Development Of Methodology Research Articles

Burj Rashid: a tale of two tides – rising waters and changing traditions

PurposeThis paper delves into the traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and practices of Burj Rashid, an ancient historical city on Egypt’s northern coast, which stands at the meeting point of the Nile’s western branch and the Mediterranean Sea. Burj Rashid boasts a strategic location and rich natural resources and has a long history of relationships between land, people, river, sea and climate change, serving as a model for residents’ adaptation to their ever-changing surroundings.Design/methodology/approachClimate studies have exposed the village’s vulnerability to climate and topographical hazards such as rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, decreasing precipitation, encroaching seas due to sea level rise, coastal erosion and high soil salinization. These factors pose a high risk of water scarcity, crop failure in the medium term, potential famine in the long term and declining fish populations, threatening fishing communities. To address these challenges, the Net Zero: Heritage for Climate Action project - launched by the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) and the First Aid and Resilience for Culture in Times of Crisis program, funded by Swedish Postcode - proposes a research and development methodology through a platform that weaves together heritage knowledge and climate science. The Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation has implemented a platform in Burj Rashid as an innovative site to study risks, vulnerabilities and capacities.FindingsThe project will explore root causes, identify risk scenarios and establish a stakeholder map to guide the development of mitigation strategies and resilience-building measures.Originality/valueBy harnessing the wisdom of TEK and integrating it with scientific knowledge, the project paves the way for innovative climate change adaptation strategies that ensure the long-term sustainability of Burj Rashid’s unique cultural heritage.

Guidelines in Neurosurgery: a critical appraisal.

The process of grading and stratifying evidence in the extensive literature on neurosurgical guidelines has evolved significantly, ranging from high-quality standards to suggested options. However, the methodology for guideline development has become increasingly complex, leading to challenges in their application across various neurosurgical specialties and settings. This mini review aims to explore the practical implications of published suggestions for managing neurosurgical patients. A critical and focused collection of published literature concerning guidelines in different neurosurgical topics, from Pubmed and other sources formed the basis of this non-systematic narrative review. Only guidelines produced by neurosurgeons in the era of evidence based medicine (after 1996) were included. Neurosurgical guidelines often rely on a limited number of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Class I evidence, particularly in surgical and emergency contexts where randomization of patient treatments may conflict with established clinical practices. Challenges also include the timely update of guidelines, which sometimes lags behind rapid shifts in evidence, and varying methodologies in guideline production that can result in divergent recommendations. Geographical disparities in disease burden and literature production further influence guideline applicability, suggesting a need for greater inclusion of authors from Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to enhance realism and global relevance. Consensus conferences and expert reviews may serve as viable alternatives to address these challenges. While Evidence-Based Medicine remains pivotal, critical appraisal and practical application of guidelines must consider these complexities to optimize patient care and outcomes.

Microbial Enzymes for the Biodegradation of Polylactic Acid (PLA): Molecular Docking Simulation and Biodegradation Pathway Proposal

Polylactic acid (PLA), as a biodegradable polymer, finds widespread utility across diverse sectors, encompassing transportation, agriculture, biomedicine, textiles, electronics, and food packaging. Nonetheless, its degradation kinetics exhibit significant environmental sensitivity, necessitating the development of novel biotechnological methodologies to investigate the microbial and enzymatic constituents implicated in PLA biodegradation. In this review, molecular docking simulations are discussed to analyze the enzymatic degradation of PLA using specific enzymes: proteinase K, PLA depolymerase, and lipase. The binding energy, binding affinity, and dimensions of PLA-binding sites within the enzyme cavities have been examined for each enzyme. The binding amino acid residues mainly include serine, histidine, and aspartate for all plastics, while the interactions involve Van der Waals forces, conventional hydrogen bonding, carbon-hydrogen bonding, and Pi-interactions. Based on our synthesis of the literature, a theoretical PLA biodegradation pathway that illustrates the interaction pattern between PLA and the enzymes, as well as the degradation mechanism is proposed. Our review indicates that in natural environments, enzymes work synergistically, utilizing their unique properties to facilitate an efficient sequential catalytic process for PLA degradation. This integrative approach elucidates the mechanistic underpinnings and metabolic cascades governing PLA degradation, enriching insights into enzymatic catalysis and microbial enzyme-mediated plastic biotransformation. Consequently, a comprehensive understanding of these processes is paramount in optimizing biodegradation kinetics and enhancing the environmental performance of biodegradable polymers. This review provides a detailed framework for refining PLA management strategies and advancing sustainable polymer utilization.

Dough kneading load simulation for stand mixer using smoothed particle hydrodynamics approach

Stand mixer is a consumer-durable appliance, primarily used for kneading, whipping, shredding, mixing, scrambling, etc. During the kneading process, there arises a situation when the hook gets stuck or the stand mixer starts to wobble or shake. Repercussions of these phenomena could lead to overheating of the transmission system, inability of the stand mixer to provide the required torque, bowl stripping out, etc. Usually, in industries, physical tests are carried out to determine the torque load exerted on the stand mixer. Hence, through this research, we intend to develop a simulation methodology to determine the torque load exerted by the dough on the stand mixer during the kneading process. The proposed research comprises the dough material model, the application of the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) approach for representing the dough material, due to its ability to withstand high deformation and shearing loads, and the development of simulation methodology. Sensitivity analysis was also carried out to examine the effect of various parameters on the simulation results.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a global health issue, and a significant portion of individuals with MDD experience Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), characterized by the lack of response to adequately trialed antidepressant medication and therapy. This systematic review aims to investigate the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) as an intervention for individuals with TRD. We will conduct a thorough search for publications of randomized clinical trials and quasi-experimental studies in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science databases, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Furthermore, reference lists of included studies will be manually screened for additional relevant articles, with no restrictions on language or publication date. The search will be conducted from the inception of the databases until June 2024. Our PICO-guided research questions are: (1) In adults with Treatment-Resistant Depression, is MBCT more effective than standard care or other active treatments in reducing depressive symptoms? (2) In adults with Treatment-Resistant Depression, does MBCT demonstrate a comparable safety profile to standard care or other active treatments? The quality of the included studies will be assessed independently using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RoB 2). This study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy as an intervention for Treatment-Resistant Depression, and will employ the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology to appraise the confidence in the evidence. Prospero registration ID: CRD42023411978. Registered on April 07, 2023.

3D-Aligner: advanced computational tool for correcting image distortion in expansion microscopy

Expansion Microscopy (ExM) is an innovative and cost-effective super-resolution microscopy technique that has become popular in cell biology research. It achieves super-resolution by physically expanding specimens. Since its introduction, ExM has undergone continuous methodological developments to enhance its resolution and labeling capabilities. However, ExM imaging often encounters sample drift during image acquisition due to the physical movement of the expanded hydrogel, posing a significant challenge for accurate image reconstruction. Despite many proposed experimental solutions to mitigate sample drift, a universal solution has yet to be established. In response to this challenge, we developed 3D-Aligner, an advanced and user-friendly image analysis tool designed to computationally correct drift in ExM images for precise three-dimensional image reconstruction and downstream quantification. We demonstrate that 3D-Aligner effectively determines and corrects drift in ExM images with different expansion rates and various fluorescently labeled biological targets, showcasing its capabilities and robustness in drift correction. Additionally, we validate the precision of 3D-Aligner by comparing drift values across different labeled targets and highlight the importance of drift correction in quantification of biological structures.

Statistical analysis of industry scale up draft coal gasifier using response surface methodology for sustainable development

Statistical analysis of industry scale up draft coal gasifier using response surface methodology for sustainable development

Fusion and innovation: Exploring the application and effects of the Italian Bel Canto technique in enhancing the expressiveness of Chinese national vocal performance

In exploring the teaching and performance arts of integrating the Chinese national vocal techniques with the Western Bel Canto, existing research has made significant progress but still there are limited studies available. This study explores the integration of the Italian Bel Canto techniques with the Chinese national vocal music to enhance the Chinese national vocalist performance. By systematically reviewing the literature and analyzing teaching practices, this paper examines both vocal techniques' fundamental characteristic like breath control, emotional expression, and resonance, and their application in enhancing the expressiveness of the Chinese national vocal performance. The research findings indicate that the breath control and resonance techniques of Bel Canto significantly enhance vocalists’ sound quality and emotional expression, while the Chinese national vocal music provides unique emotional conveyance and tonal flavors. This paper aims to provide new perspectives and methodologies for cross-cultural exchange and development in vocal arts. The study emphasizes that the integration of the Italian Bel Canto techniques with the Chinese national vocal music is of great value and significance for promoting the development of vocal arts and innovating vocal teaching. By integrating the Italian Bel Canto technique into the Chinese national vocal performance, we can augment the expressive capabilities of the Chinese vocalists, offering them fresh tools and approaches to enhance their artistry while preserving the distinctiveness of the Chinese vocal traditions. Future research should continue to explore theoretical and practical methods in this field to promote the prosperity of vocal arts and make greater contributions to the exchange and integration of global music cultures.

Highlights of veterinary entomology, 2023: beyond the barnyard: exploring the wild side of veterinary entomology.

Due to economic and food security concerns, veterinary entomology has traditionally focused on livestock pests and ectoparasites. However, recognizing the significant environmental changes of the Anthropocene era, there is a need to broaden the scope to include pests and ectoparasites of wildlife. This review highlights key studies from 2023 that go beyond the barnyard and represent this expanded focus. Key areas explored include the development and application of unique methodologies, the impact of arthropods on behavior, and the effects of anthropogenic and environmental influences on pests, ectoparasites, and hosts. By adopting a broader perspective, veterinary entomologists can develop new collaborations and better understand the complex interactions between pests, ectoparasites, and a diverse array of nonhuman vertebrates. This comprehensive understanding is essential for advancing global health and biodiversity conservation.

Endogenous Cu(II) Labeling for Distance Measurements on Proteins by EPR.

In-cell measurements of the relationship between structure and dynamics to protein function is at the forefront of biophysics. Recently, developments in EPR methodology have demonstrated the sensitivity and power of this method to measure structural constraints in-cell. However, the need to spin label proteins ex-situ or use noncanonical amino acids to achieve endogenous labeling remains a bottleneck. In this work we expand the methodology to endogenously spin label proteins with Cu(II) spin labels and describe how to assess in-cell spin labeling. We quantify the amount of Cu(II)-NTA in cells, assess spin labeling, and account for orientational effects during distance measurements. We compare the efficacy of using heat-shock and hypotonic swelling to deliver spin label, showing that hypotonic swelling is a facile and reproducible method to efficiently deliver Cu(II)-NTA into E. coli. Notably, over six repeats we accomplish a bulk average of 57 μM spin labeled sites, surpassing existing endogenous labeling methods. The results of this work open the door for endogenous spin labeling that is easily accessible to the broader biophysical community.

Criticality assessment for raw materials: perspectives and focuses

AbstractOver the last two decades, several methodologies have been developed to assess raw material criticality, and, more precisely, analyze risks jeopardizing a secure raw material supply in the present and the future. The scientific community has not yet established an international consensus on how to evaluate these risks. This might seem surprising, but is a logical outcome of differences in defining aspects such as strategic interests, local resource availability, past experiences of resource shortages or dependencies, the respective international context, and many others. These factors depend strongly on context and can vary over time. To associate methodological choices with different perspectives, this paper introduces a selection of major criticality studies, and anchors them in time, the economic position of the focal actor of the analysis, as well as the system under study. We find that the development of criticality methodologies is largely driven by demand-sided actors and has gained in detail and exhaustiveness over time. The evaluation of supply risk is central to all methodologies, whereas the associated damage is assessed at different levels depending on the complexity of the regarded system. Depending on the system perspective, the final purpose of the criticality assessment can vary from informing policies, comparing alternatives, identifying bottlenecks, or developing mitigation strategies.

Factorial design methodology for synthesizing zeolites: A critical review

AbstractThis review shows an outlook about several works which have used the factorial design methodology for synthesizing zeolites and mesoporous materials, included the use of wastes as sources of silicon and aluminum. In the bibliography several interesting works were identified with a complete development of the factorial design methodology. However, there are other works that showed a limited statistical analysis of the results. In spite of these issues, their contribution in the advance of synthesis of zeolites is important. Moreover, different ways to measure the crystallinity were detected being the X‐ray diffraction (XRD) the most used technique. This work also gives a proposal of the complete factorial design methodology as a guide in future works for synthesizing zeolites or zeo‐types materials. This work presents a detailed review of the methodology of designing experiments for the synthesis of zeolite or zeo‐type materials, where it has been shown and analyzed the type of design used, because the choice of a design involves a large number of experiments or few experiments thus facilitating the production of zeolite, in addition to the factors that influence the synthesis give information of the type to obtained zeolites, also includes a guide for applying this methodology. Experiment design methodology can help to produce high quality zeolites from virgin raw material or waste that impact the economy of the zeolite industry.

Increasing the speed of digital devices using the ASMD-FSMD method using non-blocking operators

The ASMD-FSMD method for designing digital devices is considered, which consists of constructing a block diagram of an algorithmic state machine with a data path (ASMD), which describes the behavior of the device, and creating project code in Verilog in the form of a finite state machine with a data processing path. (finite state machine with datapath – FSMD). One of the directions for the development of the ASMD-FSMD methodology is the use of features of the hardware description language (HDL). A hypothesis has been put forward: in the ASMD-FSMD technique, it is possible to apply several non-blocking assignment operators to the same variable in one synchronization cycle, which will lead to an increase in device performance. The hypothesis put forward was investigated in the design of synchronous multipliers that implement the classical multiplication algorithms c and d. Experimental studies have confirmed the validity of the put forward hypothesis, while the speed of the multipliers increases two to three times, and the cost of implementation in most cases decreases compared to the traditional approach.

Methodology for the selection of learning measures for the competence development of assembly workers

ABSTRACT Mass personalization and shorter product life cycles complicate the assembly of manufacturing companies. To handle the complexity, a high number of employees execute varying assembly tasks. Their work is characterized by learning new tasks frequently to produce different variants. To achieve good learning results in a short amount of time, a suitable individual assembly workers’ competence development process is crucial. Therefore, this publication shows the development of a user methodology to plan the competence development process focusing on selecting learning measures that fit both the work situation and learning employees. The presented user methodology is based on a standardized description and selection procedure for learning measures by using results of a Domain Mapping Matrix, Delphi study, and expert interviews. The publication contributes to improved competence development to support the strategic empowerment of the workforce and to increase the flexibility in manual assembly.

A novel approach to measure perceived customer centricity in the passenger airline industry: Index development and validation

This study addresses a significant gap in current research by developing and validating a comprehensive index for measuring perceived customer centricity in the passenger airline industry. The index was derived using a rigorous scale development methodology based on three surveys with a total of 963 participants. The process involved construct definition, item generation, and item validation through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The final measurement index comprises 19 items across four dimensions (Customer Care & Experience, Communication & Product, Sustainability, and Value) and demonstrates strong discriminant and convergent validity, providing a reliable tool for assessing customer perceptions. Therefore, this research introduces the first validated measure of perceived customer centricity specifically designed for the airline industry and offers practical insights for airline managers, enabling them to identify specific areas where customer perceptions fall short and to make targeted improvements. Additionally, the index serves as an alternative to the industry-wide adopted Net Promoter Score (NPS). It extends current literature by providing an industry-specific scale and offers a practical instrument for enhancing customer-centric strategies in real-world applications, thereby fostering long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. Additionally, it provides empirical evidence of the multidimensional nature of customer centricity and offers a validated tool that can be applied in future research to explore customer perceptions and their impact on airline performance, thus satisfying both practical and academic needs.

From Molecular Electronics to Molecular Intelligence.

Molecular electronics is a field that explores the ultimate limits of electronic device dimensions by using individual molecules as operable electronic devices. Over the past five decades since the proposal of a molecular rectifier by Aviram and Ratner in 1974 ( Chem. Phys. Lett.1974,29, 277-283), researchers have developed various fabrication and characterization techniques to explore the electrical properties of molecules. With the push of electrical characterizations and data analysis methodologies, the reproducibility issues of the single-molecule conductance measurement have been chiefly resolved, and the origins of conductance variation among different devices have been investigated. Numerous prototypical molecular electronic devices with external physical and chemical stimuli have been demonstrated based on the advances of instrumental and methodological developments. These devices enable functions such as switching, logic computing, and synaptic-like computing. However, as the goal of molecular electronics, how can molecular-based intelligence be achieved through single-molecule electronic devices? At the fiftieth anniversary of molecular electronics, we try to answer this question by summarizing recent progress and providing an outlook on single-molecule electronics. First, we review the fabrication methodologies for molecular junctions, which provide the foundation of molecular electronics. Second, the preliminary efforts of molecular logic devices toward integration circuits are discussed for future potential intelligent applications. Third, some molecular devices with sensing applications through physical and chemical stimuli are introduced, demonstrating phenomena at a single-molecule scale beyond conventional macroscopic devices. From this perspective, we summarize the current challenges and outlook prospects by describing the concepts of "AI for single-molecule electronics" and "single-molecule electronics for AI".

Eco-friendly solvents in liquid-liquid microextraction techniques for biological and environmental analysis: a critical review.

In recent years, green solvents have emerged as promising alternatives in the field of analytical chemistry, replacing conventional organic solvents known for their toxicity, volatility, and flammability. The combination of these solvents with liquid-liquid microextraction techniques has facilitated the development of simpler, faster, more economical, and environment-friendly methodologies for the analysis of samples of varying complexity. This review discusses the fundamental physicochemical properties and advantages of using deep eutectic solvents, ionic liquids, switchable-hydrophilicity solvents, supramolecular solvents, and surfactants as extractants. Furthermore, analytical methods based on liquid-liquid microextraction techniques developed in the last 5years for the determination of organic compounds and metals in biological and environmental samples are presented and discussed, highlighting their applications and benefits to improve analytical performance and sustainability.

Korean Guidelines for the Management and Antibiotic Therapy in Adult Patients with Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia.

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) are correlated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Guidelines that consider local epidemiologic data are fundamental for identifying optimal treatment strategies. However, Korea has no HAP/VAP guidelines. This study was conducted by a committee of nine experts from the Korean Academy of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases Respiratory Infection Study Group using the results of Korean HAP/VAP epidemiologic studies. Eleven key questions for HAP/VAP diagnosis and treatment were addressed. The Convergence of Opinion on Suggestions and Evidence (CORE) process was used to derive suggestions, and evidence levels and recommendation grades were in accordance with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Suggestions were made for the 11 key questions pertinent to diagnosis, biomarkers, antibiotics, and treatment strategies for adult patients with HAP/VAP. Using the CORE process and GRADE methodology, the committee generated a series of recommendations for HAP/VAP diagnosis and treatment in the Korean context.

APPLICATION FOR ANALYZING WATER QUALITY FOR TILAPIA FISH FARMING IN NET TANK

With the ability to provide food and income for the planet, fish farming and fishing, which are already widely practiced activities around the world, continue to grow across the globe. Water quality is essential for this type of activity. Controlling the chemical and physical factors of the water can ensure the success or failure of the farming. There are many ways to analyze water quality, but not all of them are simple or easy to use. The growing use of mobile devices has sought to facilitate this task, increasingly contributing to these and other activities. Aiming to support this evolution, the “Water Quality Monitor” application was modeled and developed, with the objective of providing, in a simple, easy and accessible way, relevant information on water quality scenarios for raising Nile tilapia fish in a cage-net farming environment. The application development methodology was based on the Rational Unified Process, focused on objects within programming and structured by UML diagrams. The final modeling proved capable of supporting the construction of an application to meet the expected requirements for assessing water quality, which during its use, allowed the control of chemical and physical factors of the water, ensuring the success of the creation, or indicating mitigating solutions for the corrections necessary for the process, being later validated in a case study.

Novel optimal high pressure determination method for CO2 air source heat pump water heater: Experimental study and methodology development

As an efficient and environment-friendly solution to replace traditional fuel-fired boiler, CO2 air source heat pump water heater (HPWH) is widely used in the commercial and residential water heating. In order to achieve the optimal performance of CO2 air source HPWH systems, the effects of electronic expansion valve (EEV) opening and inlet water flow rate on system performance are experimentally studied and the optimal matching of the two parameters are obtained in this study. Then, the relationship between the optimal high pressure and the optimal matching of EEV opening and water flow rate is discussed. Finally, a new parameter, the endpoint temperature difference (ΔTep), is defined and a novel control strategy of ΔTep = 0 is proposed to determine the optimal high pressure. The results indicate that the optimal matching of EEV opening and water flow rate corresponds to the optimal high pressure and the best COPheat of system. A smaller ΔTep corresponding to a better matching degree and a larger system COPheat. The maximum deviation between the high pressure determined by the proposed new control strategy and the optimal high pressure is less than 1.8 %, and the system COPheat under the proposed new control strategy can achieve more than 97.6 % of the maximum COPheat. Therefore, the proposed control strategy in the paper is better than that of the commonly used off-line optimal high pressure correlation and can provide guidance for the efficient operation of the CO2 air source HPWH system.