bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MFC-RMA (Matrix Factorization and Constraints- Role Mining Algorithm): An Optimized Role Mining Algorithm
Authors: Zhu Fubao , Yang Chenguang , Zhu Liang , Zuo Hongqiang , Gu Jingzhong
Published: August 2024

Role-based access control (RBAC) is a widely adopted access control model in various domains for defining security management. Role mining is closely related to role-based access control, as the latter employs role assignments to offer a flexible and scalable approach to managing permissions within an organization. The edge role mining problem (Edge RMP), a variant of the role mining problem (RMP), has long been recognized as an effective strategy for role assignment. Role mining, which groups users with similar access permissions into the same role, bears some resemblance to symmetry. Symmetry categorizes objects or graphics with identical characteristics into one group. Both involve a certain form of “classification” or “induction”. Edge-RMP reduces the associations between users and permissions, thereby lowering the security risks faced by the system. While an algorithm based on Boolean matrix factorization exists for this problem, it fails to further refine the resulting user–role assignment (UA) and role–permission assignment (PA) relationships. Additionally, this algorithm does not address constraint-related issues, such as cardinality constraints, user exclusion constraints, and user capabilities. Furthermore, it demonstrates significant redundancy of roles when handling large datasets, leaving room for further optimization of Edge-RMP results. To address these concerns, this paper proposes the MFC-RMA algorithm based on Boolean matrix factorization. The method achieves significant optimization of Edge-RMP results by handling relationships between roles possessing various permissions. Furthermore, this paper clusters, compresses, modifies, and optimizes the original data based on the similarity between users, ensuring its usability for role mining. Both theoretical and practical considerations are taken into account for different types of constraints, and algorithms are devised to reallocate roles incorporating these constraints, thereby generating UA and PA matrices. The proposed approach yields optimal numbers of generated roles and the sum of the minimum number of generated edges to address the aforementioned issues. Experimental results demonstrate that the algorithm reduces management overhead, provides efficient execution results, and ensures the accuracy of generated roles.
Superpixels with Content-Awareness via a Two-Stage Generation Framework
Authors: Li Cheng , Liao Nannan , Huang Zhe , Bian He , Zhang Zhe , Ren Long
Published: August 2024

The superpixel usually serves as a region-level feature in various image processing tasks, and is known for segmentation accuracy, spatial compactness and running efficiency. However, since these properties are intrinsically incompatible, there is still a compromise within the overall performance of existing superpixel algorithms. In this work, the property constraint in superpixels is relaxed by in-depth understanding of the image content, and a novel two-stage superpixel generation framework is proposed to produce content-aware superpixels. In the global processing stage, a diffusion-based online average clustering framework is introduced to efficiently aggregate image pixels into multiple superpixel candidates according to color and spatial information. During this process, a centroid relocation strategy is established to dynamically guide the region updating. According to the area feature in manifold space, several superpixel centroids are then split or merged to optimize the regional representation of image content. Subsequently, local updating is adopted on pixels in those superpixel regions to further improve the performance. As a result, the dynamic centroid relocating strategy offers online averaging clustering the property of content awareness through coarse-to-fine label updating. Extensive experiments verify that the produced superpixels achieve desirable and comprehensive performance on boundary adherence, visual satisfactory and time consumption. The quantitative results are on par with existing state-of-the-art algorithms in terms with several common property metrics.
Antiviral Agents for Preventing Cytomegalovirus Disease in Recipients of Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Authors: Jaing Tang-Her , Wang Yi-Lun , Chiu Chia-Chi
Published: August 2024

This systematic review discusses the use of prophylaxis to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in recipients who have undergone hematopoietic cell transplantation. It highlights the need for new approaches to control and prevent CMV infection. The approval of the anti-CMV drug letermovir has made antiviral prophylaxis more popular. CMV-specific T cell-mediated immunity tests are effective in identifying patients who have undergone immune reconstitution and predicting disease progression. Maribavir (MBV) has been approved for the treatment of post-transplant CMV infection/disease in adolescents. Adoptive T-cell therapy and the PepVax CMV vaccine show promise in tackling refractory and resistant CMV. However, the effectiveness of PepVax in reducing CMV viremia/disease was not demonstrated in a phase II trial. Cell-mediated immunity assays are valuable for personalized management plans, but more interventional studies are needed. MBV and adoptive T-cell therapy are promising treatments, and trials for CMV vaccines are ongoing.
First Report on Detection and Molecular Characterization of Astroviruses in Mongooses
Authors: Kulberg Jessica L. , Becker Anne A. M. J. , Malik Yashpal S. , Ghosh Souvik
Published: August 2024

Applying a pan-astrovirus (AstV) RT-hemi-nested PCR assay, we report here high detection rates (28.3%, 15/53) of AstVs in the small Indian mongoose (Urva auropunctata) on the Caribbean Island of St. Kitts. Based on deduced amino acid (aa) identities and phylogenetic analysis of long RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) sequences (~315 aa, partial RdRp), the AstVs detected in the mongooses (designated as Mon-AstVs) were classified into two distinct groups (deduced aa identities of 66.45–67.30% between the groups). The putative RdRps of the Mon-AstVs shared low deduced aa identities with those of AstVs from other host species (<69%, <54%, and <50% identities with reptilian/amphibian AstVs, avastroviruses, and mamastroviruses, respectively). Phylogenetically, the group-I and group-II Mon-AstVs formed two distinct clusters, near the cluster of reptilian/amphibian AstVs, and were distantly related to avastroviruses and mamastroviruses. Since the mongooses were apparently healthy during sampling, we could not establish if the Mon-AstVs infected the animal or were of dietary origin. Although we could not ascertain the true host of the Mon-AstVs, phylogenetic analysis indicated that these viruses might have originated from lower vertebrates. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the detection and molecular characterization of AstVs in mongooses, highlighting the wide host range and significant genetic diversity within the family Astroviridae.
Mapping the Implementation Determinants of Second Dose Measles Vaccination in the World Health Organization African Region: A Rapid Review
Authors: Adamu Abdu A. , Jalo Rabiu I. , Masresha Balcha G. , Ndwandwe Duduzile , Wiysonge Charles S.
Published: August 2024

The second dose of measles-containing vaccines (MCV2) has significant programmatic relevance in the current immunisation landscape because it serves as both an opportunity to reduce measles immunity gaps and strengthen second year of life vaccination platforms. However, MCV2 coverage remains suboptimal across countries in the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region and this puts a significant number of children at risk of morbidity and mortality from measles despite the availability of an effective vaccine. There is an urgent need to strengthen the implementation of MCV2 but this requires a thorough and systematic understanding of contextual factors that influence it. The literature that describes the determinants of implementation of MCV2 in a manner that adequately accounts for the complexity of the implementation context is scarce. Therefore, the purpose of this rapid review was to explore the implementation determinants of MCV2 in the WHO African Region using systems thinking. Literature search in two databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) were conducted. After screening, a total of 17 eligible articles were included in the study. Thematic analysis of extracted data was performed to identify the implementation determinants, after which they were mapped using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). A causal loop diagram (CLD) was used to illustrate the linkages between identified determinants. We found 44 implementation determinants across the five CFIR domains, i.e., innovation, outer setting, inner setting, individual, and implementation process. The majority of identified determinants are within the individual domain followed by the inner setting domain. The CLD showed that multiple contingent connections and feedback relationships exist between the identified implementation determinants within and across CFIR domains. The linkages between the implementation determinants revealed three balancing and reinforcing loops each. The findings suggest that implementation determinants of second-dose measles vaccination in the WHO African Region are complex, with multiple interconnections and interdependencies, and this insight should guide subsequent policies. There is an urgent need for further implementation research with embedded CLD in specific settings to inform the design of tailored systemic strategies to improve the implementation effectiveness of MCV2.
Impact of Spur Dike Placement on Flow Dynamics in Curved River Channels: A CFD Study on Pick Angle and River-Width-Narrowing Rate
Authors: Liu Dandan , Lv Suiju , Li Chunguang
Published: August 2024

The long-term effects of the centrifugal force of water flow in a curved river channel result in the scouring of the concave bank and the silting of the convex bank. This phenomenon significantly impacts the stability of bank slopes and the surrounding ecological environment. A common hydraulic structure, the spur dike, is extensively employed in river training and bank protection. Focusing on a 180° bend flume as the research subject, this study examines the effects of spur dike placement on the concave bank side of the bend. To this end, a second-order accurate computational format in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the RNG k-ε turbulence model were employed. Specifically, the influence mechanism of the pick angle and the river-width-narrowing rate on the flow dynamics and eddy structures within the bend were investigated. The results indicated that both the river-width-narrowing rate and pick angle significantly influence the flow structure of the bend, with the pick angle being the more dominant factor. The vortex scale generated by a positive pick angle of the spur dike is the largest, while upward and downward pick angles produce smaller vortex scales. Both upward and positive pick angles have larger areas of influence, and the maximum value of turbulent kinetic energy occurs at the back of the secondary spur dike. In contrast, the downward pick angle has a smaller area of influence for turbulent kinetic energy, resulting in a smaller vortex at the back of the spur dike and leading to smoother water flow overall. In river-training and bank-protection projects, the selection of the spur dike angle is crucial for controlling scour risk. The findings provide valuable insights for engineering design and construction activities.
Evaluation of Ecosystem Protection and Restoration Effects Based on the Mountain-River-Forest-Field-Lake-Grass Community Concept: A Case Study of the Hunjiang River Basin in Jilin Province, China
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Yu
Published: August 2024

The protection and restoration projects of the mountain-river-forest-field-lake-grass (MRFFLG) system are the mainstream focus of China’s current ecological environment protection. A reasonable method for calculating ecosystem service values (ESVs) is a prerequisite for determining the ecological service functions of a watershed. However, how to effectively implement and evaluate the systematic nature of the ecological protection and restoration of the MRFFLG system remains one of the pressing issues. This paper takes the protection and restoration project of the MRFFLG system in the Hunjiang River Basin (HRB) of Jilin Province, China, as an empirical case. Firstly, it constructs an ESVs system to quantify the comprehensive ecological protection and restoration effects of the MRFFLG system. The results show that the forest ecosystem in the HRB has the highest ecological value. Furthermore, by introducing the interval planning method, an uncertain optimization model is constructed with the objective function of maximizing the ecosystem service value of the HRB, and constraints such as restoration costs, unit restoration price, and restoration area. The results show that the total ESVs has increased, with a maximum increase of 348,413.79 × 104 CNY. Finally, the introduction of the fuzzy method reduced the total interval of ESVs by 49.89%, effectively shortening the assessment interval. This study applies the interval-fuzzy method to the protection and restoration projects of the MRFFLG system, effectively measuring the comprehensive management effects of the MRFFLG system in the HRB. This paper provides a theoretical basis for the development of subsequent MRFFLG projects and offers theoretical references for promoting the ecological environment assessment of the comprehensive MRFFLG system.
Rigid Vegetation Affects Slope Flow Velocity
Authors: Cai Zekang , Xie Jiabo , Chen Yuchi , Yang Yushuo , Wang Chenfeng , Wang Jian
Published: August 2024

The mean slope flow velocity is critical in soil erosion models but the mechanism of its variation under rigid vegetation cover remains unclear. On natural slopes, vegetation grows predominantly perpendicular to the horizontal plane (BH), with some growing perpendicularly to the slope surface (BS); however, current research often neglects the effects of these two growth directions on the mean flow velocity. We conducted simulation experiments using different coverage levels, rigid vegetation, slope angles, and flow rates and showed that the flow rate and slope significantly influenced the mean flow velocity. As the coverage of rigid vegetation increased, the mean flow velocity increased more under conditions perpendicular to the horizontal plane (BH) and those perpendicular to the slope (BS). A model for predicting mean flow velocity was developed using vegetation equivalent roughness and the Manning formula, which accurately predicted flow velocity in different conditions. This study contributes to the refinement of slope flow theory and provides data that support soil and water conservation efforts.
THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF TEACHING THE COURSE "BIOMECHANICS" IN THE TRAINING SYSTEM OF STUDENTS AT THE FACULTIES OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS OF TEACHING INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: SHAPARENKO I.
Published: August 2024

The article deals with theoretical and methodological bases of  teaching  optional course «Biomechanics»  for students of  the  Faculty   of   Physical   Education and   sports   of Poltava V.G.   Korolenko National   Pedagogical University. The goal, objectives of the course, the list of professional competencies and skills which are obligatory after the completion of the course are defined.  The  components  of  educational-methodical  complex of  the  subject  was  determined: training and content syllabus, supporting lecture notes with questions for self-instructional training, materials for practical classes and independent work, tests for current and module control of students knowledge, final tests.
The system of training highly qualified specialists provides classroom (lectures and practical classes) and  independent work. In order to promote research activities a master student has 2/3 from all kind of training time. According to the educational subject syllabus the teacher  suggested  the  following  ways  of  evaluation  of  educational  achievements of bachelor students as current, modular, final control. Current knowledge assessment and control module are performed in the forms of different tests.
The final assessment consists of all points earned during the current testing and modul controls, as well as the performance of individual work. Overall evaluation of bachelor students success is rating and is set by 100-scale system     and totraditional scale accepted in Ukraine. A range of points that students may get for the topics of content moduleswere given.
Effectiveness of safety-netting approaches for acutely ill children: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Burvenich Ruben , Bos David AG , Lowie Lien , Peeters Kiyano , Toelen Jaan , Wynants Laure , Verbakel Jan Y
Published: August 2024

Background

Safety-netting advice (SNA) can help in the management of acutely ill children.

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of different SNA methods on antibiotic prescription and consumption in acutely ill children.

Design and setting

Systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials, cluster randomised trials, non-randomised studies of interventions, and controlled before–after studies in ambulatory care in high-income countries.

Method

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched (22 January 2024). Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with Cochrane’s RoB 2 tool, the Revised Cochrane Tool for Cluster-Randomised Trials, and the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies — of Interventions tool. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis approach. Sensitivity analyses and network meta-regression were performed.

Results

In total, 30 studies (20 interventions) were included. Compared with usual care, paper SNA may reduce: antibiotic prescribing (odds ratio [OR] 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.53 to 0.82,I2= 92%, very low certainty, three studies, 35 988 participants), especially when combined with oral SNA (OR 0.40, 95% CI = 0.08 to 2.00,P-score = 0.86); antibiotic consumption (OR 0.39, 95% CI = 0.27 to 0.58, low RoB, one study, 509 participants); and return visits (OR 0.74, 95% CI = 0.63 to 0.87). Compared with usual care, video SNA, read-only websites, oral SNA, and web-based SNA (in descending order of effectiveness) may increase parental knowledge (ORs 2.33–4.52), while paper SNA may not (ORs 1.18–1.62). Similarly, compared with usual care, video SNA and web-based modules may improve parental satisfaction (ORs 1.94–4.08), while paper SNA may not (OR 1.85, 95% CI = 0.48 to 7.08).

Conclusion

Paper SNA (with oral SNA) may reduce antibiotic use and return visits. Video, oral, and online SNA may improve parental knowledge, whereas video SNA and web-based modules may increase parental satisfaction.
Herbivory on aquatic macrophytes by geese and swans—a review of methods, effects, and management
Authors: Kjeller Elsie , Waldenström Jonas , Elmberg Johan , Gunnarsson Gunnar
Published: August 2024

In recent decades, interest has grown in how increasing populations of herbivorous geese and swans (Anseriformes: Anatidae: Anserinae) affect macrophyte communities in wetlands, especially because many waterbodies are simultaneously subjected to stressors like eutrophication and biodiversity declines. Here, we review the literature on methods applied in grazing experiments that have been conducted in aquatic ecosystems. We also investigate and how different macrophyte characteristics may respond to waterfowl herbivory. Results indicate that both research methodology and responses of macrophytes differ widely among studies. While most experimental studies on grazing pressure employ a ‘paired plot design’ with exclosures and open control plots, the structure, size, and placement of plots vary among studies. Commonly sampled macrophyte variables are biomass (of either above- or below-ground plant parts), density, height, plant cover, and community composition. The literature provides support that geese and swans significantly affect several of these variables, but the outcome depends on additional factors, e.g., waterfowl density, water depth, and timing (within or between seasons/years). Because of the persisting conservation threats to aquatic ecosystems, more knowledge is needed about potential direct and indirect consequences of waterfowl herbivory in these environments.
SISTEM AKUNTANSI PENGELUARAN KAS PADA PT PRATAMA MITRA SEJATI JAKARTA
Authors: Maria Evy Purwitasari  , Novita Eliza
Published: August 2024

A company implements an internal control system to support running its business. The application of the accounting system is applied according to the situation faced in assisting the company in providing the data and information needed by management in making decisions, carrying out supervision and operating the company efficiently.  One system that requires extra supervision is cash.  Cash requires special attention, because it is easily transferable and ownership cannot be proven, therefore internal control over cash disbursements is required. The formulation of the problem put forward in this paper is about the accounting system for cash disbursements at PT Pratama Mitra Sejati Jakarta. This research aims to determine the accounting information system, especially the existing cash receipts system of PT. Pratama Mitra Sejati Jakarta with the company's theory and SOP. This research uses qualitative research using data collection techniques and literature and field studies by means of observation and interviews.  The results of the research carried out can be concluded that PT. Pratama Mitra Sejati Jakarta has a fairly good Cash Disbursement Accounting System.
Natural Flavonoid-Derived Enzyme Mimics DHKNase Balance the Two-Edged Reactive Oxygen Species Function for Wound Healing and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Therapy
Authors: Feng Guangfu , Zhang Huaizu , Liu Huipeng , Zhang Xiaoyan , Jiang Hongmei , Liao Sijie , Luo Xingyu , Yao Hao , Xiang Bo , Liu Shiyu , Zhang Jiali , Zhang Jiaheng , Fang Jun
Published: August 2024

Rational regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a vital importance in maintaining homeostasis of living biological systems. For ROS-related pathologies, chemotherapy technology derived from metal nanomaterials currently occupies a pivotal position. However, they suffer from inherent issues such as complicated synthesis, batch-to-batch variability, high cost, and potential biological toxicity caused by metal elements. Here, we reported for the first time that dual-action 3,5-dihydroxy-1-ketonaphthalene-structured small-molecule enzyme imitator (DHKNase) exhibited 2-edged ROS regulation, catering to the execution of physiology-beneficial ROS destiny among diverse pathologies in living systems. Based on this, DHKNase is validated to enable remarkable therapeutic effects in 2 classic disease models, including the pathogen-infected wound-healing model and the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-caused inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This work provides a guiding landmark for developing novel natural small-molecule enzyme imitator and significantly expands their application potential in the biomedical field.
Two New Species of Lauraceae from Ecuador and Peru
Authors: Van der Werff Henk
Published: August 2024

Two new species of Lauraceae from Ecuador and Peru are described. Andea ferruginea van der Werff resembles A. kolera (van der Werff) van der Werff but differs in the color of the indumenta and the raised tertiary venation on the lower leaf surface. Ocotea pterocaulis van der Werff differs from all other species of Ocotea Aubl. by the combination of hermaphroditic flowers and winged stems.
The Application Of Social Marketing In Reducing Binge Drinking Among Female College Students: An Investigation Of A Third Level College In Cork
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Murphy Fergus
Published: August 2024

"Ireland has one of the highest levels of alcohol consumption in the EU, consuming 10.6 litres of pure alcohol per person in 2003, increasing to 13.4 litres in 2006. This rise in consumption has led to increases in alcohol-related harm and disease, and has resulted in more than 1,775 deaths according to the Health Research Board (Mongan et al., 2007). In general, increases in overall consumption are accompanied by a greater incidence of health and social problems. In addition to the high volume of alcohol consumed by people in Ireland, drinking occasions appear to be strongly related to heavy episodic or “binge” drinking patterns. Binge drinking is defined as drinking five or more drinks in a row for men and four or more drinks in a row for women, at least once in the previous two weeks. A recent international study of drinking among university students in 21 countries found that Ireland has the highest proportion of both male and female heavy and binge drinkers (Dantzer et al., 2006). In the study, 49% of Irish third level males and 57% of Irish third level females were classified as heavy drinkers. Women metabolise alcohol differently from men and have higher blood alcohol concentrations for a given volume of alcohol consumed. Therefore, the risks associated with alcohol are amplified for women. With regard to overall health effects, it is important to note that women are at increased risk from alcohol use because they need less alcohol per kilogram of body weight than men, to attain the same peak blood alcohol level and level of impairment. The current author’s research is of an investigative nature and sets out to analyse the application of social marketing in reducing binge drinking among female college students. Through the use of focus groups, the students interviewed assessed various physical and social threat appeals. These focus groups revealed that physical threat appeals are more effective than social threat appeals at ultimately reducing binge drinking among female college students. Appeals focusing on sexual assault and rape proved to be the most effective. In conclusion, it was found that social marketing messages in Ireland need to be more shocking and informative if the levels of binge drinking are ultimately going to be reduced among this target group."
Molecular Characterization Of Gastroenteritis Viruses Among Equines And Porcines In Southern Ireland From 2005-2007.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Collins P.
Published: August 2024

Rotaviruses are a major cause of gastroenteritis in humans and animals. To date, seven serogroups (A to G) of rotavirus have been determined. Group A Rotaviruses (GARVs) are enteric pathogens, causing acute watery dehydrating diarrhea in various host species, including birds and mammals. Rotaviruses account for ~611,000 child deaths each year, mainly in developing countries. Likewise, rotavirus-associated enteritis is a major problem in young calves, weaning and post-weaning piglets and foals. Vaccines against the most important serologic group of rotaviruses (GARVs) are available for the prevention of rotavirus diseases in cows and horses, and, more recently, they have been made available for the prevention of rotavirus disease in infants and young children. Group B rotaviruses were linked to an outbreak of water-borne gastroenteritis in China and have been identified from sporadic cases of infantile diarrhea outside China. Group C rotaviruses are also important human enteric pathogens and have also been detected in a variety of mammalian species, including pigs. Group C rotaviruses have been identified in piglets with diarrhoea, but their ecology remains to be elucidated. Caliciviruses are also an important cause of gastroenteritis in humans and animals. Molecular analysis of the polymerase and capsid genes of porcine caliciviruses, sapoviruses (SaVs) and noroviruses (NoVs), has demonstrated a broad range of genetic diversity, but information on their epidemiology and pathogenic role in pigs is limited.
Novel Neuroevolution Techniques For The Life Science Domain
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Manning Timothy
Published: August 2024

The life science domain is a high value research area, both in terms of the benefits in increased knowledge and in societal impact. Much of the research funding has focused on wet lab based approaches to increase visibility into biological processes and producing maximal relevant information on which to make decisions. Given the complexity of biological functions, in many cases this has led to an information overload. Researchers are now able to routinely generate and access petabytes of data as a result of high throughput experiments, and this capability is growing. This data can be difficult to interpret and intractable for manual evaluation, proffering the need for powerful and accurate bioinformatics tools so that researchers and practitioners can actually make use of the information being generated in a practical sense. Artificial Neural Networks are a machine learning approach which has gained much traction in the field of bioinformatics, as they offer the required high throughput processing for large datasets, while providing powerful generalization, fault tolerance, and robustness to noise, making them appealing for application to life science problems. Major contributions of this thesis include literature reviews that demonstrate the use, effectiveness and limitations of key machine learning technologies in life science, and the development of two novel neuroevolution approaches (MFF-NEAT and RBF-CGP-ANN) which were developed recognizing needs of life sciences, and addressing issues inherent in the application of artificial neural networks to bioinformatics problems. Comprehensive experiments were conducted to gauge the effectiveness of these new tools on life science problems, including breast cancer diagnosis, heart disease, mass spectral datasets, and determining the specificity of HIV-1 protease. The results achieved are discussed, and it is demonstrated that these new tools have the potential to outperform more typical ANN based approaches on specific tasks.
An Investigation On The Dynamic Behavior Of An Overhead Valve Actuating Mechanism
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Noonan Michael
Published: August 2024

This project involves the measurement and simulation of the dynamic performance of a pushrod valvetrain, in particular that of the outer valve spring. The engine was donated by S&S Cycle Wisconsin. A motoring test rig was constructed to obtain high speed camera footage of the spring coils motion. Individual static spring coil displacement measurements were taken, and their stiffness studied. Spring and pushrod natural resonant frequencies were measured. All data acquisition and analysis was carried out with Labview programs written during the project. Programs were written to model individual static coil stiffness using the close coil, open coil, and theories by Wu and Hsu [16]. Both linear and lumped parameter models were written to model the springs dynamic performance. The entire valvetrains dynamic performance was modelled in 4stHEAD, which is a software suite produced by Prof Blair and Associates [4]. The spring stiffness, spring frequency, and coil stiffness results are examined in detail with measurements, 4stHEAD simulation results, and results from the author’s programs where applicable. An in depth analysis of the 4stHEAD simulated dynamic valve lift, with particular emphasis on damping constants was carried out. The dynamic coil displacement, from measured results, 4stHEAD simulated results and results from the authors programs are examined in detail, with particular emphases on transient vibration amplitude and frequency. The possibility of carrying out further work is discussed.
Participation And Determinants Of Physical Activity Amongst Irish 3rd Level Students.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Lerner Jonathan
Published: August 2024

"Currently, there is a dearth of research investigating physical activity patterns among Irish third level young adults (17-22 year olds). Both national and international research report that levels of physical activity decline in adolescence, this trend being most pronounced among females. Various biological, psychological, social, and environmental determinants have been found to influence physical activity; however, specific factors associated with the decline in activity during adolescence remain largely unknown. This research study examines participation and determinants of physical activity among Irish third level students. A “National questionnaire” was administered to a sample of 532 students from Health Education Authority (HEA) recognized third level institutes aimed at representing student physical activity throughout a wide geographical area in the Republic of Ireland. The sample was stratified by types of HEA colleges (e.g. Universities, Institutes of Technology, Other HEA recognized Institutions) and by Departments (e.g. Business, Science, Social Science, Engineering, Humanities). This questionnaire aimed to examine participation and determinants of physical activity among third level students. In conjunction, interviews (n=16) were carried out to further explore the factors promoting or inhibiting attitudes towards and engagement in physical activity. It was found that 37.8% of students participated in regular organized physical activity / sport, while 66.5% engaged in unorganized physical activity. Males reported participating in significantly more organized physical activity / sport (m= 57.8%, f= 21.5%\ p< .001), while females participated more in unorganized physical activity (f= 74%, m= 56.8%; p< .001). Intrinsic motivation factors, such as fun / enjoyment; fitness; competition; and interest, were found to be primary determinants of physical activity. Based on the findings of the National survey and the interview study, in conjunction with Prochaska and Diclemente’s (1984) trans-theoretical model of behavioural change, a Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) study (n= 238) was undertaken. This study used a questionnaire to investigate influences of and opportunities for physical activity within CIT amongst first year students. Since beginning in CIT, 31% of participants increased levels of physical activity, 21% were found to decrease participation, while almost half (46%) remained the same. Peer support was found to be a key factor in joining and maintaining physical activity; therefore, should be incorporated into physical activity promotional programs in third level."
Sitting With Nellie; Mentoring Relationships In The Office Of The Revenue Commissioners
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Healy Kieran
Published: August 2024

Mentoring is a powerful HRD tool that has been shown to have a positive impact on career development and play a significant role in the psychosocial support of employees in the workplace. There is no definitive definition of mentoring or a clear concise methodology of how it works but it does work and has been shown to do so time and time again in a multitude of settings and organisations. Mentoring in Revenue is a mixture of the formal and informal and supports training courses and on the job training in equal measure. This dissertation will focus on mentoring in an overarching way without focusing on one specific element or application of mentoring in Revenue. Traditionally mentoring in Revenue has been affectionately known as “Sitting with Nellie" and one of the aims of this research is to determine if the practise continues to this day. The theoretical literature available on mentoring was analysed to generate a semi- structured interview questionnaire. The interviews in turn were analyse to produce a survey which was sent to all employees in Revenue. A response rate of 32% was achieved and this has generated a pool of rich data dealing with many aspects of mentoring as it is utilised in Revenue. The findings of the research were used to make recommendations for practise and the potential for future research stemming for this dissertation was also highlighted.
An Investigation Into The Obstacles And Barriers Preventing Farmers In Rural Areas Using Information Communication Technologies
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, O'Leary David
Published: August 2024

Technology and in particular, mobile devices can help farmers both from a social and business perspective. This study focuses on the areas preventing farmers using smart phones and the downfalls they might be facing on a regular basis in the adoption of mobile devices. The objectives of this study were to identify what devices are being used and for what purpose, identify who helps the farmer when they are in difficulty with their device, identify if broadband is an obstacle and to develop a set of recommendations based on my research for the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) within the farming community. The methods of research used to obtain the data was a survey with farmers and three focus groups. One focus group was with industry professionals, one focus group with farmers and one focus group with agricultural students. This research was completed between September 2015 and June 2017. This study highlights barriers preventing farmers using mobile devices. There are several barriers that prevent different farmers adopting technology for example; nobody at home to show them how to use the mobile device, lack of quality broadband, fear of using the technology, that all data might be lost and the security of the farmers information. There are many benefits associated with the use of mobile devices that are highlighted throughout this study such as communication outside the home and saving time doing paperwork by completing tasks online such as online banking. Farmers can also view and purchase farm supplies online and monitor weather forecasts through smartphones on the go.
Little To Large: Critical Success Factors & Implications For Sme's In Kerry And Rural Ireland.
Authors:   ,   Institute of Technology Tralee, Foley Noelle
Published: August 2024

This research is unique in that it profiles the growth trajectories of three global knowledge based companies in rural Ireland. The chosen companies were start-up small businesses that became international global leaders in their selected fields. The selected companies range from different industries but share similar growth trajectories and factors which have enabled high growth. There was a gap in research regarding the growth factors which have allowed small to medium-sized enterprises develop into large corporations. This study took an in-depth look at how each company has managed the vital factors in their growth transition in the hope of applying lessons to be learnt to small businesses with high growth potential. After a comprehensive literature review, a realist paradigm was chosen as the main basis for the research. The approach used was that of three case studies, with methods including sampling, qualitative and qualitative data, primary & secondary research along with tools including documentary analysis, in-depth interviews and observations. These tools allowed me to generate new theory from one setting to another, identifying patterns, concepts and possible new theories. In-depth interviews were carried out with key players who had witnesses the growth of each company first hand. Participants consisted of the Entrepreneurs, the company founders along with members of management and staff, these included Directors, personal assistants and senior managers. The results yielded some interesting facts with regards to small business growth and factors promoting growth such as finance, knowledge, entrepreneurship, marketing, risk and people. Each company followed a similar growth trajectory. Knowledge is seen as an important contributor to the growth of each company, while people and loyalty were seen as the vital ingredient to facilitate growth. Questions have been raised with regards to formal marketing and entrepreneurial marketing. In this study all three entrepreneurs display similar characteristics, and their vision has contributed to the overall growth of the company. The conclusion outlined in chapter 5, discovered as accurately as possible, the truth behind the growth of each company.
Optimisation Of Heat Sink Design
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Moore Kevin
Published: August 2024

"In the field of electronics cooling and more specifically processor cooling, the ability to cool a micro-chip is becoming a major issue. Power dissipation in home and office computers has risen from 30W to over 120W in the past 10 years, forcing heat sink designers to search for new ideas in the design of their heat spreaders. This thesis studies in detail the fundamental technical designs used for modern day processor cooling. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), various different pin/fin shapes were analysed to determine which yielded maximum heat transfer and contact area with forced air flow. Elliptical and teardrop shaped pins displayed that they were efficient in maintaining a streamlined flow around the pins while maximising convective heat transfer. Experimental free convection testing was carried out on four different flat plate materials which supports the use of aluminium in the manufacture of heat sinks. Further free convection testing was carried out on three processor heat sinks, where thermal imaging demonstrated how efficient they were at spreading heat. The heat sinks were also tested to determine which type of heat sink, i.e. long fin or pins, had the best characteristics for free convection cooling. The key recommendations resulting from simulations and experimental testing suggest that further development of the elliptical and teardrop shaped pin heat sinks should be undertaken. They show potential to be very efficient heat sinks but this needs to be investigated further."
Reliability Of Micro Mechanical Low Frequency Energy Harvesters For Implanted Cardiac Pacemakers
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Jay Sunny
Published: August 2024

The aim of this project was to develop methods to assess the suitability and reliability of silicon-based piezoelectric micro-electro-mechanicai systems (MEMS) energy harvesters to capture the kinetic energy of the heartbeat in an implanted cardiac pacemaker. The major challenges of the work were that harvesters for vibration frequencies below 100 Hz have not been widely reported and the system requires reliable operation over a long lifetime. In this work device modelling was used for harvester design assessment. Experimental test methods and equipment were developed to produce data to validate the device models and to assess device reliability. A 2D analytical model and a 3D finite element method (FEM) model to predict displacement and power were designed and developed. Three commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) PVDF piezoelectric energy harvesters, were used for model development and validation while the MEMS silicon harvesters were fabricated. The COTS harvesters were also used in the development of experimental test methods and equipment. Tyndall National Institute produced two energy harvester designs and both were analysed under sinusoidal base excitation. Less than 1% error was achieved between modelled and experimental results at resonance. Once validated, the models were used to predict the energy harvester's reliability. Device failure analysis in initial reliability testing, showed good agreement with model predicted behaviour. Finally, the models were used with measured heartbeat acceleration profiles to predict power generation from a human heartbeat.
Faculty Perceptions and Implications of Innovation Strategies in Graduate Schools of Education: The Case of G Graduate School of Education
Authors:   Korean Society for  Holistic Convergence Education, Kim Chong Min , Suh Seungmi , Baek Junhyung , Lee Donghee
Published: August 2024

This study aims to investigate the perceptions of faculty members regarding strategies for enhancing research capabilities and elevating the quality of education within graduate schools of education, with an emphasis on drawing practical implications. Utilizing case studies from 20 graduate schools participating in the fourth phase of the BK21 project, we identified innovative approaches through faculty surveys. The analysis revealed 12 operational innovation factors, which were systematically organized into three domains: curriculum, research support, and welfare improvement, alongside 20 specific measures of innovation. Employing a comprehensive methodological framework that includes an importance-need analysis, t-test, Borich needs analysis, and The Locus for Focus model, we analyzed responses from an online survey of 68 faculty members from the G Graduate School of Education. The findings showed the critical need for innovation in areas such as joint course offerings among similar majors and curriculum development within the curriculum domain, as well as enhanced mentorship in the welfare improvement domain. These insights serve as a foundational framework for formulating strategic action plans aimed at fostering educational innovation and elevating performance metrics within graduate schools of education.
Solano Benítez y el extrañamiento como estrategia de proyecto
Authors: Camerin Suelen
Published: August 2024

Este ensayo propone una apreciación crítica de la producción del arquitecto paraguayo Solano Benítez (1963) a partir del extrañamiento como estrategia proyectual. El estudio parte de la lectura atenta de un conjunto de obras representativas de las distintas etapas de los primeros veinte años de su carrera profesional: Sede del Gabinete de Arquitectura, Casa Abu & Font, Unilever Paraguay y Fundación Teletón. El extenso e inusual uso del ladrillo, en formas expresivas y operaciones experimentales, que ha destacado la producción de Benítez en las últimas décadas, es también responsable de las sensaciones de extrañamiento que suelen provocar sus obras. Este estudio asume que el extrañamiento, operado tanto para causar incomodidad como para crear novedad, fue una práctica recurrente en la arquitectura moderna del siglo XX, y que Benítez, al continuar con esta estrategia, no solo reivindica la vitalidad y pertinencia de esta tradición, sino que también amplía el repertorio compositivo de sus antecesores. Además, a partir del análisis de los aspectos materiales, geométricos y figurativos de sus obras, también se espera demostrar el carácter diverso e inclusivo de su arquitectura.
Pemanfaatan Nanomaterial Carbon Nanodots Berbahan Dasar Limbah Tepung Aren (Arenga Pinnata) Sebagai Absorben Co2 Pada Pemurnian Biogas
Authors: Mohammad Ridwan Nulloh  , Rizki Aulia Rohmaniar  , Haryadi  , Alifiana Adhitasari
Published: August 2024

Pemurnian biogas  dapat dilakukan dengan memanfaatkan C-Dots sebagai penyerap gas CO2. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tahap pretreatment ampas aren, pembuatan C-Dots, pembuatan  larutan absorben, dan proses pemurnian biogas. C-Dots dibuat pada suhu karbonisasi 225oC selama 2 jam dan ekstraksi C-Dots menggunakan microwave pada suhu 70oC selama 40 menit. Kemudian C-Dots dianalisis menggunakan FTIR, spektrofotometer UV-Vis, sinar UV (366 nm) dan Transmission Electrone Microscope (TEM). Hasil karakterisasi FTIR terdapat gugus fungsi C-Dots, hasil dari spektrum UV-Vis menunjukkan eksitasi C-Dots terjadi pada panjang gelombang antara 230 - 240 nm dan karakteristik fotoluminesensi di bawah sinar UV. Morfologi C-Dots dari hasil TEM dengan ukuran partikel berkisar antara 2-8 nm dan distribusi ukuran partikel dominan 5 nm (50,81%). Pada proses pemurnian biogas konsentrasi larutan absorben yaitu 0,01 g/mL; 0,02 g/mL; 0,03 g/mL; 0,04 g/mL; 0,05 g/mL dengan waktu proses 10 menit pada suhu 25oC. Biogas yang telah dimurnikan kemudian dilakukan Analisa menggunakan Biogas Analyzer. Kualitas absorben terbaik  adalah 0,05 g/mL dengan efisiensi C-Dots sebesar 54%.