bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employee Development in Retail Organization
Authors:   Alexander Dubcek University of Trencin, Faculty of Social-Economics Relationship, Študentská 3, 911 50 Trenčín, Slovakia, Kováčová Petra , Drahotský Ondřej ,   Alexander Dubcek University of Trencin, Faculty of Social-Economics Relationship, Študentská 3, 911 50 Trenčín, Slovakia
Published: October 2022

Employee development became one of the key topics in the field of human resources management in current organizations. Taking a prop­er approach to employee and business development in this area can be a source of competitive advantage for organizations. However, few empirical studies have been conducted on the subject matter; there is still a need for further research to be conducted. The research deal with the analysis of the perception of development activi­ties in the retail organization based on a survey conducted through a struc­tured questionnaire survey and analysis of internal company materials. The goal is to point out the perception of development activities by employees based on the survey, as well as to find out the main barriers that prevent em­ployees from their development. The results of the survey show that employees perceive the development on an individual level, the greatest benefit is seen in their professional and personal growth. The employees are interested in development, but only in their working hours, they are interested in training such as foreign language and computers skills. The primary motive for development is financial. The main barrier that prevents employees from their development is time or per­ceived lack of time. Another negative factor is that manager does not check, or control acquired knowledge and skills after training. On the other hand, as a positive result is seen the internal trainer at the training and receiving feedback from the manager on employees’ performance. This paper is created for the retail organization to improve the area of em­ployee development, as well as for scholars researching this topic and others interested in the development of employees in an international company.
Synthesis and Microwave Absorption Properties of (Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4/CI/CB) Ternary Composites
Authors:   National Center on Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Houbi A. , Zharmenov A.A. ,   National Center on Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Atassi Y. ,   Higher Institute for Applied Sciences and Technology, Damascus, Syria, Bagasharova Z.T. ,   National Center on Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Mirzalieva S. ,   National Center on Complex Processing of Mineral Raw Materials of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Karibayev B.A. ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Published: October 2022

In this work, ternary composites of NiZn ferrite/carbonyl iron/carbon black (Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4/CI/CB) were prepared via two stages. Firstly, Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 was prepared by a self-combustion method using sucrose as a fuel. After that, the operation was continued via mixing CB, CI, and Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 through grinding balls. Three various weight ratios of Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4/CI/CB (1:1:1, 1:1:2, and 2:1:1) with various thicknesses (2–4–6 mm) were prepared. The absorbers were prepared by dispersing (Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4/CI/CB) composites with a weight ratio within a paraffin wax matrix of 40 % w/w. X-ray diffractometry and FTIR spectroscopy were used in order to characterize the samples. The morphology of the powders was investigated by SEM. The functional characterization was accomplished by measuring the microwave absorption properties in the fre-quency band of 8.8–12 GHz. The microwave absorption materials (MAMs) showed wide bandwidths under –10 dB in the range of 2.81–3.20 GHz and reasonable surface density in the range of 3.625–4.041 kg/m2. The absorber of 3.20 GHz bandwidth had a minimal reflection loss of –19.4 dB at the matching frequency of 9.92 GHz with a thickness of 6 mm.
ANALISIS KESULITAN SISWA DALAM MENYELESAIKAN SOAL PYTHAGORAS
Authors: Handayani Mia , Mashuri Anwas , Rahmawati Arum Dwi
Published: October 2022

Tujuan dari penelitian ini merupakan untuk melihat seberapa sulit masalah Pythagoras bagi siswa kelas VIII MTS Ma'hadul Muta'allimin Katerban. Metode penelitian kualitatif merupakan metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini didasarkan pada filosofi postpositivis dan digunakan untuk menilai keadaan alam (bukan eksperimen) dengan menggunakan peneliti sebagai instrumen utama. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah siswa mengalami kesulitan dalam memahami masalah, karena tidak mampu mengerjakan soal dengan menuliskan apa yang telah diketahuinya, dan tidak memahami konsepnya, sesuai dengan temuan penelitian ini. Mempersiapkan solusi merupakan tantangan karena ketidakmampuan siswa untuk merumuskan dan menerapkan rumus dengan benar. Kesulitan dalam mengimplementasikan rencana penyelesaian.
Predicting Recurrence and Progression in Patients with Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Systematic Review on the Performance of Risk Stratification Models
Authors: Guerrero-Ramos Félix , Subiela José Daniel , Rodríguez-Faba Óscar , Aumatell Julia , Manfredi Celeste , Bozzini Giorgio , Romero-Otero Javier , Couñago Felipe
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND:

Several classifications have been reported to stratify non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) in risk groups according to the probability of recurrence and progression.

OBJECTIVE:

To systematically review the current evidence regarding risk stratification of NMIBC.

METHODS:

The systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Studies providing data on development and/or external validation cohorts of models and risk stratification tables for recurrence and/or progression for patients with NMIBC, reporting at least one discrimination measure (AUC or C-Index) were included.

RESULTS:

Twenty-five studies involving 22,737 patients were included. Six classifications were identified, three of them were predictive models (EORTC, CUETO, EAU 2021) and three were based on expert opinion (EAU 2020, AUA, NCCN). A high risk of bias was present in the majority of the studies. Certain heterogenicity was found among the studies regarding adjuvant therapy, postoperative instillation or second resection. The definition of oncological outcomes was not standardized in the included studies. CUETO and EORTC scoring systems are the most validated. In general, validations showed a poor discrimination capability to predict recurrence, slightly better for progression. The EAU 2021 model overestimates the risk of progression in patients treated with BCG. Carcinoma in situ is underrepresented in all the studies analyzed.

CONCLUSIONS:

The existing classifications show poor discrimination capability for recurrence and possibly helpful discrimination capability for progression in NMIBC patients. These results highlight the unmet need to develop novel accurate risk models for patients with NMIBC, which could be improved with the combination of clinicopathological and molecular information.
Ambition as a Legal Concept in the Paris Agreement and Climate Litigation: Some Reflections
Authors: Rehbinder Eckard
Published: October 2022

“Ambition” and its variants “progression” and “highest possible ambition” are cornerstones of the Paris Agreement and its 2/1.5 degrees C global warming goals, while ambition is at best implicit in the Framework Convention on Climate Change. Even though only a normative expectation in a system of self-assessment, under the Paris Agreement ambition serves as a yardstick for judging and discussing the adequacy of the NDCs. However, the content and meaning of “ambition” are far from being agreed upon and the applicability of the reformulated principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities does not provide clear answers. In these circumstances, the article looks for guidance from national court decisions that interpret, apply or consider the notion of ambition “on the ground”. These decisions address a number of elements of ambition. They may encourage more ambitious national action. However, they are mostly not specific enough to draw robust conclusions from them regarding concrete questions of application.
Dementia Risk Following Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Factors Collected at Time of Stroke Diagnosis
Authors: Waziry Reem , Claus Jacqueline J. , Hofman Albert
Published: October 2022

Background: The majority of stroke cases are ischemic in origin and ischemic stroke survivors represent a high-risk population for progression to dementia. Objective: To determine incidence rates and predictors of dementia after ischemic stroke. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis compliant with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA). Results: 5,843 studies were screened for title and abstract. 292 eligible studies were screened for full text. A total of 22 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included, representing 55,929 ischemic stroke survivors. Cumulative incidence of dementia after stroke was 20% at 5 years, 30% at 15 years, and 48% at 25 years of follow-up. Dementia incidence rates were 1.5 times higher among patients with recurrent ischemic stroke compared to patients with first-time stroke. Predictors of dementia after ischemic stroke included female gender (OR 1.2, 95% CI (1.1, 1.4)), hypertension (1.4, (1.1, 2.0)), diabetes mellitus (1.6, (1.3, 2.1)), atrial fibrillation (1.9, (1.2, 3.0)), previous stroke (2.0, (1.6, 2.6)), presence of stroke lesion in dominant hemisphere (2.4, (1.3, 4.5)), brain stem or cerebellum (OR 0.5, (0.3, 0.9)) or frontal lobe (3.7, (1.2, 12.0)), presence of aphasia (OR 7.9, (2.4, 26.0)), dysphasia (5.8, (3.0, 11.3)), gait impairment (1.7, (1.1, 2.7)), presence of white matter hyperintensities (3.2, (2.0, 5.3)), and medial temporal lobe atrophy (3.9, (1.9, 8.3)). Conclusion: Factors routinely collected for stroke patients are a useful resource for monitoring dementia progression in this population. In the present meta-analysis, cardiovascular factors, stroke location, stroke-related disability and chronic brain changes were predictors of dementia after ischemic stroke.
Associations of Naturally Occurring Antibodies to Presenilin-1 with Brain Amyloid-β Load and Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wang Ye-Ran , Wang Meng-Ting , Zeng Xiao-Qin , Liu Yu-Hui , Wang Yan-Jiang
Published: October 2022

Background: Imbalance between the production and clearance of amyloid-β (Aβ) promotes the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Presenilin-1 (PS1) is the catalytic subunit of γ-secretase, which is involved in the process of Aβ production. The profiles of autoantibodies are dysregulated in AD patients. Objective: This study aims to investigate the relative levels and clinical relevance of naturally occurring antibodies to PS1 (NAbs-PS1) in AD. Methods: A total of 55 subjects with AD (including both dementia and mild cognitive impairment due to AD), 28 subjects with cognitive impairment (including both dementia and mild cognitive impairment) not due to AD (non-AD CI), and 70 cognitively normal (CN) subjects were recruited. One-site ELISA was utilized to determine the relative levels of NAbs-PS1 in plasma. Results: AD subjects had lower plasma levels of NAbs-PS1 than CN and non-AD CI subjects. Plasma NAbs-PS1 were negatively associated with the brain Aβ load, as reflected by PET-PiB SUVR, and were positively associated with cognitive functions of participants. Plasma NAbs-PS1 discriminated AD patients from CN with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.730, a sensitivity of 69.09%, and a specificity of 67.14%, and they discriminated AD patients from non-AD CI subjects with an AUC of 0.750, a specificity of 70.91%, and a sensitivity of 71.43%. Conclusion: This study found an aberrant immunological phenotype in AD patients. Further investigations are needed to determine the pathophysiological functions of NAbs-PS1 in AD.
Omega-3 supplementation increases omega-3 fatty acids in lipid compartments that can be taken up by the brain independent of APOE genotype status: A secondary analysis from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Balakrishnan Janani , Husain Mohammed Amir , Vachon Annick , Chouinard-Watkins Raphaël , Léveillé Pauline , Plourde Mélanie
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND:

Omega-3 fatty acid (OM3) intake is associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, but individuals carrying the ɛ4 allele of apolipoprotein E (APOE4) might not benefit from this prevention strategy. Indeed, they might have lower OM3 into plasma free fatty acid (FFA) and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) compartments, the two forms the brain can take-in.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) concentrations in the FFA and LPC pre- and post-OM3 supplementation in APOE4 carriers and non-carriers.

DESIGN:

Plasma samples from 25 APOE4 carriers and non-carriers before and six months after receiving 2.5 g/d DHA+EPA daily were analyzed. DHA and EPA concentrations in the LPC, and FFA were compared by supplementation and genotype. A secondary analysis investigated the interaction between body mass index (BMI) and APOE genotype status.

RESULTS:

There was no genotype x supplement interaction nor a genotype effect on LPC and FFA. However, there was a supplement effect where OM3 increased in all lipid compartment by < 1-fold to 4-fold. Individuals with a low BMI had higher OM3 increase concentrations in the LPC than those with a high BMI.

CONCLUSIONS:

APOE4 carriers and non-carriers can both benefit from taking an OM3 supplement. However, individuals with a high BMI have lower OM3 increases than those with a lower BMI.
Framework for experimental evaluation of software solutions in a virtual environment
Authors: Ilin D.
Published: October 2022

Objectives. Ready-made information technology solutions used when developing software have various characteristics depending on the objectives to be experimentally obtained. While the selection of appropriate technologies and software tools used in experimental software engineering can be time-consuming, experimental complexity can be reduced by providing the researcher with domain-specific tools. The aim of the study is to design and develop a domain-specific software framework for experimental evaluation of the characteristics of information technology solutions in a virtual environment.

Methods. To determine the required characteristics of the software framework, an analysis of software tools for conducting experimental studies to evaluate the characteristics of information technology solutions in a virtual environment was conducted. Methods of decomposition, structural design, and software development were applied to design and develop the framework.

Results. A software framework for conducting experimental research has been developed. The design results, key features of the framework and a description of the functionality are presented. The implementation of the framework comprises commands for managing virtual machines and commands for scaffolding. A technique for conducting experimental studies using the framework is proposed.

Conclusions. The developed domain-specific software framework addresses shortcomings of existing tools to reduce labor costs when conducting experiments to evaluate information technology solutions. The developed framework and proposed methodology allows the number of programming and markup languages required for setting up a software experiment to be reduced from 3 to 1.
Development of a neural network model for spatial data analysis
Authors: Yamashkina E. O. , Yamashkin S. A. , Platonova O. V. , Kovalenko S. M.
Published: October 2022

Objectives. The paper aimed to develop and validate a neural network model for spatial data analysis. The advantage of the proposed model is the presence of a large number of degrees of freedom allowing its flexible configuration depending on the specific problem. This development is part of the knowledge base of a deep machine learning model repository including a dynamic visualization subsystem based on adaptive web interfaces allowing interactive direct editing of the architecture and topology of neural network models.

Methods. The presented solution to the problem of improving the accuracy of spatial data analysis and classification is based on a geosystem approach for analyzing the genetic homogeneity of territorial-adjacent entities of different scales and hierarchies. The publicly available EuroSAT dataset used for initial validation of the proposed methodology is based on Sentinel-2 satellite imagery for training and testing machine learning models aimed at classifying land use/land cover systems. The ontological model of the repository including the developed model is decomposed into domains of deep machine learning models, project tasks and data, thus providing a comprehensive definition of the formalizing area of knowledge. Each stored neural network model is mapped to a set of specific tasks and datasets. Results. Model validation for the EuroSAT dataset algorithmically extended in terms of the geosystem approach allows classification accuracy to be improved under training data shortage within 9% while maintaining the accuracy of ResNet50 and GoogleNet deep learning models.

Conclusions. The implemention of the developed model into the repository enhances the knowledge base of models for spatial data analysis as well as allowing the selection of efficient models for solving problems in the digital economy.
Membangun Kinerja Umkm Melalui Inovasi Keuangan
Authors: Guarto Muji , Thohary Ruby , Verawaty Verawaty
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study is to explain the effect of financial innovation on the performance of MSMEs in the city of Palembang. This type of research is a quantitative study with an analysis unit of MSMEs in Palembang City, where the number of samples in this study were 100 respondents from a population of 20,648 MSME actors in the culinary sector in Palembang City. Sampling was carried out using the Probability Sampling method, with the Simple Random Sampling Technique. The analysis technique in this research is descriptive statistics and inferential statistics with Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach using lisrel software. The results of this study indicate that financial innovation has a significant positive effect on the performance of MSMEs. This means that the stronger the financial innovation carried out by MSME actors, the more they will improve and build a good and effective performance.
Estabilidade de Corantes e Pigmentos de Origem Vegetal
Authors: Schiozer A. L. , Barata L. E. S.
Published: October 2022

Nos últimos anos, consumidores de produtos coloridos aumentaram a rejeição ao uso de corantes artificiais. Ao mesmo tempo, a coloração de alimentos e cosméticos principalmente, utilizando fontes naturais contendo diferentes classes de pigmentos, ganhou importância na indústria. Embora os pigmentos naturais possuam estabilidade inferior se comparados aos pigmentos sintéticos, os naturais conquistam cada ano uma nova fatia do mercado. Problemas de estabilidade como temperatura, oxigênio e luz são fatores que afetam negativamente a qualidade e aparência dos produtos. No entanto, agentes oxidantes e quelantes podem agir como estabilizadores destes compostos naturais. Estudos recentes mostram a degradação destes compostos, focando na decomposição dos mesmos. Adicionalmente, estudos de estabilidade e estabilização de pigmentos naturais estenderam a aplicação dos mesmos. Esta revisão discute fatores de degradação de clorofilas, betalaínas, carotenóides e antocianinas, como classes de compostos naturais mais utilizados para colorir, discutindo condições que governam a estabilidade destes pigmentos.
Effects of erythrocyte oxygenation on optoacoustic signals
Authors: K. Saha Ratan , Kolios Michael
Published: October 2022

A theoretical model examining the effects of erythrocyte oxygenation on optoacoustic (OA) signals is presented. Each erythrocyte is considered as a fluid sphere and its optical absorption is defined by its oxygen saturation state. The OA field generated by a cell is computed by solving the wave equation in the frequency domain with appropriate boundary conditions. The resultant field from many cells is simulated by summing the pressure waves emitted by individual cells. A Monte Carlo algorithm generates 2-D spatially random distributions of oxygenated and deoxygenated erythrocytes. Oxygen saturation levels of oxygenated cells a assumed to be 100% and 0% for deoxygenated cells. The OA signal amplitude decreases monotonically for the 700-nm laser source and increases monotonically for 1000 nm optical radiation when blood oxygen saturation varies from 0 to 100%. An approximately sixfold decrease and fivefold increase of the OA signal amplitude were computed at those wavelengths, respectively. The OA spectral power in the low-frequency range (<10 MHz) and in the very high-frequency range (<100 MHz) decreases for 700 nm and increases for 1000 nm with increasing blood oxygen saturation. This model provides a theoretical framework to study the erythrocyte oxygenation-dependent OA signals. 
Impacto en la brecha digital, tras la implementación de una estación celular rural en Ecuador
Authors: Ochoa Camacho Dario Alexander , Vásquez Erazo Edwin Joselito
Published: October 2022

La presente investigación nace con el objetivo de determinar el impacto y el beneficio que siente la población de la parroquia San Jacinto de Colimes de la provincia del Guayas, tras la implementación de infraestructura de telecomunicaciones. El estudio usa una metodología de tipo cuantitativo, exploratorio descriptivo y correlacional. Se parte de una población finita de 3500 habitantes de la parroquia. Donde se consideran a 100 sujetos de investigación mediante un instrumento validado por expertos con un Alpha de Cronbach de 0.67. La investigación es no probabilística e intencional. Se estudia que la Brecha digital está fuertemente correlacionado con la conectividad. Se concluye que para la parroquia San Jacinto de Colimes de la provincia del Guayas, actualmente presenta una brecha digital con respecto de las ciudades principales y además que el proyecto de implementación desarrollado en el 2021, de una estación celular es beneficioso para la población en estudio.
A EDUCAÇÃO DOS HANSENIANOS EM GOIÁS: UM ESTUDO SOBRE A OPRESSÃO E LIBERTAÇÃO EM FREIRE APLICADO A ESCOLA SANTA MARTA (1940-1980)
Authors: Cunha Samara Garcia Oliveira , Luiz Weslei Oliveira , Teixeira Ricardo Antonio Gonçalves
Published: October 2022

O presente artigo resulta de reflexões sobre a educação em Paulo Freire e objetiva discutir o conceito de opressão, buscando identificar a conceituação construída pelo autor, de modo a apontar discussões que abalizam a prática da educação dialógica como meio para conscientização da condição de opressão. Propõe relacionar tais conceitos com a Escola Santa Marta (no período de 1940 a 1980), localizada no interior do antigo leprosário Colônia Santa Marta, instituição segregadora inaugurada em 1943, em Goiânia-GO, destinada exclusivamente ao acolhimento e isolamento de pessoas com hanseníase. Busca, assim, refletir sobre o efetivo empenho dos professores, como atores de mediação ativa, para o desenvolvimento do processo ensino-aprendizagem em um contexto de segregação, estigmas e preconceitos, em que professores e estudantes convivem com as dores, “defeitos” e tratamentos ineficazes, além da tristeza e dor do isolamento social vivido pela marca da hanseníase.
Palavras-chave: Opressão. Educação Dialógica. Escola Santa Marta.
 
ABSTRACT
This article results from reflections on education in Paulo Freire and aims to discuss the concept of oppression, seeking to identify the conceptualization constructed by the author, in order to point out discussions that support the practice of dialogic education as a means of raising awareness of the condition of oppression. It proposes to relate these concepts to the Santa Marta school (from 1940 to 1980), located inside the former leper colony Santa Marta, a segregating institution inaugurated in 1943, in Goiânia-GO, intended exclusively for the reception and isolation of people with leprosy. It seeks, therefore, to reflect on the effective commitment of teachers, as actors of active mediation, for the development of the teaching-learning process in a context of segregation, stigmas and prejudices, in which teachers and students live with pain, "defects" and ineffective treatments, in addition to the sadness and pain of social isolation experienced by the leprosy mark.
Keywords: Oppression. Dialogical Education. Santa Marta School.
Perbedaan Tingkat Kesadaran Sejarah Siswa Menggunakan Sumber Belajar Situs Banten Lama Dengan Sumber Belajar LKS
Authors: Azizi Ihya Alfi , Rustamana Agus , Putra Arif Permana
Published: October 2022

This study aims to analyze the effects of using Banten Lama learning resources on increasing students' historical awareness and the differences in the historical understanding of students using Banten Lama learning resources and those using LKS learning resources in learning at SMAN 1 Cikeusal. The method was Quasi-Experimental Design with purposive sampling technique sampling (X MIPA 1 experimental class and X MIPA 2 control class). The research instrument used a questionnaire. Then, the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Based on the results of the study, there were differences in the historical awareness of the experimental class students and the control class. The results of the N-Gain showed that the average value of the experimental type was 0.31 in the medium category and the N-Gain of the control class got an average value of 0.13 in the low category. It is concluded that there is an increase in students' historical awareness of learning after using the Old Banten Site as a resource. The t-test t count 2.494 > t table 1.9966 at the 95% confidence level indicated an even more significant difference in the historical awareness of students who use Banten Lama learning resources compared to the use of LKS learning resources.
Analisis Pengaruh Pengetahuan Kewirausahaan dan Lingkungan Keluarga Terhadap Minat Berwirausaha Mahasiswa FKIP Universitas Riau
Authors: Sucipto Fransiska Mulyani , Sumarno Sumarno , Sari Filma Alia
Published: October 2022

This study aims to analyze the influence of entrepreneurial knowledge and family environment on the entrepreneurial interest of FKIP Riau University students. This research method used a quantitative approach. The population in this study were FKIP Riau University students who had taken entrepreneurship courses, with a total of 1,278 students. The sample of this study amounted to 93 students using a proportional random sampling technique. Instruments in this study used documentation and questionnaires. Data were analyzed by multiple linear regression analysis. The results showed that entrepreneurial knowledge and family environment had a positive and significant effect on the entrepreneurial interest of FKIP Riau University students, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 57.7%. Moreover, the partial test results showed that entrepreneurial knowledge with a t-count (3.180) was greater than the t-table ( 1.986). The significance value was smaller than 0.05, which is 0.002. It indicated that the better the entrepreneurial knowledge obtained, the higher the interest in entrepreneurship in students and the family environment with a t-count (10.362) greater than the t-table (1.986) and the significance value smaller than 0.05, i.e. 0.000. It indicated that the greater the support from the family environment, the greater the student's interest in entrepreneurship.
Decolonising Palestinian Liberation Theology: New Methods, Sources and Voices
Authors: Munayer John S. , Munayer Samuel S.
Published: October 2022

With the rise of decoloniality in scholarship, contextual theologians have attempted to critically evaluate theology and its Eurocentric epistemological assumptions. Such an attempt has yet to be seriously embarked upon regarding Palestinian Liberation Theology (PLT). Since its academic inception, PLT has been predominantly articulated by two Protestant theologians: Naim Ateek and Mitri Raheb. Although these important theologians are the pioneers of PLT, Ateek and Raheb rely on white-Western theological methods, sources and assumptions. Moreover, the two thinkers primarily target a Western audience, which makes their theology less applicable and relevant to Palestinians. As such, PLT has yet to fundamentally reflect on the many Palestinian sources and methods for constructing an indigenous Palestinian theology. Consequently, this article seeks to indigenise PLT. After examining the coloniality within the work of Ateek and Raheb, the article will argue for new methods and sources for developing PLT. This will include: (1) traditional and local Palestinian Christian practices from the Orthodox tradition and (2) concepts within Palestinian popular resistance and consciousness against settler colonialism. These new methods and sources compensate for some of the limitations PLT currently holds and erode its existing Eurocentric epistemological assumptions. This article is intended to function as a self-critical endeavour on our own Christian theology of liberation in Palestine and invites other Palestinian and Arab theologians to dialogically develop our theologies in a decolonial and intersectional manner.
VARIABLE PITCH FAN AERODYNAMIC DESIGN FOR REVERSE THRUST OPERATION
Authors:   Whittle Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Williams Tim S. , Hall Cesare A. ,   Whittle Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Wilson Mark ,   Rolls-Royce plc
Published: October 2022

Variable pitch low pressure ratio fans could enable higher propulsive efficiency and eliminate the need for heavy thrust reversers. In this paper, the effects of the fan rotor design on reverse thrust capability have been explored by varying key parameters of NASA’s Advanced Ducted Propulsor (ADP) while maintaining cruise point performance. Reverse thrust performance has been assessed using RANS single passage CFD of the variable pitch fan system with an extended domain. This computational approach has been validated using NASA Stage 51B, an experimental variable pitch fan test case. Predicted total pressure and total pressure ratios for this case were found to agree with test data within experimental error, except where large tip region separations occurred at high incidence. Applying individual variations to rotor pitch-to-chord, radial loading distribution, and chordwise camber distribution generated changes to rotor incidence, blockage, and peak surface Mach numbers in reverse operation. An increase in gross reverse thrust of up to 8% was achieved through reductions in rotor pitch-to-chord due to improved loading and lower shock Mach numbers. Controlling section camber distributions was used to move the rotor shock downstream and was found to increase reverse thrust by up to 3%. Increasing rotor loading at the mid span relative to the tip resulted in high tip incidence and a 50% reduction in gross reverse thrust across all rotor speeds. This suggests that tip loaded designs are required for high levels of reverse thrust.
Development of a surrogate model for uncertainty quantification of compressor performance due to manufacturing tolerance
Authors:   Imperial College London, Rendu Quentin , Salles Loic ,   Imperial College London
Published: October 2022

In gas turbine and jet engines, stagger angle and tip gap variations between adjacent blades lead to the deterioration of performance. To evaluate the effect of manufacturing tolerances on performances, a CFDbased uncertainty quantification analysis is performed in this work. However, evaluating dozens of thousands of rotor assembly through CFD simulations would be computationally prohibitive. A surrogate model is thus developed to predict compressor performance given an ordered set of manufactured blades. The model is used to predict the influence of tip gap and stagger angle variations on maximum isentropic efficiency. The results confirm that the best arrangement is obtained by minimizing the stagger angle variation between adjacent blades, and by maximizing the tip gap variation. Another finding is that the best arrangement yields the lowest variability, the range of maximum efficiency being 4 times sharper (resp. 2 times) than worst arrangement for stagger angle variations (resp. tip gap variations). Not measuring manufacturing tolerances, or not specifying any strategy for the blade arrangement, lead to variability as large as the worst arrangement.
ON THE IMPACT OF FOULING ON THE STAGE INTERACTION IN A 2.5-STAGE COMPRESSOR
Authors:   Institute of Jet Propulsion and Turbomachinery, Kessler Daniel , Friedrichs Jens ,   Institute of Jet Propulsion and Turbomachinery, Werner-Spatz Christian ,   Lufthansa Technik AG
Published: October 2022

Jet engines and thus the compressor suffer operational, particle-based wear during their usage. The type of wear depends on the ambient conditions, the operating point, and the size of the particles. Fouling is one possible type of wear, consisting of the deposition of small particles on the blade’s surface together with moisture from the air or leaked fluids of the compressor, thereby increasing the surface roughness and the blade thickness. In order to better understand the effects of fouling, and especially the interaction of different affected compressor stages, investigations are carried out on a 2.5-stage test compressor to evaluate fouling in the compressor. Fouling is represented using a randomly distributed surface structure of hemispheres on both rotor rows. The roughness parameter Ra is based on surface measurements of a worn actual CFM-56 engine after operation. The results are compared to smooth rotor blades without coating. The effect on the compressor is evaluated by integral measurements of efficiency and pressure rise and by wake measurements with pneumatic 5-hole probes. The results show integral losses in efficiency and pressure rise and, depending on the combination of rough rotor rows, a redistribution of the stage work. The second stage compensates for some of the losses of a rough first stage rotor, reducing the negative effects of the fouling.
Suggestion on Axial Staged Mild Combustion considering the variable load
Authors:   Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, Yang Haiyang , Zhang * Zhedian ,   Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China, Li Keying ,   Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
Published: October 2022

Increasingly stringent regulations limit the pollutant emission of heavy-duty gas turbines over the entire load range from start-up to baseload. Due to the low emission of axial stage combustion technology and MILD conditions provided by the primary flue gas, axial stage MILD combustion is expected to further lower emissions and become more popular. However, the state of MILD combustion is easy to destroy when the load decreases. The load range of MILD combustion is affected by the gas turbine operating strategy and the axial stage strategy. Therefore, taking the F-class gas turbine as an example, the present study calculated the combustor parameters of two common partial load operation strategies: the IGV strategy and the fuel-only strategy. A staged MILD model is established by Chemkin software, and parametric research was carried out to analyze the effects of pressure, temperature, and mass flow on thermodynamics and chemical kinetics. Subsequently, the fuel and air distribution in the variable load process is studied to achieve MILD combustion in a large load range. Finally, a novel method of re-staged in the secondary stage is proposed, which enables both operating strategies to achieve MILD combustion from 0 loads to baseload.
Simulation of a Multistage Compressor at Low Load Operation with Additional Bleed Air Extraction for Minimum Environmental Load Reduction
Authors:   German Aerospace Center (DLR), Goinis Georgios , Benvenuto Marcello ,   Ansaldo Energia, Mosele Stefano Gino ,   Ansaldo Energia, Schneider Andrea ,   Ansaldo Energia
Published: October 2022

The need for more flexible operation of gas-fired power plants has led manufacturers to exploit possibilities to retrofit existing systems and increase turndown capabilities, lowering the minimum environmental load (MEL) - the lowest output at which the unit can operate and still meet environmental emissions limits. A possible measure for the compressor to enable a reduced MEL is to extract significant mass flow rates through the bleed ports in operation with a closed IGV to lower the mass flow entering the combustor, enabling a further load reduction while maintaining emissions. For this measure to be implemented, a stable operation of the compressor has to be ensured at the reduced MEL conditions. It is well known that bleed-air offtake at full speed shifts the loading towards the rear stages of the compressor. At MEL, the rear stages already operate at an increased loading compared to base-load. Therefore, to confirm the viability of bleed offtake as a turndown strategy, the effects on performance and stability have to be quantified for operation at MEL. Of particular interest is how an increase in air extraction through the bleed ports influences the stability of the compressor at MEL, especially when the offtake is from low pressure. Information on the degradation of the stability margin due to the additional bleed-air extraction at MEL is gained through numerical simulations. Full-compressor CFD simulations of an F-class gas turbine at reduced MEL conditions are performed. The influence of several geometrical and numerical modeling details is studied, and the model is validated against a comprehensive set of experimental data. The numerical results show good agreement with the experimental data, even with increased bleed air extraction. It can be concluded that bleed-air extraction is a capable method of reducing the compressor discharge mass flow rate significantly. The extraction rate is limited by the stability of the last compressor stages. To verify the integrity of the whole GT at operation under such conditions, e.g., the thermal state of hot parts, further analysis should be performed.
Utilization of whey in bakery products-A review
Authors: Paul S , Kulkarni S , Chauhan RN
Published: October 2022

Whey is a vast repository of valuable nutrients and serves as a key ingredient in the bakery sector. Whey being a significant by product of the dairy industry is necessary to be utilized to reduce the burden of its disposal on the environment, which is attributed to the high BOD of whey. Whey based ingredients find an ocean of application in foods. Whey based ingredients have superior functional properties attributable to whey proteins which results in enhancement of textural and chemical properties of products they are applied in. Whey proteins are used as fat replacers, emulsifiers, flavour and appearance enhancers etc in a wide category of bakery products. Whey based ingredients can negate the use of dough conditioners due to high water binding capacity which aids in developing improved texture and fine even crumb. Whey ingredients can boost levels of protein, calcium, potassium and other minerals in bakery products. With increasing demand for clean label products and low fat products with the same textural attributes as full fat ones the demand for whey ingredients is surging. In this article we review the applications of whey based ingredients in bakery products.
hMSC exosomes as a novel treatment for female sensitive skin: An in vivo study
Authors: Ye Congxiu , Zhang Yunqing , Su Zhen , Wu Shuxia , Li Yuxia , Yi Jinling , Lai Wei , Chen Jian , Zheng Yue
Published: October 2022

Background: Recent studies have reported that the incidence of sensitive skin is increasing. Skin sensitivity and skin barrier functions were related to many skin diseases including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, and so on. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes (hMSC) might be considered as a new effective therapeutic scheme.

Aims: This study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of hMSC exosomes as a novel topical treatment for sensitive skin.

Patients/Methods: Exosomes were extracted from primary hMSC via ultracentrifugation method. The morphology of hMSC exosomes was studied via transmission electron microscope. Expression of exosome specific surface marker was detected via Western blot. 22 subjects (female, aged 18–55) diagnosed with sensitive skin were enrolled. Follow-up was conducted before, 7-day, 14-day, and 28-day after hMSC exosomes use. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), surface hydration, sebum secretion, and L*a*b* value were simultaneously tested at the same time point in an environment-controlled room.

Results: Under transmission electron microscopy, the extracted hMSC exosomes were circular or elliptical with intact membrane structure, and their diameters ranged mainly from 40 to 80 nm. Western blot showed that the expression of markers CD63, CD9, and Tsg101 was positive. Brownian motion based nanoparticle trajectory analysis (NTA) showed that the main peak of particle size distribution occurred around 96 nm, the average particle size was 122 nm, and the main peak accounted for 96.7%. All this conformed to the biological characteristics of exosomes standardized by the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles. In the clinical trial, scores of objective symptoms including roughness, scales, erythema, and subjective symptoms including tension, burning, or itching, were improved after 7-, 14-, and 28- day using hMSC-exosomes. TEWL, hydration, sebum, pH, and a* values were tended to return to the level of healthy skin.

Conclusion: The hMSC-exosomes, with the advantages of biocompatibility and biodegradability, could improve clinical symptoms and eruptions in sensitive skin patients, and might be as an MSC cell-free novel therapy in sensitive skin-related disease treatment.
Type I fimbriae subunit fimA enhances Escherichia coli biofilm formation but affects L-threonine carbon distribution
Authors: Liu Qingguo , Zhu Jiaqing , Liu Na , Sun Wenjun , Yu Bin , Niu Huanqing , Liu Dong , Ouyang Pingkai , Ying Hanjie , Chen Yong , Zhao Gulin , Chen Tianpeng
Published: October 2022

The biofilm (BF) provides favorable growth conditions to cells, which has been exploited in the field of industrial biotechnology. Based on our previous research works on type I fimbriae for the biosynthesis of L-threonine (LT) in Escherichia coli, in this study, a fimA-overexpressing strain was engineered, which improved BF formation under industrial fermentation conditions. The morphological observation and characterization of BF formation were conducted to verify the function of the subunit FimA. However, it was not suitable for repeated-batch immobilized fermentation as the LT titer was not elevated significantly. The underlying molecular mechanisms of BF formation and the LT carbon flux were explored by transcriptomic analysis. The results showed that fimA regulated E. coli BF formation but affected LT carbon distribution. This study will stimulate thoughts about how the fimbriae gene regulated biofilms and amino acid excretion and will bring some consideration and provide a reference for the development of BF-based biomanufacturing processes in E. coli.
Advances in the research of nano delivery systems in ischemic stroke
Authors: Li Yi-Xuan , Wang Hong-Bo , Jin Jian-Bo , Yang Chun-Lin , Hu Jing-Bo , Li Jing
Published: October 2022

Ischemic stroke is the most common type of cerebrovascular disease with high disability rate and mortality. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects the homeostasis of the brain’s microenvironment and impedes the penetration of 98% of drugs. Therefore, effective treatment requires the better drug transport across membranes and increased drug distribution. Nanoparticles are a good choice for drugs to cross BBB. The main pathways of nano delivery systems through BBB include passive diffusion, adsorption-mediated endocytosis, receptor-mediated transport, carrier-mediated transport, etc. At present, the materials used in brain-targeted delivery can be divided into natural polymer, synthetic polymers, inorganic materials and phospholipid. In this review, we first introduced several ways of nano delivery systems crossing the BBB, and then summarized their applications in ischemic stroke. Based on their potential and challenges in the treatment of ischemic stroke, new ideas and prospects are proposed for designing feasible and effective nano delivery systems.
Choosing a cellular model to study SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Pires De Souza Gabriel Augusto , Le Bideau Marion , Boschi Céline , Wurtz Nathalie , Colson Philippe , Aherfi Sarah , Devaux Christian , La Scola Bernard
Published: October 2022

As new pathogens emerge, new challenges must be faced. This is no different in infectious disease research, where identifying the best tools available in laboratories to conduct an investigation can, at least initially, be particularly complicated. However, in the context of an emerging virus, such as SARS-CoV-2, which was recently detected in China and has become a global threat to healthcare systems, developing models of infection and pathogenesis is urgently required. Cell-based approaches are crucial to understanding coronavirus infection biology, growth kinetics, and tropism. Usually, laboratory cell lines are the first line in experimental models to study viral pathogenicity and perform assays aimed at screening antiviral compounds which are efficient at blocking the replication of emerging viruses, saving time and resources, reducing the use of experimental animals. However, determining the ideal cell type can be challenging, especially when several researchers have to adapt their studies to specific requirements. This review strives to guide scientists who are venturing into studying SARS-CoV-2 and help them choose the right cellular models. It revisits basic concepts of virology and presents the currently available in vitro models, their advantages and disadvantages, and the known consequences of each choice.
Development and evaluation of a rapid and sensitive multienzyme isothermal rapid amplification with a lateral flow dipstick assay for detection of Acinetobacter baumannii in spiked blood specimens
Authors: Hu Wei-Wei , He Jian-Wei , Guo Shu-Liang , Li Jin
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to establish the multienzyme isothermal rapid amplification with a lateral flow dipstick (MIRA-LFD) assay and evaluate its performance in detection of A. baumannii in spiked blood specimens.

Methods

The study was divided into two stages: a pilot study to establish the methodology and a clinical validation study to evaluate its performance. In the first step, we designed primers specific to detect A. baumannii, optimized the MIRA-LFD assay and analyzed its performance regarding limits of detection, reproducibility, specificity, and efficiency of detection using real-time PCR method. In the second step, we obtained 50 spiked blood isolates and detected these pathogens by MIRA-LFD assay. The MIRA-LFD time was 15 min from DNA sample amplification to complete pathogen detection.

Results

The developed MIRA-LFD assay displayed a detection limit of 6 CFU/mL for detecting A. baumannii, which was significantly better than that of real-time PCR method, and no cross-reactivity was observed in other non-A. baumannii studied. The results obtained with 50 spiked blood isolates suggested that the developed MIRA-LFD assay had high specificity and sensitivity for identifying A. baumannii.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the established MIRA-LFD assay is time-saving, more effective and sensitive, which may become a powerful tool for rapid and reliable diagnosis of bloodstream infection caused by A. baumannii in primary hospitals.