bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical Depictions, Archaeological Practices, and the Construct of Cultural Heritage in Commercial Video Games: The Role of These Games in Raising Awareness
Authors: DaCosta Boaventura
Published: August 2024

Concerns regarding the historical accuracy, archaeological practices, and representation of cultural heritage (CH) in commercial video games (VGs) have fueled unending debates about their educational value. However, beyond offering interactive and engaging narratives, it is argued that these games play a vital role in CH. This work delves into the complexities inherent in representing history, archaeology, and CH within commercial VGs. It examines the portrayal of CH as a construct within these games, underscores the importance of collaborative efforts – between game developers, heritage professionals, and members of the communities represented – in their development, and highlights instances where commercial VGs can foster CH awareness. While many commercial VGs touch upon history and archaeology or embody diverse cultures as the platform for their narratives, the focus is placed on Shadow of the Tomb Raider to illustrate the many points found in this work because the game is said to ethically come close to representing the effects of archaeology on local populations and descendants of ancient people. The aim is to catalyze discussions among educators, researchers, game developers, heritage experts, and other stakeholders about the role of commercial VGs in enhancing learning and promoting consciousness about matters vital to cultural identities.
Quantification of forming-induced damage in case-hardening steel AISI 5115 by advanced SEM methods
Authors: Lingnau L. A. , Heermant J. , Otto J. L. , Donnerbauer K. , Barrientos M. Macias , Walther F.
Published: August 2024

As climate change and resource scarcity intensify, the need for energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and resource conservation grows. Forming technology offers significant potential for light weighting, cost and resource efficiency. However, current component design often neglects forming-related damage, such as voids, focusing primarily on mechanical properties and safety factors. Integrating knowledge of these voids into the design process can improve efficiency and increase light weighting potential. Advanced scanning electron methods, such as electron contrast channeling imaging, evaluated forming-induced damage and correlated it with fatigue properties. Crack initiation occurred mainly near manganese sulfide inclusions or near-surface voids, influencing crack propagation. Analyzing void distribution using advanced secondary electron methods enabled the development of a 3D volume model.
Hydrogel for slow-release drug delivery in wound treatment
Authors: Ma Bei , Liu Pan , Zhang Yaofeng , Tang Lijun , Zhao Zhengyang , Ding Ze , Wang Tianyang , Dong Tianzhen , Chen Hongwei , Liu Junfeng
Published: August 2024

When skin comes into direct contact with the outside environment, it becomes extremely prone to injury and external factors can make wounds difficult to heal. Traditional medical dressings often cause secondary injury and are poorly resistant to infection. Hydrogels offer a promising alternative to overcome these difficulties. In this study, chitosan (CS)/gelatin (GEL)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels were developed by chemical cross-linking and loaded with the drug kitasamycin (KM) for testing. The hydrogels’ in vitro drug release and wound-healing properties were assessed. For 48 h, the drug release from the hydrogel in vitro persisted, which was significantly longer than the release time of the KM solution. Antimicrobial activity tests showed that the loaded KM hydrogel maintained its bacteriostatic ability at the same concentration as the KM solution, and during in vitro bacteriostatic inhibition, the duration of bacteriostatic inhibition of the KM hydrogel was significantly prolonged compared to that of the KM solution. This confirms the controlled release capability of the hydrogel. In addition, the hydrogel reduced the wound size in mice by 96 % and histopathological tests showed complete re-epithelialization of the wound. The prepared hydrogels successfully demonstrated their potential ability to control drug release and promote skin wound healing.
Gangsta-Rap als soziales Spiel
Authors: Bock Katharina
Published: August 2024

Dieser Beitrag bestimmt Gangsta-Rap als ein soziales Spiel, dem eine spezifische Sinnwelt zugrunde liegt – eine Welt, die von eigen(sinnig)en Sprach- und Verhaltensweisen sowie vielfältigen, zugleich bewussten und unbewussten Zielen und Bedürfnissen geprägt ist und dabei Wirkungen erzielt, die von den Spielenden teilweise selbst nicht überblickt werden. Dafür wird ethnographisches Datenmaterial präsentiert, das im Rahmen einer Studie mit jungen Szene-Insidern gewonnen wurde, die Gangsta-Rap nicht nur gerne hören, sondern diesen auch selbst produzieren. Im Rahmen eines ausführlichen ethnographischen Berichts, der die Wissensbestände, Bedeutungen und Regeln der Gangsta-Rap-Produktionen zugrundeliegenden Sinnwelt entfaltet, gibt der Beitrag detaillierte empirische Einblicke in Perspektiven, die in der sozialwissenschaftlichen Auseinandersetzung mit dem Genre und dessen Anhänger*innenschaft bislang zu kurz kommen.
High-Temperature Tensile Behavior of Structural Steel Grades with Varying Manganese Contents
Authors: Mohapatra J. N. , Dabbiru Satish Kumar , Balachandran G.
Published: August 2024

Three low-carbon (∼0.1 wt.% carbon) grades of structural steel with varying manganese content (0.75–1.5 wt.%) with ferrite-pearlite microstructure were used for the study. The 1.5 % manganese steel is a microalloyed steel with vanadium, niobium, and titanium content, which is strengthened by interphase precipitates. The steels were tensile tested at room temperature and in the temperature range between 200°C–700°C, at 100°C intervals. The elevated temperature flow strengths of the steels studied show higher strength values for the higher manganese steel. It was found that the manganese enhanced the strength at all ranges of test temperatures. The retention factor of the conventional structural steels was less than or equal to 0.50 against 0.66 for a fire-resistant steel grade. The study shows that the addition of elements such as chromium, molybdenum is required to achieve a higher retention factor to fulfill the requirement of fire resistance characteristics.
Ethnomathematics Identification in West Sumatra Rantak Dance Performances
Authors: Yusnizar Yusnizar , Yahfizham Yahfizham
Published: August 2024

The diversity of traditional dance performances in Indonesia showcases the country's rich cultural heritage. The art of Rantak dance from West Sumatra, Indonesia, is one such cultural treasure that exhibits connections with ethnomathematics. This research aims to explore the relationship between culture and mathematics education in schools by identifying aspects of the Rantak dance. The research method employed was qualitative descriptive using an ethnographic approach. Data analysis techniques follow Miles and Huberman's approach, involving data reduction, data display, and drawing conclusions. The findings of this research reveal a significant correlation between the cultural art of Rantak dance from West Sumatra and mathematics. This connection is observed in the floor patterns that form geometric shapes such as triangles and circles. Additionally, the formation of straight lines at 180° is evident within the dance. The musical instruments accompanying the dance also feature mathematical elements, such as the cylindrical shape of the "gandang," resembling a solid geometric figure. This research underscores the cultural ties of the Rantak dance with mathematics and highlights its potential as a foundation for culturally-based mathematics education.
Mathematical Creative Thinking Ability of the Seventh Grade Students in Terms of Learning Styles to the Preview-Question-Read-Reflect-Recite-Review (PQ4R) Learning
Authors: Istiqomah Fiatun , Rochmad Rochmad , Mulyono Mulyono
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study are: (1) to know the effectiveness of PQ4R learning model in improving the creative thinking skills of the learners; (2) to know the classifications of the learners based on the levels of creative thinking skills; and (3) to describe the misconception which hampers the creative thinking skills at low level in  from the learning styles of the learners. The population in this study is the seventh grade students of SMP N 21 Semarang. The method in this study is mixed method research. Quantitative data analysis uses t-test, z-test, and normalized gain test. Analysis of qualitative data using data reduction stages, data presentation, and conclusions. The results show: (1) PQ4R learning model is effective in improving the creative thinking ability of the learners; (2) the classifications of the learners based on the levels of creative thinking ability which have variations the are many of the learners who are different in each level; and (3) misconception which hampers the creative thinking skills at low level with the learning styles: (a) visual meets four misconception indicators, (b) auditorial meets three misconception indicators, and (c) kinesthetic meets six misconception indicators.
The mathematical problem solving ability of student on learning with Thinking Aloud Pair Problem Solving (TAPPS) model in term of student learning style
Authors: Mashuri Mashuri , Nitoviani Nindy Dwi , Hendikawati Putriaji
Published: August 2024

The purposes of this research were to find out the mathematical problem solving ability on learning with TAPPS model and to find out how the description of mathematical problem solving ability on TAPPS model in terms of learning style. This mixed methods research used concurrent embedded design. The population in this research was eighth-grade students of SMP N 4 Kudus in the academic year of 2016/2017. The sample was chosen by using random sampling technique, it obtained that VIIIA as experimental class and VIIIB as control class. The results of the research showed that (1) the mathematical problem solving ability on learning with TAPPS model achieved classical mastery, (2) the mathematical problem solving ability on learning with TAPPS model was better than expository model, (3) the students' ability in mathematical problem solving with a visual learning style had good category at the stage of devising a plan and the other stage had enough category, otherwise students with an auditorial learning style had enough category at the stage of looking back and another stage had good category, and students with a kinesthetic learning style had good category at the stage of understanding the problem and the other stage had enough category and less category.
The effectiveness of problem based learning with authentic assessment towards studentsâ€™ mathematical problem solving ability at 11th grade of Tran Nhan Tong Senior High School in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Mawarti Sela , Masrukan Masrukan , Asikin Mohammad
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this research was to find out whether Problem Based Learning (PBL) learning with authentic assessment affects the students' mathematical problem solving ability. The method of this research was quantitative research method. Its population was 11th grade of Tran Nhan Tong Senior High School Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in academic year 2017/2018. By using the cluster random sampling, class 11A1 was selected as a control class that gained conventional learning in Vietnam, class 11A2 as an experiment class 1 that obtained PBL learning with authentic assessment, and class 11A3 as experiment 2 class that obtained PBL learning. The data collection techniques were documentation and test method. The result of the research showed that the result of mathematical problem solving test at the experiment class 1 successfully reached classical completeness more than or equal to 75% of the students in the class, and studentsâ€™ mathematical problem solving ability at the experiment class 1 was better than at the experiment class 2, while studentsâ€™ mathematical problem solving ability at the experiment class 2 was better than at the control class.
Mathematical creative thinking ability based on studentsâ€™ characteristics of thinking style through selective problem solving learning model with ethnomatematics nuanced
Authors: Zaenuri Zaenuri , Nastiti Putri Ambar , Suhito Suhito
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Selective Problem Solving (SPS) model with ethnomatematics nuances on students' mathematical creative thinking abilities and describe mathematical creative thinking abilities based on students' characteristics of thinking style by applying Selective Problem Solving model with ethnomatematics nuances. The study population were VII grade students one of Junior High School in Magelang in the academic year of 2017/2018. The study sample were students of class VII B with Selective Problem Solving learning model with ethnomatematics nuances and students of class VII G with Problem Based Learning (PBL) model. They were chosen through cluster random sampling technique. Quantitative data were analyzed using normality, homogeneity, proportion test, independent sample t-test, and paired sample t-test. Qualitative data were analyzed using data validation, data transcript, reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. The results showed that students 'mathematical creative thinking ability in Selective Problem Solving learning model with ethnomatematics nuances has not yet reached classical completeness, students' mathematical creative thinking ability in Selective Problem Solving learning model with ethnomatematics nuances was better than students' mathematical creative thinking ability in Problem Based Learning (PBL) model, there were differences of students interest on local culture before and after learning in Selective Problem Solving learning model with ethnomatematics nuances, sequential concrete thinking type, namely subjects fulfilled the indicator of fluency and the indicator of flexibility and were enough in fulfilling the indicator of novelty, sequential abstract thinking type showed that subjects fulfilled the indicator of fluency and less fulfilled the indicator of flexibility and novelty, random abstract thinking type revealed that subjects less fulfilled the indicator of fluency and not fulfill the indicator of  flexibility and novelty, and random concrete thinking type showed that subjects less fulfilled the indicator of fluency and flexibility and did not fulfill the  indicator of novelty.
Analysis of the ability to interpreting information in algebraic critical thinking
Authors: Agoestanto Arief , Sukestiyarno YL , Isnarto Isnarto , Rochmad Rochmad
Published: August 2024

This research aimed to describe the ability to interpret the information in the student's algebraic critical thinking. The type of research is a mixture of quantitative and qualitative. Methods of data collection are tests and interviews. The results of the algebraic critical thinking test referring to Watson-Glaser were analyzed descriptively quantitatively, then 6 subjects were selected each of 2 subjects including the upper, middle, and lower groups for interviews. Triangulation was carried out using 2 different subjects for each level and comparison of test results and interview results. The results of this research indicate the average Algebraic Critical Thinking ability of 31 students was 50.14 and the standard deviation was 9.09, with the lowest average inference ability was 32.64, and the highest average argument was 62.63;  the correlation coefficient of algebraic critical thinking skills with indicators of inference, recognition assumptions, deductions, interpretations, evaluations of arguments, each of which amounted to 0.3264, 0.5126, 0.5417, 0.4602, 0.6263; and that the upper group subjects were able to interpret information in the medium category, the middle group subjects were able to interpret information in the medium category, and the lower group subjects were able to interpret the information in the low category.
Structure and optical characteristics of mercury-modified Se100-xAsx amorphous films
Authors: Rubish V.M. , Pop M.M. , Pisak R.P. , Durkot M.O. , Solomon A.M. , Rubish V.V. , Tyagur Yu.I. , Mykaylo O.M. , Kaynts D.I. , Dzumedzey R.O. , Boryk V.V. , Mateik G.D.
Published: August 2024

The structure and optical characteristics (transmission spectra and dispersion of the refraction index) of nominally pure and mercury-modified amorphous Se100-xAsx films (x = 0, 3, 5, 7, 9) were studied. It was ascertained that nominally pure films are X-ray amorphous. Exposure of the films in mercury vapor leads to the formation of HgSe crystalline inclusions in their near-surface layers. The width of the pseudo-forbidden gap Eg and the refraction indices n2, n2' and n3 of both nominally pure (n2) and those exposed to mercury vapor (n2' and n3) films were determined. Significant changes in the n2' and n3 values of amorphous films are caused by structural transformations that occur in them during modification.
Strategic Visions, Volume 23, No. 2 (Spring 2024)
Authors: Johnson Joseph
Published: August 2024

The full spring 2024 edition of Strategic Visions.
Survival and Resistance: A Zine Study with Young Women and Femmes Experiencing Housing Injustice in Canadian Cities
Authors: Santos Dunn Nicole , Ansloos Jeffrey
Published: August 2024

Housing injustice is a serious public health issue among young women and femmes (aged 18-24) in Canada but the research available on this topic seldom centres the voices of people with lived and living experience. This population is marginally visible in the shelter systems; instead their experiences may be described as “hidden homelessness”. This housing typology refers to situations where someone seeks shelter in ways like couch-surfing, car sleeping, or other short-term accommodations that are not typically recognized as responding to housing injustice. Drawing from a methodology of social constructionism, this paper reviews findings from an arts-based inquiry that sought to answer the research question, “what are the survival and resistance strategies that young women and femmes experiencing housing injustice use to support their wellness and engage with life?” Using reflexive thematic analysis, a zine was created and analyzed to reveal five themes: 1). Affective and Psychological Strategies of Resistance; 2). Survival Strategies and Behaviours to Ensure Material Survival; 3). Felt Knowledge About Good Living; 4). Organized Abandonment and Other Normed Chaos; and, 5). Importance of Human Connection, Solidarity, and Radical Care. The strengths and limitations, along with implications for public health policy and research are discussed.
“A Community of One”: Social Support Networks and Low-income Tenants Living in Market-rental Housing
Authors: Leviten-Reid Catherine , Desjarlais-deKlerk Kristen
Published: August 2024

Social networks, and the supports they provide, are often thought to be key to the survival of those living in poverty. Rooted in a partnered research initiative on the housing experiences of tenants in greatest need, we examine the social support networks of low-income renters living in market housing, while in receipt of rent subsidies and assistance from housing workers to do so. Based on 21 interviews with tenants and service providers, we find that participants in our study have very limited informal social support, which is also confined to instrumental rather than emotional dimensions. Many deliberately did not engage with those with whom they once socialized or their neighbours, and identified spatial aspects of their housing that facilitated removal from harmful networks. However, it is also clear that individuals in our study were not without ties. Despite having limited, and also actively limiting, informal ties, participants sought out and received extensive material and emotional support from non-profit organizations including harm reduction, youth and women’s centres, as well as from housing workers. Results amplify the role of these organizations beyond material survival; implications include ensuring tenants are able to access the organizations on which they rely, and adequately resourcing non-profits.
The Tenant Class by Ricardo Tranjan. Between the Lines, 2023.
Authors: Buhler Sarah
Published: August 2024

This book is a short yet powerful contribution to the literature on housing in Canada. It will be of great interest to anyone seeking a highly readable and forceful critique of Canada’s inequitable housing markets as well as a prescription for an alternate approach.Tranjan is an analyst for the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, an organization that seeks to bring progressive research and analysis into Canadian policy debates.
Acknowledgements
Authors: Journal Engaged Scholar
Published: August 2024

The quality of our Journal depends on scholarly collaboration between the two groups of scholars, the authors and the anonymous peer-reviewers of their work. We thank both groups for their interest in and support of our Journal. We are especially grateful to the peer-reviewers listed below, who reviewed submissions to the current issue (Volume 10 Issue 2), for their time and commitment to excellent scholarship.
Inestabilidad patelofemoral en niños y adolescentes: revisión de conceptos actuales
Authors: Masquijo Julio Javier , Carabajal Mattar Miguel
Published: August 2024

La inestabilidad patelofemoral es un trastorno frecuente de la rodilla en el paciente esqueléticamente inmaduro. Este cuadro plantea diversos desafíos en esta población que requieren una comprensión de la anatomía y la biomecánica para formular un plan de tratamiento que prevenga la reluxación y permita el regreso a las actividades. En esta revisión, se analizan las distintas formas de presentación y las alternativas terapéuticas, y se ofrece una guía práctica para el manejo integral de esta compleja condición clínica.
High flexural modulus of polilactide composites for 3D printing technology using multifunctional octaspherosilicates
Authors: Sztorch Bogna , Głowacka Julia , Brząkalski Dariusz , Romanczuk-Ruszuk Eliza , Marciniec Bogdan , Przekop Robert E.
Published: August 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing research interest focused on employing organosilicon compounds, including silsesquioxanes, as modifiers for different polymers. This work describes the methodology for obtaining a new nanocomposite using functionalized spherosilicates, which belong to the general group of silsesquioxane compounds. These modifiers are used as additives to polylactide to improve its properties in the context of the additive technology fused deposition modeling/fuse fabrication filament. The developed materials were characterized by better rheology compared to neat PLA. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis of the additives confirmed their reactive nature. Based on water contact angle tests, it was observed that up to 1.5% of the load, none of the additives influenced the wetting of the material surface. Microscopic images revealed visible agglomerations for the OSS-6MA-2TMOS system, while in samples with a lower share of methacrylic groups, very good dispersion of the additive in the matrix was observed. Also, the microscopic observations showed better melting of the composite layers containing additives in the 3D printing process, combined with the appropriate printing parameters, can ultimately produce more robust objects with fewer voids and discontinuities. The addition also resulted in an increase in mechanical parameters, mainly in terms of bending strength and impact strength.

Graphical abstract
EXPANSION OF THE RANGE OF YEAST-FREE BAKERY PRODUCTS MADE USING FERMENTED DAIRY PRODUCTS
Authors: Zabroda А. , Godunko Ie. , Bilyk О. , Bondarenko Yu.
Published: August 2024

Traditionally, biological methods are used to leaven dough semi-finished products in the production of bakery products. However, today consumers are increasingly including yeast-free bakery products in their diet. Given the growing demand for yeastfree bakery products, it is advisable to expand the range of products in this category. To ensure the formation of a developed crumb in yeast-free bakery products, chemical leavening agents are used in their production. Yeast-free bakery products were made using various fermented dairy products: ayran (2,0% fat), kefir (2,5% fat), bifidoyogurt (1,5% fat), and ryazhenka (4,0% fat). To determine the most effective fermented dairy product for the production of high-quality yeast-free bakery products, trial baking was conducted. Experimental dough samples were kneaded using two types of chemical leavening agents - sodium bicarbonate and ammonium carbonate. The dough was prepared using the straight dough method. The duration of dough resting after kneading was 20-30 minutes. The dough pieces were shaped into "okrayets" (small loaves): the dough was rolled to a thickness of 1,5 cm and the dough pieces were cut out with a cutter, placed on a sheet, and baked in a rack oven at 200-240°C for 16-18 minutes. The research results established that it is advisable to use ryazhenka in the production of yeast-free bakery products using fermented dairy products. At the same time, sodium bicarbonate should be included in the recipe to leaven the crumb. Such a product had the highest comprehensive quality index. Based on organoleptic and microbiological indicators, the product was found to have a shelf life of no more than 48 hours. To improve the taste and aromatic properties of the product, 3% malted barley extract and 4% white crystalline sugar were included in its composition. The developed yeast-free okrayets with ryazhenka was characterized by a higher content of bisulfitebinding substances, indicating an improved aroma of the product and a darker color of the crust and crumb. The developed product meets the body's needs for proteins by 31,5%, fats by 10,5%, carbohydrates by 49,0%, and dietary fiber by 18,3%.
Visuomenė ir sovietų kariuomenė Lietuvoje 1939–1940 metais. Politinis ir socialinis aspektai
Authors: Svarauskas Artūras
Published: August 2024

Straipsnyje analizuojamas sovietų karinių įgulų, įkurdintų Lietuvoje 1939 m. spalio 10 d., Lietuvos ir SSRS savitarpio pagalbos sutartimi tiesioginis ir netiesioginis poveikis Lietuvos visuomenei 1939–1940 m. Teigiama, kad oficiali (vieša) ir neoficiali (privati) nuostata Raudonosios armijos bazių Lietuvoje klausimu buvo skirtinga. Giluminį suvokimą apie įgulų potencialią grėsmę valstybės suverenitetui neigė oficialūs Lietuvos vyriausybės pranešimai. Dėl šios ir kitų straipsnyje įvardytų aplinkybių didžioji Lietuvos gyventojų dalis sovietų karinių įgulų dislokavimo faktą Lietuvoje priėmė kaip nepageidaujamą, tačiau Lietuvos ir SSRS dvišalių santykių išdavos aplinkybę. Straipsnyje tiriamos formalaus ir neformalaus civilių gyventojų bendravimo ir santykių su sovietų karinėse įgulose dislokuotais kariais praktikos, kurios turėjo reikšmingų pasekmių visuomenei suvokiant 1940 m. birželį–liepą vykusius politinius procesus Lietuvoje.
Impact of Cooking Methods on Sensory Evaluation and Nutritional Properties of Caterpillar Medicinal Mushroom Cordyceps militaris (Ascomycetes)
Authors: Wang Shuo , Zeng Ming-Hui , Mao Yue-Ping , Luo Ting-Ting , Xu Hong-Yun , Wang Kun , Li Yun-Xia , Li Yi , Chen Li-Hua , Wu Wei-Jie
Published: August 2024

This study addresses the alterations in nutrients [calcium, iron, and vitamins C and E (VC and VE, respectively)] and cordycepin content, alongside its sensory appeal in Cordyceps militaris, subjected to five distinct cooking methods: boiling, steaming, roasting, microwaving, and deep-frying. A comparative analysis showed the notable decline in nutrient content across most cooking methods excluding deep-frying. In notable contrast, the content of VE was substantially amplified during deep-frying, thereby emphasizing its value in preserving nutrients. However, an exception was noted wherein VE content remained essentially unchanged in the microwaved samples. Notably, the cordycepin content in boiled C. militaris reduced significantly, contrastingly, an elevation in this content was recorded for steamed, microwaved, or deep-fried samples, with roasting producing a stable content comparable to raw samples. The principal component analysis further discerned the iron, VC, and cordycepin as primary influencers on raw and roasted C. militaris, signifying superior retention during roasting, whereas deep-fried samples were predominantly affected by the calcium and VE content. Observation on nutrient losses revealed that boiling, steaming, and microwaving were less efficacious, compared with roasting and deep-frying. Sensory evaluations inductively favored steaming as synonymous with the finest culinary attribute, whereas deep-frying ranked least favorably on the sensory scale. Consequently, the present study offers refined dietary advice for the consumption of C. militaris catered to specific demographic groups, deepening understanding of the effects of various culinary practices on its overall nutrient profile and organoleptic properties.
Mechanical properties and fracture phenomena in 3D-printed helical cementitious architected materials under compression
Authors: Moini Reza , Rodriguez Fabian , Olek Jan , Youngblood Jeffrey P. , Zavattieri Pablo D.
Published: August 2024

The mechanical response and fracture behavior of two architected 3D-printed hardened cement paste (hcp) elements, ‘lamellar’ and ‘Bouligand’, were investigated under uniaxial compression. A lab-based X-ray microscope was used to characterize the post-fracture crack pattern. The mechanical properties and crack patterns were analyzed and compared to cast hcp. The role of materials architecture and 3D-printing-induced weak interfaces on the mechanical properties and fracture behavior are discussed. The pore architecture that inadvertently forms in the design of solid architected materials dictated the overall mechanical response and fracture behaviors in both 3D-printed architected materials. While no specific crack pattern or microcracking was observed in the cast element, lamellar architecture demonstrated a crack pattern following weak vertical interfaces. Bouligand architectures, on the other hand, exhibited a helical crack pattern with distributed interfacial microcracking aligned with the helical orientation of filaments. As a result, the bouligand architected elements showed a significant 40% increase in work-of-failure compared to cast counterparts. The enhanced energy absorption was obtained without sacrificing the strength and was attributed to higher fractured surface and microcracking, both of which follow the weak helical interfaces.
Approximate upper- and lower-bound analyses of translational rainfall-induced landslides in curvilinear hillslopes
Authors: Zhang Longfei , Zhang Wangcheng , Wang Yang , Osman Ashraf
Published: August 2024

Increased frequency of rainfall-induced landslides (RILs) with global climate change is expected to be a huge challenge. Previous studies have focused on RILs encompassing the examination of rotational failure mechanisms and straightforward slope geometries, notably those pertaining to planar or cutting slopes. However, instability issues of curvilinear hillslopes have received less attention, although they are of great significance for early warning landslides in more common natural slopes. This study presents a progressive failure mechanism for curvilinear hillslopes in which the local failure initiates at the steepest zone and gradually extends to upslope/downslope flat regions. By means of upper- and lower-bound analyses, approximate criteria for the onset of a translational landslide with respect to the critical wetting front depth and the failure positions are derived. Unlike traditional theories, upper- and lower-bound analyses are unaffected by slope topology, self-weight of soil and cohesion effects. By conducting a case study at the end of the study, the suggested criteria are found to exhibit notable merits in their straightforward implementation for evaluating the stability of curvilinear natural slopes under varying precipitation patterns.
Copyright and Closed Captioning in Higher Education
Authors: Lohmann Sam
Published: August 2024

There are many videos that could be used for instruction and research but are inaccessible to those who need closed captions. Academic libraries could play an important role in supporting captioning, but they are hampered by misinformation and misunderstanding about copyright law and unnecessary fear of repercussions. With a better understanding of the current state of the law and how documented practices and community norms have the power to shift the law over time, library workers can be empowered to support captioning, share resources and workflows, and document their activity openly, in collaboration with instructors and with disability services and information technology offices. This article reviews current literature on closed captioning, copyright law, disability law, and accessibility in higher education to illuminate the possibilities for library workers to support video captioning for accessibility purposes, even in cases where permission cannot be obtained from the copyright holder. The research shows an unequivocal fair use protection for educational captioning, a right that is best protected when it is actively asserted and used.
Sorption, diffusion characteristics and electrical conductivity of anion-exchange membranes in lactic acid and sodium chloride solu-tions
Authors: Kozaderova Olga A.
Published: August 2024

Membrane technologies, including processes involving ion-exchange membranes, can be used at certain stages during the production of lactic acid from whey. In this study, a comparative analysis of the sorption characteristics, diffusion permeability and electrical conductivity of strong basic anion exchange membranes with quaternary ammonium groups - MA-41 (Shchekinoazot, Russia) and Ralex AM(H)-PP (Mega, Czech Republic) in individual aqueous lactic acid and sodium chloride solutions was performed over a wide range of concentrations. For the MA-41 membrane, which has larger ion exchanger particles inside the composite, in comparison with Ralex AM(H)-PP, higher non-exchange sorption of lactic acid and higher diffusion fluxes of both lactic acid and sodium chloride were observed. This may be due to: a greater uneven distribution of a fixed charge throughout the membrane volume due to a lower degree of dispersion of the ion exchanger and, as a consequence, a smaller charged surface area of dispersed particles inside the membrane (which led to a less effective Donnan exclusion of co-ions from the membrane phase); with the growth of macropores on the surface of the sample. The electrical conductivity of samples of anion-exchange membranes in solutions of lactic acid and sodium chloride was measured. For membranes in a mineral salt solution, using a three-wire and microheterogeneous conductivity model, the contribution of conductivity channels (mixed gel-solution channel, gel phase) to the overall electrical conductivity of the system was calculated. The presence of a wider gel-solution conduction channel for Ralex AM(H)-PP in combination with comparable values of the proportion of gel and intergel phases in MA-41 and Ralex AM(H)-PP samples served as indirect confirmation of the influence of the degree of dispersion of the ion exchanger included in the composition of heterogeneous samples, on the transport characteristics of membranes.
Mouse Tissue mtDNA Copy Number Protocol v1
Authors: Hecke Morais Livia , Devine Jack
Published: August 2024

Mouse Tissue mtDNA Copy Number Protocol developed in the Picard lab at Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Robert N Butler Columbia Aging Center, ColumbiaUniversity Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
Analysis of ethylene glycol and 1,4-butanediol by HPLC-RID v1
Authors: M. Alt Hannah , F. Benson Alexander , J. Haugen Stefan , A. Ingraham Morgan , E. Michener William , P. Woodworth Sean , J. Ramirez Kelsey , T. Beckham Gregg
Published: August 2024

An analytical method was developed using high performance liquid chromatography with refractive index detection (HPLC-RID) to quantify the concentration of ethylene glycol and 1,4-butanediol in aqueous samples. This list is non-exhaustive as this isocratic method with an acid modified mobile phase is compatible with analysis of many alcohols, small acids, and sugars. This method utilizes a Bio-Rad Aminex HPX-87H Ion Exclusion Column to provide chromatographic separation.
Mitochondrial Enzyme Activities Protocol v1
Authors: Devine Jack
Published: August 2024

Mitochondrial enzymatic activity assays developed in the Picard lab at Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, Robert N Butler Columbia Aging Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
Immunofluorescence protocol for FFPE human post-mortem brain sections to detect alpha-synuclein and tau pathology v2
Authors: Suteja Felicia , Li Hongyun , Fu YuHong
Published: August 2024

This protocol details the method for preparing and staining human formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded post mortem brain tissue to detect alpha-synuclein and tau pathology using immunofluorescence.
USDA LTAR Common Experiment measurement: Discharge from artificial subsurface drains v1
Authors: W. Feyereisen Gary , Baffaut Claire
Published: August 2024

Subsurface drain discharge, sometimes simply referred to as drainage, is a process by which water is removed from a soil profile or area (ASABE, 2015). On agricultural lands with intermittent high-water tables due to precipitation or melting snow, water is removed using artificial (generally referred to as tile) drains or ditches to allow timely field operations and protect growing crops from being waterlogged. This discussion is limited to artificial subsurface (tile) drain discharge. In agricultural regions where crop production requires artificial subsurface drainage, drain discharge can represent a substantial portion of the annual water budget. Thus, measuring this water flow is important in understanding the water use of crops and potential impacts on downstream water movement. The measurement of subsurface drain discharge, together with a measurement of sediment and water pollutants, provides an assessment of the losses of these constituents from agriculture to the environment. Tracking them over time quantifies the beneficial effects of improved agricultural practices.
Test 1 - two-day protocol v1
Authors: Gasque Gabriel
Published: August 2024

Abstract here for second protocol
Cytopathology Quantification in iPSCs with Harmony Software v1
Authors: Liu Yang , Chedid Jessica , Fu YuHong , Halliday Glenda
Published: August 2024

The following protocol details microscopy analysis of cortical and midbrain dopaminergic differentiated iPSC's. Quantification of tau, phosphorylated tau, p62, alpha synuclein and phosphorylated alpha synuclein pathology is detailed using Harmony software (Perkin Elmer Health Sciences, now Revvity)
Screening for antibacterial activity of Cissampelos pareira L. root extract: an in-vitro study
Authors: Girma Abayeneh
Published: August 2024

BackgroundThe recurrence of antibacterial infections after antibiotic treatment necessitates the investigation of alternative therapies against uropathogens. Cissampelos pareira is an Ethiopian medicinal plant that has been used for centuries by traditional healers to treat various diseases. The plant is selected on the basis of its traditional use in treating urinary tract infections by the local community. The objective of this study was to determine traditionally used anti-uropathogenic properties of C. pareira root extracts.
Methods C. pareira plant roots collected from Pawe Woreda were shade-dried, powdered, and extracted using chloroform, hexane, acetone, methanol, and ethanol, respectively. The antibacterial activities with different concentrations of the crude extracts were determined using the disc diffusion assay. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the crude extracts were determined using a two-fold broth dilution method.
ResultsThe antibacterial activities of the root extracts against tested organisms as shown by inhibition zone diameters ranged from 7.0±0.1 to 20.8±1.0 mm. The highest inhibition was recorded from the ethanol extract while the lowest was from the chloroform extract.  The MIC and MBC values ranged from 12.5 to 50 µg/mL and 25 to 100 µg/mL, respectively. Ethanolic and methanolic C. pareira root extracts showed the presence of antibacterial compounds (alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids and steroids).
ConclusionThis study showed that C. pareira root serves as a potential source for developing new antibacterial drugs against bacteriuria. However, nontoxicity evaluation is recommended for the use of herbals as therapeutic agents in pharmacy.
Analysis of the knowledge landscape of three-dimensional bioprinting in Latin America
Authors: Rodríguez-Salvador Marisela , Villarreal-Garza Diego , Álvarez Mario Moisés , Santiago Grissel Trujillo-de
Published: August 2024

Bioprinting, the printing of living cells using polymeric matrixes (mainly hydrogels), has attracted great attention among science and technology circles. North America has been one of the sources of bioprinting-related technology in recent years. As a natural consequence of geography, high-quality research in the area of bioprinting has started to permeate Latin America. Here, we describe and analyze the knowledge landscape of bioprinting in Latin America using a competitive technology intelligence methodology. Our analysis provides relevant information, such as the scientific publication trends in Latin America and the scientific networks among research groups in Latin America and the world.
Results of analysis of the sarcoidosis registry of the Republic of Tatarstan
Authors: Vizel A. A. , Avdeev S. N. , Vizel I. Yu. , Shakirova G. R. , Kudryavtseva E. Z. , Shaymuratov R. I. , Tikhonov A. V. , Abashev A. R. , Vizel L. A.
Published: August 2024

Sarcoidosis is a systemic epithelioid cell granulomatosis of unknown origin. The specialized commission on pulmonology of the Russian Ministry of Health recommended creating a register for sarcoidosis in the beginning of 2023. The aim of the study was to assess the main characteristics of newly identified patients with sarcoidosis according to the register created in the Republic of Tatarstan as a pilot project. Methods. Information on the newly identified patients was collected from 1996 to 2023. Statistical processing of 3,037 cases of sarcoidosis was carried out using the SPSS-18 program (IBM, USA). The p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. From 1 967 to 2 023, 3,037 cases of sarcoidosis were entered in the registry, including 2 094 women (68.9%) and 943 men (31.1%). The median age was 45 (34; 55) years, with 36 – 55 years of age being associated with the highest incidence. The men were much younger than the women. There was an increase in detection in 2017 (161 patients) with a subsequent decrease during the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery in subsequent years. 18 (0.6%) patients had X-ray stage 0, 1,162 (38.3 %) – stage I, 1,527 (50.3%) – stage II, 302 (9.0%) – stage III, and 28 (0.9%) – stage IV. Löfgren’s syndrome was present in 387 (12.7%) patients, and extrapulmonary manifestations were found in 576 patients (19.0%). Identification rate in different regions of Tatarstan correlated with the size of the population. Overall, 44.7% patients had biopsy results, along with 47.3% before COVID-19 pandemic and 72.5% after the pandemic. After identification, a combination of pentoxifylline with vitamin E was prescribed in 32.9%, and vitamin E alone in 30.3%. Systemic corticosteroids were prescribed in 17.5%, and active monitoring without treatment was recommended in 15.8% cases. Postponing of immunosuppression was compliant with the clinical guidelines in Tatarstan. Conclusion. Analysis of data from the sarcoidosis register of the Republic of Tatarstan revealed an increase in detection before the COVID-19 pandemic, a decrease during the pandemic, and a resumption of growth together with an increase in biopsies afterwards. Management of patients after the diagnosis was characterized by the predominant active surveillance and immunosuppression strictly according to the therapeutic indications.
Misdiagnosis of interstitial lung diseases according to the register of Irkutsk
Authors: Trofimenko I. N. , Nashatyreva M. S. , Chernyak B. A.
Published: August 2024

The course of interstitial lung diseases (ILD) is characterized by high variability. The extent and heterogeneity of ILDs inevitably leads to diagnostic difficulties. The aim of the study was to analyze misdiagnosis of ILD in patients included in the Irkutsk register. Methods. 270 patients aged 18 – 88 years with various ILDs were followed in the register. The diagnosis of ILD was based on clinical, laboratory, functional, radiological (high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT)) and, if necessary, histological findings. All diagnoses were discussed by a multidisciplinary team. Results. The time from the first signs of interstitial lesions to the diagnosis of ILD varied from several months to several years (0 – 22 years), with a median of 12 (3; 36) months. Only half of the 155 (57.4%) patients with ILD were diagnosed within one year from the first symptoms. Misdiagnoses in patients with respiratory symptoms and/or HRCT changes prior to ILD verification included various forms of pneumonia (recurrent, prolonged course) in 24.4%, pneumosclerosis in 12.6%, obstructive lung disease in 12.6%, and tuberculosis in 10.7%. The main causes of misdiagnosis were underestimation or misinterpretation of clinical, radiological and functional data. Late diagnosis is one of the factors determining progressive pulmonary fibrosis: time to diagnosis ≥ 12 months – odds ratio (OR) of 4.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.4 – 7.1); p < 0.001. Conclusion. To overcome the misdiagnosis of ILD, it is necessary to inform and alert general practitioners, to maximize the effectiveness of the examination of a patient with suspected ILD, and to immediately refer such a patient to a competent specialist to diagnose ILD and verify the diagnosis with a multidisciplinary team.
Practical aspects of the using levosalbutamol in adults and children: Resolution of the Council of Experts
Authors: Avdeev S. N. , Namazova-Baranova L. S. , Aisanov Z. R. , Antonov V. N. , Arkhipov V. V. , Borodulina E. A. , Vizel A. A. , Vishneva E. A. , Demko I. V. , Emelyanov A. V. , Ignatova G. L. , Kurbacheva O. M. , Leshсhenko I. V. , Nenasheva N. M.
Published: August 2024

The purpose of publishing the resolution of the Interdisciplinary Council of Experts in the fields of pulmonology, allergology, pediatrics, and clinical pharmacology was to discuss the effectiveness and safety of a new short-acting β2-adrenergic receptor agonist in the Russian Federation – levosalbutamol. The Interdisciplinary Council of Experts in the fields of pulmonology, allergology, pediatrics, and clinical pharmacology took place on March 19, 2024 in Moscow. Results. According to the research results, the following advantages of using levosalbutamol have been demonstrated: the affinity for β2-adrenergic receptors is 2 times higher compared to salbutamol; the drug affects the sensitization of β2 receptors to a lesser degree; levosalbutamol does not cause increased airway hyperresponsiveness; levosalbutamol has a more pronounced anti-inflammatory effect; greater safety for the cardiovascular system was noted. Conclusion. According to the presented data, the inclusion of levosalbutamol in clinical guidelines for asthma (age category “children, adults”) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (age category “adults”) is justified.