bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improving aeration systems in saline water (part II): effect of different salts and diffuser type on oxygen transfer of fine-bubble aeration systems
Authors: Behnisch J. , Schwarz M. , Trippel J. , Engelhart M. , Wagner M. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The objective of the present study is to investigate the different effects on the oxygen transfer of fine-bubble aeration systems in saline water. Compared to tap water, oxygen transfer increases due to the inhibition of bubble coalescence. In Part I of the present study, we investigated in laboratory-scale experiments the effect of design of diffuser membrane. The objective of Part II is the assessment of effects of different salts, diffuser type and diffuser density. We measured the concentration of various salts (MgCl2; CaCl2; Na2SO4; NaCl; KCl) above which coalescence is fully inhibited and oxygen transfer reaches its maximum (referred to as the critical coalescence concentration; CCC). For this purpose, we developed a new analytical approach, which enables investigation of the coalescence behaviour of any aeration system and (mixed) salt solution quickly and easily by evaluating the results of oxygen transfer tests. To investigate the transferability to large scale and the effect of diffuser type and density, we repeated lab-scale experiments in a 17,100 L pilot-scale test tank and carried out additional tests with tube and plate diffusers at different diffuser densities. The results show that despite the higher pressure drop, diffusers with dense slit density and smaller slits are to be recommended in order to improve efficiency of aeration systems in saline water.
Reseña. Políticas Públicas. Enfoque estratégico para América Latina, de José Luis Méndez Martínez
Authors: Vargas Hernández Brayant Armando 
Published: May 2021

Reseña del texto Políticas Públicas. Enfoque estratégico para América Latina, de José Luis Méndez Martínez, editado por el Fondo de Cultura Económica y El Colegio de México
Nyutdannede læreres opplevelse av læreryrket
Authors: Brandmo Christian , Tiplic Dijana 
Published: May 2021

Beginning teachers’ job perceptions
Over the last decade, the lack of qualified teachers in schools has been the subject of both research and political debate in many countries. In this study, we have investigated the factors that predict beginning teachers’ perceptions of job satisfaction, stress, and thoughts about quitting the job. The sample consisted of a total of 597 beginning teachers (65% women) from Norway. The results show that women experience higher job satisfaction and more stress at work than men do. The beginning teachers who said teaching was their first choice of career reported higher satisfaction with the profession and had fewer thoughts about quitting. Furthermore, the results show that beginning teachers are more satisfied than their more experienced colleagues with the profession and their school, a trend that was also reported by TALIS 2013. When it comes to beginning teachers’ own competence, the results show that self-efficacy in classroom management is significantly related to both higher satisfaction with their school and less stress. Regarding organizational factors, the findings show that commitment to and support from the school organisation are significantly related to higher satisfaction with the workplace. The study has several implications for school leaders and decision makers.
The Competence of Professors of Physical and Sports Education in the Use of Modern Teaching Strategies for Middle School Under the Second Generation Curriculum
Authors: Abdarahmane Bengueneb , Ahmed Atallah , Bendehiba Djourdem 
Published: May 2021

Summary
The study aims at identifying the degree of competency of the teacher of physical education and sports in using modern teaching strategies in light of what was stipulated by the second generation. The Study sample consists of 60 intermediate education teachers, and relies on a list prepared by the research team consisting of two axises, each axis containing 16 items that include familiarity with and employing modern strategies in the study of physical education and sports, as well as the general organization of the lesson the data are processed statistically using the arithmetic means standard deviation, and the results showed that the teachers of Physical education and sports in middle school do not use modern teaching strategies. This is due to their lack of competence.
Craniocervical flexion performance in computer users: An observational study
Authors: Patrao Ashmita Iora Davania , Correa Stephanie M , Kerkar Prachi Prakash , Vishal Kavitha 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Study aim: To compare the performance of deep cervical flexors (DCF) among computer users (CU) and non-users using the craniocervical flexion test (CCFT).

Material and methods: Eighty nine computer users and 100 non-users were recruited for evaluation of their craniocervical muscle performance. The activation score and performance index were assessed using the CCFT. Comparison of craniocervical flexor performance between the two groups was evaluated using the Mann Whitney test. A Chi-Square test was used to test the association between age, years of work and craniocervical flexion. Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results: The median activation score was lower among computer users (median pressure-24 mmHg as compared to non-users (median pressure-28 mmHg) (p < 0.01). The performance index among computer users was lower when compared to non-users. Also, age (p < 0.001) and the years of work experience (p = 0.006) were associated with the DCF performance.

Conclusion: CU have lower activation and endurance of the DCF compared to non-users. The endurance of the DCF was associated with the age and years of computer usage.
Pastophorium in the Church of St. Catherine in Handlova in the Context of the Morphology of Gothic Pastophoria of Slovakia
Authors: Grúňová Zuzana 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The project Geometric Analysis of Architectural Elements of Gothic Architecture in Handlová and its surroundings was dedicated to the documentation of stone Gothic elements of sacral buildings. The aim was to make photographs and drawings for the needs of maintenance and restoration of monuments and also to process geometric analyzes of suitable stone elements. Knowledge of the geometric construction, which is the basis of the design process, can help the correct renewal and presentation, possibly with the addition of missing parts or correction of previous inappropriate interventions. The article is focused on one type of element - pastophorium - niche, a box for storing sacral objects and the Eucharist hosts and its forms in the Gothic churches of Slovakia. The various forms of Gothic pastophorias in terms of the shape and context of the supporting wall of the temple and the stone decoration of the niche / box are briefly pointed out. Geometric analysis of one of the studied pastophores - in the church of St. Katarína in Handlová - forms the conclusion of the article.
Bending Performance of Half-Slab Styrofoam Mortar with Glazed Nylon Fiber
Authors: Solikin Mochamad , Falah Muhammad Fajrul , Sunarjono Sri , Hidayati Nurul , Trinugroho Suhendro , Sutanto Muslich Hartadi , Asnan Muhammad Noor 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This paper scrutinizes bending performance of light weight half-slab mortar against bending and punching load. To produce the slab, 30 % round bud Styrofoam was used as fine aggregate substitution. Besides, glazed nylon fiber was applied to increase its tension strength and cavities at tension area of slab were also created. This method results in the significant reduction of self-weight of half-slab, while the cavities do not affect its bending performance and the fiber increases its ductility. Furthermore, the lower result of punching test should not to be a disadvantage as the slab is primarily to be used as a formwork.
Midblock U-Turn and Elevated U-Turn Safety and Economy Comparison: A Case Study Application
Authors: Ahmed Osama H. , Ramadan Ibrahim M. I. , Abdel-Monem Mohamed S. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
In Egypt, intersections are encountering congestion and safety problems. Midblock U-turns have been used for solving these problems. The midblock U-turn increased the accidents, besides, it has limited capacity. In the last decade, elevated U-turns have been applied to solve these problems. The extensive use of elevated U-turns has not been accompanied by any research for studying the performance of elevated U-turns with respect to safety and economy. This paper developed a simple framework for comparing elevated and traditional midblock U-turns in terms of safety and economy. The study applied a case study to evaluate the two alternatives using a benefit-cost analysis technique. Although the results show the high cost of the elevated U-turns, it has been demonstrated to be the best solution since they provide the greater traffic capacity and lower accident rates. Accident number reported at elevated U-turns was 59 % less than the number associated with traditional U-turns.
Fragility Curve Analysis of Medium Cable Stayed Bridge
Authors: Masrilayanti Masrilayanti , Nasution Ade Prayoga , Kurniawan Ruddy , Tanjung Jafril , Sarmayenti Sarmayenti 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The seismic performance of a bridge can be shown by analyzing the vulnerability of the structure in resisting an earthquake motion and then developing into fragility curves. This study presents a convenient method to establish the fragility curve for the cable-stayed bridge. For this purpose, three spans cable-stayed bridge is assessed using a series of seismic loads in different intensities to ensure that the structure was experiencing damage in several conditions. The fragility curve was obtained by analyzing the structure using Nonlinear Time History (NTHA) and Pushover Analysis. The ground motions of the earthquake were subjected to the bridge in different intensities, which were scaled from the initial ground motion. Hereafter, the structure’s ductilities were developed into the fragility curves as the responses of the bridge. HAZUS standard is used for classifying the damages of the bridge, which are grouped into; slight, moderate, extensive, and complete due to the seismic load. The values of the damage states were generated to the fragility curves using the probabilistic values of the damage states. To ensure the validity of the data statistically, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was conducted to the fragility function. The result revealed that the fragility curve was qualified as the lognormal distribution.
Modified Reed Equation of Blast Load on Plate with Stiffener
Authors: Buwono Haryo Koco , Alisjahbana Sofia W. , Najid  
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to analyze numerically the effect of explosions on orthotropic slabs which have partial fixity placement and stiffeners in the x direction, namely in the short span direction. The modified blast load dynamic behavior is from Reed’s equation with 4th order polynomial on orthotropic plates with x-direction stiffener. The localized blast load centered in the middle of the strain, and the effects of thickness and stiffening on the vertical deflection of the plates are solved numerically using two auxiliary equations in the x and y-directions. It is found that there is vertical deflection with related to time.
Study of Biofilter Planted with Basil for Removal of Ammonia in Aquaponic Water
Authors: Mulay Bharat Nandkumar , Reddy Konda Rajasekhar 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This experimental investigation of a laboratory scale aquaponic system included testing of a biofilter with basil plant as the biofilter part on aquaculture water quality. Irridescent shark was selected as aquaculture species. The biofilter consist of natural biomaterials such as coconut husk, coco peat, and coarse aggregates. The experiment was carried out for three short water recirculation durations of 2, 3, and 4 h/day. The influent and effluent ammonia NH3, total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), nitrites NO2 and nitrates NO3 levels were measured and analysed. The results showed that the biofilter effectively removed NH3 (65 - 71 %), TAN (34 - 58 %), and NO2 (60 - 67 %) from the aquaculture water. The dissolved oxygen (DO) levels were maintained between 3 - 7.0 mg/l during all the recirculation durations. The significance of water recirculation period was assessed by calculating the differences between the means of water quality parameters with a statistical test named one-way analysis of variance (ANNOVA) with significant level P taken as 5 %, i.e., P ≤ 0.5. The effluent mean NH3 levels 0.030 mg/l, 0.033 mg/l, and 0.022 mg/l exhibited significant difference at 4 h/d periods while effluent TAN levels 0.81, 0.77, and 0.77 showed no difference with varying periods.
Capacity Model for Single-Lane Minor Entry at Turbo-Roundabouts
Authors: Kociánová Andrea 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Spirally arranged and physically separated traffic lanes in the circulatory carriageway of turbo-roundabouts force drivers to choose a particular entry lane and, subsequently, a circulatory traffic lane according to their intended destination. This specificity is taken into account in theoretical capacity models for two-lane turbo-roundabout entries typically evaluated by the lane-by-lane approach. Nevertheless, this specific path of movements is not considered in the most widely used capacity models for single-lane minor entries at oval turbo-roundabouts. In these models, only one entering traffic flow conflicted by two circulating traffic flows in front of the entry is considered. However, the entering traffic flow presents a mixed traffic flow of two movements (right-turning movement and left-turning and through movement) with different capacities due to different number of conflicting traffic streams and traffic volumes allocated into the outer and the inner circulatory lane. This fact is included in the capacity estimation for a single-lane minor entry presented in the article using the existing capacity formula for the mixed traffic flow on a shared minor lane at unsignalized intersections. The entry capacity reflects the proportion of the right-turning movement within a shared entry lane as well as the specific allocation of circulating traffic flow into the outer and the inner circulatory lane. This entry capacity is about 10 % to 30 % higher compared to a single-lane entry capacity estimated according to commonly used models described in the article. Higher entry capacity in a higher proportion of the right-turning traffic within mixed entry traffic flow is confirmed also by the results of average delays estimated by the theoretical delay model and microsimulation.
Impact of National Debt Burden on Economic Stability in Nigeria
Authors: Onyele Kingsley Onyekachi , Nwadike Emmanuel Chijioke 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The study argues that national debt becomes a burden when debt overhang is rising, a foreign reserve is inadequate to cover short-term external debt and government revenue is inadequate for debt servicing. This paper investigates the impact of national debt burden on economic stability in Nigeria. Data spanning from 1981 to 2019 have been collated from the World Development Indicators and Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin, 2019 edition. Consequently, the variables used to measure debt burden are total debt-to-GDP ratio (debt overhang), short-term external debt-to-reserves ratio (reserve adequacy) and debt service cost-to-government revenue ratio (revenue adequacy) with exchange rate as a control variable, while economic stability is measured with real GDP growth rate. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model is used for the analysis since the variables are stationary at both levels and first difference. The ARDL estimation shows that the explanatory variables collectively cause a diminishing impact on economic stability in the long run with revenue adequacy having a negative and significant impact. In the short run, all the components of debt burden, except debt overhang, have a negative and significant impact on economic stability. Under this circumstance, exchange rate has a positive and significant impact on economic stability in the long run.
Strictness vs. flexibility: Simulation-based recognition of strategies and its success in soccer
Authors: Perl J. , Imkamp J. , Memmert D. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Introduction: Recognition and optimization of strategies in sport games is difficult in particular in case of team games, where a number of players are acting “independently” of each other. One way to improve the situation is to cluster the teams into a small number of tactical groups and to analyze the interaction of those groups. The aim of the study is the evaluation of the applicability of SOCCER© simulation in professional soccer by analyzing and simulation of the tactical group interaction.
Methods: The players’ positions of tactical groups in soccer can be mapped to formation-patterns and then reflect strategic behaviour and interaction. Based on this information, Monte Carlo-Simulation allows for generating strategies, which – at least from the mathematical point of view – are optimal. In practice, behaviour can be orientated in those optimal strategies but normally is changing depending on the opponent team’s activities. Analyzing the game under the aspect of such simulated strategies revealed how strictly resp. flexible a team follows resp. varies strategic patterns.
Approach: A Simulation- and Validation-Study on the basis of 40 position data sets of the 2014/15 German Bundesliga has been conducted to analyze and to optimize such strategic team behaviour in professional soccer.
Results: The Validation-Study demonstrated the applicability of our tactical model. The results of the Simulation-Study revealed that offensive player groups need less tactical strictness in order to gain successful ball possession whereas defensive player groups need tactical strictness to do so.
Conclusion: The strategic behaviour could be recognized and served as basis for optimization analysis: offensive players should play with a more flexible tactical orientation to stay in possession of the ball, whereas defensive players should play with a more planned orientation in order to be successful. The strategic behaviour of tactical groups can be recognized and optimized using Monte Carlo-based analysis, proposing a new and innovative approach to quantify tactical performance in soccer.
Significance of Hypouricaemia in the Development of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Trapp Maximiliane , Mihailova Anna , Kakurina Natalija , Murovska Modra 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Hypouricaemia has received relatively little attention in the literature. As a result, there is less awareness or understanding of the potential risks of low uric acid levels. Emerging research indicates that normal uric acid levels may have an antioxidative and neuroprotective effect. This study aims to investigate possible associations between hypouricaemia and neurodegenerative disease. Data was collected from seventy-seven outpatients and inpatients who underwent routine uric acid testing, who were then stratified into patients with and without neurodegenerative disease. Patients with renal pathologies and patients using uric acid altering medications were excluded from the study. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease between hypouricemic and normouricemic patients (p = 0.001), however there was no difference in the prevalence of vascular dementia (p = 0.45). This study provides evidence that hypouricaemia has potential effects on health, specifically on the rate of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and gives weight to the potential neuroprotective role of uric acid.
Vacuum-Assisted Abdominal Closure in Surgical Emergency: A Single Institution Experience Treating a Cohort with a Prevalence of Faecal Peritonitis
Authors: Skicko Dmitrijs , Gabrāne Baiba , Pupelis Guntars , Šuba Oļegs , Plaudis Haralds 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Vacuum-assisted abdominal closure (VAAC) has evolved as a promising method for treatment of emergent surgical patients. The aim of the study was an assessment of the complication rate and outcomes following routine application of VAAC in a cohort of patients suffering predominantly with peritonitis of the lower gastrointestinal tract (GIT) origin. The prospectively collected data was analysed retrospectively, including demographic data, aetiological factors, comorbid conditions and severity of the disease. The indications for VAAC included complicated intra-abdominal infection, purulent peritonitis with sepsis and/or risk of increased intra-abdominal pressure. In total, 130 patients were managed with VAAC. The median age was 63.5 years, with a predominance of male patients (61.5%). Systemic inflammatory response was present in 68.5%, the median C-reactive protein (CRP) was 239.58 mg/l, Procalcitonin (PCT) level 7.02 ng/ml, and lactate 1.84 mmol/l before intervention. The median Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score was 4 and the Mannheim Peritonitis Index was 26. Sepsis developed in 87.0% of patients, and 43.8% had septic shock. VAAC was applied in 58.5% due to a perforation of the lower GIT, in 26.1% due to perforation of the upper GIT, and in 15.4% for other reasons. A median of two (interquartile range, IQR 1–3) VAAC system changes were performed in a period of 7 (IQR 4–11) days. In 88.6% of cases, multiple types of microorganisms were present. The application of VAAC resulted in a significant decrease of the postoperative SOFA score, and CRP, PCT and lactate levels (p < 0.001). The complications included a “frozen abdomen”, enterocutaneous fistula, intraabdominal abscess and bleeding in 7.7%, 5.4% and 6.0% cases, respectively. Primary abdominal closure was accomplished in 76.2%, resulting in a 23.1% mortality rate. VAAC was found to be safe in the treatment of abdominal sepsis including in patients with faecal peritonitis. Complete abdominal closure can be achieved in the majority of patients resulting in a lower mortality rate.
Acute Complicated Necrotising Pancreatitis Treated with Video-Assisted Retroperitoneal Debridement
Authors: Šapovalovs Sergejs , Ļiņovs Viktors , Gardovskis Andris , Lapsa Sintija , Pavārs Māris , Gardovskis Jānis 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Acute necrotising pancreatitis is a complex disease with high morbidity and mortality rates. In cases of infected necrosis, treatment consists of a step-up approach involving endoscopic or mini-invasive surgical methods. In some cases, there are extremely rare complications. In addition, the underlying comorbidities worsen the course of the disease. We report a case of a 32-year-old male with acute necrotising pancreatitis complicated with recurrent retroperitoneal abscesses, sepsis, iatrogenic pylephlebitis, exacerbation of underlying Crohn’s disease, and the outcome of the treatment was successful. During the period of hospitalisation, one ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage, two computed tomography-guided punctures of the retroperito-neal space (percutaneous and transhepatic) and five video-assisted retroperitoneal debridement procedures were carried out. The patient was discharged after 185 days of hospitalisation.