bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The COVID-19 pandemic: the challenge of managing it as a crisis and harnessing it as a chance for sustainable mobility and transport
Authors: Genitsaris Evangelos , Nalmpantis Dimitrios , Amprasi Vasiliki , Naniopoulos Aristotelis
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic comprises a “milestone” for multiple aspects of social, economic, and technological life. Trips and movements were placed at the center of attention to control the virus’ transmission since the diffusion may occur both during the trip, while people are on-board, and after they arrive at the final destination, in the context of their activities. Public Transport Authorities (PTA), providers of mobility services, and commuters have faced various challenges that require from them a change or adaptation of their practices and behavior. In the framework of the European project “PE4Trans”, which concerns citizens’ engagement in the planning of sustainable mobility policies, a multidisciplinary three-session virtual event took place. Its aim was to address all challenges posed by the pandemic related to mobility and transport by involving researchers, executive officers, decision-makers, and policymakers in an organized dialogue. This paper systematizes and synthesizes the findings of this discussion, covering aspects related to the nature of the pandemic, the measures of personal protection along the whole mobility chain, the structural business changes for the case of mobility providers, the exploitation of technology, the people with disability, and the role of the local authorities. The pandemic reveals itself as a two-sided coin: its first side is related to the public health crisis that needs proper handling within the transport system, while its second side is related to the chance of accelerating the transition towards sustainable mobility and the opportunity of promoting reforms within the transport business sector.
Speed limits and accident rates on highways around the world, is there a correlation?
Authors: Papageorgiou G , Kaltsidis D , Nako O , Paschalis E. , Alamanis N , Chrysanidis T
Published: November 2021

The objective of this study stands for the investigation and evaluation of accidents that take place on highways, in comparison with speed limits. The main body of this research is based on the collection of highways speed limits from different countries around the globe regarding to years, 2010, 2017 and 2018. Secondly, accident rates are collected from highway authorities, as well as from international literature. Subsequently, a statistical analysis of the collected data is conducted and finally leads to an equation that links and correlates the speed limit values and the number of accidents. The results of this statistical analysis show that speed limit plays a certain and distinctive role in the accident rate value. However, one of the interesting findings, stands for the non-continuously increasing number of accidents in the speed limit range, from the lowest to the highest value, meaning that there is an inflection point in the graph of the correlation equation. To be noted, that in terms of this study, the aforementioned correlation is independent of other factors that could affect the accident rate, such as vehicles condition, technology, road network length and condition.
Transportation habits and opinions of railway users in Athens, Greece
Authors: Chira Georgia , Kaika Dimitra , Kehagia Fotini , Drimili Efi , Gareiou Zoe , Vatikiotis Leonidas , Zervas Efthimios
Published: November 2021

The Greek economic crisis of 2009 onwards has affected all aspects of social and economic life of the country, including transportation. Taking into account the link between the economic crisis and transportation, the present study aims to investigate the way that the economic crisis has affected the interurban travel rail habits of the citizens of Athens, the capital of Greece. We conducted a study, using a questionnaire survey with 400 participants, to investigate the general trends concerning the purpose and the frequency of railway travelling and the restrictions of their travel activities due to the economic recession. The results of this study show that more than half of respondents declared that there is not any great difference in their use of rail as transport during last years, while they express a positive opinion as they attribute it to the higher safety and comfort of railway compared to other transportation modes. However, the cost of the ticket and the provided level of service are two significant factors for the participants for the choice of their transportation mode.
Drought tolerance test of various potential local rice genotypes in Aceh West-South Region at vegetative stages
Authors: Hadianto Wira , Junita Dewi , Muslimah Yuliatul , Ariska Nana , Lizmah Sumeinika Fitria , Agustinur  , Arifin Usman
Published: November 2021

Aceh has a lot of local rice genotypes that locally cultivated in West- South Region Aceh. The potential of local rice as a source of genes have not been evaluated and identified of drought tolerance. Abiotic stresses such as drought are serious things that affected plant productivity. This study aimed to determine the drought tolerance of several potential local rice genotypes in South-West Region Aceh as parents (P1) in order to become the basic population in creating the new high yielding varieties that were resistant to drought. This study was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RDB) with 3 replications. The observed variables were: Plant height and Number of tiller per clumps at 10, 20, 30 and 40 days after planting, root length, number of roots, wet and dry weight of roots at days 40 after planting. The study found that the treatment of drought stress significantly affect the plant height and number of tillers, best result was found at rangan lango genotype. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that there are 3 genotypes of local West-South Aceh region that are potentially resistant to drought stress in the vegetative Stage, namely the Lango genotype, Arias genotype and Pade Manggeng genotype.
Polymorphism parental survey in three Indonesia improved varieties to support development of new submergence tolerant varieties
Authors: Hidayatun Nurul , Nafisah  , Utami Dwinita Wikan
Published: November 2021

Submergence by flooding caused damage in rice growing areas and huge economic loss, and developing tolerant varieties is considered as the best approach to overcome the problem. Markers Assisted Backcrossing (MABC) approach is widely to develop Sub-1 tolerant varieties. The availability of polymorphic markers is among the most crucial requirement to implement the MABC method. This research was subjected to assess DNA polymorphism between IR64Sub1 and tree Indonesian popular varieties. A total of 136 microsatellites/simple sequence repeat markers were used to genotype tree Indonesian popular varieties; Cisantana, Angke and Mekongga and IR64-Sub1. A total of 39 markers covering 11 chromosomes were found polymorphic between IR64 Sub-1 and the three varieties, however no polymorphic markers found in chromosome 12. The lack polymorphic markers were also found in chromosome 10 and 11 between IR64 Sub 1 and Angke. With the completion of the missing markers, these 39 polymorphic SSR markers can be utilized to support the MABC program for the development of new Sub-1 tolerant variety with multiple tolerances.
Identification and grouping of pod shattering resistance and agronomic characters performance from several soybean advanced lines
Authors: Krisnawati A. , Adie M.M.
Published: November 2021

The use of pod-shatter resistant variety is considered effective in reducing yield loss in soybeans. This study aimed to identify and grouping of pod shattering resistance and agronomic characters performance from several advanced soybean lines. The field experiment was conducted in Blitar (Indonesia) from January to April 2021, using 20 soybean advanced lines and two check cultivars. The laboratory study to identify the pod shattering resistance based on the oven-dry method was conducted in the Breeding Laboratory of ILETRI, Malang. The pod shattering resistance of 20 advanced lines was classified into five very resistant genotypes, three resistant genotypes, two moderate genotypes, nine susceptible genotypes, and a very susceptible genotype. The pod shattering resistance has a significant negative correlation with the pod width (r = -0.472*). A wider pod resulted in a low percentage of shattering. The agronomic performance varied among all genotypes. Selection for pod shattering resistance and agronomic performance obtained two lines (G511H/Anjas//Anjas///Anjas-3-1 and Dega/Degra-2-105) as high yielding and very resistant to pod shattering. Those lines were suggested to be tested across diverse environments to determine their yield potential and stability.
The effect of biochar application and number of shoots on the growth of ratoon sorghum in vertisol soil
Authors: Mercyana Vidi , Samanhudi  , Harsono Puji
Published: November 2021

Sorghum(Sorghum bicolor(L.)) is one of the potential commodities that can be developed to support food and energy diversification programs in Indonesia. It has the advantage that one of them can be ratoon. However, the yield of ratoon is lower than that of the main crop. The research on ratoon sorghum was carried out in vertisol soil. This aims of the study to determine the interaction between biochar application and number of shoots on the growth of ratoon sorghum in vertisol soil, to obtain the right dose of biochar and to get the appropriate number of shoots to increase the yield of ratoon sorghum. The study was arranged in a factorial manner using a Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD). The treatment factors were biochar (without biochar, 2.5 tons/ha, 5 tons/ha and 7.5 tons/ha), and the number of shoots (1 shoot, 2 shoots, 3 shoots, and 4 shoots) at the 5% level. The results showed that there was no interaction between biochar treatment and the number of shoots on the variable of panicle sorghum, weight of fresh stover, and weight of dry stover. The results showed an interaction on the variable of plants height observation. Provides growth results that are not significantly different in the parameters of plant height, panicle length and panicle weight. Gives significantly different results on panicle length, weight of fresh stover, and weight of dry stover. The number of 1 shoots produced the highest growth for all observed variables.
The effectiveness of technology packages of 15 biofertilizer formulas to increase soybean productivity on acidic soils
Authors: Harsono A , Sucahyono D , Pratiwi E , Sarjia A , Pratiwi H , Andreas D , Simarmata T
Published: November 2021

The potentcy of acidic soils for soybean development in Indonesia is quite large. However low of soil fertility and microorganisms population become contrains for achieving high productifity of soybean. The aim of this research is to determine the effectiveness of technology packages for 15 biofertilizers formula to increase soybean productivity in acidic soils. The research was conducted during the end of rainy season in South Kalimantan. The soil use in the study had pH 5.2 and soil Al-saturation 34.2%. The reasearch was arranged in a randomized block design, three replications consisted of 20 treatmens, namely: 1) 0 NPK, 2) 50% NPK, 3) 50% NPK +2 t/ha organic fertilizer 4) 70% NPK, 5) 100% NPK (100 kg urea + 100 kg SP36 + 100 kg KCl/ha), 6) Iletrisoy+ Biovam+Starmix, 7) Iletrosoy Plus, 8) Beyonic, 9 Biotrico, 10) Probio New, 11) RhizoBIOST, 12) Bio-SRF, 13) Biopim, 14) BioMIGE, 15) Biocoat, 16) FajarSOYA, 17) Rhizobion, 18) Agrizone, 19) Rhizoplus, and 20) BISRF. For each biological fertilizer, 50-75% of recommended NPK fertilizers were given at 15 days after planting. The results indicated that combination of Biovam + Iletrisoy + Startmix biofertilizers, Iletrisoy plus, Biotricho, Probio New, Bio Mige, and Fajar SOYA were effective for increasing soybean productivity on acidic soils. These biological fertilizers + 50% recommended NPK + 1.5 t/ha organic fertilizer increases pods number, and soybean productivity more than 10% compared to the recommended NPK fertilizer dosage whic was 1.81 t/ha. Several of these biological fertilizers have good prospects to be developed as bio-fertilizers for soybeans in acidic soils.
The effect of NPK 15-15-6-4 compound fertilizer on corn growth and yield
Authors: Sudding Andi Faisal , Maintang  , Asri Muh , Rauf Abdul Wahid , Syam Amiruddin , Adriani W A.
Published: November 2021

The availability of NPK compound fertilizer is expected to help farmers to optimally supply the nutrient needs of corn plants. The aim of the study was to determine the efficient dose of NPK 15-15-6-4 fertilizer and its combination with urea on the growth and yield of corn. The study was conducted in Simbang Village, Simbang District, Maros Regency, South Sulawesi in January - April 2019. The study used a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with a combination of 7 treatments with four replications, consisting of: (P1) 400 kg NPK 15-15-6-4; (P2) 400 kg NPK 15-15-6-4 + 100 kg urea; (P3) 400 kg NPK 15-15-6-4 + 150 kg urea; (P4) 450 kg NPK 15-15-6-4; (P5) 350 kg NPK 15-15-6-4; (P6) 350 kg NPK 15- 15-6-4+ 150 kg urea; (P7) 150 kg NPK Phonska + 250 kg urea. The results showed that NPK 15-15-6-4 compound fertilizer had a good effect on the growth and yield of corn plants. NPK 15-15-6-4 compound fertilizer at a dose of 450 kg/ha and a dose of 400 kg NPK 15-15-6-4 + 100 kg urea gave the best effect with total yield up to 5.5-5.9 ton/ha.
Effectiveness of solid organic fertilizer (SOF) on lowland rice in Maros, South Sulawesi
Authors: Asri Muhammad , Idaryani  , Sahardi
Published: November 2021

Rice is one of the most important staple cereal foods and major food for more than a third of the world’s population. The use of organic fertilizers is needed to improve soil quality and increase crop production. The research objective was to determine the effectiveness of solid organic fertilizer (SOF) on the growth and production of lowland rice. This research was conducted in Lau District, Maros Regency, South Sulawesi, from October 2019-February 2020. Field experiments were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 8 treatments and repeated four times. The treatments studied were A=without fertilizer; B=NPK 100%; C=NPK 75%; D=NPK 100%+SOF 50%; E=NPK 75%+SOF 100%; F=NPK 75%+SOF 150%; G=NPK 100%+SOF75%; and H=NPK 100%+SOF 100%. The parameters observed were plant height at harvest time, number of productive tillers, number of panicles, number of filled grains, number of empty grains, the weight of 1,000 grains, and yield of GKP. The results obtained indicate that the treatment of F = NPK 75% + SOF 150% gives the highest yield namely 5,03 t ha−1, with RAE 200%, profit Rp. 10.226.100, and R/C ratio 2,03
The economic feasibility of hybrid corn farming on sub optimal dry land in Aceh
Authors: Andriani Rini , Ferayanti Fenty , Idawanni  , Elviwirda
Published: November 2021

This study aims to determine the level of economic feasibility of corn farming in dry land through the application of technological innovations using hybrid corn New High- Yielding varieties seeds. This research used a randomized design and was conducted on 1 hectare of land owned by farmers in Blang Gandai Village, Jeumpa District, Bireun, from April to October 2016. The data collection method was a survey qualitative and quantitative. The qualitative is the characteristics of the research location and an explanation of the hybrid corn varieties. While the quantitative is the analysis data of hybrid corn farming that has been calculated. Sources of data were obtained from information directly from farmers as many as 6 cooperators, were 3 farmers with an introduction practice and 3 farmers with farmers practice. The varieties used were Bima 3 dan Bima 4. Data were collected by interview using a questionnaire with a structured list of questions. The farming data analysis carried out includes the use of production facilities, the use of labor, and the level of efficiency of farming with financial analysis of the R/C ratio. The analysis used is revenue and income, income-to-cost balance (R/C) and income balance cost B/C. The results showed that economically both Bima 3 and Bima 4 varieties provide favorable results where the R/C of both is 1,82. This means that Bima 3 and Bima 4 varieties are very feasible to be developed to increase corn production in Bireun Districts on dry land.
Farmer response and financial feasibility of corn seed production in Southeast Sulawesi
Authors: Sugiman Sri Bananiek , Mustaha Muh. Alwi , Agussalim
Published: November 2021

To support the growth and development of corn in Southeast Sulawesi, information of farmer response and financial feasibility of corn seed production in South East Sulawesi are needed. The paper aims to determine farmers’ response and financial feasibility of corn seed production in Southeast Sulawesi, The results of this study are expected to be input for local governments in developing community-based seed breeders and can be useful for corn seedling businesses. The study was conducted in marc 2017 in Pangan Jaya Village, Lainea District, Konawe Selatan Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province. The study was carried out by involving 20 farmers, 10 people for the production of corn seed production technology and 10 non-cooperator farmers who carried out according to the patterns and habits of farmers (feed corn production).. The data collected consists of (1) corn seed production data based on the results of corn seed reall production (2) farmer and non-breeder farm input data, consisting of expenditures for the purchase of production facilities and labor costs. The results of research were (1) Farmers’ response obtained, 83% of farmers gave a good perception of the breeding business of corn seeds. it means that corn breeding business is very likely to be cultivated and developed further. (2) Corn seed production business in Southeast Sulawesi is financially profitable and feasible to be developed with a B/C value of 2.15 and MBCR 4.4. These results indicate that the corn seed production business has good development prospects In order to support the continuous supply and fulfill of the need for quality corn seeds in Southeast Sulawesi, it is necessary to develop breeding of corn seeds, especially in areas of corn development centers. Market support is very much needed for the marketing of seed production. Market certainty will provide opportunities for the growth of new breeders, and will ensure the sustainability of corn seed breeding business at the farm level.
Farmers’ preferences for composite corn in dry land area of Central Sulawesi
Authors: Rahayu Heni SP , Juradi Afif , Asnidar  , Gafur Syamsyiah
Published: November 2021

The success of a product is whether the product or technology is accepted by the user/consumer. To bridge the gap between breeders and farmers and to ensure that new varieties satisfy farmers’ preferences and suitable to the its socioeconomic situations, a study of farmers’ preference is needed. Therefore the study aims to know the preference and the feasibility of the composite corn in Central Sulawesi. The introduction composite corn consist of Srikandi Kuning, Lamuru, Sukmaraga, and Anoman which were applied in Kaji Terap Program. A survey had been conducted to users in Parigi Moutong and Sigi District Central Sulawesi, and a quantitative and descriptive analysis approach were employed in this study. Proportion analysis was used to measure the general perferences of farmers as user while the detail perception was calculated using scoring method. The findings show that more than 50% users in dry land have high preference to composite corn for some characteristics namely: productivity, drought, diseases resistant, grain color, market preferences, and number of corncob. Anoman which has high productivity but has lower preference because of its color does not suit with the market’ preference.
Multi-criterial analysis for modelling Matengo/Ngolo pits agro-ecological zones using fuzzy logic in Southern Tanzania
Authors: Nakamo S J
Published: November 2021

It has known that grain production is declining globally, leading to food insecurity becoming increasingly apparent in tropical countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa must concentrate on indigenous agricultural methods to mitigate the impact of climate change on grain production while preserving ecological balances and achieving sustainable goals. Matengo/Ngolo pits, practised on steep slopes in the Matengo highlands, southern Tanzania, are indigenous knowledge invented by local communities over the past 300 years. Despite its effectiveness in increasing agricultural productivity, soil moisture retention, and other environmental advantages, Matengo/Ngolo agricultural technique has resulted in severe land cover changes that substantially influence other producing sectors. Understanding the agro-ecological zones is essential for enhancing policy development for the expansion and restrictive of Matengo/Ngolo pits practice that intercepting by decreasing its influence on the shrinkage of other ecological services, achieving sustainable agricultural practice in the Matengo highlands. Therefore, this study employed the multi-criteria parameters under the fuzzy logic algorithm in ArcGIS 10.8 for modelling the Matengo/Ngolo pits agro-ecological zone to realize sustainable land management in Matengo highlands.
Roles of local farmers’ organization in supporting food security: case of Subak in Bali, indonesia
Authors: Sedana Gede , Yastini Ni Nengah , Maulina Ni Made Intan
Published: November 2021

In Indonesia, agricultural development plays a significant role in economic development. The management of rice farming in Bali is closely related to the social, cultural and religious aspects of the community, especially in the management of irrigation. These traditional values with local wisdom are applied bysubakas a farmer organization that has a role in realizing agricultural development goals, such as food security. This study aims to determine the role ofsubakin achieving and sustaining food security, particularly rice. This research was conducted in twosubaksin Gianyar Regency, Bali. Respondents who were interviewed were allsubakadministrators (chairman, deputy chairman, secretary, treasurer, general assistant, and head ofsub-subak,calledtempek.A total of 40 farmers were sampled (20 farmers within eachsubak)who were selected using non-proportional random sampling technique. Data were collected using interview guidelines and questionnaires through interviews/surveys, observations and documentation. Data were fully analyzed using descriptive methods. The results showed thatsubakhad several roles in increasing farmers’ productivity and income. These include (i) managing the distribution and allocation of irrigation water; (ii) regulating cropping patterns and annual cropping schedules; (iii) mobilizing resources for irrigation, agriculture, social and culture, and ritual ceremony; (iv) managing subak finances/cash; (v) carrying out economic activities; and (vi) implementing government programs related to agricultural development.
Green hydrogen economy and opportunities for India
Authors: Sontakke Ujwal , Jaju Santosh
Published: November 2021

With increasing numbers of vehicles on roads, India is facing the issue of large vehicular emissions. The burning of crude oil is the major issue behind these emissions. India doesn’t have enough resources to fulfill all the energy demands of vehicles and hence, imports crude oil from oil-rich countries. To tackle the issues associated with oil imports and vehicular emissions, there is a need to search for carbon-free alternate fuel that is available locally in sufficient quantity to meet India’s energy demands. The green economy is a new concept evolving and gaining attention worldwide, the concept focuses on sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. Hydrogen is such a carbon-free fuel that can help to achieve the targets of the green economy and the best means to store energy for a long time. Hydrogen is a high energy content fuel and has about zero greenhouse gas emissions when used in fuel cells. Hydrogen is not directly available in free form, but it can be produced using electrolyzers and various other techniques. India’s continuously growing renewable power generation capacity gives the advantage to produce hydrogen from green sources like solar, and wind at the time of lower demand. The present review work focuses on the opportunities for India in green hydrogen production as the adaption of green hydrogen offers many benefits to India including energy security, and decarbonizing the transport sector.
Simulation-based Study of Graphene-water Nanofluid flow through Microchannel Heatsink
Authors: Bhattacharya Ritwik , Samanta Pranab
Published: November 2021

This study presents a CFD analysis of the laminar flow of graphene-water nanofluid through a Silicon microchannel heatsink using commercial software ANSYS FLUENT. The microchannel has a rectangular cross-section of given dimensions, and the base of the heatsink is subjected to a constant heat flux. Simulations of the coolant flow are performed at different fluid inlet velocities for nanoparticle concentrations of 0%, 3% and 6% in the base fluid-Water. Results for temperature and pressure distributions in the microchannel heatsink are presented. The cooling performance of the MCHS improves significantly by increasing the flow velocity and enhancing the nanoparticle concentration in the coolant.
Design and Analysis of Release Mechanism using Shape Memory Alloy for Spacecraft
Authors: Dahake Shrutika , Awate Nilesh , Shelke Rupesh
Published: November 2021

Shape memory alloy (SMA) is used as a smart material. It is also called as Nitinol and intelligent material because it regains their original shape after deformation. It works on the principle of shape memory effect which regain their original shape after passing through different temperature phases. SMA get some more attention in incoming years due to their superior and unique properties. This paper presents design and maximum stress analysis of release mechanism using SMA. It also covers the capability and efficiency of notch bolt of Frangibolt mechanism. Its design, calculation and analysis has done in CAD software and simulation software.
Aerodynamic analysis of aircraft model using indigenously developed wind tunnel facility
Authors: Makhija D , Jain S V , Achari A M , Ghosh K
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a design of force balance setup that can measure lift force acting on the aircraft model. The setup was developed indigenously and installed in an open circuit low-speed wind tunnel. It mainly consists of two components viz. a traverse mechanism that can hold the model in the test section at different angles of attack and air speeds and a supporting frame to hold the traverse mechanism over it. The spring balances are used to obtain lift force readings at different angles and air speeds. The experimental and numerical investigations were done in the wide range of Reynolds number (range: 0.55 to 1.12 lakh) and angle of attack (range: -6° to 20°). The results are presented in terms of pressure contours, velocity contours, pressure coefficient and lift coefficient. From the experiments it was found that value of lift coefficient increases with angle of attack and stalling occurs at 18° for all the air speeds. However, in the numerical results the stalling was observed little earlier than 18° angle of attack. The experimental results were compared with CFD results and an average relative error of 18% was observed which may be due to assumption of 2-D airfoil in CFD analysis.
Design and analysis of smoke flow visualization apparatus for wind tunnel
Authors: Raval D , Jain S V , Acharii A M , Ghosh K
Published: November 2021

In the present study, the design and analysis of smoke generator are done for the low-speed wind tunnel. The wind tunnel fan is fitted with the Variable Frequency Drive to produce the wind speed in the range of 3 to 32 m/s with fan speed of 150 to 1500 rpm. The design of smoke generator was done according to Preston Sweeting mist generator principle corresponding to the free stream velocity of 3 m/s. A controlled smoke generator consisting of kerosene reservoir, controlled heater, blower, liquid column height adjustment mechanism, valves etc. was designed and fabricated. The smoke generator produced the smoke at the rate of 154 cm3/s which was close to the design flow rate of 149 cm3/s. To supply the required quantity of smoke in the wind tunnel, the smoke rake of NACA 0010 profile was developed and installed in the rapid contraction section of the wind tunnel to achieve the streamlined flow. The parametric studies were done on the smoke generator at different power inputs and its effects were studied on smoke temperature, smoke discharge and boiling time of the kerosene. The flow visualization was carried out on NACA 0015 airfoil model and the images were captured to examine the flow physics around them under different operating conditions.
Free vibration analysis on axially graded beam resting on variable Pasternak foundation
Authors: Kumar Saurabh
Published: November 2021

Free vibration analysis is conducted on axially functionally graded Euler-Bernoulli beam resting on variable Pasternak foundation. The material properties of the beam and the stiffness of the foundation are considered to be varying linearly along the axial direction. Two types of boundary conditions namely; clamped and simply supported are used in the analysis. The problem is formulated using Rayleigh-Ritz method and governing equations are derived with the help of Hamilton’s principle. The numerical results are generated for different material gradation parameter, foundation parameter and boundary conditions and the effect of these parameters on the free vibration behaviour of the beam is discussed.
Numerical Simulation and Parametric Analysis of Fatigue Crack in UIC60 Rail Thermite Welded Joint
Authors: Sen Prakash Kumar , Bhiwapurkar Mahesh , Harsha S P
Published: November 2021

The mechanism of rail-wheel contact is the most essential field of study in railway engineering since it requires extensive application expertise, diagnostic skills, and a trustworthy analysis technique. In this research the fatigue life of a UIC60 rail AT weld under vertical load and its parametric effect has been studied, and for that a three-dimensional elastic-plastic finite element model is created using ANSYS space-claim software, and then finite element method is employed to analyse the full-scale model of wheel-track and weld system with realistic three-dimensional solution. Model assembly components include axle, wheel, and thermite-welded rail. Simulation of contact between wheel and UIC60 rail weld with crack on weld at angles of 30 and 60 degrees with different coefficients of friction between the weld wheel contact and between crack surfaces was carried out under vertical loadings. In general, the Hertz contact theory assumptions are taken into consideration throughout the analysis, and the impacts on fatigue life are given by using damage mechanics method. The results of the wheel/weld fatigue crack analysis have been displayed to demonstrate the influence of different parameters on the fatigue life of cracks. The purpose of this study is to identify and safeguard the rail against failure, as well as to ensure the safety of passengers and to reduce the cost of maintaining the rail system.
On the limits of quasi-static theory in plasmonic nanostructures
Authors: Crotti Giulia , Schirato Andrea , Proietti Zaccaria Remo , Della Valle Giuseppe
Published: November 2021

The approximated analytical approach of quasi-static theory (QST) is widely used in modelling the optical response of plasmonic nanoparticles. It is well known that its accuracy is remarkable provided that the particle is much smaller than the wavelength of the interacting radiation and that the field induced inside the structure is approximately uniform. Here, we investigate the limits of QST range of validity for gold nanostructures freestanding in air. First, we compare QST predictions of scattering spectra of nanospheres and cylindrical nanowires of various sizes with the exact results provided by Mie scattering theory. We observe a non-monotonic behaviour of the error of QST as a function of the characteristic length of the nanostructures, revealing a non-trivial scaling of its accuracy with the scatterer size. Second, we study nanowires with elliptical section upon different excitation conditions by performing finite element numerical analysis. Comparing simulation results with QST estimates of the extinction cross-section, we find that QST accuracy is strongly dependent on the excitation conditions, yielding good results even if the field is highly inhomogeneous inside the structure.
Dominant acceptors in Li doped, magnetron deposited Cu2O films
Authors: Nyborg M , Karlsen K , Bergum K , Monakhov E
Published: November 2021

Cu2O films deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering with varying Li concentrations have been investigated by a combination of temperature-dependent Hall effect measurement and thermal admittance spectroscopy. As measured by secondary ion mass spectrometry, Li concentrations up to 5 × 1020 Li/cm3 have been achieved. Li doping significantly alters the electrical properties of Cu2O and increases hole concentration at room temperature for higher Li concentrations. Moreover, the apparent activation energy for the dominant acceptors decreases from around 0.2 eV for undoped or lightly doped Cu2O down to as low as 0.05 eV for higher Li concentrations.
Polymer assisted colloidal nanocrystal framework synthesis: sol-gel approach
Authors: Abebe Buzuayehu
Published: November 2021

The porous colloidal nanocrystal framework material was synthesized by sol-gel assembly followed by a self-propagation procedure. The characteristics of the synthesized nanocrystal were confirmed by advanced instruments. From the DTG analysis, the poly (vinyl alcohol) was completely degraded at 400 °C. The XRD pattern and TEM image confirmed the nanoscale crystallite size of the material. BET and SEM analysis showed the mesoporous type pore size distribution. The predictable compositional analysis was confirmed from EDX, SAED, and XPS compositional analysis. Using the HSAB theory and HRTEM image analysis the formation of local heterojunction between metal oxides was approved.
A preliminary study on cellulose acetate composite membranes: effect of nanoparticles types in their preparation and application
Authors: Boughdiri Aouatef , Ounifi Ibtissem , Chemingui Hajer , Ursino Claudia , Gordano Amalia , Zouaghi Mohamed Oussema , Hafiane Amor , Figoli Alberto , Ferjani Ezzedine
Published: November 2021

This work reported a new perspective on improving the incorporation of nanoparticles(NPs) into membranes for several applications. Composite membranes were produced via the phase inversion method using cellulose acetate (CA) as the polymer, mixed with four different NPs: ZnO and Fe3O4 NPs were prepared by the co-precipitation method, while SiO2 and TiO2 NPs were commercial NPs. The impact of NPs on the membrane morphology was investigated by SEM and AFM. The composite CA membranes have been characterized by their contact angle, porosity, and water content. Membrane performance has been investigated in terms of water permeability and salt retention such as NaCl and Na2SO4. The produced CA composite membrane could be successfully applied for salt removal, particularly the CA-Fe3O4 composite membrane, which shows good water permeability (15.4 L/m2h bar) and higher salt rejection (93%).Consequently, the use of low-density hydrophilic NPs in the polymeric dope solution produces membranes with higher hydrophilicity and the ability to reduce the membrane fouling.
The effects of ion implantation damage to photonic crystal optomechanical resonators in silicon
Authors: Shakespeare Cliona , Loippo Teemu , Lyyra Henri , Muhonen Juha T
Published: November 2021

Optomechanical resonators were fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator substrate that had been implanted with phosphorus donors. The resonators’ mechanical and optical properties were then measured (at 6 K and room temperature) before and after the substrate was annealed. All measured resonators survived the annealing and their mechanical linewidths decreased while their optical and mechanical frequencies increased. This is consistent with crystal lattice damage from the ion implantation causing the optical and mechanical properties to degrade and then subsequently being repaired by the annealing. We explain these effects qualitatively with changes in the silicon crystal lattice structure. We also report on some unexplained features in the pre-anneal samples. In addition, we report partial fabrication of optomechanical resonators with neon ion milling.
Queer(ing) Reproductive Justice
Authors: Fixmer-Oraiz Natalie , Yam Shui-yin Sharon
Published: November 2021

The history, principles, and contributions of the reproductive justice (RJ) framework to queer family formation is the nexus that connects the coalitional potential between RJ and queer justice. How the three pillars of RJ intersect with the systemic marginalization of LGBTQ people—especially poor queer people of color—helps clarify how the RJ framework can elaborate the intersectional understandings of queer reproductive politics and kin.
Rewards for Being a Senior Public Servant: Principles and Issues
Authors: Peters B. Guy
Published: November 2021

Governments must decide how much to pay their civil servants as well as what sorts of other rewards they should provide to those employees. These governments are faced with the need to attract high-quality personnel to government while also maintaining some frugality for political as well as fiscal reasons. The amount and manner in which public servants are rewarded varies markedly across countries. Some of these differences are a function of economic factors, but a number of other factors such as political cultures and the centrality of the public service to economic management of the country are also important. Public servants receive their pay and benefits while employed, but in many instances a good deal of their lifetime income is received after they leave government and are employed in the private or the quasi-public sector. Further, in some political systems public sector pensions are generous and consume a significant proportion of the public budget. The question of rewards for being a public servant is both empirical and normative. A number of contending principles can be used to guide decision makers when choosing patterns of regards, but politics is often the dominant factor.
Crisis Governance, Emergency Management, and the Digital Revolution
Authors: Roberts Patrick S. , Misra Shalini , Tang Joanne
Published: November 2021

Digital technologies have fundamentally altered emergency and crisis management work through increased potential for role ambiguity, role conflict, distraction, and overload. Multilevel approaches to improve congruence between crisis managers and their environments have the potential to reduce cognitive and organizational barriers and improve decision making. The future of crisis management lies in reducing the misalignment between personal, proximal, and distal environmental conditions.
Democracy
Authors: Beckman Ludvig
Published: November 2021

Democracy is a term that is used to denote a variety of distinct objects and ideas. Democracy describes either a set of political institutions or an ideal of collective self-rule. Democracy can also be short for a normative principle of either legitimacy or justice. Finally, democracy might be used to denote an egalitarian attitude. These four uses of the term should be kept distinct and raises separate conceptual and normative issues.

The value of democracy, whether democratic political institutions or democratic self-rule, is either instrumental, non-instrumental, or both. The non-instrumental value of democracy derives either from the alleged fairness of majority rule or from the value of the social relationships enabled by participation in democratic procedures. The instrumental value of democracy lends support from a growing body of empirical research. Yet, the claim that democracy has a positive causal effect on public goods is inconclusive with respect to the moral justification of democratic institutions. Normative reasons for democracy’s instrumental value must instead appeal to the fact that it contributes to equality, liberty, truth, or the realization of popular will.

Democracy as a principle of either political legitimacy or justice is a normative view that evades concerns with the definition and value of democracy. Normative democracy is a claim about the conditions either for legitimacy or justice of either public authority or coercion. Debates in normative democracy are largely divorced from the conceptual and empirical concerns that inform studies of democracy elsewhere.

The boundaries of the people entitled to participate in collective decisions is a question that applies to all four uses of democracy. The boundary question raises three distinct issues. The first is the extent of inclusion required among the members of the unit. The second is if membership in the unit is necessary for inclusion or if people that are not recognized as members are on certain conditions also entitled to participate. The third and final issue concerns the boundaries of the unit itself.
Synesthesia
Authors: Ward Jamie
Published: November 2021

People with synesthesia have unusual sensory experiences whereby one stimulus elicits another: Words may evoke tastes, numbers evoke colors, and so on. The eliciting stimulus is called the inducer, whereas the synesthetic experience, which is normally percept-like in quality, is referred to as the concurrent. Synesthetic experiences use some of the same neural substrates as “real” perception. The associations are influenced by cross-modal correspondences between the senses (e.g., high pitch being bright or light) and regularities in one’s own environment. Synesthesia comes in many varieties, but these likely stem from a common cause (because different varieties tend to co-occur together). This is normally explained in terms of an atypical neurodevelopmental cascade from genetic differences that affect brain development and give rise to an atypical profile of behaviors (of which synesthesia is one). People with synesthesia not only have unusual sensory experiences—this being the trait that defines them—but also present with a distinctive cognitive profile (affecting memory, imagery, perception) that has impacts on their life choices (e.g., occupation) and may predispose selectively toward certain clinical vulnerabilities.
Neuroendocrinology of Stress and Addiction
Authors: Kinsey Steven , Vanegas Olivia , Trexler Kristen , Steele Floyd , Eckard Matthew
Published: November 2021

The stress response evolved as a series of neural and endocrine mechanisms that protect the host organism from threats to homeostasis. Repeated use of psychotropic drugs can lead to the development of tolerance (i.e., decreased drug activity at a given dose) and drug dependence, as indicated by withdrawal syndromes following drug abstinence. Drug withdrawal is often overtly stressful, although acute drug exposure may also represent a threat to homeostasis. This article explores the neuroendocrine effects of drugs of abuse and some of the ways in which stress and appetitive mechanisms interact.
Ecologically Sustaining Research Partnerships
Authors: Jozwiak Melissa M. , Burgard Karen L. B.
Published: November 2021

It is essential that universities and local or government agencies begin to work together to do unconventional and impactful research that is mutually sustaining to both partners. When done well, the partnerships will strengthen the positions of each institution to continue to do their work and create new opportunities for equity and advancement. The challenges associated with building these types of partnerships are numerous, but even more challenges exist when the partnerships are committed to working in solidarity.

To create partnerships that are examples of solidarity leading to mutual sustainability, partners must be intentional about using an ecological-systems model to shape the decision-making process. In doing so, the partners enact an Ecologically Sustaining Research Partnership (ESRP), which ensures that both partners are strengthened by and exist beyond the life of the partnership. Importantly, ESRPs are committed to equity and empowerment and use the ecological-systems model to shift the basis of power in favor of commonly oppressed groups. This emancipatory approach to research is essential for the field of early childhood, but it can also be expanded to guide partnerships between universities and communities across disciplines.
Inclusive Intercultural Education in Multicultural Societies
Authors: Cárdenas-Rodríguez Rocío , Terrón-Caro Teresa
Published: November 2021

Cultural diversity is a characteristic of plural societies, and the way that each society approaches that diversity determines whether or not the societies evolve or stagnate, whether cultural groups remain segregated or integrate, and whether social inequalities grow or if communities affirm the value of diversity and promote equality.

For this reason, it is important to analyze the cultural diversity management system that guides our interventions because the socioeducational methods and practices designed for any given plural context depends on them. Research refers to the assimilationist, multicultural, and intercultural cultural diversity management models, and the conclusion appears to be that the intercultural model is the framework that [best] accounts for an integrated and inclusive society.

Interculturalism requires the establishment of policies that champion equity, in order to achieve equality at the legal and social levels, and that promote genuine equality of opportunity. At the same time, it demands pedagogical practices based in civic education. An intercultural education should help us learn to live together and should educate people, to grow their knowledge, understanding, and respect for cultural diversity.

Intercultural education is a reflective, socioeducational practice focused on social and cultural transformation through equal rights, equity, and positive interaction between different cultures. Intercultural education is characterized by an acknowledgment of cultural diversity, a positive valuation of egalitarian relations, equal educational opportunities for all, and moving beyond racism and discrimination.

Fundamentally, intercultural education can be understood as an educational model that champions cultural diversity and the advantages it offers within an education context, such as the values of human rights and equality, and a rejection of cultural discrimination.