bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy aggregate and different admixtures effect on pavings: pyrite, corundum and water-retaining polymer
Authors: Ustabas Ilker , Erdogdu Sakir , Akyuz Cihan , Kurt Zafer , Cakmak Talip
Published: April 2024

Concrete pavings are widely used in the construction industry as flooring for decorative and structural purposes in the gardens, parks, and roads of America, and Europe. In the present study, the effects of pyrite, corundum, and water-retaining polymer additives on the surface wear resistance of concrete pavings were investigated. Concrete pavings were poured in 2 stages and all of the bottom layers of samples were the same, but upper layers of pavings were produced by adding pyrite in the ratio of 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40 according to the mass of the aggregate, 5 kg /m2 corundum-based surface hardener to the paving surface area, and a high amount of water-absorbing polymer at a ratio of 0.05 and 0.10 to the water content of the mixture. Vertical abrasion, splitting tensile strength, water absorption, freeze-thaw resistance, pendulum footed friction, and surface hardness measurements with Schmidt test hammer experiments were made to TS 2824 EN 1338 standard. Also, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses were carried out to characterize the produced materials. Results of the study indicate that the use of pyrite, corundum, and water-retaining polymers provided improvements in the surface wear resistance of concrete pavings.Concrete pavings are widely used in the construction industry as flooring for decorative and structural purposes in the gardens, parks, and roads of America, and Europe. In the present study, the effects of pyrite, corundum, and water-retaining polymer additives on the surface wear resistance of concrete pavings were investigated. Concrete pavings were poured in 2 stages and all of the bottom layers of samples were the same, but upper layers of pavings were produced by adding pyrite in the ratio of 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40 according to the mass of the aggregate, 5 kg /m2 corundum-based surface hardener to the paving surface area, and a high amount of water-absorbing polymer at a ratio of 0.05 and 0.10 to the water content of the mixture. Vertical abrasion, splitting tensile strength, water absorption, freeze-thaw resistance, pendulum footed friction, and surface hardness measurements with Schmidt test hammer experiments were made to TS 2824 EN 1338 standard. Also, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses were carried out to characterize the produced materials. Results of the study indicate that the use of pyrite, corundum, and water-retaining polymers provided improvements in the surface wear resistance of concrete pavings.
Experimental and numerical investigation of flexural properties of larch beams reinforced with different layer numbers
Authors: Şimşek Türker Yasemin , Kılınçarslan Şemsettin
Published: April 2024

Recent applications demonstrated how fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites can improve the structural capabilities of glulam beams, particularly regarding their flexural and shear strength. With the development of precise numerical models, such systems can be optimized. There is currently a dearth of information in the literature on numerical models that can accurately anticipate the nonlinear behavior of low-grade glued laminated timber beams reinforced with FRP. In this study, larch beams were reinforced with carbon fiber reinforced polymer fabric 1, 2 and 3 layers. The effect of the number of floors on the flexural properties of the beams in reinforcement was investigated experimentally and numerically. As a result of the study, the best flexural properties were achieved with 3-layer reinforcement. It was observed that 1- and 2-layer reinforcement compared to the reference beam were also significantly effective. Numerical analyzes gave close values with experimental test results. As a result of comparing the results obtained from the numerical model with the experimental findings, it was concluded that the FRP fabric managed to significantly increase the performance of larch timber. The model is a useful tool for examining the effect of reinforcement coefficient and will be used for optimization of the larch beam.Recent applications demonstrated how fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites can improve the structural capabilities of glulam beams, particularly regarding their flexural and shear strength. With the development of precise numerical models, such systems can be optimized. There is currently a dearth of information in the literature on numerical models that can accurately anticipate the nonlinear behavior of low-grade glued laminated timber beams reinforced with FRP. In this study, larch beams were reinforced with carbon fiber reinforced polymer fabric 1, 2 and 3 layers. The effect of the number of floors on the flexural properties of the beams in reinforcement was investigated experimentally and numerically. As a result of the study, the best flexural properties were achieved with 3-layer reinforcement. It was observed that 1- and 2-layer reinforcement compared to the reference beam were also significantly effective. Numerical analyzes gave close values with experimental test results. As a result of comparing the results obtained from the numerical model with the experimental findings, it was concluded that the FRP fabric managed to significantly increase the performance of larch timber. The model is a useful tool for examining the effect of reinforcement coefficient and will be used for optimization of the larch beam.
Using recycled plastic waste as fiber reinforcement on limestone residue mortar
Authors: Bendjillali Khadra , Chemrouk Mohamed
Published: April 2024

The main purpose of the paper is to study the effect of the geometry of recycled plastic fiber on the performance of mortar basing on natural limestone residue. The used fibers were collected from plastic waste of polypropylene, resulting from domestic sweeps fabrication. Two types of recycled fibers were used, straight and crimped fibers, which have the same length (20 ± 2 mm) and the same diameter (0.45 ± 0.07 mm). Four dosages of fibers were considered, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 wt. %. The obtained results show that the geometry of recycled plastic fibers has an important effect on the performances of limestone residue mortar. The addition of recycled fibers to mortar decreases its workability and the decrease is higher with crimped fibers. The results revealed that the limit dosage of recycled plastic fiber necessary to obtain a workable mortar is 1 % and 0.5 % for straight and crimped fibers, respectively. The benefit of recycled plastic fibers is well observed on the flexural and compressive behavior of limestone residue mortar, but the strength’s values are higher in straight fibers mortar (SFM) than that in crimped fibers mortar (CFM). The microstructure analysis confirms the good performances of the fiber mortar.
Utilización de micelio en el desarrollo de un sistema constructivo: componentes compuestos para la edificación modular de vivienda colectiva
Authors:   , Pizarro Oyarzún Nicolás Enrique
Published: April 2024

Dentro de las últimas dos décadas, los componentes basados en micelio han surgido como una alternativa prometedora en la arquitectura debido a su ligereza, baja energía incorporada y biodegradabilidad. El diseño y experimentación con prototipos que utilizan este biomaterial ha aumentado, con el objetivo de explorar su potencial y ofrecer alternativas que permitan reducir la huella de carbono ocasionada por la construcción. A pesar del creciente interés en el micelio, su alcance se ha limitado a productos experimentales de menor escala, paneles de tabiquería y pabellones temporales, los cuales no requieren una resistencia estructural significativa. Lo anterior se debe primordialmente a que sus capacidades mecánicas todavía se encuentran en desventaja en contraste con los materiales tradicionales, en términos de rigidez, deformación y resistencia a la tracción y la compresión.Frente a este contexto, la presente investigación se centra en la exploración de las propiedades estructurales y capacidades mecánicas del micelio, con el fin de poder ser utilizado en un contexto de mayor escala y durabilidad. Para ello, se identificarán las estrategias necesarias para aumentar la resistencia estructural de los componentes basados en este biomaterial, a través de una revisión sistemática del estado del arte de los componentes de micelio, la recabación de operaciones utilizadas en sistemas constructivos existentes, y la exploración con prototipos. El propósito es poder integrar estas estrategias en el desarrollo de un sistema constructivo experimental de dos a tres pisos de altura utilizando micelio como material principal.El uso del micelio en el desarrollo experimental del sistema constructivo se basará en sus propiedades mecánicas y su capacidad de trabajar como material compuesto en diversas estrategias de refuerzo y confinado que permitan aumentar su resistencia estructural. Se elaborará el diseño de piezas y componentes prefabricados capaces de ser utilizados de manera modular en el montaje de este sistema, considerando las estrategias identificadas. En última instancia, se llevará a cabo el diseño de dos proyectos de arquitectura utilizando el sistema constructivo desarrollado, con el objetivo de explorar, evaluar y analizar los alcances del micelio en la arquitectura y la construcción.
Agua y suelo: trayectorias alternativas del agua niebla en Alto Patache
Authors:   , Domínguez Larraín María Jesús
Published: April 2024

Esta tesis es una consideración crítica y proyectual de los efectos y posibilidades que produciría la introducción de abundante agua sobre el paisaje del desierto más árido del mundo. Esto, en la medida del potencial impacto que tendría en el paisaje la captación efectiva de los millones de litros de agua que diariamente pasan por el oasis de niebla de Alto Patache a través de atrapanieblas. En efecto, el agua niebla conduce el paso de millones de litros de agua que diariamente recorren el sitio y que posteriormente se evaporan sin mayor dificultad debido a la alta radiación y aumento de la temperatura. Sin embargo, los atrapanieblas constituyen dispositivos capaces de interceptar la nube y transformarla en agua que podría ser utilizada para generar cambios directos sobre el paisaje. En este contexto, el proyecto de arquitectura se posiciona en la modificación de cierto momento del tránsito natural del agua niebla abordando el problema del manejo de los millones de litros potenciales a capturar para experimentar su introducción en el paisaje, donde el agua representaría un sistema en constante cambio capaz de explotar y complejizar las posibilidades del territorio vinculadas a un proyecto experimental que configura nuevas relaciones entre el agua, el paisaje y el suelo. Las potencialidades exploratorias del ejercicio utilizarían la niebla para revelar las oportunidades de esta estrategia en el terreno mediante la introducción de infraestructuras hídricas, aproximando a nuevas condiciones ambientales, representaciones y visualizaciones del paisaje de Alto Patache.
Forma y contenido en la composición de ópera contemporánea: reflexiones, sistematizaciones y proyecciones de la Cápsula "Federico Alcalde" en la ópera serial "Sucupira"
Authors:   , Fernández Toro Cristián
Published: April 2024

El presente documento da cuenta del proceso de investigación-creación en torno a la composición de la ópera serial Sucupira a partir de la adaptación de la telenovela del mismo nombre, emitida por TVN el año 1996. A su vez, pretende exponer las diferentes interrogantes y sistematizaciones emergentes producto de la observación y reflexión en torno a mi práctica artística, teniendo en consideración lo propuesto por diferentes autores respecto a la práctica como investigación (en tanto metodología utilizada), con un aporte nuevo: pretendo defender una metodología basada en la práctica cuya cualidad eminentemente subjetiva no excluye el universo social, histórico, económico, cultural que envuelven y atraviesan al sujeto creador, permitiendo así problematizar diferentes ejes del conocimiento generado a partir del proceso creativo. El proyecto titulado “Forma y Contenido en la composición de ópera contemporánea: Reflexiones, sistematizaciones y proyecciones de la cápsula Federico Alcalde, en la Ópera Serial Sucupira” tiene como objetivo general comprender cómo pueden establecerse diversos vínculos entre forma y contenido a través de las estructuras sonoras y los materiales utilizados en la composición de una ópera. Esta interrogante, como punto de partida, implicaba tomar posturas teóricas respecto a aquellos conceptos claves del trabajo, tales como la misma definición de “ópera”, “adaptación”, “libreto”, entre otros; por lo que este trabajó nos ha permitido además – como se pretendía en un inicio – aportar al debate musical sobre la noción de ópera a través del concepto de Ekphrasis Musical sobre estructuras pluri-textuales, lo cual fue necesario, a su vez, para repensar las técnicas de composición y análisis tradicionales de ópera a través de la síntesis de diversas técnicas analíticas y compositivas contemporáneas. Por otra parte, el resultado musical fue la creación de lo que llamaré aquí “Cápsula” en marco de un proyecto con proyección a futuro de una “Ópera Serial”, conceptos que desarrollaré posteriormente y que refieren a aspectos formales de la obra.
The climate of democracy: effects of exposure to warmer temperatures on electoral outcomes in Chile
Authors:   , Araya Alfaro Paula Montserratt
Published: April 2024

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) predicts an increase in global temperatures by the early 2030s, exacerbating regional climate shifts and extreme weather events beyond initial forecasts. This paper explores the nexus between cumulative exposure to warmer temperature shocks and voting behaviors in Chilean national and local elections. Drawing on a dataset spanning 1988 to 2021 and employing panel regression with location and time-fixed effects, I uncover nuanced electoral responses to temperature fluctuations. Results indicate a positive relationship between exposure to warmer temperatures in the year before an election and voter turnout, particularly in local elections, with minimal impact observed at the national level. Moreover, exposure to cumulative warmer temperatures correlates with increased support for left-wing and nontraditional candidates in local races. Heterogeneous analysis reveals that in populations with the least adaptive capacities, new entry votes go, in most cases, to support outsiders, i.e., the “punishment vote” comes from the population most vulnerable to climate shocks. Mechanisms underlying these findings include income reductions from climate shocks and altered perceptions of democratic efficacy in addressing climate challenges. This study contributes to understanding the political ramifications of climate change, particularly in developing democracies like Chile, and underscores the role of exposure to changing climatic conditions in shaping electoral dynamics.
Quantum measurement transition and entanglement of trapped ions and optomechanical systems
Authors:   , Araya Sossa Kevin Jordan
Published: April 2024

Although quantum mechanics has been able to explain a wide range of physical, chemical, and even biological events with unprecedented accuracy, fundamental problems remain. For instance, the problem of quantum measurement and quantum entanglement, which are the most perplexing problems that have persisted since the foundation of quantum mechanics. Both are crucial quantum resources with broad applications in quantum information science, quantum computing and quantum optics. For this reason, this thesis is devoted to research the quantum measurement from the weakest regime to the strongest one as well as the dynamics of entanglement of different quantum systems. In this work, we study the measurement transition for a coherent-squeezed pointer state through a transition factor Γ that involves a system-pointer coupling by using an arbitrary measured observable A. In addition, we show that the shift in the pointer’s position and momentum establishes a relationship with a new value defined as the transition value, which generalizes the weak value as well as the conditional expectation value. Furthermore, a new strategy is introduced to achieve different measurement regimes by just adjusting the r and ϕξ parameters of the coherent-squeezed pointer state, opening an interesting way to test quantum mechanics foundations. Our scheme has been theoretically applied in a trapped ion illuminated by a bichromatic laser beam, with a high potential to be implemented in future experimental setups. Besides, we propose a method to regulate the quantum entanglement in the system mentioned before as well as a dispersive-hybrid system where a qubit is directly coupled to a cavity and a mechanical resonator. Entanglement can be controlled by only tuning the squeezing parameters associated with the vibrational mode. As the squeezing amplitude becomes larger, the maximal entanglement abruptly falls to zero at specific squeezing phases. For the hybrid system, it is also possible to generate entanglement for bipartitions from the qubit-cavity-resonator system after applying this strategy. Entangled qubit-cavity states are created through squeezing, even though there is no direct interaction between them. We also analyze the effect of atomic, optical, and vibrational losses on the quantum entanglement. We finally discuss our schemes to be implemented in future experimental setups and promote further studies to generalize the concept of “monogamy of entanglement” in tripartite systems outside qubit-composite states, in particular, (2 ⊗ 2 ⊗ n)-dimensional systems.
Cartografía de una escritura menor: las escritoras de la Generación del 38: tensiones y desplazamientos en torno al canon
Authors:   , Cristi Cabello Ana María
Published: April 2024

La presente investigación tiene como propósito analizar e interpretar el corpus literario producido por mujeres en el contexto estético y político que surge con la denominada generación de 1938 en Chile, con la finalidad de evidenciar el componente estético, político y social de su escritura. Involucradas en ste trabajo se encuentran Marta Jara (1919-1972), Maité Allamand (Jeanne Dominique Marie Therese Allamand Madaune 1911-1996), Pepita Turina (Josefina Alvina Turina Turina 1907-1986), Carmen de Alonso (Carmen Carrasco Berríos 1909-1993) y Dinka Villarroel (Dinka Ilic 1903-1969), cuyas obras narrativas, producidas entre 1935 y 1960, se destacan por problematizar las categorías identitarias con las cuales su narrativa fue catalogada por la crítica literaria nacional de la época, a saber, “evasiva”, “intimista”, “subjetivista” o derechamente “no comprometida”. En términos metodológicos, esta investigación desarrolla un modelo de análisis cartográfico, a partir de la propuesta conceptual elaborada por Gilles Deleuze y Félix Guattari (1980). Esta lectura privilegia la concepción de mapa, mediante un análisis que propicia desplazamientos, conexiones e intervenciones en torno a la concepción de generación literaria, así como también en torno a las diversas lecturas que, tanto la crítica literaria tradicional como la ginocrítica, han realizado en torno a la producción literaria de las escritoras. La propuesta de lectura es, por consiguiente, la realización de un mapa abierto y móvil en torno a la producción narrativa de las escritoras del 38, que permita desplazar las categorías identitarias, jerárquicas y binarias antes señaladas, con la finalidad de mostrar el dinamismo y complejidad de sus escrituras.
Revisão sistemática acerca da síndrome Burnout em instituições de ensino superior
Authors: Oliveira Charles Miller de Góis , Felipe Wiliane de França , Silva Kennedy Paiva da , Barroso João Victor de Lima , Santos Hélen Kaliane Dantas de Medeiros , Gil Maria Angélica Aires
Published: April 2024

O estudo atual visa conduzir uma revisão sistemática sobre a Síndrome de Burnout em instituições de ensino superior, abrangendo os últimos 10 anos. Utilizando o sistema da ANPAD (Associação Nacional de Pós-Graduação e Pesquisa em Administração) como repositório principal, a seleção de artigos foi realizada com base no construtor "Burnout" e critérios específicos de inclusão e exclusão. Foram escolhidos 10 artigos conforme as definições estabelecidas. Após a seleção, os artigos foram organizados em quadros para análise, considerando a relação entre o construtor, critérios de inclusão e exclusão, palavras-chave, título e temática, com o intuito de avaliar o nível de agregação. Adicionalmente, foram examinados os objetivos, metodologia, sujeito da pesquisa, natureza da instituição e os conceitos relacionados às dimensões de Burnout. Como resultado, observou-se que os objetivos do estudo foram atingidos.
Hepatic Artery Embolisation in Polytrauma Patients: A Case Series
Authors: Kumar Saurabh , Mishra Siddharth , Dikshit Nitin Arun , Rawat Anil
Published: April 2024

Blunt hepatic injury is quite common in polytrauma cases. In this high-speed era, polytrauma cases are increasing, with serious mortality and morbidity. Authors hereby, described cases of three male patients presenting with blunt abdominal injuries and hepatic lacerations managed successfully with transarterial embolisation with minimal risk. The goal of the present case series was to demonstrate how hepatic artery embolisation can be used to treat blunt hepatic injuries in haemodynamically unstable patients when open surgery is not an option. All patients presenting with blunt trauma to the abdomen were initially screened by Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST), followed by Computed Tomography (CT) angiography of the abdomen where needed, and planned for embolisation of active bleeders or pseudoaneurysms. Transarterial hepatic artery embolisation is used for the management of high- grade liver injuries. Acute post-injury phases with definite evidence of bleeders in CT angiography, and situations where the diagnostic laparotomy is negative but the patient is unstable with low haemoglobin and requires a blood transfusion, are common indications for hepatic artery embolisation. Successful management of high-grade liver injuries often involves a combined angiographic and surgical approach. However, in situations where surgical intervention is not possible, Interventional Radiology (IR) might be the only saviour.
The Welfare (Inequality and Growth) Effects of Urbanization: Empirical Evidence from China
Authors:   Shanghai DianJi University, Hu Xiaoshan , Jiang Weirui ,   Fudan University, Wan Guanghua ,   Fudan University, Zhang Jiehao ,   Fudan University
Published: April 2024

Combining household survey and aggregate provincial data, this paper explores the overall social welfare (growth plus inequality) effect of unprecedented urbanization in China. It is found that (1) urbanization does help raise income, particularly for rural residents and the relatively poor; (2) urbanization is one of the most important contributors to rising inequality in China. However, such adverse influence has been declining over time; and (3) the overall welfare (inequality plus growth) impact of urbanization is positive and rising. It can thus be concluded that public policy makers in China shall devote efforts to promote rather than slow down urbanization in China despite its short-run adverse distributional effect.
Changes in the Dependence Structure of AROPE Components: Evidence from the Spanish Regions
Authors:   Universidad de Valladolid, García-Gómez César , Pérez Ana ,   Universidad de Valladolid, Prieto-Alaiz Mercedes ,   Universidad de Valladolid
Published: April 2024

The AROPE rate is a multidimensional indicator to monitor poverty in the European Union which combines income, work intensity and material deprivation. However, it misses the possible relationship between its components. To overcome this drawback, some authors proposed to complement the AROPE rate with measures of the dependence between its dimensions, since higher dependence can exacerbate poverty. In this paper, we follow this approach and measure such dependence in the Spanish regions over the period 2008-2018 using three multivariate versions of Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Our results reveal an asymmetric effect of the economic cycle on the dependence between poverty dimensions, as this dependence, in many Spanish regions, substantially increased during the Great Recession but dropped little during the economic recovery. Moreover, regions with higher AROPE rates also tend to experience more dependence between its dimensions.
Intergenerational Mobility and Inequality in China: Evidence from the Chinese Household Income Project
Authors:   Queen Mary University of London, Jiang Zehua , Bandyopadhyay Sanghamitra ,   Queen Mary University of London
Published: April 2024

We document intergenerational mobility in the income distribution in China, using Chinese Household Income Project survey data from the 1990s till 2013. To obtain a robust picture of mobility, we use several measures of mobility: from the most commonly used intergenerational income elasticity to the innovative rank mobility measures. We then estimate quantile regressions to capture variation along the income distribution. Conclusively, our results suggest higher dependence of children’s income on parental income for lower income generational pairs, indicating challenges to promote upward mobility and reducing inequality.
Studies on the Impact of Microbial Consortia towards Enhancing the Growth of Red Sanders
Authors: M Tilak. , Vijayan R. , Sivakumar K. , Radha M. Kirubha, P. , Devanand P.S. , Vaiyapuri K. , Murugesh M.
Published: April 2024

The use of plant growth-promoting microorganisms, either alone or combined, as bioinoculants presents an economical and eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. This method provides a comprehensive solution for enhancing plant growth and yield. This study aimed to develop robust microbial consortia possessing plant growth-promoting capabilities and evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing tree seedling growth. Six bacterial strains were collected and screened for specific traits linked to promoting plant growth. Selected strains were then assessed for compatibility with each other, resulting in the formation of bacterial consortia. These consortia demonstrated diverse plant growth-promoting properties, including the production of the plant growth hormone indole acetic acid and the synthesis of exopolysaccharides. Consequently, these bacterial consortia exhibit significant potential as bioinoculants, offering a promising approach to enhancing plant growth and productivity in an environmentally friendly manner. This contributes to the progress of efforts aimed at promoting seedling growth.
Morphological and Biochemical Characterization of Strains of Ralstonia solanacearum, Causal Agent of Bacterial Wilt in Tomatoes in Cameroon and Screening of Virulent Strains
Authors: Mountseng Cylvain Patrick , Mahot Hermine , Membang Gertrude , Mboussi Serges Bertrand , Begoude Didier , Ambang Zachée
Published: April 2024

Ralstonia solanacearum is a major constraint in tomato production. The aim of this work was to identify the different biovars and races of R. solanacearum which infect tomato plants in Cameroon and determine the most virulent in a gnotobiotic environment. Thirty (30) samples were collected in the field of 03 different agro-ecological zones considered as major tomato production area in Cameroon. The bacteria were isolated on modified Kelman solid medium, and identified based on morphological and biochemical characterization. The pathogenicity test was performed in a gnotobiotic environment by root inoculation. Twenty-nine (29) isolates showed colonies characteristic of virulent strains. Water, motility, catalase, KOH, Kovac oxidase, glucose reduction, and sucrose tests were positive. However, gram staining, spore production, arginine test and sulfate reduction were negative. The biovar tests carried out revealed the presence16.66% biovar 2 (bv 2) and 76.66% biovar 3(bv 3). The tobacco hypersensitivity tests carried out revealed the presence of two (02) races: race 1 and race 3 (majority). A predominance of race3 biovar 3 was observed in Cameroon. Results from pathogenicity test revealed that two (02) strains, FM6 (race 3 bv2) and BFo (race 3 bv 3) were high virulent, causing up to 100% loss of seedlings on the sixth day post-inoculation.
Effect of Nutrition Health and Hygiene Education on Knowledge Attitude and Practices KAP among Selected Transgender Community
Authors: B V Vijetha , Ravindra Usha , K J Yogeesh
Published: April 2024

The Transgender (TG) community has been steadily growing over the decades, yet they face a unique set of challenges. Apart from communicable diseases many transgenders suffer from nutrition deficiency associated non communicable diseases, which decreases the quality of living. The purpose of this study was to examine how nutritional, health and hygiene education influences the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the TG population. The participants were TG individuals over 18 years old. TG individuals visiting ESI hospital Gulbarga and few TG from Bengaluru city were selected for the research. A total of 300 TG individuals were initially screened, out of which 120 were selected for the study. The study comprised administering a detailed socio-economic demographic questionnaire, pre-KAP questionnaire, conducting an awareness program with distribution of education material, and then having a gap period of 60 days a post-KAP assessment was done. The results were statistically analysed, before the awareness session (Group I), the majority of participants (60.83%) were categorized as having "Poor" knowledge, only (7.5%) had "Good" knowledge, after the awareness session (Group II), there was a significant improvement in knowledge levels. The percentage of participants with "Poor" knowledge decreased drastically to only 1.67%, with "Good" knowledge increased to 36.67%. Before the awareness session (Group I), the majority of TG participants (66.67%) held "Unfavourable" attitudes, a smaller percentage (24.17%) held "Neutral" attitudes, the least common attitude was "Favourable," held by 9.17% of participants. After the awareness session (Group II), there was a noticeable shift in attitudes. The percentage of participants with "Unfavourable" attitudes decreased dramatically to only 2.50%, with "Neutral" attitudes increased substantially to 67.50%, similarly, with "Favourable" attitudes increased to 30.00%. Before the intervention (Group I), the majority of participants (70.83%) exhibited "Poor" practices. After the intervention (Group II), "Poor" practices decreased to 7.50%, with "Average" practices increased substantially to 65.83%, similarly, with "Good" practices increased to 26.67%. Rank correlation between pre and post KAP and socioeconomic domains had significant association These findings suggest that educational qualification, family size, facilities available, are important factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the subject under study.
Prevalence and Some Virulence Factors of Salmonella spp Isolated from Pigs and Piggery in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Chimezie Joel, , Owhonka Aleruchi, , Patience Akani, Nedie
Published: April 2024

Piggery habitats are a substantial reservoir and are frequently asymptomatic carriers of the bacterium, Salmonella. Salmonella can be shed in faeces, urine allowing infection to spread to other pigs and the environment. Therefore, there is a need to determine the prevalence and some virulence factors of Salmonella spp in pigs and piggery. The study areas were M & K pig farm Alakahia (station A) and Rivers State University pig farm (station B). A total evaluation of 112 samples were obtained with seven sample types comprising of faeces, floor, food trough, foreskin, urine, walls, and water trough were aseptically collected using sterile universal bottle and swab sticks. Samples were examined for presence of Salmonella using standard microbiological approach for enumeration and identification. Mean Salmonella-Shigella counts (SSC) for faecal sample ranges for station A and B were: 1.6 to 3.1x105cfu/g, floor 5x104 to 2.0x105cfu/m2, food trough 3x104 to 1.2x105cfu/m2, Foreskin 4x104 to 1.4x105cfu/m2, urine 0 to 1x104cfu/ml, Wall 5x104 to 2x105cfu/m2, Water trough 6x104 to 1.3x105cfu/m2. Seventy-five isolates of Salmonella belonging to 5 species were isolated which include with feacal sample recording the highest prevalence (10.7%) at both locations. The virulence test performed on all Salmonella isolates were 100% motile, haemolysis, catalase and S. typhimurium (80%), S. choloraesius (89.4%), S. enterica (93.3%) S.enteritidis (54.5%) and S. bongori (100%) to biofilm production test. The high prevalence and virulent factors observed in this study indicate high potential risk of transmission of Salmonella spp in piggery, which can have a serious implication to public health. It is essential that a more effective control strategies be employed to minimize the prevalence of salmonella spp in pigs and piggery in Port Harcourt metropolis.
Pengaruh Perbedaan Suhu Curing dan pH Cairan Pembersih Terhadap Ceramic Coating
Authors: Hernando Ivan Christian , Widjaja Juan Albert , Vieri Michael
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini menginvestigasi pengaruh variasi jenis spray gun terhadap ketebalan cat pada panel yang diuji. Parameter utama yang diperhatikan adalah perbedaan jarak penyemprotan dan variasi gerakan penyemprotan. Setelah proses pengecatan, panel tersebut melanjutkan tahap ceramic coating. Fokus dilanjutkan pada pengujian perbedaan pH pada permukaan lapisan ceramic coating, menggambarkan interaksi antara jenis spray gun dan kualitas lapisan pelindung yang dihasilkan. Selain itu, penelitian juga mempertimbangkan pengaruh perbedaan suhu curing terhadap lapisan ceramic coating, mengevaluasi stabilitas dan performa material pada berbagai kondisi suhu. Hasil penelitian ini dapat memberikan wawasan mendalam mengenai optimalisasi teknik penyemprotan dan proses ceramic coating, memperkaya pemahaman dalam industri pengecatan dan perlapisan pelindung. Dari penelitian yang ada didapati bahwa pH asam dan pH basa memiliki sifat abrasif yang paling tinggi dan sangat dianjurkan untuk menghindari pemakaian pH yang tidak netral pada permukaan lapisan coating.
PENGARUH KUALITAS PRODUK DAN KUALITAS LAYANAN TERHADAP KEPUASAN KONSUMEN DAN MINAT BELI ULANG DI WIZZ DRIVE THRU GELATO SURABAYA
Authors: Teressa Benedicta , Lukito Jovita Intan , Aprilia Adriana , Andreani Fransisca
Published: April 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian adalah menganalisis pengaruh kualitas produk dan kualitas layanan terhadap kepuasan konsumen dan minat beli ulang di Wizz Drive Thru Gelato Surabaya. Metode penelitian kuantitatif dengan lima-skala Likert sebagai metode pengukurannya. Populasi dalam penelitian adalah seluruh konsumen yang telah berkunjung dan membeli di Wizz Gelato dengan jumlah sampel 120 responden, dimana pengambilan sampel menggunakan purposive sampling. Alat analisis menggunakan SmartPLS. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kualitas produk berpengaruh positif namun tidak signifikan; kualitas layanan berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap kepuasan konsumen; kepuasan konsumen berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap minat beli ulang. Kualitas produk berpengaruh positif dan tidak signifikan terhadap minat beli ulang dengan kepuasan konsumen sebagai variabel mediasi. Terakhir, kualitas layanan berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap minat beli ulang dengan kepuasan konsumen sebagai variabel mediasi.
PENGARUH FAKTOR PENDORONG BELANJA ONLINE TERHADAP NIAT PERILAKU KONSUMEN DI KOTA LHOKSEUMAWE DENGAN METODE PEMBAYARAN CASH-ON-DELIVERY SEBAGAI VARIABEL MEDIASI
Authors: Ajnura Ulvia , Ikramuddin Ikramuddin , Chalirafi Chalirafi , Subhan Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji berbagai faktor pendorong belanja online dan pengaruhnya terhadap niat perilaku pengguna e-commerce Shopee di Kota Lhokseumawe dan juga menguji metode pembayaran Cash-on-Delivery sebagai mediator untuk meningkatkan niat perilaku konsumen berbelanja online. Faktor pendorong belanja online diidentifikasi berdasarkan model UTAUT2. Hasil empiris menunjukkan bahwa faktor pendorong belanja online memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap metode pembayaran Cash-on-Delivery dan niat perilaku. Sedangkan metode pembayaran Cash-on-Delivery memiliki pengaruh positif namun tidak signifikan terhadap niat perilaku, serta tidak ada pengaruh mediasi yang berarti antara hubungan faktor pendorong belanja online terhadap niat perilaku melalui metode pembayaran Cash-on-Delivery.
Distructuring Utopias
Authors: Robert Rubedo: Laurent‐Paul , Robert Vesna Petresin
Published: September 2009

In order to meet the challenges of fast‐paced urban transformations, Laurent‐Paul Robert and Dr Vesna Petresin Robert of Rubedo call for a rethinking of the perennial Utopian model of urban design. They espouse a design strategy that is both able ‘to reflect the dynamics of urban growth and decay’, while meeting the needs of a ‘post‐capitalist economy’ ‐ a condition in which change is the only constant. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epoxy–siloxane hybrid coatings by a dual‐curing process
Authors: Malucelli Giulio , Amerio Ezio , Minelli Matteo , De Angelis Maria Grazia
Published: September 2009

Coatings based on a hybrid organic–inorganic epoxy system were prepared by a dual‐curing mechanism, via cationic photopolymerization in the first step at room temperature and a subsequent hydrolysis/condensation reaction of a trialkoxy‐silane compound (sol–gel process) at high temperature. To this end, a high Tg epoxy resin (3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl‐3′‐cyclohexenyl‐methyl adipate, UVR 6128) was added in increasing amounts to a precursor for the inorganic‐like phase (3,4‐epoxycyclohexylethyltrimethoxysilane, EETMOS). The mixture contained triphenylsulfoniumhexafluoroantimonate as a cationic photoinitiator. By this method, the strongly acid environment generated by the photolysis of the triarylsolfunium salt in the first step induces the hydrolysis of EETMOS alkoxy‐silane groups. The films produced in the first step of the process were thermal treated to promote the condensation reactions of the siloxane moieties. The kinetics of the reactions of photopolymerization and condensation was investigated. It was found that the presence of EETMOS increases both the polymerization rate and the final consumption of epoxy groups. Thermogravimetric analyses performed in air have revealed an increased stability of the hybrid coatings with respect to the films produced from formulations without EETMOS. A significant increase in surface hardness was also observed for the hybrid coatings. The thermo‐mechanical properties were found to be strongly affected by the temperature used in the thermally induced reactions in the second step. The hybrid coatings on a low‐density polyethylene substrate were found to decrease the diffusivity of oxygen and to increase the oxygen solubility within the coating. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 28:77–85, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20149
Recycling of the solid residue obtained from the pyrolysis of fiberglass polyester sheet molding compound
Authors: Torres A. , De Marco I. , Caballero B. M. , Laresgoiti M. F. , Chomón M. J. , Kondra G.
Published: September 2009

This paper is part of a project devoted to study the pyrolysis process as an alternative for recycling sheet molding compound (SMC), a thermoset composite of polyester and fiberglass. A standard SMC was pyrolyzed under nitrogen, at 300, 400, 500, 600, and 700°C, for 30 min in a 3.5‐dm3 autoclave. This paper focuses on the possibilities of reusing the fibers and fillers contained in the solid residue obtained from SMC pyrolysis. The solid pyrolysis residue was recycled in another thermoset composite, bulk molding compound (BMC), of polyester and fiberglass. The mechanical properties of BMCs prepared with different proportions of the solid residue (fiber + CaCO3 filler) from SMC pyrolysis were compared with those of BMCs prepared with the same proportions of virgin fiber and CaCO3. In summary, pyrolysis can be an appropriate technique for recycling SMC, with 500°C, the most suitable temperature for the process. Solid residues of 75 wt%, composed of 65 wt% of powdery material (mainly CaCO3) and 35 wt% of fiberglass, were obtained. Such solids can be recycled in a proportion of 6 wt% in BMC to replace virgin filler and fiberglass, with no detrimental effect on the BMC mechanical properties. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 28:141–149, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20150
The continuous cooling transformation (CCT) as a flexible tool to investigate polymer crystallization under processing conditions
Authors: Brucato V. , Kiflie Z. , La Carrubba V. , Piccarolo S.
Published: September 2009

An experimental route for investigating polymer crystallization over a wide range of cooling rates (from 0.01 to 1000°C/s) and pressures (from 0.1 to 40 MPa) is illustrated, using a method that recalls the approach adopted in metallurgy for studying structure development in metals. Two types of experimental setup were used, namely an apparatus for fast cooling of thin films (100–200 μm thick) at various cooling rates under atmospheric pressure and a device (based on a on‐purpose modified injection molding machine) for quenching massive samples (about 1–2 cm3) under hydrostatic pressure fields. In both cases, ex situ characterization experiments were carried out to probe the resulting structure, using techniques such as density measurements and wide‐angle x‐ray diffraction (WAXD) patterns. The cooling mechanism and temperature distribution across the sample thickness were analyzed. Results show that the final structure is determined only by the imposed thermal history and pressure. Experimental results for isotactic polypropylene (iPP), poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), polyamide 6 (PA6), and syndiotactic polystyrene (sPS) are reported, showing the reliability of this experimental approach to assess not only quantitative information but also a qualitative description of the crystallization behavior of different classes of semicrystalline polymers. The present study gives an opportunity to evaluate how the combined effect of the cooling rate and pressure influences the crystallization kinetics for various classes of polymer of commercial interest. An increase in the cooling rate translates into a decrease in crystallinity and density, which both experience a sudden drop around the specific “crystallizability” (or “critical cooling rate”) of the material examined. The exception is sPS where competition among the various crystalline modifications determines a minimum in the plot of density vs. cooling rate. As for the effect of pressure, iPP exhibits a “negative dependence” of crystallization kinetics upon pressure, with a decrease of density and degree of crystallinity with increasing pressure, owing to kinetic constraints. PA6 and PET, on the other hand, due to thermodynamic factors resulting in an increase in Tm with pressure, exhibits a “positive dependence” of crystallization kinetics upon pressure. Finally, recent original results concerning sPS have shown that the minimum in the density vs. cooling rate curve shifts toward larger cooling rates upon increasing pressure. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 28:86–119, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20151
Irradiation synthesis of biopolymer‐based superabsorbent hydrogel: Optimization using the Taguchi method and investigation of its swelling behavior
Authors: Bardajee Ghasem R. , Pourjavadi Ali , Soleyman Rouhollah
Published: September 2009

In this report, the synthesis of a novel superabsorbent hydrogel via γ‐irradiation graft copolymerization of acrylamide onto sodium alginate and kappa‐carrageenan hybrid backbones in a homogeneous solution is described. The Taguchi method was used as a powerful experimental design tool for synthesis optimization. A series of superabsorbent hydrogels was synthesized by proposed conditions of Qualitek‐4 software. Considering the results of nine trials according to analysis of variance, optimum conditions were proposed. The swelling behavior of optimum superabsorbent hydrogels was studied in various solutions, with pH values ranging from 1 to 13. In addition, swelling kinetics, swelling in various organic solvents, the absorbency under load, and on–off switching behavior were investigated. Also, hydrogel formation was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Surface morphology of the synthesized hydrogels was assessed by scanning electron microscopy. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 28:131–140, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20154
Indispensable structure of solution additives to prevent inactivation of lysozyme for heating and refolding
Authors: Matsuoka Tsuneyoshi , Hamada Hiroyuki , Matsumoto Koji , Shiraki Kentaro
Published: September 2009

This article investigates solution additives that prevent misfolding of lysozyme from heating treatment and during refolding processes. Comparison of heat treatment of native lysozyme and oxidative refolding from the reduced and denatured state of lysozyme in the presence of 44 different additives revealed an indispensable chemical structure for the additives to be effective against heat‐induced misfolding and for refolding. The additives effective against heat treatment of native lysozyme possessed a main chain of the amino acid moiety. Amino acids that have esterificated and amidated carboxy groups prevented heat‐induced misfoldings more effectively than amino acids themselves. On the other hand, the additives effective against oxidative refolding possessed a guanidium or ureido group. The former additives prevented hydrophobic interaction between the main chains of the unfolded polypeptide, while the latter additives increased the solubility of the aromatic and aliphatic side‐chains. These data also support the fact that arginine (Arg) and Arg derivatives are versatile additives for both misfolding processes. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2009
Rediocides A and G as Potential Antitoxins Against Cobra Venom
Authors: Utsintong Maleeruk , Kaewnoi Atchara , Leelamanit Wichet , Olson Arthur J. , Vajragupta Opa
Published: September 2009

Rediocides A and G, the principle components of Trigonostemon reidioides (Kurz) Craib, which is known as Lotthanong in Thai, were investigated for a detoxification mechanism against Naja kaouthia venom by in silico, in vitro, and in vivo methods. Molecular dockings of α‐cobratoxin with rediocides A and G were performed, and the binding energies were found to be −14.17 and −14.14 kcal/mol, respectively. Rediocides bind to α‐cobratoxin at the same location as α‐cobratoxin binds to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR), i.e., at the Asp27, Phe29, Arg33, Gly34, Lys35, and Val37 residues. α‐Cobratoxin cannot bind to nAChR, because some of its binding sites are occupied with rediocides. From in vitro SDS‐PAGE, it was found that rediocides can diminish the bands of α‐cobratoxin. In the presence of acetylcholine‐binding protein (AChBP), it was apparent that rediocides can bind both α‐cobratoxin and AChBP. From an in vivo test, it was found that injection of rediocides at 0.5 mg/kg immediately after an α‐cobratoxin dose of three times LD50 cannot prolong the survival time of mice. However, rediocide can prolong the survival time, if it is injected 30 min before the injection of α‐cobratoxin. The in vitro SDS‐PAGE and the in vivo results support the in silico detoxification mechanism of rediocides against cobra venom at a molecular level.