bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Un enfoque basado en juegos educativos para aprender geometría en educación primaria: Estudio preliminar
Authors: Franco-Mariscal Antonio-Joaquín , Sánchez Paola Simeoli
Published: February 2019

Resumen El aprendizaje de la geometría es primordial en matemáticas para identificar las figuras geométricas y aprender sus propiedades. El empleo de juegos educativos en el aula, ofrece nuevas oportunidades para motivar a los estudiantes y aprender matemáticas en la vida diaria desde una perspectiva socio-constructivista dentro de las posturas falibilistas y cuasi-empiristas. El objetivo de este trabajo es diseñar y evaluar una secuencia didáctica sobre geometría para primaria, donde la base del aprendizaje se articule a través de diferentes juegos educativos integrados de manera conjunta en la secuencia, permitiendo comparar el aprendizaje adquirido con los resultados de tareas más tradicionales. El estudio preliminar se desarrolló con 13 estudiantes de 7 años de un colegio de Málaga (España). Para cada contenido, se incluyeron en la secuencia tareas tradicionales (con fichas de trabajo con escasas oportunidades en el contexto social) y juegos (games y task involving play – TIP o tareas que promueven escenarios entre play y game–). El análisis cualitativo y cuantitativo de cada tarea mediante categorías y el test de Wilcoxon mostraron que los juegos educativos resultan más favorables para el aprendizaje de la geometría que los contenidos planteados con una tarea tradicional, en particular, aquellas relacionadas con la identificación de polígonos. Los resultados apuntan a que el tipo de juego educativo que resulta más efectivo en el aprendizaje de la geometría son los TIPs, ya que sólo en éstos se obtuvieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas al compararlos con tareas tradicionales.
SACROPELVIC FIXATION USING ILIAC SCREWS: EVALUATION OF TECHNIQUE AND COMPLICATIONS
Authors: Mendonça Lendl do Vale , Kusabara René , Oliveira Fabio Mastromauro de , Nagasse Yoshinobu , Ribeiro Iberê , Yamazato Clóvis , Souza Eduardo Soares de
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Sacropelvic fixation arose from the need to protect the sacral instrumentation in long constructions, due to failures in the implant-bone interface and the treatment of diseases in which there is no possibilities of sacral fixation such as infections and tumors. Due to anatomic difficulties and the complex spinopelvic biomechanics several techniques were developed. The fixation with iliac screws has become according to multiple studies, a well-established technique that minimizes frequent complications such as pseudoarthrosis and implant failure. However, it has disadvantages such as iliac wing fracture and skin lesions due to the protrusion of materials. The present study aims to comprehensively review the literature on the technique taking into account relevant aspects to its better knowledge and application. Level of evidence III; Therapeutic Study.
LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS: EVALUATION OF PAIN AND LIFE QUALITY AFTER SURGICAL TREATMENT
Authors: Alvarenga Gustavo , Rotini João Otávio Araújo , Asano Leonardo Yukio Jorge , Andrade Vinícius Alves de , Cesar André Evaristo Marcondes , Valesin Filho Edgar Santiago , Rodrigues Luciano Miller Reis
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: The objective of this study was to present an analysis of progression of the quality of life and pain in patients undergoing surgical treatment of LSS and the potential correlations between individual factors and the clinical outcome observed. Methods: We studied 111 patients undergoing surgical treatment of LSS from January 2009 to December 2011 using the functional capacity (ODI) and pain (VAS) questionnaires. The preoperative data were compared statistically with the results obtained during the postoperative follow-up at one month, six months, one year, and two years. Results: The population consisted of 60 men and 51 women. The mean age was 61.16 years at the time of surgery, 33.33% were 60 years or older. When the questionnaires were applied, we found improvement in the progressive disability assessment with a mean drop of 23.65 ODI points after 6 months of the surgical treatment and 27.47 at the end of one year of surgery compared to preoperative for this scale. There was a decline of 3.84 points (mean) in the VAS at first postoperative month. Conclusion: Surgical treatment of LSS presented favorable postoperative evolution in a 2-year follow-up regarding pain and quality of life through VAS and ODI. Level of Evidence IV; Case series.
QUALITY OF LIFE IN THE PRE- AND POSTOPERATIVE PERIODS IN SPINAL FUSION AND DISCECTOMY
Authors: Rufca Gibran Franzoni , Romero Flavio Ramalho , Rufca Drielly Lívia Cristino Braga , Silva Bruna da , Oliveira Catilaine de , Lima Hellen Juliana de
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Objectives: Considering the epidemiological and functional importance of spinal pathologies and the large number of surgeries performed today, the study aimed to evaluate the impact of spinal arthrodesis and discectomy surgeries on patients’ quality of life. Methods: This is a retrospective, descriptive, and longitudinal study developed in the neurology and neurosurgery department of a strategic tertiary hospital in an inland town in the state of São Paulo. Data were collected through a telephone interview, using the Oswestry questionnaire (ODI) to assess lumbar pain in patients submitted to surgery in 2014 and 2015. Results: There was an improvement in the ODI results in all the periods analyzed. When the evaluations were subdivided by surgical type, there was an absolute improvement in the median ODI results in all procedures, however, only the cervical spine arthrodesis procedure was not statistically significant, probably due to the low number of procedures analyzed (n = 12). Conclusion: It can be concluded that the current surgical technique can contribute to the improvement of patients’ quality of life. Level of Evidence III; Comparative retrospective study.
INFLUENCE OF DIAMETER AND GEOMETRY IN THE TAPPING OF THE PILOT HOLE IN PEDICLE SCREWS
Authors: Defino Helton Luiz Aparecido , Miranda Raffaello de Freitas , Pinheiro Romulo Pedroza , Shimano Antonio Carlos
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the insertion torque and the pulling force of each screw with different diameters and tap. Methods: Polyurethane blocks with a pilot hole of 2.7 mm were used in the study. An experimental group with 5 blocks was formed, the insertion torque was evaluated with a torque meter, and the pullout strength of each Globus screw of 5.5 mm and 6.5 mm was assessed. Results: The comparison of the insertion torque on the 5.5 mm screws with pilot hole without tapping and with a smaller diameter than that of the screw (4.5 mm) and a different thread, and with the tapping with the same diameter as that of the screw (5.5 mm) and equal or different thread presented a statistical difference with a higher value of the insertion torque in the group in which the tapping was not performed. As for the pulling force of the 5.5 mm screw, the non-tapping of the pilot hole resulted in statistical difference with the same diameter of the screw (5.5 mm) and with a different thread of the screw. The pullout force on the 6.5 mm screw was higher in the group where the pilot hole was not tapped according to the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test, with significance level of p <0.05 in the comparison of the groups. Conclusions: Pilot hole tapping reduced insertion torque and pullout resistance of the pedicle screw influencing the fixation with tapping with the same screw diameter and different thread design.
GRADING SCALE OF LUMBAR DEGENERATIVE DISEASE IN FULL SPINE X-RAY
Authors: Vasconcelos Iúri Tomaz de , Sant’Anna Daniel Arnoni , Oliveira Carlos Eduardo Algaves Soares de , Herrero Carlos Fernando P. S. , Pratali Raphael de Rezende
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To present a new lumbar degenerative disease grading scale considering full spine radiography and to evaluate its inter- and intraobserver reproducibility. Methods: A total of 132 full spine radiographies in the anterior and lateral views were analyzed. The cases were independently graded by two examiners. The radiographic parameters observed were osteophytosis, loss of disc height, sclerosis and subchondral cysts, number of affected segments, deformities, and signs of instability. The grading scale was proposed as follows: Degree zero corresponded to the absence of signs of degenerative disease in the lumbar spine; Grade I – presence of signs of degenerative disease up to two segments; Grade II – involvement of three or more segments; Grade III – associated deformity or signs of instability. The intra- and interobserver reproducibility was determined by the Kappa coefficient (κ) in general and according to the age group. Results: Kappa coefficient obtained for interobserver and intraobserver analysis showed excellent overall correlation (0.855 and 0.902, respectively). When analyzed according to age, results obtained in intraobserver correlation remained excellent (κ >0.8) in all age groups. The interobserver correlation remained excellent, except in the age range of 40-59 years (κ = 0.773), although maintaining a substantial reproducibility. Conclusion: The grading scale of lumbar degenerative disease observed in full spine x-rays showed excellent inter- and intraobserver reproducibility. Level of Evidence I; Diagnostic study.
EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF GROWING RODS IN THE TREATMENT OF SCOLIOSIS IN CHILDREN UNDER 10
Authors: Montero Carlos Segundo , Meneses David , Alvarado Fernando , Godoy Wilmer , Alcalá Gabriel , Martìnez Carlos , Méndez Ricardo José
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the efficacy and safety of growing rods in the treatment of scoliosis in children aged under 10 years. Methods: A retrospective review of medical records of patients under 10 with scoliosis, treated with growing rods from the period between 1997 and 2012. Results: We identified 35 patients treated with growing rods who met the selection criteria. The average age at the start of treatment was 5.9 ± 2.3 years. Most of the patients (51.4%) showed idiopathic etiology scoliosis. Pre-surgery and post-surgery radiographic change showed a 47.7% reduction in Cobb angle (p>0.001). We identified 8 patients with some complication, the most prevalent being instrumentation failure (22.9%). The only predicting factor for post-operative complications was the total number of lengthenings performed (OR=7.03; CI 95% [1.1-45.4]; p=0.040). Conclusions: Treatment of scoliosis with growing rods in patients aged under 10 achieved a significant reduction in the magnitude of the deformity before final bone fusion. However, the rate of complications is rather high, therefore we recommend reducing the frequency of lengthenings to the minimum needed to maintain correction and longitudinal growth of the spine. Level of Evidence IV; Case series.
Elaboration and validation of an ICNP® terminology subset for patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Passinho Renata Soares , Caniçali Primo Cândida , Fioresi Mirian , Nóbrega Maria Miriam Lima da , Brandão Marcos Antônio Gomes , Romero Walckiria Garcia
Published: February 2019

ABSTRACT Objective: To elaborate a terminological subset for the International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP®) for patients with acute myocardial infarction using the Activities of Living Model. Method: A methodological study which followed the guidelines of the International Nursing Council and was based on theoretical framework of the Activities of Living Model for its elaboration. Content validation was performed by 22 nursing specialists. Results: Twenty-two (22) diagnoses and 22 nursing outcomes were elaborated. Of these, 17 nursing diagnosis statements and 17 nursing outcome statements presented Content Validity Index (CVI) ≥ 0.80. Of the 113 elaborated nursing interventions, 42 reached a CVI ≥ 0.80, and 51 interventions made up the terminological subset after the expert suggestions. Conclusion: The ICNP® was suitable for use with the Activities of Living Model, having compatible terms with those used in clinical nursing practice, and valid for construction of the terminological subset for patients with acute myocardial infarction and most likely to facilitate clinical nursing judgment.
Comparative morphometric evaluation of hepatic hemosiderosis in wild Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) infected with different Plasmodium spp. subgenera
Authors: Ewbank Ana Carolina , Strefezzi Ricardo de Francisco , Sacristán Carlos , Kolesnikovas Cristiane Kiyomi Miyaji , Martins Aryse , Mayorga Luis Felipe Silva Pereira , Vanstreels Ralph Eric Thijl , Catão-Dias José Luiz
Published: February 2019

Abstract Avian malaria is one of the most important diseases of captive penguins. We employed morphometric techniques to evaluate hepatic hemosiderosis in rehabilitating wild Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) that were negative (n = 9) or naturally infected by different subgenera of Plasmodium spp. (n = 24), according with: Plasmodium subgenera (Haemamoeba, Huffia, Other lineages, and Unidentified lineages), severity of Plasmodium histopathological lesions, and concurrent diseases, age class (juvenile or adult plumage), sex (male, female or not determined), body score (emaciated, thin, good, excellent, not available), molt, presence or absence of oil contamination upon admission, iron supplementation, and rehabilitation center. The percentage of the area occupied by hemosiderin was called ‘Index of Hepatic Hemosiderosis (IHH)’. Plasmodium-positive females presented significantly higher IHH values (17.53 ± 12.95%) than males (7.20 ± 4.25%; p = 0.041). We observed higher levels of congestion (p = 0.0182) and pneumonia (p = 0.0250) severity between Unidentified lineages vs. Huffia. We believe that the hepatic hemosiderosis observed in this study was multifactorial, the result of pathological processes caused by malaria, molting, hemoglobin and myoglobin catabolism during migration, anemia, concomitant diseases, and iron supplementation, all possibly potentiated by decreased liver mass. Further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms of these hypotheses.
Cost of Disease Progression in Patients with Metastatic Breast, Lung, and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Reyes Carolina , Engel-Nitz Nicole M. , DaCosta Byfield Stacey , Ravelo Arliene , Ogale Sarika , Bancroft Tim , Anderson Amy , Chen May , Matasar Matthew
Published: February 2019

Introduction

To reduce health care costs and improve care, payers and physician groups are piloting value-based and episodic or bundled-care payment models in oncology. Disease progression and associated costs may affect these models, particularly if such programs do not account for disease severity and progression risk across patient populations. This study estimated the incremental cost of disease progression in patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer (mBC), colorectal cancer (mCRC) and lung cancer (mLC) and compared costs among patients with and without progression.

Methods

This was a retrospective study using U.S. administrative claims data from commercial and Medicare Advantage health care enrollees with evidence of mBC, mCRC, and mLC and systemic antineoplastic agent use from July 1, 2006, to August 31, 2014. Outcome measures included disease progression, 12-month health care costs, and 3-year cumulative predictive health care costs.

Results

Of 5,709 patients with mBC, 3,707 patients with mCRC, and 5,201 patients with mLC, 56.8% of patients with mBC, 58.1% of those with mCRC, and 80.3% of those with mLC patients had evidence of disease progression over 12 months. Among patients with mBC and mCRC, adjusted and unadjusted health care costs were significantly higher among progressors versus nonprogressors. Per-patient-per-month costs, which accounted for variable follow-up time, were almost twice as high among progressors versus nonprogressors in patients with mBC, mCRC, and mLC. In each of the three cancer types, delays in progression were associated with lower health care costs.

Conclusion

Progression of mLC, mBC, and mCRC was associated with higher health care costs over a 12-month period. Delayed cancer progression was associated with substantial cost reductions in patients with each of the three cancer types.

Implications for Practice

Data on the rates and incremental health care costs of disease progression in patients with solid tumor cancers are lacking. This study estimated the incremental costs of disease progression in patients diagnosed with lung cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer and compared health care costs in patients with and without evidence of disease progression in a real-world population. The data obtained in our study quantify the economic value of delaying or preventing disease progression and may inform payers and physician groups about value-based payment programs.
Minimally Invasive Cordotomy for Refractory Cancer Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Viswanathan Ashwin , Vedantam Aditya , Hess Kenneth R. , Ochoa Jewel , Dougherty Patrick M. , Reddy Akhila S. , Koyyalagunta Dhanalakshmi , Reddy Suresh , Bruera Eduardo
Published: February 2019

Background

Up to 30% of patients with cancer continue to suffer from pain despite aggressive supportive care. The present study aimed to determine whether cordotomy can improve cancer pain refractory to interdisciplinary palliative care.

Materials and Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, we recruited patients with refractory unilateral somatic pain, defined as a pain intensity (PI) ≥4, after more than three palliative care evaluations. Patients were randomized to percutaneous computed tomography-guided cordotomy or continued interdisciplinary palliative care. The primary outcome was 33% improvement in PI at 1 week after cordotomy or study enrollment as measured by the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale.

Results

Sixteen patients were enrolled (nine female, median age 58 years). Six of seven patients (85.7%) randomized to cordotomy experienced >33% reduction in PI (median preprocedure PI = 7, range 6–10; 1 week after cordotomy median PI = 1, range 0–6; p = .022). Zero of nine patients randomized to palliative care achieved a 33% reduction in PI. Seven patients (77.8%) randomized to palliative care elected to undergo cordotomy after 1 week. All of these patients experienced >33% reduction in PI (median preprocedure PI = 8, range 4–10; 1 week after cordotomy median PI = 0, range 0–1; p = .022). No patients were withdrawn from the study because of adverse effects of the intervention.

Conclusion

These data support the use of cordotomy for pain refractory to optimal palliative care. The findings of this study justify a large-scale randomized controlled trial of percutaneous cordotomy.
Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Advanced Cancer and Pre-Existing Autoimmune Diseases Treated with Anti-Programmed Death-1 Immunotherapy: A Real-World Transverse Study
Authors: Cortellini Alessio , Buti Sebastiano , Santini Daniele , Perrone Fabiana , Giusti Raffaele , Tiseo Marcello , Bersanelli Melissa , Michiara Maria , Grassadonia Antonino , Brocco Davide , Tinari Nicola , De Tursi Michele , Zoratto Federica , Veltri Enzo , Marconcini Riccardo , Malorgio Francesco , Garufi Carlo , Russano Marco , Anesi Cecilia , Zeppola Tea , Filetti Marco , Marchetti Paolo , Botticelli Andrea , Antonini Cappellini Gian Carlo , De Galitiis Federica , Vitale Maria Giuseppa , Sabbatini Roberto , Bracarda Sergio , Berardi Rossana , Rinaldi Silvia , Tudini Marianna , Silva Rosa Rita , Pireddu Annagrazia , Atzori Francesco , Chiari Rita , Ricciuti Biagio , Iacono Daniela , Migliorino Maria Rita , Rossi Antonio , Porzio Giampiero , Cannita Katia , Ciciarelli Valeria , Fargnoli Maria Concetta , Ascierto Paolo Antonio , Ficorella Corrado
Published: February 2019

Background

Patients with a history of autoimmune diseases (AIDs) have not usually been included in clinical trials with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Materials and Methods

Consecutive patients with advanced cancer, treated with anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) agents, were evaluated according to the presence of pre-existing AIDs. The incidence of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) and clinical outcomes were compared among subgroups.

Results

A total of 751 patients were enrolled; median age was 69 years. Primary tumors were as follows: non-small cell lung cancer, 492 (65.5%); melanoma, 159 (21.2%); kidney cancer, 94 (12.5%); and others, 6 (0.8%). Male/female ratio was 499/252. Eighty-five patients (11.3%) had pre-existing AIDs, further differentiated in clinically active (17.6%) and inactive (82.4%). Among patients with pre-existing AIDs, incidence of irAEs of any grade was significantly higher when compared with patients without AIDs (65.9% vs. 39.9%). At multivariate analysis, both inactive (p = .0005) and active pre-existing AIDs (p = .0162), female sex (p = .0004), and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status <2 (p = .0030) were significantly related to a higher incidence of irAEs of any grade. No significant differences were observed regarding grade 3/4 irAEs and objective response rate among subgroups. Pre-existing AIDs were not significantly related with progression-free survival and overall survival.

Conclusion

This study quantifies the increased risk of developing irAEs in patients with pre-existing AIDs who had to be treated with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the incidence of grade 3/4 irAEs is not significantly higher when compared with control population. The finding of a greater incidence of irAEs among female patients ranks among the “hot topics” in gender-related differences in immuno-oncology.
Connaught Tunnel, UK: condition and repairs
Authors: Wilde David
Published: February 2019

The aims of this paper are to record how the Connaught Tunnel was surveyed, assessed and repaired by Crossrail for use for the new Elizabeth line in London, UK. The challenges and changes involved with implementing the repairs required to bring an example of Victorian engineering back into use again were based on Network Rail guidance and other current practice. The repairs will reduce future maintenance requirements, which will benefit railway operations in the future. Groundwater leakage remains within the tunnel as the cost of rectifying the leaks, if successful, would have been prohibitive. Prior to the Crossrail Act of 2008, consideration was given to the whole-life costing of reusing the tunnel as opposed to boring new tunnels, and the cost of new tunnels was considered to be higher than the costs of repairs, maintenance and ongoing drainage requirements to reuse the existing tunnel.
Water transport in foam concrete: visualisation and numerical modelling
Authors: She Wei , Zhang Yunsheng , Miao Changwen , Hong Jinxiang , Mu Song
Published: February 2019

Most problems concerning the durability and functional degradation of foam concrete are intimately related to water transfer. The water transfer behaviour in foam concrete under capillary absorption and full submersion conditions is studied in this paper. To overcome the low resolution between water and cement paste in in-situ X-ray computed tomography (XCT) tests, caesium chloride (CsCl; 6 wt%) was used as a contrast-enhancement agent. The dynamic changes to the wetting head and water distribution in foam concrete were successfully visualised in two and three dimensions. The multiscale pore structure of foam concrete was quantitatively characterised by a combination of mercury intrusion porosimetry (micropore <10 μm) and XCT (macropore >10 μm). The results show that the microporosity governs a large part of the capillary suction of water due to the high capillary force in these micropores. However, for macropores, they are partially connected and can hold water under pressure and simultaneously hinder capillary rise due to the blocking of the capillary network and prolonged transfer tortuosity. Finally, a numerical finite-volume model was used to simulate the dynamic water transfer process directly based on the XCT binary images. The modelling results agreed well with the experimental results.
Exposed-aggregate areas and photocatalytic efficiency of photocatalytic aggregate mortar
Authors: Zheng Li , Jones Roderick Martyn , Yang Lu , Hakki Amer , MacPhee Donald Elliot
Published: February 2019

By having the potential to remove nitrogen oxide (NOx) air pollutants generated by vehicles and other anthropogenic combustion processes, particularly in urban areas, photocatalytic concrete has attracted significant commercial interests all over the world. In contrast to typical photocatalyst applications in concrete, in which titanium dioxide (TiO2) – the most utilised photocatalyst – is dispersed within the cementitious materials, the study reported here utilises titanium dioxide-coated aggregates. Used in an exposed-aggregate finish, this format aims to have a higher photocatalytic efficiency than titanium dioxide cement-bound materials. An exposed titanium dioxide-coated aggregate has the potential to provide a significantly higher proportion of catalyst to direct ultraviolet radiation and minimise lost performance due to occlusion. The exposed-aggregate surface area on the test mortar samples was measured with three-dimensional imaging techniques. Thereafter, photocatalytic efficiency was measured in comparison with that of the titanium dioxide cement mortar. The relationship between exposed area for photocatalytic reaction and photocatalytic efficiency was established. This indicated that the photonic efficiency increases with increasing exposed area, regardless of the method to support the catalyst – that is, either within the cement paste or externally mounted on the aggregate. The data confirm that exposing coated aggregate significantly enhances photonic efficiency.
Comparing circulating fluidised bed fly ash and limestone as additions for cement
Authors: Carro-López Diego , González-Fonteboa Belén , Eiras-López Javier , Seara-Paz Sindy
Published: February 2019

Circulating fluidised bed combustion (CFBC) power plants produce large ash particles with elevated calcium (Ca) content as a by-product. Although it has pozzolanic potential, CFBC ash is not commonly accepted as an addition for cement. To enhance the activity of this material, in this experimental study CFBC ash was ground to a fineness equal to that of cement, simulating a joint milling with the clinker. This ground fly ash (GFA) was included in blended cements in ratios of 10, 20 and 40%. These new cements with GFA surpassed 52·5 MPa at 28 d for even substitutions as high as 40%. In comparison with a limestone addition – the most used in Europe – the cements with GFA presented higher compressive strength and better durability, with the only drawback being a slight reduction in workability. This CFBC fly ash could be used as clinker replacement once ground to a similar fineness to that of cement, allowing high reductions in clinker consumption and, consequently, its environmental impact.
Bond model of 15·2 mm strand with consideration of concrete creep and shrinkage
Authors: Kareem Rahman S. , Al-Mohammedi Ahmed , Dang Canh N. , Martí-Vargas José R. , Hale William Micah
Published: February 2019

The bond between prestressing strands and concrete in the transfer zone of pretensioned concrete members is a complicated mechanism. Concrete creep and shrinkage are dominant time-dependent factors that affect the strand bond. In this study, a semi-analytical bond stress–slip model was developed, based on test results of the standard test for strand bond for 15·2 mm strands. Effects of concrete creep and shrinkage are incorporated in the model. Measured transfer lengths collected from the literature are compared with predicted values, to validate the accuracy of the bond stress–slip model. Analytical results indicate that the strand bond decreases over time, and is almost constant after 360 d of age. An equation is proposed to predict the transfer length of the prestressing strand at 28 d, with an incorporation of concrete creep and shrinkage effects.
Glutaraldehyde fixation v1
Authors: Cencen Veronika
Published: February 2019

Fixation of adherent mammalian cells for AFM imaging
Supplement Figure v1
Authors: Zhang Lijun , zhang lijun
Published: February 2019

supplement figure 1
PBMC Isolation v1
Authors: DK Moore Dannielle
Published: February 2019

Isolation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using the Ficoll density gradient method.
Modulation of general and specific cognitive precursors of early mathematical performance v1
Authors: Aragón Estíbaliz , Cerda Gamal , Aguilar Manuel , Mera Carlos , I. Navarro José
Published: February 2019

The main goal of this study was to analyse, using structural equation modeling, the contribution of predictors of both domain-general (working memory, processing speed and receptive vocabulary) and domain-specific (estimation and magnitude comparison) processes to informal mathematical performance (numbering, comparison, calculation and understanding of concepts) in preschoolers. A total of 158 preschool students (ages ranging from 52 to 64 months) participated in the investigation. Students were assessed with informal tasks measuring mathematical thinking, numerical estimation, symbolic and non-symbolic comparison-making, coding, receptive vocabulary, and backward digit span. Results showed that a structural equation model for multiple indicators and several factors could explain informal mathematical thinking capacity in young children. The model reduced specific-domain factor effects such as magnitude comparison. In conclusion, the effect of working memory was found to be less than the straight impact of the general-domain predictors considered in the study.
Research on the Assessment System Construction of EAP Writing Skill from an Eco-linguistic Perspective
Authors: Zhang Jinzhu
Published: February 2019

This paper comes up with an assessment system of EAP writing development from an Eco-linguistic perspective based on a literature review of English writing construction and assessment of writing skills development under an ecological dynamic model. The paper clarifies that the writing construction in academic contexts consists of genre and rhetorical knowledge, process, strategy knowledge，and academic discourse community knowledge. The paper elucidates that the ecological dynamic assessment of EAP writing skills, as just being conducted at Tianjin Polytechnic University, has been proved to be workable in establishing bio-ecological links between the classroom learning contexts and the broader educational contexts at university. In the research, the individualized and comprehensive employment of assessment tools such as textual analysis，one-on-one interviews，case study and writing portfolios helps achieve dynamic assessment and facilitate ecological transfer of EAP writing competence.
Potasyum uygulamasının karaçam (Pinus nigra Arnold.) fidanlarının gelişimine etkisi
Authors: ÇÖMEZ Özden , GEZGİN Sait
Published: February 2019

Bu çalışmanın amacı, farklı miktarlarda potasyum uygulamasının karaçam fidanlarının gelişimine etkilerini belirlemektir. Çalışma Eskişehir Orman Fidanlık Müdürlüğü serasında, polietilen torbalarda perlit ortamına ekimi yapılan Afyonkarahisar-Ahırdağı orjinli karaçam tohumlarından yetiştirilmiş 1+0 yaşlı fidanlarda yürütülmüştür. Çalışma kapsamında farklı miktarda (0, 23, 35, 47, 100 ve 150 ppm) potasyum uygulamalarına tabi tutulan fidanların besin içerikleri ile kök boğazı çapı, fidan boyu, kök uzunluğu, yan kök sayıları ve fidan ağırlıkları belirlenmiştir. Elde edilen veriler ANOVA ve Kruskal-Wallis testi ile değerlendirilmiştir. Uygulanan potasyumun miktarına bağlı olarak fidanlarda boy, kök boğazı çapı ve yan kök sayılarının istatistiksel olarak anlamlı düzeyde değiştiği belirlenmiştir. En iyi boy ve çap gelişimi 23 ppm işleminde, en fazla yan kök oluşumu ise 100 ppm işleminde elde edilmiştir. Sonuç olarak karaçam fidanlarında potasyum uygulaması ile çap ve boy gelişimi daha iyi, yan kök sayısı daha fazla olan fidanlar elde edilerek kurak ve yarı kurak bölge ağaçlandırmalarında başarının artması sağlanabilir.
Türkiye’de Zihinsel Engellilerde Sanat Eğitimi İle İlgili Lisansüstü Tezlerin İncelenmesi
Authors: ÇAĞLAYAN Nuray
Published: February 2019

Türk

eğitim sisteminde; okulöncesi eğitimden yükseköğretime kadar çeşitli basamaklar

yer almaktadır. Örgün eğitimi oluşturan bu basamaklarda özel gereksinimleri

olan bireyler için hazırlanmış eğitim programları bulunmaktadır. İşitme

engelli, görme engelli, zihinsel engelli bireyler ve üstün zekalı bireyler sahip

oldukları nitelikler gereği özel eğitime ihtiyaç duymaktadırlar. Bu çalışmanın

amacı; zihinsel engellilerde sanat eğitimi ile ilgili lisansüstü tezlerin

incelenmesidir. Çalışmanın gerçekleştirilmesinde nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden

doküman incelemesi tekniği kullanılmıştır. Bu bağlamda; çalışma amaçlarına uyan

16 lisansüstü tez incelenmiş ve çalışma sorularına göre analiz edilmiştir.

Çalışma sonucunda; zihinsel engellilerde sanat eğitimi ile ilgili lisansüstü

tezlerin 2001-2018 yılları arasında yapıldığı, 11 yüksek lisans ve 5 doktora

tezinin bulunduğu belirlenmiştir. Toplam 11 üniversitede yapılan tezlerin en

yüksek oranla (5 tez) Gazi Üniversitesinde olduğu görülmüştür. Sanat eğitimi

bağlamında ele alınan konuların belli başlıklar altında gruplandığı ve benzer

konuların tezlerde yer aldığı sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Bu sonuçlara bağlı olarak

gerek doktora gerekse yüksek lisans düzeyinde bilimsel araştırmaların

artırılması ve tezlerde konu çeşitliliğinin sağlanması önerilmiştir
Ortaokul Matematik Öğretmenlerinin Ders Tasarımlarının Öğretime Entegrasyonu
Authors: TANIŞLI Dilek , AYBER Gözde , KARAKUZU Burcu
Published: February 2019

Bu

çalışmada farklı mesleki deneyimlere sahip ortaokul matematik öğretmenlerinin

ders tasarımlarının ve bu tasarımlarını öğretimlerine entegre etme süreçlerinin

Dörtlü Bilgi Modeli (DBM) bağlamında incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Araştırmada

nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden durum çalışması deseni benimsenmiştir.

Araştırmanın katılımcılarını Milli Eğitim Bakanlığı (MEB)’na bağlı okullarda

çalışan ve mesleki deneyimleri 2 ve 18 yıl olan iki ortaokul matematik

öğretmeni oluşturmuştur. Katılımcıların sahip oldukları alan ve alan öğretim

bilgilerinin ve ders sırasında bu bilgilerini öğretimlerine entegre etme

süreçlerinin incelenmesi amacıyla öğretmenlerin ikişer ders saati gözlemlenmiş

ve kaydedilmiş, gözlem öncesinde öğretmenlerle yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmeler

gerçekleştirilmiştir. Verilerin analizi ve yorumlanmasında ise tematik analiz

kullanılmış, temalar DBM’nin birimleri ve kodları esas alınarak belirlenmiştir.

Verilerin analizi sonucunda her iki öğretmenin işlenen konuya ilişkin alan

bilgilerinin yeterli olmadığı, alan öğretim bilgileri bağlamında ise özellikle

öğrenci düşüncesini sorgulamada deneyimli öğretmenin daha başarılı olduğu

belirlenmiştir. Öğretim sırasında deneyimli öğretmenin kavramlar arasındaki

ilişkiyi daha iyi kurabildiği, diğer öğretmenin ise işlem odaklı bir öğretim

gerçekleştirdiği tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca mesleğe yeni başlayan öğretmenle

karşılaştırıldığında deneyimli öğretmenin planlarında öğretimi sırasında

karşılaşabileceği beklenmeyen durumları göz önünde bulundurduğu ve gerektiğinde

ders planını revize ettiği görülmüştür
Identification of six novel factor viii gene variants using next generation sequencing and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Al-Allaf Faisal A , Abduljaleel Zainularifeen , Bogari Neda M , Owaidah Tarek M A , Taher Mohiuddin M , Athar Mohammad , Abalkhail Halah , Elbjeirami Wafa , Bouazzaoui Abdellatif
Published: February 2019

Hemophilia A is an X-linked recessive hemorrhagic disorder caused by variants in the F8 gene. To identify known and novel causative variants in hemophilia A, we have carried out genetic analysis among Saudi patients. Twenty-one patients, who were negative for inv-1/inv-22, were selected for analysis by next generation sequencing, thereafter confirmed by Sanger sequencing. In addition, the functionality and structural changes in the variant proteins were assessed using Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and compared with wild-type and native proteins. In the samples we analyzed, we found 10 variants in 12 individuals; among them, five were novel and five were previously reported. The novel variants were located at positions: c.6130_6131insC, c.5815G>C, c.5493C>G, c.3734_3740delinsATTTCT and c.3744A>T. With the exception of one variant which was silent, the MD simulation revealed that the observed variants were causing severe structural changes when compared to the native protein and resulted in a loss of the protein’s function. The MD analysis is in line with clinical data of patients who had <1% Factor VIII levels (severe hemophilia) with episodic bleeding, and were on more than one treatment. Moreover, some patients presented with chronic joint disability. These results will enrich the spectrum of variants and enlarge the factor VIII protein’s database in the Saudi Arabian population.
Downpour! – Flood risk communication through interactive immersive street games
Authors: Wendler Jana , Shuttleworth Emma L.
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we discuss the potential role of immersive interactive games in public engagement with environmental science, in this case flood risk management. Recent high magnitude storm events in the UK have fuelled great public interest in flooding. However, there remains an apparent
mismatch between the scientific voice of flooding research and the wider public discourse, which we argue games may be able to address. Downpour! is a street game that casts players as flood risk advisers in a fictional flooding scenario. Players work in teams to respond to an immediate crisis
and make longer-term decisions about mitigation through a series of encounters with actors, films, puzzles and treasure hunts. The game was created by a street game designer in collaboration with film-makers, environmental scientists and public institutions, with performances at the Manchester
Science Festival and the Festival of Social Science 2016. Based on observations and responses from these events, we discuss how the game fostered understanding of, and engagement with, decision-making in flood risk management. Games offer people the agency to experiment with decisions in a
safe space. As a result, we found that players begin to independently interrogate both scientific and political dimensions of flood management. The immersive nature of a street game further creates an emotional connection with the issues, which has the potential for triggering active involvement
in flood-related efforts. We conclude by reflecting on the process behind the game creation, commenting on the strengths and difficulties of innovative collaborations between environmental scientists and creative practitioners.
Supporting engagement in research through a game design competition
Authors: Iacovides Ioanna , Cox Anna , Furniss Dominic , Stawarz Katarzyna , Jennett Charlene , Adams Anne
Published: February 2019

Digital games are an engaging medium that have previously been used for communicating research to a variety of audiences. However, there is an opportunity for engaging people more deeply by involving them in creating games. This article reports on a game design competition, based on
participatory design principles and game jam practices, which challenged university students to design games within the context of a research project. Based on their interpretations of research on human error in health care, teams created four games to be disseminated online to a wider public
audience. We outline the competition format and reflect on the extent to which it was successful.
Involving young people through co-production and widening participation approaches: Reflections from school-based engagement
Authors: Campbell Sanchika , Gazard Billy , Woodhead Charlotte , Harber-Aschan Lisa , Beards Stephanie , Harber-Aschan Jonathan , Gazzard Molly , Yaman Esma , Murugesu Angela , Hatch Stephani L.
Published: February 2019

Co-production techniques that involve student voice have been shown to empower young people and shape their learning experiences, while widening participation approaches can improve students' educational aspirations. However, there is limited literature on the impact that a combination
of co-production and widening participation approaches might have on students' learning, aspirations and self-esteem in the UK. The Research Methods in School Education (RISE) educational course aims to: (1) create a collaborative educational activity through co-production, giving young people
an opportunity to voice their opinions; (2) raise awareness of community health issues; and (3) increase access to higher education. This paper describes and evaluates co-producing the RISE educational course with students and teachers from a sixth-form college in south-east London, drawing
on students' voice, and on insights from teachers and researchers. We also assess the contribution of the course to improved awareness of community health issues, students' educational or career aspirations, and self-esteem.
Loneliness and the letter: Co-developing cross-generational letter writing with higher education students and older people
Authors: Binnie Georgina
Published: February 2019

Writing Back is an intergenerational letter-writing project that has been matching University of Leeds students as pen pals with older Yorkshire residents since 2014. Working in collaboration with a principal investigator based in the university's School of English, students and older
participants have been facilitating conversation about loneliness, home and belonging via their exchange of cross-generational correspondence and their engagement with archival images of the county. This article reflects upon the successes and limitations of using co-productive letter writing
and visual methodologies in qualitative loneliness research. In carrying out a narrative analysis of Writing Back's correspondence, it demonstrates how letter writing can be used as an effective methodological tool to generate new understanding of loneliness in multiple age demographics.
Determinación de los parámetros de un modelo constitutivo hipoplástico en arcilla para su utilización en el modelo de elemento finito Tochnog/ a partir de pruebas de laboratorio
Authors: Hernández-Villegas Sofía
Published: February 2019

Un modelo constitutivo intenta modelar el comportamiento del suelo, en la actualidad existe gran variedad de estos, uno de los modelos más conocidos es el de Mohr-Coulomb, sin embargo este no toma en cuenta el comportamiento no lineal del suelo, un modelo hipoplástico si lo considera, lo cual es de gran importancia en la práctica actual de la ingeniería. La hipoplasticidad fue desarrollada inicialmente para materiales granulares, sin embargo dado las ventajas de usar un modelo este tipo, Masín [2] propuso un modelo para arcillas, las cuales en ocasiones son utilizadas para diques y presas, que son de gran importancia y un modelo de este tipo permite un acercamiento mayor a la realidad al conocer el comportamiento no lineal e histerético de estas. La siguiente investigación tiene como objetivo explicar el procedimiento para la determinación de los parámetros necesarios para desarrollar un modelo hipoplástico de acuerdo con lo planteado por Masín [2] utilizando la arcilla caolinita, por medio de ensayos de laboratorio como lo son el ensayo de corte directo, consolidación y índices básicos. Con los resultados obtenidos se observa que los parámetros a utilizar se determinan fácilmente con ensayos de laboratorio simples y en conclusión se observa que es un método factible de poner en práctica que a la vez es capaz de reproducir el comportamiento del suelo eficientemente desde las pequeñas deformaciones hasta su falla y que puede ser implementado en cálculos dinámicos por medio de un software de elemento finito.
Psychometric Properties of the Brazilian Version of the Nurses' Knowledge of High-Alert Medications Scale: A Pilot Study
Authors: Apolinário Priscila Peruzzo , da Silva Juliana Bastoni , de Oliveira Deborah Cristina , Gonçalves Natália , Rodrigues Roberta Cunha Matheus , de Melo Lima Maria Helena
Published: February 2019

Background and Purpose:

High-alert medication is considered to be a medication that presents a high risk of causing significant patient harm when used erroneously and its consequences can be fatal. The Nurses' Knowledge of High-Alert Medication scale (NKHAM) is a tool available to evaluate the knowledge of nurses in practice about this issue.

Aim:

This pilot study aimed to measure the reliability and known-groups validity of the Brazilian version of the NKHAM.

Methods:

This pilot psychometric study was carried out at the Faculty of Nursing and University Hospital of the University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. Forty nursing students and 44 registered nurses working in complex clinical or surgical settings completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Brazilian version of the NKHAM. The Kuder–Richardson 20 (KR-20) coefficient and Mann–Whitney test were used to establish reliability and known-groups validity. A significance level of ≤ 0.05 was adopted for all the analyses.

Results:

Analyses demonstrated preliminary acceptable reliability scores of 0.55 and 0.60 in domains A and B of NKHAM, respectively. A significant difference was found between the nursing students' and the registered nurses' knowledge of high-alert medications, demonstrating the scale's ability to discriminate between the two groups.

Implications for Practice:

Although this is pilot study, results suggest that the Brazilian version of the NKHAM might be a reliable and valid tool to measure nurses' knowledge of high-alert medications.
A Program Model Describing a Community-Based Mother and Infant Health Program
Authors: Guo Yuqing , Rousseau Julie , Bender Miriam , Lee Jung-Ah , Pimentel Pamela , Bojorquez Yvette , Silva Michele , Olshansky Ellen
Published: February 2019

Background and Purpose:

The objective of this study was to formulate a MOMS Orange County program model to describe the components and function of a successful community-based maternal and infant health program.

Methods:

A logic framework was used to guide the development of the MOMS program model. Twenty-five MOMS staff members were interviewed; MOMS documents and existing research literature were reviewed. Content analyses were used to identify themes of interviews and the review guide was used to summarize the documents.

Results:

The key components of the MOMS program were identified to formulate a narrative and graphic model. The main elements of this model included: target population (underserved women who have low socioeconomic status and have limited access to healthcare in Orange County); theoretical assumptions (social determinants of health, human ecology, self-efficacy); goals (empower women, enhance health of infants, strengthen families); inputs (funded by public and private sources; 50 staff members); activities (care-coordination home visitation community-center group health education); outputs (the number of home visitations, referrals to medical and/or psychological services, and group health education classes); and outcomes (short-term: healthy pregnancy, birth outcomes, family support; medium-term: postpartum well-being, infant development, family functioning; long-term: women's well-being, children's development, family relationships. Future research should test how this model functions to empirically improve maternal, newborn, child, and family health.

Implications for Practice:

The MOMS program provides a new approach to community-based maternal and infant health interventions focusing on health promotion and disease prevention for underserved families in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.