bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of co-transplantation of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cell and thymic multipotent stromal cells on the immune system of mice during its regeneration after cyclophosphamide treatment
Authors: Demchenko D. , Nikolskiy I.
Published: July 2019

The multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) are considered as one of the most promising agents for regenerating the immune system due to its powerful secretion of reparative factors and immunomodulatory properties.The purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of co-transplantation of bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and thymic multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) on regeneration of murine immune system damaged by cyclophosphamide.Materials and methods. MSCs were obtained from thymuses of C57BL mice using explant technique. Bone marrow cells (BMCs) were obtained by flushing out the femur with nutrient medium. The immune deficiency of mice was modelled by the treatment with cyclophosphamide. After that, the cells were co-transplanted and the parameters of the immune system was evaluated. We determined the total number of erythrocytes, hematocrit, and hemoglobin concentration in peripheral blood; phases of the cell cycle and apoptosis of the cells of the mesenteric lymph nodes; the number of antibody-producing cells in the spleen; delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH); proliferative and cytotoxic activity of natural killer lymphocytes; phagocytic activity, level of spontaneous and induced bactericidal activity of peritoneal macrophages.Results. It was shown that in contrast to BMCs, the use of MSCs alone or co-transplantation of these cells increased the spontaneous proliferative activity of lymphocytes with a significant decrease in the number of lymph node cells in G0/G1 phase by 9.2 % and an increase in the number of lymphocytes in G2-M+S phase by 35 %, as well as restoring cellularity of bone marrow, thymus and lymph nodes in mice treated with cyclophosphamide. Regeneration of erythropoiesis was stimulated by BMCs, which was manifested by the normalization of hematocrit and hemoglobin, and an increase in the number of reticulocytes in the blood by 2.2 times compared with the group of mice receiving cyclophosphamide. Co-transplantation had less pronounced, but similar effect. Transplantation of thymic MSCs stimulated the natural cytotoxicity of splenocytes by 2.7 times and substantially increased the number of antibody-producing cells in the spleen by 1.7 times compared with the group of mice receiving cyclophosphamide. Co-transplantation had a pronounced suppressive effect on the blast transformation reaction induced by phytohemagglutinin by 1.7 times, but showed a stimulating effect on DTH response by 1.46 times. Transplantation of BMCs did not affect the functional activity of the immune system.Conclusion. The effects of co-transplantation of BMCs and thymic MSCs are realized in the several parts: stimulation of hematological parameters recovery (like under the effect of BMCs separately), normalization of cell number of lymphoid organs (as under the impact of thymic MSCs); inhibition of blast transformation activity and stimulation of DTH are the effects of co-transplantation.
The Influence of Organizational Culture on HRM Practices at Academic Institutions in Oman
Authors: K Renjith Krishnan , Thakur Geeta
Published: July 2019

Organizational culture is one of the factors which affect employee's behavior. Culture is the most important factor accounting for success or failure in organizations and it is even more important today than it was in the past because of increased competition and changes. Studies in the organizational psychology literature have shown that organizational culture and HRM practice are major factors to the Organizational Success. Organizational culture encompasses values and behaviors that contribute to the unique social and psychological environment of an organization. Organizational culture also represents the collective values, beliefs and principles of organizational members. Culture and HRM are connected to each other from many ways and as pointed out by Jackson and Schuler organizational culture and HRM cannot be separated in an organization and culture has influential effect on the administration of HR. This paper shows the results of the influence of organizational culture on human resource practices in some selected departments in the institution where the authors are working. The statistical analysis was based on one hundred respondents from different departments and it shows that there is a close relationship between organizational culture and recruitment process, training programs, job performance management, performance of employees, pay structure, and compensation administration.
Genes regulating programmed cell death are significantly upregulated in porcine immature oocytes
Authors: Stefańska Katarzyna , Józkowiak Małgorzata , Antosik Paweł , Bukowska Dorota , Celichowski Piotr , Bruska Małgorzata , Nowicki Michał , Kempisty Bartosz , Zakova Jana , Machatkova Marie , Jeseta Michal
Published: July 2019

Correct maturation of the oocyte is crucial for further fertilization and embryogenesis. It comprises of both nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation, during which the proteins, nutrients and mRNAs are assembled. Cumulus cells are connected with the oocyte via gap-junctions, which enable bi-directional transfer of molecules, forming cumulus-oocyte complex (COC). The expression pattern in CCs is thought to resemble the genes expressed in the oocyte. The CCs surrounding the gamete of high developmental competence have an increased expression of apoptotic markers. Therefore, our aim in this study was to determine whether any apoptosis-related genes are upregulated in porcine oocytes before or after IVM. We isolated COCs from 45 pubertal crossbred gilts, performed brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining and analyzed the gene expression pattern in oocytes before and after IVM with the use of microarray analysis. The results include 419 differentially expressed transcripts, 25 of which belong to „regulation of apoptosis” and „regulation of cell death” GO BP terms. This set of genes includes BCLAF1, EIF2AK3, KLF10, MIF, MAP3K1, NOTCH2, TXNIP and APP, all of which have been upregulated in immature porcine oocytes. Our results suggest that they play part in porcine oocyte maturation and could be used as potential markers of female gamete’s developmental competence. This knowledge could serve as a basis to improve ART in pigs.
Characterization and Evaluation of Bacillus siamensis Isolate for its Growth Promoting Potential in Tomato
Authors: Islam Amanul , Kabir Shahinur , Khair Abul
Published: July 2019

In quest of prospective rizospheric bacteria of agricultural importance, one of the isolates from bean (Lablab niger Medikus) was identified as Bacillus siamensis based on morphological, biochemical and 16S rRNA gene sequencing data. Study was carried out to evaluate growth promotion of two tomato cultivars, in vitro and in vivo. Experiments conducted for two consecutive years, following seed treatments revealed that the bacterial isolate increased plant height by 14.66‒15.68%, shoot fresh weight by 34.5‒65.09% and root fresh weight by 75.3‒92.48% over the non-treated control. The bacterial strain showed encouraging results for plant growth promotion in pot study and hence may be useful for the growth enhancement of tomato plant.
Responding of Long Green Pepper Plants to Different Sources of Foliar Potassium Fertiliser
Authors: El-Mogy Mohamed M. , Salama Azza M. , Mohamed Hanaa F. Y. , Abdelgawad Karima F. , Abdeldaym Emad A.
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to explore the efficiency of foliar potassium fertiliser relative to morphological, physiological and biochemical properties of hybrid long pepper (Capsicum annuum). Pepper plants were grown in a greenhouse and supplied with three sources of foliar potassium fertilisers, i.e., potassium-humate (1 g/L = 1,250 g/ha), potassium sulfate (1 g/L = 1,250 g/ha), and potassium chloride (1 g/L = 1,250 g/ha). Water served as control. The impacts of these treatments on the phytosynthetic parameters (photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2, leaf carotenoids) and chlorophyll a and b, metabolic compounds and nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were measured. The phytosynthetic parameters significantly improved by different foliar potassium application and the highest level of photosynthetic activity was noted in plants supplied with potassium sulfate, followed by potassium-humate and potassium chloride. Plant biomass accumulation, cholorophyll (a and b), and total yield showed larger increases in plants fertilised with potassium sulfate than those fertilised with potassium-humate; smallest increases occurred with potassium chloride. Concentrations of total sugars, carotenoids, chlorophyll (a and b), and endogenous level of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents in plants and fruits were possitively influenced by varying sources of potassium. The fruit color parameters and total soluble solid were also significantly increased with all foliar potassium treatments compared with control. Foliar application of potassium sulfate recorded the highest values and significantly increase all anatomical characters for leaf, stem and fruit of pepper plant.
Comfort Levels and Communication Styles of Sexual Health Educators: An Interdisciplinary Study
Authors: Greenan Kathleen A.
Published: July 2019

This study explored sexual health education (SHE) through the lens of public school educators in the United States of America. It examined their comfort levels and the barriers educators faced by asking, “How comfortable are educators when communicating sexual health topics to adolescents for them to build a foundation to become sexually healthy adults?” The qualitative, phenomenological study included 11 public school teachers among three school districts in the State of Indiana. Conducting intimate, face-to-face interviews with participants advanced and expanded interdisciplinary research. Educators shared their beliefs and values regarding SHE instruction and levels of sexuality comfort. Three findings emerged from the data that can contribute to research in the fields of education, public policy, public health, and communication: (1) An inclusive sexual health education program can provide educators with more sexuality comfort, (2) Teacher training and instructional materials relate to an educator’s sexuality comfort level and willingness to communicate SHE, and (3) An educator’s level of sexuality comfort may likely increase if engaged in SHE decision-making policies. At the time of the study, State policies prohibited comprehensive education, although participants preferred a more inclusive approach to teaching, SHE. Additionally, the concept of sexuality comfort (1984) was reconstructed and revised. This study offered an in-depth exploration into a topic - sexual health - that affects all individuals and established a foundation for future qualitative and quantitative studies.
An Evaluation of a Key Innovation: Mobile Learning
Authors: Belle Louis Jinot
Published: July 2019

This paper examines the impact of m-learning as an innovative tool that is still in its infancy in many countries, but that can significantly contribute to effective teaching and learning in the context of the digital age. Based on the theoretical principles of learning, the uses of m-learning are reviewed. To provide complete insights into its potential adoption in higher education institutions in countries such as Mauritius and Nigeria, the various emerging issues such as technical issues, usability issues, content security and copyright issues as well as issues relating to privacy and cyber bullying are discussed. The paper suggests some of the future trends in the adoption of m-learning, but it concluded that it may not be successful due to other challenges that are typical to many countries in Africa. African countries are faced with context-bound and technological constraints that are hindering the leaners of higher education institutions to benefit from the learning advantages that they may get to improve their learning and for the countries to give more access to higher education through the use of open education that may be technologically enhanced.
The Financial and Economic Implications of Underground Economy: The Nigerian Perspective
Authors: Omodero Cordelia Onyinyechi
Published: July 2019

The economic and financial effect of underground economy in all emerging countries is of tremendous concern. Sometimes due to the inputs of the sector to economic growth of nations, it is usually assumed that the government has nothing to lose, meanwhile it goes beyond the seemingly economic benefits, but provides an avenue whereby the government has to suffer financial losses through unavoidable and inherent tax evasions. This study evaluates the impact of shadow economy using the transaction approach and the MIMIC approach which helped to determine the size of the shadow economy as a percentage of GDP and the tax revenue losses suffered by the government for a period spanning from 1991 to 2018. Ordinary least squares method is used to examine the impact of tax revenue earned and lost on Nigeria’s GDP. The regression results indicate that tax revenue earned has a significant positive impact on economic growth, while the tax revenue loss has a significant negative influence on GDP. The study finds that underground economy activities do more harm to the government than good and is also detrimental to Nigeria’s economic progress. Therefore the suggestion among others is that the legal activities among them should be formalized and taxed while the unlawful ones should be exterminated.
Monitoring of Educational Programs for the Development of Professional Competencies by Procurement Specialists in Procurement Statistics
Authors: Sergeeva Svetlana A.
Published: July 2019

Development of professional competence of the procurement specialists in procurement statistics is one of the research priorities in the supply of human resources for procurement. State priorities in the training of personnel ready for efficient professional activity in the ever changing environment are reflected in the content of educational programs. But the lack of uniform requirements for the training of managers, specialists and experts in the field of procurement gives rise to a huge number of problems. Digitalization of procurement, growth of e-commerce requires mandatory introduction of such a component as procurement statistics into the structure of professional competence of customers. But how to determine the necessary amount of knowledge, which statistical tools should be in possession of a graduate of the educational program - these and many other questions remain open. This paper presents the main approaches to the development of professional competencies of procurement specialists in maintaining statistical records of the procurement activities through educational programs based on monitoring of their efficiency.
Printmaking in Nigeria: Its Evolution and Developmental History
Authors: Ijisakin Eyitayo Tolulope
Published: July 2019

Despite the prolific and ingenious productivity of the printmakers in Nigeria, the significance of their creative endeavours has not been given adequate attention by scholars of contemporary Nigerian arts. Scholarship on the printmakers has been limited to catalogues of art exhibitions, skimpy art reviews in magazines, and a few sketches on their biographies. This study therefore probes into the evolution of printmaking in Nigeria. This is with a view to obtaining its developmental history and enabling a more nuanced and useful understanding of the ways in which printmaking contributes to contemporary art praxis in Nigeria. Relying on field investigation, data were collected through in-depth interviews of printmakers, art critics, art historians and gallery owners, using oral or interactive formats; and collection of visual media sources. This study justifies the need for a developmental history; it identifies and examines the key actors who pioneered printmaking in Nigeria. It further appraises printmaking in Nigeria through the lens of relevant literature; and examines workshops, training, and techniques of printmaking in Nigeria.
Degradation of Functional Properties of Pseudoelastic NiTi Alloy Under Cyclic Loading: An Experimental Study
Authors: Iasnii Volodymyr , Yasniy Petro
Published: July 2019

The influence of the cyclic loading on the functional properties of NiTi was studied. Cylindrical specimens with a diameter of 4 mm and a gage length of 12.5 mm were tested under uniaxial cyclic loading with control crosshead displacement at a temperature of 0°C. The dependences of the stress and strain range as well as dissipation energy on the number of loading cycles at different initial stress range were analysed. During the first 10 loading cycles, a rapid decrease in the strain range and energy dissipation was observed. Dissipation energy was invariant to the loading cycles’ number at N > 20 cycles and to the stress range that did not exceed the martensite finish stress level, was within the same scatter band and can be described by the single dependence. With the stress range growth at N < 20 cycles from 509 to 740 MPa, the value of dissipation energy increases and that of relative dissipation energy decreases. Loss coefficient, which characterises material damping ability, significantly decreases during the first 10 loading cycles and remains practically unchanged up to the failure of the specimens. At the stabilisation area, the loss coefficient is almost non-sensitive towards the stress range.
Ability of Energy Harvesting Mr Damper to Act as a Velocity Sensor in Vibration Control Systems
Authors: Rosół Maciej , Sapiński Bogdan
Published: July 2019

The study investigates the self-sensing ability in an energy harvesting magnetorheological damper (EHMRD). The device consists of a conventional linear MR damper and an electromagnetic harvester. The objective of the work is to demonstrate that the EHMRD with specific self-powered feature can also serve as a velocity sensor. Main components of the device and design structure are summarized and its operation principle is highlighted. The diagram of the experimental set-up incorporating the measurement and processing unit is provided, the experimental procedure is outlined and data processing is discussed. The self-sensing function is proposed whereby the relative velocity of the EHMRD can be reconstructed from the electromotive force (emf) induced in the harvester coil. To demonstrate the adequacy of the self-sensing action (i.e., the induced emf should agree well with the relative velocity), the proposed self-sensing function is implemented and tested in the embedded system that will be a target control platform. Finally, the test results of the system utilizing a switching control algorithm are provided to demonstrate the potentials of the EHMRD acting as a velocity sensor and to confirm its applicability in semi-active vibration control systems.
Defense manifestations of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in Ricinus communis L. exposed to lead in hydroponics
Authors: Kiran Boda Ravi , Prasad M.N.V.
Published: July 2019

Lead (Pb) is a major inorganic pollutant with no biological significance and has been a global concern. Phytotoxicity of lead induces toxic effects by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which inhibits most of the cellular processes in plants. Hydro-ponic experiments were performed with Ricinus communis to investigate the toxicity and antioxidant responses by exposing to different concentrations of lead (0, 200 and 400 µM) for 10 days. Pb stress caused a significant increase in electrolyte leakage, non-enzymatic antioxidants (phenols and flavonoids) and a decrease in the elemental profile of the plant. Histochemical visualization clearly indicates the significant increase of H2O2 production in dose-dependent manner under Pb stress. Likewise, an increase in catalase, guaiacol peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity was also evident. Ascorbate peroxidase and MDAR, on the other hand, responded biphasically to Pb treatments showing a decrease in concentration. The decline in redox ratio GSH/GSSG was imposed by the indirect oxidative stress of Pb. Hence these findings showed the ameliorative potential of R. communis to sustain Pb toxicity under oxidative stress.
Corrosion inhibition of iron surfaces with phosphatidic acid
Authors: Al-Badran Ahmed Sameer , Mechler Adam
Published: July 2019

Preventing the corrosion of iron in inaccessible structures requires a coating method that reaches all surface areas and creates a uniform protective layer. An ages old practice to protect iron artefacts is to coat them with animal fat, that is, a mixture of lipids. This “method” is accidentally ingenious: some natural phospholipids found in animal fat have the potential to form a tightly packed self-assembled monolayer on metal oxide surfaces, similar to the surfactant monolayers that have attracted increasing attention lately. Thus, the most primitive corrosion prevention method may point at a way to coat complex iron structures in an industrial environment. Here the ability of phosphatidic acid, a natural lipid, to coat and protect iron surfaces was examined. Iron coated quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors were used for the experiments, to monitor the deposition of the lipid as well as the acidic corrosion (dissolution) of iron in situ, in real time. The sensors were coated by self-assembled monolayers of di-myristoyl phosphatidic acid using the liposome deposition method. In this process, 50-100 nm vesicles formed by the lipid are delivered in an aqueous solution and spontaneously coat the iron surfaces upon contact. QCM and ellipsometry measurements confirmed that continuous bilayer and monolayer surface coatings can be achieved by this method. QCM measurements also confirmed that the layers were corrosion resistant in 0.01M acetic acid solution that would dissolve the thin iron layer in minutes in the absence of the protective coating. XPS results suggested a chemisorption-based mechanism of phosphatidic acid attachment to the iron surface. Hence, liposome deposition of phosphatidic acid offers a suitable solution to coat iron surfaces in inaccessible structures in situ.
Tree ring growth as a response of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) from Rudnik Forest District to climatic factors
Authors: Tomczyk-Kida Monika , Durło Grzegorz B. , Wilczyński Sławomir
Published: July 2019

The aim of the study was to evaluate the sensitivity of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) from the Rudnik Forest District on the selected meteorological elements and to develop a chronology of local tree-ring width and the annual sensitivity.

Based on the analysis, the site chronology of silver fir was developed and the strength of the relationship between the climate components and the width of annual rings was calculated. In addition, we examined the degree of homogeneity of short-term incremental response, rated the representativeness of the chronology and climate signal strength.

Having analysed the indicator years, namely 1932–2013, we concluded that the growth of firs was positively influenced mainly by air temperature in winter, and to a lesser extent, by precipitation in spring and summer. The main factors that limit its growth are cold winters, cool and low rainfall summers, and rainy springs.
Reproduction of silver fir (Abies alba Mill) forests in the Ukrainian Carpathians
Authors: Mohytych Vasyl , Sułkowska Małgorzata , Klisz Marcin
Published: July 2019

Existing knowledge of the Ukrainian foresters related to the historical changes and current state of silver fir forests, as well as on the various methods of restoration of such forests in the Ukrainian Carpathians were discussed. Forest cover of fir stands in this region has been diminishing in the last two centuries. Only in the period from 1947 to 1956, the area of fir stands in Ukrainian Carpathians decreased by 38.8%. Currently, the restoration of fir stands in these areas are crucial for Ukrainian forestry. Therefore, the natural as well as artificial regeneration using seeds obtained from seed orchards are currently used. Thus, improving the forest stands’ conditions mostly composed of single-spruce plantations need to be improved through changing the species compositions. However, the restoration of fir stands is time and labour-intensive, and require a long-term strategy.
Empathy or Empathies? Uncertainties in the Interdisciplinary Discussion
Authors: Pinotti Andrea , Salgaro Massimo
Published: July 2019

The term empathy has become a linguistic commonplace in everyday communication as well as in interdisciplinary research. The results of the research questions, raised in the last hundred (and more) years, coming from different areas, such as aesthetics, psychology, neurosciences and literary theory, lack in fact a clear concept of empathy. Not surprisingly, a recent paper has identified up to 43 distinct definitions of empathy in academic publications. By reconstructing the main research lines on empathy, our paper highlights the reasons for this conceptual inadequacy and the deficiencies in the theorization of empathy that create misleading interpretations thereof. Along the line connecting Plato’s insights on empathic experiences to the present neuroscientific experiments, a broad spectrum of issues is deployed for which “empathy” functions as an umbrella term covering a net of categorical relationships – projection, transfer, association, expression, animation, anthropomorphization, vivification, fusion, and sympathy – that only partially overlap. Our paper therefore recommends that “empathy” should not be assumed as a self-evident notion but instead preliminarily clarified in its definition every time we decide to have recourse to it.
Analysis and Modeling of Energy Demand System in Iran’s Buildings and the Industry
Authors: Emami Seyed Morteza , Ravanshadnia Mehdi , Rahimi Mahmood
Published: July 2019

In this study, the demand of the Iran’s energy carriers is analyzed and modeled for the country’s largest consumer, buildings and related industries, in the status quo and future perspective. To this objective, the building sector is divided into two sections: household section (residential buildings) and services (business-office and service buildings) according to the ISIC classification that each of these sections is divided into sub-sections. In addition, building-related industries include some non-metallic minerals and basic metals industries. Regarding to scenario-based energy planning helps to increase the understanding of different probabilities in the future. The future outlook for the system is modeled with the horizon of 2035 with the LEAP modeling tool in the “reference” scenario, indicating the sustainability of the existing energy system in the future. The results of modeling indicate an increasing demand for energy as expected that energy demand carriers in buildings and related industries from 559.8 million barrels in 2014 reach up to 1040.6 million barrels of crude oil equivalents in 2035. Therefore, in order to reduce energy consumption, solutions are modeled and analyzed according to the scenarios for “Improvement of energy consumption in buildings and related industries”, then the greenhouse gas emissions and their environmental effects are investigated.
Assessment of physicochemical and bacteriological groundwater quality in irrigated Triffa Plain, North-East of Morocco
Authors: Kadaoui Mohammed , Bouali Abderrahime , Arabi Mourad
Published: July 2019

The physicochemical and bacteriological quality of groundwater was assessed to show the impact of the agriculture and human activities in the Triffa Plain located in North-East of Morocco. The current levels of contamination of the groundwater were estimated by analysing electrical conductivity, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, orthophosphate, and indicators of faecal pollution content.

Water samples from 55 locations were collected during two period of time, the wet and the dry season of the year 2016. Result obtained indicated that most samples are highly contaminated. The electrical conductivity varied from 800 to 9 100 μS∙cm−1. Nitrate levels ranged from 25 to 216 mg·dm−3, with 78% of samples exceeding the critical level value set at 50 mg·dm−3. Nitrate concentrations are slightly higher during the wet period in 73% of studied cases. Nitrite rarely exceeded the normal rate fixed by World Health Organization and reached 0.90 mg·dm−3. Ammonia and orthophosphate contents do not exceed these norms.

The study revealed a wide contamination of groundwater by microbial agents such as, total coliforms, faecal coliforms and faecal streptococci, with content ranged from 0 to 14 000, 0 to 5 000 and 0 to 5 000 CFU·(100 cm3)−1 respectively, confirming the impact of septic tanks, wastewater discharge into rivers without treatment, and the use of animal waste on the ground water vulnerability.

Samplings and measurements were carried out according to the international standard ISO 13395, ISO 11732 and ISO 15681-2 for chemical compounds and ISO 9308-1 and ISO 7899-2 for microbiological numerations.
Faecal contamination of water in the Lake Mellah and its catchment area, north-eastern Algeria
Authors: Kherifi Wahida , Hecini Lynda , Bekiri Fedia , Kherici-Bousnoubra Houria
Published: July 2019

Lake Mellah close to the Mediterranean Sea in north-eastern Algeria belongs to valuable ornithological sites with numerous, often migratory, birds. To achieve the research goal, seventeen (17) sampling points were sampled based on the urbanization of the watershed. Water samples were taken at different wadis levels (upstream and downstream of settlements), as well as at the wastewater treatment plant and in Lake Mellah based on four measurement campaigns conducted at one frequency seasonal (high water, low water) during the year (2011/2012). Biological parameters (coliform faecal bacteria, streptococci) were analysed in water of the lake and its affluents in the laboratory of the Department of Health and Population, El Taref by the most probable number (MPN) technique of the Mac Grady table taken from various points. Obtained results were processed by the use of Bourgeois ratio (coliform faecal bacteria: streptococci) to indicate the origin of faecal contamination of waters and to establish maps of the spatio-temporal evolution of this ratio by the software Surfer 9. This way we obtained information of contamination of human origin during the dry season coming from domestic waste waters. In winter the ratio showed animal prevalence of contamination coming primarily from Animal Park in El Kala.
Multi-phase flow assessment for the fermentation process in mono-substrate reactor with skeleton bed
Authors: Wałowski Grzegorz
Published: July 2019

The selected techniques were reviewed and their technological aspects were characterized in the context of multi-phase flow for biogas production. The conditions of anaerobic fermentation for pig slurry in a mono-substrate reactor with skeleton bed were analysed. The required technical and technological criteria for producing raw biogas were indicated.

Design and construction of the mono-substrate model, biogas flow reactor, developed for cooperation with livestock buildings of various sizes and power from 2.5 kW to 40 kW. The installation has the form of a sealed fermentation tank filled with a skeletal deposit constituting a peculiar spatial system with regular shapes and a rough surface.

Incorporating a plant in such a production cycle that enables the entire slurry stream to be directed from the cowshed or pig house underrun channels to the reactor operating in the flow mode, where anaerobic digestion will take place, allows to obtain a biogas.

The paper presents preliminary results of experimental investigations in the field of hydrodynamic substrate mixing system for biogas flow assessment by the adhesive bed in the context of biogas production. The aim of the study was to assessment and shows the influence of the Reynolds number on the biogas resistance factor for the fermentation process in mono-substrate reactor with adhesive deposit. The measurement results indicate a clear effect of the Reynolds number in relation to the descending flow resistance coefficient for the adhesive bed.
Knowledge, Input-Output Complexity and the Notion of Sustainability
Authors: Sušnik Urban , Sušjan Andrej , Hrovatin Nevenka
Published: July 2019

The paper attempts to synthesize the analytical nucleus of classical political economy and modern ecological economics. In essence this means making a connection between social issues of income distribution, accumulation of capital and economic growth with biophysical limits to economic development. We first model a simple growing system of production and explore its potential to maintain sustainability when using a single natural resource. Taking into consideration the laws of thermodynamics we show that the long-term sustainability of such a simple system is unlikely. When the model is extended to incorporate a wider range of inputs used and commodities produced, such complexity accompanied by knowledge-based structural changes provides necessary conditions for the long-run sustainability of a growing economic system. Since input-output complexity results from the division of labour on the one hand and from intentional R&D policies on the other, this conclusion also brings forward some policy implications regarding income distribution in the society.
Expected Learning Outcomes: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis of Higher Education in Interior Architecture and Interior Design for the Thailand Development
Authors: Jewpairojkit Pornthep , Rattanolarn Thanin , Ekwuttiwongsa Songwut
Published: July 2019

Nowadays, the standard of professional education, interior architecture and interior design at higher education in Thailand must meet the certification criteria from the Professional Council. However, the expected learning outcomes results in the past studies has not studied the components of expected learning outcomes that are explicit and consistent with the 20-Year National Strategy. The researchers therefore aim to study such components to lead to the development of a standard measurement model to further expected learning outcomes. The researchers synthesized the initial components through the document to create and develop a questionnaire to evaluate the level of performance by estimating 5 levels and collect data with the senior students in the curriculum that has been approved by the Professional Council. Divided into 362 samples in the analysis of survey elements and 364 samples in Confirmatory Factor Analysis by Cluster Random Sampling from state and private universities. The survey component analysis resulted in 6 components along with confirmatory factor analysis of empirical component. The results of the sequence analysis of weight components from descending order as follows: Cognitive for profession skill (CP)=.96 Interpersonal relationship and responsibility skill (IR)=.89 In numerical communication and information technology skill(NC)=.87 Profession future of Thailand skill (PF)=.85 Knowledge for Professional practice skill (KPP)=.73 Moral and ethical skill (ME) =.67.
Designer Competency of the Fashion Design Undergraduate Students in Thailand: A Need Assessment Perspective
Authors: Boonthon Kornchanok , Ratanaolarn Thanin
Published: July 2019

This study used a mixed approach research design. The objectives were to study employers’ and college instructors’ needs regarding the designer competencies of undergraduate fashion-design students in Thailand, and to propose a guideline for the development of designer competencies of undergraduate fashion-design students in Thailand. For the quantitative approach, the research samples included 250 business owners/designers and 163 college instructors from fashion design faculties in Thai universities. A questionnaire was used as the research instrument. Data were collected by email. A “need-assessment analysis” technique was implemented in the data analysis. Regarding the qualitative approach, 15 key informants were interviewed via the interview script. A “content analysis” technique was used to analyse the qualitative data in this research. The results revealed that the employers’ need for improved components of knowledge competencies was consistent with the need of college instructors: both placed a priority on the development of language knowledge, followed by product-management knowledge, innovative knowledge and design knowledge. The employers’ need for improved components of skill competencies was consistent with the need of college instructors: both placed a priority on the development of language skills, followed by product-management skills, innovative and technology skills, and design skills. The employers’ need for improvement of qualification competencies was consistent with the need of college instructors: both placed a priority on the social role, followed by inner drive and self-conceptualisation, respectively. However, the findings indicated a difference between their needs: employers found that none of the qualification competencies needed rapid development, whereas college instructors indicated that one component needed rapid improvement – the social role.
Drivetrain Noise of The Gyroplane I-28
Authors: Cieślak Sławomir , Krzymień Wiesław
Published: July 2019

Gyroplanes, as ultralight aircraft, are popular transport vehicles recently. Ultralight aircraft flights take place at a low altitude – their noise is not without effect on people and nature. The localization of the sources of noise and a possibility to decrease the noise of an gyroplane are described in this paper. The rules of design and exploitation of gyroplanes do not define the limits of emitted noise.

Gyroplanes are not noisy aircraft vehicles but for their silencing the knowledge about the sources and frequency range of noise is necessary. The goal of the conducted measurement was to determine the gyro-plane noise properties and the noise measurement methods. The evaluation of the noise sources was made by acoustic beamforming and the directional emission with single microphones at various engine speeds.

The supplement of these tests should be the rotor noise measurement but that investigation should be performed on a special stand, on which the rotor propulsion noise would not disturb the measurement.
Flow Control on Helicopter-Rotor Blades Via Active Gurney Flap
Authors: Stalewski Wieńczysław
Published: July 2019

The Active Gurney Flap (AGF) is a small, flat tab cyclically deployed and retracted at lower surface of the rotor blade near its trailing edge. It is expected that the device may improve performance of modern helicopters. The main goal of presented investigations was to develop research methodology and next to use it in studies on phenomena occurring in the flow around helicopter-rotor blades equipped with AGF. Conducted CFD simulations aimed at validation of the developed methodology as well as at significant supplementing and extension of results of experimental research. Simplified sensitivity analysis has been conducted aiming at determination of geometric and motion-control parameters of the AGF, optimal from point of view of helicopter-performance improvement. Fully three-dimensional simulations of the rotor flight aimed at determination of flight conditions, in which the use of Active Gurney Flaps could significantly improve the rotorcraft performance.
Experimental Verification of Numerical Calculations with the Use of Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Bajurko Piotr , Dobrzański Przemysław
Published: July 2019

The article presents the results of research work performed under the TEBUK project, aiming primarily to develop a reference methodology for assessing the impact of damage on the strength of structures made of carbon epoxy prepregs. The tests described in the paper were concerned with a fragment of the structure (FS) of the TEBUK project demonstrator, made of carbon epoxy composite, with an artificial circular delamination measuring 40 mm in diameter. Numerical and experimental test of FS have been performed under quasi-static compression load. The buckling of the skin observed in the delamination area, as well as the propagation of the latter were investigated. The numerical calculations have been performed with the use of the commercially available MSC Marc/Mentat calculation suite based on the Finite Elements Methods. Results of the numerical calculations have been compared with experimental measurements made with the use of the Digital Image Correlation (DIC) method. The tests performed aimed to provide a preliminary verification of the numerical model. The results obtained have shown a very good correlation between the numerical and experimental results concerned with critical load levels at which stability of the layers separated by delamination is lost (buckling). The lack of convergence of the numerical model’s results after exceeding the critical load values has rendered it impossible to unequivocally compare the results concerned with propagation of the delamination area.
Mi-2 Helicopters Used Within the Structures of the Aviation Detachment of the Ministry of Interior
Authors: Konieczka Robert
Published: July 2019

In the article, the author presents the wide-scale use of Mi-2 helicopters in the different entities subordinated to the Minister of Interior - from the introduction of the design, until the present. Insights are presented pertaining to the early stages of the helicopter’s service life within the structures of the 103rd NJW MSW Aviation Regiment in the 1960s. The article describes selected aspects related to the introduction of the design, training, operational use and problems encountered. The service life of Mi-2 helicopters operating within the structures of the Ministry of Interior ended upon liquidation of the Ministry’s Aviation Detachment. That is when another chapter in the history of the helicopters was started, this time operated within the structures of the Police and Border Guard forces, where their service life has not been fully used up until this day. The paper describes the reality of every-day use to perform specific tasks, presents the location of aerodromes, touches upon a shift in the philosophy behind the use of the helicopters, and describes their strong and weak points. The PZL-Kania helicopter has been also presented, being a modernized version of the Mi-2, and still used in Poland within the aviation forces of the Ministry of Interior and Administration.
Flight Tests of Turboprop Engine with Reverse Air Intake System
Authors: Idzikowski Marek , Miksa Wojciech
Published: July 2019

This work presents selected results of I-31T propulsion flight tests, obtained in the framework of ESPOSA (Efficient Systems and Propulsion for Small Aircraft) project. I-31T test platform was equipped with TP100, a 180 kW turboprop engine. Engine installation design include reverse flow inlet and separator, controlled from the cockpit, that limited ingestion of solid particulates during ground operations. The flight tests verified proper air feed to the engine with the separator turned on and off. The carried out investigation of the intake system excluded possibility of hazardous engine operation, such as compressor stall, surge or flameout and potential airflow disturbance causing damaging vibration of the engine body. Finally, we present evaluation of total power losses associated with engine integration with the airframe.
Strain Optical Analysis of 3D Printing Elements in Different Additive Technologies in Comparison with the Finite Element Method
Authors: Kluska Ewelina , Gruda Piotr , Majca-Nowak Natalia
Published: July 2019

Research included in this article were conducted with a project: ‘Additive technology used in conduction with optical methods for rapid prototyping of 3D printed models’. In this article intellectualized three various 3D printing technologies: Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Material Jetting (PolyJet). Also, there was presented theory of Digital Image Correlation (DIC) as an optical method for strain analysis. The limitations of DIC system have been tested and detected. The test result for DIC system were shown for each method of additive technologies and the results were compared to Finite Element Method (FEM). Test specimens were printed in selected technologies for reference. DIC system has been used for displacement state in loaded objects. The last paragraph contains both summary and tests results.
Bionics in Aviation
Authors: Skalski Paweł
Published: July 2019

In the paper bionics as a field of knowledge and inspiration in the aviation technologies is presented. Bionics is a branch of science on the borderline of art and biology that studies the way living organisms work, as well as their structure, in order to use the results to build technical devices. In the introduction part definition of bionics is described. In the next part of this document the aviation technologies inspired by nature is depicted. Then, technologies inspired by the butterfly wing are presented. The paper ends with conclusions.
The Travelogue as a Mirror of Thought
Authors: Hamans Camiel
Published: July 2019

This paper discusses Dutch historical travelogues as a source for linguistic research. On the one hand one can find descriptions of exotic languages or undocumented remote dialects in travel journals, on the other hand one may come across philosophical and theoretical ideas about language in the utopian reports of imaginary voyages.
Who Is Conducting "Better" Employment Interviews? Antecedents of Structured Interview Components Use
Authors: Roulin Nicolas , Bourdage Joshua , Wingate Timothy
Published: July 2019

The employment interview remains a unique paradox. One the one hand, decades of research demonstrates that using more structured components (e.g., question consistency, evaluation standardization) can largely improve the psychometric properties of interviews. On the other hand, although interviews are almost universally used, many interviewers still resist using structured formats. We examined the use of seven structure components by 131 professional interviewers, and their association with three types of antecedents: interviewers’ background (e.g., experience, training), the focus of the interview (selection vs. recruitment), and interviewers’ personality (based on the HEXACO model). Interviewers’ background (i.e., training) and the focus of the interview were largely associated with the use of question sophistication, question consistency, note-taking, or evaluation standardization. Personality (i.e., extraversion) was mostly associated with rapport-building or probing. Our findings highlight the importance of providing formal training to interviewers, but suggest that attempting to eliminate less-structured components could encounter resistance from some interviewers.