bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Silicon Production Waste as an Effective Additive in the Manufacture and Machining of Various Materials
Authors: Konstantinova Marina V. , Guseva Elena A. , Astafeva Natalia A.
Published: February 2022

The article describes the results of experiments on the use of silicon production waste as an additive that improves the structure and properties of materials and the efficiency of welding process. The flotation technology can be used to separate gas cleaning dust, which is a silicon production waste product, into commercial products. The chamber product, containing ultrafine silica, was used as a modifying additive in concrete. It improved its structure and increased its strength compared to the samples without additives. The modifier made from chamber products introduced into gray cast iron made it possible to obtain graphite of a more favorable shape as compared to the lamellar form of graphite in traditional gray cast iron. Its strength increased. The experimental results on the welding process with an activating flux, which includes ultrafine silica isolated from the metallurgical waste, are presented. The activating flux improved the penetrating ability of the welding arc by 1.5-3 times, the energy consumption decreased by 30-50%.
Ensuring the Quality of Self-Tapping Screws by Replacing the Thermochemical Treatment Line
Authors: Molochkova O.S. , Zvyagina Elena Yu. , Abarovich N.Yu
Published: February 2022

The paper compares the technical characteristics of two thermochemical treatment (TCT) lines for self-tapping screws at OJSC MMK-Metiz. Quenching on TCT line 1 is carried out in the furnace by AUTOMATION SERVICE, while quenching on TCT line 2 is carried out in the furnace by KOHNLE. The authors described quenching and tempering schedules in these two furnaces, studied the microstructure of screws at all process stages, determined technical parameters and properties of finished products after thermochemical treatment. The research showed that the best performance had TCT 2 by KOHNLE. The metallographic analysis indicated more stable parameters of the layer thickness after nitrocarburizing, core and surface hardness, which was in full compliance with regulatory documents. By introducing a better structure of a new TCT line by KOHNLE, a TCT process period became shorter, and a range of self-tapping screws might be extended entailing a higher output of finished products.
Experimental Determination of the Main Parameters of the Refining Process of Rough Ferronickel, Obtained by Iron-Chromium-Nickel Selective Reduction
Authors: Bigeev Vachit A. , Potapova Marina V. , Makarova Irina V.
Published: February 2022

For the development of nickel production in Russia, it is proposed to involve in processing complex natural-alloyed iron-chromium-nickel ores of the Khalilovskoye deposit, which are currently not used due to their poverty, both in iron and nickel. The rough ferronickel obtained by selective carbothermal reduction under laboratory conditions needs dephosphorization (the phosphorus content in the metal can reach 0.7%). In the frame of this work, the dependences of the phosphorus distribution coefficient on the slag basicity and the temperature of the metal were obtained in the course of experiment. Intervals of melting temperatures for calcareous-ferruginous slags were determined experimentally as well. On the basis of the obtained results, the criteria for the selection of the slag mode during dephosphorization of rough ferronickel were formulated: it is necessary to form a slag containing at least 40% CaO and 20% FeO with a basicity of 3.0 ... 3.5; the slag temperature should remain at the level of 1550 ... 1600 ° C, the slag at this temperature has a low viscosity; it is important to create a more complete mixing of the metal and slag for improvement of dephosphorization (by blowing metal with an inert gas or steam).
Laser-Induced Vacancies-Relief Ordered Structures on Titanium Surface
Authors: Uvarova Irina F.
Published: February 2022

Generation of coupled vacancy-relief ordered structures on titanium surface induced by laser millisecond pulses irradiation was studied. To explain the geometric features of the structures the model of vacancy-deformation instability was proposed. Numerical calculation performed in accordance with the theoretical model provided good quantitative agreement with experimental results.
Self-Healing of PVD-Coatings
Authors: Kudryakov Oleg V. , Varavka Valery N. , Kolesnikov Igor V.
Published: February 2022

The work is devoted to the study of the specific features of the structure of vacuum ion-plasma coatings, called by the authors substructural defects. Formed during the deposition of coatings of various compositions by the mechanism of helical growth, these surface crystalline formations, after reaching a certain size, spontaneously extruded (pushed out) from the coating. The cavities (niches) remaining at the site of the defect are filled (healed) by the deposited ions in the process of further growth of the coating. On the basis of thermodynamic analysis, theoretical estimates of the extrusion conditions were obtained in the work, which give a satisfactory agreement between the calculated and experimental data.
Evolution of Phase Composition and Thermal Expansion during Heating of VT23 Titanium Alloy
Authors: Vodolazskiy Fedor V. , Illarionov Anatoliy G. , Ryzhkov M.A.
Published: February 2022

Changes in thermal expansion during heating of hot-extruded tube made of VT23 titanium alloy (Ti-5.45 Al-4.7 V-2.45 Mo-1.1 Cr-0.7 Fe, wt. %) were analyzed. The volume effect of α→β-transformation, β-transus temperature as well as the volume fraction of α-and β-phase formed during heating were calculated based on the received data of dilatometric analysis. Results obtained were compared to thermodynamic calculations and published data. The change in the CTE value of VT23 alloy upon heating to 975 °C was estimated, and the explanation of different CTE values obtained in the present study and published data was proposed.
Local Thickenings and Thinnings of Hot Rolled Strips
Authors: Belskiy Sergey M. , Shopin Ivan I.
Published: February 2022

The cross-section profile of the rolled strip is characterized by geometrical parameters such as wedge, convex, difference of thickness, edge wedge and others. Techniques for calculating the values of these parameters are known and generally accepted. However, there are features of the cross-section profile of rolled strips, such as local thickenings/thinnings, the methods of calculating values of which are not common: practically every scientific school of specialists of rolling production use their own techniques, which often produce different results for the same cross-section profiles. The problem of identifying and calculating the local thickenings/thinnings parameters of the rolled strips cross-section profile is to define a so-called “zero level”, the excess/understatement of which is a sign of local thickenings/thinnings. The paper analyzes the accuracy and adequacy of the calculation of the cross-section profile parameters of rolled strips for local thickenings/thinnings. A new method based on statistical methods is proposed. The target function that the thickness distribution across the width of the rolled strip must correspond to is a symmetrical quadratic parabola. However, the actual distribution is always different from the target one for a number of reasons, such as ring wear of the work rolls. In the first step, in the proposed technique, the Walter-Shewhart procedure (control cards) eliminates as emissions of strip thickness values that are dramatically different from the target distribution. But since without excluding the nonlinear (parabolic) component of the measured cross-section profile this procedure cannot be applied, it applies to the first derivative of the cross-section profile thickness distribution function. The result of the developed method is a “zero level” according to which the local thickening/thinning parameters are calculated.
Investigation of the Impurities Formation during the Silicon Melt Crystallization
Authors: Tyutrin Andrey A. , Vasilyev Andrey A.
Published: February 2022

The study of the silicon crystallization mechanism by standard analytical methods is difficult since the temperature of liquid silicon in the ladle during oxidative refining is quite high rising to 1500-1600 °C. Therefore, the method of mathematical modelling was used.
To understand the mechanism of inclusions formation in silicon the authors applied a method of computer-generated state diagrams of three-component systems using the soft package Diatris. The package allows one to study the behavior of components involved in various physical and chemical transformations, and the interaction of elements with each other during the crystallization of the silicon melt.
This work studies the behavior of such impurities as Fe, Ti, B, and C. To achieve the set goals, the ternary diagrams were constructed and analyzed for the Si-Ti-Fe, Si-Ti-B, Si-Ti-C, Si-Fe-B, Si-Fe-C, and Si-B-C systems. To characterize the increase in the number of crystals when a multicomponent alloy passes the crystallization interval, the crystallization rate was calculated. It is established that the most probable impurity compounds in crystalline silicon are SiFe0.4B0.06, FeTiSi5, SiB0.06Ti0.33, and SiTi0.4C0.1.
Design and Manufacturing Technology of Round Samples for Studying the Effect of Defects on the Mechanical Properties of Welds
Authors: Kozhukhar Evgenii D. , Ruban Anatoly R.
Published: February 2022

The analysis of official data shows that the average service life of a ship in Russia exceeds 25 years, but it is no secret that a significant part of all ships is operated beyond the standard period. The ability of ship structures to withstand fatigue damage (cracks) from variable loads and extreme load damage (cracks, plastic deformations and loss of stability due to violation of their shape) is a complex concept that determines the strength of the entire welded hull. When repairing a ship, hull work accounts for up to 30% of the total repair and is carried out in difficult working conditions. The cost of hulls repairing is high not only because of the basic material costs, but also because the ship is decommissioned for a long time. Additional work on the repair of welds defective sections increases the time and complexity of the construction as well as ships repair. In this regard, the authors of the article consider it necessary to establish dependencies showing the mutual influence of defects in welded steel joints, the parameters of cyclic loading and the duration of the stages of fatigue failure. For this purpose, the authors analyze the cases of destruction of welded structures from welding. The choice of research methodology and materials for the study is justified. To study the effect of internal weld defects on the fatigue strength, the optimal number of test samples is taken. In connection with the specificity of the tasks to be solved, the authors were tasked to develop a scheme and design as well as to manufacture an experimental installation for conducting fatigue tests.
Technology and Equipment for Sintering of Iron-Ore Materials by Adding Brown Iron Ores as Pulp during Sinter Mix Pelletizing at Ural Steel, JSC
Authors: Ganin Dmitriy R. , Dolganov Dmitriy A. , Fuks Evgeniy A.
Published: February 2022

The article deals with issues of sintering process design and equipment selection for conditioning of pulp containing brown iron-ore additives and its further supplying to the pulp and supplying to the drum pelletizer shall include a ball mill; inclined close-type screw conveyor; vertical mixer; hydraulic tank; double-phase spray nozzles; controlling, guiding, instrumentation and auxiliary equipment of hydraulic systems.
FEM Simulation of Sclerometric Test of Nickel Aluminide Layered Coatings
Authors: Bogdanov Artem I. , Kulevich Vitaliy P. , Shmorgun Victor Georgievich
Published: February 2022

3D simulation by the finite element method (FEM) using MSC.Marc of sclerometric test with a conical indenter of a nickel aluminide intermetallic coating has been determined. The effect of the coating thickness and composition on the strain distribution has been determined. It is shown that an increase in the thickness of the coating makes it possible to reduce the magnitude of the maximum plastic strain. NiAl and Ni3Al coatings reduce maximum value of plastic strain and the penetration depth of indenter by 40% compared to a coating made of Ni2Al3.
Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes in Electrolytic Chromium Plating
Authors: Dyakov Igor A. , Safronov Ivan S.
Published: February 2022

The questions of the application of nanomaterials in mechanical engineering are considered. The concept of electrochemical processing products in mechanical engineering with the use of a solid nanodisperse phase is defined. The characteristics and methods of application in the processes of electrodeposition of carbon nanomaterials are determined. The results of experimental investigations of electrolytic chrome plating with multi-walled carbon nanotubes of the "Taunit" series are presented.
Study of the Behavior of SS34 in a Free and Heat-Treated State
Authors: Nasibullina O.A.
Published: February 2022

Steel grade SS34 has found wide application in the oil and gas industry. This steel is low-carbon. The choice of this steel is explained by its good properties for industrial facilities, such as weldability, non-hardening. A number of studies were carried out in the work, which included testing samples in a heat-treated state and free. To obtain an equilibrium structure, annealing was carried out. As a result of the experiment, it was shown that after annealing, the structure of SS34 steel acquired high plasticity, but low hardness and strength indicators were noted. Tensile tests of steel samples under static uniaxial loading were also carried out. As a result of such experiments, the main indicators of plasticity and strength of the metal under study were determined. Using the Rockwell method, the changes in the hardness of metal samples were studied. An optical microscope was used to determine the changes in the microstructure, and it was shown that the structure of the steel is ferrite-pearlite. The difference between the structure of the metal in the free and heat-treated state is also noted. In the initial state, it is fine – grained; in the processed state, it is homogeneous, the texture of deformation disappears. In the initial state of the steel grade SS34, scribbling was detected, and the liquation band was also clearly traced. It is shown that there is a chemical heterogeneity on the metal at this point, which is explained by the presence of impurities (oxides, nitrides, sulfides, silicides).
Mechanical Properties of Titanium Alloys at Operating and Pressure Shaping Temperatures Depending on the Aluminum and Molybdenum Equivalents
Authors: Egorova Yuliia B. , Davydenko Lyudmila V. , Mamonov I.M.
Published: February 2022

The mechanical properties of different classes of titanium alloys have been compared during tensile tests and upset tests in the temperature range of 20-1200 °C. It has been established that at temperatures of 20–500 °C, the maximum strength is observed for the α+β-transition alloys, and at 600–800 °C – for heat-resistant near α-and α+β-alloys. At temperatures exceeding 900 °C and up to the polymorphic transformation point, the softening of titanium alloys is mainly defined by the content of α-stabilizers and neutral hardeners. At temperatures above the polymorphic transformation point, the tensile strength does not depend on the aluminum and molybdenum equivalents.
Bauschinger Effect, Masing Principle and Hencky Theorem for Bending Moment at Repeated Alternating-Sign Bending of Steel Sheet
Authors: Shinkin Vladimir N.
Published: February 2022

In the production of the large-diameter thick-walled steel pipes (with a diameter of 1020-1420 mm and with a wall thickness of up to 32-48 mm from the high-strength steels of the strength class K50-K65) under the SMS Meer technology for the main gas-and-oil pipelines, the steel sheet is bent several times sequentially during the technological transitions from one press to another. At the elastoplastic alternating-sign bends of the sheet, the yield strength of the bending moment of the sheet changes from one bend to another, which causes great difficulties for the metallurgical technologists when they calculate the curvature of the tube’s wall and the final diameter of the pipe. To solve this problem, we propose the new analytical method for calculating the bending moment and curvature of a steel sheet under the low-cycle alternating-sign bending.
Structural and Surface Properties of Silicon Dioxides Obtained by Extraction from Sulfuric Acid Solutions of Nepheline Decomposition
Authors: Maiorov Dmitry , Velyaev Yuriy
Published: February 2022

There is presented the method of silicon dioxide obtaining by its extraction from silica-containing solution from nepheline decomposition with the acetone and ethanol help with organic phase subsequent gelatinisation. Structural and surface properties of the obtained SiO2 samples were investigated. The specific surface area of the obtained samples depends on the preparation method and varies in the range from 559 to 626 m2/g. The particles average diameter varies in the given series of samples from 2.26 to 6.68 nm. It has been found that the use of extraction has no destructive effect on the SiO2 specific surface area and maintains its original microporous structure.
Investigation of Causes of Wall Thinning during Stamping of Halves of Stamped-Welded Elbows
Authors: Torgonin K. , Shirokov Viacheslav V.
Published: February 2022

In recent years, the oil and gas industries have been developing significantly. In this regard, there was a great need for the construction of main pipelines, which consist of pipes and connecting parts. The production of connecting parts of pipeline has not been studied enough to date. This article describes the process of stamping halves of stamped-welded elbows. During the stamping operation, the workpiece wall is thinned. The process of modeling this operation in a software of modeling by finite element method Deform-3D is described. The place of the greatest thinning of the wall was determined with the help of Deform-3D. The results of modeling and experimental production coincided. The main factors that may influence the degree of thinning were identified. Experimental calculations were performed in Deform-3D with a variation of these factors. As a result of the experiments carried out, the most significant factor was determined and an option was proposed to solve the problem of wall thinning. Solving this problem will help reduce the cost of production by 1.5 times.
Physical Aspects of Laser Steel Processing in the Magnetic Field
Authors: Brover Andrey V. , Brover Galina I. , Topolskaya Irina A.
Published: February 2022

The article contains the results of experiments carried out on laser irradiation of steels in a constant magnetic field. The experiment shows it possible to increase the cooling speed while heat transfer decreases from the surface into lower metal layers, which slightly reduces laser-hardened layer depth, increases convective mixing of the fusion area, which have a positive impact on the surface layers quality of steel and alloys. This has a positive effect on strength product properties. Magnetic field processing of metal reduces the degree of local plastic deformation of irradiated layer due to magnetostriction phenomenon. Magnetic field superimposition contributes to two-phase decay of the martensite, and reduces residual stresses and crack risk.
Phase Diagrams of Me-O-C Systems to Study Metallurgical Processes
Authors: Belskii Sergei S. , Aponchuk Irina I. , Molokova Lada V.
Published: February 2022

Metallurgical processes in Me-O-C systems cannot be studied and controlled using conventional analytical and physicochemical techniques. This is due to the complex physical and chemical interactions occurring in high-temperature metallurgical systems with the formation of various compounds. To study such processes, mathematical (thermodynamic) simulation and other techniques are widely used, among which graphical diagrams illustrating the equilibrium between individual phases or their systems occupy a special place. Diagrams have been proposed that are more common, informative, and herewith universal to study pyrometallurgical processes. The main research objective was to determine the equilibrium composition of the Me-O-C system, i.e., the amount or ratio of its various compounds such as carbides, oxides, pure substances, and, possibly, ternary compounds. The equilibrium compositions of the system were obtained to plot diagrams from not only experimental studies but also the chemical equilibria mathematical simulation results using the Selector software package. The diagrams proposed herein allow establishing a quantitative relationship between the temperature, the ratio of independent components (metal, oxygen, and carbon), on the one hand, and the complete equilibrium composition of the system, which implies data on the amount and type of condensed and gas phases in the system and their ratios, on the other hand. This mechanism is a new tool to study chemical conversions in complex metallurgical processes, which will be very useful for metallurgists, chemists, and technologists.
Mechanisms of Plastic Deformation during Laser Heat Treatment of ARMCO Pure Iron
Authors: Varavka Valery N. , Kudryakov Oleg V. , Morozkin Igor S.
Published: February 2022

The work is devoted to the study of the phenomenon of grain boundary slippage (GBS) in the ARMCO pure iron at the periphery of the laser treatment zone. Using optical metallography and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the characteristic features of the GBS mechanism were revealed: stepped boundaries, accommodation zones, and grain rotation. It was found that under laser irradiation in the heat-affected zone, the plastic deformation of the ferrite matrix is ​​fully realized by the GBS. Slipping of boundaries is carried out under conditions of ultra-high-speed heating of the ferrite matrix not lower than 700 °C, and the degree of deformation by the GBS mechanism does not exceed 5-6%.
Optimization of 3D Printing Modes for Electric Arc Surfacing Using a Digital Twin of the Process
Authors: Shatagin Dmitrii A. , Anosov Maksim S. , Galkin Andrei , Klochkova Natalia
Published: February 2022

The article proposes a method for choosing the optimal modes of 3D printing by electric arc surfacing on CNC machines using a digital twin of the process. As a digital twin, a neural network model is used that approximates the dependence of the stability of the surfacing process and the geometric parameters of the printed layer on the surfacing modes: voltage, current and minute feed. The possibility of optimizing 3D printing modes using neural network modeling based on a modified backpropagation method is shown.
Study of Manganese Recovery in the CaO-SiO2-MgO-Al2O3-MnO-Fe2O3 System by Thermodynamic Simulation
Authors: Salina V.A. , Zhuchkov Vladimir
Published: February 2022

The results of thermodynamic simulation of the manganese recovery in the CaO-SiO2-MgO-Al2O3-MnO-Fe2O3 system by carbon are presented. Parameters of the initial system are temperature range 1400-at a step of , a total pressure of 0.1 MPa, and N2. The composition of the oxide system is corresponded by the manganese ore (wt %) 1.1 MnO2, 44.3 MnO, 28.4 CaO, 9.3 SiO2, 5.4 MgO, 0.3 Al2O3, 11.2 Fe2O3 and silicomanganese slag. It contains (wt %) 16.3 MnO, 18.4 CaO, 52 SiO2, 7.8 MgO, 5.26 Al2O3, and 0.24 FeO. The amount of silicomanganese slag in the system was 0, 5, 12, and 25%. Carbon is used as a reducing agent. Its consumption is increased by 5% from the stoichiometry for the recovery of Fe and Mn and by 8% of the metal mass for the formation of iron, manganese, and silicon carbides. The simulation is carried out using HSC Chemistry 6.12 () software package. The thermodynamic characteristics of the Fe3C, Fe2O3, FeO, MnO2, Mn, Mn3C, Mn5C2, Mn7C3, Mn23C6, and SiC compounds existing in the database are refined. It was determined that an increase in the melt temperature from 1400 to increases the degree of manganese recovery (ηMn) for all compositions of the systems. An increase of the silicomanganese slag content in the mixture from 0 to 25% decreases ηMn from 89.3 to 85% at and from 95.8 to 91.5% at . The chemical composition of the high-carbon ferromanganese alloy is (wt %): 71.9-72.8 Mn, 16.6-17.9 Fe, 0.015-1.64 Si, and 9-. The simulation results can be used to develop a technology for producing a high-carbon ferromanganese when silicomanganese slag is involved in metallurgical processing.
Influence of Particle Size Distribution of Wood Waste Pyrolysis Product on Productivity and Purification Efficiency
Authors: Nasyrov Ilnar A. , Fazullin Dinar D. , Mavrin Gennady V.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, studies were carried out on sorption purification under dynamic conditions of a copper (II) ions model solution with sorption material. Sorption material was obtained by low-temperature pyrolysis from wood wastes. Studies were carried out for fractions with particle sizes less than 0.5 mm, 0.5-1 mm, 1-2 mm, 2 and more mm. Test model solution was a polydisperse system with particle sizes from 145 to 224 nm and 6450 to 8640 nm. Particle size of disperse phase of filtrate after passing through sorption material with particle size of 1-2 mm was in the range from 310 to 412 nm and from 2260 to 3300 nm. Peaks of particle size intensity in the filtrate after passing through the sorbent (fraction 1-2 mm) were shifted downward. This indicates that smaller particles remained in the filtrate after purification. This is confirmed by an increase in the sorption rate of copper ions. As the particle size increases, the filtration rate increases, but the efficiency of removing copper ions decreases. The degree of sorption of copper ions from the model solution with an initial concentration of 1028 mg/dm3 was 96.4% for the fraction of the pyrolysis product with a particle size of 1-2 mm, 91.9% - less than 0.5 mm, 91.1% - 0.5-1 mm, 91.7% - more than 2 mm.
Protection of Cast Iron Sections of Gas-Collecting Bell of Soderberg Electrolysis Cell
Authors: Sokolnikov Vladimir A. , Tyutrin Andrey A.
Published: February 2022

The work is devoted to the actual problem of corrosion of the gas-collecting bell of the Soderberg electrolysis cell, which operates in close proximity to the molten electrolyte. Due to gas corrosion during the operation of the electrolysis cell, the cast-iron sections are destroyed and the release of anode gases into the atmosphere of the housing occurs. Iron-containing corrosion products falling into the melt of primary aluminum reduce its quality and grade. In order to prevent this phenomenon, the effectiveness of their protection with a dry mixture for obtaining a protective oxide-ceramic coating of cast-iron surfaces of gas-collecting bell is studied. The results obtained proved the effectiveness of the proposed coating: the service life of the gas-collecting bell sections increased by 4 times. After applying the protective coating for A85 grade aluminum, it increased from 2 to 24%, and the share of A7 grade aluminum decreased from 25 to 18 %.
Producer responsibility in managing plastic packaging waste in Sri Lanka: A legal framework based on lessons learned from Germany
Authors: Balachandra B.A.K.S. , Abeysekara T.B.
Published: February 2022

The life cycle of plastic packaging ends in polluting the environment and negatively impacting wildlife, marine life, and human health. In Sri Lanka, manufacturers and distributors are not responsible for the end life cycle of plastic packaging under our domestic legislation. In 1991, Germany was the first country to introduce the legislative implemented "Extended Producer Responsibility" to the rest of the world through the German Packaging Ordinance. In 2016, Germany's domestic recycling rate was "65 percent," making it the world's "leading race" country (Singapore Environmental Council, 2018). Because Sri Lanka is a developing country, this study examines the various disposal options for plastic packaging waste, realising that Germany has much to teach Sri Lanka. Due to the lacuna in national policy in managing post-consumer plastic packaging waste, this study intends to examine the applicability of legislatively implemented Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Sri Lanka through the lessons learned from the German jurisdiction. Additionally, this qualitative study examines how lessons from Germany can be incorporated into the legal framework in Sri Lanka to manage plastic packaging and packaging waste better. National Environmental Act, Special Regulations published in the gazette are given more attention and analysed and discussed accordingly in identifying the lacuna in Sri Lanka's Jurisdiction in managing the end life cycle of post-consumer plastic packaging waste. The recommendations based on the findings through the in-depth literature reviews in this research form an implementation plan for plastic packaging waste policies in the domestic jurisdiction highlighting the mandatory final disposal and recovery of plastic packaging by manufacturers and distributors in Sri Lanka to ensure sustainable business practices.
A revisit of National Science & Technology Policy for the development of small and medium enterprises in Sri Lanka
Authors: Piyumal K.T.R. , Samarakoon K.W. , Hirimburegama K.
Published: February 2022

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) played a crucial part in the Sri Lankan economy and acknowledged as the country's backbone for industrial growth. However, the recent studies in this sector exhibit that Sri Lanka has not achieved the desired level needed in the modern world compared with other countries, especially within the region. This study examined and reviewed extensive literature, gathering information from experts in the national economic development and science and technology innovation. That helped to identify the major challenges on the National Science & Technology Policy (NSTP) and development of Sri Lankan SMEs, including various contributions to the national economy, with the challenges faced and the initiatives and incentives offered by related authorities. There are several significant factors identified among challenges. They are; lower level of science-based technological innovation, limited skilled of human resources with less commitment, the absence of broad-based scientific knowledge, weak implementation of policies, weak commercialisation of research & indigenous knowledge, poor sustainability of natural resources, lack of expert knowledge, high-cost technology import and leverage of much technology, informal use of technology, the reluctance of rural people to integrate with new technology and hesitance to pay for the technology, lower levels of research & development facilities, a high level of international competition, a high level of private-sector interference with less government involvement, and weakness of national fund gathering and distribution. These lapses suggest that the existing policies are insufficient or may not be delivered effectively to overcome these challenges. This study makes an effort to identify the irregularities of NSTP as a positive step and propose a way forward in formulating a workable framework to upgrade SMEs in Sri Lanka that would be highly effective.
Autonomia e consenso informato. Modelli di rapporto tra medico e malato mentale.
Authors: Sala Roberta
Published: February 2022

Lo studio si propone di analizzare il difficile rapporto tra medico e paziente psichiatrico nell'ambito della più generale crisi della medicina in questo secolo. Dopo aver tracciato un profilo della critica filosofica novecentesca al concetto di scienza ed aver illustrato le difficoltà che incontrano i modelli tradizionali di medicina (p.e. paternalistico, contrattuale), l'Autore considera i vari modi di intendere la malattia mentale e la relazione medico-paziente psichiatrico con un particolare sguardo sulla comunicazione della verità all'all'ammalato in psichiatria e sui problemi relativi al consenso informato.
L'umanizzazione dell'assistenza alla nascita
Authors: Leone Salvino
Published: February 2022

Il tema dell'umanizzazione è ormai entrato a pieno titolo tra quelli che una nuova cultura dell'assistenza sanitaria si sforza di promuovere. In quest'ambito un ruolo di primo piano spetta all'umanizzazione dell'assistenza alla nascita. E' un settore in cui si rilevano ancora insufficienze e inadeguatezze dovute a molteplici condizionamenti storici. Un globale progetto di umanizzazione dovrà tenere conto dei vari momenti che il nascere comporta. Innanzitutto il tempo dell'attesa, con le sue ansie, le sue difficoltà decisionali, le sue incertezze. Poi il momento del parto con i problemi relativi a una diversa accoglienza alla nascita, alla scelta tra i vari metodi di analgesia, al luogo in cui dare alla luce. E infine il "dopo" con le tipiche reazioni da adattamento psichico. Un panorama complesso, quindi, in cui a dir il vero qualcosa è già stato fatto ma molto resta ancora da fare.
Prudent and proactive board succession planning: A case study of selected companies in South Africa
Authors: Mans-Kemp Nadia , Flanegan Jemma N.
Published: February 2022

Orientation: The monitoring and advisory roles of directors are highlighted by escalating corporate uncertainty and diminishing confidence in leaders in the latest phase of the industrial revolution. Nomination committees should thus give due consideration to current and required human capital needs of boards when conducting succession planning, as their decisions have substantial implications for stakeholders.Research purpose: To investigate board succession planning practices and policies at selected companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.Motivation for the study: There is an evident need for proactive succession planning that accounts for prudent board renewal and director development to ensure business continuity.Research design, approach and method: Given the well-developed corporate governance framework in South Africa, the views of eight selected directors were gauged on succession planning by conducting semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted to derive themes from the qualitative data.Main findings: Nomination committees increasingly account for board composition concerns raised by prominent shareholders. The interviewees suggested that board succession planning is often not formalised. They mentioned that succession policies should be flexible to account for rapid change. Furthermore, the board development mechanisms applicable to executive and non-executive directors differ substantially. Proactive development of the talent pipeline is thus essential.Practical/managerial implications: As heterogeneous boards offer several benefits to companies and their stakeholders, nomination committees should account for diversity considerations when conducting succession planning. Policies pertaining to tenure, diversity and independence should be formalised and annually evaluated and reported on.Contribution/value-add: Several recommendations are offered to enhance board succession planning, based on the lived experiences of directors in an emerging market.
Perspectives of key stakeholders on educational experiences of children with autism spectrum disorders at the Kenyan Coast
Authors: Abubakar Amina , Gona Joseph K. , Kipkemoi Patricia , Rimba Ken , Amukambwa Dennis , Newton Charles R.J.C.
Published: February 2022

Background: Little is known about the educational experiences of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in the Kenyan Coastal context.Objectives: We examined the diagnostic and placement procedures used in education on the Kenyan coastal region. In addition, we investigated the education-related challenges faced by children with ASD.Methods: We conducted focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with 21 participants, including teachers, clinicians and educational administrators. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic framework on qualitative data analysis software, NVIVO 10.Results: The findings from this study indicate that there were no systematic approaches to diagnosing children as having ASD. Teachers reported experiencing many challenges, including a lack of specialised training, inadequate resources and difficulty in managing children with different functional abilities in one class.Conclusion: There is an urgent need for contextually relevant evidence-based identification, placement and management services to be put in place to meet the educational needs of children with ASD.
Introducing the Including Disability in Education in Africa Research Unit at the University of Cape Town
Authors: Vergunst Richard , McKenzie Judith
Published: February 2022

Background: The Including Disability in Education in Africa (IDEA) Research Unit at the University of Cape Town in South Africa was established in 2020 and focused on carrying out research studies in the field of disability and education in Africa and beyond.Objectives: The objective of this article was to introduce the research unit and highlight its vision, mission and objectives.Method: A general review of the research unit.Results: The IDEA Research Unit plays an important role in the research arena within South Africa and Africa when it comes to disability issues in education.Conclusion: More networking and collaboration should take place between the IDEA Research Unit and relevant stakeholders in the field of disability and education.
Are we tribalistic? Demarcation disputes in Vuwani Vhembe District
Authors: Khowa Thandeka
Published: February 2022

Background: Vuwani community expressed their rejection of the municipal boundary demarcations which resulted in the formation of the Collins Chabane Municipality made-up of parts of Vuwani community and Malamulele community. A number of media reports had alluded that much of what is presented as demarcation disputes is largely fueled by tribalism (Baloyi 2018).Aim: Using relevant literature, this study aimed at examining claims of tribalism in Vuwani demarcation disputes. In so doing the study examines the claims of tribalism as a catalyst in the demarcation disputes in Vuwani.Setting: The area of study is Vuwani Vhembe District in South Africa. However lessons learnt are not limited to South Africa but contributes to the body of knowledge on demarcations in Africa and worldwide.Methods: A qualitative approach was adopted using in-depth and focus group discussion analysed through Territorial and Inclusion theories.Results: The findings revealed that clustering Vuwani demarcation disputes as being merely tribalistic is a narrow and dismissive approach to the amalgamation disputes in Vuwani. The findings further revealed the contributing factors to the demarcation disputes in Vuwani such as lack of adherence to good governance principle, lack of transparency etc. have led to many misconceptions which fueled the ongoing demarcation disputes.Conclusion: Adherence to good governance principles and policies is essential in redrawing of the spatial boundaries. Land, especially rural land is a sensitive commodity in Africa because of the effects of colonialism and apartheid. Thus, redrawing of spatial boundaries need to be carried out with extreme caution.
Missing appointments by patients on antiretroviral therapy: Professional nurses’ perspective
Authors: Lowane Mygirl P. , Lebese Rachel T.
Published: February 2022

Background: Missed appointments for medicine pick-ups are regarded as a predictor of poor adherence, and should trigger immediate questions about issues that may affect follow-up visits to healthcare settings.Objectives: The study explored and described professional nurses’ perspectives about the factors that contribute to missing appointments by people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLWHIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Mopani and Vhembe district in Limpopo Province.Method: A qualitative explorative contextual approach was used for the study. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used to select 14 professional nurses who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected through face-to-face unstructured interviews. One central question was asked and probing questions were based on the participants’ responses to the central question. Thematic analysis of the findings was carried out. Trustworthiness was ensured through intercoder agreement, audio recording, triangulation, bracketing, and member checking. Required permission, approval, and ethical clearance were also ensured.Results: Organisational health system and management of the healthcare facility were found to be the barriers that negatively impacted on the ability of the PLWHIV on ART to maintain clinic visits appointments. Lack of patient involvement, stereotyped appointment dates selection, poor patient-provider relationships, errors of recording appointment dates and long waiting times came up as sub-themes derived from the main theme.Conclusion: The results suggest that there is a need to increase and improve mutual trust in patient-provider relationships, improve nurses working conditions, develop proper booking systems and reduce clinic waiting hours.
Differential EUS findings in focal type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer
Authors: Tacelli Matteo , Zaccari Piera , Petrone Maria Chiara , Della Torre Emanuel , Lanzillotta Marco , Falconi Massimo , Doglioni Claudio , Capurso Gabriele , Arcidiacono Paolo Giorgio
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives:

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) often mimics pancreatic cancer (PC), particularly if presenting as a focal lesion. EUS may orient the differential diagnosis between them. This study aims to identify EUS findings that might be useful to differentiate type 1 focal autoimmune pancreatitis (f-AIP1) and PC.

Materials and Methods:

F-AIP1 and PC patients were retrospectively collected, matched, and compared. EUS findings considered were: focal mass echogenicity, loss of lobularity, distal atrophy, peripancreatic hypoechoic margins (PHM), pancreatic duct dilation, duct-penetrating sign (DPS), pancreatic/common bile duct thickened walls (PD/CBD-TW), and vessel infiltration (VI). Elastography findings were also recorded. Variables with a P < 0.05 at univariate analysis were included in logistic multiple regression.

Results:

Fifteen patients with f-AIP and 60 with PC were studied. FE was hypoechoic in all patients from both groups. PHM was observed in 40% of f-AIP1 cases but not in PC ones (P < 0.001). DPS was found in 10/15 (66.7%) f-AIP1 and in 7/60 (11.7%) PC patients (P < 0.001). PD-TW and CBD-TW were observed in 66.7%/60% f-AIP1 cases and in 6.7%/13.6% PC patients, respectively (P < 0.001 for both comparisons). Pancreatic masses were significantly different at EUS elastography (elastic respectively in 71.4% f-AIP1 and 3.8% PC, P < 0.001). VI was suspected in 20% of f-AIPs and 85% of PCs (P < 0.001). At multiple regression, PD-TW, CBD-TW, elastic pattern, and the absence of VI independently supported a diagnosis of f-AIP1.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that EUS findings deserve consideration in the diagnostic workup of AIP to improve the differential diagnosis with PC.
Study of water and sediment surface quality on defilement of heavy metals Pb & Cd at a downstream section of Musi River, South Sumatera, Indonesia
Authors: Tjahjono Agus , Sugiharto Rudy , Wahyuni Okvita
Published: February 2022

This research (1) analyzed the content of Pb and Cd in water and sediment; (2) analyzed physical and chemical parameters in water; (3) determined the enrichment factor and accumulation index of Pb and Cd in sediments; and (4) to identified water quality based on the Pollution Index (IP) and STORET. The analysis was carried out using PCA (Principal Component Analysis) and Pearson's correlation, and was conducted in the downstream section of the Musi River, Palembang, using a random sampling technique. Based on the analysis, it was found that the content of Pb and Cd in the waters had surpassed the quality standard whereas the contents of both heavy metals found in the sediment still met the quality standard. It was also found that several variables of the physical and chemical parameters did not meet the criteria. Based on the Enrichment Factor (EF) and the Accumulation Index (Igeo) of Pb and Cd, the river had not been defiled. The pollution index values of both IP and STORET indicated that the water had been heavily polluted. Based on the PCA, three factors which affected the quality of the river water were found.

Keywords: abiotic, defilement, evaluation, index, mud, quality.
Moringa oleifera seed husks for methylene blue dye adsorption: kinetic, equilibrium, and thermodynamic analyses
Authors: Lopes Carolina Almeida , Roledo Cely , Reis Adriano Gonçalves dos
Published: February 2022

M. ole·ifera se·ed hu·sks (H-M·O) w·ere u·sed as adsorbent for the removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from an aqueous solution. The ads·orbent was char·acterized by SE·M, ED·X, X·RD, F·TIR, B·ET, and p·HPZC. To evaluate adsorption capacity, the influences of p·H, kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamic prop·erties were anal·yzed. Characteri·zation tech·niques indic·ated that H-MO has het·erogeneous morp·hological charac·teristics wi·th a spe·cific sur·face a·rea of 3.24 m2 g-1, mai·nly comp·osed of ce·llulose distr·ibuted in an amor·phous stru·cture. MB adsorption was favorable at pH values higher than pHPZC of 6.6, using an adsorbent dosage of 1.0 g L-1. Equilibrium was achieved in the first 240 min, and the pseudo-second-order model was suitable for describing the kinetic data. Freu·ndlich was the mo·st adeq·uate model for descri·bing the isoth·erm cur·ves, pred·icting a max·imum adsor·ption capa·city of 122.7 mg g-1 at 24°C, hig·her tha·n oth·er natu·ral ad·sorbents. The ads·orption proc·ess w·as spo·ntaneous and exoth·ermic, indic·ating that lo·wer temper·atures fav·or the ad·sorption and th·at it is cont·rolled by p·hysical fo·rces. The da·ta presen·ted indic·ate the M·B has t·he pot·ential to be succ·essfully trea·ted by the eco-fr·iendly and l·ow-cost ads·orbent M. oleif·era seed h·usks.

Keywords: agricultural wastes, low-cost adsorbent, physisorption.
Spotify streaming platforma
Authors: Lozić Joško , Fotova Čiković Katarina , Vuković Dijana
Published: February 2022

Cilj je ovoga rada ukazati na promjene koje su zahvatile glazbenu industriju pod utjecajem digitalne transformacije proizvodnog i distribucijskog procesa. Digitalizacija proizvodnog procesa promijenila je način ostvarivanja prihoda u svim vrstama industrija te je izazivala dramatične promjene u načinu upravljanja. Glazbena industrija, kao segment medijske industrije, potpuno je promijenila način distribucije glazbenih sadržaja. Digitalizacijom proizvodnog procesa, stvoreni su uvjeti za distribuciju glazbenih brojeva izvan klasičnih brickand-mortar prodavaonica gramofonskih ploča. Klasični model proizvodnje i distribucije fizičkih proizvoda, zamijenjen je pretplatom na streaming platformu. Glazbena streaming platforma Spotify predvodnik je nove menadžerske paradigme u distribuciji i konzumaciji glazbenog sadržaja. Distribucija glazbenih sadržaja u modelu pretplate na streaming platformu bio je temelj na kojem se razvio pojam spotifikacija, koji označava distribuciju sadržaja na streaming platformama.
The Impact of Research in Education
Authors: Schleicher Andreas
Published: February 2022

This much-needed, original book analyzes efforts and systems in nine countries to mobilize research knowledge, describing the various factors that support or inhibit that work to provide an unprecedented view of the way education research is produced and shared.
Continuing Professional Development in Social Work
Authors: Halton Carmel , Powell Fred , Scanlon Margaret
Published: February 2022

This book offers a unique insight into the possibilities of continuing professional development (CPD) and the issues it presents for newly qualified and experienced social workers in practice. It offers possible directions for the future of post qualifying social work education, making it essential reading for practitioners, educators, managers and policy-makers.