bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TUNING THE SPLITTING BEHAVIOR OF LOW-VISCOUS FINGER IN BIFURCATING NETWORK BY SURFACE WETTABILITY
Authors: Singh Akhileshwar , Pandey Krishna Murari , Singh Yogesh
Published: May 2023

This article reports the splitting behavior of low-viscous fingers in a two-dimensional bifurcating network by varying the surface wettability of daughter and subdaughter branches. It assumes that perfluorodecalin displaces linearly to silicon oil in the bifurcating network. The displacement leads to unstable due to their viscosity gaps. Thus a low-viscous finger (LVF)-shaped instability appears on the interface. This study aims to tune the splitting dynamics of LVF by surface wettability of all six branches of the bifurcating network. Three wettability conditions are used-hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and superhydrophobic. The surface wettabilities of all six branches are organized into three pairs, represented by (θ1, θ2), (θ3, θ4), and (θ5, θ6). A series of numerical simulations is carried out by considering four unique wettability configurations of all three pairs, such as (θ1, θ2), (θ3, θ4), (θ5, θ6) ∈ [(78°, 78°); (78°, 118°); (78°, 150°); (150°, 150°)]. The results of the present investigation demonstrate that the LVF may be split either symmetrically or nonsymmetrically in the bifurcating network depending on the surface wettability of all three pairs. The symmetrical splitting behavior of LVF is found when the surface wettability of all three pairs is either hydrophilic (78°, 78°) or superhydrophobic (150°, 150°). In contrast, the nonsymmetrical splitting behavior of LVF is found when the surface wettability of all three pairs is a combination of hydrophilic and hydrophobic (78°, 118°) or hydrophilic and superhydrophobic (78°, 150°). The splitting ratio is found to be one for symmetrical splitting and less than one for nonsymmetrical splitting. The findings of this article will be useful in lung biomechanics and respiratory diseases.
Study on the quantitative relationship between diffusivity and pore structure parameters of cement pastes
Authors: Xie Liangyuan , Liu Lin , Tao Guanghui
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the influence of pore structure on the chloride diffusivity of cement pastes. A quantitative relationship between pore structure parameters (i.e. pore diameter, porosity, constrictivity and tortuosity) and the diffusivity of cement paste is established. Microstructures of different pore structure parameters were generated, and then their diffusivities were predicted by a three-dimensional lattice diffusivity model. It was found that the pore diameter has little effect on the chloride diffusivity of cement paste, and the chloride diffusivity is significantly affected by porosity, constrictivity and tortuosity. The diffusivity is proportional to the porosity, proportional to the second order polynomial of the constrictivity and inversely proportional to the square of the tortuosity. The proposed model can provide a fundamental understanding for improving the diffusivity of cement-based composite materials.
Legislative framework for public–private partnerships in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Wamuziri Sam
Published: May 2023

An effective regulatory framework is essential to attract international investment in infrastructure development and public services through public–private partnerships (PPPs). A transparent and predictable regulatory environment makes PPPs work in the long term, as this enables private sector participants to manage long-term risks in the most effective and efficient way. The legal framework for PPPs in Oman consists of four key pieces of legislation. The Foreign Capital Investment Law (Royal Decree 50/2019) outlines the procedures for application of an investment project licence and provides for investment incentives and guarantees to international investors. The Law of Privatization (Royal Decree 51/2019) provides a transparent framework for awarding of privatisation contracts. The Public Private Partnership Law (Royal Decree 52/2019) outlines the procedures for tendering and award of PPP projects and the essential elements of PPP contracts. The Bankruptcy Law in Oman (Royal Decree 53/2019) updates the law on corporate distress and introduces the concepts of corporate restructuring, preventative composition and bankruptcy-filing procedures. These four royal decrees are evaluated in this paper. The royal decrees promulgated in succession by the Sultanate of Oman bring privatisation and PPP policy in line with international best practice and constitute a central component of the nation’s strategy and supply side reforms to diversify the economy.
The intersection of phones and traffic lights: analysis of usage and contributing factors
Authors: Alagbé Jérémie Adjé , Xu Cheng , Wang Rujie , Jin Sheng
Published: May 2023

The use of mobile phones by drivers while stopped at red traffic lights represents a potential threat due to the cognitive residuals from recent phone use. This paper presents the results of a study that investigated the rates, strategies and activities of phone use in this situation using both video-based naturalistic and online questionnaire data. The significant influencing factors were analysed. It was found that about 37% of drivers used their phones at traffic lights and the majority (85%) of phone use was initiated at intersections, suggesting the relevance of phone use at traffic lights. The questionnaire data revealed that the main purposes of phone use at red lights are social media (32%), followed by text messaging (19%) and map navigation (13%), with the phone ringing, boredom and habit being the main reasons given for engaging in such activities. A logistic regression model identified waiting time, time of day, driver's age, vehicle category, vehicle value, age of driving licence and the presence of passengers as predictors for phone use. Policymakers and driver educators can find useful information in this paper to enforce laws and educate drivers to ensure safety and efficiency at signalised intersections, thus avoiding potential accidents.
Investigation of the geometry effect on air-demand ratio in conduits with a sluice gate
Authors: Aydin Alp Bugra , Baylar Ahmet , Ozkan Fahri , Tuna Muhammed Cihat , Ozturk Mualla
Published: May 2023

Gated conduits involve high-velocity air–water flow. When studies on gated conduits are examined, it is determined that the air-demand ratio changes according to the hydraulic and geometric parameters. However, no study has investigated the effect of the cross-sectional geometry of high-head conduits with a sluice gate on the air-demand ratio. In this study, the effect of conduit cross-sectional geometry on the air-demand ratio is examined. Results indicate that a conduit's cross-sectional geometry has an important effect on the air-demand ratio, especially at 10% and 15% gate opening rates. It is seen that the effect of the conduit geometry on the air-demand ratio decreases at 20%, and for greater gate opening rates. Moreover, a formula for estimated the air-demand ratio is presented, relating the air-demand ratio to the gate opening rate, Froude number, hydraulic radius and conduit length.
Outpatient Antibiotic Use is Not Associated with an Increased Risk of First-Time Symptomatic Kidney Stones
Authors: Thongprayoon Charat , Vaughan Lisa E. , Barreto Erin F. , Mehta Ramila A. , Koo Kevin , Schulte Phillip J. , Lieske John C. , Rule Andrew D.
Published: May 2023

Significance Statement

Antibiotics modify human microbiomes and may contribute to kidney stone risk. In a population-based case-control study using 1247 chart-validated first-time symptomatic kidney stone formers and 4024 age- and sex-matched controls, the risk of kidney stones was transiently higher during the first year after antibiotic use. However, this risk was no longer evident after adjustment for comorbidities and excluding participants with prior urinary symptoms. Findings were consistent across antibiotic classes and the number of antibiotic courses received. This suggests that antibiotics are not important risk factors of kidney stones. Rather, kidney stones when they initially cause urinary symptoms are under-recognized, resulting in antibiotic use before a formal diagnosis of kidney stones (i.e., reverse causality).

Background

Antibiotics modify gastrointestinal and urinary microbiomes, which may contribute to kidney stone formation. This study examined whether an increased risk of a first-time symptomatic kidney stone episode follows antibiotic use.

Methods

A population-based case-control study surveyed 1247 chart-validated first-time symptomatic kidney stone formers with a documented obstructing or passed stone (cases) in Olmsted County, Minnesota, from 2008 to 2013 and 4024 age- and sex-matched controls. All prescriptions for outpatient oral antibiotic use within 5 years before the onset of symptomatic stone for the cases and their matched controls were identified. Conditional logistic regression estimated the odds ratio (OR) of a first-time symptomatic kidney stone across time after antibiotic use. Analyses were also performed after excluding cases and controls with prior urinary tract infection or hematuria because urinary symptoms resulting in antibiotic prescription could have been warranted because of undiagnosed kidney stones.

Results

The risk of a symptomatic kidney stone was only increased during the 1-year period after antibiotic use (unadjusted OR, 1.31; P = 0.001), and this risk was attenuated after adjustment for comorbidities (OR, 1.16; P = 0.08). After excluding cases and controls with prior urinary symptoms, there was no increased risk of a symptomatic kidney stone during the 1-year period after antibiotic use (unadjusted OR, 1.04; P = 0.70). Findings were consistent across antibiotic classes and the number of antibiotic courses received.

Conclusions

The increased risk of a first-time symptomatic kidney stone with antibiotic use seems largely due to both comorbidities and prescription of antibiotics for urinary symptoms. Under-recognition of kidney stones that initially cause urinary symptoms resulting in antibiotic use may explain much of the perceived stone risk with antibiotics (i.e., reverse causality).
Qualitative Analysis of Psychological Framework of Online Classes during Covid-19 using NVIVO
Authors:   School of Advanced Sciences and Languages, VIT Bhopal University, Bhopal, V Bhatt , S Narula ,   Amity School of Communication, Amity University, Gwalior, DB Gupta ,   Schools of Advanced Sciences and Languages, VIT Bhopal University, Bhopal, S Sharma ,   Amity School of Communication, Amity University, Gwalior, D Sabharwal ,   Amity School of Communication, Amity University, Gwalior
Published: May 2023

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a study on whether or not online teachinglearning is a viable option for ensuring the quality of education in the future. The pandemic situation has brought major challenges to the educational institutions and institutions have to ensure that learning continues uninterrupted through virtual platforms using current technologies and tools. The theoretical framework for the survey is derived from secondary sources such as research papers, newspaper articles, and magazine articles on the topic. ProQuest and EBSCO were used for this. The study combines exploratory and descriptive methods. The paper shows that the future of the online education is not sustainable; it is just a situational arrangement and soon will be replaced by the old, traditional offline pattern, if the situation allows. Keywords— Attitude; Attitude toward Online Education; E-Learning Platform; Higher Education, Education Policy
A Innovative Simple Lab Facility to Teach High Speed Jet Characteristics to Aerospace Engineering Students
Authors:   Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research,Chennai-600064, N Rajamurugu , S Elangovan ,   Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research,Chennai-600064, M Sundararaj ,   Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research,Chennai-600064
Published: May 2023

Abstract : In a laboratory environment a c o m p r e h e n s i v e d i s c u s s i o n a b o u t t h e j e t characteristics where students can visualize the characteristics, pattern of the jet flow. A project-based learning approach is adopted to make students understanding better about the jet phenomenon. A novel experiment set up is established. Hydraulic analogy concept is adapted in the experimental procedures. A detailed time chart and critical examination of results are presented in this paper. The method of evaluation is presented with results. The discussed learning methodology seems to be very e ff e c t i v e a n d s i g n i f i c a n t l y i n c r e a s e s t h e understanding level. Keywords: Jets, Project Based Learning, Higher Level Competency, Project Study
Five Point Strategy to Augment Teaching-Learning Process
Authors:   Department of Electrical and Electronics, KLE Dr. M.S.Sheshgiri college of Engineering and Technology, Belagavi, Kulkarni Uma , Desai Ashwini ,   Department of Electronics and Communication, KLE Dr..M.S.Sheshgiri college of Engineering and Technology, Belagavi, Ingale Aditya ,   Department of Electronics and Communication, KLE Dr..M.S.Sheshgiri college of Engineering and Technology, Belagavi
Published: May 2023

Abstract:“Technology will not replace great teachers but technology in hands of great teachers can be a transformational”. Going by the tagline, it is true nothing can replace great teachers but the teaching learning practices can be enhanced to transfer the knowledge in a more effective way. The pandemic years demanded sudden change in the teaching concepts, teachers did adapt to it but with limited resources and time. We are all now aware and know that to change is to evolve. We must enhance the teaching learning methodologies in a structured way. In this paper we are proposing a five point strategy to augment the Teaching Learning (TL) process. The points are selected based on the inputs given by participants through a pre implementation survey conducted by us. The points were later used to teach t w o s u b j e c t s b o t h f r o m E l e c t r o n i c s a n d Communication and Electrical and Electronics disciplines. The improvement in the learning curve was motivating. Keywords: Cooperative learning (CL); Competency based learning (CBL); Flipped Class (FC); Teaching Learning (TL); Thinking based learning(TB)
Conducting Quantitative Research Study: A Step-by-Step Process
Authors:   Engineering Pathways, Gallogly College of Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman 73019
Published: May 2023

Abstract: In the recent past, engineering education research (EER) is gaining increasing acceptance and recognition globally. Specifically, EER is growing in India over the last decade. As EER is nascent in India, there is a need to understand the different research methods in EER such that appropriate methods are chosen while conducting EER-related activities. EER involves three methods: quantitative, qualitative, and mixed research methods. The purpose of this paper is to document in detail all the steps followed by specific examples in quantitative research methods when conducting EER. Quantitative research is a systematic investigation of a research topic under consideration by collecting quantifiable data and performing mathematical and statistical manipulations on the collected data to produce findings that add to the existing body of literature. In quantitative research studies, data is collected by sending out online polls, questionnaires, surveys, etc. Quantitative research methods are used to fundamentally quantify different aspects in research-related activities such as attitudes, beliefs, behaviours, opinions, etc. of the samples under study to provide meaningful conclusions with noteworthy implications. The different steps used in a quantitative research study typically include (1) focusing on your interests and finalizing the research topic, (2) framing research questions to be investigated, (3) conducting a thorough literature review, (4) choosing/creating an appropriate framework to guide the study (5) designing the research, (6) selecting the research site and research participants, (7) collecting data by sending out surveys, (8) analysing the collected data, (9) documenting important findings, and (10) publishing results. Quantitative research offers various advantages including reaching a higher sample size, quick data collection, the generalizability of the findings, etc. This paper will be of help to novice engineering education researchers as they can use this paper as a process document to guide themselves when conducting quantitative research projects. Keywords: engineering education research, novice researchers, quantitative research, statistical analysis, survey design
Best peer active learning strategies for problem solving using C programming
Authors:   Department of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Thiagarajar College of Engineering Madurai, India, R Saraswathi Meena , R Saranya ,   Department of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Thiagarajar College of Engineering Madurai, India, U Neeraja ,   Department of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Thiagarajar College of Engineering Madurai, India, K Senthil Shanmugam ,   Department of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Thiagarajar College of Engineering Madurai, India
Published: May 2023

Abstract :Peer learning is a process where one or more students teach other students and provides support throughout the learning process. Active learning is a process of learning concepts through thinking, discussing, investigating, and creating. In order to improve the learning of students in the concept of "problem solving using C programming," peer and active learning approaches are implemented by forming groups. The general four methods for peer active learning, such as think-pair-share, the zig-zag method, the coding test, and mini project, are chosen as activities for the students. An unsupervised machine learning algorithm is used to create clusters of students based on pretest and posttest scores. With the help of the K-Means clustering technique, the increased change in student performance after peer active learning approaches is clearly visible. Keywords : Peer Learning, Active learning, K-Means Clustering.
A star is drawn: Testing the culmination inferences of Russian perfective accomplishments
Authors: Kasher Natasha , Hacohen Aviya
Published: May 2023

It is a widely established view in the event-semantics literature that perfective (PFV) accomplishments denote culmination. It has also been increasingly recognized over the past decades that non- culminating interpretations of PFV accomplishments are more widely available than previously assumed. Hence, in many languages, the culmination inference carried by PFV accomplishments is defeasible.The Slavic PFV, on the other hand, has been consistently argued throughout the literature to enforce strict culmination requirements on telic accomplishments within its scope, such that non-culminating interpretations are entirely disallowed for such forms. Furthermore, in Slavic languages such as Russian, culmination is taken to be semantically entailed by PFV accomplishments, rather than defeasibly implicated. This is then used to explain the supposed contradiction created in (1), between the entailed culmination of the first clause, and its cancellation in the second clause.(1)      Masha s’ela                   buterbrod          (#no kusočeck      ostavila).            Masha PFV-ate-SG-F   sandwich-ACC    but piece.small   left.            ‘Masha ate the/a sandwich (#but left a small piece).’To our knowledge, there exists no prior attempt to systematically probe Russian speakers' actual judgments regarding this assumed contradiction. The current study aims to fill this gap.Results from a gradable acceptability judgment task reveal that Russian speakers do in fact exhibit some degree of tolerance when presented with PFV accomplishments as descriptions of partially completed events. Moreover, these speakers provide high acceptability ratings for sentences in which the PFV accomplishment is followed by a cancellation phrase.
TRANSMISSION MECHANISM BETWEEN CONSUMER AND PRODUCER PRICES IN FRAGİLE FIVE COUNTRIES: THRESHOLD COINTEGRATION AND ERROR CORRECTION
Authors: MERT Nilcan
Published: May 2023

This study focuses on examining the interrelationship between consumer and producer prices within the framework of the fragile five within the scope of asymmetric models. Considering the 2010:M1-2021:M8 period, TAR and M-TAR cointegration and error correction models were used in the study. The results of the analysis indicated that there was no asymmetrical relationship between CPI and PPI for Brazil and India, while it pointed to an asymmetric long-term relationship for South Africa, Indonesia, and Turkey. According to the asymmetric error correction estimation results, while no long-term asymmetric causality relationship could be found for Indonesia, South Africa and Turkey, it was determined for the short-term. According to this, there is a causal relationship from PPI to CPI for Indonesia, from CPI to PPI for South Africa, and bidirectional causality for Turkey. The differences in the transmission mechanism between the price indices of the fragile five countries reveal the differences in the internal dynamics of the countries.
Blended Learning after the Pandemic: The Flipped Classroom as an Alternative Learning Model for Elementary Classrooms
Authors: NURYADİN Asep , KARLİMAH Karlimah , LİDİNİLLAH Dindin Abdul Muiz , APRİANİ Ika Fitri
Published: May 2023

This study examines the suitability of implementing blended learning (BL), especially the flipped classroom (FC) model, for elementary classrooms after the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected through a survey involving 136 students and interviews with three teachers of a laboratory school in Indonesia. The data analysis results showed several key findings: (1) the number of students who liked BL (46.32%) was almost equal to those who did not like it (53.68%); (2) the percentage of students who responded positively to each of the five aspects of the FC model was higher than 50%, especially related to their preference of doing assignments in class with their teachers than at home (91.18%); (3) the students were digitally ready; (4) a few challenges faced by the teachers in implementing BL were related to utilising digital technology for teaching, developing students to become independent learners, and their workload (5) the teachers experienced various positive impacts of the model, including on the students’ understanding, achievement of learning goals, mathematics learning, development of students’ independent learning skills, teachers’ technological competencies, and parental support; (6) the teachers agreed that BL was suitable for education during the pandemic; and (7) the teachers believed that BL, especially the FC model, would be suitable for education after the pandemic. Therefore, it can be concluded that BL, particularly the FC model, can become an alternative learning model for elementary classrooms even after the pandemic.
Opportunities and Constraints for G20 Leadership in Data Governance: Is There a Chance for Convergence in Approaches?
Authors:   RANEPA, Larionova Marina , Shelepov Andrei ,   RANEPA
Published: May 2023

Data is an infinite resource, a new form of capital in the knowledge economy. In absence of data regulation, global technological corporations seek to expand their influence at each link in data chains and use their market power to build monopolies. Data can generate not only profits for tech giants but also social value; however, market forces by themselves will not create data-based public goods. For this, government actions are needed at the county level, and interstate and multilateral institutional cooperation is required at the international level. To date, despite numerous initiatives to establish coordination mechanisms and data regulation, cooperation on data governance is highly fragmented and gridlocked due to contradictions and tough competition between players. One of the key disagreements is related to the regulation of cross-border data flows. The article explores contradictions between the regulatory practices of the central actors in the digital economy, the U.S., the European Union (EU) and China in the first place, and the approaches they promote in international institutions such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Group of G20 (G20), the Group of 7 (G7), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). In particular, the authors look at the G20’s agenda on data governance and the initiative on free data flow with trust and consider its challenges and the risks of cooperation stagnation. The conclusion presents possible scenarios for future cooperation on data governance, their risks and perspectives, including the establishment of the Digital Economy and Data Governance Board by the G20, the G7’s initiative on shaping global digital order, deepening of cooperation on data governance within the G7 and the OECD, and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) proposal on building a multilevel, distributed polycentric data-governance model with the UN playing a central role. The authors conclude with a proposal on cooperation within BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) aimed at shaping inclusive multilateral data governance.
G20 at the Critical Juncture. Indonesia’s 2022 Presidency: Internal and External Shocks, Risks of Power Rebalancing and Eventual Demise, Causes of Resilience and Re-Equilibrium
Authors:   RANEPA, Larionova Marina
Published: May 2023

The 2022 Indonesian presidency was a critical juncture in the history of the Group of 20 (G20). Indonesia took over the presidency at a time when surging tensions between the U.S., China and Russiaimpeded concerted action by the G20 essential to secure sustainable and equitable recovery and long-term growth. Following the launch of the special military operation in Ukraine, the Group of 7 (G7) put immense pressure on the presidency to expel Russia from G20 activities. Emerging market countries wanted Russia to remain a member and regarded the pressure as an effort to enhance the G7’s dominance in the forum’s decision-making. Their choice was in favour of the G20, which can cooperate as an institute equally owned by emerging market and advanced countries, thus driving reform and restoring multilateralism. The G20 was deeply split. The presidency managed to save the agenda and ensured that the G20 remained a premier forum of cooperation between advanced and emerging economies in which the voice of the emerging economies at the negotiating table was strong and pluralism prevailed. This article analyses how the G20 survived the crisis activated by exogeneous and endogenous shocks in 2022 and whether and how it transformed in the course of this critical juncture. The article presents a qualitative case study of G20 dynamics in 2022, tracing interactions of the interdependent variables—actors, institutions, and agendas. The study applies a systemic process analysis and content analysis of the key actors’ narratives. The article starts with a review of the G20’s state-of play at the Indonesian presidency’s takeover from Italy and examines the new presidency’s agenda. It then outlines the main challenges the world and the G20 faced in early 2022, just before the eruption of the crisis. It goes on to explore the tensions within the G20, the roles played by the presidency, the G7, and the BRICS group formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The author focuses on the endeavor by Joko Widodo’s team to steer the G20 through the external pressures and internal confrontations, forge collective decisions on the presidency’s priorities, save the institution as a catalyst for global economic recovery, and advance an agenda that would respond to developing countries’ interests. It concludes by summing up variables affecting the G20’s performance and development in 2022 and the causes of its resilience.
Regional Features of Compliance with FATF Requirements
Authors:   Astrakhan State Technical University, Isakova Elsa , Tanyushcheva Nataliia ,   Astrakhan State Technical University
Published: May 2023

Increasingly expanding international requirements in the field of combating money laundering and terrorist financing (AML/CFT) force the public and financial sector to seek a balance between the rising costs of their implementation and sanctions threats for non-compliance. A number of scientific publications describe regional AML/CFT cooperation in the European Union (EU) as an example of such a balance. Some EU countries coordinate their actions within the framework of the Financial Action Tasks Force on Money Laundering (FATF), which is the methodological centre of the global anti-money laundering movement. Russia is a member of the FATF and its two regional groups: MONEYVAL, organized by the Council of Europe, and the Eurasian Group (EAG) initiated by Russia itself, which unites Russia's neighbouring, mainly Asian, countries. This study covers the results of assessments of compliance by EU and EAG countries with FATF requirements in order to study approaches to AML/CFT regional cooperation and to identify problems arising in this process and prospects for international cooperation. The methods of comparative and graphical analysis were used. The authors show that deep regional integration of lawmaking is not in itself a fundamental factor in achieving equally high rates of compliance with FATF requirements. Indifference to matters of monitoring compliance with approved regional anti-money laundering standards allows particular EU countries to act in the national interest, contrary to the 40 FATF recommendations and the goals of the global AML/CFT regime. On the contrary, the EAG countries demonstrate steady progress in the introduction of legislation and practical implementation of FATF requirements, which indicates their collective awareness of the benefits from financial information transparency and the possibility of exchanging this information at the international level.
Desalting of Peptides to Prepare for Mass Spectrometry Analysis v1
Authors: Naba Alexandra
Published: May 2023

Prior to proteomic analysis, peptide samples are desalted and eluted with freshly prepared 50% acetonitrile, 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid, followed by concentration in a vacuum concentrator. Peptides are then resuspended in freshly prepared 5% acetonitrile, 0.1% formic acid.
Neue methodische Untersuchungen zur Bestimmung von AFS63 (feine abfilt-rierbare Stoffe) in Verkehrsflächenabflüssen
Authors: Welker Antje , Huber Maximilian , Schäfer Christian
Published: May 2023

Feine abfiltrierbare Feststoffe (AFS63) sind ein neuer Parameter zur Bewertung von Niederschlagsabflüssen in Deutschland. Während die gesamten abfiltrierbaren Feststoffe (AFSges) gemäß DIN 38409-2 analysiert werden können, fehlt bisher eine genormte Methode zur AFS63-Bestimmung. Hierzu müssen methodenspezifische Einflussfaktoren auf die AFS63-Wiederfindung von Feststoffen, die in Verkehrsflächenabflüssen vorliegen, im Labor untersucht werden. In einem mehrstufigen Verfahren wurden Feststoffmaterialien in bekannter Korngrößenverteilung und Organikanteilen aus Straßenstäuben hergestellt und systematisch getestet. Hiermit wurden die Einflüsse verschiedener Filtermaterialien, Siebmethoden und Dispergiermethoden auf die AFSges- und AFS63-Bestimmung in Flüssigproben mit zudosierten Feststoffmaterialien untersucht. Anhand der Laborversuche wurde festgestellt, dass sowohl Glasfaser- als auch Membranfilter als Filtermaterialien geeignet sind. Drei Siebmethoden zur Abtrennung der groben Feststofffraktionen (AFSgrob) wurden getestet und Empfehlungen zur Anwendung formuliert. Je nach Dispergierung kommt es bei einigen Feststoffmaterialien zu Über- und Unterbefunden an AFS63, wobei die händische Methode „kräftig Schütteln“ die höchste Wiederfindungsrate hatte.
Auditing Road Maintenance Work Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors:   Civil Engineering Programme,Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Mohd Safie Aimi Nadira , Abdul Maulud Khairul Nizam ,   Smart and Sustainable Township Research Centre,  Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Jaafar Othman ,   Smart and Sustainable Township Research Centre,  Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Wan Mohd Jaafar Wan Shafrina ,   Earth Observation Centre, Institute of Climate Change, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Ab Rahman Abdul Aziz ,   Earth Observation Centre, Institute of Climate Change, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Arif Faiz ,   Earth Observation Centre, Institute of Climate Change, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Mukhlisin Muhammad ,   Department of Civil Engineering, Politeknik Negeri Semarang, JI. Prof. Sudarto, SH. Tembalang,  Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia
Published: May 2023

Road maintenance works performed by contractors require validation upon completion. Conventional methods are typically chosen to validate the works. Geographic Information System (GIS) is applied in this study to produce accurate data such that waste from road maintenance costs can be minimised. In this study, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) was used to observe the images of two roads, namely Jalan Gelanggang and Jalan Temuan, both of which are under maintenance at the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. The objectives of this study are; to determine the ability of UAV technology in supervision and verification of maintenance works, and the effectiveness of spatial works in road maintenance. This study then proceeds with analysing data by using ArcGIS and AutoCAD software to determine the width, perimeter, and area of the road that has been maintained. Comparisons were made between these two data which are the data that has been claimed and provided by the contractors (as-built data) and images data of the UAV whenever to get the percentage of the difference for several features of the road. Results from this study showed that the value for width, perimeter, and area of the as-built data for both roads are greater than the value of the image where the UAV data show percentage differences of shape area for Jalan Gelanggang is 3.27% and for perimeter is 1.35%. While percentage differences of shape area are for Jalan Temuan is 4.83% and for perimeter is 2.44%. Therefore, if UAV is used for work validation, the total saving on road maintenance work costs are saved at least RM 6,386.28 for Jalan Gelanggang and RM 5,775.24 for Jalan Temuan.
Engineering Properties and Impact Resistance of Kenaf and Rice Straw Fibres Reinforced Concrete
Authors:   Civil Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Abdul Mulok Muhammad Zulhamdi , Mohd Solong Amirul Anwar ,   Civil Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Wan Mat Ali Wan Nur Ain Nabila ,   Civil Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Hamid Roszilah ,   Smart and Sustainable Township Research Centre (SUTRA),  Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Kasmuri Mudiono ,   Program Sarjana Teknik Sipil, Universitas Bina Darma,  Jalan Jendral Ahmad Yani No. 3, 9/10 Ulu, Seberang, Kota Palembang, Sumatera Selatan 30264, Indonesia
Published: May 2023

Natural fibre reinforced concrete (NFRC) has been a subject of interest for research in the past few decades due to the many advantages of natural fibres such as abundantly available, lightweight, cheap, diverse and as reinforcement in composite, provide great energy absorption and good impact resistance to the composite. The purpose of this paper is to study the engineering properties (workability, compressive, flexural and split tensile strengths, and impact resistance of NFRC, particularly kenaf (K) and rice straw (RS) fibres. Both fibres are investigated to determine feasibility of using abundant waste (RS) instead of kenaf (planted) as natural fibre reinforcement in concrete for impact resistance application such as roof tiles. Samples consist of untreated kenaf and rice straw fibres, with different percentages by volume of cement (0, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4 and 5%), as concrete reinforcement. The slump, compressive, flexural, split tensile strengths, and impact resistance are determined in accordance to BS, ASTM and ACI codes of practice. Results show that, due to high rate of water absorption of rice straw fibre, reduction in workability and compressive strength of RSFRC can be observed compared to KFRC. Increasing the volume of RS fibre leads to high volumes of entrapped air after curing process, resulting in decrease of concrete strength. However, addition of both fibres as reinforcement, enhanced the flexural, split tensile and impact resistance of concrete at up to a certain volume fraction of fibres. The energy absorption of RAFRC at 2% is superior compared to other fibres, except only coir and exhibit better performance in resisting impact even though kenaf has superior properties compared to RA due to its higher ductility compared to kenaf.
Threshold Criteria of Sediment Motion for Biological Cohesive Sediment Mixture
Authors:   Civil Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia, Muhammad Azha Najwa Izzaty , Wan Mohtar Wan Hanna Melini ,   Smart and Sustainable Township Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
Published: May 2023

Shields diagram is used as the main source to determine the incipient motion of sediment. However, incipient sediment motion in the Shields diagram was developed based on non-cohesive sediment where the parameter influencing the motion of cohesive and non-cohesive sediments are different. Therefore, this study attempts to investigate the incipient sediment motion for biological extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) influenced by a cohesive sediment mixture. Percentage of silt with a median grain size of 28μm (which acts as the cohesive material) and fine sand with of 150μm were varied as 10:90, 20:80, 40:60, and 50:50, which formed the cohesive sediment mixture. Two different concentrations of EPS 0.02% (which denotes as low concentration) and 0.1% (as high concentration) were well mixed with the sediment mixture. This study utilised Xanthan gum, which acts as a substitution for EPS. The experiments were conducted in a laboratory flume and the threshold criterion for sediment motion was obtained through observation. The critical Shields parameter θ_c was calculated using the critical shear velocity and root-mean-square horizontal velocity (representing turbulent fluctuations) when few of the particles on the bed was observed to move. Obvious finding from this study is the presence of EPS clearly influence the threshold criteria based on the higher value obtained at sediment mixture with 0.1% compared to the values found for the 0.02% EPS sediment mixture. The values of the critical Shields parameter were monotonously increased as the percentage of silt in the sediment mixture increases. The presence of silt in the sediment mixture increases the sediment stability signifying more hydrodynamic forces are required for the particles to be entrained. The critical Shields parameter obtained based on the critical shear velocity and turbulent fluctuations posed similar trend as described in the well-established Shields curve indicating that the velocity scale used to describe the incipient sediment motion is not a decisive factor.
Prospects of constitution of the Ukrainian local church
Authors:   Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University, Zhytomyr, Ukraine, Kobetіak Andrii
Published: May 2023

The article analyzes the process of formation of the newly created Local Ukrainian Church at the present stage. Ukrainian church life is a dynamic process. The church is constantly moving forward and must respond to societal requests and problems. It is determined that the institutional design of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine takes place in a multi-religious environment. Therefore, the article predicts that today in Ukraine, there is no reason to talk about the United Church in the future. It has been established that the proclamation of the independence of the Ukrainian Church took place as a significant event of the last decade on a church-wide scale. Today, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine is on the path of universal recognition. The study found that over the past century, two diametrical concepts of understanding the structure of Ecumenical Orthodoxy have been formed. In particular, Fanar insisted and continues to insist on his own primacy and special status in the world church, and the reason for this is the canons of the Ecumenical Councils and the age-long tradition of Christianity of the Eastern rite. Instead, the Russian Orthodox Church declares the existence of Local Churches in the general system of Orthodoxy as a certain confederation of independent and fully autonomous entities. It has been proved that the future recognition of the newly formed Ukrainian Church by other Local Churches depends on the acceptance of the position of a certain party. It is determined within this study that the Ukrainian church issue is a kind of watershed in terms of the main controversial issues that have troubled the Ecumenical Church in recent centuries. Therefore, it has been proved that the settlement of the Ukrainian question is of great importance not only for the Orthodox believers of Ukraine, but also for the whole Orthodoxy. This sets a precedent for the currently unrecognized churches of Macedonia and Montenegro. The article claims that none of the Local Churches emerged in an independent status completely painlessly. Most countries that have received autocephaly in our time have been waiting for decades for world recognition of their own church. Therefore, the recognition of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine by only a part of the Local Churches is a natural process. It is established that autocephaly in modern conditions of society development and hybrid war is a vital condition for the country's survival. It has been studied that in modern conditions the Kyiv Church has received a great credit of trust in the eyes of the Ecumenical Patriarch. Today it is necessary to unite for the future recognition of the Ukrainian status by other Local Churches. The consolidated Kyiv metropolitanate may become the largest national Orthodox church in the world, which will significantly change the balance in the structure of the Universal Orthodoxy.
Automatic Indexing for Agriculture: Designing a Framework by Deploying Agrovoc, Agris and Annif
Authors: Ahmed Mustak
Published: May 2023

There are several ways to employ machine learning for automating subject indexing. One popular strategy is to utilize a supervised learning algorithm to train a model on a set of documents that have been manually indexed by subject matter using a standard vocabulary. The resulting model can then predict the subject of new and previously unseen documents by identifying patterns learned from the training data. To do this, the first step is to gather a large dataset of documents and manually assign each document a set of subject keywords/descriptors from a controlled vocabulary (e.g., from Agrovoc). Next, the dataset (obtained from Agris) can be divided into – i) a training dataset, and ii) a test dataset. The training dataset is used to train the model, while the test dataset is used to evaluate the model's performance. Machine learning can be a powerful tool for automating the process of subject indexing. This research is an attempt to apply Annif (http://annif. org/), an open-source AI/ML framework, to autogenerate subject keywords/descriptors for documentary resources in the domain of agriculture. The training dataset is obtained from Agris, which applies the Agrovoc thesaurus as a vocabulary tool (https://www.fao.org/agris/download).
Pengaruh Pemberian Bahan Organik Dan Kapur Terhadap Kapasitas Kerja Dan Efisiensi Traktor Pada Lahan Kering
Authors: Zulfakri Zulfakri , Fachruddin Fachruddin , Defrian Angga
Published: May 2023

Abstrak. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian bahan organik dan kapur berbagai dosis terhadap kapasitas kerja dan efisiensi traktor pada lahan kering. Penelitian ini menggunakan rancangan acak kelompok (RAK) faktorial yang terdiri dari 2 (dua) faktor yaitu bahan organik pada taraf 0, 6, dan 12 ton/ha sedangkan kapur pada taraf 0, 0,8 dan 1,6 ton/ha dengan 3 (tiga) kali pengulangan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Perlakuan bahan organik 12 ton/ha menghasilkan kapasitas lapang, efisiensi lebih tinggi serta slip roda dan kebisingan traktor yang lebih rendah dibandingkan dengan tanpa pemberian bahan organik.The Influence Of  Organic And Lime Materials On Working Capacity And Efficiency Of Tractors In Dry Land Abstract. This study aims to determine the effect of giving organic material and various doses of lime on the working capacity and efficiency of tractors on dry land. This study used a factorial randomized block design (RCBD) consisting of 2 (two) factors, namely organic matter at levels 0, 6, and 12 tons/ha while lime at levels 0, 0.8 and 1.6 tons/ha with 3 (three) repetitions. The results showed that the treatment of 12 tons/ha of organic material resulted in roomy capacity, higher efficiency and lower wheel slip and tractor noise compared to without the provision of organic material.
Efisiensi Teknologi Irigasi Sprinkler Di Lahan Kelompok Tani Kecamatan Tarakan Utara, Kota Tarakan
Authors: Sirait Sudirman , Santoso Dwi , Sari Nurnita , Hatta Sendi , Hendris Hendris
Published: May 2023

Abstrak. Pemberian air irigasi secara konvensional di lahan usaha tani menyebabkan penurunan nilai efisiensi air irigasi. Hal ini dapat mengakibatkan kehilangan air irigasi dan pemberian air irigasi yang tidak sesuai dengan kebutuhan tanaman. Penerapan teknologi irigasi sprinkler mampu meningkatkan efisiensi dan produktivitas air irigasi untuk memenuhi kebutuhan tanaman. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efisiensi penerapan teknologi irigasi sprinkler pada lahan pertanian di Kecamatan Tarakan Utara Kota Tarakan. Penelitian ini terdiri atas beberapa tahapan yaitu analisa tanah lahan percobaan, koefisiensi keseragaman (CU) irigasi sprinkler, distribusi keseragaman (DU) irigasi sprinkler, efisiensi penyimpanan (Es) dan efisiensi penggunaan (Eap) irigasi sprinkler. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa tanah lahan percobaan memiliki tekstur lempung berpasir. Efisiensi penerapan irigasi sprinkler tergolong dalam kondisi baik dengan nilai CU 89,18%, DU 82,79%, Es 75%, Eap 68%. The Efficiency Sprinkler Irrigation Technology On Agricultural Land In North Tarakan District, Tarakan CityAbstract. Provision of irrigation water conventionally on farmland. causes a decrease in the efficiency of irrigation water. This can result in loss of irrigation water and this is not suitable for crop needs. The application of sprinkler irrigation technology can increase irrigation efficiency and water productivity to meet plant needs. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of the application of sprinkler irrigation technology on agricultural land in North Tarakan District, Tarakan City. This research consisted of several stages, namely the soil analysis of experimental land, analysis of uniform coefficient (CU), analysis of the uniform distribution (DU), analysis of storage efficiency (Es), and efficiency of use (Eap). The results showed that the experimental land had a sandy loam texture. The efficiency of the application of sprinkler irrigation was in good condition with the value of CU 89.18%, DU 82.79%, Es 75%, and Eap 68%.