bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of alemtuzumab-mediated lymphocyte depletion on SIV reservoir establishment and persistence
Authors: Varco-Merth Benjamin , Chaunzwa Morgan , Duell Derick M. , Marenco Alejandra , Goodwin William , Dannay Rachel , Nekorchuk Michael , Shao Danica , Busman-Sahay Kathleen , Fennessey Christine M. , Silipino Lorna , Hull Michael , Bosche William J. , Fast Randy , Oswald Kelli , Shoemaker Rebecca , Bochart Rachele , MacAllister Rhonda , Labriola Caralyn S. , Smedley Jeremy V. , Axthelm Michael K. , Davenport Miles P. , Edlefsen Paul T. , Estes Jacob D. , Keele Brandon F. , Lifson Jeffrey D. , Lewin Sharon R. , Picker Louis J. , Okoye Afam A.
Published: August 2024

Persistence of the rebound-competent viral reservoir (RCVR) within the CD4+ T cell compartment of people living with HIV remains a major barrier to HIV cure. Here, we determined the effects of the pan-lymphocyte-depleting monoclonal antibody (mAb) alemtuzumab on the RCVR in SIVmac239-infected rhesus macaques (RM) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Alemtuzumab administered during chronic ART or at the time of ART initiation induced >95% depletion of circulating CD4+ T cells in peripheral blood and substantial CD4+ T cell depletion in lymph nodes. However, treatment was followed by proliferation and reconstitution of CD4+ T cells in blood, and despite ongoing ART, levels of cell-associated SIV DNA in blood and lymphoid tissues were not substantially different between alemtuzumab-treated and control RM after immune cell reconstitution, irrespective of the time of alemtuzumab treatment. Upon ART cessation, 19 of 22 alemtuzumab-treated RM and 13 of 13 controls rebounded with no difference in the time to rebound between treatment groups. Time to rebound and reactivation rate was associated with plasma viral loads (pVLs) at time of ART initiation, suggesting lymphocyte depletion had no durable impact on the RCVR. However, 3 alemtuzumab-treated RM that had lowest levels of pre-ART viremia, failed to rebound after ART withdrawal, in contrast to controls with similar levels of SIV replication. These observations suggest that alemtuzumab therapy has little to no ability to reduce well-established RCVRs but may facilitate RCVR destabilization when pre-ART virus levels are particularly low.
A Stool DNA-Based SDC2 Methylation Test for the Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer in an Asymptomatic, High-Risk Population: A Multicenter Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Kim Chang Woo , Kim Hyunjin , Kim Hyoung Rae , Won Daeyeon David , Nam Woo Jung , Min Byung Soh , Oh Tae Jeong , An Sungwhan , Lee Suk-Hwan
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Noninvasive stool DNA-based methylation testing has emerged as an effective strategy for the early colorectal cancer (CRC) detection. Syndecan-2 (SDC2) methylation frequently occurs in all stages of CRC; therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of a stool DNA-based SDC2 methylation test for detecting CRC in asymptomatic or high-risk CRC populations.

METHODS:

This multicenter prospective study was conducted to determine the clinical performance of the SDC2 methylation test on stool DNA using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Stool samples were collected from asymptomatic individuals before colonoscopy, and the test results were independently analyzed through comparison with colonoscopic findings and pathological outcomes as reference standards.

RESULTS:

Of the 1,124 evaluable participants, 20 had CRC, 73 had advanced adenomatous polyps (≥1.0 cm), 469 had nonadvanced adenomatous polyps (<1.0 cm), 178 had non-neoplastic polyps, and 384 had negative colonoscopy results. The stool SDC2 methylation test had a sensitivity and specificity of 95.0% and 81.5%, respectively, for detecting CRC, while the sensitivity for detecting advanced adenomatous polyps and CRC was 58.1%. The rate of adenoma detection increased with polyp size (P < 0.01), and sensitivity was not associated with CRC stage (P = 0.864).

DISCUSSION:

The stool DNA-based SDC2 methylation test attained a high sensitivity for CRC detection in an asymptomatic high-risk population. Further large-scale clinical studies are required to validate the clinical utility of this test as a population-based CRC screening tool.
Gastroprotective Effects of Curcuma zedoaria in Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcers of Experimental Rats
Authors: Sutardi Lina Noviyanti , Mustika Aulia Andi , Andriyanto Andriyanto , Handharyani Ekowati , Winarto Adi , Rahma Anisa , Nabilah Avida Shahnaz , Rahman Farah Aulia
Published: August 2024

Gastritis is one of the most common health problems of humans in the world. Gastric ulcer is mostly characterized by inflammation of the epithelial cells lining the gastric mucosa. Stomach injury may occur due to excessive secretion of stomach acid, pepsin, Helicobacter pylori, stress, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, irregular eating pattern, infection, and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This study aimed to explore the gastroprotective effects of Curcuma zedoaria infusion (CZI) on HCl/ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage in rats. A total of 16 Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: negative control (without treatment), positive control (treated with omeprazole), P1 (CZI 30%), and P2 (CZI 60%). Several endpoints were evaluated, including gastric mucosal lesions, cellular degeneration, intracellular damage, and pH value. The gastric mucosal injury and ulcer score were determined by evaluating the inflamed gastric mucosa and by histopathological examination. After the treatment animal with CZI significantly (P0.05) decreased the ulcer index by preventing gastric mucosal lesions, erosion, and cellular degeneration, and the value of pH value was increased (P0.05). These results demonstrate that CZI has significant gastroprotective properties which support its use in traditional medicine.
Effect of Various Ovarian Storage Times and Oocyte Collection Methods on the Quantity, Quality, and In Vitro Maturation of Local Buffalo Used as Genetic Material Resources
Authors: Hendri Hendri , Udin Zaituni , Masrizal Masrizal , Jaswandi Jaswandi , Nanda Syafri
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to ascertain the impact of oocyte harvest methods and storage times on the amount, quality, and rate of buffalo oocyte maturation in vitro. Ovaries were collected from slaughterhouse at four different time storages (0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 h) before processing with three collection techniques slicing, aspiration, and slicing plus the aspiration of oocytes. According to the morphology of cumulus cell layers closely attached to the zona pellucida of the oocytes and the cytoplasmic appearance of the oocytes, the oocytes were divided into 4 groups (A, B, C, and D). Cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COCs) were transferred into in vitro maturation (IVM) medium of TCM- 199 (Sigma) for 24 h. The stages of nuclear maturation were examined by staining the enlarged COCs from each group.  The result found that the average quantity of oocytes per ovary ranged from 8.08±1.28 to 9.83 ±1.89 and no significant effect (P0.05) on the quantity of oocytes per ovary. The average of oocytes quality per ovary ranges from 0.2 to 5.00 was a highly significant effect of storage time on quality oocytes (P0.01). The maturation rate in the M-II stage ranges from 1.33 to 3.92 per ovary, and storage time is a significant effect (P0.05) on the maturation rate of local buffalo. The collection methods were highly significant (P0.01) on the quantity of oocytes between slicing and aspiration, also between aspiration plus slicing, and no significant (P0.05) between slicing and aspiration plus slicing. The Average oocyte quality ranged from 0.10 to 4.95 per ovary and the highest in slicing plus aspiration methods (P0.05).  The average maturation rate in M-II stage was ranged from 1.00 to 3.85 oocytes per ovary, and the methods of oocytes collection were significant (P0.05) on the maturation rate of local buffalo. In conclusion that the storage time of up to 6 h and aspiration plus slicing is suitable on in vitro maturation of local buffalo.
Utilization of Sago Waste Fermented by Neurospora sp. as Alternative Corn Substitution on Laying Duck Production
Authors: Matitaputty Procula Rudlof , Nurfaizin Nurfaizin Nurfaizin , Ralahalu Tabita Naomi , Da Costa Marchie Astrid
Published: August 2024

The corn stock as a feed energy metabolism source in the Moluccas region is still an obstacle, so there is a need to find a substitution. One of the alternative feeds used is sago waste fermented by Neurospora sp. The study aimed to determine the effect of sago waste fermented by Neurospora sp. as alternative feed productive for laying ducks. The material used was 120 local Moluccas laying ducks aged 22 weeks divided into 5 treatments. Each treatment consisted of 5 replications of 6 laying ducks in each treatment unit. There were five dietary treatments with the inclusion of fermented sago weste: T0 (0%), T1 (10%), T2 (20%), T3 (30%), and T4 (40%). A feeding trial was carried out for 16 weeks. Results showed that the treatments using fermented sago waste by Neurospora sp. significantly affected (P0.05) consumption, production, and feed conversion efficiency. At the same time, egg quality regarding egg weight, yolk carotene content, and odor were not significantly influenced. In conclusion, the maximum level of the use of Neurospora sp. fermented sago was 30% in feed without reducing the general performance of the ducks.
Multifunctional protein nucleobindin 1 as a marker of vascular damage in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Mikhailina A. O. , Kostareva O. S. , Aseeva E. A. , Glukhova S. I. , Lila A. M. , Tishchenko S. V.
Published: August 2024

The search for new biomarkers for the early diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a crucial task. Objective: a comparative study of concentrations of conservative protein nucleobindin 1 (NUCB1) in the blood serum of patients with SLE and healthy donors and assessment of correlation of NUCB1 level with clinical and serological manifestations of the disease.Material and methods. The study included 21 patients with SLE who fulfilled SLICC criteria and 23 healthy donors. SLEDAI-2K index was used to assess SLE activity. Organ damage was assessed using SLICC damage index. Standard laboratory markers of SLE were analyzed in all patients. Concentration of NUCB1 in blood serum was determined using the enzyme immunoassay method. Results and discussion. The group of SLE patients included 20 women and 1 man (median age 33 [27; 40] years, disease duration 5 [3; 10] years), mainly with high disease activity (median SLEDAI-2K 8.5 [6.0; 14.0]). Kidney involvement was found in 52% of cases (nephritis), involvement of joints – in 67% (arthritis), vessels – in 33%, skin – in 67%, pericarditis – in 29%, hematological abnormalities – in 71%, antinuclear factor – in 76% and antibodies against double-stranded DNA – in 71%. An increase in the mean NUCB1 level to 3881 ng/ml was found in the blood serum of SLE patients compared to the control group (2766 ng/ml; p=0.048). Correlations of NUCB1 levels with vascular damage (r=0.653; p<0.05) and pericarditis (r=-0.490; p<0.05) were found. Conclusion. Elevated NUCB1 levels in the blood serum of SLE patients may indicate involvement of this protein in autoimmune and apoptotic processes. The observed correlation of NUCB1 levels with vascular affection and pericarditis is the basis for further studies on the involvement of this protein in the development of various diseases, including SLE.
Long-term belimumab therapy in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Mesnyankina A. A. , Aseeva E. A. , Nikishina N. Yu.
Published: August 2024

Therapy of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remains a difficult task. Long-term use of glucocorticoids (GC) and cytostatic drugs significantly improves the prognosis of life, but at the same time contributes to the accumulation of irreversible damage to the internal organs and, as a result, to the deterioration of the quality of life, disability, social disadaptation and premature mortality. Preventing such consequences, achieving and maintaining long-term remission and reducing the need in high and medium doses of GC remain important tasks in SLE therapy, which has been facilitated by introduction of biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) into clinical practice. Belimumab is the first bDMARD to be approved for the treatment of SLE. The accumulated experience allows conclusions to be drawn about its therapeutic properties and efficacy in a specific subtype of the disease, but feasibility and safety of long-term use of bDMARDs have not been sufficiently investigated. In this article, three clinical cases are presented in which belimumab was successfully used over a period of 9–10 years.
Modern treatment options for systemic lupus erythematosus in children (literature review)
Authors: Kaleda M. I. , Nikishina I. P.
Published: August 2024

The treatment of juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (jSLE) is a complex task in view of the diversity of clinical manifestations and the course of the disease as well as the high risk of organ damage. The need to create separate therapeutic principles for jSLE is justified by the greater intensification of therapy due to both the doses used and the combination of a larger number of different drugs in a patient. However, the basis for the treatment of jSLE today is mainly the extrapolation of data obtained in studies with adult patients. The review reflects modern ideas about the spectrum of drugs used in jSLE, with particular emphasis on efficacy, safety and timing of therapy as well as possible optimization options.
The Relationship between Self-Esteem and Anxiety Levels in Final-year Medical Students
Authors: Adiwijaya Janice Nathania , Felita Fiona , Fitrikasari Alifiati , Sarjana Widodo , Hadiati Titis
Published: August 2024

Background: Self-esteem is an evaluation of oneself that can be positive or negative. Self-esteem affects the way individuals value and views themselves and others. Self-esteem increases gradually during young adulthood. On the other hand, anxiety disorders are also prone to occur during this time. Individuals with low self-esteem arefound to often experience symptoms of anxiety.Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between self-esteem and anxiety levels among final year medical students, Faculty of Medicine, Diponegoro University.Methods: This research is a correlational analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design. Total sampling was used in this research involving final year medical students, Faculty of Medicine, Diponegoro University (Class of 2018). Self-esteem was assessed using the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (RSES), and anxiety levels were assessed using the Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale (ZSAS) that had been tested valid and reliable. Data were analyzed using Spearman and Lambda Correlation Tests.Results: There were 226 respondents involved in this study. The majority of respondents had high self-esteem (69.5%) and a mild level of anxiety (84.1%). Gender was known to affect the level of anxiety (p=0.026) but not self-esteem. Academic achievement and residency status was known not to affect self-esteem and anxiety levels. There was a significant relationship (p=0.000) between self-esteem and anxiety levels with a moderate negative correlation (r=-0.289).Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between self-esteem and anxiety levels.
Mikroplastik Pada Air Tambak Dan Partikel Garam “Krosok” Di Ud. Abraham Desa Oli’o Kabupaten Kupang
Authors: Gadi Dewi Setiyowati , Dawa Umbu Paru Lowu , Lakapu Mada Mariana , Bulan Richardo Emanuel , Teul Maxi Katanga
Published: August 2024

Proses produksi garam di Provinsi NTT selama ini, khususnya di UD. Abraham, Desa Oli’o, Kabupaten Kupang, yaitu menggunakan metode konvensional. Metode konvensional yang diterapkan melalui proses penguapan (evaporasi) air laut dengan memanfaatkan panas dari sinar matahari. Polusi sampah   plastik   menjadi   ancaman terhadap kondisi laut saat ini yang secara global produksinya semakin meningkat drastis setiap tahunnya. Beberapa penelitian telah dilakukan terkait mikroplastik pada air dan garam membuktikan adanya cemaran atau kandungan partikel mikroplastik. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui kandungan mikroplastik pada air bahan baku dan partikel garam “krosok”. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian adalah pengujian terhadap keberadaan, kelimpahan dan bentuk mikroplastik. Data penelitian dianalisis secaradeskriptif kuantitatif. Hasil penelitian membuktikan bahwa adanya cemaran mikroplastik pada semua sampel air tambak (K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6) dan partikel garam “krosok” (GK) dengan total kelimpahan bentuk fragmen (70 partikel/g), fiber (46 partikel/g) dan film (36 partikel/g). The salt production process in NTT Province so far, especially at UD. Abraham, Oli'o Village, Kupang Regency, namely using conventional methods. This method is applied through the evaporation process of sea water by utilizing heat from sunlight. Plastic waste pollution is a threat to current marine conditions, whose global production is increasing drastically every year. Several studies have been carried out regarding microplastics in water and salt, proving the presence of contamination or the content of microplastic particles. The aim of this research is to determine the microplastic content in raw material water and "krosok" salt particles. The method used in the research was testing the presence, abundance and form of microplastics. Research data was analyzed quantitatively descriptively. The research results prove that there is microplastic contamination in all pond water samples (K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6) and "krosok" salt particles (GK) with a total abundance of fragments (70 particles/g), fiber (46 particles/g) and film (36 particles/g).
Tu es Petrus – super hanc petram aedificavi cursum meum
Authors: Curry Robert
Published: August 2024

The book under review is the first monograph-length study devoted to the works of the enigmatic composer, Petrus Wilhelmi de Grudencz. The paucity of information about the composer’s life and about the historical circumstances surrounding his works poses a daunting methodological challenge. The aplomb with which the author, Paweł Gancarczyk, has met this challenge attests to the depth of his knowledge of Petrus Wilhelmi’s works; furthermore, it reflects his thorough conversance with a multiplicity of relevant sources, compositions (not a few in fragmentary state), institutions and personalities. The review notes the manner in which Gancarczyk has thoughtfully interwoven contextual inference, logical extrapolation and informed conjecture to sustain a fluent and engaging narrative. Due attention in the review is given to the author’s contention that the works of Petrus Wilhelmi can be regarded as archetypical of fifteenth-century Central European music. The review acknowledges Gancarczyk’s book as an invaluable compendium of up-to-date data and information about Petrus Wilhelmi and his oeuvre.
Rozdarte życie. György Kurtág
Authors: Borys Szymon
Published: August 2024

This article is devoted to the life and music of György Kurtág (*1926). In the centre of the topic is the most important aspect of Kurtág’s work: philosophical or more precisely – existential and religious issues. Although it takes on a defeatist tone, Kurtág’s pessimism is far from a typical kind of resignation. In search for the sources of his pessimistic spiritual predisposition I examine the biographical dimension of his development which, like a kind of leitmotif, determines the consecutive stages of his output.In the following subsections I examine the events of Kurtág’s life that had a decisive influence on his pessimistic disposition: his mother’s death (chapter 1); a moral crisis associated with his own political views and the tragic Hungarian Revolution of 1956 (chapter 2); the creative crisis and therapy with psychologist Marianne Stein (chapter 3), as well as his awareness of being alienated from the European contemporary music scene of the 1960s (chapter 4). In subsequent chapters I analyze the impact of these events on his selected compositions through the prism of the creator’s pessimistic attitude (chapter 5–9). At the end of the article I abandon the biographical perspective and try to answer the question about the religious dimension of existentialism in his music.
Kontrowersje wokół kulturowego wzorca macierzyństwa w Polsce
Authors: Matysiak-Błaszczyk Agata , Ściupider-Młodkowska Mirosława
Published: August 2024

The article discusses issues related to selected controversies surrounding the cultural pattern of motherhood. In particular, the text analyzes motherhood as a lost value. The core question guiding the considerations relates to the quality of the current dominant construct of the role of the mother, i.e. whether it has a customary/legal/ritual form, or is it currently a rational project consciously chosen by women? The whole discussion was set within a theoretical framework, in what is known as a critical discourse analysis, whose main task was to unmask the myth of motherhood as the only and rightful role, lar- gely dependent on the cultural dominants in a given country.
Osoba z głęboką intelektualną i wieloraką niepełnosprawnością podmiotem badań empirycznych – perspektywa badacza/badaczki
Authors: Kopeć Danuta
Published: August 2024

Individuals with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) present considerable research challenges due to their psycho-physical condition and their functioning as research subjects. Using two research projects as examples, one Polish (Kopeć, 2013, The (Non)-educational Reality of Indivi- dual with Profound Intellectual Disabilities) and the other Finnish (Vehmas, Mietola, 2021, Narrowed Lives: Meaning, Moral Value, and Profound Intellectual Disability), difficulties encountered during research involving individuals with PIMD were identified. The challenges related to the methodology of the conducted research projects were discussed, such as the choice of research paradigm, selection of research method, and their execution. Attention was also drawn to concerns associated with obtaining informed consent from individuals with PIMD who are subjects of the study. Referring to the research projects conducted, the researchers presented their approach to resolving the difficulties encountered during the research process.
Idiosyncratic entrenchment: tracing change in constructional schematicity with nested random effects
Authors: Vetchinnikova Svetlana
Published: August 2024

Usage-based constructionist approaches see language as an inventory of constructions at different levels of schematicity learned from the input. If so, personal constructicons should vary as a function of usage. Repeated use and chunking/entrenchment of concrete instances should lead to reanalysis of their internal structure and change in the level of schematicity. This paper exploits the reduction probability of is in it is as a diagnostic of reanalysis in a 1.75-million-word diachronic corpus of a single blogger over 8 years. All instances of it is/it’s (n = 10,929) were annotated at the constructional and lexical levels. A multilevel logistic regression model showed significant fixed effects of constructional entropy and construction-to-word association on reduction probability. Importantly, there remained substantial variation across lexical types of constructions in the extent to which they associated or became associated with reduction over time, suggesting idiosyncratic entrenchment and potential reanalysis as a function of usage.
Semicontinuous maps on module varieties
Authors: Geiß Christof , Labardini-Fragoso Daniel , Schröer Jan
Published: August 2024

We study semicontinuous maps on varieties of modules over finite-dimensional algebras.
We prove that truncated Euler maps are upper or lower semicontinuous.
This implies that 𝑔-vectors and 𝐸-invariants of modules are upper semicontinuous.
We also discuss inequalities of generic values of some upper semicontinuous maps.
Highly photocatalytic materials based on the decoration of poly(O-chloroaniline) with molybdenum trichalcogenide oxide for green hydrogen generation from Red Sea water
Authors: Aldosari Eman , Rabia Mohamed , Zhang Qinfang
Published: August 2024

Utilizing an innovative and highly light-absorbing photocathode, the direct conversion of hydrogen gas from Red Sea water is achieved. This involves creating a new nanocomposite thin film through a one-pot synthesis method, combining poly(O-chloroaniline) with trichalcogenides (MoS3) and MoO3 (MoS3–molebednium oxide/poly(o-chloroaniline)). This nanocomposite has remarkable morphological and optical properties with potential as a photocathode for hydrogen generation by harnessing the power of Red Sea water. This nanocomposite exhibits a unique semi-spherical architecture, with an average size of around 150 nm. These semi-spherical particles are surrounded by a dense network of fibers, forming a complex structure that provides ample space for trapping photons when exposed to light. The distinctive morphology significantly influences the optical properties of this nanocomposite, showing strong absorbance across a wide range of optical wavelengths up to ∼700 nm, with a promising bandgap of 1.75 eV. The hydrogen generation is quantified by measuring the generated photocurrent density (J
ph) as a function of the light incidence frequency using various optical filters at a fixed potential of −0.8 V. The highest J
ph values are recorded at −0.558 and −0.553 mA·cm−2 for wavelengths of 340 and 440 nm, respectively; the value reaches its maximum at the white light with a wavelength of −0.63 mA·cm−2. Elevating the temperature from 30°C to 50°C results in a substantial enhancement of the J
ph values, increasing from −0.63 to −0.71 mA·cm−2, respectively. This temperature increase leads to a noteworthy improvement in incidnce photon to current conversion from 1.85% to 2.22%. This photoelectrode demonstrates not only cost-effectiveness but also eco-friendliness, making it an attractive choice for H2 generation by Red Sea water as a natural, environmentally friendly, and economically viable hydrogen source. Consequently, this study holds significant promise for industrial applications due to its economic and eco-friendly characteristics.
Functional linguistics in life: an embodied approach in teacher education
Authors: Zhang Maverick Y.
Published: August 2024

Pedagogies developed from systemic functional linguistics are seen as valuable in supporting diverse students in both mainstream and language classrooms. Over the past decade, SFL also became a crucial component in teacher education programs particularly in the North American context, as it advances teachers’ knowledge of language and curriculum design focusing on the development of disciplinary literacy of minoritized multilingual learners. Drawing from data collected in a year-long classroom ethnographic study in the Southeastern U.S., this paper explores (1) how a range of embodied inquiry activities were designed as an integral part of a teacher education curriculum and (2) how these activities created entry points for diverse pre-service teachers and the teacher educator to grapple with functional linguistics and critically engage with their language use in everyday lives. Data analysis includes theory-informed thematic analysis and a mediated approach towards participants’ material-discursive trajectories across spatial and historical contexts. Findings show the affordances of using embodied activities to support teachers in making sense of key constructs from SFL in relation to their own lived experiences and cultural epistemologies. Implications point to the significance of innovative, culturally sustaining approaches toward both the teaching and use of SFL as well as the need for continued critical reflections and actions in changing classroom contexts.
Pregnancy in the Paint and the Pitch: Does Giving Birth Impact Performance?
Authors: Harris Jill S. , Berri David J.
Published: August 2024

We examine the impact of giving birth on athletic performance of players in the Women’s National Basketball Association. Using data from media reports and National Womens Basketball Players Association records we specify a productivity model and use a differences-in-means approach to investigate. We do not find any impact of giving birth on player performance in the sample. In the wake of the Gunnarsdottir maternity leave decision against Club Lyon, this research could help inform league policies concerning maternity leave and also contribute to the broader conversation about gender discrimination in the workplace based on perceptions of productivity before and after giving birth.
Enhancing precision and safety in metallographic sample preparation: Reduce the stochasticity and workload with robotization
Authors: Čermák J. , Ambrož O. , Jozefovič P. , Mikmeková Š.
Published: August 2024

Despite advancements in metallography automation, sample preparation remains largely semi-automated with isolated subprocesses like sectioning, grinding, and polishing. Leveraging modern technologies such as collaborative robotics, AI-driven computer vision, and advanced sensors could enable fully integrated automation. However, the diversity of processes requires skilled human oversight. Integrating user-friendly cobot interfaces may promote a synergistic workspace that enhances safety, reduces monotony, and supports complex studies and documentation aligned with open science principles. Our study explores cost-effective mini robots in critical preparation stages, highlighting steps toward complex automation in metallography.
Metallography of tailings from the Mansfeld copper mining area
Authors: Cloeren H.-H. , Haubner R. , Strobl S.
Published: August 2024

The copper slate deposit of the Mansfeld copper mining area was mined in the 19th and 20th century. Mineral collectors can still find traces of copper smelting activities on the slag heaps of the various copper smelters.

A piece from the Krug smelter slag heap mainly consists of Cu and Fe sulfides. The piece in question might be the intermediate product copper matte.

The pieces from Hettstedt and the August Bebel smelter contain clearly visible metallic copper. The Hettstedt specimen might be a piece of furnace lining with adhering slag. Cr and Mg could be found, suggesting that chromium magnesia was used as refractory material.

The piece from the August Bebel smelter contains up to 18 wt. % Cu. It does, however, not contain any sulfur. It is most likely Fe2SiO4 slag (fayalite) with a high proportion of FeO. The presence of Sn and Zn suggests that this slag was formed during the processing of bronze or brass.
Electropolishing study of metastable austenitic steel AISI 347 for EBSD analyses
Authors: Donnerbauer K. , Koch L. A. , Lingnau L. A. , Otto J. L. , Walther F.
Published: August 2024

For the metastable austenitic steel AISI 347 (X6CrNiNb18-10), various electropolishing parameters were evaluated by means of hardness testing, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and atomic force microscopy. Depending on the chosen parameters, different surface characteristics could be achieved simply by only varying voltage, flow rate, and polishing time, although EBSD indexing was always possible. Differences in hardness of up to 20 HV0.5 and in microscopic roughness could be detected on otherwise comparable samples. Finally, the microstructure distribution of a hot rolled bar material with a diameter of 153 mm made from AISI 347 was characterized over the cross section using the previously determined parameter set. Here, insights about recrystallization during forming were concluded and δ-ferrite was differentiated from α’-martensite by kernel average misorientation and morphology.
Effects of heat treatment on the microstructure and corrosion behavior of manganese aluminum bronzes
Authors: Haubner R. , Strobl S. , Ball G. , Linhardt P. , Biezma M. V.
Published: August 2024

Due to a much lower nickel content, manganese aluminum bronzes (MAB) are a cost-effective alternative to nickel aluminum bronzes (NAB). When the material is processed, different microstructures are observable in the material which have an impact on the corrosion resistance of MAB alloys.

MAB samples were annealed at 900 °C and quenched in water. After that, annealing treatments at 600, 500, 400 and 300 °C for up to 24 h were performed and the samples were again quenched in water. Metallographic sections were prepared from all samples and potentiostatic corrosion tests at different potentials were performed in synthetic seawater.

It was found that the sample annealed at 900 °C and quenched in water as well as those samples which underwent a second annealing treatment at low temperatures for shorter times exhibited a greater corrosion tendency than those undergoing a second annealing treatment at higher temperatures.

X-ray diffraction measurements revealed that phase transformations and changes in grain size occurred during the annealing treatments. The increase in corrosion resistance as a result of annealing at higher temperatures is probably due to the strong intergrowth of the phases that are formed.
Widerfahrnisse des Sports. Zum unausgeschöpften Potenzial der philosophischen Anthropologie für die Sportwissenschaft
Authors: Gugutzer Robert
Published: August 2024

Die philosophische Anthropologie spielt in der gegenwärtigen Sportwissenschaft eine sehr randständige Rolle. Der Text möchte seinen Teil dazu beitragen, dies zu ändern, indem er die ungebrochene Bedeutung der philosophischen Anthropologie für die Sportwissenschaft nachweist. Dazu werden mit Wilhelm Kamlah, Hermann Schmitz und Gernot Böhme drei Autoren vorgestellt, die in der Sportwissenschaft bislang kaum zur Kenntnis genommen werden. Das Verbindende der philosophisch-anthropologischen Ansätze dieser drei Autoren ist die Überzeugung, dass das Menschsein fundamental durch Widerfahrnisse gekennzeichnet ist. Mit Rekurs auf Kamlah, Schmitz und Böhme lässt sich so der im Sport und der Sportwissenschaft vorherrschende Aktivismus um eine pathische Dimension ergänzen – in den Blick kommt der fundamentale Widerfahrnischarakter des Sports. Die argumentative Begründung hierfür erfolgt in drei Schritten: (1) Bezugnehmend auf die philosophische Anthropologie Kamlahs wird „Widerfahrnis“ als anthropologisches Prädikat eingeführt. (2) Mit der philosophischen Anthropologie von Schmitz erfolgt sodann der Fokus zum einen auf die leibliche Dimension von Widerfahrnissen, zum anderen auf die Gefühle als die für das menschliche Leben vermutlich bedeutendsten Widerfahrnisse. Dies wird an einem prototypischen Beispiel zur Verzweiflung im Sport illustriert. (3) Daran anknüpfend plädiert der Text mit Hilfe der philosophischen Anthropologie Böhmes für eine „Ethik des Pathischen“, die das im Sport vorherrschende Autonomiekonzept durch ein Souveränitätskonzept ersetzt.
Measurement and advanced data post-processing of proton resonance frequency shift in 7 T MRI to obtain local temperature in a tissue-mimicking phantom
Authors: Garcia Maíra M. , Oliveira Tiago R. , Chaim Khallil T. , Bruns Christian , Otaduy Maria C. G. , Svejda Jan T. , Bernarding Johannes , Erni Daniel , Zylka Waldemar
Published: August 2024

The radio-frequency (RF) transmit power deposition in tissue during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at ultra-high fields, i.e. B
0 ≥ 7 T, is a major challenge for pulse sequences requesting large flip angles. The absorbed RF energy can pose safety risk to patients as it is rising temperature in the tissue. The temperature can be accessed using MRI itself via the proton-resonance frequency (PRF) shift technique, which at low B
0 has been shown a valid MR thermometry method. In this paper, we explore the applicability of the PRF method to the assessment of local temperature in 7 T MRI procedures. To this end, we built a phantom filled with a material presenting electrical conductivity and permittivity close to muscle tissue. Tubes filled with oil were placed nearby the phantom to observe the time dependent B
0 drift. MRI phase images were acquired by gradient-echo (GRE) sequences at time points between spin-echo sequences with large flip angle allowing for a continuous assessment of the temperature during a 114 min RF-heating experiment. All acquired phase images were post-processed with attention to the time dependent instability of B
0, and, in addition, to potential spatial and temporal phase discontinuities, known as wraps. In this paper, we present a strategy to analyze and to unfold these phase wraps for large measurement fields and long acquisition times. It is shown that the PRF shift method is beneficial for the assessment of temperature at 7 T MRI. The temperature maps for axial and coronal planes display a temperature increase of approximately 3.5 °C during the time of the RF-heating experiment. Overall it is shown that B
0-drift correction and, importantly, the spatio-temporal unwrapping are an indispensable part of post-processing.
Evaluation of the Bursting Strength and Pilling Properties of Knitted Fabrics Produced from Recycled Yarns with Cotton Hard Waste
Authors: Uyanık Seval , Kaya Nacarkahya Tülin
Published: August 2024

In terms of sustainability, the textile industry has a significant impact because of intense mass consumption, fast fashion trends, short-term use of products, and thus the textile industry increases textile waste. Basic textile wastes are in solid forms of fibers, yarns, fabrics, cardboard, plastics, dyes, and chemicals containing wastewater, as well as gaseous wastes that cause emissions that release after textile processes. Recycling is the best solution for all textile wastes. In the recycling process of cotton, preconsumption wastes are generated in yarn production and the following production departments, whereas postconsumption wastes are used after classification according to both the structure and the color of the incoming wastes. Cotton hard waste is used at different blend ratios, and this study aims to reveal the effects of waste material on both the bursting strength and pilling properties of fabrics knitted with rotor yarns in different yarn counts. In the scope of sustainability, the findings show that the use of cotton hard waste at up to a 50 % ratio in circular knitted fabrics does not adversely affect the fabric’s bursting strength and pilling properties.
A Modified Benchtop Test Method to Measure the Movements of Intervertebral Body Fusion Devices
Authors: Roesler Carlos Rodrigo de Mello , Santos Arthur Paiva Grimaldi , Ribeiro Kevin Mauricio Menon , Ramos de Sousa Izabela , da Rosa Edison , Haider Hani
Published: August 2024

This study developed and evaluated a new benchtop test method to measure the movements of different designs of intervertebral body fusion devices (IBFDs) under cyclic loads. The experimental method simulates and evaluates the movement resistance of intervertebral cages under flexion-extension cyclic loads experienced by the lumbar spine. The present method modifies a method developed previously and offers a possibility to be more clinically relevant and robust. This is because it allowed for closer achievement of levels of IBFD rotation reported in the literature and introduced the ability to control the flexion-extension movement and, consequently, the rotation of the cage more precisely. Polyurethane foam blocks were used as the bone substitute material. Optical and contactless displacement measurements were performed using a robust six degrees of freedom measuring system (OptiTrack) to evaluate the movements of the IBFD during testing. The results obtained by applying the new benchtop method showed greater sensitivity in capturing the implant movements in all directions measured, with magnitude significantly superior from Ribeiro et al. (2022). A test method to measure the movements of different IBFD designs was modified to better simulate and control the lumbar spine flexion-extension movements. The proposed benchtop methodology can evaluate the IBFD movements in all directions to more efficiently discriminate in a potentially standardized test the efficacy of different IBFD designs.
Study on the Modification Mechanism of Soap-Free Latex on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cement Paste
Authors: Jiao Libin , Li Wenzhe , Dai Feng , Zheng Youzhi , Hu Xihui , Xu Xinghai , Wang Fuyun , Zhao Jun , He Yu , He Lang , Sun Kun
Published: August 2024

In view of problems such as the decline in strength of cement paste and latex exudation caused by the addition of conventional latex, JAS soap-free latex (JAS latex) was prepared by soap-free emulsion polymerization technology. JAS latex had the characteristics of low viscosity, uniform particle size, good dispersity of particles, and good compatibility with cement admixtures. JAS latex had little impact on the fluidity of oil-well cement paste. The free liquid of the cement paste with 10 % JAS latex was 0 %, and its liquid-loss content was 43 mL. When the JAS cement paste was cured at 90°C, its compressive strength was 34.08 MPa. When the curing temperature was 70°C, the bond strength between the paste and metal casing reached 4.95 MPa. Combining the results tested by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy showed that JAS latex did not affect the hydration process of oil-well cement, had good film-forming ability in cement paste, and improved the density and impact resistance of the cement paste. It is helpful to improve the sealing integrity and sealing ability of cement sheath in cementing engineering and ensure the safe and efficient development of oil and natural gas resources.
Effect of Ultrasonic Treatment on Residual Stress and Mechanical Properties of AISI 304 Stainless Steel Welding
Authors: Li Wenkai , Zou Guowei , Yin Peng , Xu Chunguang , Zhang Wenjun , Xu Rui , Zhu Congbin
Published: August 2024

AISI 304 stainless steel has low thermal conductivity and a high linear expansion coefficient; conventional welding with this material produces coarse grains and poor joint tensile properties. To address the problems inherent in conventional 304 stainless steel welding, an ultrasonic transducer was brought into contact with a base metal and treated with ultrasonic vibration during welding. The residual stress distribution, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the welded joint were then analyzed. The results showed that under the combined action of thermodynamics and the dynamics caused by ultrasonic treatment, the flow performance of the molten pool was enhanced, heat was transferred from the high-temperature region to the low-temperature region, and the metal elements were constantly diffused during the crystallization of the molten pool. Thus, the transformation rate of columnar crystals to equiaxed crystals was accelerated, the proportion of equiaxed crystals increased, and the grains became refined. Compared with conventional welding, the microstructure of the 304 stainless steel welded joints was better after the introduction of ultrasonic vibration, and its tensile residual stress was significantly lower. The improvement in the microstructure of the weld improved its mechanical properties, and the hardness of the weld zone increased significantly, which was close to that of the base metal. After the ultrasonic treatment, the increase in the equiaxed crystals and the refinement in the grains effectively improved the quality of the welded joints so that the tensile strength of the welded joints was higher than that of conventional welded joints. Under the condition of the same ultrasonic vibration frequency and power, the tensile strength of welded joints with 2-mm steel plate exhibited a notable increase, which was 13 %.
Assessing the Suitability of Different Testing and Specimen Preparation Approaches for Indirect Tensile Cracking Test (IDT-CT) Using a Simple Ranking Framework
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Coleri Erdem , Sukhija Mayank
Published: August 2024

The advent of new additives such as polymers, rubber, and warm mix additives, as well as emphasis on the use of reclaimed asphalt materials, has rendered the traditional volumetric mix design of asphalt mixtures inadequate. As a result, the need for incorporating performance tests in the mix design process and adopting a balanced mix design (BMD) approach is now being widely recognized. One of the major challenges in adopting and implementing the BMD process is the selection of performance tests for rutting and cracking evaluation. Oregon is in the preimplementation phase of BMD. The Oregon Department of Transportation has been working on the development of a BMD method since 2015 and is now exploring the use of the indirect tensile cracking test (IDT-CT) (formerly called the IDEAL-CT), which is a simple, practical, and rapid cracking performance test. However, the results of this test have been found to be sensitive to the loading equipment, aging conditions, temperature conditioning methods, and specimen's air voids, among other factors. In this study, the IDT-CT results of the two mix types were compared for different aging conditions, temperature conditioning methods, sample sitting time (the time that lapsed between the production of the sample and the cracking test), and device type, and the most suitable testing approach was determined using a simple ranking approach. Among all the testing approaches, testing the samples in a low-cost load frame after conditioning them in a dry conditioning chamber can be considered the most suitable method.
Evolution of the Shear Strength and Microstructure of Undisturbed Lateritic Soil under the Influence of Alkali Contamination
Authors: Yue Xiu , Bai Wei , Kong Ling-wei , Guo Ai-guo
Published: August 2024

With the progression of industrialization, alkaline contamination has become an increasingly serious issue in soil environments, significantly impacting the engineering properties and microstructure of soils. Undisturbed lateritic soil samples were immersed in sodium hydroxide solutions with pH values of 8.8 and 11.4, as well as in deionized water with a pH of 7.0, for soaking times of 1 day, 7 days, and 28 days. The influence of alkali contamination on the shear strength of the lateritic soil was quantified through consolidated slow shear tests. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, nitrogen adsorption tests, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and laser particle size analysis were employed to thoroughly explore changes in micromorphology, mineral composition, pore structure, and particle size of samples, aiming to establish a microstructural evolution model. At pH = 8.8, the cohesion and friction angle of samples are higher than that soaked in water and increase with the soaking time. At pH = 11.4, the cohesion significantly increases on the 1st day, relatively decreases by the 7th day, but remains higher than that at pH = 8.8. Subsequently, with an increase in soaking time, the cohesion continues to rise. The alkali solution dissolves the kaolinite minerals causing the pore structure to collapse. The elevated shear strength at pH = 8.8 is attributed to smaller particles tightly locking together to form a more stable structure. At pH 11.4, the significant increase in cohesion after 1 day is not only attributable to the reasons mentioned above but also attributed to the aluminum silicate gel’s bonding effect on particles. By the 7th day, gel dissolution reduces soil cohesion.