bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPACT OF SELF-SUFFICIENCY FISH FEED PROGRAM ON THE FISH FARMING BUSINESS PERFORMANCE
Authors: Rachmawati Sari , Kusnadi Nunung , Tinaprilla Netti
Published: July 2024

High feed prices and a high proportion of feed costs cause the profitability of fish farming businesses to decline. One of the government's efforts to reduce feed costs is encouraging fish farmers to produce their feed using local raw materials through Self-Sufficiency Fish Feed Program. This study aims to analyze program’s impact on the fish farming performance using the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) method. Performance is measured by cost, revenue, profit, R/C ratio, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR), and technical efficiency which estimated using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). The results show that program implementation at the fish farmer's level has not positively impacted the fish farming business's performance. The results of the PSM analysis show that the program significantly impacts on costs, revenue, profit, R/C ratio, FCR, and technical efficiency. Farmers with programs have a higher average cost and FCR than farmers without programs. The fish farmers with program have a lower revenue, profit, R/C ratio and technical efficiency than fish farmers without program. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that the main cause the program has not had a positive impact on the fish farming businesses performance is the quality of self-sufficiency fish feed. Therefore, the recommended policy is to create a system for supplying local raw materials with good quality, increasing feed formulation training and need specialize by forming group of self-sufficiency fish feed producers separated from the fish farming group.
Importance of Proapoptotic Protein PUMA in Cell Radioresistance
Authors: Vávrová Jiřina , Řezáčová M.
Published: July 2024

Protein p53 plays an essential role in the induction of apoptosis by ionizing radiation in haemopoietic cells, the damage of which is the main reason for the development of bone marrow post-irradiation syndrome. p53 activation leads to an increase in the Bcl-2 family pro-apoptotic protein PUMA level. PUMA inhibits all the five anti-apoptotic proteins (Mcl-1, Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, Bcl-W and A1) and directly triggers apoptosis mediated by pro-apoptotic proteins Bax/Bak. In proliferating cells, knockout of p53 inhibits apoptosis on the one hand, but on the other disables the cellular division arrest moderated by p21Cip1/Waf1. The radioprotective effect of p53 inhibitor pifithrin was obvious at radiation doses causing the bone marrow syndrome. Knockout of PUMA also exerts its radioprotective effect through blocking the apoptosis induction, but the arrest of cells in the cell cycle through p21 induction is not abolished. PUMA -/- mice are radioresistant in terms of the development of post-irradiation syndrome after all radiation doses. Small molecules are being searched for that could prevent binding of PUMA with Bcl-2 family anti-apoptotic proteins. This would result in apoptosis inhibition and radioprotective or mitigating effects of these inhibitors.
Pojęcie narodu w polskim prawie konstytucyjnym a praktyka polityczna lat 2015–2023
Authors: Ksenicz Igor
Published: July 2024

Celem artykułu jest ustalenie, jak ewoluowało pojęcie „naród” w polskim prawie konstytucyjnym na tle przykładów praktyki politycznej lat 2015–2023. Autor weryfikował następującą hipotezę: mimo wynikającej z Konstytucji Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej obywatelskiej koncepcji narodu, rząd Zjednoczonej Prawicy w celach politycznych zawężał jego rozumienie do narodu kulturowo-etnicznego, co skutkowało ograniczaniem praw mniejszości narodowych i etnicznych. W pierwszej części tekstu dokonano interpretacji przepisów konstytucyjnych (historycznych i obowiązujących) poświęconych narodowi oraz analizy orzecznictwa i doktryny. Ustalono, że – mimo obowiązującej w Polsce politycznej koncepcji narodu – część doktryny stoi na stanowisku uprzywilejowującym w procedurze ubiegania się o obywatelstwo RP obcokrajowców polskiego pochodzenia oraz tych, którzy ulegli asymilacji. Negatywnie oceniono działania polskich władz wymierzone w mniejszości narodowe i etniczne, które stały się zakładnikami problemów niewyjaśnionych na poziomie międzypaństwowym (w drugiej części tekstu zilustrowały to studia przypadków mniejszości ukraińskiej i łemkowskiej oraz niemieckiej). Ataki na mniejszości, powodowane bieżącymi potrzebami politycznymi, stanowią niebezpieczny precedens. W przyszłości podobne działania mogą zostać wymierzone w kolejne grupy społeczne.
Case Study on Effects of AAC Intervention services in Clinic center
Authors: Kim KyungYang , Lee NaYoung ,   Korean Society of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Published: July 2024

Background & Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) direct teaching of AAC intervention service in clinic center. The children who participated in this study were the students who did not participate in AAC intervention earlier. Method: Case 1 included a student with cerebral palsy and Case 2 included a student with a developmental disability. Through the AAC direct teaching of this study, we were able to examine the improvements in communication ability. The study design was a pre-post test. For Case 1, 48 sessions were conducted and for Case 2, 8 sessions were conducted. Results: The intervention and communication skills were evaluated, generalized, and maintained through conversation partner training before and after AAC. Conclusion: This study implies the significance of systematic AAC intervention by AAC experts in the clinic center, which is a separate environment for the performance of the pilot project.
The Etruscan Kiss and Embrace: A Mirror at the British Museum and a Lifetime in a Gesture
Authors: Guerini Giulietta
Published: July 2024

The British Museum currently houses an Etruscan mirror portraying a depiction of two women engaged in an embrace and sharing a kiss. Despite previous endeavors to elucidate the symbolic gesture, the profound implications behind the embrace remain shrouded in ambiguity. This article argues that the mirror, while adorned with a veneer of mythology, conceals a narrative that holds pivotal significance in a woman’s life, specifically, the moment of a bride bidding farewell to her mother. Under this interpretive framework, the gesture takes on the role of a salutation, a conjecture fortified by parallels drawn from analogous scenes in different artistic mediums.
Impacts of cold exposure on energy metabolism
Authors: Yan Miao , Wang Shanjie , Fang Shaohong , E. Mingyan , Yu Bo
Published: July 2024

Cold stimulation has been shown to regulate glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, while also increasing heat production and energy expenditure in the body. Disordered energy metabolism is a key factor in the onset and progression of chronic metabolic conditiones such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Recent research has unveiled the myriad pathways through which cold stimulation affects human energy metabolism. This article provides an overview of how cold stimulation affects energy metabolism across the three major metabolic pathways. Furthermore, it explores the implications and potential therapeutic applications of cold stimulation in the prevention and treatment of various metabolic diseases.
Cryoablation techniques in bladder cancer: A review
Authors: Ma Binglei , Teixeira Wilhem , Jiang Lijuan
Published: July 2024

Bladder cancer (BC) ranks as the tenth most common cancer globally. Histopathologically, BC is broadly categorized into urothelial and non-urothelial BC. Urothelial carcinoma represents over 90% of BC in most regions worldwide. The standard treatment procedure for diagnosing and treating non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT). Currently, the standard of care for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy. Cryoablation therapy is a medical technique that uses extremely low temperatures to destroy diseased tissue. This treatment serves as a therapeutic tool for both benign and malignant diseases in organs such as the kidney, prostate gland, lung, liver, and breast, and is particularly effective for unresectable tumors, offering less trauma, quick recovery, good tolerability, and symptom control. However, cryoablation has its limitations. Over the past few years, cryoablation therapy has emerged as a new method for treating early BC. This treatment is minimally invasive, precise, and offers quick recovery, providing patients with a new treatment option. Although randomized studies are still limited, increasing evidence suggests its potential application in bladder cancer combined with transurethral resection (TURBT) or medication. Cryoablation is not standard therapy for bladder cancer. Treatment decisions should be discussed by a multidisciplinary team of urologists, oncologists, and interventional physicians and require more randomized controlled trials to define patient selection criteria and treatment approaches.
Cold environments and human metabolism: A traditional chinese medicine perspective
Authors: Zhao Tengyu , Ma Yifu , Zhang Jian , Zhou Xiaojie , Zhou Yanyan , Yan Jingdong
Published: July 2024

The concept of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes the intrinsic connection between human beings and nature, positing that the human body undergoes distinct physiological changes in response to various natural environments. Cold, as a primary external factor in cold areas, necessitates the body’s autonomous adaptation to uphold optimal living conditions. The repercussions of cold on the body are both far-reaching and profound, with metabolic equilibrium adjustments playing a pivotal role. This article, rooted in the TCM principle of Yin-Yang balance, delves into the metabolic intricacies and adaptive responses to the human body in cold environments. The effects manifest in heat-producing tissues, systemic substance consumption, the blood substance concentrations, liver function, and metabolic rhythms. The article subsequently presents TCM recommendations for maintaining health in cold climates. It concludes by advocating the exploration of metabolic homeostasis changes as a key avenue for investigating the metabolic traits s of populations in cold regions. We posit that such insights will enhance comprehension of the metabolic shifts in cold region populations and advance the evolution of regional medicine.
Toll-like receptors 2 polymorphism is associated with psoriasis: A case-control study in the northern Chinese population
Authors: Hao Siyu , Zhang Yu , Yin Anqi , Lyu Ying , Tong Nannan , Tian Jiangtian , Li Yuzhen
Published: July 2024

Background

Psoriasis is a disease caused by genetics and immune system dysfunction, affecting the skin and joints. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in triggering the innate immune response and controlling adaptive immunity. The role of TLR2 in the progression of psoriasis is not well understood.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted on a northern Chinese Han population, consisting of psoriasis patients and healthy control subjects. Genotyping was performed using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR), and allele and genotype frequencies of four SNPs in TLR2 were analyzed in 270 psoriasis patients and 246 healthy controls.

Results

Four TLR2 SNPs (rs11938228, rs4696480, rs3804099, rs5743699) were genotyped and found to be in linkage disequilibrium. The genotype distributions of rs11938228 and rs4696480 in two groups were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and statistically significant except for the overdominance model. The haplotypes ATTC and ATCC were found to be protective against psoriasis.

Conclusion

Our study found a correlation between TLR2 genetic variations and the likelihood of psoriasis in northern China.
Vitamin D deficiency and increased inflammatory factor intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 indicate severe leukoaraiosis in northern China
Authors: Guan Jiaxin , Gan Lu , Yan Chaoqi , Hou Boyu , Fan Ying
Published: July 2024

Background and objective

Commonly plaguing in the frigid zone of the world, vitamin D deficiency, as indicated by low levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, exacerbated inflammatory responses and impaired endothelial function. Leukoaraiosis (LA) is a prevalent cause of cognitive dysfunction in the elderly and is potentially associated with inflammatory responses. This study aimed to investigate the impact of vitamin D on the severity of LA.

Methods

Patients with LA were categorized based on 3.0 T brain MRI findings into mild (N = 43), moderate (N = 40), or severe groups (N = 29) using the Fazekas scale (scoring 1-6). A control group consisting of 41 healthy individuals was included. Serum fibrinogen C, homocysteine, plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) levels were measured using ELISA.

Results

All LA severity groups exhibited lower plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels compared to the control group, with a more pronounced decrease observed as LA severity increased. Low plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D was identified as an independent risk factor for LA (P < 0.05) according to Multiple logistic regression analysis. Additionally, a negative association was observed between 25-hydroxyvitamin D and vascular inflammatory factor ICAM-1.

Conclusions

Disease severity positively correlated with levels of the inflammatory marker ICAM-1, worsening as plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration decreased. Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D emerged as an independent risk factor for LA, potentially exacerbating the inflammatory response. These findings suggest 25-hydroxyvitamin D supplementation as a potential therapeutic approach for LA.
PLA2G2D and CHIT1: Potential biomarkers for immune infiltration and prognosis in cervical squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Liangliang , Qiao Qiushuang , Wang Jing
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify biomarkers associated with immunity and prognosis in patients with cervical cancer.

Materials and methods

Data from patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CESC) were retrieved from the UCSC Xena database and subjected to analysis. Gene sets representing 22 types of immunocytes were acquired, and immunocytes relevant to prognosis were identified. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to identify gene modules associated with prognosis-related immunocytes and to construct immune-related gene markers. Differentially expressed genes were then screened, and the association between immune score and biological function of immune-related gene markers was analyzed. Furthermore, tissue samples from cervical cancer patients in Northeast China were collected to validate the expression of two genes using real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results

This study identified 10 immunocytes significantly correlated with overall survival time in patients. Six gene modules were identified as significantly associated with prognosis-related immunocytes, with gene module 6 showing relevance to all prognosis-related immunocytes. Gene module 6 was related to all prognosis-related immunocytes. Moreover, two genes (including PLA2G2D and CHIT1) were found to be significantly associated with overall survival in cancer patients. Patients with CESC were classified into high and low immune score groups based on the median score of gene markers. Correlation analysis of the immune score and biological function was performed. Immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR results revealed high expression of CHIT1 and PLA2G2D in CESC tumor tissues.

Conclusion

PLA2G2D and CHIT1 show promise as biomarkers for evaluating immune infiltration and prognosis in patients with cervical cancer.
Characteristics of gut microbiota in anastomotic leakage patients in cold zones post-colorectal cancer surgery: A high-throughput sequencing and propensity-score matching study
Authors: Wang Yuliuming , Zhang Yukun , Cao Yu , Zhang Weiyuan , Liu Ming , Wang Guiyu
Published: July 2024

Objective

The study aimed to explore the association between gut microbiota and anastomotic leakage (AL) after surgery in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients from a frigid zone, based on high-throughput sequencing.

Methods

A total of 98 CRC patients admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University from July 2018 to February 2019, who met the inclusion criteria, were included. Among these, 10 patients were diagnosed as AL. After propensity-score matching of baseline characteristics, 10 patients from the anastomotic leakage group (AG) and 10 patients from the normal group (NG) were finally included in this study. Fecal samples were collected, and total DNA was extracted for high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatic analysis.

Results

Alpha diversity analysis showed no significant difference between the two groups, while beta diversity analysis revealed significant differences in principal components. Differential microbiota were classified as Proteobacteria at the phylum level (P = 0.021). At the genus level, the abundances of Streptococcus (P = 0.045), Citrobacter (P = 0.008) and Klebsiella (P = 0.002) were significantly different between the two groups. LEfSe analysis indicated that these genera contributed most to the differences between the groups.

Conclusion

The characteristics of the gut microbiota in the AG and NG were significantly different, and these differences might be associated with AL in CRC patients from frigid zones.
Metaphor and gender: are words associated with source domains perceived in a gendered way?
Authors: Ahrens Kathleen , Zeng Winnie Huiheng , Burgers Christian , Huang Chu-Ren
Published: July 2024

Conceptual metaphors are one of many linguistic devices that can potentially encode and reinforce gender stereotypes. However, little is known about how metaphors encode gender stereotypes, and in previous literature the concept of “gendered metaphor” has been mostly assumed rather than attested. We take the first step to tackle this issue by examining the gender typicality of specific metaphorical source domains. In the present paper, we conducted three rating experiments (N

total
 = 1,060 English-speaking participants) to determine the genderedness of 50 keywords associated with five frequently used source domains (building, competition, journey, plant, and war). We found that keywords associated with three source domains (building, competition, and war) were viewed as more masculine, while keywords associated with the source domains of journey and plant were viewed as more feminine. These data offer empirical verification for gendered perceptions of keywords associated with some frequently used source domains. The result also provides the first evidence that metaphors could encode gender stereotypes by selection of source domains.
Elucidating Divine Atemporality
Authors: Sijuwade Joshua R.
Published: July 2024

This article aims to provide a philosophical elucidation of the concept of divine atemporality (i.e. divine timelessness and immutability), found within the theological trajectory of Classical Theism, and a philosophical model – termed Aspectival Pluralism – that demonstrates its compatibility with the further notion of Divine Preservation. To achieve this end, an original interpretation of the concept is formulated within the Aspectival Account and the thesis of Theistic Ontological Pluralism, as extended by the temporal ontology of Priority Presentism, introduced by Sam Baron, and the Exdurantist view of persistence, introduced by Theodore Sider, which will ultimately enable the notion to be elucidated in a clear and consistent manner and help to answer an important conceptual question concerning it.
Compositional zoning and evolution of symplectite coronas in jadeitite
Authors: Yingying Xing , Lijian Qi
Published: July 2024

Multistage fluid activities play an important role in the interaction between jadeitite and symplectite coronas; therefore, we studied the compositional zoning and evolution of representative Myanmar jadeitite. Under the influence of multistage Ca-, Na-, and Si-rich fluid activity, some minerals in Myanmar jadeitite formed symplectite coronas with concentric rings and multilayer metasomatic reaction rim structures. Additionally, the concentrations of Cr and Fe decrease from the core to the peripheral jadeite minerals, whereas the concentration of Si markedly increases. There is almost no Si or Ca in the chromite core, and the concentrations of Si and Ca increase sharply in rims composed of uvarovite. Due to Cr diffusion, the edge of the jadeite adjacent to kosmochlor is Cr-rich and Al-poor. The different element concentrations indicate that the uvarovite formed from the presence of a chromite and jadeite interaction, Si in the kosmochlor after metasomatism or an external Ca-rich fluid. One possible explanation for the formation of kosmochlor is the interaction between chromite and a Na- and Si-rich fluid. Also, Ca-rich fluid could have first interacted with chromite and formed uvarovite; subsequently, a Na-rich fluid could have entered and become saturated with kosmochlor, leading to the formation of kosmochlor surrounding the uvarovite.
Rheological characterization on novel viscoelastic tetrameric polyhydroxy cationic surfactant/sodium chloride micelle solutions
Authors: Zhang Siqi , Wang Dongqing , Fang Bo , Li Yudie , Shen Jiayi , Tian Zhenrui , He Jinlan
Published: July 2024

A novel viscoelastic surfactant (VES) micelle system was developed by using a new tetrameric polyhydroxy cationic surfactant (STPC) as a thickener in combination with sodium chloride (NaCl). The flow curves, thixotropy, viscoelasticity, viscosity-temperature relationship, temperature and shear resistance, and thermal thixotropy of the micelle system were further investigated. The results showed that the new four-parameter rheo kinetic model accurately described the viscosity versus shear time curve of the micelle system. The established four-parameter viscosity-temperature relationship model could be used to characterize the viscosity versus temperature curve of the micelle system. Meanwhile, the Carreau model could also be fitted to the flow curve of the STPC/NaCl micelle solution. The effects of counterion salt concentration and surfactant concentration on the rheological properties of the viscoelastic STPC/NaCl micelle solution were clarified and the optimum mass ratio of 5 wt%/5 wt% for the STPC/NaCl solution was determined. The viscoelastic modulus versus temperature curves of the STPC/NaCl (5 wt%/5 wt%) micelle solution showed that it exhibited thermal thixotropy. This study extends on the types of thickeners and VES micelle systems and provides a rheological reference for the application of viscoelastic tetrameric cationic surfactants in oil fields.
Rusijos agresijos atspindžiai 2023 m. savivaldos rinkimuose
Authors: Narbutas Audris
Published: July 2024

Nors tiesioginiai merų rinkimai buvo viena didžiausių pastarojo dešimtmečio Lietuvos politinės sistemos reformų, paskatinusi
2022 m. Lietuvos Respublikos Seimą balsuoti dėl Konstitucijos, tačiau ši tema ir savivaldos rinkimai apskritai kol kas Lietuvos
politologų dėmesio sulaukia tik epizodiškai. Tarp negausių politologinių tyrimų savivaldos tematika dar mažiau dėmesio tenka studijoms,
nagrinėjančioms kandidatų į merus bei savivaldybių tarybas programas. Šio straipsnio tikslas yra iš dalies užpildyti žiojinčią
spragą, analizuojant vieno didžiausių pastarojo meto įvykių – Rusijos agresijos Ukrainoje atspindžius 2023 m. merų bei savivaldybių
tarybų rinkimuose. Siekiant šio tikslo išnagrinėti visose 60 Lietuvos savivaldybių vykę merų ir savivaldybių tarybų narių rinkimai.
Taikant kiekybinę turinio analizę išanalizuotos visų kandidatų į merus ir savivaldybių VRK skelbiamos rinkiminės programos.
Surinkti empiriniai duomenys leido politines organizacijas bei vyravusias temas skirstyti į blokus. Atlikta analizė atskleidė, kad,
nepaisant didelio visuomenės susidomėjimo Rusijos agresija Ukrainoje bei savivaldybių pareigos rūpintis civiline sauga, daugelyje
iš nagrinėtų savivaldybių ši tema liko išvis neminėta. Be to, didesnis dėmesys saugumo klausimams nepadėjo politikams laimėti
rinkimų. Galiausiai didesniu aktyvumu komunikuojant apie saugumą pasižymėjo tos politinės organizacijos, kurių nacionaliniu
lygmeniu dažniausiai nesame linkę sieti su saugumo tematika.
Investigating the Relationship Between Graduate Learners’ Attitudes Towards Online Learning and Social Anxiety
Authors: Nilgun Ozdamar Nilgun Ozdamar , Ummuhan Icme Ummuhan Icme
Published: July 2024

This study examined the relationship between graduate students’ attitudes towards online learning and their social anxiety levels. Our
research question is whether students’ levels of social anxiety and attitudes towards online learning differ according to demographic
variables. The study was conducted by adopting a causal-comparative and correlational research design. The data was collected from
142 students enrolled on Anadolu University Graduate School of Social Sciences and t h e Graduate School of Educational Sciences
online master’s degree programmes in the 2020–2021 academic year. The data instruments used in the study were a personal
information form developed by the researchers and scales measuring social anxiety in online learning environments and attitudes
towards online learning. The results of the study showed a negative correlation between social anxiety and attitudes towards online
learning. The implications of the study and suggestions for future research are also discussed in the present study.
Presenting a CBR Estimation Model and Compaction Characteristics of Base Layer of Pavement Using a Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) Test
Authors: Elyasi Mohammad Reza , Daryaee Daryoosh , Sarabi Fatemeh
Published: July 2024

In general, the basis of any type of management decision-making system is a correct evaluation of the current situation, future prediction, and finally optimal decision-making. There are various field methods for road pavement evaluation, among which are destructive and nondestructive methods. One of the nondestructive testing methods is dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) testing. The main objective of this study is to investigate the feasibility of using DCP to control the quality of pavement layers and estimate parameters such as California bearing ratio (CBR) and compaction ratio. For this purpose, DCP, CBR tests, and determination of density percentage have been used as parameters used to control the quality of pavement layers. The dynamic resistance meter or DCP is a device that is used to quickly measure the resistance of different pavement layers. This device causes a small destruction on the surface. Hence, it is also called nondestructive testing. However, to use DCP, it is necessary to measure its results with the results of prevalent and widely used tests such as CBR and to examine their relationships. In this research, the DCP, CBR, density, sieve analysis, moisture content, and Atterberg limit tests were performed on two locations (a highway under construction and a landscaping project). Then, the results of the DCP test with CBR and soil compaction ratio (R) in two different locations were investigated and the relationships between these parameters were determined. The results showed that there is a good relationship statistically between DCP and CBR parameters in both locations. Also, for the first time, a very good correlation between the R parameter and the results of the dynamic penetrometer cone test was obtained. The observations represented that the correlation coefficients are higher than 0.9 in the highway location, which had well-graded soil in comparison with the landscaping project.
Phase Stability Evaluation of Highly Modified Asphalt with High Vinyl Content Copolymer
Authors: Manfro Alexandre Luiz , Melo João Victor Staub de , Barra Breno Salgado
Published: July 2024

This study evaluated whether use of a high-vinyl styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) copolymer can provide adequate phase stability to highly modified asphalt (HiMA). An asphalt binder was modified with 7.5 % high-vinyl SBS to produce HiMA. A conventional polymer-modified asphalt was produced with 4 % SBS without vinyl and, together with the base asphalt, considered as reference samples. In the first phase, samples were analyzed considering unaged and short-term aged conditions. The experimental procedure analyzed binder morphology using fluorescence microscopy and determined chemical functional groups through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Rheological behavior at intermediate temperatures was evaluated concerning dynamic shear modulus, phase angle, and linear amplitude sweep (LAS) tests at 20°C. High-temperature properties, including apparent viscosity, performance grade, aging index, and multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR) test, were also assessed. In the second phase, unaged asphalt binders were subjected to storage stability test, and the top and bottom sections were evaluated through fluorescence microscopy, FTIR, LAS, and MSCR tests. The samples with 7.5 % high vinyl SBS exhibited enhanced fatigue tolerance in the LAS test compared to base asphalt (14.35 times higher at 15 % shear strain) and samples with 4 % SBS without vinyl (6.62 times higher at 15 % shear strain). Additionally, it displayed superior resistance to deformation accumulation at high temperatures (ε10 parameter from MSCR) compared to base asphalt (99.65 % smaller at 64°C) and samples with 4 % SBS without vinyl (93.05 % smaller at 64°C). However, the storage stability of the asphalt samples with 7.5 % high vinyl SBS was compromised due to phase separation, severely impacting the rheological performance at intermediate and high temperatures. It was concluded that the incorporation of high levels positively impacts mechanical/rheological performance, but the molecular characteristics of the high vinyl SBS are not capable of providing adequate storage stability at a content of 7.5 %.
Application of the Phase Spectrum of Impact Echo in the Detection of Grouting Defects in the Tendon Ducts
Authors: Chai Wenhao , Yang Yaxun
Published: July 2024

The impact-echo method is widely used to detect grouting defects within prestressed concrete tendon ducts. However, when the distance from the rebar to the test surface was half the depth from the defect to the test surface, the amplitude spectrum of the conventional fast Fourier transform failed to distinguish between internal defects in tendon ducts and external rebar. To overcome this challenge, in this paper, the phase spectrum and amplitude spectrum were combined to identify the internal defects and external rebar of the tendon ducts. First, the amplitude spectrum was used to determine the depth of defects and rebar, and then the phase spectrum was used to further determine the category of the reflected interface (defect interface or rebar interface). The feasibility of the method was verified by model tests and numerical simulations. Afterward, the effects of impact duration, sampling time, the size of defect, duct thickness, rebar, and defect burial depth on the phase of the impact echo were analyzed. The results show that the proposed method can identify the internal defects in the tendon ducts and rebars very well.
Flexural Performance and Failure Mechanism of High-Strength Coral Sand Reinforced Concrete Slab by Experiment and Simulation
Authors: Shang Kai , Chen Xudong , Shi Dandan , Wu Wenwen , Wang Ningning
Published: July 2024

Coral sand is very important to the construction of coastal defense engineering, and the research of coral sand concrete slabs is also in the initial stage. To investigate the mechanical properties of high-strength coral sand reinforced concrete slab (HSCSRCS), a four-point flexural loading test was carried out for three kinds of components with different reinforcement ratios. The test results actually showed that the HSCSRCS components prepared by the optimized mix ratio and the process had the characteristics of high strength, large brittleness, and high bearing capacity, and the cracking load of HSCSRCS components was large at 30 % of the ultimate bearing capacity because of the pore filling inside the concrete aggregate. The damage process of HSCSRCS could be divided into four stages, representing the primary pressure, cracking, flexural loading, and damage stage, and the mechanical properties were relatively stable because of the broken internal particles and continuous pore filling. The initial crack of the component was mainly caused by sliding and rotation of the particles at the bottom of the loading point plate along the structural surface, which gradually expanded from the middle area to the four corners of the plate, and the distribution mode was dense at the bottom of the loading points and sparse at other areas. ANSYS finite element analysis program was used for modeling and solving, which showed that the simulation results of cracking load, bearing capacity, load-displacement curve, and stress cloud map are consistent with the actual experiment results.
An Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Strip Footing Behavior on Geogrid-Reinforced Embankment Resting on Soft Soil
Authors: Nandi Baishali , Bhowmik Debjit , Hussain Monowar
Published: July 2024

The study aims to assess the impact of geogrid reinforcement on embankments over soft soil subjected to strip loading through experimental and finite element method–based numerical analyses. Various factors, including footing location, geogrid depth, length, and the number of layers, were systematically varied to evaluate their influences on the bearing capacity of strip footing on top of slope. The study shows that an increase of up to 75 % in bearing capacity was observed for the reinforced slopes with the use of multiple geogrid layers at optimum depths and lengths. Further, the optimum number of geogrid layers is contingent upon the footing location. Moreover, the effectiveness of single basal reinforcement for different footing locations and dimensions was explored, and an improvement of up to 34.5 % was observed in bearing capacity. Further, the results indicate that effective improvement in bearing capacity through basal reinforcement is only possible when the failure zone penetrates the interface between the embankment and base soil. Otherwise, the use of multiple layers of reinforcement at shallower depths is proved to be more effective.
Evaluation of Precision Statements for Physio-mechanical Characterization Tests on GFRP Bars
Authors: Vega Camilo , Zahoor Yameen , Palacios Juan , De Caso Francisco , Nanni Antonio
Published: July 2024

Glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars are composite materials that, in the field of civil engineering, serve as an alternative for the internal steel reinforcement of concrete structures. The study and development of these material systems in construction are relatively new, requiring targeted research and development to achieve greater adoption. In this scenario, research and standardization play crucial roles. The development and publication of new test methods, material specifications, and other standards, as well as the improvement of the existing ones, allow for quality control, validation, and acceptance. One of these improvements is the evaluation of precision statements of the different ASTM standards related to the physical-mechanical and durability characterization of GFRP bars used as internal concrete reinforcement. Precision refers to how closely test results obtained under specific conditions agree with each other. A precision statement allows potential users to assess the test method’s general suitability for their intended applications. It should provide guidance on the type of variation that can be expected between test results when the method is used in one or more competent laboratories. The present study aims to enhance the precision statements in ASTM standards pertaining to the geometric, material, mechanical, and physical properties required for GFRP bars in concrete reinforcement, including ASTM standards like ASTM D7205M-21, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite Bars; ASTM D7617M-11(2017), Standard Test Method for Transverse Shear Strength of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite Bars; and ASTM D7913M-14(2020), Standard Test Method for Bond Strength of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composite Bars to Concrete by Pullout Testing, while in accordance with the statistical procedures and calculation methods outlined in ASTM Practices ASTM E177-20, Standard Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods, and ASTM E691-22, Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method.
Assisting Load Rating Testing of Precast Reinforced Concrete Bridge Slab through Digital Twins and Field Monitoring Data
Authors: Ai Li , K C Laxman , Elbatanouny Elhussien , Henderson Alexander , Ziehl Paul
Published: July 2024

Bridges deteriorate over time because of factors like rebar corrosion and concrete damage, reducing their load-bearing capacity. Traditional load grading processes are costly and time-consuming, often resulting in traffic disruptions of one to four days because of lane closures. This study introduced a load rating technique leveraging digital twins technology. Data related to crack evolution and inherent strain during loading were obtained by monitoring the laboratory bridge slabs using potentiometers, strain gauges, and fiber optic sensors. Subsequently, a calibrated three-dimensional finite element model, representing different loading scenarios, was crafted, forming the foundation for the digital twins model of bridge slabs. The slab model was then integrated into a bridge span, constituting a digital twins model of the bridge span for load rating tests. The developed digital twins model was applied to a bridge in Abbeville, South Carolina, and its accuracy was validated with field monitoring data.
John Locke a partir de John Locke: algo contra as incompreensões acerca de suas ideias
Authors: Taporosky Filho Paulo Silas
Published: July 2024

Resumo: John Locke foi um importante pensador que contribuiu para a elaboração da teoria contratualista do Estado. Construída de um modo próprio, Locke estipulou uma origem hipotética do Estado, explanando sobre o estado de natureza enquanto base das comunidades que passariam a se agrupar enquanto Estado propriamente dito. Há dentre as suas ideias uma ampla defesa da propriedade privada, razão pela qual recebe ainda hoje algumas críticas que aqui se entende descabidas. Ao se ler Locke na própria fonte, uma maior compreensão de sua teoria se faz presente, ensejando na possibilidade de superar alguns equívocos interpretativos acerca de suas ideias. Daí é que o estudo de Locke, a partir do próprio Locke, é medida necessária para que se possa compreender de fato de que modo a sua defesa da propriedade é feita, conferindo ao pensador o crédito devido e, mesmo quando das críticas, que estas tenham uma substância concreta.Palavras-chave: John Locke. Teoria contratualista. Propriedade. Abstract: John Locke was an important thinker who contributed to the elaboration of the contractual theory of the State. Locke stipulated a hypothetical origin of the State, explaining the state of nature as the basis of the communities that would come to group together as a proper State. Among his ideas is a broad defense of private property, which is why he still receives some criticisms that are understood here as misunderstandings. By reading Locke in his own source, a greater understanding of his theory is reached, giving rise to the possibility of overcoming some interpretive misconceptions about his ideas. Hence Locke’s study of Locke himself is a necessary measure in order to really understand how his defense of property is made, giving the thinker the due credit, and even when criticized, that these criticisms may have a concrete substance.Keywords: John Locke. Contractual theory. Property. Sumário: Introdução. 1. Ler Locke a partir de Locke para compreendê-lo. 2. Um clássico precursor da filosofia política. 3. Justiça seja feita para Locke: sua importância e a defesa da propriedade privada reconhecida pelo estado. Considerações Finais.
Mediação no Processo do Trabalho
Authors: Ellwanger Carolina , Koury Bruna Lucchesi
Published: July 2024

Resumo: O método da mediação foi trazido como fase processual com o Código de Processo Civil de 2015. É considerado meio adequado de resolução de conflitos e objetiva o tratamento dos conflitos por parte das partes com o auxílio de um terceiro, que irá aplicar técnicas de acordo com cada caso concreto. O estudo aborda a possibilidade de aplicação e as consequências da mediação como ferramenta no tratamento de conflitos no âmbito do Direito Processual do Trabalho. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de revisão bibliográfica somada a uma análise sobre a aplicação da mediação no âmbito do sistema judiciário brasileiro. Apesar da existência de Instrução Normativa do Tribunal Superior do Trabalho, entende-se que há mecanismos legais que autorizam a utilização, bem como fortes indicativos de benefícios que essa aplicação poderia gerar.Palavras-chave: Mediação; Resolução de Conflitos; Direito Processual do Trabalho. Abstract: The mediation method was brought as a procedural step with the Code of Civil Procedure of 2015. It is considered an adequate means of conflict resolution with the intention that the parties seek the treatment of conflicts with the help of a third party who will apply settlement techniques to each case. The study addresses the possibility of application and the consequences of mediation as a tool in the treatment of conflicts within the scope of Labor Procedural Law. This is a bibliographical review research with the addition of an analysis of the application of mediation within the Brazilian judicial system. Despite the existence of Normative Instruction of the Superior Labor Court, it is understood that there are legal mechanisms that authorize the use, as well as strong indications of benefits that this application could generate.Keywords: Mediation; Conflict resolution; Labor Procedural Law. Sumário: Introdução. 1. Mediação. 1.1. Resolução Nº 125/2010 do Conselho Nacional de Justiça. 1.2. Princípios da mediação. 1.3. Audiência de mediação. 1.4. Técnicas da mediação. 2. Direito Processual do Trabalho. 2.1. Os órgãos criados para soluções de conflitos no Direito do Trabalho. 2.2. Audiência inicial no processo do trabalho: a busca pelo acordo. 3. Aplicação da mediação no Direito Processual do Trabalho. 3.1. O art. 15 do novo Código de Processo Civil e a aplicação “supletiva” e “subsidiária” no processo do trabalho. 3.2. O art. 15 do Código de Processo Civil de 2015 à luz da instrução normativa nº 39/2016, do TST. Conclusão. Referências.
Dissociable Representations of Decision Variables within Subdivisions of the Macaque Orbital and Ventrolateral Frontal Cortex
Authors: Stoll Frederic M. , Rudebeck Peter H.
Published: July 2024

The ventral frontal cortex (VFC) in macaques is involved in many affective and cognitive processes and has a key role in flexibly guiding reward-based decision-making. VFC is composed of a set of anatomically distinct subdivisions that are within the orbitofrontal cortex, ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, and anterior insula. In part, because prior studies have lacked the resolution to test for differences, it is unclear if neural representations related to decision-making are dissociable across these subdivisions. Here we recorded the activity of thousands of neurons within eight anatomically defined subdivisions of VFC in male macaque monkeys performing a two-choice probabilistic task for different fruit juice outcomes. We found substantial variation in the encoding of decision variables across these eight subdivisions. Notably, ventrolateral Area 12l was unique relative to the other areas that we recorded from as the activity of single neurons integrated multiple attributes when monkeys evaluated the different choice options. Activity within Area 12o, in contrast, more closely represented reward probability and whether reward was received on a given trial. Orbitofrontal Area 11m/l contained more specific representations of the quality of the outcome that could be earned later on. We also found that reward delivery encoding was highly distributed across all VFC subdivisions, while the properties of the reward, such as its flavor, were more strongly represented in Areas 11m/l and 13m. Taken together, our work reveals the diversity of encoding within the various anatomically distinct subdivisions of VFC in primates.
Should basic translation techniques be included into office administration studyprograms in Costa Rica?
Authors: Sepúlveda Aguilar Izabella
Published: July 2024

The continuous flourishing of national and international companies in Costa Rica has impacted the way office administrators carry out their daily tasks and have also experienced transformations in their workplace. The latter also means that those who carry out these activities need to learn new techniques, computer packages use, languages, and other skills to perform their jobs. In recent decades, the tasks of this branch have been many; however, now that many companies have offices or contact with people in English-speaking countries, it is time to face this change when doing business, as a country. And this is why the author proposes to begin including skills such as basic translation techniques in the study programs of this major in Costa Rica. This would benefit workers, companies, and the country in general. This is why this article focuses on the need to include and improve areas such as basic translation techniques in office administration study programs in Costa Rica. In addition to giving a recommendation, in case these techniques cannot be included to these programs, another option would be teaching a course in administrative translation.