Raw Specimens Research Articles

Analysis of FSW and TIG Aluminium 5052 Welded Joint Strength Due to The Effect of Working Temperature

Aluminium 5052 on ships can be used in LNG tanks, heat exchangers, bulkheads, and superstructures. Its characteristics that can be used in various types of construction in ships cause aluminium 5052 to meet various temperature conditions. The purpose of this research is to find out the strength of the FSW and TIG aluminium 5052 welded joints due to the effect of working temperature. The methods used are impact test and bending test of aluminium 5052 specimens immersed in liquid nitrogen at -160 0 C and heated in oven at 166 0 C. The average impact value of raw materials, FSW specimens, and TIG specimens immersed in liquid nitrogen at -160 0 C are 1.22 J/mm 2 , 0.2195 J/mm 2 , and 0.0663 J/mm 2 , respectively. The average impact value of raw materials, FSW specimens, and TIG specimens heated in an oven at 166 0 C are 1.3403 J/mm 2 , 0.1395 J/mm 2 , and 0.0870 J/mm 2 , respectively. The average bending stress of raw materials, FSW specimens, and TIG specimens immersed in liquid nitrogen at -160 0 C are 394.70 MPa, 85.82 MPa, and 299.49 MPa, respectively. The average bending stress of raw materials, FSW specimens, and TIG specimens heated in an oven at 166 0 C are 400.45 MPa, 148.58 MPa, and 318.55 MPa, respectively. Weld discontinuity observations shows that all raw material specimens do not have open discontinuities exceeding 3 mm, all FSW specimens have open discontinuities exceeding 3 mm, and TIG specimens shows varied results. The conclusion of this study shows that aluminium 5052 is a material that is resistant to temperature changes and is able to maintain its strength at various temperature conditions because aluminium is an FCC (Face Centered Cubic) material.

P-117 A novel method to select spermatozoa with the best morphokinetic characteristics and superior genomic integrity

Abstract Study question Can an automated device based on membrane electrophoresis be used to select spermatozoa with superior morphokinetic characteristics and lower sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF)? Summary answer Albeit at an expense of concentration, a membrane-electrophoretic device was able to isolate a proportion of spermatozoa with the highest motility, morphology, and genomic integrity. What is known already Conventional sperm selection based on density gradient centrifugation (DGC) can enhance the proportion of progressively motile spermatozoa; however, DGC methods are limited in their ability to select spermatozoa with higher genomic integrity. Membrane-based microfluidic technologies (MFSS) have already been used clinically to select for spermatozoa with a superior chromatin status; however, these methods are based on the intrinsic characteristics of motile spermatozoa capable of selecting themselves. By incorporating an extrinsic electrophoretic drive, membrane electrophoresis would overcome a limitation of progressive motility in the semen sample and be able to isolate viable gametes with better morphology and reduced SCF. Study design, size, duration From August 2020 to December 2021, semen samples from 68 men were evaluated by standard semen analysis and simultaneously processed by DGC or a novel membrane-electrophoretic sperm sorter (EPSS) to select for progressively motile spermatozoa. Concentration, motility, progressive motility, morphology, and SCF were measured and compared between raw, DGC-, and EPSS-processed specimens. Participants/materials, setting, methods Fresh ejaculates were evaluated by standard semen analysis according to WHO 2021 criteria. Following complete liquefaction, specimens were divided into two equal aliquots for DGC and EPSS sorting. SCF was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay under fluorescent microscopy; at least 500 spermatozoa were evaluated for each specimen with a normal threshold of ≤ 15%. Main results and the role of chance A total of 68 men with an average age of 38.1±6 years had the following average semen parameters: volume of 3.1±1 mL, concentration of 58.2±33 x106/mL, 43.3±9% motility, 40.5±9% forward progression motility, and a normal morphology of 2.9±0.8%. When comparing the final parameters between the EPSS and DGC methods, despite a reduced sperm concentration (7.3±9 x106/mL vs 45.0±36 x106/mL, P<0.0001, respectively), EPSS was highly selective for motile spermatozoa, yielding significantly higher motility (93.1±16% vs. 86.8±15% P<0.0001) and forward progressive motility (92.3±17% vs 85.2±15%, P<0.0001). Despite an overall lower sperm recovery rate (21.4±25% vs 75.4±17%, P<0.0001), normal morphology improved to 3.4±0.8% (P<0.0001) after EPSS but remained unchanged in the DGC-processed sample. Although both EPSS and DGC improved SCF from 12.2±9% in the raw specimen to 4.8±6% and 6.6±7% (P < 0.0001), respectively, EPSS outperformed DGC (P < 0.05). Moreover, the DGC method took up to 60 min to process, whereas the EPSS technique took a total of 6 min. Limitations, reasons for caution The selection of spermatozoa by EPSS is a promising technique to isolate progressively motile spermatozoa with enhanced morphology and superior chromatin integrity, albeit at a lower concentration. This is a preliminary study; the benefit and safety of this method must be further demonstrated by insemination or IVF treatment. Wider implications of the findings A membrane electrophoresis device may be a viable alternative method to MFSS to identify spermatozoa with superior morphokinetic characteristics and intact chromatin. Moreover, incorporating an automated device can reduce gamete processing time while minimizing labor costs and inter-operator errors. Trial registration number N/A

Research on Impact‐Induced Reactive Characteristics of Reactive Materials Under Low Air Pressure

AbstractReactive materials (RMs) are usually prepared from metal/non‐metal mixed powders through hot processing. The main feature of the material is that it will react and release energy when impacted. However, the impact‐induced chemical energy release during impact has a complicated mechanism and needs to be further explored. This work investigated the impact‐induced chemical process by split Hopkinson pressure bar and low‐pressure experimental system, different atmospheric pressure environment has been simulated. Moreover, High‐speed photography was used to reveal the macroscopic ignition phenomena. Furthermore, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) was used to study the material composition of raw and recovered specimens. The results of the experiments described here clearly show that metal reacts with oxygen and PTFE at atmospheric environment, which reaction produces are metal oxides and metal‐fluoropolymers. However, the material only undergoes fluorination reaction at low pressure, which reaction produces only has metal‐fluoropolymers. Meanwhile, the reactive ratio of the material increases with the pressure increase, furthermore, the maximum reaction ratio of the material in an atmospheric pressure environment is about 29.5 %, which reaction ratio is 4.7 times more than the pressure of 750 Pa.

Bedding Effect on the Deformation: Damage Differentiation of Coal Mass

In order to reveal the mechanical properties and damage mechanism of coal with parallel multibedding under stress disturbance, the raw coal samples with parallel multibedding were selected. The uniaxial compression and acoustic emission damage measurement were carried out using the coal-rock mechanics damage coupling test system, revealing the bedding effect of coal deformation-damage failure differentiation under different loading methods; based on the test results, a coupling characterization model of mechanical damage of coal and rock with parallel multibedding is established. The results show that (a) the acoustic emission of raw coal samples under different loading modes has obvious differentiation characteristics of bedding effect. When the vertical bedding is loaded, the peak stress of raw coal samples is relatively high and the acoustic emission activity period is relatively long; when the parallel bedding is loaded, the active degree of acoustic emission is relatively strong, and there is an obvious mutation period after the acoustic emission enters the acute period. (b) Under different loading modes, the difference in the influence of bedding on the fracture evolution of raw coal specimens is mainly concentrated before the stress turning point. In stage I, the acoustic emission b value of raw coal specimens decreases first, then becomes stable under vertical bedding loading, and decreases under parallel bedding loading; in stages II and III, the acoustic emission b value of raw coal samples showed the same change trend under different loading modes. (c) Combined with the basic principle of continuous damage mechanics and based on the difference of bedding effect, the relationship between cumulative acoustic emission ringing count and stress and damage variable of the raw coal samples was established. The rationality and effectiveness of the model are verified by experiments.

Estimation of the Radioactive Elements in Raw Materials Utilized in the Ceramic Industry, Anbar, Western Iraq

In the present study, The High-Purity Germanium system was utilized to Radionuclide concentrations of 10 specimens of raw materials utilized in the ceramic manufacture from the ceramic plant in Anbar, western Iraq. The concentrations ranged between 15.035-31.410, 11.330-33.870, 85.380-272.320 Bq/kg of 238U, 232Th and 40K, respectively, with an aggregate rate of 23.523±4.121, 23.616±5.308, 176.084±58.848 Bq/kg, respectively. The radiological aspects Were discussed by computing the gamma radiance parameters. Consequently, the qualitative activity level and gamma radiance parameters are less than the authorized Global Rate's worth of US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) standards. The prospective source of 238U, 232Th, and 40K in raw material specimens Has contained specimens a small number of radioactive minerals like monazite, chromite, zircon, tourmaline, titanite, and apatite, there are no appreciable radiation hazard indices to personnel's in the raw material department of the study region. The research recommends proposing new Iraqi standards that specify the permissible percentages of qualitative activity concentration also gamma radiance parameters to preserve the environment and human health, especially that the ceramics plant is located in Al-Anbar center.

Utilization of MgCl2 solution to control collapse potential of soil

Collapsible soil is categorized as problematic soil that creates construction difficulties in geotechnical applications. Extensive land development due to urbanization has increased construction on problematic soil which forced engineers and researchers to explore stabilization techniques to be used efficiently on such soil. In this study, different percentages of MgCl2 solutions were mixed with locally acquired collapsible soil and series of oedometer tests were performed to quantify collapse potential of raw soil and MgCl2-soil mix specimens. In addition, the effect of curing time on collapse potential were studied for samples cured at 0, 1, 3, 7 and 28 days. Results indicate that at a lower percentage of MgCl2 solution, longer curing time was required to reduce collapse potential as compared to the value obtained for the raw soil. Overall, 7% of MgCl2 and 28 days curing time results showed the best effect on stabilization of collapsibility of soil.

Multi-Modal Microfluidics (M3) for Sample Preparation of Liquid Biopsy: Bridging the Gap between Proof-of-Concept Demonstrations and Practical Applications.

Liquid biopsy, the technique used to shed light on diseases via liquid samples, has displayed various advantages, including minimal invasiveness, low risk, and ease of multiple sampling for dynamic monitoring, and has drawn extensive attention from multidisciplinary fields in the past decade. With the rapid development of microfluidics, it has been possible to manipulate targets of interest including cells, microorganisms, and exosomes at a single number level, which dramatically promotes the characterization and analysis of disease-related markers, and thus improves the capability of liquid biopsy. However, when lab-ready techniques transfer into hospital-applicable tools, they still face a big challenge in processing raw clinical specimens, which are usually of a large volume and consist of rare targets drowned in complex backgrounds. Efforts toward the sample preparation of clinical specimens (i.e., recovering/concentrating the rare targets among complex backgrounds from large-volume liquids) are required to bridge the gap between the proof-of-concept demonstrations and practical applications. The throughput, sensitivity, and purity (TSP performance criteria) in sample preparation, i.e., the volume speed in processing liquid samples and the efficiencies of recovering rare targets and depleting the backgrounds, are three key factors requiring careful consideration when implementing microfluidic-based liquid biopsy for clinical practices. Platforms based on a single microfluidic module (single-modal microfluidics) can hardly fulfill all the aforementioned TSP performance criteria in clinical practices, which puts forward an urgent need to combine/couple multiple microfluidic modules into one working system (i.e., multi-modal microfluidics, M3) to realize practically applicable techniques for the sample preparation of liquid biopsy. This perspective briefly summarizes the typical microfluidic-based liquid biopsy techniques and discusses potential strategies to develop M3 systems for clinical practices of liquid biopsy from the aspect of sample preparation.

Rupture properties and safety assessment of raw coal specimen rupture process under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing based on the source parameters and magnitude

To realize the safety assessment and risk management of the raw coal specimen rupture process under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing, the AE parameters and source parameters were obtained based on the AE monitoring of raw coal specimen rupture under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing. Throughout the process of hydraulic fracturing, the variation rule of AE parameters and the spatio-temporal distribution of the AE events induced by hydraulic fracturing of raw coal under true triaxial stress were studied. Then, based on the Brune model and grid search method, the source parameters and moment magnitude of raw coal specimens rupture under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing were obtained, and the relationship between the seismic moment and the other source parameters was analyzed. Finally, the source parameters relating AE events in raw coal specimens rupture under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing and micro-earthquakes induced by hydraulic fracturing were compared and investigated; the relationship between Mw (moment magnitude) and ML (local magnitude) of AE events of raw coal specimens rupture under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing was revealed. The results show that: the AE locating results are generally consistent with the actual rupturing of raw coal specimens. The source displacement spectrum of raw coal specimens rupture under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing is in good accordance with predictions made using the Brune model. By calculating the source parameters and moment magnitude, the source scale of hydraulic fracturing of raw coal specimens under true triaxial stress can be evaluated accurately. Source parameters such as corner frequency and apparent stress of raw coal specimen decrease linearly with the increase of seismic moment, and the source radius and source energy increase linearly with the increase of seismic moment; the stress drop tends to fluctuate around a certain value. The source properties of hydraulic fracturing of raw coal specimens under true triaxial stress can be evaluated. The seismic source properties relating AE events in raw coal specimens rupture under true triaxial hydraulic fracturing and micro-earthquakes induced by hydraulic fracturing are different. Considering Mw, ML1 can be better used to calculate the magnitude of AE events of raw coal specimens rupture during true triaxial hydraulic fracturing. These results can reveal the source properties throughout the rupturing of raw coal specimens during true triaxial hydraulic fracturing, and evaluate the safety of rupture process.

PENGARUH KARAKTER BAJA S45C PADA PROSES QUENCH – TEMPER

S45C steel is widely used in the industrial world, one of which is machining construction. problems that often occur in the engine components are worn out, broken, cracks that can be caused due to overload (over load), so the construction design is not as expected. With S45C steel is widely used in the industrial world, one of which is machining construction. problems that often occur in the engine components are worn out, broken, cracks that can be caused due to overload (over load), so the construction design is not as expected. With the above problems, it is desirable for a construction material that is hard and also resilient to prevent damage. Then in order to obtain good results, the components of the machines are then given heat treatment such as hardening which aims to improve the properties of the metal.From the results of testing the hardness obtained the highest value on the quenching test. In impact testing for raw material specimens with an average value of 0.811 J / mm2, in the quenching pesimen the average value was 0.483 J / mm2 and in the tempering tempering was 1.282 J / mm2. From the results of the impact testing, the highest values were found in the tempering templates. The microstructure of JIS S45C steel after heating undergoes a change in microstructure wherein the specimens of tempering ferrite and pearlite structures get smaller and spread, this is due to slow cooling, in contrast to specimens quenching because heat treatment is carried out through temperature and rapid cooling with water media so that the structure does not have enough time to diffuse.

A SPERM SELECTION TECHNIQUE TO IMPROVE EMBRYO PLOIDY

To assess the role of an enhanced sperm selection method in mitigating paternal contributions to embryo aneuploidy. Over the last 4 years, 57 couples underwent ICSI with sperm selected by density gradient centrifugation (DGC), resulting in few frozen embryo transfers (FETs) due to consistent embryo aneuploidy following preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). These men consented to sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF) assessment, inclusive of double-stranded DNA breaks (dsDNA) in their raw semen, as well as post-DGC and post-microfluidic sperm selection (MFSS). These couples underwent subsequent ICSI cycles with MFSS. Outcomes of cycles processed by DGC and MFSS were analyzed and compared. SCF was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl dUTP transferase nick-end labeling (TUNEL) on ≥500 spermatozoa per patient, with a normal threshold of ≤15%. A neutral Comet assay was used to assess dsDNA on ≥200 spermatozoa, utilizing a modified in-house protocol and a normal threshold of ≤3%. A total of 57 men had the following semen parameters: concentration of 40.0±32x106/mL, 37.1±11% motility, and 2.2±1% normal morphology. After selection by DGC or MFSS, the concentrations were 3.3±3.4 and 8.0±13x106/mL, with 58.0±29% and 96.9±9% motility, respectively (P<0.0001). The SCF decreased from 21±14% in raw specimens to 18±6% following DGC and to 1.9±1% following MFSS (P<0.001). The dsDNA fell from 3.6±2% in raw specimens to 3.1±1% after DGC and to 0.3±0.2% after MFSS (P<0.001). These men (40.9±6 years) underwent DGC selection for 71 ICSI cycles with their female partners (36.5±5 years), achieving a fertilization rate of 58.4% (403/690) and a blastocyst euploidy rate of 28.5% (47/165). Only 19 FET cycles were performed, with a 6.7% implantation rate (2/30) and two clinical pregnancies resulting in miscarriage. Subsequently, these men had their specimens selected by MFSS in 71 ICSI cycles, resulting in a higher fertilization rate of 75.9% (647/852; P<0.0001) and a much improved (P<0.0001) blastocyst euploidy rate of 48.9% by PGT-A (192/389). In 48 FET cycles, 51 embryos were replaced with an increased implantation rate of 60.8% (31/51; P<0.0001), a CPR of 64.6% (31/48; P<0.001), and an ongoing/delivery rate of 62.5% (30/48; P<0.0001). With its dsDNA component, SCF tangibly contributes to embryo structural chromosomal abnormalities. An enhanced spermatozoa selection method for ICSI appears to remarkably increase the proportion of euploid blastocysts with consequent successful clinical outcomes.

P–120 Selecting spermatozoa with the highest genomic integrity in order to enhance clinical outcomes in men with high DNA fragmentation levels

Abstract Study question What are the best methods of selecting spermatozoa with the highest genomic integrity in order to improve embryo implantation and term pregnancy rates with ICSI? Summary answer Testicular or ejaculate spermatozoa isolated by microfluidic sperm selection (MFSS) were characterized by superior genomic integrity with improved clinical pregnancy and delivery rates. What is known already In couples with unexplained infertility, a subtle male factor can often be identified. Both single-strand (ss) and double-strand (ds) DNA nicks and breaks hinder the ability of the male gamete to support embryonic development. Surgical retrieval of spermatozoa from the proximal male genital tract can prevent their exposure to oxidative stress. Moreover, use of membrane-based microfluidics chips has been shown to allow for selection of the most progressively motile spermatozoa with higher genomic integrity. Study design, size, duration Over the course of 48 months, 86 consenting men presenting with high sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF) in their ejaculate with prior ART failure underwent a subsequent cycle with specimens retrieved by testicular biopsy or ejaculate processed by MFSS. A concurrent TUNEL assay was performed on samples collected or selected by each method. Sperm specimens of both origins were utilized for ICSI cycles. Semen parameters, chromatin integrity, and pregnancy outcomes were compared between the two methods. Participants/materials, setting, methods Fresh ejaculates from consenting men were collected for standard semen analysis (WHO 2010). Testicular biopsy and MFSS were used to isolate spermatozoa with a higher genomic integrity after previous ART failure. SCF was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) on at least 500 spermatozoa under a fluorescent microscope with a threshold of ≥ 15%. MFSS was carried out by Zymot® chips. ICSI was performed in the standard fashion. Main results and the role of chance A total of 86 men (36.5±5 years) had the following semen parameters: volume of 2.6 ±1mL, concentration of 27.0±33 x 106/mL, 35.6±15% motility, and high SCF (24.1±10%). They underwent 146 ICSI cycles with their partners (maternal age, 33.7±3) resulting in a high incidence of pregnancy loss (100%; 13/13). Of those who failed to conceive, 22 couples used surgically retrieved spermatozoa (SRS) with a concentration of 1.8 ± 4 x 106/mL (P &amp;lt; 0.01), 5.0±11% motility (P &amp;lt; 0.01), and an SCF of 12.6 ± 6% (P &amp;lt; 0.0001). SRS was used in 37 ICSI cycles, yielding a fertilization rate of 61.6% (204/331, P &amp;lt; 0.01), an implantation rate of 10.6% (9/85, P &amp;lt; 0.01), a CPR of 23.5% (8/34, P &amp;lt; 0.01), and a delivery rate of 17.6% (6/34, P &amp;lt; 0.01). Another 24 couples underwent ICSI cycles with ejaculated spermatozoa processed by MFSS with a concentration of 1.8±3 x 106/mL (P &amp;lt; 0.01), but an increased motility of 99±1% (P &amp;lt; 0.01) and an SCF of 1.2 ±1%, lower than both the raw and testicular specimens (P &amp;lt; 0.0001). MFSS-processed specimens resulted in a fertilization rate of 76% (335/441, P &amp;lt; 0.01), an implantation rate of 26.3% (15/57, P &amp;lt; 0.05), and a CPR of 67.9% (19/28, P &amp;lt; 0.01), of which 15 patients delivered and 2 pregnancies are ongoing (89.5%; P &amp;lt; 0.01). Limitations, reasons for caution This is a preliminary study on a small number of subjects. A randomized prospective study conducted on a larger cohort would be required to confirm our findings. Wider implications of the findings: SCF severely affects pregnancy by impairing embryonic development, consequently promoting implantation failure. While retrieving spermatozoa from the germinal epithelium is a viable option, MFSS provides an alternative. Although MFSS requires an adequate number of sperm with good kinetic characteristics, it provides a more palatable option, reducing surgical risk and costs. Trial registration number Not applicable

P–118 A sperm selection technique to mitigate paternal contributions to embryo aneuploidy

Abstract Study question Can microfluidic sperm selection (MFSS) select male gametes without sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF) and double-stranded DNA breaks (dsDNA) in order to generate euploid conceptuses? Summary answer Couples treated by ICSI with MFSS had significantly improved embryo ploidy rates and pregnancy outcomes, demonstrating the efficacy of this novel selection method. What is known already SCF has been linked to infertility, specifically to embryo developmental and implantation failure. This damage can be both single-stranded (ssDNA) or double-stranded (dsDNA). Recent studies have shown that dsDNA in particular causes chromosomal aberrations and contributes to embryo aneuploidy, which leads to implantation failure. Study design, size, duration Consenting couples treated at our center by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with spermatozoa selected by MFSS were included. The majority of these couples had a medical history significant for elevated SCF, recurrent implantation failure, and embryo aneuploidy. ICSI clinical outcome, as well as preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) and frozen embryo transfer (FET), was recorded and compared to the couples’ historical treatments following sperm selection by density gradient centrifugation (DGC). Participants/materials, setting, methods From 2016 to 2020, 51 consenting men had their ejaculates screened for SCF levels by terminal deoxynucleotidyl dUTP transferase nick-end labeling (TUNEL) using a commercially available kit. At least 500 spermatozoa were assessed per patient, with a normal threshold of ≤ 15%. To screen for dsDNA, neutral Comet using a modified in-house protocol was also performed in a pilot study. At least 200 spermatozoa were assessed per patient, with a normal threshold of ≤ 3%. Main results and the role of chance A total of 51 men (average age, 41.0±8 years) had mean sperm concentrations of 39.0±33x106/mL, 38.4±12% motility, and 2.1±1% normal morphology. Following DGC and MFSS, the concentrations were 4.7±8 and 4.3±8x106/mL and the motility was 64.0±33 and 98.0±3%, respectively (P &amp;lt; 0.0001). The average SCF decreased from 20.1±18% in the ejaculate to 16±3% following DGC, but was 2.9±4% after MFSS. The dsDNA fell from 3.4±3% in raw specimens to 2.9±1% after DGC, and to only 0.5±0.7% following MFSS (P &amp;lt; 0.0001). These men underwent ICSI with their female partners (average age, 37.3±4 years), with sperm selected by DGC; they achieved a fertilization rate of 56.4% (337/597) with 26.0% euploid embryos (36/139). FET cycles from these embryos yielded an implantation rate of 8.3% (2/24) and a clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) of 15.4% (2/13), but both miscarried. These couples then underwent ICSI with MFSS, with a fertilization rate of 78.0% (588/754; P &amp;lt; 0.0001) and 50.0% (172/344; P &amp;lt; 0.0001) euploid embryos after PGT-A. A total of 37 embryos have been replaced, with an implantation rate of 67.6% (25/37; P &amp;lt; 0.0001) and a CPR of 73.5% (25/34; P &amp;lt; 0.001), with an ongoing/delivery rate of 70.6% (24/34; P &amp;lt; 0.0001). Limitations, reasons for caution While the oocyte contribution cannot be discounted, MFSS was able to yield spermatozoa that had the highest motility and ability to produce euploid embryos following ICSI. Wider implications of the findings: The genome and epigenome of the spermatozoon, and their contribution to reproductive outcomes, are being vigorously explored and scrutinized. Alternative approaches to gamete selection, such as MFSS, in couples with elevated SCF and dsDNA provide the best chances for future pregnancies by mitigating embryo aneuploidy. Trial registration number Not applicable

Effects of autoclaving on compressive strength of bovine bones and their use as chewing agents for dogs.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of autoclave processing on compressive stress of spongy and cortical bones, and the effect of autoclaved bones as chewing agents to reduce dental calculus in adult dogs. Spongy and cortical bones were autoclaved (1 ATM, 30 min, and 120°C) and compressive strength was evaluated in autoclaved and raw bone specimens. Autoclaved bones were offered to ten Beagle dogs divided into two groups of 5 dogs each: Group 1 – received a portion of the autoclaved bovine cortical bone (ACB) and Group 2 – received a portion of the autoclaved bovine spongy bone (ASB). Prior to the experimental period (1-d) and every two days thereafter, oral photographs were taken on both sides of the dental arch to evaluate dental calculus reduction over time. The vestibular surface of the canines, premolars, and molars teeth was evaluated using integration software to measure the proportion between the area covered by calculus and the total teeth area. The effect of bone type, treatment (raw vs. autoclaved), and their interaction were evaluated using the PROC GLIMMIX procedure of SAS (version 9.4). Linear equations were generated to estimate calculus reduction over time for ACB and ASB. Compressive strength was higher (P < 0.05) in cortical bones compared to spongy bones. However, the autoclaving procedure did not affect (P > 0.05) compressive strength, regardless of the bone type. The teeth area covered by calculus of dogs that were offered ACB reduced from 41% to 32% in 5 days, and at the end of 15 days a reduction of 62.2% was observed, resulting in a remaining of 15.5% of teeth area covered by calculus. In this group, the dental calculus area reduced by 57.7% after 5 days, and at the end of the trial, only 5.4% of teeth were still covered by calculus, which represents a reduction of 81%. The linear regression analysis revealed no significant difference between the slopes for the ACB and ASB equations (P > 0.05). No health complications such as tooth fracture, intestinal obstructions, and oral lesions were observed throughout the study. Our results demonstrated that the autoclave processing did not impair compressive strength of spongy and cortical bones. This corroborates with the results observed in vivo, which suggests that autoclaved bones are chewing agents for adult dogs with additional benefits of lower risk of bacterial contamination.

Flame Retardancy Enhancement of Jute Fabric Using Chemical Treatment

This work aims to improve the flame retardancy of jute fabric. Raw and bleached plain weave jute fabric was used in this work. Flame retardants borax, diammonium phosphate and thiourea were applied in different concentrations in a raw and bleached jute fabric with the padding method. The influences of flame retardant finishing on the vertical flammability behaviour and tensile properties as well as wash resistance were inves¬tigated. Flame spread time was found to significantly increase when these simple flame retardant finishing agents were used. It was found that the borax-treated raw and bleached specimens exhibited higher flame spread time among all. The assessment of physical properties such as weight gain percentage and breaking load along warp and weft direction of the control and treated fabrics revealed that the increase of flame retardant finishing weight gain caused a decrease in breaking load. Furthermore, the specimens treated with borax and diammonium phosphate flame retardant showed better results than thiourea for flame retardancy and wash durability. These flame retardant jute fabrics have industrial protective textile applications as brattice cloth in mines and many other potential fields of application, e.g. flame retardant kitchen apron, furnishings for public hall, theatre and hospital, etc.

Acinetobacter baumannii as a community foodborne pathogen: Peptide mass fingerprinting analysis, genotypic of biofilm formation and phenotypic pattern of antimicrobial resistance.

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is one of the most common Gram-negative pathogens that represent a major threat to human life. Because the prevalence of Multidrug-resistant biofilm-forming A. baumannii is increasing all over the world, this may lead to outbreaks of hospital infections. Nonetheless, the role of raw meat as a reservoir for A. baumannii remains unclear. Here our research was aimed to exhibit the frequency, precise identification, and genotyping of biofilm-related genes as well as antimicrobial resistance of A. baumannii isolates of raw meat specimens. Fifty-five A. baumannii strains were recovered from 220 specimens of different animal meat and then identified by Peptide Mass Fingerprinting Technique (PMFT). All identified isolates were genotyped by the qPCR method for the existence of biofilm-related genes (ompA, bap, blaPER-1, csuE, csgA, and fimH). In addition, the antimicrobial resistance against A. baumannii was detected by the Kirby-Bauer method. Based on our findings, the frequency rate of 55 A. baumannii isolates was 46.55%, 32.50%, 15.00%, and 9.68% of sheep, chicken, cow, and camel raw meat samples, respectively. The PMFT was able to identify all strains by 100%. the percentages of csuE, ompA, blaPER-1, bap, and csgA genes in biofilm and non-biofilm producer A. baumannii were 72.73%, 60%, 58.2%, 52.74%, and 25.45%, respectively. In contrast, the fimH was not detected in all non-biofilm and biofilm producer strains. The ompA, bap, blaPER-1, csgA were detected only in biofilm-producing A. baumannii isolates. The maximum degree of resistance was observed against amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (89.10%), gentamicin (74.55%), tetracycline (72.73%), ampicillin (65.45%), and tobramycin (52.73%). In conclusion, our investigation demonstrated the high incidence of multi-drug resistant A. baumannii in raw meat samples, with a high existence of biofilm-related virulence genes of ompA, bap, blaPER-1, csgA. Therefore, it has become necessary to take the control measures to limit the development of A. baumannii.

Pendinginan Pengelasan menggunakan Metode SMAW pada Kekerasan Baja Karbon ST3 dengan Media Serbuk Semen Putih dan Beban Rockwell 100kgf

Pengelasan merupakan bagian tak terpisahkan dari pertumbuhan peningkatan industri karena memegang peran utama dalam rekayasa dan reparasi produksi logam.Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh media pendingin terhadap kekerasan logam las dan logam HAZ (heat Affected Zone) yang diuji kekerasan menggunakan metode Rockwell. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada material baja karbon rendah ST 37 yang dilas menggunakan elektroda E6013 diameter 2,6 mm dengan sambungan tumpul, kemudian diberikan pendinginan menggunakan serbuk semen putih.Logam las yang didinginkan dengan media serbuk semen putih memiliki kekerasan yang lebih keras,karena semen putih mengandung C2S yang sulit terhidrasi dan tidak memilikin sifat panas.Setelah dilakukan pengujian pada beberapa titik maka didapatlah hasil berupa nilai rata-rata dari spesimen raw material adalah 48,3 HRB, pengelasan tanpa media isolator = 42,96 HRB dan HAZ =46,4 HRB.Spesimen yang menggunakan serbuk semen putih = 47,65 HRB dan HAZ = 48,2 HRB.Dilihat dari fenomena tersebut dan semen putih memiliki nilai kekerasan yang lebih rendah dari pada udara, dimana HAZ pada kekerasan nilai pada udara 46,4 HRB dan nilai pada semen putih lebih tinggi yaitu 48,2 HRB.

ICSI OUTCOMES USING SPERMATOZOA WITH OPTIMAL GENOMIC INTEGRITY

To test whether selecting spermatozoa with an intact genome enhances implantation and pregnancy rates in couples undergoing ICSI. During the past 3 years, semen specimens from consenting men with prior ICSI failure were screened for sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF) and double-stranded DNA breaks (DSBs). These tests were performed on raw specimens that were processed by density gradient centrifugation (DGC) and microfluidic sperm selection (MFSS). Couples underwent subsequent ICSI cycles with MFSS processing in order to select spermatozoa with the highest genomic integrity. Embryological and pregnancy outcomes were recorded in the study groups and compared to the historical cycles. Consenting men underwent standard semen analysis according to WHO 2010 criteria. DGC and MFSS were used to select spermatozoa with the highest portion of progressively motile spermatozoa. SCF was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) on at least 500 spermatozoa utilizing a threshold of ≤15%. DSBs were measured by a neutral Comet assay using a modified in-house protocol which assessed at least 200 spermatozoa per patient considering a normal threshold of ≤3%. ICSI was performed in the standard fashion. A total of 63 men with an average age of 41±10 years had the following average semen parameters: concentration of 26±31 x 106/mL, 33±14 motility, and 2±1% morphology. After DGC and MFSS, the sperm concentration was 18±23 and 8±13 x106/mL, with 55±33% and 97±9% motility (P<0.0001), respectively. The morphology remained 2±1% after DGC, and improved to 3.2±1% after MFSS (P<0.001). The SCF decreased from 24±8% in the raw samples to 19±10% following DGC, and fell to 1.7±1% after MFSS processing (P<0.0001). DSB rates were 4.1±1% in the raw samples, 3.3±2% after DGC, and only 0.3±0.1% after MFSS (P<0.0001). Men (n=39; 42±7 years) who underwent ICSI with their female partners (38±3 years) had an average SCF and DSB rate in their raw sample of 23±9% and 3.9±1.5%, respectively, which fell to 19±2% and 3.2±3% after DCG selection, and dropped to only 1.4±1% and 0.2±0.1% after MFSS (P < 0.0001). These couples underwent 25 reference ICSI cycles with DGC sperm selection and achieved a fertilization rate of 60.5% (98/162). The implantation rate was only 2.1% (1/47) with a clinical pregnancy rate of 5.0% (1/20), resulting in a pregnancy loss. These couples subsequently underwent 48 ICSI cycles with MFSS and achieved a fertilization rate of 73.1% (333/455; P<0.01). The implantation rate rose to 27.3% (26/95; P<0.001) and the clinical pregnancy rate increased to 53.3% (24/45; P<0.001), resulting in 46.6% (21/45) (P<0.0001) of deliveries/ongoing pregnancies.The pregnancy loss rate was 12.5% (3/24). According to our study, SCF is strongly correlated with sperm motility. MFSS is the only device capable of yielding the highest portion of progressively motile spermatozoa that therefore have the least amount of DNA damage. Spermatozoa with an intact genome are associated with improved embryonic development and implantation rates in couples undergoing ICSI.

Investigation and comparison of antibacterial property of bamboo plants, natural bamboo fibers and commercial bamboo viscose textiles

This study was conducted with 12 commercial bamboo viscose, conventional rayon, cotton fibers, 4 bamboo species and 12 natural bamboo fiber (NBF) samples to test antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The accuracy and efficacy of test methods were investigated and modified for antibacterial assessment. While the spectrophotometric method was found to be less effective due to low bacterial reduction, the revised viable plate counting technique was consistent and effective for samples in fabric, fiber or powder form. Results revealed that only one viscose product showed antibacterial activity but the majority of the specimens from bamboo plant species and NBFs showed a quantifiable percentage reduction of bacteria against K. pneumoniae (8–95%) but had more modest results against S. aureus (3–50%). As the quantity of bacteria promoting compounds is lower than bacteria-killing compounds due to processing; NBFs showed higher reductions of bacteria than raw bamboo specimens.

Molecular detection of type III secretory toxins in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates

Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been known as a common unscrupulous pathogen that reasons cause nosocomial infections in patients with immunocompromise. Infection with multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in many patients is a public health problem. The bacterium causes urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, skin inflammation and inflammation, soft tissue infections, bacteremia, bone and joint infections, gastrointestinal infections and various systemic infections, especially in patients with severe burns, cancer and AIDS, whose immune systems are suppressed. Among diverse virulence factors, the type III secretion system is known as a significant agent in virulence and development of antimicrobial resistance in P. aeruginosa. A total of 50 isolates of P. aeruginosa were gathered from burn wound and milk specimens. Documentation and antimicrobial susceptibility evidence were performed using the VITEK 2 system. Multiplex PCR was done to detect the secretion toxins-encoding genes. Out of 50 samples: 45/225 (20%) burn wound and 6/120 (5%) raw milk samples were found positive for P. aeruginosa. The multiplex PCR analysis of ExoT and ExoY genes showed that all P. aeruginosa 50 (100%) were positive. The occurrence of the ExoS and ExoU genes was 97.7% and 86.6% among clinical isolates while none of the raw milk isolates harbored the ExoU gene and 60% of them carried the ExoS gene. The results found 20 (40%) of isolates were multidrug resistance and the most effective antibiotics against clinical isolates were Ciprofloxacin and Meropenem. The aim of this study was to prevalence the exotoxin genes encoded type III secretion system and pattern of antimicrobial susceptibility of P. aeruginosa isolated from clinical and raw milk specimens.

Experimental investigation on the characteristics of transient electromagnetic radiation during the dynamic fracturing progress of gas-bearing coal

AbstractThere are extensive studies on electromagnetic radiation (EMR) effects during coal and rock deformation and fracturing processes, but few systematic studies on the EMR features of gas-bearing coal under impact failure circumstances. In order to investigate whether the EMR is affected by the gas (CO2,CH4,N2) sorption, coal type and impact energy, we performed a series of impact loading tests on both briquette coal specimens (BCSs) and raw coal specimens (RCSs) at various pore pressures (0–1.5 MPa). We developed a drop hammer test apparatus to allow impact loading tests on gas-bearing coal, and recorded the EMR signal of the damage of coal simultaneously. The result showed that (i) the amplitude range of the EMR signal generated by the impact damage of the gas-bearing coal is approximately 10–600 mV, with an effective duration time of 3–1500 ms and accumulated energy of 0.1–1000 μJ; (ii) when pore pressure is increased, the maximum amplitude, duration and pulse counts of the EMR decrease accordingly; (iii) the coal powder size and impact energy affect damage features and EMR characteristics, where a higher impact impulse causes more severe damage to coal specimens and (iv) the influence of the presence of adsorptive gas on the EMR signal caused by the destruction of coal bodies has both enhancement and reduction effects. During the early warning assessment of coal and gas outbursts using EMR parameters, not all the waveform parameters are sensitive to coal mine methane, but the significant effect of methane on signal volatility should be considered.