bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of current guidelines for prescribing spectacles to children using a modified Delphi approach and the AGREE II tool
Authors: Wilson Salma , Suttle Catherine , Shah Rakhee , Conway Miriam , Ctori Irene
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to identify clinical guidelines that provide recommendations on prescribing refractive error correction in children, evaluate the overall quality of these guidelines using the Appraisal of Guidelines for REsearch and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool and subsequently gain consensus on the prescribing recommendations from high‐quality guidelines using the modified Delphi technique.

Methods

A comprehensive search for prescribing guidelines was conducted using databases and professional websites. The quality appraisal of eligible guidelines was undertaken by scoring the six AGREE II domains. Subsequently, the modified Delphi technique was used by 10 experts (sub‐specialist optometrists, ophthalmologists and orthoptists) to gain consensus on the prescribing recommendation statements extracted from guidelines that had been identified as high quality. Three rounds were conducted in which agreement of these statements were scored using a 9‐point Likert scale with a free‐text option for any additional comments.

Results

Five eligible guidelines were identified. The AGREE II tool demonstrated that the guidelines varied substantially in quality, with only one guideline identified as being of high quality. A total of 168 prescribing statements were reviewed in the Delphi procedure. Of these, 95 statements reached expert consensus as being appropriate prescribing recommendations.

Conclusion

There is significant scope for improving current guidelines for prescribing refractive error correction in children. We used the modified Delphi technique to find points of agreement on prescribing recommendations to support professionals prescribing refractive error correction in children. We recommend that further work is needed to address gaps in the guidelines.
Do concentrations of non‐esterified fatty acids change during gestation and lactation in healthy bitches?
Authors: Doll Sophie‐Charlotte K. , Haimerl Peggy , Bartel Alexander , Arlt Sebastian P.
Published: July 2024

During the gestation and lactation period, the energy demand in pregnant and lactating bitches is elevated. Non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) are utilized either directly from the fed diet or from body fat storage. High NEFA concentration in the blood plasma leads to an increased risk for diseases. Therefore, measuring blood NEFA concentrations may be an indicator for a period of scarcity. The aim of this study is to explore if serum NEFA concentrations in healthy bitches change during gestation and lactation. Healthy pregnant and lactating bitches were sampled on three appointed dates around parturition. NEFA values were examined with a multiparameter clinical chemistry analyser. All statistical analyses were performed using R. Overall, 38 bitches were enrolled in the study. Twenty‐one bitches were sampled on all three appointed dates. The median NEFA concentration antepartum was 0.73 mmol/L (IQR: 0.59, 1.01); during peak lactation, it was 0.57 mmol/L (IQR: 0.44, 0.82); and around weaning, it was 0.58 mmol/L (IQR: 0.46, 0.73). NEFA concentrations rose slightly with litter size in late gestation. Body condition score had no influence on observed NEFA values. We conclude that NEFA concentrations widely remain within reference ranges in well‐fed pregnant and lactating bitches. Nevertheless, they may be a valuable parameter to assess the actual metabolic status of malnourished pregnant and lactating bitches.
Early graft‐infiltrating lymphocytes are not associated with graft rejection in a mouse model of skin transplantation
Authors: Kanazawa Ryo , Goto Ryoichi , Harada Takuya , Ota Takuji , Kobayashi Nozomi , Shibuya Kazuaki , Ganchiku Yoshikazu , Watanabe Masaaki , Zaitsu Masaaki , Kawamura Norio , Shimamura Tsuyoshi , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: July 2024

Graft‐infiltrating lymphocytes (GILs) play an important role in promoting rejection after organ transplantation. We recently reported that GILs that accumulated up to 3 days post‐transplantation did not promote rejection, whereas GILs present 3–5 days post‐transplantation promoted rejection in a mouse heart transplantation model. However, the immunological behaviour of GILs in murine skin transplantation remains unclear. GILs were isolated on days 3, 5 or 7 post‐transplantation from C57BL/6 (B6) allogeneic skin grafts transplanted onto BALB/c mice. BALB/c Rag2−/− γc−/− mice (BRGs) underwent B6 skin graft transplantation 10 weeks after adoptive transfer of day 3, 5, or 7 GILs. BRGs reconstituted with day 5 or 7 GILs completely rejected B6 grafts. However, when B6 grafts harvested from recipient BALB/c mice on day 5 or 7 were re‐transplanted into BRGs, half of the re‐transplanted day 5 grafts established long‐term survival, although all re‐transplanted day 7 grafts were rejected. BRGs reconstituted with day 3 GILs did not reject B6 grafts. Consistently, re‐transplantation using day 3 skin grafts resulted in no rejection. Administration of anti‐CD25 antibodies did not prevent the phenomenon observed for the day 3 skin grafts. Furthermore, BRGs reconstituted with splenocytes from naïve BALB/c mice immediately rejected the naïve B6 skin grafts and the re‐transplanted day 3 B6 grafts, suggesting that day 3 GILs were unable to induce allograft rejection during the rejection process. In conclusion, the immunological role of GILs depends on the time since transplantation. Day 3 GILs had neither protective nor alloreactive effects in the skin transplant model.
Comparison of proteomic profiles and biological properties for corneal wound healing of canine amniotic membrane and its extracts
Authors: Permkam Chompunut , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Phaonakrop Narumon , Suriyaphol Gunnaporn , Tuntivanich Nalinee
Published: July 2024

Objective

The application of canine amniotic membrane (cAM) for corneal reconstruction is widely used in the veterinary field. However, the information on biological properties and alternative forms of cAM for corneal wound healing is limited. This study aimed to investigate the proteomic profiles and corneal wound healing properties of cAM, cAM extract (cAME), and lyophilized cAM extract (cAMX).

Animal Studied

A total number of 14 cAMs were sterilely harvested from healthy full‐term puppies and randomly divided into three different forms: cAM (n = 14), cAME (n = 14), and cAMX (n = 14).

Procedures

Each form of cAMs was subjected to proteomic analysis using label‐free liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS), followed by bioinformatic analysis. The proteins were classified into properties by comparing them with the literature search on human amniotic membrane (hAM) properties and the effect on corneal wound healing when given topically.

Results

The analyses identified 8136 proteins in cAM, 8211 proteins in cAME, and 7093 proteins in cAMX. A total number of 100 proteins were matched with proteins in hAM properties and were classified into anti‐inflammatory, anti‐fibrotic, anti‐microbial, anti‐angiogenic, promotion of epithelialization, analgesic, and support cell adhesion and growth properties. Furthermore, proteins with corneal wound healing effects were identified in cAME and cAMX.

Conclusions

cAM and its extracts contain numerous proteins, including proteins related to corneal wound healing properties. Additionally, cAME and cAMX showed proteins involved in corneal wound healing and their potential benefits for topical use in ophthalmology.
Kesan Kebakaran ke atas Kekuatan Mampatan Konkrit
Authors: Ismail Mohammad , Wai San Siaw
Published: July 2024

Kajian kesan suhu ke atas kekuatan dan ketahanlasakan konkrit adalah pentingmemandangkan kejadian kebakaran semakin menjadi-jadi di negara ini. Tujuanutama kajian adalah untuk melihat kesan suhu pemanasan dan masa pemanasan keatas kekuatan mampatan konkrit. Ujian yang telah dijalankan ialah Ujian KekuatanMampatan ke atas kuib konkrit bersaiz IOOxlOOx100 mm yang didedahkan kepadasuhu 400Â°C, 600Â°C dan 1000Â°C, pada masa 1.0 jam, 1.5 jam dan 2.0 jam di dalamketuhar. Selepas dipanaskan, kiub konkrit ini dibiarkan sejuk pad a suhu bilik.Pemerhalian telah dibuat ke atas kiub konkrit yang telah dikenakan suhu tinggi darisegi perubahan jisim, perubahan warna, keretakan yang berlaku dan perubahankekuatan mampatannya. Didapati pengurangan jisim kuib konkrit yang semakinketara hanya berlaku dengan penambahan suhu pemanasan tetapi lidak denganpenambahan masa pemanasan. Di samping itu, warn a kuib konkrit menjadisemakin putih dan keretakan serna kin serius dengan penambahan suhu dan masapemanasan. Melalui kajian, didapati penurunan kekuatan mampatan konkritselepas dipanaskan lebih dipengaruhi oleh suhu pemanasan dibandingkan denganmasa pemanasan. Pada suhu pemanasan yang sarna, kekuatan mampatan hanyaakan turun dengan mendadak pada jam pertama semasa pemanasan. Ujian TukulMenganJal dan Ujian Denyutan Ultrasonik telah dilakukan untuk menganggarkankekuatan mampatan konkrit selepas didedahkan pada suhu yang tinggi. Cartapenentukuran yang dihasilkan boleh digunakan untuk menganggarkan kekuatanmampatan konkrit gred 30 selepas terbakar.
Kesan Pengawetan Stirn Terhadap Kekuatan Konkrit
Authors: Mohamad Diah Abu Bakar , Hamir Rosli , Kamarulzaman Kamarul Badlishah , Mohd Ridzuan Ahmad Ruslan
Published: July 2024

Peningkatan kualiti konkrit bukan sahaja pada masa segar tetapi juga sepanjangumur konkrit terse but. Bagi mencapai matlamat terse but konkrit mestilahmenjalani proses pengawetan yang terbaik dan sempurna. Kajian ke atas kaedahpengawetan yang terbaik perlu dihikukan sebelum konkrit yang dibentuk diawet.Seharusnya kita tidak boleh berpuas hati dengan kaedah pengawetan konvesionaliaitu rnenggunakan air dalam rnendapatkan kualiti konkrit yang terbaik. Analisadan keputusan yang didapati menunjukkan bahawa kaedah pengawetanmenggunakan stirn memberikan kekuatan yang tinggi berbanding dengan kaedahpengawetan air dan udara.
TECHNIQUES TO DEVELOP FORECASTING MODEL ON LOW COST HOUSING IN URBAN AREA
Authors: Zainun Noor Yasmin , Abd. Majid Muhd. Zaimi
Published: July 2024

The number of people who will live in urban areas is expected to double to morethan five billion between 1990 to 2025. Therefore, accurate predictions of the levelof aggregate demand for housing are very important. Various forecastingtechniques have been developed using probabilistic, statistics, simulation orartificial intelligent. Hence, there is a need to identify different techniques, in termsof accuracy, in the prediction of needs for facilities. This paper discusses theArtificial Neural Networks (ANN) technique and compaes it with other techniquesin forecasting needs of housing in urban area. Investigation on previous researchand literature materials will be derived and compared in terms of errors in theaccuracy of the technique. The findings of this study indicates that the ANN modelperforms best overall.
SHIELD TUNNELLING 3D NUMERICAL SIMULATION ON THREE CASE STUDIES
Authors: Demagh Rafik , Emeriault Fabrice , Hammoud Farid
Published: July 2024

In congested urban areas, shallow tunnel constructions are sometimes necessary due to lack of space. Therefore, a careful assessment of their effects on existing constructions is vitally required. In the application of shield tunnel boring machines (TBM), different operations conducted may induce a three-dimensional problem of soil/structure interaction. They are complicated to be represented in a complete numerical simulation that allows evaluation of induced ground movements, in particular surface settlement assessment. A three-dimensional simulation procedure, using finite differences code Flac-3D, taking into account an explicit manner of the main origins of movements in soil mass, is hereby presented in this paper. It is applied to three different tunnel construction sites, with different types of face support and soils (i.e. nature and mechanical characteristics). Results have been compared to those obtained from in-situ measurements during construction. It shows that the proposed 3D simulation procedure is highly relevant, particularly in the adopted representation for different operations performed by tunnel boring machine (excavation, confining pressure, advancement, installation of lining, grouting of annular void, etc.).
WATER BALANCE APPROACH FOR ASSESSMENT OF DIFFERENT WATER SUPPLY CONDITIONS IN DAHUK DAM
Authors: Solaiman Maher Hussain , Heryansyah Arien
Published: July 2024

The authority of Dahuk city decided to give the priority of the Dahuk Dam uses to tourism purpose since it was noticed that Dahuk Dam was not fulfilling the water requirement of its service area. Therefore, water balance calculation at the dam, its catchment and surrounding catchment area were necessary to evaluate and identify the problems. However, water balance needs long and sufficient hydrologic data. Since many data was not available at those regions, generating hydrologic data over a long period and filling the missing data were necessary. Then 24 scenarios with different water supply conditions were simulated. It was found that the dam was unable to support water demand for irrigation together with domestic and tourism due to water level requirement. Then, by supplying water from Khabour River and cancelling the irrigation project, the water level of the reservoir was enhanced, as shown on Scenario-10. In addition, it was identified that Khabour water contribution should be priority of the program to survive the reservoirâ€™s goals in case of integrated water resource management at the Dam.
TOWARDS IMPLEMENTATION AND ACHIEVEMENT OF CONSTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY IN THE MALAYSIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Authors: Yeong Liang Sim , Josep Putuhena Frederik , Puong Ling Law , Baharun Azhaili
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this paper is to identify mechanisms and approaches involved in the local construction individuals and companies to enhance environmental concerns and the adoption of interdisciplinary method of managing the environment and up keeping of the quality in Malaysian Construction Industry. This paper describes an innovative approach to understanding the role of internal and external influence through LEGO concept. This approach builds on theories of environmental issues, in which learning about new ideas, practices or technologies occurs through integration of efforts particularly from the government. The approach also analyses the challenges faced by construction stakeholders. It draws on findings from different studies including some other countries of sustainability in which the engagement of previous research has been incorporated to speed up the environmental sustainability in Malaysia. Environmental sustainable development construction requires a holistic thinking and decision making and more innovative solutions that enhance sustainability and result in mutually benefited outcomes for all stakeholders. A dedicated effort especially government and government link company is in strong demand. This integrated achievement boosts the awareness and action among stakeholders. The role of government and leaders has been cited as an important component towards of environmental sustainability. Development of the approach will contribute to the understanding of environmental sustainability through identifying gaps in the understanding and pursuit of sustainability in the Malaysian construction industry. This paper suggests the future prospect that integrates several dimensions towards sustainability practice in Malaysia.
ULTRAVIOLET TREATMENT: A NEW POTENTIAL TECHNOLOGY TO MITIGATE MICROBIOLOGICALLY INFLUENCED CORROSION
Authors: Abu Bakar Akrima , Yahaya Nordin , N.M. Noor N.M. Noor
Published: July 2024

Abstract
ULTIMATE SHEAR CAPACITY AND FAILURE OF SHEAR KEY CONNECTION IN PRECAST CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION
Authors: Ibrahim Izni Syahrizal , Padil Khairul Hazman , Ali Bady Hamid Mansoor , Saim Abdul Aziz , Sarbini Noor Nabilah
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the experimental results on the strength of shear key connection in precast concrete construction. The use of shear key is to connect two separate precast components to increase the shear resistivity of the joint surfaces. The proposed shear key shape in this study comprises of triangular, composite rectangular, semi-circle and trapezoidal. In addition, the trapezoidal shape is made up with 3 different keyâ€™s angles. All specimens are tested using the â€œpush-offâ€ method to obtain the ultimate shear capacity of which is due to the failure of the connection. From the analysis, stiffness, elastic and plastic behaviour, and the mode of failure is discussed to determine the most effective shape of the proposed shear key. From the findings, semi-circle shear key produced the highest shear capacity at 62.9 kN compared to that of the other shapes. Meanwhile, the trapezoidal shape at an angle of 45ï‚° produced the highest shear capacity at 44.1 kN. Together in the aspect of stiffness, the 45ï‚° trapezoidal shapes produced the highest resistance towards slip at 166.7 kN/mm. Failure mode are mostly due to shear, sliding and diagonal tension crack. Large slip of 7.35 mm is recorded from the triangular shape. The large slip is maybe due to sliding since the angle of the key faces to the shear plane is 45Â° which indicates to less interlocking compared with the other shapes they form an angle of 90Â° with the shear plane.
INFILL MATERIALS OF EPOXY GROUT FOR PIPELINE REHABILITATION AND REPAIR
Authors: S.N.A. Azraai S.N.A. Azraai , K.S. Lim K.S. Lim , N. Yahaya N. Yahaya , & N.M. Noor & N.M. Noor
Published: July 2024

The oil and gas industry uses carbon steel pipelines as the basic element in transporting crude oil and gas. These pipelines are subjected to deterioration due to several factors, including third party damage, material and construction defects, natural forces and corrosion. Deterioration of underground pipelines due to corrosion can lead to serious pipeline failures such as leakage and explosion. Hence, methods to repair such damage have been developed in order to extend the durability of pipelines. This paper reports on the current development of infill materials of epoxy grouts used for pipeline external repair. Assessment of the defects should be completed by pipeline operators to identify list of parameters including pipeline operating characteristic, geometries and materials of pipeline, and configuration and location of pipeline to make the best option of repair techniques. Therefore, selection of an appropriate rehabilitation system is crucial in preventing the future failure of pipeline structure. A simple guideline is required to optimize the information in the selection of suitable materials for pipeline repair works. The selection of suitable materials will help in preventing the future failure of pipeline structures due to inappropriate selection of infill materials.
FREE-FLOW SPEED ON TWO-LANE RURAL HIGHWAYS: AN EMPIRICAL EVALUATION OF ESTIMATION MODELS
Authors: Abdurrahman Usman Tasiu , Che Puan Othman , Ibrahim Muttaka Naâ€™iya
Published: July 2024

Free-flow speed (FFS); a fundamental parameter in the analysis of two-lane highways, is either estimated through direct field measurement or using analytical model. Regarding the latter approach, the Malaysian Highway Capacity Manual (MHCM) established a model for estimating FFS based on base-free-flow speed (BFFS), roadwayâ€™s geometric features and proportion of motorcycles in the traffic stream. Likewise, the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) suggested an approach for direct field measurement of FFS; preferably, at a combined two-way flow rate not in excess of 200 veh/h. For most two-lane highways, observing a two-way flow rate of 200 veh/h or less is rarely possible. In such a case, the HCM recommended that mean speed could be observed at flow rates higher than the limiting value and adjusted accordingly based on an analytical model provided by the manual. This paper presents an empirical appraisal of the MHCM and HCM â€“ FFS estimation models. Data for the study were collected from four directional segments of rural two-lane highways in Johor, Malaysia. A video recording intrumented test vehicle was used for observing the relevant variables needed in this study. An analysis of the obaseved data resulted in mean FFS values of 83.35 km/h and 83.03 km/h from HCM and MHCM models, respectively. FFS estimates from the two data sets were compared to ascertain the degree of their consistency or otherwise using statistical analysis. Results from statistical analysis using t-statistic at 0.05 significance level indicates that there is no statistically significant difference between the FFS estimates from the two approaches. Thus, finding from this study suggests that either of the two approaches could be used for measuring FFS; particularly, at combined two-way flow rates exceeding 200 veh/h.
PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF DIFFERENT BIAS CORRECTION METHODS IN STATISTICAL DOWNSCALING OF PRECIPITATION
Authors: Ahmed Kamal , Shahid Shamsuddin , Harun Sobri , Nawaz Nadeem
Published: July 2024

Global circulation models (GCMs) are widely used for the modeling and assessing the impacts of climate change. These models do not always accurately simulate climate variables due to the risk of considerable biases. Several bias correction methods have been proposed and applied so far. The selection and application of appropriate bias correction can improve accuracy and reduce uncertainty in downscaled precipitation in arid regions. In this study, initially multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network was applied to downscale the mean monthly precipitation. The MLP model was calibrated by using National Center for environmental prediction (NCEP) reanalysis dataset and monthly precipitation observations located in selected hyper-arid, arid and semi-arid regions. Later, the performance of four bias correction methods namely, power transformation, simple multiplicative, variance inflation and quantile mapping were evaluated by comparing the mean and standard deviation of observed and downscaled precipitation. It has been found that the power transformation method is the most reliable and suitable method for downscaling precipitation in the arid region.
INVESTIGATION OF MACH CONE DEVELOPMENT IN BALLASTLESS RAILWAY TRACK STRUCTURES OVER SOFT CLAYS
Authors: Aly Mohamed Ismail , El-Shabrawy Mohamed , El Gendy Mohamed , Turk Ahmed Adel
Published: July 2024

High speed trains (HST) have many challenges from a geodynamic perspective; such as the case of HST operating in areas with soft soils like soft clays in Delta areas. The speeding trains can easily reach critical velocity due to the resonance of Rayleigh surface waves developed by the train and the low shear wave velocity of the soft soil. When this resonance happens it can develop a phenomenon called â€œMach conesâ€ which is similar to the ones the air jets produce at the speed of sound. This phenomenon can be observed in theoretical analytical measurements as well as in practical measurements. This paper studies the occurrence of mach cones in the soft clay soil under ballastless track structure systems and compares this phenomenon with the traditional ballasted track. Results of the displacement contours in the clay layer of the ballasted track show concentric pattern with train velocity of 250 km/h which indicated mach cone development around this velocity. Other ballastless track types modeled show that the displacement contours are distributed with no concentric pattern and indicating no mach cones even with velocities reaching 250 km/h.
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE CONTAINS WASTE TIRES EXPOSED TO HIGH TEMPERATURE
Authors: Mohamad Zukri Siti Nurul Nureda , Ab. Kadir Mariyana Aida , Mohd. Sam Abdul Rahman , A. Rasid Nur Nadhira , Khiyon M. Iqbal , Ariffin Nur Farhayu
Published: July 2024

Concrete contains crumb rubber and steel fiber from waste tires has recently gained interest among researchers as an alternative material to be used in the construction field. Mechanical properties of the concrete containing crumb rubber replacement and steel fiber at high temperature was investigated experimentally. The waste crumb rubber was chemically treated by using sodium hydroxide (NaOH). Water cement ratio of Treated Rubberized Steel Fiber Concrete (TRSF-Con) was modified to get similar strength as Normal Concrete (NC). A microstructure analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) test was conducted to investigate the bonding of crumb rubber in the concrete mix at ambient and high temperature. The TRSF-Con has performed satisfactory on reducing the growth and crack width compared with normal concrete when exposed to high temperature. The concrete containing crumb rubber and steel fiber have high potential to be utilized as insulating or reinforcement materials for non-structural composite member, which ensure the elements of the structure will not collapse for a prescribe period of time.
EVALUATION OF SUBGRADE CAPACITY OF JIMMA SOILS USING DCP TEST: A CORRELATION OF CBR AND DCPI
Authors: Muhammed Jemal J. , M. Abdella Murad
Published: July 2024

Subgrade strength of soils is usually evaluated using California Bearing Ratio (CBR) values. As the cost and time required to conduct CBR test are high, dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) would be recommended and CBR value can be estimated later from DCP result using a correlation formula. In this paper, laboratory CBR of Jimma fine-grained soils has been correlated with field DCP values referring to the physical properties such as natural moisture content and field density; as these factors significantly influence the behaviour of subgrade soils. Different techniques were used to demonstrate relations that best suit to find values of CBR from DCP test. Equations were developed between CBR and dynamic cone penetrometer index (DCPI) for the total of 36 sample points and adjusted coefficient of determination becomes 0.84. A validation was also done to test the applicability of the developed correlation formula for the local soils with the given physical conditions. The correlation gave a promising relationship between CBR and DCP and can be applicable for preliminary design purpose with the due consideration of the locality circumstances.
WATER ABSORPTION AND DRYING SHRINKAGE OF RECYCLED FOAMED AGGREGATE CONCRETE
Authors: Teck Jung Chai , Kwong Tang Hing , Boon Koh Heng
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This paper presents some experimental results and discusses the used of recycled foamed aggregates as natural coarse aggregates replacement in producing concrete. The physical properties of recycled foamed aggregates concrete were investigated. The properties studied are water absorption and drying shrinkage from the concrete early ages until the periods of 56 days. The 100 mm x 100 mm cube specimen was used to study the water absorption at the age of 7, 28 and 56 days. Meanwhile, the 100 mm x 100 mm x 300 mm length prism had been casted and used for drying shrinkage test for recycled foamed aggregates concrete. The foamed aggregates was produced from crushing recycled foamed concrete blocks. It were coated with cement paste to reduce its water absorption ability during casting process. Superplasticizer was used to maintain the workability of fresh concrete with a slump vary between 50 mm to 100 mm. The physical tests were conducted on recycled foamed aggregates to determine their initial properties such as loose bulk density, sieve analysis and water absorption rate. Recycled foamed aggregate concretes were produced with varied water cement ratio. The results obtained indicated that the linear elastic relationship between water cement ratio and water absorption rate. The higher the water cement ratio of concrete specimen will obtained higher water absorption rate. Vice versa, the density is low for drying shrinkage. The water absorption decreased while drying shrinkage becomes more stabilized over curing period.
THE STUDY OF SITUATIONAL LEADERSHIP STYLE ON AN INDONESIAN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
Authors: Setiawan Theresita Herni , Firdaus Adrian , Putra Andre Dwi
Published: July 2024

Situational leadership is defined as a style of leadership in which a leader manages to adapt his/her style in order to suit the situation. This situation refers to the circumstances among the leaderâ€™s employee which could enhance the success of the related project/work. The study is aimed to determine the suitability between the type of the employee and the situational leadership style of the project manager on a construction company. The circumstances of the employee are represented by their commitment and competence maturity level. The suitability result could give an insight to the project manager to enhance the success of their project. This study utilises a descriptive statistical analysis through a questionnaire survey and interview to a construction company in Indonesia. This company is selected because it is one of the biggest construction company in Indonesia. This research observed four high rise building projects which are constructed by this company in 2017 in Bandung, Indonesia. The result summary of the four projects shows a suitability between the type of employee (D3) and the projectâ€™s manager situational leadership style (S3).Â  In accordance with the situational leadership theory, this suitability could produce a great situation between project manager and his/her employee, enhancing the accomplishment of the project. The company should keep this suitability, if such a shifting happens among the team, a re-identification is recommended. This could help project manager to understand his/her new employee, so he/she could adapt to the new situation and transform his/her leadership style to fit the new type of employee. This could enhance the overall performance of the company.Â
Introduction
Authors: van Tour Peter , Baragwanath Nicholas
Published: July 2024

The study of European music in the long eighteenth century has advanced rapidly since the publication in 2007 of Robert O. Gjerdingen's Music in the Galant Style, which not only consolidated the theory of stock patterns (or schemas) used in composition and im provisation during
this period, but also highlighted the importance of contemporary solfeggio and partimento as ways of learning these patterns. In 2012, Giorgio Sanguinetti published The Art of Partimento, encouraging the revival of such techniques and enabling scholars and musicians to incorporate historical
practice into curricula. Three years lat er, Peter van Tour's Counterpoint and Partimento provided the first in-depth study of the third phase of the traditional Italian apprenticeship by interpreting the surviving manu script counterpoint notebooks from the Neapolitan conservatories
of the era. By 2018, Job Ijzerman was able to synthesize much of this knowledge into a new method of teaching music theory "inspired by old masters" in his Harmony, Counterpoint, Partimento. The year 2020 saw the publication of Gjerdingen's Child Composers in the Old Conservatories,
which described in detail how orphans became elite musicians, and Nicholas Baragwanath's The Solfeggio Tradition, which shined further light on the first stage of training. Many other scholars have also made significant contributions to the field.
Note-Naming, Galant Schemata, and the "Thread" of Vivaldi's Concerto for Four Violins, Op.3 No.10 (RV 580)
Authors: Baragwanath Nicholas
Published: July 2024

Part I of this article surveys the language code applied to the theory of galant schemata, building upon Gjerdingen's 2007 study of "stock musical patterns" in the eighteenth century. These schemata are determined primarily by "contrapuntal skeletons" between descant and bass and are
defined by scale degree numbers drawn from seven-note scales. However, to describe galant melodies in these terms is anachronistic, and it may give rise to connections and hierarchies that would not have occurred to an eighteenth-century mind. In Italian-style music, melody was governed by
the hexachordal solfeggio learned in the first years of musical apprenticeship; it was never described with scale degrees. The article asks what happens if we apply the old hexachords to the stock patterns of galant music, including commonplace voice-leading patterns normally excluded from
the in ventory of schemata. Might they offer alternative, more historically grounded readings? The article's second part addresses these questions through a case study on the first move ment of Vivaldi's Concerto for Four Violins (RV 580), exploring the claim that hexachordal syllables, as
known and understood by the original performers of the work, can grant further insights into the musical discourse. Part III concludes by presenting an analysis of the overall "thread" of the movement, taken to mean the syllabic patterns that underlie its melody.
O Combate às Desigualdades Sociais para o Alcance de uma Cidade Sustentável
Authors: Melgarejo Moreno Joaquim , Schmitt Siqueira Garcia Denise
Published: July 2024

A problemática deste trabalho surgiu ante a verificação da necessidade de se entender qual a importância que deve ser dada ao combate das desigualdades sociais para que se possa alcançar uma cidade sustentável. A pesquisa está inserida na linha de pesquisa do Programa de Pós-graduação Stricto Sensu em Ciência Jurídica (PPCJ – Univali)  “Direito Ambiental, Transnacionalidade e Sustentabilidade” e no projeto de pesquisa “Aportes tecnológicos das smart cities à consolidação de cidades sustentáveis”. As temáticas ligadas a sustentabilidade são vitais para que possamos dar continuidade a vida no planeta e nessa seara reside a importância do tema que trata de cidades sustentáveis. Essa sustentabilidade que deve ser alicerçada dentro das dimensões social, ambiental e econômica. Nesse diapasão elencou-se como objetivo geral analisar a partir da doutrina o conceito de desigualdade social, qual a relação desta com a pobreza e qual o seu impacto para o alcance de uma cidade sustentável. Extraindo-se, ao final, a consideração da necessidade de combate às desigualdades sociais para o alcance de uma cidade que seja efetivamente sustentável, eis que a sustentabilidade visa o alcance dos direitos sociais dos cidadãos. Quanto à metodologia foi utilizado o método indutivo e acionadas as técnicas do referente, da categoria, dos conceitos operacionais, da pesquisa bibliográfica e do fichamento.
Discriminação Algorítmica no Brasil: Uma Análise da Pesquisa Jurídica e suas Perspectivas para a Compreensão do Fenômeno
Authors: Garcia Sainz Nilton , Gabardo Emerson , Ongaratto Natália
Published: July 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar a abordagem da pesquisa acadêmica sobre a discriminação algorítmica no campo do Direito no Brasil, fornecendo uma descrição do estágio atual dessa discussão. Com base em uma revisão de escopo da literatura jurídica, foram identificadas as áreas de Direitos Humanos e Direito Administrativo como aquelas que possuem as principais concentrações de estudos sobre o tema. Por outro lado, subáreas do Direito, como Direito Civil, Direito do Trabalho e Direito Processual Penal, estão em desenvolvimento. A pesquisa foi realizada por meio de uma busca sistemática em periódicos indexados na Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO e Google Scholar, além de publicações no Congresso Internacional de Direito e Inteligência Artificial. A hipótese inicial de que a pesquisa sobre a discriminação algorítmica no Direito no Brasil estaria em estágio inicial foi confirmada, porém com identificação de forte potencial de crescimento. As conclusões também apontaram, na área do Direito, uma concentração de estudos em casos discriminatórios semelhantes, bem como a identificação de objetos de análise e problemáticas similares. A pesquisa e suas conclusões se justificam considerando-se a importância de abordagens interdisciplinares a fim de ser obtida uma compreensão abrangente e atualizada do fenômeno da discriminação algorítmica, possibilitando o desenvolvimento de soluções regulatórias mais eficientes para as novas tecnologias.
Sexual Dimorphism in the Architectural Design of Rat and Human Pelvic Floor Muscles
Authors: Routzong Megan R. , Rieger Mary M. , Cook Mark S. , Ukkan Ramya , Alperin Marianna
Published: July 2024

Skeletal muscle architecture is a strong predictor of in vivo functional capacity and is evaluated in fixed tissues, accommodating the study of human muscles from cadaveric donors. Previous studies evaluating the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) demonstrated that the rat is the most appropriate small animal model for the study of female PFM architecture, but the rat's suitability for the study of male PFMs is undetermined. We aimed to determine (1) whether PFM architecture exhibits sexual dimorphism in rats or humans, and (2) if the rat is also a suitable animal model for the study of male human PFMs. PFMs were fixed in situ and harvested en bloc from male and female cadaveric donors and 3-month-old male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. Three architectural parameters influenced by species size were used to compare male versus female PFMs within species, while four size-independent measures compared species within sex. All comparisons were made with two-way analysis of variances and Tukey's multiple comparisons tests post hoc. Sarcomere length (rats and humans, p = 0.016 and = 0.002) and normalized fiber length (rats, p < 0.001) were significantly larger in male PFMs. Three of the size-independent measures exhibited similar species trends in both sexes, while the size-independent sarcomere length measure (Ls/Lso) differed between male rats and humans (p < 0.001). Thus, sexual dimorphism is present in rat and human PFM architecture, and the male rat is suitable for studies of human male PFMs.
A Framework of Real-Time Knowledge Capture and Formalization for Model-Based Design With Spoken Annotation and Design Operations
Authors: Nomaguchi Yutaka , Morikawa Hiroyuki , Nishida Rempei , Fujita Kikuo
Published: July 2024

Capturing knowledge without an extra burden on engineers is one of the most challenging issues in the engineering domain. This study proposes a framework of real-time knowledge capture and systematic formalization for the model-based design (MBD), the systems design approach where a simulation is a key component. The framework records the screen of the modeling tool as video data and spoken annotation in which an engineer verbally explains the rationale of the modeling conducted with Modelica-based software commonly used for MBD. The captured modeling tool log and spoken annotation are divided into chunks, each corresponding to a design operation, e.g., defining functions, defining system components, setting model elements, setting model parameters, and running simulations. The format of the graphical Issue-Based Information Systems (gIBIS), the argumentation model for representing design rationale represents the logical structure of the design process. We define design operation templates at the system and subsystem levels, which act as rules to convert the modeling tool log into gIBIS format systematically. We conduct a design case of a spinach harvesting machine with MBD software to verify the proposed framework. The results show that through non-intrusive recording of the design process, the proposed framework is effective in capturing knowledge that can be used to help understand how a model was built.
Analytical Inverse Kinematics for Two-Segment Extensible Continuum Manipulators
Authors: Xing Zhiguang , Yang Guoguo , Wang Pengyuan , Zheng Zheng , Zhao Jianwen
Published: July 2024

Fast inverse kinematics (IK) algorithm is significant for real-time precise motion control for continuum and soft manipulators. In this paper, we studied an explicit expression of a two-segment continuum manipulator based on constant curvature assumptions and discussed the existence of the IK solutions. Utilizing the pseudo-rigid-body method, we contrast this model with the traditional six-axis rigid industrial robot arm, revealing that two-segment extensible continuum manipulators exhibit limited rotation angles around the directional vector of their tips, thereby showcasing reduced dexterity. By pre-constraining five degrees-of-freedom (DOF) and addressing the definition of the remaining DOF, we streamline the IK-solving process, resulting in minimal computational overhead suitable for a wide range of applications. This model promises a robust and real-time approach for controlling two-segment extensible continuum manipulators, enhancing their operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Comparing Sagittal-Plane Biomechanics of Drop Jump Landing in Athletes With and Without Knee Osteoarthritis 2-Year Post-Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Nawasreh Zakariya H. , Yabroudi Mohammad A. , Daradkeh Sharf M. , Abujaber Sumayeh B. , Alsharei Adel S. , Bashaireh Khaldoon M.
Published: July 2024

The study aimed to determine differences in sagittal-plane joint biomechanics between athletes with and without knee osteoarthritis (OA) during drop vertical jump 2 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Forty-one athletes with ACLR completed motion analysis testing during drop vertical jump from 30 cm. Sagittal-plane peak joint angles and moments and joint contributions to total support moment (TSM) were calculated during first landing. Medial compartment knee OA of the reconstructed knee was evaluated using Kellgren–Lawrence scores (ACLR group: Kellgren–Lawrence <2; ACLR-OA group: Kellgren–Lawrence ≥2). The ACLR-OA group (n = 13) had higher hip and lower knee contributions in the surgical limb than the ACLR group and their nonsurgical limb. Further, the ACLR-OA group had higher peak hip extension moment than the ACLR group (P = .024). The ACLR-OA group had significantly lower peak knee extension and ankle plantar flexion moments and TSM (P ≤ .032) than ACLR group. The ACLR-OA group landed with increased hip extension moment, decreased knee extension and ankle plantar flexion moments and TSM, and decreased knee and increased hip contributions to TSM compared with ACLR group. The ACLR-OA group may have adopted movement patterns to decrease knee load and compensated by shifting the load to the hip. Clinicians may incorporate tailored rehabilitation programs that mitigate the decreased knee load to minimize the risk of knee OA after ACLR.
Exploring Elite Athlete Experiences of Growth: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Well-Being
Authors: Howard-Cook Erin , Howells Karen
Published: July 2024

The aim of the current study was to explore elite athletes’ experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on both growth and well-being. Informed by two complementary theoretical models, this research focused on elite athletes’ potential to experience growth. Five elite athletes completed the Stress-Related Growth Scale–Revised and underwent semistructured interviews to develop a narrative of their experiences. Through a thematic analysis, we articulated elite athletes’ experiences of both illusory and real adversarial growth following the COVID-19 pandemic. Four themes illustrated their experiences: the COVID-19 experience, searching for positives, self-transformation, and the social impact. A fifth theme, well-being, was integral throughout, involving the continued protection and development of athlete well-being. Future research recommendations and implications include further exploration of adversarial growth experiences after the pandemic and long-term effects of the pandemic on elite athletes, the creation of an adversarial growth measure, and engagement with this research to inform support measures to decrease the impact of adversity on elite athletes’ well-being.
Use of bidirectional Mendelian randomization to unveil the association of
Helicobacter pylori
infection and autoimmune thyroid diseases
Authors: Wang Kai , Zhang Qinnan , Zhang Panpan , Yang Qian , Pan Fanfan , Zha Bingbing
Published: July 2024

Previous observational studies found associations between
Helicobacter pylori
infection and autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs), but the causal nature of this association is still uncertain. We investigated the causal effect of six crucial antibodies against
H. pylori
on AITDs using a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR). We found that anti–
H. pylori
outer membrane protein (OMP) significantly increased the risk of hyperthyroidism and Graves’ disease (GD). In addition, our reverse MR analysis indicated that hyperthyroidism could increase the levels of cytotoxin-associated gene A and OMP antibodies. We also observed causal roles of GD on anti–
H. pylori
OMP. Our analyses indicate the mutual effects of
H. pylori
infection and AITDs, suggesting the existence of a gut-thyroid axis. These results also provide evidence of the bidirectional causal association between anti–
H. pylori
OMP with hyperthyroidism and GD, resulting in a vicious circle.
Magneto-optical chiral metasurfaces for achieving polarization-independent nonreciprocal transmission
Authors: Li Wenjia , Yang Qingdong , You Oubo , Lu Cuicui , Guan Fuxin , Liu Jianlong , Shi Jinhui , Zhang Shuang
Published: July 2024

Nonreciprocal transmission, resulting from the breaking of Lorentz reciprocity, plays a pivotal role in nonreciprocal communication systems by enabling asymmetric forward and backward propagations. Metasurfaces endowed with nonreciprocity represent a compact and facile platform for manipulating electromagnetic waves in an unprecedented manner. However, most passive metasurfaces that achieve nonreciprocal transmissions are polarization dependent. While incorporation of active elements or nonlinear materials can achieve polarization-independent nonreciprocal metasurfaces, the complicated configurations limit their practical applications. To address this issue, we propose and demonstrate a passive and linear metasurface that combines magneto-optical and chiral effects, enabling polarization-independent isolation. The designed metasurface achieves a transmittance of up to 80%, with a high contrast between forward and backward propagations. Our work introduces a novel mechanism for nonreciprocal transmission and lays the foundation for the development of compact, polarization-insensitive nonreciprocal devices.
Space is a latent sequence: A theory of the hippocampus
Authors: Raju Rajkumar Vasudeva , Guntupalli J. Swaroop , Zhou Guangyao , Wendelken Carter , Lázaro-Gredilla Miguel , George Dileep
Published: July 2024

Fascinating phenomena such as landmark vector cells and splitter cells are frequently discovered in the hippocampus. Without a unifying principle, each experiment seemingly uncovers new anomalies or coding types. Here, we provide a unifying principle that the mental representation of space is an emergent property of latent higher-order sequence learning. Treating space as a sequence resolves numerous phenomena and suggests that the place field mapping methodology that interprets sequential neuronal responses in Euclidean terms might itself be a source of anomalies. Our model, clone-structured causal graph (CSCG), employs higher-order graph scaffolding to learn latent representations by mapping aliased egocentric sensory inputs to unique contexts. Learning to compress sequential and episodic experiences using CSCGs yields allocentric cognitive maps that are suitable for planning, introspection, consolidation, and abstraction. By explicating the role of Euclidean place field mapping and demonstrating how latent sequential representations unify myriad observed phenomena, our work positions the hippocampus in a sequence-centric paradigm, challenging the prevailing space-centric view.