bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed cervical spine metastasis from intracranial solitary fibrous tumor
Authors: Arshad Mohammad Mohsin , Ali Arshad , Thabet Abdulnasser , AI-Bozom Issam A.
Published: August 2023

Cervical spine metastasis from primary intracranial solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) is an extremely rare clinical entity. This report focuses on its metastatic tendency, radiological imaging, management plan, and follow-up strategies in view of its long latency period for metastasis. A 35-year-old female presented with right-side cervical radiculopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging spine showed C7 vertebral body collapse with retropulsion and neural compression. Two years ago, the patient had surgical resection of intracranial SFT (World Health Organization grade 3) with no evidence of recurrence on follow-up imaging. Cervical C7 metastasis has been decompressed and fused by the anterior cervical approach. Histopathology confirmed SFT metastasis to the spine, and the patient received adjuvant radiotherapy. Cervical metastasis from well-controlled primary intracranial SFT poses a significant challenge for its diagnostic and management planning. Serial pre-emptive surveillance is warranted with regular imaging and appropriate patient counseling.
Three-Dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks with nia Nets for Efficient Separation of Benzene/Cyclohexane Mixtures
Authors: Chang Jianhong , Chen Fengqian , Li Hui , Suo Jinquan , Zheng Haorui , Zhang Jie , Wang Zitao , Zhu Liangkui , Valtchev Valentin , Qiu Shilun , Fang Qianrong
Published: August 2023

The synthesis of three-dimensional (3D) covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with highly connected building blocks presents a significant challenge. In this study, we report two novel 3D COFs with the nia topology, named JUC-641 and JUC-642, by introducing planar hexagonal and triangular prism nodes for the first time. The resulting materials display high crystallinity, excellent thermal/chemical stability, a through-hole structure, and a large specific surface area. Notably, our adsorption studies and breakthrough experiments reveal that both COFs exhibit exceptional separation capabilities, surpassing previously reported 3D COFs and most porous organic polymers, with a separation factor of up to 2.02 for benzene and cyclohexane. Additionally, dispersion-corrected density functional theory analysis suggests that the outstanding performance of these 3D COFs can be attributed to the incorporation of highly aromatic building blocks and the presence of extensive pore structures. Consequently, this research not only expands the diversity of COFs but also highlights the potential of functional COF materials as promising candidates for environmentally-friendly separation applications.
Region of Interest Selection for GC×GC-MS Data using a Pseudo Fisher Ratio Moving Window with Connected Components Segmentation
Authors: Giebelhaus Ryland , de la Mata A. Paulina , Harynuk James
Published: August 2023

Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC×GC-MS) data present several challenges for analysis largely because chemical factors drift along the chromatographic modes across different chromatographic runs, and there is frequently a lack of reliable molecular ion measurements with which to align data across multiple samples. Tensor decomposition techniques such as Parallel Factor Analysis (PARAFAC2/PARAFAC2×N) allow analysts to deconvolve closely eluting signals for quantitative and qualitative purposes. These techniques make relatively few assumptions about chromatographic peak shapes or the relative abundance of noise and allow for highly accurate representations of the underlying chemical phenomena using well-characterized and scrutinized principles of chemometrics. However, expert intervention and supervision is required to select appropriate Regions of Interest (ROI) and numbers of chemical components present in each ROI. We previously reported an automated ROI selection algorithm for GC-MS data in Giebelhaus et al. where we observed the ratio of the first and second eigenvalues within a moving window across the entire chromatogram. Here, we present an extension of this work to automatically detect ROIs in GC×GC-MS chromatograms, while making no assumptions about peak shape. First we calculate the probabilities of each acquisition being in a ROI, then apply connected components segmentation to discretize the regions of interest. For sparse chromatograms we found the algorithm detected spurious peaks. To address this, we implemented an iterative ROI selection process where we autoscaled the moving window to the standard deviation of the noise from the previous iteration. Using three user-defined parameters, we generated informative ROIs on a wide range of GC×GC-TOFMS chromatograms.
Temperature-Programmed Desorption Approach to Understanding the Development of Semiconductors and Catalysts
Authors: Onivefu Asishana
Published: August 2023

This comprehensive article review delves into the extensive utility of temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) as a valuable technique for understanding the intricate development of semiconductors and catalysts. TPD serves as a powerful tool that provides profound insights into the surface chemistry of materials, enabling researchers to gain a comprehensive understanding of various crucial aspects. The article covers a wide range of TPD aspects, including the analysis of surface functional groups, system temperature control, the impact of oxidation and surface treatment, the significance of heat treatment, the dynamics of adsorption and desorption processes, the thermodynamics underlying TPD measurements, surface group characterization techniques, accurate analysis, and measurements considerations, and the importance of sequential surface treatment. By comprehending these multifaceted aspects, researchers can effectively optimize the performance of semiconductors and catalysts, as well as develop novel materials with enhanced properties. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the remarkable versatility and power of TPD in the dynamic realm of semiconductor and catalyst development.
An Accurate and Efficient SAXS/SANS Implementation Including Solvation Layer Effects Suitable for Molecular Simulations.
Authors: Ballabio Federico , Paissoni Cristina , Bollati Michela , de Rosa Matteo , Capelli Riccardo , Camilloni Carlo
Published: August 2023

Small-angle X-ray and neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS) provide valuable information on biomolecules in solution and are particularly well-suited to complement a wide range of structural techniques, including molecular dynamics simulations. As contrast-based techniques, they are sensitive not only to structural properties but also to the solvent-solute interactions. Their use in molecular dynamics simulations requires a forward model that should be as fast and accurate as possible. Here we show that it is possible to calculate SAXS and SANS using a coarse-grained representation of one bead per amino acid and three beads for nucleic acid with form factors that can be corrected on-the-fly to account for their interaction with the solvent at no additional computational cost. We use SAXS data measured for the closed state of Gelsolin and previous data for a UP1-microRNA complex to show that such approach allows to refine the structure and dynamics of proteins and nucleic acids. Our hybrid resolution small angle scattering (hySAS) implementation, being distributed in PLUMED, is ready to be coupled with atomistic and coarse-grained simulations using diverse restraining strategies.
18F-Fluorination of 2-methyl-6-nitrobenzenesulfonate ester and its application to the synthesis of a 18F-labeled amino acid.
Authors: Iida Shogo , Tago Tetsuro , Tada Masatoshi , Toyohara Jun , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: August 2023

In the development of an efficient 18F-labeling method for the synthesis of PET tracers, it is essential not only to improve the efficiency of [18F]fluorine incorporation into a carrier but also to minimize non-radioactive side products from the precursor. Highly reactive sulfonate esters are promising precursors for 18F-nucleophilic fluorination under mild conditions. However, the expected labeling efficiency from the precursor is often hampered by its competitive degradation due to coexisting bases during 18F-fluorination. In this report, we designed a 2-methyl-6-nitrobenzenesulfonate (2-MeNs) ester as a precursor for 18F-fluorination, in which the methyl group suppresses hydrolysis of the sulfonate ester via steric hindrance. An increase in labeling efficiency in the 18F-labeling of a neopentyl labeling group was observed for the neopentyl 2-MeNs ester compared with that of the 2-nitrobenzenesulfonate ester. Ultimately, we achieved the automated synthesis of an 18F-labeled amino acid using a neopentyl labeling group by using a 2-MeNs ester as a precursor.
THE RESULTS OF MODELLING THE ACID POLLUTION IMPACT ON THE PHOTOSYNTHETIC APPARATUS OF THE LEWINSKY SPECIOSA MOSS
Authors: Мейсурова А.Ф. , Бревдо Е.Ю.
Published: August 2023

Изучено влияние кислотных поллютантов на фотосинтетическую систему эпифитного мха Lewinskya speciosa Nees. Выяснено, что воздействие поллютантов вызывает существенное снижение содержания хлорофиллов (a+b), которое сопряжено с внешними морфологическими изменениями. Установлено двухкратное изменение суммарного содержания пигментов по сравнению с фоновыми концентрациями в зависимости от вида поллютанта. Величины соотношений хлорофиллов (a/b), как отражение адаптационных процессов возрастают в первые две недели и снижаются в последующие, достигая значения ниже фоновых. При воздействии поллютантов в большей степени изменяется содержание Хл a. Выявлено, что к действию аэрозоля HNO3 L. speciosа проявляет большую чувствительность чем к H2SO4.

The article analyses the acid pollutants impact on the photosynthetic system of the epiphytic moss Lewinskya speciosa Nees. It is found out that the impact of pollutants causes a significant decrease in the content of chlorophylls (a+b) that is accompanied by external morphological changes. A twofold difference is found in the total content of pigments compared to the background, depending on the type of pollutants. The quantity of the chlorophyll ratio (a/b), as a reflection of the adaptation processes, increases in the first two weeks and decreases in the following, hitting the mark below the background. Cl a is mostly sensitive to pollutants. According to a thorough research, it is the epiphytic mosses L. speciosum that are more susceptible to HNO3 aerosol effect than H2SO4.
ASSESSING THE LABOR STRESS AND MORBIDITY IN LABOR MIGRANS DURING THE PANDEMIC
Authors: Ходжиев М. , Юшкова О.И. , Капустина А.В. , Тихонова Г.И.
Published: August 2023

Изучено влияние производственных факторов, обусловливающих частоту некоторых заболеваний, связанных с работой, проанализирована их зависимость от срока пребывания на территории РФ, т.е. стажа работы мигрантов. В результате анализа данных изменения функционального состояния работников установлено возрастание рабочего напряжения в период пандемии и распространённости некоторых заболеваний у мигрантов обследованных профессиональных групп. Исследованиями выявлено возрастание физиологических затрат (физиологической стоимости) при выполнении работы в условиях пандемии у мигрантов разных профессиональных групп: курьеры по доставке еды, метростроевцы, работники дорожной сети, женщины, работающие в социальной сфере.

The article examines the influence of production factors that determine the frequency of certain work-related diseases, analyzes their dependence on the length of stay in the territory of the Russian Federation, i.e. the length of work of migrants. As a result of the analysis of data on changes in the functional state of workers, an increase in working stress during the pandemic and the prevalence of certain diseases among migrants of the surveyed occupational groups was established. Studies have established an increase in physiological costs (physiological cost) when performing work in a pandemic among migrants of different professional groups: food delivery couriers, metro builders, road network workers, women working in the social sphere.
DETERMINATION OF THE SEX GENE (SRY) OF A HUMAN FETUS IN THE MOTHER'S BLOOD AFTER 9-10 WEEKS OF PREGNANCY
Authors: Панкрушина А.Н. , Калиничева И.А. , Резникова М.Н.
Published: August 2023

Произведено определение пола плода в 433 образцах плазмы крови женщин, находящихся на 9 по 26 неделях беременности, из которых ген SRY был идентифицирован в 217 образцах (мужской пол), в 216 образцах ген SRY отсутствовал (женский пол). Выделение фетальной ДНК на спин-колонках и магнитных частицах и использование пробирок типа CPDA оказались наиболее предпочтительны для определения пола плода. Зависимости определения гена SRY от срока беременности и массы тела обследованных женщин обнаружено не было. Срок доставки образцов плазмы в течении 2-ух дней является наиболее оптимальным для анализа по определению пола.

Fetal sex was determined in 433 blood plasma samples of women aged 9 to 26 weeks of pregnancy, of which the SRY gene was identified in 217 samples (male), in 216 samples the SRY gene was absent (female sex). Isolating fetal DNA on spin columns and magnetic particles and using CPDA-type test tubes have proven to be most preferred for determining fetal sex. The dependence of the determination of the SRY gene on the duration of pregnancy and body weight of the examined women was not found. The delivery time of plasma samples within 2 days is the most optimal for sex analysis.
LATE NESTING OF THE ORIENTAL TURTLE DOVE (STREPTOPELIA ORIENTALIS, COLUMBIDAE, COLUMBIFORMES) ON THE EASTERN ISLAND EDGE OF THE AREAL (ITURUP ISLAND, THE BIG KURIL RIDGE)
Authors: Виноградов А.А.
Published: August 2023

Выполнен анализ данных о фенологии, биотопической приуроченности, гнездовой биологии, успешности гнездования и численности большой горлицы (Streptopelia orientalis, Columbidae, Columbiformes) на восточной окраине ареала. Наблюдения проведены автором в августе–сентябре 2022 г. на о. Итуруп, в рамках комплексной экспедиции третьего полевого сезона “Восточный бастион – Курильская гряда”, организованной Экспедиционным центром Минобороны РФ и РГО. Подробно рассмотрены ранее не описанные особенности гнездового поведения большой горлицы, включая анализ проявлений гнездовой активности членов пары в период насиживания и выкармливания потомства, бюджет времени основных компонентов поведения гнездовых партнёров и птенцов. Обсуждается тактика сохранения гнезда и его обитателей при опасности, репродуктивные возможности вида для потенциального полициклического гнездования на восточной островной окраине ареала.

The analysis of data on phenology, biotope, nesting biology, nesting success and abundance of the Oriental Turtle Dove (Streptopelia orientalis, Columbidae, Columbiformes) on the eastern edge of the range has been done. The observations were carried out by the author in August–September 2022 on the island Iturup on the course of the complex expedition “Eastern Bastion - Kuril Ridge”, organized by both the Expedition Center of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation and the Russian Geographical Society. Previously unknown features of nesting behavior of the Oriental Turtle Dove are described in detail, including an analysis of nesting activity of the couple during the period of incubation and rearing the offspring at nest, as well as the time budget of general nesting patterns of partners and chicks. Ways of preserving the nest and chicks, and the reproductive potential of the species for polycyclic nesting on the eastern insular margin of the range are discussed.
ECTOPARASITES OF BATS IN THE TVER REGION
Authors: Виноградова Е.А. , Емельянова А.А. , Христенко Е.А. , Волкова А.С. , Максимова В.А. , Николаева Н.Е.
Published: August 2023

В статье приводятся сведения по фауне эктопаразитов гладконосых летучих мышей (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae), обитающих на территории Тверской области. Анализ материалов исследований 2021- 2022гг. На изучаемой территории было обследовано 9 видов рукокрылых и собрано 16 видов паразитических членистоногих (клещи, кровососущие мухи, блохи).

The article provides information on the fauna of ectoparasites of smoothnosed bats (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) inhabiting the territory of the Tver region. Analysis of research materials 2021-2022 In the study area, 9 species of bats were examined and 16 species of parasitic arthropods (ticks, bloodsucking flies, fleas) were collected.
PHENETIC STRUCTURE OF THE POPULATIONS OF THE COLORADO POTATO BETLE AS AN INDICATOR OF THE PEST CONTROL METHODS (EXAMPLE OF THE CENTRAL ELEMENT OF THE PRONOTUM ORNAMENT)
Authors: Емельянова А.А. , Николаева Н.Е. , Пудовкина Т.А.
Published: August 2023

При анализе фенофондов двух популяций колорадского жука на примере фенов центрального непарного элемента рисунка переднеспинки «А» обнаружен ряд отличий Leptinotarsa decemlineata, обитающего на территории Тверской и Смоленской областей. На полях, где осуществлялся сбор картофельного листоеда, применялись неодинаковые методы борьбы с этим вредителем: в Смоленской области основным способом являлся ручной сбор, в Тверской области картофельное поле регулярно обрабатывалось инсектицидами, относящимися к группе пиретроидов. Предполагаемые фены-маркеры устойчивости к химическим препаратам преимущественно характеризуются простыми вариациями элемента «А» – это широкие или узкие параллельные полосы и асимметричные версии этого базового рисунка.

When analyzing the pheno pools of two populations of the Colorado potato beetle using the example of phenes of the central unpaired element of the pronotum pattern "A", a number of differences were found in Leptinotarsa decemlineata, which lives on the territory of the Tver and Smolensk regions. In the fields where the potato leaf beetle was (beetles were?) collected, different methods were used to combat this pest: in the Smolensk region, manual collection was the main method, in the Tver region, the potato field was regularly treated with insecticides belonging to the pyrethroid group. Putative phene markers of chemical resistance are predominantly characterized by simple variations of the "A" element - wide or narrow parallel stripes and asymmetrical versions of this basic pattern.
FORMATION OF A FISTULA IN FISH TO STUDY THE PROCESSES OF DIGESTION IN DYNAMICS
Authors: Пронина Г.И. , Петрушин А.Б. , Ревякин А.О.
Published: August 2023

Показана возможность прижизненного формирования фистулярного отверстия на передней части кишечника карпа для изучения процессов пищеварения в динамике

The possibility of in vivo formation of a fistular opening on the anterior part of the intestine of carp for studying the processes of digestion in dynamics is shown.
GROWING GRAPES IN THE TVER REGION
Authors: Андреева Е.А. , Григорьева Л.В. , Зуева Л.В.
Published: August 2023

Рассмотрены особенности агротехники выращивания некоторых сортов винограда в условия северных регионов. Оценена продуктивность и устойчивость сортов Изабелла, Боскоп Глория, Велес, Цимлянский при выращивани их в некоторых районах Тверской области.

The peculiarities of agrotechnics of growing some grape varieties in the conditions of the northern regions are considered. The productivity and stability of the varieties Isabella, Boskop Glory, Veles, and Tsimlyansky were evaluated when grown in some areas of the Tver region.
ON THE RESULTS OF LONG-TERM MONITORING OF THE GENTIANA CRUCIATA HABITATS IN THE ARGUNOV LIMESTONE QUARRY (MOSCOW REGION)
Authors: Куклина А.Г. , Озерова Н.А.
Published: August 2023

Дана характеристика местообитания редкого в Московской области вида Gentiana cruciata L. (Gentianaceae) на правобережье р. Осетр в урочище Ковылинская гора около д. Аргуново (городской округ Зарайск). Впервые этот вид отмечен здесь в 1951 г. Р.И. Дьяковой. После открытия Аргуновского месторождения известняка А.К. Скворцов, обследуя степной участок у д. Аргуново в 1954 г., G. cruciata не встретил. В 2020 г. авторы начали флористические исследования урочища, включая старый карьер. В 2022 г. заложено и описано 5 пробных площадок в различных биотопах с G. cruciata по общепринятой методике. Сравнение наших результатов с данными 1950–1960-х гг. и сведениями о хозяйственном использовании урочища Ковылинская гора позволили выявить этапы формирования ценопопуляции G. cruciata с учетом воздействия антропогенного фактора. Установлено примерное время существования описанной нами ценопопуляции (от 25 до 40 лет), оценены перспективы ее дальнейшего развития на антропогенно нарушенном местообитании (в старом карьере) и на сохранившемся степном участке.

The characteristic of the habitat of Gentiana cruciata L. (Gentianaceae), rare in the Moscow region, on the right bank of the Osyotr River in the tract of Kovylinskaya Gora near the village of Argunovo (Zaraisk urban district) is given. This species was first noted here in 1951 by R.I. Dyakova. After the discovery of the Argunovsky limestone deposit, A.K. Skvortsov, surveying the steppe area near the village of Argunovo in 1954, did not meet G. cruciata. In 2020, the authors began floristic studies of the tract, including the old quarry. In 2022, 5 test sites were established and described in various biotopes with G. cruciata according to the generally accepted methodology. Comparison of our results with data from the 1950s–1960s and information on the economic use of the Kovylinskaya Gora tract made it possible to identify the stages in the formation of the G. cruciata cenopopulation, taking into account the impact of the anthropogenic factor. The approximate time of existence of the cenopopulation described by us was established (from 25 to 40 years), the prospects for its further development in the anthropogenically disturbed habitat (in the old quarry) and in the preserved steppe area were assessed.
BRYOFLORA OF ANCIENT RESIDENTIAL PARKS OF THE LIPETSK REGION
Authors: Попова Н.Н.
Published: August 2023

В 2014–2021 гг. проведено бриологическое обследование старинных усадебных парков Липецкой обасти. Для каждого объекта даны сведения об исторических владельцах, доле естественных ландшафтов, степени сохранности усадебных комплексов, их исторической и научной ценности; указаны бриологические показатели. Приведен список выявленных видов (114) с указанием местонахождений, частоты встречаемости, антропогенной устойчивости, приуроченности к субстратам, типам ландшафтов. В бриофлоре парков преобладают гемерофобные виды с низкой встречаемостью. Особенностью липецких старинных парков является относитетельно равномерное экологосубстратное распределение. Видовое богатство мохообразных выше в пейзажных частях парков – около 100 видов; в регулярных частях парков выявлено около 65 видов. Наличие в бриофлоре редких и индикаторных видов (13 видов из основного и 18 – из мониторингового списков Красной книги Липецкой области) подтверждают важную роль старинных усадебных парков в сохранении биоразнообразия мохообразных среднерусской лесостепи. Из всех изученных парков 35% объектов имеют статус охраняемых. На основе комплексного анализа выявлено 30 наиболее ценных объектов, ряд из них рекомендован к охране.

In 2014–2021, a briological survey of the ancient manor parks of the Lipetsk region was conducted. For each object, information is given about the historical owners, the proportion of natural landscapes, the degree of preservation of manor complexes, their historical and scientific value; briological indicators are indicated. The list of identified species (114) is given, indicating the locations, frequency of occurrence, anthropogenic stability, proximity to substrates, types of landscapes. Hemerophobic species with low occurrence predominate in the bryoflora of parks. A feature of Lipetsk ancient parks is a relatively uniform ecological and substrate distribution. The species richness of mosses is higher in the landscape parts of parks – about 100 species; about 65 species have been identified in the regular parts of parks. The presence of rare and indicator species in the bryoflora (13 species from the main and 18 from the monitoring lists of the Red Book of the Lipetsk region) confirm the important role of ancient manor parks in preserving the biodiversity of mossy Central Russian forest-steppe. Of all the parks studied, 35% of the objects have the status of protected. Based on a comprehensive analysis, 30 of the most valuable objects have been identified, a number of which are recommended for protection.
A Conceptual Analysis of What it Means to Decolonize the Curriculum
Authors: Omodan Bunmi Isaiah , Mpiti Pretty Thandiswa , Mtsi Nomxolisi
Published: August 2023

The concept of decoloniality has been subject to wide-ranging debates among academics and students alike. These discussions have often looked at the issue from a subjective stance, narrowing its meaning down to interpretation based on individuals’ backgrounds and contexts. Consequently, the understanding of decoloniality as it relates to university curricula has remained fragmented, leading to inconsistencies in how it is put into practice. This study, therefore, seeks to address this gap by unpacking the conceptual ambiguity surrounding what it means to decolonize the curricula in university classrooms. Hence, this study intends to deconstruct the decoloniality of the curriculum as it relates to the pedagogical disposition of the classroom in universities using decolonial theory as the basis of argument. The study answers questions about the assumptions of decoloniality suitable to understand the decoloniality of the curriculum. This conceptual analysis is located within a transformative worldview as a lens and employs conceptual analysis as a tool to make sense of the argument deductively from the decolonial premises. The study argues that decolonizing the curriculum is beyond any personal, contextual, historical, and environmental subjectification, and should instead be viewed as advocacy to challenge existing power dynamics towards incorporating traditionally overlooked or excluded ways of doing. Therefore, it is essential to understand “decolonizing the curriculum” from the process of knowing, empowering the disempowered, self-determination, and an anti-oppressive perspective.
The Impact of Project-Based and Experiential Learning Integration on Pre-Service Teacher Achievement in Evaluation and Assessment
Authors: Poonputta Apantee
Published: August 2023

The present study aimed to explore the effectiveness of integrating project-based learning (PBL) and experiential learning in fostering the evaluation and assessment skills of pre-service teachers. To assess the impact of this integration, a self-efficacy assessment form and evaluation of teacher performance, learning achievement and mentality aspects were employed. The findings of the study indicated that the integration of PBL and experiential learning yielded positive outcomes, enhancing the evaluation and assessment skills of pre-service teachers. This research contributes to the existing body of literature by providing empirical evidence supporting the potential of integrating PBL and experiential learning as an effective approach to augment pre-service teachers’ evaluation and assessment abilities. The study also underscores the significance of creating hands-on and collaborative learning environments within teacher education programmes. These results have significant implications for the design of future teaching strategies aimed at improving the evaluation and assessment skills of pre-service teachers. By incorporating PBL and experiential learning, teacher education programmes can create dynamic learning experiences that engage students in practical, real-world contexts. This approach encourages active participation, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for effective evaluation and assessment practices. The study emphasises the importance of providing pre-service teachers with opportunities to apply their knowledge in authentic settings, fostering a deeper understanding of evaluation and assessment principles. By equipping pre-service teachers with these skills, they will be better prepared to meet the demands of the classroom and contribute to improved student learning outcomes.
Enhancing Reading-Comprehension Abilities and Attitudes of EFL Students through utilising Content-Creation Tools in Classroom Presentations
Authors: Panyasai Pattama
Published: August 2023

Utilisation of content-creating tools in an environment that enhances students' reading comprehension also promotes the integration of language skills and technology for educational purposes. This study aimed to enhance the reading comprehension skills of Business English students in Thailand by incorporating content-creation tools to support their English-language learning. Additionally, it sought to investigate the students' attitudes towards developing their reading comprehension through the utilisation of such tools. This study employed a quantitative research design; and it involved 27 third-year students in a Business- English program. Various instruments, including English reading proficiency and comprehension tests for each unit, as well as content-creation tools, assessment forms for students’ presentations and questionnaires to gauge students’ attitudes were utilised. Quantitative data were analysed by using the mean percentage, and the paired t-test. The results demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in students’ reading-comprehension abilities after using content-creation tools for their presentations, with a significance level of two-tails less than 0.05. This finding highlights the significant effectiveness of developing students’ reading comprehension skills through presentations by using content-creation tools for reading comprehension, which met the pre-determined criterion of 70%. Moreover, the students displayed a high level of positive attitudes towards learning English and utilising content-creation tools to develop their reading comprehension skills through presentations. These results suggest that the integration of language skills and technology through content-creation tools creates a stimulating learning environment, fostering positive outcomes in reading comprehension.
Structural Health Monitoring of Adhesive Bonded Steel Patches for the Reinforcement of Fatigue-Damaged Bridges Using Distributed Fiber Optic Sensors
Authors: Baudone Tommaso , Grefe Hinrich , Arutyunyan Garnik , Baitinger Mascha , Stammen Elisabeth , Dilger Klaus
Published: August 2023

In steel bridges, unforeseen fatigue damages can occur in structural details subjected to cyclic loads, making repair measures necessary. Adhesive bonding can provide a valid alternative to the traditional strengthening methods, resulting in an extension of the service life of the structures with lower costs and less material. In this context, adequate strain monitoring is a crucial tool in evaluating

the behavior of the adhesive bond and safety assessment of the repaired structure. In this study, the authors present the results of laboratory tests where steel plates are reinforced on one side using adhesively bonded patches and subjected to quasi-static load. Optical fiber sensors (FOS) were applied in different positions of the specimen (external surface of the plate, outer surface of the patch, embedded in the adhesive on plate-side and patch-side). The test objective is to confirm the ability

and good performance of the FOS to monitor fatigue damage occurring in the steel plate. The fatigue damage is simulated by reducing the cross section of the steel plates by means of holes of small diameter. The obtained results are analyzed to evaluate the capabilities of the sensors to capture the damage and choose the optimal fiber position among the four described above.
1915 Canakkale Bridge - Cable Structures
Authors: Pihl Jesper , Choi Hyunsok
Published: August 2023

The world record 1915 Çanakkale suspension bridge has a 2023m main span and two suspended side spans each 770m long. Due to poor soil conditions at the shorelines, the two anchor blocks are located onshore by use of tie-down arrangements. The cable structures for the 1915 Canakkale bridge consist of main cables, anchorages, splay and tower saddles, cable clamps, tie-down arrangement and hangers. Each of the two main cables have a length of 4400m, a diameter of 869mm and are designed with a strength of 1960MPa which is state-of-the-art for suspension bridge main cables. The main cable strands are anchored in gravity-based anchor blocks in a compact splay arrangement. The saddles are designed with cast steel troughs and plated steel bodies and optimized to reduce quantities. Hangers are PPWS cables sheathed in HDPE and equipped with spherical bearings to ensure a long service life.

The paper will explain the innovative solutions that were developed for the cable structures of the world longest suspension bridge. The use of advanced global and local analyses models in the design of cable structures will be elaborated. The design philosophy that leads to a highly optimized design that reduces quantities, cost and carbon footprint is explained. Furthermore, the tie-down arrangement, the increased strength properties for both plated steel and cable steel, the dehumidification system and the introduction of spherical bearings at hangers will be explained in the paper.
Stay-cable Bridge Construction Accelerated
Authors: Potucek Jindrich , Pfuntner Jerry
Published: August 2023

The standard cast-in-place segmental balanced-cantilever construction technique for long-span, cable-stayed bridges has been well known and widely used; however, it can lead to extensive construction time and places the construction of the pylon on the critical path of the schedule. The Oakley C. Collins Memorial Bridge over the Ohio River (between Ironton, Ohio and Russell, Kentucky, USA) was built with a new construction technique targeting this issue and accelerating construction by implementing several innovative value engineering ideas proposed by COWI, the Contractor’s Construction Engineer. These include the use of back-span falsework, allowing the side span superstructure to be cast-in-place on falsework during pylon construction; the use of precast stay anchor blocks for rapid installation and better geometry control of the stay anchorages; and guide pipes and unidirectional cantilever casting, reducing the casting cycle duration to as little as one segment per week. This paper presents the construction details that significantly reduced the superstructure casting schedule and design modifications to the superstructure.
Steel Deck Fabrication and Erection of the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge
Authors: Choi Hyunsok , Pihl Jesper , Yamasaki Yasutsugu , Jeong Bonggyo , Lyu Keunwon
Published: August 2023

The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge with a main span of 2,023m is the innovative suspension bridge surpassing the previous world record. The bridge is located at the North-eastern end of the Çanakkale Strait in Türkiye and it connects the Gelibolu district to the Northwest with the Lapseki district to the Southeast. 50,000 tonnes of high strength steel plates for twin box suspended deck were involved in the fabrication. The steel was supplied from South Korea and transported to Türkiye for panel fabrication and deck assembly. 21 single blocks having a length from 9.8m to 24m and 66 mega blocks of 48m had been assembled at the plant. The planning and design of the suspended deck erection sequence and temporary structure posed a lot of technical challenges. The very long span combined with extreme loadings such as strong winds and possibly earthquake had to be overcome within the structural capacity allowed. The temporary deck-to-deck connections were positioned away from the roadway and designed to allow for rotation between the segments. Furthermore, it was necessary to invent a special device, a X-bracing release joint, to minimize the bending moment from wind in the deck. Deck block positioned near towers was planned to be installed as a closure segment. This allows the longitudinal movements of the bridge during block erection and welding by creating a void at the towers. To allow the key segments to be installed in correct geometry, several permanent hangers were destressed near the towers. All single blocks except the centre single block at the middle of main span and the adjacent block in each span next to key-segment were lifted by a floating crane having a max lifting capacity of 5,000ton. For the lifting of mega blocks having a length of 48m and a lifting weight of around 800ton, total eight lifting gantries including strand jack systems were developed and manufactured for this project. Each gantry had a capacity of 450ton, and eight lifting gantries consisted of four tandem systems, which were applied to a mega block lifting works.
A Case Study on the Analysis and Rehabilitation of an Existing Through Arch Truss Bridge
Authors: Betts Dillon , Pérez Armiño Jorge , Ferguson Aaron , Crocker Will
Published: August 2023

The Seal Island Bridge is a steel through-arch truss bridge in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada with a main span of 152 m. At over 60 years in service, the bridge is near the end of its design life and showing structural and operational difficulties such as a previously failed truss diagonal, cracked floorbeams, steel material property complexities, wind-induced vibrations, and restricted access due to narrow deck geometry. A series of bridge inspections were performed which included visual inspections, non-destructive testing, and material testing. The inspections revealed the presence of tack welds and associated cracking, steel corrosion, concrete deterioration, seized bearings, and vibrating bracing elements. Additionally, a structural health monitoring (SHM) program was implemented to determine the current bridge behaviour. To assess the structure, a finite element (FE) model was created and calibrated using the SHM data and the inspection findings. The FE modelling is the focus of this paper. During preliminary analysis, it was determined that the structure was sensitive to wind loading. Therefore, a detailed wind buffeting analysis was performed to refine the wind loading used in the analysis. Based on the results of the analysis and investigations, a rehabilitation plan is currently being developed to ensure that the bridge can remain in service for an additional 15 years. Additionally, a benefit-cost analysis is being performed to assess potential rehabilitation and replacement options for the Owner, the Province of Nova Scotia.
Momchilgrad-Sedlare Pedestrian Suspension Bridge
Authors: Ivanov Stoyan , Georgiev Lazar
Published: August 2023

This article reviews the new superstructure and cable system for the pedestrian suspension bridge over Varbitza river, situated in Rodopi mountain of Bulgaria. The bridge connects the town of Momchilgrad with the village of Sedlare, bridging the river in a single span. The distance between the two concrete pylons is 169m. The span of the main steel truss girders is 155m with a clear distance between them of 2,50m. The design was made in 2005 and the bridge was constructed in 2007. In 2021 (nearly fifteen years after its completion) side inspection of its service condition was made by the authors. The results of the findings are discussed in this article as well.
Footbridges Over Varbitza River
Authors: Ivanov Stoyan , Georgiev Lazar
Published: August 2023

This article reviews the service condition of three pedestrian suspension bridges. They are located in the Rodopi mountains, outside urbanized area. These bridges are crossing Varbitza river at different locations along its length and are mainly used by the locals in order to access the railway line (stations) running along the river. All bridges are suspension bridges with main span varying from 120m to 260m. Originally, they were built more than 50-60 years ago. Reconstruction of their superstructures took place 10 to 15 years ago. Visual inspection, made in the summer of 2021, reviews their service condition, which is further discussed in this article.
Industrialized construction technology of three-tower light composite beam cable-stayed bridge
Authors: Zhang Hong , Li Gang , Zheng Hehui
Published: August 2023

The Fifth Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is a three-tower cable-stayed bridge with a main span of 600 m. The Steel Shell-Concrete Composite Pylon and steel-UHPC panel light composite girder are adopted.Aiming at the high-quality construction requirements of super-large projects, the research and practice of industrial construction technology including new structures, new processes, new materials and new equipment are carried out. The main innovations are as follows : (1) Based on the design-construction coordination concept of factory processing and modular installation, a new structure of steel shell-concrete composite bridge tower is developed, which has the advantages of good mechanical performance, fast construction and reliable quality. (2) The manufacturing process of making steel shell and main steel bar at the same time in the factory is developed. Only the steel shell is installed and the concrete is poured on site, which greatly improves the construction efficiency and quality of the site. (3) The lightweight self-climbing platform and precision adjustable spreader were developed, which improved the steel shell hoisting, platform climbing efficiency and appearance quality of bridge tower. (4) The lightweight composite beam structure of steel box-UHPC prefabricated panel and the wet joint connection structure of UHPC are developed, which have the advantages of light weight and fast assembly. (5) An automatic UHPC panel production line integrating multiple sets of equipment was developed, which realized the transformation of prefabricated component production from labor-intensive construction to technology-integrated manufacturing.
Key Technology and Practice of Manufacturing Special-shaped Steel Box Girder under European Standards
Authors: Zhu Cong , Wei Fulong
Published: August 2023

To enter the international steel bridge market is the strategic objective of many steel structure manufacturers. As one of the most influential regions in the international steel bridge market, Europe has attracted much attention. Relying on the experience of constructing the Croatian Peljesac Bridge, and on the basis of summing up the similarities and differences of important indicators between the mainstream execution standards of China and Europe, this paper expounds the key technology and engineering practice of the manufacturing of special-shaped steel box girders under EN1090-EXC4, and provides reference and guidance for subsequent similar projects.
Development and Validation of a Noise in Decision Inventory for Organizational Settings
Authors: Bollarino Sara , Ceschi Andrea , Monti Michele , Sartori Riccardo
Published: August 2023

Aim/Purpose: The aim of the present paper is to present a Noise Decision (ND) scale. First, it reports the development and validation of the instrument aimed at examining organizational factors that have an influence on decision-making and the level of noise. Second, it validates this rating scale by testing its discriminant and convergent validity with other measures to assess decision-making qualities.

Background: According to the literature, the concept of noise is the unwanted variability present in judgments. The notion of noise concerns the systematic influence to which individuals are exposed in their environment. The literature in the field has found that noise reduction improves the perception of work performance.

Methodology: The first study involves the development of a scale (composed of 36 items) consisting of semi-structured interviews, item development, and principal component analysis. The second study involves validation and convergent validity of this scale. In the first study, there were 43 employees from three medium-sized Italian multinationals. For the second study, a sample of 867 subjects was analysed.

Contribution: This paper introduces the first scale aimed at assessing noise within individuals and, in the organizational context, within employees and employers.

Findings: Results show that the estimated internal reliability for each of the ND subscales and also the correlations between the subscales were relatively low, suggesting that ND correctly measures the analyzed components. Furthermore, the validation of the psychometric qualities of the ND allowed for the assertion that the influence of noise is present in the decision-making process within the context of work environments, validating the initial hypotheses.

Recommendation for Researchers: This paper aims to improve theory and research on decision-making; for example, by providing a possible implementation for scales for evaluating decision-making skills. Furthermore, detecting and limiting noise with a systematic method could improve both the quality of decisions and the quality of thought processes.

Future Research: Given the measurement of ND, the study can be a starting point for future research on this topic. Since there is no literature about this construct, it would be necessary to spend more time researching, so that the topic becomes clearer. System noise has been tested by some researchers with a “noise audit,” which means giving the same problem to different people and measuring the differences in their responses. Repeating this kind of audit in conjunction with the ND in a specific work environment could be helpful to detect but also measure the influence of noise.
The Genotoxic Damage in Cyprinus carpio Exposed to Abamectin
Authors: TURAN Funda , ERGENLER Ayşegül
Published: August 2023

The pesticide abamectin, which is often used in agriculture, poses a threat to aquatic animals. Though its toxicity to fish has not yet been fully understood. In this study, we used the comet assay to examine the effects of being subjected to various dosages of abamectin on the genotoxic impact of abamectin in Cyprinus carpio. During 10 days, common carp were exposed to three different doses of abamectin (0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 mg L-1) based on previously discovered levels in aquatic environments. Toward the completion of the investigation, the Comet assay was used to assess the damage frequency (%), Arbitrary unit (%), and Genetic damage index (%) in carp gill and liver cells. The greatest damage frequencies of % 74.333±0.577 and % 70.333±2.082 were significantly found in the 0.9 mg L-1 group in the gill and liver cells, respectively (P