bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Biological Perspectives on Noncanonical Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Rare Subtypes
Authors: Pomenti Sydney F. , Flashner Samuel P. , Del Portillo Armando , Nakagawa Hiroshi , Gabre Joel , Rustgi Anil K. , Katzka David A.
Published: August 2024

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains the most common malignancy of the esophagus worldwide. Environmental and lifestyle exposures such as alcohol and tobacco have been well defined in the pathogenesis of ESCC, acting in concert with cell intrinsic epigenomic, genomic and transcriptomic changes. However, a variety of nonenvironmental etiologies including Fanconi anemia, lichen planus, chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, esophageal epidermoid metaplasia, epidermolysis bullosa, tylosis, esophageal atresia, and achalasia receive minimal attention despite a high risk of ESCC in these diseases. The goal of this review was to promote clinical recognition and suggest a diagnostic framework for earlier detection of ESCC in patients with these rare diseases. In all the discussed conditions, a change in symptoms should trigger a prompt endoscopic evaluation, and endoscopic surveillance programs with advanced imaging techniques and chromoendoscopy should be considered. Moreover, we leverage the convergence of these diseases on ESCC to identify common mechanisms underlying malignant transformation including aberrant proliferation, mucosal barrier dysfunction, increased inflammation, and genome instability. In this study, we summarize the clinical presentation, pathologic findings, potential screening strategies, and common mechanisms of malignant transformation associated with these rare diseases that drive ESCC.
Netakimab for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis: 3-year results of the phase III BCD-085-8/PATERA study
Authors: Korotaeva T. V. , Mazurov V. I. , Lila A. M. , Gaidukova I. Z. , Bakulev A. L. , Samtsov A. V. , Khairutdinov V. R. , Zinkina-Orikhan A. V. , Linkova Yu. N. , Eremeeva A. V.
Published: August 2024

This article presents the results of the 3-year use of netakimab (NTK), a monoclonal antibody against interleukin 17, in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) as part of the phase III PATERA study. Objective: to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of NTK in patients with PsA over a period of 3 years. Material and methods. PATERA is a double-blind, multicenter, randomized, phase III clinical trial. 194 patients with active PsA were randomized 1:1 to NTX or placebo/NTX. NTX/placebo was administered at weeks 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 14. Placebo patients who did not achieve a 20% improvement according to ACR criteria (ACR20) at week 16 received NTX at weeks 18 and 22. Patients who achieved ACR20 received placebo at weeks 18 and 22. Subsequently, all patients received NTX. At week 54, patients who did not meet ACR20 criteria were withdrawn from the study and the remaining patients were treated in the extension phase. The total duration of NTX use in all groups was 3 years. Results and discussion. Therapeutic response achieved in the first year of treatment was maintained in the extended phase of the study. Against the background of NTX use, a significant long-term decrease in clinical manifestations of PsA was observed. Adverse events occurred mainly in the form of laboratory abnormalities and infectious diseases, which were mostly mild to moderate. Antibodies against NTK were detected in 9.3% of patients and in most cases they were formed at the end of the first and beginning of the second year of therapy. Conclusion. NTK showed a favorable safety profile with long-term use over 3 years. The clinical effect on all manifestations of PsA was maintained in most patients over a long period of time without significant loss of response.
Validation of the Russian-language version of Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life (ASQoL) questionnaire
Authors: Vorobyova L. D. , Dubinina T. V. , Sablina A. O. , Demina A. B. , Ilinykh E. V. , Sakharova K. V. , Andrianova I. A. , Korotaeva T. V. , Ivanova L. V.
Published: August 2024

Objective: validation of the Russian-language version of Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life (ASQoL) specific questionnaire for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Materials and methods. Тhe study included 100 patients with a definite diagnosis of AS according to the modified New York criteria of 1984. Patients were mostly men (58.5%), average age – 38.6±10 years, disease duration – 10.3±7.0 years, median disease activity by ASDAS-CRP – 2.32 [1.45; 2.94]. At the initial visit and after 3 months, all patients underwent a standard rheumatological examination, with assessment of the tender joint count (TJC) and swollen joint count (SJC) out of 44 joints assessed, the number of inflamed entheses using MASES index, spinal mobility using BASMI index. Assessment of patient reported outcomes included an assessment of spinal pain, night spinal pain, spinal pain during the day using a numerical rating scale, patient’s global assessment of health, assessment of functional status using BASFI index and health related quality of life (HRQoL) using EQ-5D, SF-36 and ASQoL questionnaires. To determine reliability of ASQoL questionnaire, a test-retest analysis and determination of internal consistency by calculating the Cronbach's α coefficient were used. The reliability of the questionnaire was analyzed in 39 patients. To assess the validity of the ASQoL questionnaire, i.e. its ability to reliably measure its inherent characteristics, construct and criterion validity were determined. The sensitivity of the questionnaire was assessed after 3 months during therapy in 79 patients. Results and discussion. According to the test-retest analysis, there was no difference between the initial assessment and re-assessment after 3 days (p>0.05), the Cronbach α coefficient was 0.884, indicating high reliability. Construct validity analysis was carried out using factor analysis and the “known groups” method. 3 main factors were identified: pain, physical health, emotional health. The “known groups” method showed that in patients with high disease activity according to ASDAS-CRP and BASDAI, HRQoL was significantly worse than in patients with low disease activity (р<0,05). To calculate criterion validity, the relationship of ASQoL to “external criteria” and interchangeability with general questionnaires SF-36 and EQ-5D were evaluated by a correlation analysis. It was shown that this questionnaire is highly interchangeable. To determine sensitivity of ASQoL, its changes were analyzed in relation to the effect of therapy after 3 months. Significant changes in the subscales of the questionnaire were observed in patients who achieved low disease activity according to ASDAS-CRP during therapy, reflecting its good sensitivity. Conclusion. The ASQoL has good psychometric properties and is able to reflect changes in a patient's health status over time along with disease activity.
The influence of type 2 diabetes mellitus on clinical manifestations of osteoarthritis
Authors: Taskina E. A. , Alekseeva L. I. , Kashevarova N. G. , Strebkova E. A. , Sharapova E. P. , Savushkina N. M. , Mikhailov K. M. , Raskina T. A. , Vinogradova I. B. , Otteva E. N. , Zonova E. V. , Anoshenkova O. N. , Lila A. M.
Published: August 2024

Objective: to investigate in a multicenter study relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and clinical manifestations of osteoarthritis (OA). Material and methods. The study involved 767 patients aged 40–75 years with a confirmed diagnosis of stage I–III knee OA who had signed an informed consent form. The mean age of patients was 57.9±9.6 years, body mass index (BMI) was 30.8±6.4 kg/m2  and median duration of disease was 5 [2; 11] years. An individual record card was filled out for each patient, it contained anthropometric parameters, medical history and clinical examination data, knee pain assessment using a visual analogue scale (VAS), WOMAC, parameters of KOOS questionnaire and patient's global assessment of health. Results and discussion. DM was detected in 17.2% of cases. Patients were categorized into two groups according to the presence or absence of DM. In the presence of DM, more severe clinical manifestations of OA were noted. However, patients with DM were older, had higher BMI values, longer disease duration and were more frequently diagnosed with radiological stage III OA. After stratification by age and disease duration, individuals with DM retained worse pain scores according to VAS compared to patients without DM (median 51.5 [41.5; 70] mm versus 36 [25; 50] mm, p=0.049), total WOMAC index (1047.5 [792; 1260] mm versus 823 [536; 1145] mm; p=0.005) and its components (pain – 200 [160; 254] mm versus 155 [108; 230] mm, p=0.002; stiffness – 90 [50; 115] mm versus 60.5 [35; 100] mm, p=0.03; functional impairment – 765 [550; 918] mm versus 595 [350; 820] mm, p=0.009). Conclusion. Type 2 DM is common in patients with OA (in 17.2% of cases) and is associated with more severe clinical manifestations: greater pain intensity according to VAS and higher WOMAC scores (total index and its components).
Long-term multicenter observational study of the drug Alflutop in Russia: use in patients with knee osteoarthritis (report 4)
Authors: Taskina E. A. , Alekseeva L. I. , Kashevarova N. G. , Lila A. M.
Published: August 2024

Objective: to investigate the efficacy of Alflutop therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) with or without concomitant diseases. Material and methods. The large-scale, multicenter prospective, open-label, observational, non-interventional ISKRA study (Study: Prescribing the drug Alflutop, solution for injection, for OA in real world clinical practice) included 22,525 patients, 10,616 of whom had knee OA. The mean age of patients with knee OA was 60.1±11.7 years, body mass index (BMI) was 28±4.6 kg/m2 , and median disease duration was 60 [24; 120] months. All patients had significant comorbidities: arterial hypertension in 90% of cases, and ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus and obesity in one in three cases. Alflutop was administered daily 1 ml intramuscularly (IM), No. 20, or every second day 2 ml IM, No. 10. The efficacy of the treatment was assessed by the dynamics of pain intensity using a visual analogue scale (VAS), patient's general health assessment (PHA) using VAS and quality of life using EQ-5D, and the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Results and discussion. After one course of treatment, median pain intensity decreased from 60 [40; 70] to 20 [10; 40] mm, quality of life improved – median EQ-5D increased from 0.59 [0.36; 0.69] to 0.85 [0.73; 1]) and PHA from 50 [37; 70] to 80 [60; 90] mm, and the need for NSAIDs decreased. Female gender, older age, high BMI, severe pain, radiological stages III and IV, poorer quality of life, presence of concomitant diseases and lower adherence to treatment were associated with a less significant response to therapy. Conclusion. The results of the use of Alflutop in knee OA suggest that widespread use in real-life clinical practice is possible. The inclusion of additional therapeutic targets in the OA treatment strategy, as well as the identification and correction of factors associated with a less pronounced analgesic effect of the drug, will potentially improve treatment efficacy.
Impact of Greenhouse Size on the Growth and Yield of Warm Season Vegetables During the Summer Ladakh, India
Authors: Dolma Tsering , Dolker Tsetan , Kumar Rohit , Namgail Deskyong , Katiyar Anand K , Chaurasia O P , Stobdan Tsering
Published: August 2024

No guidelines exist on the size of naturally ventilated passive solar greenhouses in mountain regions, especially above 10,000 feet above mean sea level (AMSL). Two different-sized greenhouses in Ladakh were studied, and it was figured out that a large greenhouse (60 feet in length, 24 feet in width, 9 feet 6 inches in height) was better than a small greenhouse (32 feet in length, 18 feet width, 9 feet 6 inches height) for growing cucumber, capsicum, and brinjal in summer. The mean maximum and minimum temperature of the large greenhouse was 3.6±4.1°C and 1.3±1.6°C warmer in comparison to the small greenhouse. Cucumber was harvested seven days earlier, while capsicum and brinjal were harvested 17 days earlier in the large greenhouse. The marketable fruit numbers in cucumber, capsicum, and brinjal were 50.5 %, 46.9 %, and 67.7 % higher in the large greenhouse. The average marketable fruit yield of cucumber, capsicum and brinjal was 112 %, 55 % and 71.4 % higher in the large greenhouse than in the small greenhouse. Hence, large greenhouses are suggested for high-altitude Ladakh regions for growing warm-season crops in summer.
Microgreens A Review on Bioactive Compounds, Sensory Acceptance and Utilisation in Functional Food Development
Authors: Rawat Kritika , Jain Monika , Pahuja Aastha
Published: August 2024

Microgreens are acquired by harvesting the upper part of a young plant within a window of 10-20 days. They are rich sources of several nutrients and antioxidants. Microgreens harbour minerals like magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, selenium, and vitamins such as α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid. Microgreen farming is attracting vegetable growers due to its short harvesting time and customer demand. But their deterioration starts just after harvest, resulting in a low shelf-life that deters their market growth. Developing functional foods with extended shelf-life using microgreens is required to further expand their market. Microgreens-based food-products hold great potential on the market. A few attempts have been made to develop microgreens-based food-products (muffins, beverages, and cookies), yet this area is still largely undiscovered. This review aims to discuss the bioactive compounds, associated health benefits, and sensory acceptance of microgreens and explore the development of novel, healthy, and tasty microgreens-based food-products.
Distribusi Logam Berat (Pb dan Cd) Sedimen di Perairan Pantai Loji Pekalongan, Jawa Tengah
Authors: Dierrisska Pudja Handjanny Nastitie , Maslukah Lilik , Rochaddi Baskoro , Zainuri Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Sungai Loji merupakan salah satu sungai di Kabupaten Pekalongan, Jawa Tengah, yang dipengaruhi oleh berbagai aktivitas manusia seperti industri, perikanan, dan pemukiman. Berbagai aktivitas tersebut dapat menghasilkan limbah, salah satunya adalah logam berat, Adanya aliran air dari daratan menyebabkan sebagian logam berat dapat masuk ke laut. Penelitian ini bertujuan  menentukan dan memetakan pola distribusi kandungan logam berat Timbal (Pb) dan Cadmium (Cd) di sedimen dasar dan keterkaitannya terhadap prosentase ukuran butir dan bahan organik sedimen. Pengambilan sampel pada 24 Agustus 2021. Analissis logam berat Pb dan Cd sedimen menggunakan metode SNI 4819:2013, bahan organik menggunakan loss of igniation (LOI), ukuran butir melalui pengayakan dan pemipetan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan konsentrasi Pb antara 3,708 - 6,149 mg/kg dan Cd dibawah deteksi limit (≤0,003 mg/kg). Pola distribusi logam Pb tidak dipengaruhi oleh ukuran butir, namun dipengaruhi oleh prosentase bahan organik sebesar 43%. Konsentrasi bahan organik berada pada kisaran 28,5% - 53,29%. Konsentrasi logam berat sedimen masih berada di bawah baku mutu ANZECC dan perairan pantai Loji, Pekalongan ini masih dalam kondisi alami atau belum tercemar. One of the rivers in Pekalongan Regency, Central Java, Loji River is affected by various human activities such as industry, fisheries, and settlements. These activities can produce waste, one of which is heavy metals. The existence of runoff from land causes some heavy metals to reach the marine environment. This study aims to determine and mapping the distribution patterns of the heavy metal content of Lead (Pb) and Cadmium (Cd) in bottom sediments and their relationship to the percentage of grain size and organic matter of sediments. Sampling was on 24 August 2021. Analysis of sediment Pb and Cd using the SNI 4819: 2013 method, organic matter using loss of igniation (LOI), grain size through sieving and pipetting. The results showed Pb concentrations between 3.708 - 6.149 mg/kg and Cd concentration below the detection limit (≤0.003 mg/kg). The distribution pattern of Pb metal was not influenced by grain size, but was influenced by the percentage of organic matter by 43%. The concentration of organic matter is in the range of 28.5% - 53.29%. The concentration of Pb and Cd in the sediment is still below the ANZECC quality standard, so the coastal waters of Loji, Pekalongan are still in an unpolluted condition.
Capillary blood parameters are gestational age, birthweight, delivery mode and gender dependent in healthy preterm and term infants
Authors: Perrotta Marika , D’Adamo Ebe , Strozzi Chiara , D’Egidio Claudia , Del Rosso Francesca , Maconi Antonio , Picone Simonetta , Giardinelli Giustina , Cepelli Laura , Cicolini Ilenia , Conte Mariangela , Bellinaso Mariangela , Negri Rossana , Gazzolo Francesca , Cassinari Maurizio , Abella Laura , Abdelhameed Ali Saber , Mangifesta Rocco , Gazzolo Diego
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The measurement of blood pH and gas analytes (BPGA), soon after birth, constitutes the first-line standard of care procedure in high-risk newborns. However, no data is available in capillary blood on perinatal bias such as gestational age (GA), weight at birth (BW), delivery mode, and gender. The aims of the present study were to investigate whether in a cohort of healthy preterm (PT) and term (T) infants BPGA were GA, BW, delivery mode and gender dependent, thus affecting BPGA reliability as diagnostic test.

Methods

We performed a prospective case-control study in 560 healthy infants (PT: n=115, T: n=445). BPGA was measured within 24-h from birth. Perinatal characteristics, outcomes, and clinical examination were also recorded.

Results

PT infants showed higher (p<0.001) carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO2), fraction of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), base excess (BE), bicarbonate (HCO3), and lower lactate (Lac) levels. When corrected for delivery mode, higher (p<0.001) HbF, BE, HCO3, and lower Lac levels were found. Similarly, higher (p<0.05, for all) pCO2, HbF, BE, HCO3 and lower Lac levels were found between female and male PT and T infants. Repeated multiple logistic regression analysis showed that BPGA was GA, BW, delivery mode and gender dependent.

Conclusions

The present results showing that BPGA can be affected by a series of perinatal outcomes open the way to further investigations providing longitudinal BPGA reference curves in the transitional phase, thus empowering BPGA role as a reliable diagnostic and therapeutic strategies efficacy marker.
A novel workflow for shale lithology identification – A case study in the Gulong Depression, Songliao Basin, China
Authors: Xu Liying , Han Ruiyi , Yan Xuehong , Han Xue , Li Zhenlin , Wang Hui , Xue Linfu , Guo Yuhang , Mo Xiuwen
Published: August 2024

The identification of shale lithology is of great importance for the exploration and development of shale reservoirs. The lithology and mineralogical composition of shale are closely related, but a small number of laboratory core analysis samples are insufficient to evaluate the lithology of the entire formation. In this study, a lithology identification method using conventional logging curves is proposed for the shale stratigraphy of the Qingshankou Formation in the Gulong Depression of the Songliao Basin, northeastern China. First, a mineral pre-training model is constructed using discrete petrophysical experimental data with logging data, and features are generated for the logging data. Second, an adaptive multi-objective swarm crossover optimization method is employed to address the imbalance of logging data. Finally, the model is combined with a Bayesian gradient boosting algorithm for lithology identification. The proposed method demonstrates superior performance to eXtreme Gradient Boosting, Support Vector Machines, Multilayer Perceptron, and Random Forest in terms of accuracy, weight perspective, and macro perspective evaluation indexes. The method has been successfully applied in actual wells, with excellent results. The results indicate that the workflow is a reliable means of shale lithology identification.
Update burn surgery: overview of current multidisciplinary treatment concepts
Authors: Schlottmann Frederik , Lorbeer Lisa
Published: August 2024

The treatment of severe burn injuries is an essential part of plastic-reconstructive surgery. Severe burned patients are treated in burn centers, which have highly specialized technical and personnel equipment. In addition to clear recommendations for prehospital management, intensive care therapy is usually required for extensive burn wounds. Shock therapy in burns primarily involves balanced fluid resuscitation according to hemodynamic monitoring, vasopressor support, pain management, temperature regulation, oxygen therapy, and comprehensive supportive care to stabilize the patient’s condition. Surgical treatment is still based on wound debridement and the gold standard of autologous split-thickness skin grafting. Besides skin transplantation, surgical management of burns may also involve the application of various topical therapies to promote wound healing, reduce pain, and prevent infection. These therapies may include antimicrobial dressings, skin substitutes, growth factors, or specialized wound care products. Once the acute treatment has been completed, multidisciplinary rehabilitation treatment takes place, which begins in the acute hospital and continues in the outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation areas. Surgical treatment of the secondary complications of burns and scars is also an important component of burn care. Comprehensive knowledge of the various components and players involved in the care of severely burned patients is, therefore, required in order to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.
Evaluation of the etiology of subclinical hypothyroidism in children
Authors: Yaşar Ayşe , Altun Esma Ebru , Kırmızıbekmez Heves , Dursun Fatma
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) is defined by normal free triiodothyronine (fT3) and free thyroxine (fT4) levels, elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, and the absence of overt clinical signs of hypothyroidism. The natural course of SH is influenced by the underlying etiology. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the etiologic causes of SH.

Methods

A total of 135 patients aged 1–18 years, diagnosed with SH by at least two analytical measurements, were included in the study. The anthropometric measurements, demographic characteristics, and laboratory findings of the patients were determined. A comparison was conducted between patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and patients with non-autoimmune etiology.

Results

The median age was 9.7 (6.5) years, and 82 of the 135 patients were female. The most prevalent etiology was idiopathic, affecting 39 (28.9 %) patients. This was followed by obesity, which was identified in 21 (15.6 %) patients. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis was the third most common cause, accounting for 18 (13.3 %) patients. In patients with Hashimoto’s disease, fT4 levels were significantly lower, and the rate of initiation of LT4 treatment was higher than in patients with other etiologies. A heterozygous variation in the TSH receptor (TSHR) gene was detected in six patients.

Conclusions

In our study, idiopathic cases were the most frequently identified in the etiology of SH. It is important to determine whether there is autoimmune thyroiditis. In cases of idiopathic SH, it is recommended to perform TSHR gene analysis, particularly in the presence of positive family history and newborn screening results. This approach will help elucidate the underlying etiology.
To go big, we have to go home: building foundations for the future of community-engaged and public-facing research in linguistics
Authors: Charity Hudley Anne , Mallinson Christine , Clemons Aris
Published: August 2024

In this article, we discuss various public-facing scholarly activities we have engaged in and how these initiatives have reached large audiences to widely spread messages about language and linguistic equity and inclusion. We provide guidance for how to launch, coordinate, and carry out public outreach initiatives and community-engaged research, how to navigate potential pitfalls and position these efforts for success, and how to demonstrate the direct value and relevance of the work. We also offer strategies and advice for other linguists engaging in public outreach endeavors, especially with regard to connecting community-engaged work with teaching and research for maximal impact within the scholarly ecosystem. Community-engaged research and public-facing initiatives are best conceptualized and undertaken in comprehensive, intentional, informed by, and planned in ways that align with best practices in the literature and integrated into the scholarly enterprise. We assert that public-facing work is critical to the relevance and impact of linguistics and higher education. Most importantly, public-facing work that makes insights from research relevant to the public can help advance the broader goal of education for social impact and the public good.
Outreach in coordinated individual events: the GCS format of CNR Italy
Authors: Carignani Elisa , Paci Augusta Maria , Borsacchi Silvia , Peruzzini Maurizio
Published: August 2024

Global Conversation on Sustainability (GCS) 2023 was enthusiastically welcomed by researchers of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR). Highly committed to international organizations such as IUPAC and ISC, the promoters participated to the 2023 edition of the Global Conversation on Sustainability hosting a local in person event held in one of the major CNR institute for chemistry research. The format was a round-table discussion involving colleagues of different age, gender, experience, and area of expertise, who participated to an informal dialogue with the aim of reflecting and sharing aspects of the respective research activities contributing to sustainable development goals. From many chemistry research areas, it emerged a wide range of subjects, which stimulated an interesting and purpose-oriented discussion. Therefore, GCS 2023 at CNR prompted a reflection on how improving chemists’ impact on sustainability including laboratories’ practises and on considering communication becoming part of scientific process. Transformation requires continuous investment in research and innovation and evolving scientific activities, but also requires synergies, collaborations and policy making on cross-cutting issues that can make this successful. Global initiatives as GCS, in the framework of international scientific organizations, represent a key global vehicle for enhancing the big area of science communication. Overcoming time and spatial limitations, these initiatives enable to link global and locally tailored in person events.
Development of a preparation method for Bronze Age flanged axes
Authors: Michael O. , Dieck S. , Wilke M. , Wunderlich C.-H. , Bunnefeld J.-H. , Meller H. , Halle T.
Published: August 2024

This project involved the metallographic examination of Early and Middle Bronze Age axes with respect to their manufacture and processing. The processing from casting to finished axe determines the microstructure and thus the properties required for use – in this case the combination of hardness and ductility – of the object. However, the objects under investigation are valuable cultural assets that must not be destroyed. For this reason, a preparation method was developed that allows the microstructures to be analyzed in a minimally invasive manner so that the objects can be restored. The investigations have shown that all objects have undergone a multi-stage thermomechanical treatment after casting, but to different degrees, resulting in different usability properties.
Corrosion of Reinforcement in Reinforced Concrete: Influencing Factors, Detection Methods, and Control Techniques—A Review
Authors: Wang Qihui , Zhou Xing , Sun Xiaofeng , Aslam Ruby , Wang Ruozhou , Sun Yi , Yan Zhitao , Li Xueming
Published: August 2024

Reinforced concrete is a widely used building material in construction. However, under specific corrosive conditions, reinforced concrete structures are prone to corrosion, leading to a gradual decrease in durability and eventual destruction. This review first discusses the causes and mechanisms of degradation of reinforced concrete, and then various factors causing concrete degradation are analyzed in terms of environmental, material, and design factors. Subsequently, it explores various detection methods and technical means to accurately monitor and assess concrete degradation. Furthermore, it discusses protective measures, such as coatings, corrosion inhibitors, and surface treatments, that have been developed. This study provides an overview of the field’s findings by referencing previous research. Finally, the review provides an outlook on the future development of corrosion detection and control technology for reinforced concrete. With the rapid development of material science, computer technology, and other fields, new corrosion control technology will continue to make breakthroughs and progress.
Experimental Pilot Thermomechanical Study of Lower Carboniferous Greywacke: Temperature Effect on the Rock Mass Properties Investigated up to 1,200°C
Authors: Brabec Marek , Krmíček Lukáš , Sokolář Radomír , Štetiar Juraj , Šimáček Roman
Published: August 2024

Greywacke, i.e., a non- to anchi-metamorphosed immature sandstone that contains more than 15 % clay minerals, occurs in most orogenic belts, with depositional ages ranging from Precambrian to recent. Our study focuses on thermomechanical rock properties of greywacke sampled in Kobeřice quarry (Lower Carboniferous Culm Basin, Drahany Upland, Bohemian Massif). Both relatively fine-grained and coarse-grained (with higher abundance of lithic fragments and small pebbles) intact rock core samples were tested. The experiment was divided into two sets. The first set made of the coarse-grained greywacke gave insight into the changes of properties across the whole temperature range, up to 1,200°C. The second set of samples was used to study the behavior of the fine-grained greywacke in the lower temperature range, up to 400°C. The lower temperature analysis showed an unexpected phenomenon at 200°C to 300°C, manifested by decrease in the strength coupled with higher values of deformation characteristics. These trends reverted at 400°C. The described phenomenon may have been caused by changes in water content combined with clay minerals composition alternation. Alternatively, it could be also related to the rock “paleotemperature memory.” On the wider temperature range, the greywacke holds relatively well to the lower temperatures, with the strengths decreasing slowly after 400°C and more rapidly after 800°C. At 1,200°C, partial melting at grain boundaries accompanied by formation of larger pores in the sample center was observed. Results of thermomechanical studies can be crucial during the design of underground constructions or for assessment of the fire damage on a rock-based constructions.
Bond Behavior of Seawater Sea-Sand ECC and GFRP Bars under Different Strain Rates and Bond Lengths: Experimental Study and Bond-Slip Modeling
Authors: Gao Shuling , Zhang Shilin , Zhu Yanping
Published: August 2024

The shortage of fresh water and river sand in marine areas has become a major problem hindering the production of concrete and limiting infrastructure development there. To this end, engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) were prepared by using untreated sea sand and artificially configured seawater. The tensile and compressive properties of ECC and the bonding properties between glass fiber–reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars and ECC were studied. The effects of ECC matrix type, bond length, and strain rate on the bonding performance were considered in the center pullout test, and a bond-slip prediction model was developed. The results indicated that replacing fresh water and desalinated sea sand with seawater and sea sand led to a significant improvement in the mechanical properties of ECC. Additionally, the bond strength and slip between ECC and GFRP bars were also improved. The bond strength of seawater and sea-sand ECC with GFRP bars decreased with increasing bond length (l) but increased with increasing strain rate (ε). Conversely, slip increased with bond length (l) but decreased with strain rate (ε). The dynamic bond strength and dynamic slip calculation models for bond length and strain rate are established, and the prediction model of the bond stress-slip relationship between GFRP bars and ECC for bond length and strain rate is proposed to provide a theoretical basis for the application of GFRP bars and ECC in structures.
Portfólio empresarial digital
Authors: Rodrigues Rosângela Hammes , Rauber Moacir Jorge
Published: August 2024

Neste artigo, objetivamos responder à seguinte questão: o portfólio empresarial é um gênero do discurso ou um suporte de textos? Para tanto, realizamos pesquisa bibliográfica e de análise de dados. Na parte bibliográfica, conceituamos portfólio, a partir de fontes diversas, e gêneros do discurso e suporte de textos, a partir de Bakhtin (2003) e Marcuschi (2003), respectivamente, com vistas a aproximar os conceitos citados. Na análise de dados, analisamos dois portfólios empresariais digitais, correlacionando-os às características de gênero e de suporte. Como resultado, consideramos que o portfólio empresarial constitui-se como um gênero do discurso, cujo nome provém do/remete ao suporte textual do portfólio analógico (impresso): porta-folhas. Assim sendo, a incerteza de se caracterizar o portfólio empresarial como gênero vem menos do fato de se ver nele características de gênero, mas antes da polissemia do termo portfólio, que pode significar um suporte de estocagem de uma coletânea de textos/folhas ou um gênero do discurso.
An Open-Label, Prospective, Single-Center Study of the Combination of Guaiazulene with Dimethicone for Dyspepsia
Authors: Marakhouski Yury , Zharskaya Olga , Karaseva Galina , Adamenko Elena
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims: Current therapeutic options for uninvestigated dyspepsia (UD) remain limited and unsatisfactory. Previous studies have shown that the combination of guaiazulene with dimethicone is associated with symptomatic relief and quality of life improvement in patients with gastro esophageal reflux disease. However, only very limited data are available on the use of the guaiazulene-dimethicone combination in UD. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate whether the guaiazulene-dimethicone combination provides symptomatic relief in patients with UD in Belarus. Methods: This was a prospective, observational, open-label, single-center, single-arm pilot study. Patients were treated with a combination of 3 g of dimethicone and 4 mg of guaiazulene administered as an oral gel, which was taken as a single-dose sachet thrice daily before meals for 28 days. The effectiveness of the guaiazulene-dimethicone combination was assessed using a simplified adaptation of the Short-Form Leeds Dyspepsia Questionnaire, which was self-completed by all patients at baseline and at Days 14 and 28 of the study. Patients’ satisfaction with the guaiazulenedimethicone combination was also assessed by a nine-item questionnaire completed at Day 28 of the study. Results: A total of 20 patients with UD were included. Compared to baseline, there was a five- and 27-fold increased odds ratio for improvement in dyspeptic symptoms after 14 and 28 days of treatment, respectively. A 66% relative risk reduction of dyspeptic symptoms was also noted at Day 28. Moreover, an overall patients’ treatment satisfaction rate of 70% was recorded. No adverse events were reported during the study, and all patients were compliant with treatment and correctly took the study medications. Conclusions: The guaiazulene-dimethicone combination was shown to be an effective and well tolerated therapeutic option for patients with UD. This study may be extended with further investigations. Keywords: Guaiazulene; Dimethicone; Dyspepsia; Patient-reported outcome Abbreviations: BMI: Body Mass Index; CI: confidence interval; FD: functional dyspepsia; GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease; H2RAs: Histamine-2 Receptor Antagonists; OD: Odds Ratio; PPIs: Proton Pump Inhibitors; QoL: Quality of Life; RRR: Relative Risk Reduction; SD: standard deviation; SF-LDQ: Short-Form Leeds Dyspepsia Questionnaire; UD: Uninvestigated Dyspepsia.
Phenology metrics for ocean waters with application to future climate change in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Brickman Dave , Shackell Nancy L.
Published: August 2024

Phenology metrics quantify the timing of seasonal events; future climate projections of changes to these metrics can be used in long-term ecosystem-based approaches to ocean resource management. Here a set of phenology metrics for ocean waters is presented. These metrics include three common ones: the onset of spring, the length of the growing season, and the onset of stratification. In addition, five novel metrics have been derived, including two that are based on the duration of thermal stress, defined as the amount of time that the future climate spends above the present climate maximum temperature; two that provide pelagic and demersal development indices by measuring the difference in time for a given number of present climate surface or bottom temperature degree days to arrive in the future; and a fifth metric that represents the absolute difference in a scalar quantity between the future and present climates. Spatial maps of the changes in these metrics for the mid-21st century have been derived from a high-resolution simulation of the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. A focus of this study was the application of the metrics to predict changes in ecosystem components in the future. Eight applications are presented for the Northwest Atlantic Ocean shelf region, describing predictions of shifts in the timing of inshore lobster migration; increased mortality, earlier spawning times and increased length-at-age for cod; reduced egg development times for shrimp; thermal stress on herring; and changes in habitat conditions for halibut and snow crab. This set of phenology change metrics serves as a starting point to illustrate the diverse ecosystem-related calculations possible using future climate ocean model output.
Problem solving ability based on Newman procedure in Team Games Tournament learning
Authors: Alhara Zepta Habib , Asikin Mohammad , Amidi Amidi
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this research were to describe about how was the learning quality of Team Games Tournament (TGT) in students' mathematical problem solving abilities, and to describe about how were students' problem solving abilities based on Newman's procedures. The research method used was a mixed method where students are subjected to TGT learning models. The population used in this study were students of class VIII in one of junior high school in Pekalongan in the even semester of the 2018/2019 academic year distributed in four classes and the sample used was class VIIIC. The subjects in this study was selected by using purposive sampling techniques with consideration that the selected subjects can represent each category of mathematical problem solving abilities. Based on the results of the analysis, it can be concluded that learning process of TGT that have been conducted in the research class is in accordance with the lesson plan and other support devices or tools that has been made by researchers. Based on observations made by the observer, the criteria obtained for students and teacher activities were very good. The average learning outcomes of class VIIIC students that were subjected to TGT learning model in students' mathematical problem solving abilities have reached mastery learning. Research subjects that have high problem solving ability generally know the location and cause of the error when working on a problem, research subjects that have problem solving ability are partially aware of the location and cause of the error when working on a problem, and research subjects who have low problem solving ability generally do not know the location and cause of the error when working on a problem.
Mathematical critical thinking ability in terms of mathematical anxiety in Smart Card assisted Brain-Based Learning model
Authors: Rohmah Naila Zulfatur , Mashuri Mashuri
Published: August 2024

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the Smart card-assisted Brain-Based Learning model against mathematical critical thinking skills,  to analyze whether the smart card-assisted Brain-Based Learning model is more effective than the Treffinger model for mathematical critical thinking skills, and to describe students' mathematical  critical thinking skills in terms of mathematical anxiety. This research applied quantitative method followed by a description. The population in this research were students of the seventh-grades on three of Junior High School in Ungaran in the academic year 2019/2020. This research applied the cluster random sampling technique as the technique for collecting the data. The subject of the research was selected from the experimental class. The researcher was used purposive sampling technique to select the subject of this research. The data was collected by using the test method, the questionnaire method, and the interview method. The quantitative data analysis used classical completeness test, mean difference test, and proportion difference test. The result of this study indicate that smart card-assisted Brain-Based Learning model is effective for mathematical critical thinking skills, but smart card-assisted Brain-Based Learning model is no more effective than Treffinger on mathematical critical thinking skills. In addition, the description of mathematical critical thinking skills in terms of mathematical anxiety is obtained that: (1) subjects with low mathematical anxiety are able to achieve the indicator (A) clarification well, indicator (B) assessments well, indicator (C) concludes well, and indicator (D) strategy well; (2) subjects with moderate mathematical anxiety are able to achieve indicator (A) well, indicator (B) well, indicator (C) quite well, and indicator (D) quite well; (3) subjects with high mathematical anxiety are able to achieve indicator (A) well, indicator (B) is quite good, indicator (D) is quite good.
Development of Android-based Interactive Learning Media on Statistics
Authors: Aziz Abdul , Amidi Amidi
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study is to develop and test the feasibility of android-based interactive learning media based on the feasibility of the validator's assessment from the material side and the media side. This type of research is R&D (research and development). The procedure used in this research and development is the procedure from Borg & Gall, which has been modified by the Puslitjaknov Team using three stages out of 5 stages, namely conducting a needs analysis to be developed developing initial products, and product validation and revision. The product of this research was assessed qualitatively, namely on a 5-point scale ranging from 1 to 5. So, the Likert scale was used for evaluation. This study resulted in an android-based interactive learning media that has been declared valid and feasible to be used as mathematics learning media by five validators from the material side who obtained an average score of 3.75 (good category) and five validators from the media side with a score an average of 3.64 (good category) with each maximum score of eligibility is 5. So, it can be concluded that the android-based interactive learning media developed is valid and feasible to be used as a mathematics learning media.
Grade 10 Namibian Learners' Strategies for Solving Algebraic Word Problems
Authors: Iilonga Hesekiel Kaukolwa , Ogbonnaya Ugorji I.
Published: August 2024

Solving mathematical word problems is a big challenge for many learners. One reason for the challenge could be the use of inappropriate strategies in solving mathematical word problems. In Namibia, many examiners’ reports show that learners do not attempt algebraic word problems fairly in examinations. This study investigated Grade 10 learners’ strategies for solving algebraic word problems in the Ohangwena Region, Namibia. The study followed a qualitative approach. A sample of 351 Grade 10 learners from ten secondary schools participated in the study. Krulik and Rudnick’s problem-solving strategies model was adopted as the framework that guided the study. Data was collected using the Algebraic Word Problem Solving Achievement Test and analysed using content analysis. The result shows that most of the learners could not use appropriate strategies to solve the given problems. Few learners employed one or two appropriate strategies in solving the problems. The strategies used by the learners to solve the algebraic word problems in the test include Computing or Simplifying (CS); Making a Table, Chart, or List (TCL); Making a model or a diagram (MD), and Guessing, Checking, and Revising (GCR). It is recommended that teachers model different strategies for solving mathematical problems for learners while teaching mathematics.  
 
Keywords – problem-solving, problem-solving strategies, algebraic word problem.
Development of a Pocket Book with Islamic Nuances Based on HOTS and Contextual Pythagorean Theorem
Authors: Andini Zayla Agatri , Andhany Ella
Published: August 2024

This research was a type of development research. The objective of this research aimed to develop pocket books with Islamic nuances based on HOTS (High Order Thinking Skills) and contextual material on the Pythagorean theorem and know how the feasibility, effectiveness, and practicality of pocket books with Islamic nuances with HOTS-based and contextual material on the Pythagorean theorem. The research model used in this study was the 4-D model. Data collection techniques used in stages were observation, interviews, questionnaire instruments from material experts and media experts, as well as teacher and student responses to HOTS-based and contextual pocket books and test instruments. The results of this study are in the form of pocket books with Islamic nuances based on HOTS and contextual material on the Pythagorean theorem that is feasible, effective, and practical.
Students' Mathematical Problem Solving Ability in View of Learning Motivation Through the MURDER Learning Model Assisted by Animation Videos
Authors: Faza Safana Aulia , Wijayanti Kristina
Published: August 2024

This research was carried out with the aim of analyzing the effectiveness of the MURDER learning model assisted by animated videos on students' mathematical problem solving abilities and describing mathematical problem solving abilities in terms of student learning motivation through the MURDER learning model assisted by animated videos. This research employed a mixed-method research approach with a sequential explanatory design model. The study population consisted of students from all Class VIII of SMP Negeri 6 Semarang for the academic year 2022/2023, comprising eight classes. The research sample was class VIII G, with 32 students, and class VIII F, with 32 students. The results of this research indicate that the MURDER learning model assisted by animated videos is effective for mathematical problem solving abilities. In addition, a description of students' mathematical problem solving abilities was obtained in terms of learning motivation. Students with high learning motivation meet all indicators of mathematical problem solving abilities. Students with moderate learning motivation tend to be able to meet the indicators of mathematical problem solving ability. Students with low learning motivation tend to be unable to meet indicators of mathematical problem solving ability.