bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BMSeNet: Multiscale Context Pyramid Pooling and Spatial Detail Enhancement Network for Real-Time Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Zhao Shan , Zhao Xin , Huo Zhanqiang , Zhang Fukai
Published: August 2024

Most real-time semantic segmentation networks use shallow architectures to achieve fast inference speeds. This approach, however, limits a network’s receptive field. Concurrently, feature information extraction is restricted to a single scale, which reduces the network’s ability to generalize and maintain robustness. Furthermore, loss of image spatial details negatively impacts segmentation accuracy. To address these limitations, this paper proposes a Multiscale Context Pyramid Pooling and Spatial Detail Enhancement Network (BMSeNet). First, to address the limitation of singular semantic feature scales, a Multiscale Context Pyramid Pooling Module (MSCPPM) is introduced. By leveraging various pooling operations, this module efficiently enlarges the receptive field and better aggregates multiscale contextual information. Moreover, a Spatial Detail Enhancement Module (SDEM) is designed, to effectively compensate for lost spatial detail information and significantly enhance the perception of spatial details. Finally, a Bilateral Attention Fusion Module (BAFM) is proposed. This module leverages pixel positional correlations to guide the network in assigning appropriate weights to the features extracted from the two branches, effectively merging the feature information of both branches. Extensive experiments were conducted on the Cityscapes and CamVid datasets. Experimental results show that the proposed BMSeNet achieves a good balance between inference speed and segmentation accuracy, outperforming some state-of-the-art real-time semantic segmentation methods.
Towards Mitigating Climate Change Negative Impact: The Role of Regulations and Governance in the Construction Industry
Authors: El-Hakim Yasmin , AbouZeid Mohamed Nagib
Published: August 2024

Climate change is a significant challenge in today’s world. The construction industry is one of the most energy-intensive and raw material-depleting sectors worldwide. Legal regulations, such as laws, building codes, and alternative governance, are effective ways to help mitigate climate change risks. Most of the research focuses on either one country’s policies in the construction industry towards climate change or one type of regulation across various countries. Therefore, the objective of this study is to explore and compare various kinds of regulations, namely policies and laws, green codes, and green building rating systems, in three countries: Egypt, the UAE, and the United States, representing different country profiles from different continents. Sources from credible journal papers, conference proceedings, and theses dissertations were used to explore the most recent practices in these countries. It was found that Egypt is the least effective country in enforcing actions towards the climate crisis. There is a gap between the UAE’s actions and the nationally determined contribution target. Federal setbacks hinders the widespread adoption of green practices in the United States. Therefore, the key to effective approaches to combating climate change is enforcing inclusive laws, including all sustainability pillars, and having inclusive nationwide emissions targets in all sectors.
REGULATION OF PHYSICAL CULTURE AND SPORT: ANALYSIS OF THE FIELD OF RESEARCH
Authors: BONDARENKO V. , KORNOSENKO O. , SERHIEIEV M.
Published: August 2024

The article considers peculiarities of the study of regulation of legal relations in the field of physical culture and sports at the stage of formation of sports law as a branch of legislation. Physical culture and sport as a subject of scientific research attracts the attention of scholars of various fields, including lawyers who are actively studying the phenomenon of sports law, Endeavouring to improve domestic legislation in this regard and to bring it into line with international standards.
The article analyses main tendencies of development of sports law, role and significance of international legal acts in formation of national branch of law. In particular, the influence of the works of Bordyugova G.Y. and Vasilenko M.D. on the study of this problem is considered.
Long-standing and well-known scholars and practitioners have discussed various aspects of legal relations in the field of sport: the promulgation and formation of sports law; the concept of sports law; sources of law; civil, administrative and labour relations in sports and others. It is obvious that in regulating legal relations in physical culture and sports there are problematic issues related to both gaps and contradictions, which require legal support and clear order, permanent  additions, improvements, and sometimes fundamental changes.
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM: NORM AND PATHOLOGY. GENERAL FUNDAMENTALS OF CARDIOREHABILITATION
Authors: MYRONENKO S.
Published: August 2024

The article, based on the analysis of scientific literature and research results, provides a description of the human cardiovascular system, a description of the signs of its normality and pathology. The main anatomical characteristics of the cardiovascular system are specified, the main indicators of its functioning are given, in particular, heart rate and blood pressure. It is noted that according to the "heart rate" indicator, normocardia, tachycardia and bradycardia are diagnosed; the concept of "sports bradycardia" is a variant of the norm for athletes. For the "blood pressure" indicator, there are three normal categories (according to the recommendations of experts of the World Health Organization): optimal, normal, high normal blood pressure. The digital characteristics of these indicators are indicated. The specified types of disorders of the circulatory system, statistical data on the prevalence of diseases of the circulatory system among the population of Ukraine and other countries of the world are given. The article also describes the basics of cardiorehabilitation, which is an important part of treatment: its goals and objectives are indicated. One of the main means of cardiorehabilitation - physical activity - is described in detail. The frequency, intensity, duration and type of physical activity in cardiorehabilitation are characterized. Detailed advice is given on calculating the intensity of loads based on the maximum heart rate and reserve heart rate on the basis of the estimated age-related heart rate. Such methods will help people with the specified pathology to properly organize and control the process of physical rehabilitation, and may also be useful for primary prevention.
EFFICIENCY OF TRAINING IN A MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT: INCREASING THE PERFORMANCE OF ATHLETES SPECIALIZING IN MIDDLE AND LONG DISTANCE
Authors: SOHOKON O. , KRAVCHENKO V.
Published: August 2024

In this study, we characterized the effectiveness of building the training process of track and fieldф athletes for medium and long distances in a mountainous environment. For the development of physical qualities of professional athletes who specialize in endurance sports, training in mountain conditions is of great importance.
Among the key influencing factors on the human body in mountain conditions, the most significant are the decrease in atmospheric pressure, the rarefaction of the air, as well as the decrease in the oxygen level.
Modern scientists have studied the main adaptive reactions caused by staying in mountain conditions: increase in pulmonary ventilation; increase in cardiac output; increase in hemoglobin content; increase in the number of erythrocytes; increase in erythrocytes of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (DFH), which contributes to the removal of oxygen from hemoglobin; increasing the amount of myoglobin, which facilitates oxygen consumption; increase in the size and number of mitochondria; increase in the number of oxidative enzymes.
After the transition to the mountains, in the body of a person who found himself in conditions of hypoxia, compensatory protective mechanisms against lack of oxygen are activated. Visible changes in the functioning of various systems are already observed from a height of 1000-1200 meters above sea level. So, at an altitude of 1000 meters VO2 max is 96-98% of the maximum level recorded on the plain. With increasing altitude, this indicator gradually decreases by 0.7- 1.0% for every 100 meters.
In our study, we gave examples of track and field athletes who trained in mountainous terrain and showed high sports results at competitions in normal conditions. So, we came to the conclusion that training in mountainous terrain is an effective way to increase the athlete's functional potential and achieve better sports results in normal competition conditions. We believe that this type of training not only increases the physical endurance of runners, but also makes their body more resistant to extreme conditions that may arise during competitions or training in different areas. The use of mountain areas for training helps to adapt to different conditions and provides endurance for long distances.
RESEARCH AND EXPERIMENTAL WORK ON PREPARING FUTURE BACHELORS OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION FOR TEACHING ACTIVITIES IN THE CONDITIONS OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Authors: DEMUS Ya. , FAZAN V.
Published: August 2024

The article is devoted to the disclosure of the methodology of research and experimental work on the preparation of future bachelors of physical education for pedagogical activity in the conditions of inclusive education. A formative experiment program has been developed. An experiment was conducted to determine students' readiness for the inclusive orientation of the educational process. The effectiveness of the developed didactic exercises for the formation of inclusive competence of future bachelors of physical culture for pedagogical activity in the conditions of inclusive education is proven.
METHODOLOGICAL APPROACHES IN PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF FUTURE SPECIALISTS IN PHYSICAL CULTURE AND SPORTS
Authors: HOROKHOV S. , YAREMENKO S.
Published: August 2024

The article considers and theoretically analyzes a complex of methodological approaches to the professional training of future specialists in physical culture and sports in modern universities of Ukraine. It is substantiated that methodological approaches fulfill a system-forming role in the professional training of future specialists, and their comprehensive use in the educational process contributes to the increasing of efficiency and competitiveness of graduates in the market of physical education and health-preserving services. It’s proven that the competency-based approach in the professional training of future specialist of physical culture and sports is aimed at the development and formation of key and subject competencies of the individual; the result is the formation of general competencies or professionalism, including both key and subject competencies, and serves as an integrated personality characteristic. This characteristic is formed in the process of learning and covers knowledge, skills, attitude, activity experience, values and models of personality behavior. The systematic approach to the training of specialists in the field of physical culture and sports is determined as one of the key methodological foundations, as it allows considering the pedagogical process as a unified system with all interconnections between its components; the effectiveness of the functioning of such a system depends on both its ultimate goal and internal structure. The cultural approach in the system of professional education is interpreted as a set of theoretical and methodological principles in combination with organizational and pedagogical measures aimed at creating conditions for mastering and transmitting values and methods that contribute to the creative self-realization of a personality of physical culture and sports in the professional sphere. The cultural approach as a specific scientific methodology of cognition and transformation is based on axiology – the doctrine of values and the value structure of the world, actualizing the importance of the axiological approach, the essence of which is in directing professional education to the formation of a system of values among applicants that determine their attitude to the world, their own activities and to themselves as individuals and specialists. The essence of the acmeological approach is to determine ways to achieve competence; focus on humanistic development of the individual through the use of specific educational subjects; taking into account the motives, values and goals of a specialist in choosing ways of activity. Specific methodological approaches are focused on certain goals of professional training of future specialists in physical culture and sports.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus and vascular complications
Authors:   Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, 6000, 11 Armeiska Str., Bulgaria, Petkova- Parlapanska1 K. V. , Georgieva E. D. ,   Department of General and Clinical Pathology, Forensic Medicine, Deontology and Dermatovenerology, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, 11 Armeiska Str., 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Karamalakova Y. D. ,   Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, 6000, 11 Armeiska Str., Bulgaria, Goycheva P. I. ,   Propaedeutic of Internal Diseases Department, Medical Faculty, Trakia University Hospital, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Nikolova G. D. ,   Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, 6000, 11 Armeiska Str., Bulgaria
Published: August 2024

Diabetes mellitus and its complications have imposed a significant burden on public health. High death rates in type 2 diabetes are linked to vascular complications, with the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke tripling in patients with this illness. Oxidative stress can lead to the dysfunction of the advanced glycation end products and the receptor for advanced glycation end products. This study aims to examine potential biomarkers for the early development of vascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study included 67 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.3. They were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of macroangiopathic vascular complications. To evaluate the oxidative stress in the studied groups, nitric oxide (NO•) radicals were investigated by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and GPx, eNOS, TNF-α, and TGF-β with ELISA kits following the manufacturer’s instructions. All studied parameters were compared with 35 healthy controls. In summary, the presented results show that high levels of ROS in T2DM and diabetic patients with vascular complications lead to increased levels of NO radicals, depletion of antioxidant enzymes, and increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, TGF-β) which interfere with induced migratory responses and contribute to dysfunction.
Neuroprotective effect of Silybum marianum in brain regions after experimental ochratoxicosis
Authors:   Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, 11 Armeiska Str., 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Karamalakova Y. D. , Georgieva E. D. ,   Department of General and Clinical pathology, Forensic medicine, Deontology and Dermatovenerology, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, 11 Armeiska Str., 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Petkova-Parlapanska K. V. ,   Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, 11 Armeiska Str., 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Ivanov V. A. ,   Department of Social medicine, Health management and Disaster medicine, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, 11 Armeiska Str., 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Nikolova G. D. ,   Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, 11 Armeiska Str., 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Published: August 2024

Silybum marianum L. (SM) was investigated for its possible protective effect against ochratoxin A-induced (OTA) toxicity in mice brain. OTA instigates oxidative changes leading to reactive oxygen/ nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) overproduction. SM oral administration prevents the physiological abnormalities and improves the oxidative stress parameters in the cerebral cortex (CX) and cerebellum (CB). Moreover, analysis showed that SM administration decreased ROS production and DNA genotoxicity in the brain regions, even in the OTA group. The significantly increased SOD and CAT activities in SM and SM + OTA groups confirm the positive neuroprotective effect of SM on the cellular antioxidant system. The results suggested that SM protects against OTA-induced brain oxidative disorders and other abnormalities.
Evaluation of preliminary physico-chemical parameters and biometric characteristics of the "Stendesto" plum-apricot hybrid with reference to its parental lines
Authors:   University of Food Technologies, Department of Catering and Nutrition, 26 Maritza Blvd., 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Popova A. T. , Mihaylova D. S. ,   University of Food Technologies, Department of Biotechnology, 26 Maritza Blvd., 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Doykina P. B. ,   University of Food Technologies, Department of Catering and Nutrition, 26 Maritza Blvd., 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Pandova S. Y. ,   Fruit Growing Institute, Agricultural Academy, Departmеnt of Breeding and Genetic Resources, 12 Ostromila Str., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Published: August 2024

Prunus spp. are economically important stone fruits with hybrid potential. The “Stendesto” is the only successful plum-apricot hybrid registered in Bulgaria. Information about its features is rather scarce in the available scientific databases. The “Stendesto” comes from the “Modesto” apricot and the “Stanley” plum. In this study, classical methods were used in order to provide preliminary knowledge about the hybrid, with reference to its parental lines. The color parameters, as well as total soluble solids, pH, ash and moisture contents, water activity, and biometric data (weight, size, thickness, length, and width) were evaluated. The results show that the moisture content is comparable between the three fruits, and the fruit weight had the highest values for the “Modesto” apricot, while the “Stendesto” stood in the middle. Microscopic images of the fruits were also provided for better evaluation. The results show that physically the “Stendesto” is more similar to the “Stanley” plum than to the “Modesto” apricot. This study considered a pilot on the topic of plumapricot hybrids in Bulgaria and sets ground for further research on their phytochemical composition and related biological activities.
The Shift From Work-life Balance To Work-life Integration.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Butler Annie
Published: August 2024

This thesis focuses on the shift from work-life balance to work-life integration. The term ‘work-life balance’ was first introduced in Ireland in the mid-1980s, outlining the significance of balance between employees’ work and personal life activities. Studies on work-life balance most often show that work and life are perceived as mutually exclusive domains that are constantly competing for an individual’s time or energy. Work-life balance practices improve employee motivation and enhance their job performance and commitment. For employers, these policies are essential to maintaining an edge over competitors, and necessary to retain highly qualified staff Flexible working is seen as one of the most important facets of maintaining a good work-life balance; however, this has led to the integration of work and personal life. Work-life integration refers to when professionals blend what they do both personally and professionally, and suggests that work and life are incorporated into one fulfilling purpose. The primary aim of this research is to explore the extent of the shift from work-life balance to work-life integration, and also investigate the effects of this shifting trend. The study focuses on a cross section of different demographics, genders, occupations and personal circumstances. Based on the findings of the literature review, and the philosophy underlying this study, the choice of research strategy for this dissertation was the quantitative method. A questionnaire was used to provide quantitative data in this research, and a pilot study was conducted prior to distributing the questionnaire to the full research sample. The findings of this study show that there has been a shift to a more integrated work-life, but also that there are negative consequences associated with this shift, such as stress, burnout and workaholism. It is notable that while this changing trend seems to be impacting negatively on some employees, this is ultimately a change that the employee wants. Employees are aware of the danger of blurring the lines between work and life, but are willing to accept this in order to choose a routine that best suits their needs. A solid foundation of trust between the employee and the employer is crucial in facilitating and implementing any practices or policies around work-life fusion and integration. An employee who is willing to demonstrate their flexibility to the company should be rewarded with the same flexibility in return.
The Geometry Of The Space Of Oriented Geodesics Of Hyperbolic 3-space
Authors:   ,   Institute of Technology Tralee, Georgiou Nikos
Published: August 2024

"In this thesis we construct a Kähler structure (J, Ω, G) on the space L(H3) of oriented geodesics of hyperbolic 3-space H3 and investigate its properties. We prove that (L(H3),J) is biholomorphic to (see thesis pdf), and that the Kähler metric G is of neutral signature, conformally flat and scalar flat. We establish that the identity component of the isometry group of the metric G on L(H3) is isomorphic to the identity component of the hyperbolic isometry group. We show that the geodesics of G correspond to ruled minimal surfaces in H3, which are totally geodesic iff the geodesics are null. We then study 2-dimensional submanifolds of the space L(H3) of oriented geodesics of hyperbolic 3-space, endowed with the canonical neutral Kähler structure. Such a surface is Lagrangian iff there exists a surface in H3 orthogonal to the geodesics of Σ. We prove that the induced metric on a Lagrangian surface in L(H3) has zero Gauss curvature iff the orthogonal surfaces in H3 are Weingarten: the eigenvalues of the second fundamental form are functionally related. We then classify the totally null surfaces in L(H3) and recover the well-known holomorphic constructions of flat and CMC 1 surfaces in H3"
A Study Into The Use Of Business Process Reengineering In Re-designing Procurement Processes Within The Southern Health Board
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Dempsey Treasa
Published: August 2024

Prior to undertaking the implementation of an integrated finance and procurement information system, the Southern Health Board (now know as the Health Service Executive - Southern Area) undertook a Business Process Reengineering project to redesign, standardise, streamline, and document their procurement processes. This study examines how useful Business Process Reengineering can be in a public sector environment, using the project undertaken in the Southern Health Board, as a case study. The literature on BPR, in conjunction with the material from the BPR project, and interviews from relevant project team members, is examined. The case study demonstrates that it may be argued that ‘true’ BPR was not possible in the procurement elements of the Irish public health system. However, it demonstrates that the BPR process is an important and useful exercise to change incrementally, and improve, the processes of the organisation. These changes are identified, analysed, and their impact on the procurement process are demonstrated. IV
Investigation Into The Glazing Sector Of The Construction Industry In The Cork Region: To Identify The Main Criteria Used In The Window And Glazing Selection Process
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Mc Avoy Michael
Published: August 2024

"The selection of glazing and windows is an important element in the architecture of a building in terms of both aesthetics and practicality. Other related issues include sustainability, and the potential effects of glazing selection on the environment. It is essential that glazing experts contribute to the design process at an early stage in order to maximise the efficiency of the windows while still allowing architects to create their visions and unique buildings. This study focuses on the current systems used in the window selection process for the Cork region, and will propose changes based on the findings of the research. The findings of this research illustrate that there is a need for the participation of glazing specialists early on in the design stage of building projects, and that without this participation, not all the window selection process criteria will be examined by design teams. The findings of this study show that, currently, there is a lack of knowledge in relation to glazing among those who will have the most influence in the selection of glazing in the Cork region, and more importantly, that there is a tendency to defer the decision on glazing to a point which is too late in the process. This research therefore, recommends a change the window and glazing selection process in order to provide early access to the knowledge which is currently lacking, by the inclusion of window company representatives earlier in the design process. This paper makes recommendations that further research is carried out to establish the knowledge held by the key personnel in window and glazing companies, that the current study should be repeated in other regions of Ireland."
The Development Of A Prototype Robotic Platform On Which Awareness Strategies Can Be Implemented
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Kinsella Sean
Published: August 2024

"This thesis describes the design and development of the hardware and software for a prototype robotic platform on which awareness strategies can be developed. The mobile prototype platform designed over the course of work is capable of operating as a distributed or centralised system. There is no singular definition of awareness for a robotic system and the development of awareness strategies is complex and requires expertise in many scientific disciplines. This paper describes the different types of awareness associated with robotic systems and the technology required to implement this awareness. A review of sensors critical to the development of awareness is conducted and their most important characteristics are defined. The prototype platform developed in this work is controlled by a Motorola DragonballTM VZ processor which runs the μCLinux operating system. Ultrasonic, infrared and compass sensors were integrated to the robotic platform. These sensors were selected to provide the platform with spatial and positional awareness. A flame detector and a light detector were integrated into the system to demonstrate environmental awareness capabilities. The choice of hardware and software ensures that the system is reliable, robust and easily expanded. The device driver software is written in C and supports sensors with pulse width modulated (PWM) outputs, proportional pulse width outputs, digital outputs and logic high-low outputs. Device driver software was also developed to support motor direction and speed control. The system is connected via Bluetooth^^’ to a desktop computer where a GUI displays a representation of the robot and its position in the environment. Testing and experimentation shows that the prototype robotic system is suitable for the development of awareness strategies."
A Middleware For True Mobile Agents In Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Lynch Ciarán
Published: August 2024

"The application space of wireless sensor networks has evolved considerably from their initial role as an efficient data gathering system. Modern wireless sensor networks are expected to be dynamic, powerful. reliable and flexible, while continuing to operate efficiently and autonomously. The supporting software' systems have not kept pace with this development, and currently limits the deployment of complex and robust applications. Mobile software agents present a powerful approach to application design, however no existing middleware for wireless sensor networks supports native mobile software agents. The main contribution of the work presented in this thesis is the development and evaluation of a middleware supporting powerful mobile software agents for wireless sensor networks. A hybrid memory allocation strategy is developed to encapsulate the mobile agent, a code caching strategy is used to reduce unnecessary transmission and directed movement is used to simplify agents and to allow attribute-based movement and operation. These improvements act to reduce the overall energy consumption of the agent system. A number of application scenarios are used to evaluate the system performance. The primary defining characteristic of wireless sensor network systems is their low energy consumption, and the proposed system demonstrates lower-power operation than existing mobile agent systems in environments where complex, mobile, in-network processing, control or actuation are required, particularly when code caching can be exploited. This is best demonstrated by the reliable control system, that is capable of dynamically adapting to a changing topology, reliably recovering from node and communication failures while continuing to provide application functionality in unaffected systems, while still leaving enough resource free to allow independent applications to run on the wireless sensor network."
Manipulation Tools For Laser-cooled Rubidium Atoms : Ultrathin Optical Fibres And Magnetic Diffraction Gratings / Michael J. Morrissey.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Morrissey Michael
Published: August 2024

This thesis describes the construction and characterisation of a standard six-beam configuration magneto-optical trap (MOT) used to cool and trap neutral 85Rb atoms. This system is capable of producing a cloud of ~108 atoms whose average temperature is in the sub-Doppler range. The fabrication process for the production of subwavelength tapered optical nanofibres (TONFs) is also described, as well as their guiding properties. These have many proposed applications in the field of cold atoms. However, significant technical progress must be made before many of these applications can be realised. The objective of the research work was to combine the TONF with the cold atom setup to develop tapered optical nanofibres as a tool that can be used in cold atom experiments. This thesis presents a novel technique to measure the characteristics of a MOT by monitoring the spontaneous emission from the trapped atoms coupled into the guided mode of the TONF. This has allowed the measurement of cloud profile, loading times and decay times. This serves as a demonstration that TONFs can indeed play an important role in cold atom physics. The work presented here also describes a theoretical model for an atom diffraction grating based on oscillating magnetic fields produced by an array of current carrying wires.
Thermal Envelope Analysis Of Local Authority Low Rise Housing Based On Stock Aggregation Theory Using A Remote Feature Extraction Technique.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Pittam James
Published: August 2024

"Understanding the buildings thermal envelope is paramount to analysing existing problems which facilitate cold bridging and low surface temperatures. As no detailed housing stock database is in existence in Ireland which describes the geometrical configuration of the existing housing stock, and to create one would be a major challenge, this research set out to develop a high speed remote cataloguing and geometrical data extraction methodology to build such a database. Replacing traditional measurement methods with a remote method allows for the rapid extraction of fagade information. A remote surveying process is proposed named, the Virtual Survey Method, for the classification of the existing housing stock to provide a foundation platform of information. Building on this platform a Remote Cataloguing, Measurement and Mapping method (RCMM) is proposed, to extract detailed geometrical information from each terrace typology. Terrace facades are then vectorised to map the locations of a defined set of construction details according to envelope category, elevation and orientation interfaces, providing a simplified detail quantification methodology for use in energy efficient retrofit decision support. The RCMM uses photogrammetric techniques for measurement extraction, through the use of static panoramic viewports from Google Street View© and aerial spot images from Google Earth©. This approach speeds up the survey process and generates a classification of the housing stock, and geometrical databases remotely. This is the first study to develop house archetypes using a fully remote process to characterise the case study housing stock. The terraced housing stock from 1930 to 1982 can be characterised by five detailed house archetypes. This study is also the first study to include a detailed bottom-up level of geometrical characteristics, capable of pin pointing energy loss to specific thermal bridging locations. The proposed remote methodology can be used to develop a highly detailed national database which would reduce uncertainty in the level of accuracy in housing databases. The advantage to using the proposed method over a traditional method is time and expense with the proposed method being up to four times faster than using a traditional method."
The Structure Of Work Placement In A Third-level Accounting Programme : Employers' Perspective
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, O'Callaghan Laura
Published: August 2024

"Extant literature on the benefits of work placement extols the virtues of embedding work placement in accounting degree programmes, not only for the students, but also for the employers. It provides employers with an extended period to vet students for graduate position (Gault et al, 2000; Beard, 2007), a cost-effective solution to hiring for short-term projects (Ferkins, 2002) and a valuable link with local colleges (Gault et al, 2000; Me Gann and Anderson, 2012). However, there is a dearth of literature exploring how placement should be structured to maximise these benefits (Buckley and El Amond, 2010; Sheridan and Linehan, 2003). This study explores three aspects of the employers ’ perspective of the structure of work placement in accounting degree programme; their requirements of students entering work placement, the appropriate duration and timing of placement and the support they could offer interns. The empirical data was collected by way of an online survey of employers, resulting in responses from fifty-three potential employers of accounting interns, and five in-depth interviews with potential employers to obtain rich descriptive data. A strong preference exists amongst respondents to recruiting interns for accounting roles from Accountancy/Finance programmes rather than other degree programmes. Employers view ability to work in a team, good academic results and communication skills as important requirements of an intern when entering work placement. Employers prefer students with previous work experience, but it did not have to he relevant accounting experience. The ideal duration and timing of placement for employers was a six month placement from January to June (with the employer having the option to keep the student on in the organisation over the summer if required), in the third year of a four year degree programme. The majority of respondents would offer interns regular feedback and coaching, however only half of the respondents would provide an exit interview. Advice could be offered to the intern regarding accountancy qualifications. These findings contribute to improving the structure of work placement in accounting degree programmes. As employers see work placement as primarily an early recruitment mechanism, it may lose some of the possible benefit to the students. It is important that a tripartite agreement is constructed and agreed to by the employer, college and student to ensure that the learning outcomes of work placement are clear to all parties and adhered to throughout the work placement period."
Investigating The Parameters That Influence The Particle Mass Concentration Rates In A Grade C Cleanroom.
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Baker Nazar
Published: August 2024

"The cleanroom design engineers use the guidelines tables, in which the Air Change Rates (ACHs) are determined based on the room cleanliness class. These guidelines are based on experience and do not fully address many other critical variables that influence the particulate level and particle distribution. These simplified approaches could often cause significant energy waste. In the last five decades, a number of mathematical models were developed to determine the airflow required in cleanrooms. As a consequence of the approximation of many critical variables in these models, these models can only be used as a qualitative indicator of the airflow required due to approximation. As a result of the lack of accurate mathematical models, these guidelines are still in operation today. The main objective of this work is to quantitatively investigate the most significant variables that influence the particulate concentration levels inside a grade C cleanrooms using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques. The CFD model was developed and verified using the Grid Independence Index method (GCl). The accuracy of the Eulerian-Lagrangian simulation was evaluated by comparison with published experimental data. In achieving this objective, the European Union Guide to Good Manufacturing Practice (EU GGMP) has been adopted by imposing constraints on the CFD models variable parameter space. The method involves, the definition of a reduced parameter state space using both Dimensional Analysis Buckingham — n theorem, and Design of Experi- ment(DOE). Statistical software “Minitab 17” was used to generate the design matrix, as well as, to develop the response mathematical model. The work completed in this thesis shows that the particle mass concentration rate in the model room can be controlled by a number of parameters depending on the particle size. For fine particles of size 0.5 μm the particle mass concentration rate can be controlled by varying the inlet supply and outlet exhaust configurations. For a coarse particle of size 5.0 μm diameter, the gowning regimes, as well as the location of the outlet exhausts in terms of high or low sidewall level, play a significant role in reducing the particle mass concentration in the room. Also, it was found that the effectiveness of increasing the inlet air velocity in reducing the particle mass concentration rate depends on the outlet exhaust locations at a sidewall level and particle density."
Renovating A Control Engineering Laboratory For Enhanced Learning
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Hamilton David
Published: August 2024

"In an attempt to both place the student at the centre of the learning process and thus improve student engagement with the discipline, and to incorporate professional skills into the engineering curriculum at the module level, an enquiry based learning (EBL) component to enhance teamwork, problem solving skills and the student’s ability to learn independently was developed using current best practice in teaching and learning. As EBL is not widely used in engineering curricula in CIT, a pilot scale three week trial was performed during the academic year 2007-08 to evaluate the appropriateness of the pedagogy and student reactions to the change. The trial utilised a HP Inkjet Printer to provide an authentic, real world, problem, as the vehicle for enquiry and within this context student groups were asked to design and implement a control system for either the carriage or paper feed system. The effectiveness of the intervention was initially evaluated through questionnaires and interviews. The results of the questionnaires and interviews indicated that students had very positive attitudes towards the intervention and were unanimous in their opinion that additional modules should adopt this approach. The student cohort perceived that their professional/transfcrable skills of teamwork, communication and information retrieval were especially enhanced by the EBL component. In general, students perceived that the printer apparatus was superior to traditional laboratory equipment as it was ‘real-world’ and closer to the discipline area. Upon completion of the module these students embarked on a six month work placement and were reinterviewed on return, to complete a cycle of skills development, industrial application and reflective evaluation. Again the main outcomes were that students believed that the selected skill set was relevant to an industrial setting and that the EBL component was effective in developing these skills. In addition, this thesis presents a comprehensive evaluation of the Inkjet Printer apparatus as a vehicle for enquiry in control engineering. The evaluation may be viewed as a blueprint for designing an EBL control systems module, or alternatively decomposed to generate a series of laboratory sessions that range from the traditional build/test to higher order identify/design/evaluate experiences. The learning resources utilised which are aligned with international best practice are detailed, the equipment used is inexpensive and globally available, and thus can be easily replicated internationally and tailored to suit local contexts. To further enhance the student experience, a website providing simulation and remote experimentation using the printer, was designed and implemented, using the existing resources available within the Department."
Cruise Tourism : The Cork Perspective
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Untea Lavina
Published: August 2024

Cruise industry has presented an energetic and lively development in recent years. However, the research conducted in Ireland on the topic of Cruise Tourism is inadequate. This research study aims to close a gap in the Irish tourism literature, as there was no other similar research previously done in Ireland. The researcher intends to find what is relevant and meaningful for the present and future cruise tourism in the Cork region, from the perspective of the key stakeholders. The author hopes to provide the relevant officials with a background in the cruise tourism in Cork and enlighten them on the potential of Cork Harbour. The current thesis is the result of a two-year research journey, a requirement for the completion of the Masters of Business. This investigation was exploratory In nature, and the author aimed to understand the research topic from the perspective of the contributors participating in the interviews conducted as part of the primary research. The researcher has chosen a single qualitative data collection technique to answer the research questions and achieve the objectives of this study. The views of the participants to this research are presented and used to elaborate on the findings and recommendations of the current study. The present study has found that Cork is not entirely aware of its potential in the cruise market. Local businesses have difficulties trying to capitalise on the cruise tourism market. This research identified the key stakeholders in the region and noted their desire to sustain the development of the sector considered as beneficial for the area. The author has found that Irish Ports are competing and recommends cooperation to grow Ireland as an independent cruise destination. This research has identified the potential of the Port of Cork to achieve a home port status and attract turnaround cruises into the region, a major Income generating factor for the area. Therefore, the author concludes that a well-considered joint strategy needs to be embraced and funded to position Cork as an engaging, charming, secure and appealing cruise destination.
Ultrafast Carrier Dynamics Of An Inas/gaas Semiconductor Quantum Dot Absorber
Authors:   ,   Cork Institute of Technology, Madden Gillian
Published: August 2024

High-speed semiconductor quantum dot saturable absorbers have dramatically improved lasers to generate ultrafast optical pulses with a diverse range of applications. The carrier escape and relaxation dynamics of an InAs/GaAs quantum dot absorber waveguide were investigated using a heterodyne pump-probe spectroscopy technique. The measurements of the absorption recovery of the quantum dot waveguide were performed under applied reverse bias utilising both single-colour and two-colour pump probe spectroscopy. The study revealed differences in the intradot relaxation dynamics related to the initial population of the ground state or the excited state of the quantum dots. It was concluded that phonon mediated recovery dominates if the ground state is initially populated and that Auger-mediated recovery dominates if the excited state is initially populated.
UŞAQLARDA PARODONT TOXUMALARININ İLTİHABİ XƏSTƏLİKLƏRİNİN MÜALİCƏSİNDƏ LOROBENİN EFFEKTİVLİYİ
Authors: Иманов Э.А.
Published: August 2024

В статье представлена информация об исследованиях с целью лечения и профилактики заболеваний пародонта. Были обследованы 103 детей школьного возраста с заболеваниями тканей пародонта. Из них 67 человек были больны хроническим катаральным гингивитом и 36 человек — хроническим пародонтитом легкой степени. Результаты клинических и лабораторных исследований показали, что в процессе проведения лечебно-профилактических мероприятий во время использования препарата лоробен была значительно восстановлена функциональная активность местных иммунных факторов. При комплексном лечении этих больных с применением препарата лоробен, наблюдалось более выраженное улучшение показателей, чем при применении раствора хлоргексидина биглюконата.

Məqalədə parodont toxumalarının xəstəliklərinin müalicə və profilaktikası məqsədilə aparılan tədqiqat haqqında məlumat verilmişdir. Tədqiqata xronik kataral gingivit (XKG) və yüngül dərəcəli xronik parodontit (YDXP) diaqnozlu 103 uşaq cəlb edilmişdir. Onlardan 67 nəfərdə xronik kataral gingivit, 36 nəfərdə yüngül dərəcəli xronik parodontit olmuşdur. Müalicə-profilaktik tədbirlərin nəticələri hər üç qrupda klinik müşahidələr və obyektiv sınaqlar (OHİ-S, PMA, Pİ əmsalları və SBİ indeksi) əsasında da qiymətləndirilmişdir. Bundan başqa, xəstələrdə parodontal ciblərin mikroflorası və yerli immunitet göstəricilərinin tədqiq edilmişdir. Klinik və laborator tədqiqatların nəticələri göstərmişdir ki, Loroben məhlulunun istifadəsi ilə aparılmış müalicə-profilaktika tədbirləri, xlorheksidin-biqlukonat məhlulu ilə aparılan müalicəyə nisbətən daha effektiv olmuş, yerli immunitet faktorlarının funksional fəallığı daha çox bərpa edilmişdir.

The article provides information about a study conducted for the treatment and prevention of periodontal tissue diseases. The study involved 103 children diagnosed with chronic catarrhal gingivitis (CCG) and mild chronic periodontitis (MCP). Among them, 67 had chronic catarrhal gingivitis, and 36 had mild chronic periodontitis. The results of the treatment-preventive measures were evaluated in all three groups based on clinical observations and objective tests (OHI-S, PMA, PI ratios, and SBI index). Additionally, the microflora of the patients' periodontal pockets and local immunity indicators were investigated. The results of clinical and laboratory studies showed that treatment-preventive measures carried out with Loroben solution were more effective compared to those conducted with chlorhexidine-bigluconate solution. The functional activity of local immunity factors was more significantly recovered.