates. The deproteinization pretreatment with a 10% NaOCl solution did not promote additional retention of restorations in NCCLs. (clinicaltrials. gov: NCT03086720)
Effect of laser radiation on the structural and optical properties of Makrolon/Pocan polymer blend
Authors: Barakat M. ME. , Bahareth Radiyah A. , Mahrous E. M. , Benthami K. , Nouh S. A.
Published: May 2022

Makrolon/Pocan is a polymer blend of polycarbonate that is amorphous in nature and is semicrystalline polybutylene terephthalate. Its trade name is Bayfol CR 4-2. It is used in a wide range of dosimetry. The authors believe that the current study is the first one that deals with the effect of laser irradiation on Bayfol CR 4-2. Samples of Bayfol films were treated with different laser fluences (3–30 J/cm2). The structural and optical characteristics of the Bayfol films were explored using x-ray diffraction and ultraviolet spectroscopy. The Urbach energy, refractive index, optical bandgap, optical dielectric constant, and dielectric loss were characterized and explained based on the laser fluence. The optical bandgap dropped from 3.04 to 2.65 eV for fluence of 30 J/cm2, associated with a rise in the Urbach energy. The authors attribute this to the increase of the amorphous phase inside the blend. Moreover, the color differences between the pristine and the irradiated films were calculated. The pristine Bayfol was uncolored. It exhibited noteworthy color changes during the laser treatment since the color difference attained a value larger than 5. This is well matching with the commercial reproduction on printing presses.
Uppföljningsmodell för öppen vetenskap och forskning - Principer och tillvägagångssätt
Authors: Samordningen av öppen vetenskap och forskning Avoimen tieteen koordinaatio
Published: May 2022

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Ecotourism and Rural Livelihood Nexus: An Assessment of the Wechiau Community Hippo Sanctuary Reserve
Authors: Mohammed Ali D. , Osumanu Kanton I.
Published: May 2022

Ecotourism has been envisaged not only as an alternative to mass tourism, but also as a livelihood diversification strategy for rural people. Researchers have presented mixed arguments regarding the relationship between Community Based Ecotourism Projects and rural livelihoods. This study therefore examined the link between rural livelihoods by conducting an in-depth assessment of the Wechiau Community Hippo Sanctuary Reserve. The research employed a cross sectional design with a mixed research approach. Questionnaires were used to collect data from 214 respondents in Kpanfa, Pellinkpari, Dochere, Dornye, Talawona and Tuole. Series of in-depth interviews were also carried out using interview guides and field observation. The study found that, the emergence of ecotourism in the area caused the emergence of some new livelihood activities while some traditional livelihood activities saw a decline while others were completely abandoned due to the enactment of some conservation bye- laws. Respondents were dissatisfied with the contribution of ecotourism livelihood activities to sustainable livelihoods coupled with unequal sharing and distribution of ecotourism benefits among sanctuary communities. The study recommended for more sustainable livelihood options to be developed by the Sanctuary Management Board to help improve the situation of the poor rural farmer on who’s livelihood ecotourism activities have a direct bearing and to also develop and implement a strategic policy framework to facilitate benefit sharing among catchment communities.
Communication Management of Parent Participation in Education Process: Practices of Communication between Teachers and Parents
Authors: Chatzinikola Maria
Published: May 2022

International education community considers the communication management of parents’ participation in education process as an important process, since it reinforces students’ learning performance, shapes their conduct and leads the school unit to an efficient form. This study focuses on views of primary education principals and teachers about the communication practices used in their communication with parents. Thirty-three principals and two hundred and twenty-two teachers consider it is important to invite parents to visit the school unit by setting a specific date and time. They consider it is equally important to keep them informed them by phone or email or by sending them informative notes. Moreover, primary education principals and teachers consider the first meeting between teachers and parents at school as very important. The basic goal of this meeting is to inform parents on time about the school’s mission and the learning course of the year. At this meeting, parents are informed that teachers and parents are considered co-responsible for the students’ learning progress. Principals and teachers list in a journal their meetings with parents, as well as children’s learning achievements or difficulties.
Quality Education: Critical Policy Considerations that Impact Teacher Retention in Schools
Authors: Ackah-Jnr Francis R. , Appiah John , Abedi Emmanuel A. , Opoku-Nkoom Isaac , Salaam Mohammed A.
Published: May 2022

Teachers are a critical factor in quality education. They contribute to the academic development and socialisation of students, and school improvement. Schools that attract and retain quality teachers can facilitate attainment of these broader educational goals. Teacher retention in education systems and schools entails the development of policies and practices to attract and retain high-quality teachers and leaders. It is not just about keeping teachers in schools, but also reducing attrition, especially among beginning teachers. If good teachers are to remain in the teaching profession and work best to support learners, they must have an endearing and supporting working environment that recognises and promotes their effort in multiple ways. In this paper, which employs a desk review research methodology, we review relevant research literature to identify key policy factors that affect teacher retention in schools and propose policy and practice recommendations that can minimise attrition in education systems, including special lessons for Ghana. Additionally, we define quality education and argue for increasing teacher retention and decreasing attrition.
Ethical Problems of Conducting Research and Building Peace in Conflict Environment: Example of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution in Nigeria
Authors: Babatunde Olalekan A.
Published: May 2022

The study examines the incessant cases of ethical challenges in research and peacebuilding in the Nigeria’s conflict environment. Due to rampant corruption and lack of specific national ethical framework, and regulatory committee and resources that have affected societal values and culture of ethics and integrity, peace and conflict researchers and practitioners are prone to unethical conducts. Some are committed knowingly and unknowingly. This aspect of professional life has not been closely scrutinized, let alone proffers suggestions to. Perhaps, ethics frameworks and administrations are just beginning to be mainstreamed into development work in most part of the world. Therefore, drawing qualitative data from a wide range of personal, career and desk top sources from the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, which is the government’s apex agency saddled with the responsibility of investigating causes and dynamics of conflict, and advising decision makers on best policy alternatives, build peace and engage in advocacy, the study identifies numerous ethical problems that include copy and paste, manipulations of data, unhealthy competition/rivalry among researchers and peacebuilding practitioners working in the conflict field. The research uncovers approaches the institute adopted to ameliorate the problems and promote ethical standards among its research and peacebuilding teams that included trainings and constant reminders of the need to protect the integrity of individuals in the team and the Institute as well as the need to project a good image for the country. The inability to re-think ethical regime and legal norms in the country could fuel violent conflict and terrorism, and militate against the goals of conflict management in the country that is seriously desirous of peace and security.