bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATION OF EARLY-AGE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE MASONRY UNITS
Authors: Abuowda Elen , El-Hassan Hilal , El-Maaddawy Tamer
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the results of the experimental study on the early-age (1-day) compressive strength of geopolymer concrete masonry units (GCMU). The binder was a combination of ground granulated blast furnace slag (or simply slag) and fly ash with ratios of 3:1 and 1:1. It was activated using an alkaline solution consisting of sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide at a mass ratio of 1.5. Additional water was added to selected mixes to enhance the castability and compactability. The effect of the mix design parameters on the early-age compressive strength of GCMU was investigated. Results showed that an increase in the binder-to-aggregate ratio increased the compressive strength by up to 57%. Similarly, increasing the alkaline solution-to-binder and slag-to-fly ash ratios led to 4 and 3.5 times higher compressive strengths, respectively. Meanwhile, additional water had a negative impact on the compressive strength of GCMU, decreasing it by up to 74%. Still, it was possible to obtain a 1-day compressive strength of 36 MPa for a GCMU having a binder-to-aggregate ratio of 1:5, slag-to-fly ash ratio of 3:1, and solution-to-binder ratio of 0.4. Such results provide evidence of the ability to utilize geopolymer concrete in the field of masonry construction.
MECHANICAL AND HYDRAULIC PERFORMANCE OF PERVIOUS RECYCLED AGGREGATE GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE
Authors: Anwar Faiz Habib , El-Hassan Hilal , Hamouda Mohamed , El-Mir Abdulkader , Kim Hung Mo
Published: June 2024

The widespread expansion of the global economy and the increase in human population have been major contributors to pollution and environmental complications. Construction and demolition wastes (CDW), impervious pavement surfaces, and industrial waste disposal sites have emerged as serious environmental challenges over the past decade. These challenges must be addressed through the synergic use of different sustainable practices, including pervious surfaces, CDW, and industrial wastes. Their combined utilization produces a pervious geopolymer concrete made with recycled concrete aggregates (RCA). This research aims to develop and assess the mechanical and hydraulic properties of pervious geopolymer recycled aggregate concrete (PGRAC) with a design porosity of 15%. The mixes were made with two binder blends of ground granulated blast furnace slag and fly ash (1:0 and 1:1) and RCA replacement of 0 and 100%. The mechanical and hydraulic performance were characterized by compressive strength and permeability, respectively. Results showed that pervious concrete made with natural aggregates and comprising a binder blend of slag:fly ash of 1:0 demonstrated 36% higher compressive strength than counterparts having a binder blend of 1:1. Meanwhile, the permeability was unaffected by the variation in the binder. At 100% RCA, the compressive strength of mixes having a binder blend of 1:0 was 192% higher than that of the equivalent mix having a binder blend of 1:1. Yet, the latter had 12% higher permeability than the former. These research findings demonstrate the ability to produce sustainable PGRAC for use in pavement applications.
OVERVIEW OF STUDIES ON EXTERNAL CONFINEMENT OF R/C COLUMNS USING UNIAXIAL GEOGRID
Authors: Bashir Ruba , Hamad Bilal
Published: June 2024

It has been established in the literature that using uniaxial geogrid as internal confinement for reinforced concrete (R/C) columns would improve the strength and ductility characteristics of the column. However, the potential of using uniaxial geogrid as external confinement remains largely unexplored. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of utilizing uniaxial geogrid as external confinement as compared to FRP external confinement, as well as various configurations of internal confinement, including uniaxial geogrid and stirrups. The assessment encompasses the analysis of axial load-displacement behavior, identification of failure modes, and evaluation of structural ductility through metrics such as fracture energy and energy dissipation. Test results indicate significant benefits associated with external confinement using uniaxial geogrid, including strength, ductility, and energy capacity. This study contributes to the progression of knowledge by illustrating the efficacy of uniaxial geogrid as an external confinement method for reinforced concrete columns. Additionally, it offers valuable comparative insights into different confinement techniques, informing the selection and design of optimal strategies for reinforced concrete structures.
FACTORS AFFECTING COMPETITIVENESS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Al-Kayed Anas Azzam , Rotimi Funmilayo Ebun , Purushothaman Mahesh Babu , Hoseini Ali Ghaffarian
Published: June 2024

In today's globalized and highly competitive construction industry, it is crucial for companies to have a deep understanding of competitiveness in order to survive. The competitiveness of the construction industry is influenced by a multitude of factors. As a result, construction organizations must improve their understanding of the relationships between these various factors that affect competitiveness. Thus, this paper aims to determine the factors affecting competitiveness in the construction industry through an analysis of relevant literature focusing on aspects that shape competitiveness in the construction industry. This systematic review explores these factors by analyzing 27 peer-reviewed English-language articles from 2003-2023. It found that the major factors affecting competitiveness are mainly under eight main themes: technological, organizational, human resource, and strategic factors, economic and political factors, financial factors, operational factors, and external factors. The review emphasizes the growing importance of digital technologies in the construction industry's competitiveness and provides guidance for future studies.
USE OF CONSTRUCTION INCENTIVE: SECTORAL DIFFERENCES
Authors: Ma Qiuwen , Cheung Sai On , Humphrey Steven , Lee Fong Chung
Published: June 2024

Incentive contracting has been developed to motivate agent teams to render extra effort. Typically, three types of incentive arrangements have been used: incentive/penalty for superior/under performance; risk/reward sharing; and future business opportunities. This study found that there are significant differences in the choice of incentive arrangements between private and public projects in Hong Kong. It is uncommon for public projects to use future business as a performance incentivizer, whereas private developers often signal repeated business together with heavy penalties to tie with their contractors. This study further identified various attributes affecting the use of incentives in both private and public engineering sectors of Hong Kong. The respective preferences were unveiled through a literature review, semi-structured interviews with industry experts, and a survey. The findings reveal that the public and private sectors consider the implementation issues regarding various performance targets critical to the type of incentives to be used. Whilst the primary concern of the public sector is accountability, the private sector is skeptical about the need to provide extra for the contractors for what they have already contracted for.
EXAMINING THE APPLICABILITY OF ALKALI ACTIVATED BINDERS (AABS) AS A LANDFILL LINER AND COVER
Authors: Almour Anwar Saeed , G. Arab Mohamed , Abdallah Mohamed , Alotaibi Emran
Published: June 2024

Landfill liner is a containment system used between landfill waste and the ground soil to prevent the migration of leachate into the soil and groundwater. Clay is typically used as a liner in the landfill barrier system due to efficiency and low permeability. Over the last decade, different types of binders such as cement, fly ash, and slag have been used with clay to improve the mechanical characteristics and reduce hydraulic conductivity of natural clay liners. This study introduced a new sustainable technique where treated dune sand mixed with alkali activated binder (AAB) made with fly ash (FA), ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS), and alkali activated solutions are used as a landfill liner system, due to the unavailability of natural clay in most countries. Therefore, lab-scale compacted specimens with different mixing ratios of AABs treated desert sand were prepared and cured for 7 days to conduct a series of compressive strength. The results showed that the 20% binder mixed with 30% FA, 70% slag, and alkali solution of 0.5 have a high compressive strength with 12 MPa compared with other mixing ratios. However, a 10% binder with same precursors ratio of FA and slag has shown a less strength regardless of alkali solution with around 3 MPa. Finally, all mixing ratios have shown that the strength met the requirements of landfill liner system which were greater than 200 kPa.
UNDERGROUND POWER LINES: ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL, VISUAL, ECONOMIC, AND SAFETY BENEFITS
Authors: Corizzi Kevin , Singh Amarjit
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the transition from above-ground to underground power lines in Hawaii, focusing on the severe threats posed by downed lines during storms, particularly on roadways where escape routes are critical. The research uses a comprehensive approach to explore environmental, visual, economic, and safety aspects. The study employed a methodology that involved reviewing powerline undergrounding studies in New York City and Florida, chosen for their geographical resemblance to Hawaii. Legal submissions from activist groups and current event articles discussing safety concerns in comparable geographical scenarios were also analyzed. Findings indicate substantial benefits, including minimized environmental impact on landscapes and ecosystems, heightened visual aesthetics, and economic advantages through reduced maintenance costs. Crucially, the shift to underground power lines significantly enhances safety during storms, preventing life-threatening scenarios on vulnerable roadways. This research underscores the urgency and practicality of adopting underground power lines in storm-prone regions, providing a compelling case for policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize this transition for communities’ overall well-being and resilience.
FINITE SHEAR STRAIN BASED ON IMAGE ANALYSIS FOR RECTANGULAR SECTION SHAFT WITH LARGE ASPECT RATIO
Authors: Kato Yasuyuki
Published: June 2024

This paper describes the shearing strain distribution obtained by using image analysis proposed in this study when large torsion is applied to a rectangular cross-section shaft. As is well known, the shearing strain distribution for rectangular cross-section shaft have already been investigated by Saint-Venant. However, since this theory is based on the assumption that torsional angle is relatively small, it is not necessarily rational under large torsion. Therefore, in our previous study, using the image analysis based on the Natural Strain theory, where the commutative law of strain is applicable and the rigid body rotation can be removed accurately from shearing strain component, the shearing strain distributions have been investigated for the rubber shaft having square cross section. In the present paper, these distributions are investigated for a rectangular cross section with a large aspect ratio rather than a square shape. In particular, these distributions on the long side in rectangular cross-section are compared with those on the short sides. Consequently, the difference between the distribution of shearing strain obtained by the image analysis in this study and measurements based on Saint-Venant's theory increases as torsional deformation increases and this tendency is observed particularly on the short side.
FLEXURAL RESISTANCE OF COMPOSITE BEAMS, EB AND NSM BONDED PLATES
Authors: Bruwer Carl Pieter
Published: June 2024

Existing reinforced concrete elements may need strengthening due to increased applied loads or due to deterioration of the reinforcement bars caused by rust, reducing the cross-sectional area. This study focuses on strengthening reinforced concrete beams by adhesively bonding steel plates to different positions of the tension zone, creating composite beams. Plates were bonded horizontally to the soffit; these are referred to as externally bonded (EB) composite beams. Plates can also be placed into a vertical slot cut into the soffit; these are referred to as near-surface mounted (NSM) composite beams. A comparison was drawn in this research study between the flexural resistance predicted by the mathematical model and the experimentally measured results. The predictions of the mathematical model compared very well to the experimentally measured specimens. The EB composite beams yield mathematical results 0.41% higher than the experimental results and the NSM beams 3.69% higher than the experimental results. The experimentally tested flexural resistance of the EB beams is 11.1% higher than that of the NSM composite beams, which is expected due to the larger lever arm of the internal couple to the bonded plate. An increase of 63% in the flexural capacity of the non-plated reinforced concrete beam over that of the EB composite beams was achieved.
STRENGTH DESIGN OF REINFORCED CONCRETE SECTIONS BASED ON A NUMERICAL OPTIMIZATION METHOD
Authors: Gao Wei , Yi Zhu , Guo Haosen , Ji Jun , Wang Qian
Published: June 2024

Reinforced concrete structures are widely used in construction of civil infrastructures. Classical methods are available for the analysis and design of reinforced concrete members, such as beams or columns, which are typically done by hand or using a spreadsheet program. In this study, an analysis and design approach of reinforced concrete sections is developed based on a numerical optimization method, and applied in accordance with the latest concrete design code. The basic idea of the proposed approach is to derive an optimization formulation in order to determine the minimum steel area required to support a given factored load combinations applied on a concrete section. A rigorously derived analysis and design framework of general beam sections is presented. For practical applications by civil and structural engineers, the readily-available optimization solver in Microsoft Excel spreadsheet is used. To illustrate the applicability of the approach, a numerical example with different analysis and design cases is studied. The proposed analysis and design approach using numerical optimization and spreadsheet solver works very well and is easy to implement in the Excel environment. The analysis and design results compare well with hand calculation results based on the classical method.
INVESTIGATING FIRE-INDUCED DAMAGE ON FIBER-REINFORCED CONCRETE SAMPLES USING NONDESTRUCTIVE EVALUATION METHODS
Authors: Mpalaskas Anastasios , Kytinou Violetta , Zapris Adamantis , Matikas Theodore
Published: June 2024

This research article investigates the effect of severe thermal exposure on the mechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced concrete specimens. Having been exposed to direct fire, the specimens undergo the fracture experiment to determine their mechanical properties. Fire-damage examination is performed with nondestructive techniques such as acoustic emissions (AE) and ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV). The main purpose is to demonstrate that AE parameters, such as amplitude, cumulative hits, and energy, have a strong correlation with mechanical parameters and temperature. Besides that, acoustic emission monitoring is also an assessment tool of the structural integrity throughout the entire loading process. The distribution of AE events and the variation of key AE parameters across the load process give very useful hints to differentiate between intact and fired-damaged specimens. The fact that the AE can be used on-site to determine cracks means that it may be used as an alternative method to describe concrete's mechanical properties after fire exposures.
Tecnologia acessível e sustentável na educação: experiências da robótica alternativa educacional
Authors: De Souza Elender Keuly , Dias Klenilmar Lopes
Published: June 2024

Este artigo aborda a importância da Robótica Educacional (RE) no contexto escolar, destacando a relevância da Robótica Alternativa Educacional (RAE). A motivação surge da limitação da aplicação da RE devido aos custos elevados dos kits educacionais convencionais, como Lego NXT e Mindstorms. A escassez de componentes e sensores adequados dificulta o desenvolvimento de experimentos avançados, requerendo investimento adicional. Essa situação é um desafio para quem deseja usar a robótica como ferramenta de ensino em todos os níveis educacionais. O artigo apresenta dois projetos que exploram a interseção entre educação, materiais reciclados, sucata eletrônica, tecnologia, cultura Maker e gamificação. Esses projetos desafiaram os alunos a aplicar o conceito de STEAM na construção de protótipos de robôs. Destacamos que os alunos obtiveram resultados significativos em feiras de ciências, torneios nacionais e internacionais de robótica. O trabalho busca abordar os desafios enfrentados pela RE, oferecendo soluções inovadoras e acessíveis para promover a integração da robótica no ambiente educacional através da RAE. A aplicação das metodologias da cultura Maker e gamificação enriquece a experiência dos alunos, incentivando o desenvolvimento de habilidades relevantes e a promoção do conceito STEAM.
Percepção de estresse e qualidade de vida em universitários no pós-pandemia
Authors: Lameu Joelma , Fernandes de Souza Wanderson
Published: June 2024

Trata-se de um estudo transversal com objetivo de avaliar a percepção de estresse e a qualidade de vida dos estudantes de graduação no retorno às atividades presenciais. Participaram da pesquisa 174 estudantes, de variados cursos da Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro. Utilizou-se como instrumentos de coleta a Escala de Percepção de Estresse (PSS-10) e o Questionário de qualidade de Vida (SF-36), além de um questionário sociodemográfico. Os resultados mostraram que 90,22% dos estudantes tinham uma percepção moderada de estresse e 9,77%, uma percepção alta. Nenhum aluno apresentou baixa percepção de estresse. Em relação à qualidade de vida, os resultados apontaram índices abaixo de 50% para as dimensões relacionadas à Limitação por aspectos físicos, Estado Geral de saúde, Vitalidade, Aspectos Sociais, Aspectos Emocionais e Saúde Mental, indicando alta limitação em todas estas áreas. A correlação encontrada entre as variáveis percepção de estresse e qualidade vida foram significativas (p<0,05), negativas e variaram de moderada a forte, em todos as dimensões, com destaque para a dimensão Saúde Mental, que apresentou forte correlação negativa com o estresse percebido (r=-,661; p<0,01). Assim como em outros estudos realizados com populações universitárias, foi encontrada predominância de estresse percebido mais alto no sexo feminino. Foram identificados piores resultados na qualidade de vida nas dimensões Capacidade Funcional, Dor, Estado Geral, Aspectos Sociais e Saúde Mental. A maior percepção de estresse esteve associada aos menores resultados em qualidade de vida, principalmente na dimensão Saúde mental. Os resultados demonstraram uma vulnerabilidade na saúde mental desses estudantes, associada à maior percepção de estresse, indicando a necessidade do aprimoramento dos programas de atenção psicossocial da instituição, com especial atenção às práticas de gerenciamento do estresse.
Espaço físico escolar e o processo de criação na arquitetura: a percepção do aluno na pandemia
Authors: Almeida Barbosa Luíza Chiarelli , Mendes Godoy Rosa Maria
Published: June 2024

Este trabalho tem como objetivo compreender o impacto do afastamento do espaço físico escolar durante a pandemia, para os alunos de Arquitetura e Urbanismo, no processo de criação nas disciplinas de projeto de arquitetura, urbanismo e paisagismo em uma instituição de ensino superior particular, em Curitiba. Aplicou-se questionário, mediado por TCLE – Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido, respondido pelos discentes, e fez-se entrevista estruturada com o gestor. A partir disso, evidenciou-se a importância do espaço físico escolar para o estímulo dos processos criativos.  Os principais efeitos do distanciamento físico foram interpretados, de modo geral, negativamente pelos alunos, professores e coordenação. Porém, as mudanças estabelecidas pelo Ensino Remoto Emergencial (ERE) concretizaram o ensino on-line das disciplinas de projeto, influenciando no surgimento de cursos de graduação nos moldes de Educação a Distância (EaD), reconhecidos pelo Ministério da Educação (MEC), mas ainda questionados e desaprovados pelo Conselho de Arquitetura e Urbanismo do Brasil (CAU BR). Nessa investigação, procurou-se contribuir para as discussões sobre o desenvolvimento criativo nos modos remotos recentes, nas possíveis situações semelhantes que possam acontecer no futuro, ou no refinamento de instrumentos educacionais. Mesmo sem esgotar o assunto, refletiu-se sobre as dificuldades da expressão criativa por meio do sistema remoto para os alunos, e compreendeu-se a significação dos espaços físicos escolares para as disciplinas de projeto.
Financial and Economic Aspects of the Problem of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders Socialization
Authors: Goncharova Nadezhda A. , Khaitova Alexandrina I.
Published: June 2024

The relevance of this work lies in the need to create prerequisites for overcoming the gap between the relatively deep development of medical and social, pedagogical, psychological aspects and the slurring in understanding the socio-economic aspect of the problem of socialization of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose of this article was to identify, based on the study of modern Russian and foreign studies, those conditions and circumstances that directly or indirectly set the direction and priorities in the formation of the socio-economic base for the socialization of a child with autistic disorder. And of course, this activity cannot be directed only at the child in isolation, it cannot but affect his parents. After all, such a family, in addition to their normal life activities, is also busy raising a “special” child with an ASD diagnosis. It should be taken into account that the socialization of such a child inevitably requires additional moral, physical, and, which for us is an independent subject of research, increased material and financial costs from parents. Final positioning concept is formulated in the paper.
Teaching preschool children to increase learning by using games
Authors: Thanh Tuyen Dinh , Doan Huong Dinh
Published: June 2024

Children up to the age of 5 are considered to be in preschool. At this age, children can be taught by playing. The methods used for children at this age; Game methods are central to making the child excited to learn, and without feeling that the child is being taught, he is taught things that can help him with life skills, logical intelligence, manipulation, and even problem analysis and division and prepare him to go to school and enter the society. In order to achieve this growth and ability, children need correct education with a plan and logic, but it is game-oriented. It does not tire the child in this matter and increases the spirit of play, happiness and learning in the child, and the child can follow the educational programs that the teachers have along with the game. In this study, the game as a valuable investment in the transfer of concepts and skills and one of the main elements in advancing the goals of education for children in preschool age, has been drawn and using the library method, the impact of the game on children's learning has been drawn from different angles.
Concepts characterizing the spiritual world of a person in phraseological units with onomastic component in tatar, turkish and english languages
Authors: Kajumova Diana F. , Sadykova Aida G. , Demirag Diana N. , Kh. Aleeva Gulnara , Khairullina Nailya R. , Khripkova Diana I. , Yagmurova Mehri S.
Published: June 2024

The article is devoted to comparative analysis of phraseological units describing the spiritual world of a person in Tatar, Turkish and English languages. The concepts of the spiritual world of man are of interest for studying the linguistic picture of the world of three different structured languages. The relevance of the research is determined by the fact that phraseological units are one of the most difficult studies in science linguistics. This study is devoted to the comparative consideration of concepts characterizing the spiritual world of a person through the prism of phraseological units in Tatar, Turkish and English linguistics. The study was conducted at the intersection of linguocognitive, anthropocentric, structural-semantic, communicative-functional paradigms involving a large volume of ethnocultural information of each language.
From Traditional Narratives to Literary Innovation: A Quantitative Analysis of Virginia Woolf’s Stylistic Evolution
Authors: Huang Lei
Published: June 2024

Virginia Woolf, one of the most renowned modernist British writers, left an enduring imprint on the literary landscape with her distinct and influential writing style. Her literary journey is characterized by an evolution, transitioning from conformity with Victorian and Edwardian literary conventions to pioneering a groundbreaking and experimental approach, notably employing the innovative technique of stream of consciousness. This investigation seeks to identify and quantify this transformation. To achieve this goal, I curated two distinct corpora representing Woolf’s early and later works and meticulously processed them using the multi-dimensional analysis tagger. Subsequently, a battery of independent samples was conducted to compare six distinct dimensions and then 67 linguistic features between the two corpora. This study uncovers a discernible evolution in Woolf’s writing style, with her later works displaying a lessened degree of persuasiveness, abstraction, and online communicativeness, and an enhanced degree of personal involvement and subjectivity. Our findings not only enrich our comprehension of Woolf’s literary development and accomplishments but also shed light on the broader context of the modernist movement and its profound influence on the modernist literary style.
Gender agreement in Italian compounds with capo-
Authors: Lami Irene , Micheli Maria Silvia , Radimský Jan , van de Weijer Joost
Published: June 2024

Gender inflection for animated nouns in Italian presents challenges influenced by societal pressures and linguistic structure, especially in morphologically complex words like compounds. The study investigates gender inflection distribution in compounds with capo- compared to other nouns (i.e., occupations traditionally performed by women, by men, and the word capo in isolation), exploring the interplay of social, etymological and morphological factors. 192 native Italian speakers inflected masculine nouns to feminine forms after hearing the stimulus. Results reveal that respondents’ attitudes towards gender-fair language significantly determine the use of feminine, indicating a complex interplay between linguistic structures and social perceptions. Despite historical resistance, the word capa in isolation shows increasing acceptance, challenging entrenched norms. In compounds, capo- element’s gender inflection appears more resistant due to morphological complexity, with an interaction with number. This study advances our understanding of gender inflection, with implications for broader conversations about gender representation and language inclusivity.
Assessment of the fetal thymic-thoracic ratio in pregnant women with intrahepatic cholestasis: a prospective case-control study
Authors: Agaoglu Zahid , Tanacan Atakan , Bozkurt Ozdal Burcu , Basaran Ezgi , Serbetci Hakkı , Ozturk Agaoglu Merve , Okutucu Gulcan , Kara Ozgur , Sahin Dilek
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To examine the fetal thymic-thoracic ratio (TTR) in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP).

Methods

This prospective case-control study was conducted in a single tertiary center. The sample consisted of 86 pregnant women at 28–37 weeks of gestation, including 43 women with ICP and 43 healthy controls. TTR was calculated for each patient using the anterior-posterior measurements of the thymus and intrathoracic mediastinal measurements.

Results

The median TTR value was found to be smaller in the ICP group compared to the control group (0.32 vs. 0.36, p<0.001). The ICP group had a greater rate of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (p<0.001). Univariate regression analysis revealed that lower TTR values increased the possibility of NICU admission six times (95 % confidence interval: 0.26–0.39, p=0.01). A statistically significant negative correlation was detected between TTR and the NICU requirement (r: −0.435, p=0.004). As a result of the receiver operating characteristic analysis, in predicting NICU admission, the optimal cut-off value of TTR was determined to be 0.31 with 78 % sensitivity and 67 % specificity (area under the curve=0.819; p<0.001).

Conclusions

We determined that the fetal TTR may be affected by the inflammatory process caused by the maternal-fetal immune system and increased serum bile acid levels in fetal organs in the presence of ICP. We consider that TTR can be used to predict adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with ICP.
Evaluation for serum glucose standardization in clinical laboratories of Southern China by consecutive 6 years proficiency testing based on JCTLM-recommended reference methods
Authors: Lin Xueying , Yan Qiaofang , Du Yuanyuan , Wang Jianbing , Huang Di , Yan Jun , Zhan Min , Zhang Pengwei , Cheng Jingyu , Zhang Qiaoxuan , Huang Xianzhang , Han Liqiao
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The accuracy of blood glucose measurement in clinical laboratories is vital for diabetes diagnosis. Trueness Verification Plan was carried out and analyzed for evaluating the standardization of serum glucose among clinical laboratories.

Methods

Trueness verification samples were distributed to clinical laboratories for three days measurement, and their target values were assigned by two certified reference laboratories. The relative bias, coefficient of variation (CV), and total error (TE) for each clinical laboratory were calculated and analyzed. Moreover, the Six Sigma metrics and Quality Goal Index were utilized to reflect the measurement quality of the clinical laboratories.

Results

The pass rates evaluated by bias, CV, and TE ranged from 45.2 % to 64.8 %, 96.8 %–98.9 %, and 83.9 %–97.1 % over the six years. The matched systems used in clinical laboratories demonstrated better accuracy than the un-matched systems. The pass rate by bias of hexokinase method is 53.1 %–78.6 %, while the glucose oxidase method is 29.2 %–52.2 %. Overall, 74.2 %–85.7 % of clinical laboratories achieved an acceptable level (both σ>3), and 35.2 %–61.4 % of laboratories reached a “world-class” level (both σ>6).

Conclusions

The quality for serum glucose measurement has been greatly improved. However, standardization among clinical systems still needs to be further promoted.
Quantification of collective signalling in time-lapse microscopy images
Authors: Dobrzyński Maciej , Grädel Benjamin , Gagliardi Paolo Armando , Pertz Olivier
Published: June 2024

Live-cell imaging of fluorescent biosensors has demonstrated that space-time correlations in signalling of cell collectives play an important organisational role in morphogenesis, wound healing, regeneration, and maintaining epithelial homeostasis. Here, we demonstrate how to quantify one such phenomenon, namely apoptosis-induced ERK activity waves in the MCF10A epithelium. We present a protocol that starts from raw time-lapse fluorescence microscopy images and, through a sequence of image manipulations, ends with ARCOS, our computational method to detect and quantify collective signalling. We also describe the same workflow in the interactive napari image viewer to quantify collective phenomena for users without prior programming experience. Our approach can be applied to space-time correlations in cells, cell collectives, or communities of multicellular organisms, in 2D and 3D geometries.
Crystal structure of dichlorido-bis(1-[(2-ethyl-benzimidazole-1-yl)methyl]-1H–benzotriazole) cadmium(II), C32H32CdN10OCl2
Authors: Yang Jing , Zhou Tan-Peng , Cao Meng-Meng , Wang Xia
Published: June 2024

C32H32CdN10OCl2, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 28.820(3) Å, b = 13.1075(2) Å, c = 16.7266(19) Å, β = 149.29(3)°, Z = 4, V = 3226.9(15) Å3, R

gt
(F) = 0.0341, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.0893, T = 293(2) K.
Spirituality in the Black Arts Movement
Authors: Bouallegue Nadjiba
Published: June 2024

The article investigates the significance of spirituality in the works of the Black Arts Movement poets. By examining the poetry of Amiri Baraka and Maya Angelou, the study uncovers the various facets of spirituality that African Americans embrace, including “Africanized” Christianity, jazz poetry, and Islam. The article aims to show if spirituality is merely a way to celebrate cultural diversity or a vehicle for social change. It draws on Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari’s theory of minor literature to demonstrate that the Black Arts Movement is a minor literature, whereby cultural markers such as spirituality are politicized. Because spirituality endows the Black Arts Movement with a political value and a collective enunciation, this movement becomes a revolutionary force that aims to enact social change. This politicized spirituality is symptomatic of a desire to foster a strong, positive bond with Africa, which is an antidote to the strangeness of mainstream society. The remembrance of the African past through Afrocentric spirituality is a tool for defining and redefining one’s sense of belonging. It is also a quest for an essentially black aesthetic.
RETOS ACTUALES EN LA ESTRATEGIA COMUNICATIVA DE LAS MARCAS DE MODA SOSTENIBLE EN EL MERCADO VALENCIANO
Authors: Martín López Raquel , De Paredes Gallardo Carla , Martínez Musoles Luz
Published: June 2024

Introducción: El estudio se enfoca en comprender los desafíos actuales en el sector de la comunicación que enfrentan las marcas de moda sostenible en la Comunidad Valenciana. El propósito principal de la presente investigación es entender los paradigmas que experimenta el usuario valenciano al adquirir esta categoría de prendas, para así enfocar la estrategia de comunicación de forma más eficiente. Metodología: Se utilizó un enfoque cualitativo a través del método Delphi, compuesto por un panel de doce expertos del sector de la moda sostenible en el mercado valenciano. Dicho método se llevó a cabo en dos etapas. La primera etapa se centró en identificar variables relevantes, para medir factores relacionados con la elección del consumidor valenciano de moda sostenible. En la segunda etapa, se presentaron los resultados de la primera para que los expertos pudieran buscar un consenso. Resultados: Se determinó que el coste adicional asociado al consumo de moda sostenible, en comparación con la fast fashion, no constituye una barrera para la adquisición de moda sostenible en el mercado valenciano. En cambio, se identificó que la principal dificultad radica en una comunicación deficiente o estrategias de marketing poco efectivas por parte de la marca. Conclusiones: El consumidor valenciano opta por consumir moda sostenible en función del conocimiento que tenga sobre la marca, más que por el precio final de venta.
Rahîmî'nin Şerh-i Risâle-i Muammâ-yı Suğrâ-yı Câmî Adlı Eseri
Authors: Ateş Gıyasettin
Published: June 2024

Edebî bir tür olan muammâ, Arap edebiyatında ortaya çıkmış ve Fars edebiyatında türün kuralları belirlenerek bu türün mahiyetinin ve olgun örneklerinin yer aldığı eserler ortaya konmuştur. Türk edebiyatında muammâ söyleyen şairlerin yanı sıra bu sahada yazılan Farsça eserleri tercüme ve şerh eden şairler de olmuştur. Fars edebiyatında muammâ konusunda eser verenlerden biri de Mollâ Câmî olup onun muammâ konusunda dört eseri bilinmektedir. Bu eserlerden biri de Manzûme-i Muammâ’dır. 66 beyitten oluşan bu eserin Türkçe tercüme ve şerhleri yapılmıştır. Bu şerhlerden biri de Rahîmî’ye aittir. Bu çalışmada Mollâ Câmî’nin Farsça manzûm olarak kaleme aldığı Manzûme-i Muammâ eserinin 18. yüzyılda Rahîmî mahlaslı birine ait Türkçe şerhi incelenmiştir. Şerhin sonunda bulunan tarih manzûmesinden hareketle şârihin Rahîmî mahlaslı biri olduğu ve bu şerhi 1117/1705-06 yılında kaleme aldığı anlaşılmaktadır. Bu dönem kaynaklarında muammâ ve lugazla ilgilenen ve meşhur olan Rahîmî, Habeşizâde lakabıyla meşhur olan Abdurrahim Rahîmî olduğu bilgisinden hareketle bu şerhin Habeşîzâde Rahîmî’ye ait olma ihtimali yüksektir. Çalışmanın giriş bölümünde muammâ türü hakkında temel bilgiler verilmiştir. İnceleme bölümünde Mollâ Câmî’nin Manzûme-i Muammâ eseri kısaca tanıtılmıştır. Devamında Şerh-i Risâle-i Muammâ-yı Suğrâ’nın şârihi olan Rahîmî’nin kimliği tespit edilmeye çalışılmıştır. Daha sonra şârih olabileceği kanaati hasıl olan Habeşîzâde Abdurrahim Rahîmî’nin kısa biyografisine yer verilmiştir. Yine bu bölümde tetkik edilen şerh eser ile ilgili şekil ve içerik hakkında elde edilen bilgiler, bu şerhin özeti ile nüsha tanıtımına yer verilmiştir. Çalışmanın metin bölümünde ise şerhe ait iki nüshanın karşılaştırmalı traskripsiyonlu metnin neşrine yer verilmiştir.
Vasfî Mahlaslı Şairlerden Nazillili Ali Gâlib Vasfî Efendi ve Bazı Manzumeleri
Authors: Baş Mehmet Şamil
Published: June 2024

Mutasavvıf şahsiyetler bir tarikatta sadece şeyhlik makamında oturmamış aynı zamanda manzum ya da mensur eser verme gayretiyle bağlı oldukları tasavvufî yolun inceliklerini anlatmaya çalışmışlardır. Söyledikleri manzumeler dilden dile aktarılmış, yazıya dökülenler gelecek kuşaklara yadigâr kalmıştır. Bu yolda eser kaleme alan mutasavvıf şairlerimizin çoğunluğu dini ve tasavvufî edebiyat sahasında dîvânları olan müelliflerdir. Divan sahibi bu müelliflerin büyük bir kısmının çalışmaları gün yüzüne çıkartılıp hayatları ve eserleri akademik çalışmalara konu olmuştur. Bu isimlerden biri Nazilli’deki Uşşâkî tekkesinin ikinci şeyhi Ali Gâlib Vasfî’dir. Babası Muhammed Zühdî Nazillivî, Abdullah Sahaladdin Uşşâkî’nin halifesi olup Uşşâkî tarikatının Nazilli’den bölgeye yayılmasındaki öncü isimdir. İlk hâlifesi Karacasulu Yemezzâde Süleyman Rüşdî olup diğer hâlifesi oğlu Ali Gâlib Vasfî’dir. Vasfî hakkında kaynaklar Arapça, Farsça ve Türkçe manzumelerinin ve külliyatının olduğunu ifade etmektedir. Ancak Vasfî’nin manzumeleri ve külliyatına dâir şimdiye kadar yeterli bir çalışma ortaya konmamıştır. 18 ve 19. yüzyıllarda 117 yıl yaşamış olan Ali Gâlib Vasfî’nin dağınık durumdaki manzumelerinin hangileri olduğunun tespit edilmesi önemlidir. Bu makale, Ali Gâlib Vasfî’ye ait olmadığı hâlde onun adına arşivlenmiş Vasfî mahlaslı manzumelerden Ali Gâlib Vasfî’nin manzumelerini ayırmak için Vasfî mahlaslı şairlerin kimler olduğunu tespit etmektedir. Ali Gâlib Vasfî’nin hatalı verilen vefat tarihini netleştirmiştir. Hayatına dair bilgilerle hakkında anlatılanları bir araya toplamıştır. Makalede son olarak Ali Gâlib Vasfî’nin değişik kaynaklarda yer alan 22 manzumesi tespit edilerek bu manzumelerin çeviri yazılı metinlerine yer verilmiştir.
Insights on epidemiology, morbidity and mortality of Cushing’s disease in Northern Ireland
Authors: Loughrey Paul Benjamin , Herron Brian , Cooke Stephen , Weir Philip , Smyth Jayna Elizabeth , Mullan Karen R , Healy Estelle G , Evanson Jane , Craig Stephanie G , James Jacqueline A , Korbonits Márta , Hunter Steven J
Published: June 2024

Cushing’s disease is a rare condition that occurs due to an adrenocorticotrophin-producing corticotrophinoma arising from the pituitary gland. The consequent hypercortisolaemia results in multisystem morbidity and mortality. This study aims to report incidence, clinicopathological characteristics, remission outcomes and mortality in a regional pituitary neurosurgical cohort of patients diagnosed with Cushing’s disease in Northern Ireland (NI) from 2000 to 2019. Clinical, biochemical and radiological data from a cohort of patients operated for Cushing’s disease were retrospectively collected and analysed. Fifty-three patients were identified, resulting in an estimated annual incidence of Cushing’s disease of 1.39–1.57 per million population per year. Females accounted for 72% (38/53) of the cohort. The majority (74%, 39/53) of corticotrophinomas were microadenomas and in 44% (17/39) of these no tumour was identified on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. Histopathological characterisation was similarly difficult, with no tumour being identified in the histopathological specimen in 40% (21/53) of cases. Immediate postoperative remission rates were 53% and 66% when considering serum morning cortisol cut-offs of ≤ 50 nmol/L (1.8 µg/dL) and ≤ 138 nmol/L (5 µg/dL), respectively, in the week following pituitary surgery. Approximately 70% (37/53) of patients achieved longer-term remission with a single pituitary surgery. Three patients had recurrent disease. Patients with Cushing’s disease had a significantly higher mortality rate compared to the NI general population (standardised mortality ratio 8.10, 95% CI 3.3–16.7, P < 0.001). Annual incidence of Cushing’s disease in NI is consistent with other Northern European cohorts. Functioning corticotrophinomas are a clinically, radiologically and histopathologically elusive disease with increased mortality compared to the general population.
ORGANIZATIONS OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AT THE PRESENT TIME INDEPENDENCE OF UKRAINE (2011-2017)
Authors: SHEVCHENKO Svitlana
Published: June 2024

The article is devoted to the disclosure of the organization of inclusive education for children with special needs in the era of Ukraine's independence. It is shown that it was significant for children with special needs that the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine decided: to approve the "Procedure for organizing inclusive education in general educational institutions." It was revealed that this Procedure determined the requirements for the organization of inclusive education in general educational institutions in order to realize the right of children with special educational needs to education at their place of residence, their socialization and integration into society, and involving parents in the educational process.
In the course of the research, a historical and pedagogical analysis of legislative documents related to the development of children with special needs was carried out, their necessity and significance in the era of Ukraine's independence (2011-2017) were highlighted; analyzed legislative documents on the development of children with special needs in the years of independence of Ukraine; their purpose is revealed, the significance in the socialization and adaptation of children with special needs to the surrounding world is shown; highlighted inclusive education as a separate model of an adaptation environment for children with special needs with the outside world.
Based on the study of legislative documents, it was established that the integration of children with special needs into the environment of healthy peers, as well as their educational and social inclusion, was a pedagogical phenomenon in the developed countries of the world, not only received scientific substantiation, but also firmly entered the system of education and public life, and in our country it was a novelty. The mode of functioning of such institutions for children with special needs was envisaged to provide constant professional psychological and pedagogical support and active rehabilitation work during study, but also in the afternoon using the professional potential, work experience of educators, who in most cases were experienced pedagogical workers.
Inclusive processes in education have a pronounced social and pedagogical essence, since inclusion is a modern, most effective form of socialization of children with special needs.
THEORETICAL AND PEDAGOGICAL BACKGROUNDS TO CHILDREN’S ASPERGER SYNDROME DEFINITION
Authors: MIZYTHRA Spyridoula , SOKOL Mariana , ROZLUTSKA Galyna
Published: June 2024

The article is dedicated to the study of theoretical and pedagogical principles of studying the concept of childhood Asperger's syndrome in order to improve the quality of education. It has been stated that Asperger syndrome refers to diffuse developmental disorders and was classified as a separate disorder first in ICD −10 (World Health Organization, 1992) and then in DSM – IV (American Psychiatric Organization, 1994). The aim of the study is to outline the theoretical preconditions for the definition of childhood Asperger's syndrome. In order to achieve the goal they have been guided by the theoretical and bibliographic method, for the study, generalization of scientific and educational literature. In order to systematize, specify the basic concepts of the study, identify features of Asperger's syndrome in the educational environment, the interpretive method has been used to rethink the role of children with Asperger's syndrome by social institutions in the educational environment, as well as to form a comprehensive understanding of this subgroup.
It has been defined that Asperger’s syndrome is a subset of the pervasive developmental disorder that is characterized by autism spectrum disorders, difficulty communicating and interacting, and stereotyping. A review of the literature showed that people with Asperger syndrome experience great difficulties in basic social behaviors, such as failure to develop and build friendships or to seek fun activities with others. They also have difficulty understanding non-verbal communication (body language) and facial expressions, postures and eye contact. The early recognition of Asperger syndrome is imperative, with the ultimate goal of continuous information and awareness of all health professionals, in the light of the interdisciplinary approach and the public towards it.
It has been concluded that Asperger’s syndrome is defined by a group of symptoms related to low performance in social interaction and communication skills, as well as increased stereotypical action in different activities and interests. Moreover, Asperger’s syndrome has some common with autism symptoms, such as unique peculiarities mainly in the linguistic and social fields.
FORMATION OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN WITH DISORDERS OF PSYCHOPHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT OF VALUE ATTITUDE TO LIFE
Authors: ADAMIV Maria , MATSUK Liudmyla , KUZENKO Оlexandra
Published: June 2024

The article reveals the theoretical and methodological aspects of the formation of a value attitude to life among preschool children with mental and physical disabilities. The structural components of this area of psychological and pedagogical activities are defined by the education of values to one's own "self", other people, health, nature and social reality. It is emphasized that preschool children with mental and physical disabilities have objective and subjective difficulties in the formation of a value attitude to life. The important factors in overcoming these difficulties are: organization of educational environment, play activities and communication of the children with their peers, humanization of educational communication, taking into account their psychophysical conditions and educational needs and opportunities.