bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Influence of Closed‐Cell Aluminum Foam on the Impact Performance of Concrete Pier after Equal Replacement with Stainless Steel Reinforcement
Authors: Zhou Xiwu , Zhang Honglong , Zhang Wenchao , Zhang Guoxue
Published: July 2020

In this study, the impact test of two groups of reinforced concrete piers protected by closed‐cell aluminum foam is carried out by using the ultrahigh drop hammer impact test system. The purpose of this study is to explore the impact resistance and protective performance of closed‐cell aluminum foam under the impact load on the concrete bridge pier after replacing the ordinary reinforcement with stainless steel reinforcement. The study results show that the impact force is related to the overall stiffness of the specimen, as well as to the failure mode. When the impact velocity is less than 1.42 m/s, the closed‐cell aluminum foam is in an elastic or yielding stage. The change rate of impact force (231 and 97.5, respectively), tip displacement (33.5 and 18, respectively), and ultrasonic damage rate of the concrete in the two groups of specimen is relatively small, while the change rate of the two groups of specimen remains approximately consistent. In addition, when the impact is greater than 1.42 m/s and the closed‐cell aluminum foam is in the densification stage, the change rate of the impact force (increase from 231 to 819 and from 97.5 to 984.5), the tip displacement (increase from 33.5 to 67 and from 18 to 62), and ultrasonic damage rate of concrete are larger, which results in an increase in the dynamic response of the structure.
Flexural Capacity and Behavior of RC Hollow Bridge Beams after a Time Service of 24 Years
Authors: Qu Guangzhen , Zhou Guangli , Lv Sizhong , Huang Pingming
Published: July 2020

The residual bearing capacity of existing bridges has been a controversial topic for engineers and technicians. In order to accurately evaluate the actual bearing capacity of a 24‐year‐old RC hollow beam bridge, its components with different thickness concrete leveling layer were removed and transported back to the laboratory. The representative static and dynamic responses of the two beams were monitored during the whole procedure. A quick assessment of loading capacity of bridge using crack height and a parameter correction method for the crack width prediction formula in the code were proposed. In addition, comparison of measured and current design codes GB 50010 and ACI 318 predicted behaviour of existing beams was also presented. The results showed that the bending process of the RC hollow beam went through the elastic phase to the elastic‐plastic phase and to the final failure. The actual flexural capacity of two beams was 10% larger than the calculated values. The natural vibration frequencies of the beam changed slightly before plastic stage, but the modal amplitude increased with the increase of degree of damage, once the beam entered plastic stage. The predicted deflections according to GB50010 were consistent with the experimental values at about 200 kN; for the code ACI, as the loading force increased, the difference between the two gradually decreased.
Medial and Lateral Meniscus Posterior Root Tears with an Intact Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Okazaki Yuki , Furumatsu Takayuki , Kodama Yuya , Matsumoto Yoshinori , Takahashi Motoki , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: July 2020

Background. Medial meniscus (MM) posterior root tear (PRT) is often caused by meniscal degeneration, whereas lateral meniscus (LM) PRT is mainly caused by trauma, especially trauma associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Although there are a few reports on PRTs of both menisci with an ACL injury, to our knowledge, there is no report on those with an intact ACL. Thus, the purpose of this study was to describe a rare case of both meniscal PRTs with an intact ACL. Case Presentation. A 67-year-old woman complained of right knee pain during weeding in a deep knee flexion position. At presentation, three days after the injury, physical examination revealed signs of meniscal injury without ACL rupture. Magnetic resonance imaging showed PRTs of both menisci and damaged cartilage, especially on the medial femoral condyle and lateral tibial plateau. MM was sutured using the FasT-Fix dependent modified Mason-Allen suture technique, and LM by a single simple stitch using the Knee Scorpion suture passer. Referring to previous cadaveric studies, transtibial pullout repair using a single tibial tunnel for MM fixation was performed. The stability of the repaired menisci was checked by probing during second-look arthroscopy at one year after the primary surgery, and no meniscal signs and symptoms were present at the last follow-up one year after the surgery. Conclusions. This rare case showed PRTs of both menisci with an intact ACL. We speculated that, in this case, both roots tore because of the degenerative menisci. A good clinical outcome was achieved after single-transtibial pullout repair. This technique may be an effective surgical approach for PRTs of both menisci.
Targeted Metabolomics for Plasma Amino Acids and Carnitines in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome Using HPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Gong Li-li , Yang Song , Zhang Wen , Han Fei-fei , Xuan Ling-ling , Lv Ya-li , Liu He , Liu Li-hong
Published: July 2020

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a health disorder characterized by metabolic abnormalities that predict an increased risk to develop cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes. Biomarkers can provide an insight into the novel mechanism for MetS and can be potentially used for personalized response to therapies. We exploited a targeted HPLC-MS/MS method to characterize plasma amino acids and carnitine metabolic profile in MetS patients. A training set (40 cases and 40 controls) and validation set (80 MetS patients and 80 healthy controls) were carried out to find the metabolic profiles. We discovered two carnitine metabolites including hydroxydecanoyl carnitine and methylglutarylcarnitine. Our results indicated that the decreased level of hydroxydecanoyl carnitine and methylglutarylcarnitine may be associated with the risk of MetS. These biomarkers may improve the risk prediction and provide a novel tool for monitoring of the progression of disease and response to treatment in MetS patients.
Support Vector Machine-Based Classification of Malicious Users in Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Khan Muhammad Sajjad , Khan Liaqat , Gul Noor , Amir Muhammad , Kim Junsu , Kim Su Min
Published: July 2020

Cognitive radio is an intelligent radio network that has advancement over traditional radio. The difference between the traditional radio and the cognitive radio is that all the unused frequency spectrum can be utilized to the best of available resources in the cognitive radio unlike the traditional radio. The core technology of cognitive radio is spectrum sensing, in which secondary users (SUs) opportunistically access the spectrum while avoiding interference to primary user (PU) channels. Various aspects of the spectrum sensing have been studied from the perspective of cognitive radio. Cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) technique provides a promising performance, compared with individual sensing techniques. However, the existence of malicious users (MUs) highly degrades the performance of cognitive radio network (CRN) by sending falsified results to a fusion center (FC). In this paper, we propose a machine learning algorithm based on support vector machine (SVM) to classify legitimate SUs and MUs in the CRN. The proposed SVM-based algorithm is used for both classification and regression. It clearly classifies legitimate SUs and MUs by drawing a hyperplane on the base of maximal margin. After successful classification, the sensing results from the legitimate SUs are combined at the FC by utilizing Dempster-Shafer (DS) evidence theory. The effectiveness of the proposed SVM-based classification algorithm is demonstrated through simulations, compared with existing schemes.
Physical Modelling of Roll and Pitch Motions of Travelling or Stationary Ship in Large‐Scale Landslide‐Generated Waves
Authors: Yuan Pei-yin , Wang Ping-yi , Zhao Yu
Published: July 2020

Large‐scale landslides often occur in river‐type reservoirs, and landslide‐generated waves affect navigation channels and the navigation of ships. Thus, such waves cause widespread regional disasters. This study establishes a mechanical model of landslide‐generated waves via field investigations and data collection, reveals the mechanism and process of landslide‐generated waves, and investigates the propagation characteristics of landslide‐generated waves along a sloping wave. The feasibility of the model is verified via (i) regularity analysis, (ii) comparative analysis of the effect of landslide‐generated waves of mountain river channel reservoirs on the movement characteristics of navigation vessels and stationary vessels, (iii) deviation from the equilibrium position, and (iv) an in‐depth study of the influence of large‐scale landslide‐generated waves on ships in different navigation positions in a river channel. Countermeasures are proposed for a sailing ship to tackle a sudden landslide‐generated wave; these measures can provide a theoretical basis for ships to sail safely through large‐scale landslide‐generated waves.
Density Peaks Clustering by Zero-Pointed Samples of Regional Group Borders
Authors: Ding Lin , Xu Weihong , Chen Yuantao
Published: July 2020

Density peaks clustering algorithm (DPC) has attracted the attention of many scholars because of its multiple advantages, including efficiently determining cluster centers, a lower number of parameters, no iterations, and no border noise. However, DPC does not provide a reliable and specific selection method of threshold (cutoff distance) and an automatic selection strategy of cluster centers. In this paper, we propose density peaks clustering by zero-pointed samples (DPC-ZPSs) of regional group borders. DPC-ZPS finds the subclusters and the cluster borders by zero-pointed samples (ZPSs). And then, subclusters are merged into individuals by comparing the density of edge samples. By iteration of the merger, the suitable dc and cluster centers are ensured. Finally, we compared state-of-the-art methods with our proposal in public datasets. Experiments show that our algorithm automatically determines cutoff distance and centers accurately.
Optimal Pricing Decision of Fashion Apparel considering Experiential Service and Design Enhancement
Authors: Xu Qi , Zhou Lili , Chen Qi
Published: July 2020

Fashionable clothing is susceptible to seasonality, fashion popularity, and other factors. The decline in the fashion level for fashion apparel will cause its market value to continuously decrease, reducing market demand and creating a backlog of apparel inventory. Under such a circumstance, the apparel retailer chooses to maintain the fashion of the goods by providing experiential services or enhancing product design capabilities. This paper focuses on the discussions on the issue of whether experience service and design efforts are complements or substitutes. The major objective is to simultaneously determine the experience service investment and the optimal selling price to maximize the total profit. First, a Cobb–Douglas utility function is used to derive a demand function that depends on the price and fashion level. Four kinds of inventory models are further established to obtain optimal pricing and inventory ordering strategies. Second, an algorithm is presented to search for the optimal solutions of the proposed model. Finally, a numerical example is provided to perform a sensitivity analysis of the key parameters and to discuss specific managerial insights. The numerical examples show that both the experiential services and the enhanced fashion design can effectively reduce the apparel company’s inventory and increase profits. When the two strategies are combined, they will produce complementary or substitution effects, which depend on the deterioration rate of the fashion level of the apparel. If the deterioration rate is less than a critical value, the interaction of experiential services and design investment has a complementarity effect.
Safety Standard for Special Class Damslopes Based on Reliability Analysis
Authors: Huang Lingzhi , Si Zheng , Du Xiaoqi , Wen Lifeng , Li Bin
Published: July 2020

The risk of slope failure is determined by the degree of damage caused by the slope slide. For the special‐high slope of some high‐risk water conservancy and hydropower projects, the standard should be appropriately raised. Thus, the safety standard for these slopes is explored on the basis of reliability analysis. The slopes with high risk of failure are divided into special class I and special class II slopes depending on the risk levels and acceptable risk standards. The concept of reliability theory‐based relative ratio of the safety margin is utilized to establish the relationship between annual failure probability and safety factor, thereby obtaining the reasonable safety factors for different slopes. Results show that the values of safety factors for special class I and special class II are 1.40 and 1.35, respectively. These results can provide a reference for exploring the safety standards of dams with a height of more than 200 m.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Celiac Plexus Interventions
Authors: Moutinho-Ribeiro Pedro , Costa-Moreira Pedro , Caldeira Ana , Leite Sílvia , Marques Susana , Moreira Teresa , Nunes Nuno , Bispo Miguel
Published: July 2020

Abdominal pain related to pancreatic disease is often extremely disabling. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided celiac plexus block (CPB) is used to control pain associated with chronic pancreatitis. EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis (CPN) is typically used to reduce pain associated with pancreatic cancer and can be considered early at the time of diagnosis of inoperable disease. EUS-guided celiac plexus interventions have been shown to be significantly effective in pancreatic pain relief, which is achieved in approximately 70–80% of patients with pancreatic cancer and in 50–60% of those with chronic pancreatitis. Serious complications from CPB and CPN are rare. Most frequent adverse events are diarrhoea, orthostatic hypotension, and a transient increase in abdominal pain. In this article, the Portuguese Group for Ultrasound in Gastroenterology (GRUPUGE) presents an updated perspective of the potential role of EUS-guided celiac plexus interventions, addressing the selection criteria and technical issues of different techniques and analysing recent data on their safety and efficacy.
Ernährung bei entzündlichen Darmerkrankungen
Authors: Schreiner Philipp , Martinho-Grueber Maude , Studerus Diana , Vavricka Stephan R. , Tilg Herbert , Biedermann Luc ,   für das Swiss IBDnet, eine offizielle Arbeitsgruppe der Schweiz. Gesellschaft f. Gastroenterologie
Published: July 2020

Hintergrund: Die Übernahme einer westlichen Lebensweise, insbesondere der damit verbundenen ernährungsbezogenen Veränderungen, gilt als einer der wichtigsten Faktoren, der zur steigenden Inzidenz entzündlicher Darmerkrankungen (IBD, inflammatory bowel disease), hauptsächlich Morbus Crohn und Colitis ulcerosa, beiträgt. Zusammenfassung: Die Ernährung stellt für Patienten mit IBD ein zentrales und intuitiv relevantes Thema dar. Auch wenn eine beträchtliche Zahl von Patienten geneigt ist, Ernährungsempfehlungen verschiedenster Anbieter, u.a. aus der Laienpresse, zu befolgen, lassen sich solche Anregungen nur selten durch wissenschaftliche Evidenzdaten untermauern. Dies kann dazu führen, dass Ärzte über verschiedene Aspekte der Ernährung unzureichend informiert sind, was wiederum eine fachgerechte Beratung ihrer Patienten mit IBD von vorne herein ausschließt. Zudem sind Patienten mit IBD gefährdet, Eisen-, Vitamin-B12-, und Folsäuremangel sowie einen Mangel an verschiedenen Mikronährstoffen zu entwickeln, der bei Patienten mit aktiver Erkrankung und solchen, die eine strikte Diät befolgen, besonders stark ausgeprägt sein kann. Ziel der vorliegenden Übersichtsarbeit ist es, die neuesten Daten aus klinischen und epidemiologischen Studien zur Untersuchung der Ernährungsweise und ihrer Auswirkungen auf den Krankheitsverlauf zusammenzufassen und die wichtigsten Nährstoffdefizite bei Patienten mit IBD zu umreißen. Wichtigste Aussagen: Eine westliche Ernährungsweise mit einem unausgewogenen Verhältnis zwischen den mehrfach ungesättigten Fettsäuren (PUFAs, polyunsaturated fatty acids) Omega-6 (n-6) und Omega-3 (n-3) zugunsten von n-6-PUFAs kann das Risiko für IBD erhöhen, während eine Ernährungsweise, die reich an Obst und Gemüse ist, das Risiko für IBD verringern kann. Es gibt eine Vielzahl von Ansätzen mit dem Ziel, den Krankheitsverlauf bei IBD durch Ernährungsmaßnahmen zu beeinflussen. Behandlungsstrategien zur Einleitung oder Aufrechterhaltung einer Remission entzündlicher Darmerkrankungen durch eine veränderte Ernährung stecken jedoch noch in den Kinderschuhen, und weitere Anstrengungen in der Ernährungsforschung sind erforderlich, bevor wir solche in der täglichen Praxis anwenden können. Patienten mit IBD, selbst solche in Remission, sind regelmäßig auf Mangelernährung zu untersuchen.
Introdução à robótica educacional com Arduíno – hands on! iniciante
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Oliveira Marcelo Eduardo de , Zuccherelli Matheus Fernando Lima ,   Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Libera Giovanni Polette Dalla ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Oliveira Renata Lima Zuccherelli de ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Tech Adriano Rogério Bruno ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos
Published: July 2020

O Arduino é uma plataforma eletrônica open source, que tem como objetivo integrar hardware e software de maneira fácil, permitindo que pessoas com pouco conhecimento na área possam desenvolver suas habilidades e aprendizado de maneira mais simples, aprendendo a eletrônica básica e programação. Este trabalho tem como objetivo apoiar alunos e iniciantes em programação e eletrônica básica, os quais contarão com quinze atividades básicas disponibilizadas utilizando o Arduino, além da montagem de todo o circuito em desenvolvimento. Parafraseando uma Grande Mente, quando queremos ensinar, devemos colocar-nos no lugar daquele que irá receber o ensinamento, ou seja, devemos ser diretos e objetivos como a natureza, pois ela é transparente e absoluta, e encerra, em si, o TODO
Resource Utilization in the First 2 Years Following Operative Correction for Tetralogy of Fallot: Study Using Data From the Optum's De‐Identified Clinformatics Data Mart Insurance Claims Database
Authors: O'Byrne Michael L. , DeCost Grace , Katcoff Hannah , Savla Jill J. , Chang Joyce , Goldmuntz Elizabeth , Groeneveld Peter W. , Rossano Joseph W. , Faerber Jennifer A. , Mercer‐Rosa Laura
Published: July 2020

Background

Despite excellent operative survival, correction of tetralogy of Fallot frequently is accompanied by residual lesions that may affect health beyond the incident hospitalization. Measuring resource utilization, specifically cost and length of stay, provides an integrated measure of morbidity not appreciable in traditional outcomes.

Methods and Results

We conducted a retrospective cohort study, using de‐identified commercial insurance claims data, of 269 children who underwent operative correction of tetralogy of Fallot from January 2004 to September 2015 with ≥2 years of continuous follow‐up (1) to describe resource utilization for the incident hospitalization and subsequent 2 years, (2) to determine whether prolonged length of stay (>7 days) in the incident hospitalization was associated with increased subsequent resource utilization, and (3) to explore whether there was regional variation in resource utilization with both direct comparisons and multivariable models adjusting for known covariates. Subjects with prolonged incident hospitalization length of stay demonstrated greater resource utilization (total cost as well as counts of outpatient visits, hospitalizations, and catheterizations) after hospital discharge (
P
<0.0001 for each), though the number of subsequent operative and transcatheter interventions were not significantly different. Regional differences were observed in the cost of incident hospitalization as well as subsequent hospitalizations, outpatient visits, and the costs associated with each.

Conclusions

This study is the first to report short‐ and medium‐term resource utilization following tetralogy of Fallot operative correction. It also demonstrates that prolonged length of stay in the initial hospitalization is associated with increased subsequent resource utilization. This should motivate research to determine whether these differences are because of modifiable factors.
Soil abiotic factors associated with Meloidogyne spp. and Pratylenchus spp. populations in sugarcane
Authors: Noronha Marissônia de A. , Fernandes Marcelo F. , Muniz Maria de Fatima S. , Pedrosa Elvira Maria R. , Assunção Mayara C. , Calheiros Leila C. da S.
Published: July 2020

Meloidogyne spp. and Pratylenchus spp. are the most damaging plant-parasitic nematodes to sugarcane and the knowledge of soil characteristics that influence the occurrence of these pathogens can be useful in their management. With the objective to investigate the relationships between soil variables and populations of Meloidogyne spp. and Pratylenchus spp. in sugarcane fields, root-zone soil and root samples were collected from 20 farms located in 16 municipalities in Alagoas state, Brazil. The multivariate regression tree technique was used to model the population density’s response variables for Meloidogyne spp. and Pratylenchus spp. in the root-zone soil and the roots according to sugarcane cultivars, soil organic matter, and soil chemical and physical variables. The results showed the existence of associations between soil factors, sugarcane cultivars and populations of nematodes. Root samples from soils with K > 37.79 mmolc dm−3, Al < 5.93 mmolc dm−3 and sugarcane ‘RB92579’, ‘SP753046’, ‘SP813250’ and ‘SP921631’ showed the lowest Pratylenchus spp. population densities. However, the lowest densities in the root-zone were found in soils with sum of bases > 1.91 mmolc dm−3, Ca:Mg ratio < 1:2 and soil organic matter < 10.7 g dm−3. The lowest population densities of Meloidogyne spp. in roots were associated with sugarcane ‘RB92579’, ‘RB93509’, ‘RB98710’, ‘SP791011’ and ‘SP921631’ and soil aggregate mean diam. > 0.48 mm, while root-zone densities were minimum in soils with P > 28.59 mg dm−3. This information should support further studies to investigate the effect of each variable on populations of Pratylenchus and Meloidogyne.
Spatial and spatiotemporal analysis of Meloidogyne hapla and Pratylenchus penetrans populations in commercial potato fields in New York, USA
Authors: Gorny Adrienne M. , Hay Frank S. , Esker Paul , Pethybridge Sarah J.
Published: July 2020

Meloidogyne hapla and Pratylenchus penetrans are important plant-parasitic nematodes affecting potato in New York and the Northeastern United States, yet little is known of their spatial patterns and spatiotemporal dynamics. Spatial patterns of M. hapla and Pratylenchus spp. were quantified using semivariogram analysis and Spatial Analysis by Distance IndicEs (SADIE). Nematode populations were assessed within each of three commercial potato fields in 2016 and 2017, with fields sampled on two occasions in-season. Semivariogram analysis and ordinary kriging indicated initial population densities to be spatially dependent over an average range of 110 m for M. hapla and 147 m for Pratylenchus spp. SADIE indicated Pratylenchus spp. to be significantly aggregated in nearly all fields (10 of 12 samplings, to 2.113). Meloidogyne hapla populations were aggregated in only three of 12 samplings ( to 1.738). Spatiotemporal analysis using the association function of SADIE indicated a strong and significant association between initial and final population densities of M. hapla and Pratylenchus spp. within fields. This information is fundamental for the development of enhanced sampling protocols for estimation of plant-parasitic nematodes and evaluating the feasibility of site-specific nematicide application in New York potato fields.
Bursaphelenchus juglandis n. sp. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae), an associate of walnut twig beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis, the vector of thousand cankers disease
Authors: Ryss Alexander Y. , Parker Corwin , Álvarez-Ortega Sergio , Nadler Steven A. , Subbotin Sergei A.
Published: July 2020

Bursaphelenchus juglandis n. sp. was isolated from the walnut twig beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis, and walnut trees, Juglans spp. with symptoms of thousand cankers disease, in California, USA. Based on analysis of three rRNA genes and morphological features (three lines in lateral field, small arched vulval flap in female, broad spicule with two lines along blade and small cucullus, digitate dorsally bent condylus, male tail pattern of five papilliform papillae and one pair of glandpapillae (P5), and curved conical female tail), the new species belongs to the Abietinus group within Bursaphelenchus. It differs from similar species of this group by the presence of a cephalic disc with lateral labial sensilla at the disc border, and in having thick spicules with the capitulum surface almost parallel to a virtual direct line extending from the spicule end. An emended diagnosis, tabular polytomous identification key and compendium of species with the lists of their vectors, plant hosts, and distribution are provided for the Abietinus group. The diagnostics of the propagative developmental stages is given, including sex differences; the transmission dauer stage was identified as the third stage and its description given with sexual differences. A molecular phylogeny of Bursaphelenchus is provided based on partial 18S rRNA, ITS rRNA and the D2-D3 expansion fragments of 28S rRNA gene sequences. A PCR with a species-specific primer was developed for detection of B. juglandis n. sp.
Description of Aphelenchoides hamospiculatus n. sp. (Aphelenchoidea: Aphelenchoididae) from Golestan province, north Iran
Authors: Mortazavi Parnaz , Pedram Majid
Published: July 2020

Two populations of Aphelenchoides hamospiculatus n. sp. were recovered from natural forests in eastern regions of Golestan province, north Iran. Both populations were morphologically similar. The new species is described and illustrated herein. The females of the type population, recovered from soil, measured 467-550 μm long, and females of the second population, from bark, measured 545-666 μm long. It is mainly characterised by having five lines in the lateral fields, a subcylindrical tail and a single centrally located mucron at the female tail tip with fine nodules, giving it a warty appearance. It is further characterised by having a cephalic region separated from the rest of the body by a shallow constriction, stylet with small swellings at base, large median bulb with slightly post-centrally located, well sclerotised valvular plates and post-vulval uterine sac 56-63 μm long in the type population. The males have spicules with a remarkable narrowing at the distal two-thirds, well-developed condylus with rounded end, small rostrum slightly bent inwards and a hook-like tip of the dorsal limb; and three pairs of cloacal + caudal papillae (the single precloacal papilla, P1, is lacking). The new species was morphologically compared with three species of the genus having five lines in the lateral fields, similar species with no data on their lateral lines, and those with similar spicules and a female tail end bearing a warty mucron. The molecular phylogenetic relationships of the new species using partial small and large subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU and LSU rDNA) sequences are discussed.
Advertisement calls of Fejervarya multistriata (Anura: Dicroglossidae), with a review of anurans in China
Authors: Lin You-Fu , Chen Zhi-Qiang , Tang Yun , Chen Jing-Yi , Ding Guo-Hua , Lin Zhi-Hua , Ji Xiang
Published: July 2020

Vocalization plays an important role in the communication of anurans. In this study, the advertisement calls of male Fejervarya multistriata obtained in Lishui, Zhejiang, China during the breeding season were recorded. Their note number (NN), note duration (ND), note interval (NI), call duration (CD), pitch (PIT), call intensity (CIT) and dominant frequency (DF) were analyzed. The calls of F. multistriata are composed of one to 38 notes, and calls composed of fewer than ten notes have the highest frequency. Male frogs produced calls ranging from 1201 Hz to 3357 Hz with two DFs (1412.49 Hz and 2953.89 Hz). By comparing the differences among individual calls, it was found that the within-individual coefficients of variation (CVW) and among-individual coefficients of variation (CVA) for NN, NI, CD, PIT and DF were more than 10%, whereas that of CIT was less than 5%. The CVA/CVW ratios indicate that ND is important for sexual selection, whereas NN, NI CD, PIT, CIT, and DF are important for individual recognition. Phylogenetic generalized least squares analysis showed that phylogenetic signals affect DF vs. snout-vent length (SVL) and CD of anurans in China, and accounting for phylogenetic signals, DF was negatively correlated with SVL. DF was found to be higher in anurans that breed in flowing water than in those that breed in stagnant water, after eliminating the effects of phylogeny and SVL. Therefore, we conclude that phylogenetic effects, SVL, and the water type of breeding habitats have a combined impact on the advertisement calls in anurans.
Exploring the Explicit Teaching Strategies in STEAM Program of Climate Change
Authors: Park Young Shin , Park Jo Hoon
Published: July 2020

The study introduces exemplary explicit teaching strategies as enacted by a middle school STEAM teacher. Through a 10-lesson climate change STEAM program, data were collected to explore explicit teaching strategies using O-TOP (Oregon Collaborative for Excellence in the Preparation [OCEPT] Teaching Observation Protocol) and NGSS 8 Practices (Next Generation Science Standards). Data from teacher interviews and class observations were also used to identify and describe how this STEAM teacher offered students opportunities to solve real problems in their community. Examples demonstrating three stages of STEAM education: understanding context presentation, performing creative design, and experiencing emotional touch are provided. We argue STEAM programs should be presented with more realistic issues arising from the community students belong to and that explicit teaching strategies should give students the opportunity to achieve core competencies and scientific literacy. Our study offers implications about the need for systemic teacher training and professional development for STEAM education.
Working Experience of an Animal Welfare Body at an Italian Veterinary Public Health Institution
Authors: Mutinelli Franco , Boldrin Massimo
Published: July 2020

According to Directive 2010/63/EU, project proposals involving experiments on animals must be favourably evaluated by the local Animal Welfare Body (AWB) before submission for approval to the central competent authority, i.e., the Ministry of Health in the case of Italy. Here the working experience of the AWB established in one Italian veterinary public health institution is considered and discussed to identify limits, difficulties, and provide suggestions for improvement based on practical cases. Given its pivotal role, the AWB should be strengthened to guarantee the safety and welfare of animals used for scientific purposes, and to further the awareness of researchers about animal welfare and ethics.
Impacts of Oceanic and Atmospheric Heat Transports on Sea Ice Extent
Authors: Aylmer Jake , Ferreira David , Feltham Daniel
Published: July 2020

Climate-model biases in ocean heat transport (OHT) have been proposed as a major contributor to uncertainties in projections of sea ice extent. To better understand the impact of OHT on sea ice extent and compare it to that of atmospheric heat transport (AHT), an idealized, zonally averaged energy balance model (EBM) is developed. This is distinguished from previous EBM work by coupling a diffusive mixed layer OHT and a prescribed OHT contribution, with an atmospheric EBM and a reduced-complexity sea ice model. The ice-edge latitude is roughly linearly related to the convergence of each heat transport component, with different sensitivities depending on whether the ice cover is perennial or seasonal. In both regimes, Bjerknes compensation (BC) occurs such that the response of AHT partially offsets the impact of changing OHT. As a result, the effective sensitivity of ice-edge retreat to increasing OHT is only ~2/3 of the actual sensitivity (i.e., eliminating the BC effect). In the perennial regime, the sensitivity of the ice edge to OHT is about twice that to AHT, while in the seasonal regime they are similar. The ratio of sensitivities is, to leading order, determined by atmospheric longwave feedback parameters in the perennial regime. Here, there is no parameter range in which the ice edge is more sensitive to AHT than OHT.
Multidisciplinary Tracheostomy Quality Improvement in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Building a Global Learning Community
Authors: Swords Chloe , Bergman Lina , Wilson-Jeffers Rachel , Randall Diane , Morris Linda L. , Brenner Michael J. , Arora Asit
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

To report experience with a global multidisciplinary tracheostomy e-learning initiative.

Methods:

An international multidisciplinary panel of experts convened to build a virtual learning community for tracheostomy care, comprising a web-based platform, five distance learning (interactive webinar) sessions, and professional discourse over 12 months. Structured pre- and post-webinar surveys were disseminated to global participants including otolaryngologists, intensivists, nurses, allied health professionals, and patients/caregivers. Data were collected on audio-visual fidelity, demographics, and pre- and post-tutorial assessments regarding experience and skill acquisition. Participants reported confidence levels for NICU, pediatric, adult, and family care, as well as technical skills, communication, learning, assessment, and subdomains.

Results:

Participants from 197 institutions in 22 countries engaged in the virtual education platform, including otolaryngologists, speech pathologists, respiratory therapists, specialist nurses, patients, and caregivers. Significant improvements were reported in communication ( P < .0001), clinical assessments ( P < .0001), and clinical governance ( P < .0001), with positive impact on pediatric decannulation ( P = .0008), adult decannulation ( P = .04), and quality improvement ( P < .0001). Respondents reported enhanced readiness to integrate knowledge into practice. Barriers included time zones, internet bandwidth, and perceived difficulty of direct clinical translation of highly technical skills. Participants rated the implementation highly in terms of length, ability for discussion, satisfaction, applicability to professional practice, and expertise of discussants (median scores: 4, 4, 4, 4 and 5 out of 5).

Conclusions:

Virtual learning has dominated the education landscape during COVID-19 pandemic, but few data are available on its effectiveness. This study demonstrated feasibility of virtual learning for disseminating best practices in tracheostomy, engaging a diverse, multidisciplinary audience. Learning of complex technical skills proved a hurdle, however, suggesting need for hands-on experience for technical mastery. While interactive videoconferencing via webinar affords an engaging and scalable strategy for sharing knowledge, further investigation is needed on clinical outcomes to define effective strategies for experiential online learning and virtual in-service simulations.
Danielson’s Framework for Teaching: Convergence and Divergence With Conceptions of Effectiveness in Special Education
Authors: Morris-Mathews Hannah , Stark Kristabel R. , Jones Nathan D. , Brownell Mary T. , Bell Courtney A.
Published: July 2020

Danielson’s Framework for Teaching (FFT) is currently used in more than 20 states to inform teacher evaluation and professional learning. To investigate whether FFT promotes instruction that appropriately responds to the needs of students with learning disabilities, we conduct a systematic content analysis of the instructional approach emphasized in the FFT’s Instructional Domain (Domain 3) of Danielson’s FFT. We frame our study using cognitive load theory and research regarding effective instruction for students with disabilities. We end by discussing implications regarding the evaluation and development of effective teaching for students with learning disabilities.
Analysis of 16 phthalate esters in wastewater from textile plants using headspace solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection
Authors: Li Ying , Ye XiWen , Niu ZengYuan , He Jing , Luo Xin , Ma Qiang
Published: July 2020

Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) with a 100-µm polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) fiber coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to determine 16 phthalate esters (PAEs) in wastewater from textile processing plants. Some of the 16 PAEs that exist as mixtures of isomers were identified and quantified. We investigated the matrix effect and evaluated a qualification and quantitation method for determining trace amounts of PAEs in wastewater from textile processing plants. The major advantages of this approach are the reduced matrix effects from the textile wastewater and the compatibility with the standard addition method (SAM) for PAE quantitation. Moreover, the developed method has low reagent and solvent consumption, does not require clean-up or evaporation steps and involves minimal sample manipulation. Two fiber coatings, 85-µm polyacrylate and 100-µm PDMS, were tested. The variables affecting SPME absorption, such as the sample temperature, extraction time and salt concentration, were studied. The final conditions were an extraction temperature of 95℃, an extraction time of 30 min and a salt concentration of 0.3 g/mL. The SAM was used to analyze and quantify samples. The linear range was between 5 and 20 µg/L, and the limits of detection of the method were between 0.5 and 5 µg/L. Finally, the precision of the phthalate quantitation was also evaluated.
Non-sexist Language Policy and the Rise (and Fall?) of Combined Pronouns in British and American Written English
Authors: Paterson Laura L.
Published: July 2020

This paper focuses on the use of combined pronouns ( s/he, his or her, him/her, etc.) as an example of late twentieth-century non-sexist language reform which had an overt democratizing aim. Within the scope of second-wave feminism, the use of combined pronouns increased the visibility of women in discourse by encouraging the use of feminine pronouns ( she, her, hers) alongside masculine pronouns ( he, him, his). Despite their promotion, however, the use of combined pronouns is relatively rare. This paper uses the LOB and Brown families of corpora to diachronically and synchronically study patterns in the use of combined pronouns in written American (AmE) and British English (BrE) from the 1930s to the early 2000s. The analysis not only determines what forms these patterns take, but questions whether combined pronouns are influenced by (a combination of) syntax and/or semantics, and questions whether combined pronouns are really democratic at all.
Refinement and Psychometric Properties of the Self-Efficacy for Sleep Hygiene Inventory
Authors: Gipson Christine S. , Chilton Jenifer M. , Stocks Eric
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine key concepts of self-efficacy for sleep hygiene among young adults/college students and sleep experts, and to refine the Self-Efficacy for Sleep Hygiene Inventory. The Self-Efficacy for Sleep Hygiene Inventory was revised using input from young adult focus groups and experts. Information from focus groups informed instrument revision. The revised instrument was distributed using an electronic survey to young adults age 18–26 years for a total sample of 296. A principal component analysis with Varimax Orthogonal Rotation was conducted resulting in a three-factor solution. Cronbach’s alphas were: .85 for Behaviors to Adopt (nine items), .79 for Manage Mindset and Environment (eight items), .70 for Behaviors to Avoid (eight items), and .88 for the inventory (twenty-five items). Initial psychometric testing of the Self-Efficacy for Sleep Hygiene Inventory-Revised indicates that it is a reliable measure of self-efficacy for sleep hygiene in young adults age 18–26 years.
Development and Testing of the Dysmenorrhea Symptom Interference (DSI) Scale
Authors: Chen Chen X. , Murphy Tabitha , Ofner Susan , Yahng Lilian , Krombach Peter , LaPradd Michelle , Bakoyannis Giorgos , Carpenter Janet S.
Published: July 2020

Dysmenorrhea affects most reproductive-age women and increases the risk of future pain. To evaluate dysmenorrhea interventions, validated outcome measures are needed. In this two-phase study, we developed and tested the dysmenorrhea symptom interference scale. During the scale-development phase ( n = 30), we created a nine-item scale based on qualitative data from cognitive interviews. During the scale-testing phase ( n = 686), we evaluated reliability, validity, and responsiveness to change. The scale measures how dysmenorrhea symptoms interfere with physical, mental, and social activities. Internal consistency was strong with Cronbach’s α > 0.9. Test–retest reliability was acceptable ( r = 0.8). The scale showed satisfactory content validity, construct validity (supported by confirmatory factor analysis), concurrent validity, and responsiveness to change. The minimally important difference was 0.3 points on a scale with a possible total score ranging from 1 to 5. This new psychometrically sound scale can be used in research and clinical practice to facilitate the measurement and management of dysmenorrhea.
Mealtime Caregiving Engagement for Residents with Advanced Dementia: Item Response Theory Analysis
Authors: Liu Wen , Batchelor Melissa
Published: July 2020

The 18-item Mealtime Engagement Scale was developed to measure mealtime caregiving engagement with preliminary reliability and validity. Item Response Theory models (i.e., Rasch model and Rating Response Model) may provide insight into item functioning. This was a secondary analysis of 87 videotaped mealtime observations involving 18 nursing home staff providing care to residents with advanced dementia.

In both models, item difficulties were distributed considerably along the latent trait and highly correlated. Two thirds of the 18 items were located at the moderate level of mealtime engagement. “Providing one-on-one assistance” was most frequently observed, and “re-approaching individual to continue meal” was least frequently observed. All items showed desirable fit to the models. The Rasch model had a significantly smaller deviance than the Rating Response Model, indicating an overall better fit. Findings provided preliminary support for item functioning and pointed out directions for item revisions. Future testing in larger diverse samples is needed.
Disease‐Specific Quality of Life in Vestibular Schwannoma: A National Cross‐sectional Study Comparing Microsurgery, Radiosurgery, and Observation
Authors: Chweya Cynthia M. , Tombers Nicole M. , Lohse Christine M. , Link Michael J. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: July 2020

Objective

To examine the impact of treatment on disease‐specific health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) among patients with sporadic vestibular schwannoma (VS).

Study Design

National cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center and the Acoustic Neuroma Association.

Subjects and Methods

Adult patients with VS who completed the Penn Acoustic Neuroma Quality of Life (PANQOL) survey. Patients were classified by treatment at the most recent survey as microsurgery, radiosurgery, observation, or recently diagnosed (RD). PANQOL scores were compared among VS treatment groups and with nontumor controls using analysis of covariance.

Results

A total of 1362 respondents with VS were analyzed. Total PANQOL scores differed significantly by treatment (P =. 024) with adjusted means of 60, 63, 65, and 62 for the microsurgery, radiosurgery, observation, and RD groups, respectively. Subdomain scores for facial function, balance, hearing loss, and pain differed significantly (P <. 05) by treatment. Comparisons that surpassed thresholds for clinical significance included microsurgery compared to radiosurgery and observation for facial function, microsurgery compared to observation and RD for hearing loss, and microsurgery compared to radiosurgery and observation for pain. Subdomain scores for anxiety, facial function, balance, hearing loss, energy, and pain and total PANQOL scores for nontumor controls were significantly higher (ie, more favorable) compared to the VS groups (P <. 05). General health scores did not differ significantly between the nontumor controls and the VS groups (P =. 19).

Conclusion

Differences in HRQOL among treatment modalities are small and variably exceed the minimal clinically important difference. The impact of a VS diagnosis on HRQOL supersedes that of the treatment type.
Pediatric Septal Perforation Repair With the Endoscopic Anterior Ethmoid Artery Flap
Authors: Nassif Samih J. , Scott Andrew R.
Published: July 2020

Pediatric nasal septal perforations can lead to crusting, obstruction, whistling, and recurrent epistaxis. Current approaches for pediatric nasal septal repair center on combination endonasal and external approaches. Herein we describe the successful utilization of a purely endoscopic anterior ethmoid artery flap, an established technique in adults, for nasal septal perforation repair in 3 children aged 12 to 13 years who presented with septal perforations ranging in size from 6 to 12 mm. Successful closure was achieved with an endoscopic anterior ethmoid artery flap, with all patients achieving complete closure and symptom resolution. Children with nasal septal defects are typically treated with temporizing measures until early adulthood, when definitive open repair may be performed. Our initial experience with the anterior ethmoid artery flap technique suggests that this surgery may be easily performed in children as young as 12 years, without the use of previously described adjunctive procedures such as turbinate translocation.