bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypothalamitis: A Novel Autoimmune Endocrine Disease. A Literature Review and Case Report
Authors: Türe Uğur , De Bellis Annamaria , Harput Mehmet Volkan , Bellastella Giuseppe , Topcuoglu Melih , Yaltirik Cumhur Kaan , Cirillo Paolo , Yola Rima Nur , Sav Aydın , Kelestimur Fahrettin
Published: October 2020

Context

The relationship between the endocrine system and autoimmunity has been recognized for a long time and one of the best examples of autoimmune endocrine disease is autoimmune hypophysitis. A better understanding of autoimmune mechanisms and radiological, biochemical, and immunological developments has given rise to the definition of new autoimmune disorders including autoimmunity-related hypothalamic–pituitary disorders. However, whether hypothalamitis may occur as a distinct entity is still a matter of debate.

Evidence Acquisition

Here we describe a 35-year-old woman with growing suprasellar mass, partial empty sella, central diabetes insipidus, hypopituitarism, and hyperprolactinemia.

Evidence Synthesis

Histopathologic examination of surgically removed suprasellar mass revealed lymphocytic infiltrate suggestive of an autoimmune disease with hypothalamic involvement. The presence of antihypothalamus antibodies to arginine vasopressin (AVP)-secreting cells (AVPcAb) at high titers and the absence of antipituitary antibodies suggested the diagnosis of isolated hypothalamitis. Some similar conditions have sometimes been reported in the literature but the simultaneous double finding of lymphocytic infiltrate and the presence of AVPcAb so far has never been reported.

Conclusions

We think that the hypothalamitis can be considered a new isolated autoimmune disease affecting the hypothalamus while the lymphocytic infundibuloneurohypophysitis can be a consequence of hypothalamitis with subsequent autoimmune involvement of the pituitary. To our knowledge this is the first observation of autoimmune hypothalamic involvement with central diabetes insipidus, partial empty sella, antihypothalamic antibodies and hypopituitarism.
Civil Rage
Authors: Keymer Thomas
Published: October 2020

This essay approaches the Jacobite rising of 1745–46 as constituting, by most Enlightenment and modern definitions, a civil war, and considers the implications for poems written during or soon after the rising by William Collins, Hester Mulso (later Chapone), Tobias Smollett, and others. Classical tropes of civil war are among the literary features structuring these poems, which often take the form, more specifically, of odes, exploiting the formal capacity of the ode to dramatize internal division. Roman concepts of bellum civile and “Intestine Wars” (Pope’s Pharsalian expression from Windsor-Forest) are obviously to the fore. So, more interestingly, are the Athenian syntagmata recently emphasized by Nicole Loraux and, following her, Giorgio Agamben: stasis emphylos, an internecine conflict particular to the phylon, to lineage or blood kinship; haima homaimon, the murder of a blood relation, literally blood of the same blood; oikeios polemos, war within the household or among kinsmen. The common thread is the notion of murderous familial breach as a way of catching the paradox and horror of civil conflict while also indicating possible grounds of future reconciliation.
The Moral Negotiation of Fashion in Regency England
Authors: Vickery Amanda
Published: October 2020

Religion and the Georgian world of goods are rarely discussed in tandem. The modern history of consumerism is secular in conceptualization. The booming literature on the Georgian world of goods has engaged only glancingly with religious ideas. A series of prejudices about the Hanoverian Church has militated against sustained inquiry into the religious challenges of the Georgian world of goods. The strenuously Christian are conspicuously absent from the history of consumerism. The fashion victim and shrewd consumer matron have their historians, but what of the pious and judgmental? This essay brings two often disconnected schools of historical inquiry into conversation, through an exploration of the spiritual and material for two devout female Anglicans: Katherine Plymley (1758–1829) and Anna Larpent (1758–1832). It charts the negotiation of material ambivalence and the performance of both studied restraint and social status.
Thermal acclimation leads to variable muscle responses in two temperate labrid fishes
Authors: Moran Clinton J. , Jebb Kamryn E. , Travitz Leksi , Coughlin David J. , Gerry Shannon P.
Published: October 2020

Temperature can be a key abiotic factor in fish distribution, as it impacts most physiological processes. Specifically, temperature can affect locomotor capabilities especially as species are exposed to temperatures nearing their thermal limits. In this study we aimed to understand the effects of temperature on muscle in two labrids that occupy the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. When exposed to cold temperatures in autumn, cunner (Tautogolabrus adspersus) and tautog (Tautoga onitis) go into a state of winter dormancy. Transitions into dormancy vary slightly where tautog will make short migrations to overwintering habitats while cunner overwinter in year-round habitats. To understand how muscle function changes with temperature, we held fish for four weeks at either 5 or 20°C then ran muscle kinetic and workloop experiments at 5, 10 and 20°C. Following experiments, we used immunohistochemistry staining to identify acclimation effects on myosin isoform expression. Muscle taken from warm acclimated cunner performed the best, whereas there were relatively few differences among the other three groups. Cunner acclimated at both temperatures downregulated the myosin heavy chain, suggesting a transition in fiber type from slow-oxidative to fast-glycolytic. This change did not amount to a detectable difference in muscle power production and kinetics. However, overall poor performance at cold temperatures could force these fishes into torpor to overwinter. Tautog, alternatively, retained myosin heavy chains which likely increases locomotor capabilities when making short migrations to overwintering habitats.
“I felt like a TRIO champion”: end-user perspectives on their role as co-designers of multi-purpose technologies
Authors: Agot Kawango , Lutnick Alexandra , Shapley-Quinn Mary Kate , Ahmed Khatija , Okello Timothy , van der Straten Ariane ,   The TRIO Study Team
Published: October 2020

Background: The likelihood that research will be relevant to and accepted by end-users and their communities is enhanced when the perspectives of both the “researchers” and the “researched” are considered. The Tablets, Ring, Injections as Options (TRIO) Study, conducted with young women in Kenya and South Africa, assessed the acceptability and preferences of three placebo-only multi-purpose technology (MPT) forms for prevention of HIV and unintended pregnancy. The objective of this analysis was to assess whether, and if so how, the women participating in the TRIO Study perceived themselves as co-designers of the three MPT products.

Methods: We conducted 55 in-depth interviews, 6 focus group discussions, and 5 dissemination workshops with TRIO Study participants. Woven throughout these activities were questions and opportunities for participants to reflect on their role in the study, and to what extent they identified with their role as a co-designer. Qualitative data from these activities were analyzed thematically.

Results: The analysis revealed four key themes about what resulted in the women’s views as co-designers: altruism, respectful treatment, agency, and reciprocity. The women were aware of their role in determining what end-users would and would not prefer and were motivated by a desire to help themselves and others. They recognized their role as co-designers and cited being treated well by study staff, being given a chance to make choices during the study period, and being recognized as equal partners of the researchers as the main reasons.

Conclusions: If prevention products are going to be successfully developed, end-users and researchers must work hand in hand. Engaging participants meaningfully as co-designers in product development research can be a powerful tool in the effort to ensure new prevention products brought to market are acceptable to the population of interest.
Environmental safety of structural materials
Authors: Dmitrenko Vladimir , Gorbachev Sergey , Manuylova Natal'ya
Published: October 2020

The textbook provides a General idea of modern methods for assessing the environmental properties of materials, discusses the environmental aspects of the production of the main groups of structural materials, and suggests a method for assessing the environmental safety of the material, taking into account the full life cycle of products. Meets the requirements of the Federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation. For students of higher educational institutions studying in the areas of "Technosphere safety", "aircraft Engineering", "materials Science and technology of materials" and other aircraft engineering specialties.
Criteria for testing hypotheses about uniformity. Application manual
Authors: Lemeshko Boris
Published: October 2020

The guide discusses the use of statistical criteria focused on the testing of hypotheses about uniformity of laws, which belong to the analyzed sample, of the homogeneous medium (about equality of the mathematical expectations), about the homogeneity of variance (equality of variances of compared samples). The disadvantages and advantages of various criteria are indicated, and the application of criteria in conditions of violation of standard assumptions is considered. Tables containing percentage points and statistical distribution models necessary for the correct application of the criteria are provided.

This publication describes a broader set of criteria. Constructed models of marginal distributions of statistics for some sample criteria of law uniformity are proposed. Following the recommendations will ensure the correctness and validity of statistical conclusions when analyzing data. It is intended for specialists who are more or less faced with the issues of statistical data analysis, processing the results of experiments, and using statistical methods to analyze various aspects and trends of the surrounding reality. It will be useful for engineers, researchers, specialists in various fields (doctors, biologists, sociologists, economists, etc.), University teachers, graduate students and students.
Effects of community-based interventions on physical activity levels: systematic review
Authors: Guerra Paulo Henrique , Ribeiro Evelyn Helena Corgosinho , Lima Tiago Rodrigues , Andrade Douglas Roque , Loch Mathias Roberto
Published: October 2020

Aiming to evaluate the effects of community-based interventions on the physical activity (PA) levels in adults, in December, 2017 a systematic review was developed in five electronic databases (Pubmed, Physical Education Index, Scopus, Sportdiscus e Web of Science) and in reference lists, looking for community-based randomised controlled trials (RCT) with interventions aimed at PA increasing levels assessed by objective methods in samples of adults. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted version of the EPHPP instrument. Of 3,223 articles initially identified, nine composed the descriptive synthesis. Most interventions focused on inactive people and women. In view of the heterogeneity between the PA indicators, a descriptive synthesis of the data was chosen, thus, considering number of steps per day, four of five interventions showed statistically positive results. In regard of moderate-to-vigorous PA levels, two of five interventions showed potential results. Most of interventions were based on educational activities as practices of counselling, home visits and telephone support. Articles with moderate risk of bias were the majority in four of the five domains assessed. In conclusion, most of the studies included showed the potential of community-based interventions to increase the number of steps per day. It is important that future studies discuss operational strategies of interventions, such as counselling and home visits.
Assessing and Forecasting Cybersecurity Impacts
Authors: Couce-Vieira Aitor , Insua David Rios , Kosgodagan Alex
Published: October 2020

Cyberattacks constitute a major threat to most organizations. Beyond financial consequences, they may entail multiple impacts that need to be taken into account when making risk management decisions to allocate the required cybersecurity resources. Experts have traditionally focused on a technical perspective of the problem by considering impacts in relation with the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. We adopt a more comprehensive approach identifying a broader set of generic cybersecurity objectives, the corresponding set of attributes, and relevant forecasting and assessment models. These are used as basic ingredients for decision support in cybersecurity risk management.
Facilitating the adherence journey of children, adolescents, and adults on long-term growth hormone therapy
Authors: Tollerfield Sally , Criseno Sherwin , Fallon Miriam , Jennings Carly , Jones Julie , Marland Anne , Martin Lee , Ward Stephanie , Whitehead Amanda
Published: October 2020

Growth hormone deficiency in children and adolescents is treated with recombinant growth hormone injections, with the aim of helping patients reach a final height that falls within their genetically predicted adult height. While this treatment is very successful, overcoming issues of patient adherence is a challenge at each stage of the treatment journey, from early childhood to adulthood. An advisory board of senior endocrine nurses convened to discuss what strategies and tools work well in achieving adherence, and the best practices they identified—including the key strategies of choice, information, teamwork, and support—were presented at the 2016 meeting of The Endocrine Society. The advisers agreed that key steps to improve adherence include: patient/carer-centric endocrine nursing services, good-quality education and support, patient autonomy (where possible), broader treatment choice (in terms of device and self-injection), optimal follow-up from childhood to adulthood, and sharing of best practices.
A Nurse-Led Clinic Model for the Treatment of Cervical Dystonia Using Botulinum Toxin
Authors: Tyrrell Elaine G
Published: October 2020

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterised by sustained or intermittent muscle contractions, producing abnormal and often repetitive movements, abnormal posture or both. It is often accompanied by chronic pain, depression and anxiety. The treatment of dystonia is primarily symptomatic, designed to improve posture and function and to relieve associated pain. This can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (BoNT) injection, and deep brain stimulation (DBS). This article will focus on BoNT treatment, which is just one facet in the treatment of cervical dystonia. The involvement of clinical nurse specialists and the use of a nurse-led clinic can increase efficiency and effectiveness (namely, increased clinic efficiency and capacity, reduced appointment waiting times, and improved continuity of care for the patients), as well as patient access, education, psychosocial support, monitoring and, ultimately, empowerment. This article will discuss the key elements, considerations and benefits of setting up a nurse-led clinic for patients with dystonia.
The Consequences of Failing to Discharge the Duty of Candour
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: October 2020

Richard Griffith, Senior Lecturer in Health Law at Swansea University, considers cases that highlight the consequences for nurses and their employer of failing to discharge their professional and statutory duty of candour
Anterior approaches to the acetabulum: which one to choose?
Authors: Pohlemann Tim , Herath Steven C. , Braun Benedikt J. , Rollmann Mika F. , Histing Tina , Pizanis Antonius
Published: October 2020

Surgical treatment of acetabular fractures remains challenging even for experienced surgeons. Whilst the ilioinguinal and the Kocher-Langenbeck approach remain the standard procedures to expose the anterior or posterior aspects of the acetabulum, some modified anterior approaches for the stabilization of the acetabulum have been introduced. This article will provide an overview of approaches to the anterior aspect of the acetabulum and explain the efforts that have been made to improve the surgeon’s options for certain fracture modifications, such as fractures with separation of the quadrilateral surface.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:707-712. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190061
Proximal femur fractures in patients taking anticoagulants
Authors: Papachristos Ioannis V. , Giannoudis Peter V.
Published: October 2020

Thirty per cent of patients presenting with proximal femoral fractures are receiving anticoagulant treatment for various other medical reasons. This pharmacological effect may necessitate reversal prior to surgical intervention to avoid interference with anaesthesia or excessive peri/post-operative bleeding. Consequently, delay to surgery usually occurs. Platelet inhibitors (aspirin, clopidogrel) either alone or combined do not need to be discontinued to allow acute hip surgery. Platelet transfusions can be useful but are rarely needed. Vitamin K antagonists (VKA, e.g. warfarin) should be reversed in a timely fashion and according to established readily accessible departmental protocols. Intravenous vitamin K on admission facilitates reliable reversal, and platelet complex concentrate (PCC) should be reserved for extreme scenarios. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) must be discontinued prior to hip fracture surgery but the length of time depends on renal function ranging traditionally from two to four days. Recent evidence suggests that early surgery (within 48 hours) can be safe. No bridging therapy is generally recommended. There is an urgent need for development of new commonly available antidotes for every DOAC as well as high-level evidence exploring DOAC effects in the acute hip fracture surgical setting.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:699-706. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190071
A painful unknown: sacroiliac joint diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Le Huec Jean-Charles , Bourret Stephane , Thompson Wendy , Daulouede Christian , Cloché Thibault
Published: October 2020

The sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is a complex anatomical structure located near the centre of gravity of the body. Micro-traumatic SIJ disorders are very difficult to diagnose and require a complete clinical and radiological examination. To diagnose micro-trauma SIJ pain it is recommended to have at least three positive provocative specific manoeuvres and then a radiologically controlled infiltration test. Conservative treatment combining physiotherapy and steroid injections is the most common therapy but has a low level of efficiency. SIJ thermolysis is the most efficient non-invasive therapy. SIJ fusion using a percutaneous technique is a solution that has yet to be confirmed on a large cohort of patients resistant to other therapies.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:691-698. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190081
Diverse approaches to scoliosis in young children
Authors: Senkoylu Alpaslan , Riise Rolf B. , Acaroglu Emre , Helenius Ilkka
Published: October 2020

Management of scoliosis in young children needs a comprehensive approach because of its complexity. There are many debatable points; however, only serial casting, growing rods (including traditional and magnetically controlled) and anterior vertebral body tethering will be discussed in this article. Serial casting is a time-gaining method for postponing surgical interventions in early onset scoliosis, despite the fact that it has some adverse effects which should be considered and discussed with the family beforehand. Use of growing rods is a growth-friendly surgical technique for the treatment of early onset spine deformity which allows chest growth and lung development. Magnetically controlled growing rods are effective in selected cases although they sometimes have a high number of unplanned revisions. Anterior vertebral body tethering seems to be a promising novel technique for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis in immature cases. It provides substantial correction and continuous curve control while maintaining mobility between spinal segments. However, long-term results, adverse effects and their prevention should be clarified by future studies.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:753-762. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190087
The menisci and articular cartilage: a life-long fascination
Authors: Kopf Sebastian , Sava Manuel-Paul , Stärke Christian , Becker Roland
Published: October 2020

The menisci and articular cartilage of the knee have a close embryological, anatomical and functional relationship, which explains why often a pathology of one also affects the other. Traumatic meniscus tears should be repaired, when possible, to protect the articular cartilage. Traumatic articular cartilage lesions can be treated with success using biological treatment options such as microfracture or microdrilling, autologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT), or osteochondral transplantation (OCT) depending on the depth and area of the lesion. Degenerative cartilage and meniscus lesions often occur together, and osteoarthritis is already present or impending. Most degenerative meniscus lesions should be treated first conservatively and, after failed conservative treatment, should undergo arthroscopic partial meniscus resection. Degenerative cartilage lesions should also be treated conservatively initially and then surgically; thereby treating the cartilage defect itself and also maintaining the axis of the leg if necessary. Tears of the meniscus roots are devastating injuries to the knee and should be repaired e.g. by transtibial re-fixation. The clinical role of ‘ramp’ lesions of the meniscus is still under investigation.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:652-662. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.200016
Batch UV Disinfection for Small Flow Onsite Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Liu Kun   , Park Eunyoung   , Mancl Karen M. , Lee Jiyoung   , Tuovinen Olli H.
Published: October 2020

Highlights

The onsite batch UV disinfection system has potential to replace traditional flow-through system.

Advantages of UV batch UV system include lamp life savings and controlled dosage by controlling re-circulation time.

Higher re-circulation flow rate within batch UV system does not improve disinfection performance.

Batch UV system saves energy compared to flow-through system when daily circulation time can be designed for less than 2.5 hours.

Abstract. Many small flow and residential wastewater generators are not connected to centralized treatment facilities. Decentralized wastewater treatment systems require effluent disinfection to minimize the public health hazard associated with onsite reuse of the water. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of an onsite batch UV disinfection system for reuse of wastewater. The field tests were performed with residential wastewater that was treated by septic tank and peat filtration before UV disinfection. E. coli counts were reduced by 1.4 log after 2.5 h contact time. Circulation flow rates did not affect the disinfection efficacy. UV batch disinfection, with hours of operation, has potential to significantly inactivate pathogens but needs site-specific optimization for daily onsite wastewater treatment. Keywords: Clostridium perfringens, Coliphages, Escherichia coli, Onsite wastewater, UV disinfection, Wastewater reuse.
An In-Situ Rainwater Collection and Infiltration System to Improve Plant-Available Water and Fine Root Growth for Drought Resistance
Authors: Song Xiaolin , Gao Xiaodong , Weckler Paul Reese , Zhang Wei , Yao Jie , Wu Y , Zou Yufeng , Wu Pute , Zhao Xining , Siddique Kadambot H. M.
Published: October 2020

Highlights

An in-situ rainwater collection and infiltration (RWCI) method is a rainwater catchment utilization technique

RWCI is advantageous for increasing sustainable plant-avaibale water to increase drought resistance

RWCI significantly increased the amount of water and nutrients in the rhizosphere for uptake by apple tree roots

ABSTRACT. A two-year field experiment was undertaken to determine the spatial distribution of plant-available water and roots in soil profiles under two rainfall control systems—an in-situ rainwater collection and infiltration (RWCI) method and a semi-circular basin (SCB)—in apple orchards in the Loess Plateau of China. The results showed that the RWCI treatments with a soil depth of 40 cm (RWCI40), 60 cm (RWCI60), and 80 cm (RWCI80) significantly increased plant-available water in different seasons and depths and increased root growth of apple trees in the experimental soil profile (0–200 cm). At 0–200 cm soil depth, then RWCI treatments had significantly higher (91.86%-110.01%) mean plant-available water storage (PAWS) than the SCB treatment in both study years (2015 and 2016). From 0–120 cm soil depth, the RWCI60 treatment had significantly higher growing season mean PAWS than RWCI40 and RWCI80; however, RWCI80 had the highest from 120–200 cm. From 0–60 cm, the RWCI treatments had 25.84%-36.86% a smaller proportion of root system than the SCB treatment. However, from 60–120 cm, the proportion of root system increased by 131.53% (RWCI40), 157.95% (RWCI60) and 129.98% (RWCI80), relative to SCB. From 0–200 cm, the RWCI treatments had 1.49–1.94 times more root dry weight density than the SCB treatment. The highest concentration of fine roots occurred in the RWCI treatments. Thus, RWCI enabled roots to absorb more water and nutrients from a wider wetted area and improved drought resistance. Keywords: Drought resistance, Fine roots, Loess Plateau, Plant-available water, Spatial distribution.
Hargreaves ET0 Equation Regression Correction and Parameter Spatialization for Mainland China
Authors: Xia Xingsheng , Zhu Xiufang , Pan Yaozhong , Zhang Jinshui
Published: October 2020

Highlights

Correlation coefficient between ET0 calculated by the PM and the HE, = 0.9 at 95% stations.

Simple spline interpolation method more applicable than kriging interpolation for ET0 in mainland China.

Linear regression correction model for the HE suggested by the FAO was further validated in large scale.

Abstract. Reference crop evapotranspiration (ET0) is an important parameter employed in irrigation engineering. The Hargreaves ET0 equation (HE) is a simplified calculation method recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and is used to determine ET0. However, the HE is empirical, and thus, the FAO suggests that linear regression correction be conducted when applying the HE in new areas. To discuss the validity of applying the HE linear regression correction model combined with spatial interpolation methods to the Chinese mainland, this study used meteorological data released by the China National Meteorological Data Service Center and considered the ET0-PM calculated by the Penman-Monteith equation to be the true value. With respect to conducting a linear regression correction with the HE, a regression analysis of the multi-year average of mean monthly daily ET0-PM and ET0-HE calculated by the HE showed that the values were significantly correlated, and correlation coefficients and R2 of 95% of stations exceeded 0.9 and 0.8, respectively. This indicates that the HE linear regression correction model recommended by the FAO is applicable for use in mainland China. The accuracy of ET0-HE corrected by the linear regression correction coefficient combined with simple tension spline interpolation was the optimal and stable at validation stations, whereas the accuracy of ET0-HE corrected by the linear regression correction coefficient combined with simple ordinary kriging interpolation contrasts with the accuracy from existing studies. This study can be used as a reference in large-scale correction research using ET0-HE, and it lays the foundation for research and development relating to spatiotemporal ET0 data products. Keywords: Coefficient modification, Linear regression model, Reference crop evapotranspiration, Spatial interpolation.
Performance Comparison of Three Density-Independent Calibration Functions for Microwave Moisture Sensing in Unshelled Peanuts during Drying
Authors: Lewis Micah A. , Trabelsi Samir
Published: October 2020

Highlights

Real-time, free-space transmission measurements of relative complex permittivity in unshelled peanuts during drying

Dynamic application: temperature, density and moisture content changing during drying

Three density-independent calibration functions evaluated for accuracy in real-time moisture content determination

Real-time moisture content determination with standard error of performance (SEP) = 0.55% moisture content for all calibration functions

Calibration function most commonly used with microwave moisture sensor was determined to be most accurate; SEP = 0.448% moisture content

Abstract. A microwave moisture sensor, developed within USDA ARS, has been used to determine moisture content in unshelled peanuts during drying. Relative complex permittivities of the peanuts obtained from free-space transmission measurements at 5.8 GHz are used for the moisture determination. Due to variations in density caused by drying, it is advantageous to estimate moisture content independent of bulk density. Therefore, moisture content was estimated with three density-independent calibration functions to assess which one provided optimal accuracy. One of the functions is based on the measured attenuation and phase shift, and the other two are permittivity based (one of which is commonly used with the microwave moisture sensor). The sensor was calibrated for peanut pod moisture content determination over a temperature range of 10°C to 40°C and a moisture content range of 6.5% to 19% wet basis (w.b.). Statistical analysis showed high coefficients of determination (r2), = 0.97 for the calibration with each function. Peanut pod moisture content was determined with the sensor in real-time as peanuts dried, and estimated moisture content was compared to the reference oven drying method. While the standard error of performance (SEP) for the three functions was = 0.55% moisture content, the calibration function most commonly used with the microwave sensor was observed to be the most accurate (SEP = 0.448% moisture content). Microwave sensing is a viable solution for nondestructive, real-time determination of moisture content in peanuts in dynamic situations such as drying. Keywords: Complex permittivity, Dielectric properties, Free-space measurements, Microwave sensing, Moisture content, Peanut drying.
Discrimination of Pepper Seed Varieties by Multispectral Imaging Combined with Machine Learning
Authors: Li Xingwang , Fan Xiaofei , Zhao Lili , Huang Sheng , He Yi , Suo Xuesong
Published: October 2020

Highlights

This study revealed the feasibility of to classify pepper seed varieties using multispectral imaging combined with one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN).

Convolutional neural networks were adopted to develop models for prediction of seed varieties, and the performance was compared with KNN and SVM.

In this experiment, the classification effect of the SVM classification model is the best, but the 1D-CNN classification model is relatively easy to implement.

Abstract. When non-seed materials are mixed in seeds or seed varieties of low value are mixed in high value varieties, it will cause losses to growers or businesses. Thus, the successful discrimination of seed varieties is critical for improvement of seed ralue. In recent years, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been used in classification of seed varieties. The feasibility of using multispectral imaging combined with one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) to classify pepper seed varieties was studied. The total number of three varieties of samples was 1472, and the average spectral curve between 365nm and 970nm of the three varieties was studied. The data were analyzed using full bands of the spectrum or the feature bands selected by successive projection algorithm (SPA). SPA extracted 9 feature bands from 19 bands (430, 450, 470, 490, 515, 570, 660, 780, and 880 nm). The classification accuracy of the three classification models developed with full band using K nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), and 1D-CNN were 85.81%, 97.70%, and 90.50%, respectively. With full bands, SVM and 1D-CNN performed significantly better than KNN, and SVM performed slightly better than 1D-CNN. With feature bands, the testing accuracies of SVM and 1D-CNN were 97.30% and 92.6%, respectively. Although the classification accuracy of 1D-CNN was not the highest, the ease of operation made it the most feasible method for pepper seed variety prediction. Keywords: Multispectral imaging, One-dimensional convolutional neural network, Pepper seed, Variety classification.
Impact of Planter Closing Wheels on Corn Emergence in No-Till Systems
Authors: Drewry Jessica L , Luck Brian D. , Arriaga Francisco J.
Published: October 2020

Highlights

Aftermarket closing wheels increased corn emergence by 2% over standard rubber wheels.

Yield was not significant by closing wheel type.

Abstract. Producers are increasingly adopting cover crops and no-till planting for a variety of reasons including improving soil fertility and reducing energy inputs. However, adopting these practices may require changes in equipment and management strategy; therefore, research is needed to develop best practices for producers to reduce the risk and encourage adoption. The use of aftermarket closing wheels has been cited as a method to improve emergence under no-till conditions as preparing an ideal seedbed can be more difficult under these conditions due to limited seed-soil contact and side wall compaction. The effect of three aftermarket and the standard rubber closing wheels on emergence and yield under no-till planting of corn into heavy crop residue or cover crops was measured at three Wisconsin locations using a randomized complete block experimental design. Soil temperature and moisture was also monitored during the growing season. Corn plant emergence was measured at least three times to estimate the rate of emergence as a function of growing degree units using air and soil temperatures. The final emergence of corn planted with an aftermarket wheel was found to be significantly higher than the standard rubber closing wheel (p=0.069, a=0.1) across all locations. Yield was not found to be significant by wheel type most likely due to differences in field history and in season management practices. Keywords: Closing wheel, Cover crop, Emergence, No-till, Planter set-up.
Fissuring Kinetics of Rough Rice during the Drying Process
Authors: Odek Zephania R. , Siebenmorgen Terry J. , Saxena Ashok
Published: October 2020

Highlights

Drying rough rice using harsh air conditions causes fissures to appear instantaneously during active drying.

For mild drying air conditions, a time interval is required after the cessation of active drying before fissures appear.

The majority of fissures due to active drying in rough rice kernels appear after drying has ceased.

Abstract. Fissuring of rough rice kernels leads to breakage during milling, which results in head rice yield reductions. While other studies have addressed the fissuring kinetics of milled rice kernels, rice is normally dried and stored as rough rice. Thus, the objective of this research was to study the fissuring kinetics of rough rice kernels during the drying process and to characterize the configuration of the fissures. Rough rice kernels of cultivar CL XL745 with a bulk moisture content of 17% were dried using air at 40°C, 50°C, and 60°C each at relative humidity (RH) levels of 20%, 40%, and 60%. During the drying process (drying, tempering, and subsequent storage), X-ray images of rice kernels were recorded to enumerate fissures. As the drying air temperature was increased, the percentage of fissured kernels increased for all RHs evaluated. Conversely, as RH was increased, the percentage of fissured kernels decreased. Approximately 90% of fissures appeared after drying had ceased, increasing rapidly in the initial 6 h after drying. Kernels dried at high-temperature, low-RH drying air combinations had fissuring occur and appear instantaneously during active drying. In low-temperature drying conditions, fissures did not appear during active drying. Fissuring under such conditions required a time delay after active drying. This study shows the stages of the drying process when fissures appear in rough rice and the durations after active drying when fissures are expected to appear. Keywords: Glass transition, Post-drying, Relative humidity, Rice drying, Temperature, Tempering, X-ray imaging.
Optical scanning Fourier ptychographic microscopy
Authors: Wang Lin , Song Qihao , Zhang Hongbo , Yuan Caojin , Poon Ting-Chung
Published: October 2020

We propose a lower-cost and practical active scanning optical scanning Fourier ptychographic microscopy (OSFPM). Featured is a simple setup of Galvo mirrors capable of scanning large-sized objects. The active scanning laser beam is projected onto the sample in a circular pattern to form multiple lower-resolution images. With multiple lower-resolution images, a higher-resolution image is subsequently reconstructed. The OSFPM is able to more precisely control the overlap of the incident light illumination as compared to that in conventional LED-based or other laser-based scanning FPM systems. The proposed microscope is also suitable for applications where a larger size of the object needs to be imaged with efficient illumination.
Analysis of factors affecting measurement accuracy and establishment of an optimal measurement strategy of a laser displacement sensor
Authors: Ma Xiaofan , Cai Zhiqin , Yao Bin , Cai Sijie , Lu Jie
Published: October 2020

Laser triangulation method is widely used in online precision measurement owing to its advantages of being fast, accurate, and dynamic, and having large-scale measurement capability. To improve the accuracy of laser triangulation, the scan depth, inclination angle, rotation angle, and deflection angle are defined. Then, a spatial pose error model and an experimental model for laser measurement error are established. Next, error analysis experiments are conducted, and the influence of spatial pose parameters on the error is analyzed. Further, error proofreading experiments on the surface characteristics of the measured workpiece, including the material, surface roughness, and color, are completed, and their influences on the error are analyzed. Based on the experimental data, an error correction model based on support vector regression is established. Measurement strategies are formulated considering multi-factor constraints such as optical path interference, mechanical interference, scan depth of field, measurement angle, and measurement path. The tooth profile of a cycloid gear is taken as the measurement object, then the measurement path planning is performed, and the error correction model is used to correct the measured data. The accuracy of the results agrees well with the result of a fully automatic computer numerical control (CNC)-controlled P 65 precision measuring center.
Contact metalens for high-resolution optical microscope in semiconductor failure analysis
Authors: Uenoyama Soh , Takiguchi Yu , Takahashi Koji , Hirose Kazuyoshi , Terada Hirotoshi , Watanabe Akiyoshi
Published: October 2020

The continuous downscaling of electronic devices requires higher-resolution optical microscopic images for semiconductor failure analysis (FA). However, a part of the diffracted light from the measuring pattern in the silicon (Si) substrate cannot be collected due to the total internal reflection (TIR) at the interface between the Si substrate and air. We propose a metalens suitable for FA that improves resolution of optical microscopic images by collecting beyond the critical angle of TIR at the interface. For the proof of concept, we integrated the fabricated metalens into the optical setup of FA and acquired optical microscopic images of FA that clearly show improved resolution.
Teacher Candidates and the Open Classroom: Concerns for Professional Growth, Safety and Collaboration
Authors: Huck Adam
Published: October 2020

Environmental factors, personal experience, and social interactions influence the development of teacher candidates’ views of teachers’ roles in school and society (Rose, Monda-Amaya, & Preast, 2018). This is especially true when we consider the unique needs of each generation of teachers. Ecological systems theory and social cognitive theory frame this study as teacher candidates are the product of their personal experiences and social interactions within an education system that must respond to evolving societal needs. This paper presents a descriptive analysis of two sections of a literacy methods course through the study of reflection journals, survey data, and exit interviews. Themes and patterns were identified within teacher candidates’ responses (Glesne, 2011). Findings demonstrated that teacher candidates exhibited concerns and fears for not only their professional growth, but also the academic and emotional development of their students. The research occurred in the context of a Professional Development School (PDS) in an urban setting. The first section of the course identified the site’s open classroom layout as a physical safety concern due to the rising prevalence of school violence from internal and external sources. The second section identified support structures for teachers and students that demonstrated a concern for emotional safety. This study highlights the need to recognize teacher candidates’ unique generational experiences and their desires for safety and collaboration as part of their professional development as educators.
Burnout: Why Are Teacher Educators Reaching Their Limits?
Authors: Coyle Tiffany , Miller Erica V. , Rivera Cotto Christa
Published: October 2020

Burnout among our P-12 teachers has been well documented throughout the years. Yet, little research has been conducted into the burnout of higher education professionals in general. Lackritz (2004) found that emotional exhaustion is significantly and positively related to teaching load, grading, office hours, grant money, service time, and number of service activities. This research looks further into the variables that may impact burnout for higher education faculty, specifically in teacher education, seeking to answer the questions: Are teacher educators in NY experiencing stress/burnout? If so, what internal and/or external factors/conditions are contributing to their burnout? And are specific groups of teacher educators more at-risk for developing burnout more so than others. Survey results reveal that teacher educators have a very low to moderate chance of burnout, but experience many of the stressors that can lead to burnout. The findings build on and extend beyond Maslach, Schaufeli and Leiter’s (2001) framework which includes factors of workload, control, reward, community, fairness, and values.
Migration of Gastric Varix Coil After Balloon-Occluded Antegrade Transvenous Obliteration
Authors: Pusateri Antoinette J. , Makary Mina S. , Mumtaz Khalid
Published: October 2020

This is a case report of a man with alcoholic cirrhosis who underwent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and balloon-occluded antegrade transvenous obliteration for gastric fundal varices in 2017. After almost a year, we found extensive migration of the coil into the gastric fundus on upper endoscopy. Continued vigilant surveillance endoscopy may help detect this complication.
Cognitive function dynamics in comorbid patients after angioreconstructive interventions
Authors: Tanashyan M. M. , Antonova K. V. , Lagoda O. V. , Berdnikovitch E. S. , Medvedev R. B. , Titkova I. I. , Naminov A. V. , Annushkin A. V.
Published: October 2020

Angioreconstructive interventions are generally known to be of prophylactic value for cerebrovascular diseases (CVD). At the same time, their prognosis in comorbid patients, particularly in those with type 2 diabetes (T2D), have been insufficiently covered.

Objective: to study the impact of T2D on cognitive functions after carotid angioplasty with stenting (CAS)

Patients and methods. CAS was performed in 99 patients with chronic CVD. Group 1 consisted of 51 patients (median age, 64.5 years) without carbohydrate metabolism disorders. Group 2 included 48 patients (median age, 64 years) with T2D. Over time, all the patients underwent clinical, neurological, and neuropsychological examinations, general clinical and biochemical blood tests, duplex scanning of the brachiocephalic arteries, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. Blood flow in the middle cerebral artery was monitored to assess the embolic and hemodynamic situation during a CAS procedure.

Results and discussion. The baseline frequency of neurocognitive impairment was almost the same (75%) in both groups; however, the impairment was more obvious in patients with T2D. Re-examination in Group 1 patients immediately after intervention revealed slight positive cognitive changes, while the patients with T2D showed a decrease in the indicators of mental functions. The improved ability to abstract and increase the level of generalization of functions appeared in T2D patients only 2 months after intervention. Post-CAS MRI revealed ipsilateral acute ischemic foci (AIF) in the brain substance in 11 (22%) patients of Group 1 and in 24 (50%) with concomitant T2D. Comparison of neuroimaging data with cognitive function assessments for the entire group of the examinees established deterioration in the cognitive status in patients with new ischemic brain changes detected after intervention.

Conclusion. CVD concurrent with T2D usually contributes to deterioration in the cognitive status. Angioreconstructive interventions, in particular CAS, are frequently accompanied by the identification of AIF (including «silent» ones) that can cause a transient deterioration in cognitive functions. When planning angioreconstructive interventions in patients with T2D, the question arises of predicting such risks and possible neuroprotective methods.