bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid, Single‐View Speckle‐Tracking–Based Method for Examining Left Ventricular Systolic and Diastolic Function in Point of Care Ultrasound
Authors: Mauermann Eckhard , Bouchez Stefaan , Bove Thierry , Vandenheuvel Michael , Wouters Patrick
Published: May 2020

Objectives

A rapid, reliable quantitative assessment of left ventricular systolic and diastolic function is important for patient treatment in urgent and dynamic settings. Quantification of annular velocities based on a single 2‐dimensional image loop, rather than on Doppler velocities, could be useful in point‐of‐care or focused cardiac ultrasound. We hypothesized that novel speckle‐tracking–based mitral annular velocities would correlate with reference standard tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) velocities in a focused cardiac ultrasound–esque setting.

Methods

Two echocardiographers each performed transthoracic echocardiographic measurements before and after induction of anesthesia in supine patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Speckle‐tracking echocardiography (STE)‐based systolic (S'STE) and diastolic (E'STE and A'STE) velocities were compared to TDI and global longitudinal strain/strain rate. We also compared mitral annular displacement by speckle tracking with M‐mode imaging.

Results

Twenty‐five patients were included and examined in both preinduction and postinduction states. Speckle‐tracking–based velocities correlated with TDI measurements in both states (S′, r = 0.73 and 0.76; E′, r = 0.87 and 0.65; and A′, r = 0.65 and 0.73), showing a mean bias of 25% to 30% of the reference standard measurement. The correlation of S'STE with strain and the strain rate (S‐wave) and E'STE with the strain rate (E‐wave) was good in awake, spontaneously breathing patients but was less strong in the ventilated state. Similarly, displacement by speckle tracking correlated with M‐mode measurements in both states (r = 0.91 and 0.84). Measurements required medians of 31 and 34 seconds; reproducibility was acceptable for S'STE and E'STE.

Conclusions

Speckle‐tracking–based mitral annular velocities and displacement correlate well with conventional measures as well as with deformation imaging. They may be clinically useful in rapidly assessing both systolic and diastolic function from a single 2‐dimensional image loop.
Radial solutions of semilinear elliptic equations with prescribed asymptotic behavior
Authors: Ibrahim Hassan
Published: May 2020

We consider semilinear elliptic equations of the form on . Given a suitable positive root z of g, we discuss the existence of positive radial solutions u with .
Online Mapping With the Deep Brain Stimulation Lead: A Novel Targeting Tool in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Milosevic Luka , Scherer Maximilian , Cebi Idil , Guggenberger Robert , Machetanz Kathrin , Naros Georgios , Weiss Daniel , Gharabaghi Alireza
Published: May 2020

Background

Beta‐frequency oscillations (13–30 Hz) are a subthalamic hallmark in patients with Parkinson's disease, and there is increased interest in their utility as an intraoperative marker.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to assess whether beta activity measured directly from macrocontacts of deep brain stimulation leads could be used (a) as an intraoperative electrophysiological approach for guiding lead placements and (b) for physiologically informed stimulation delivery.

Methods

Every millimeter along the surgical trajectory, local field‐potential data were collected from each macrocontact, and power spectral densities were calculated and visualized (n = 39 patients). This was done for online intraoperative functional mapping and post hoc statistical analyses using 2 methods: generating distributions of spectral activity along surgical trajectories and direct delineation (presence versus lack) of beta peaks. In a subset of patients, this approach was corroborated by microelectrode recordings. Furthermore, the match rate between beta peaks at the final target position and the clinically determined best stimulation site were assessed.

Results

Subthalamic recording sites were delineated by both methods of reconstructing functional topographies of spectral activity along surgical trajectories at the group level (P < 0.0001). Beta peaks were detected when any portion of the 1.5 mm macrocontact was within the microelectrode‐defined subthalamic border. The highest beta peak at the final implantation site corresponded to the site of active stimulation in 73.3% of hemispheres (P < 0.0001). In 93.3% of hemispheres, active stimulation corresponded to the first‐highest or second‐highest beta peak.

Conclusions

Online measures of beta activity with the deep brain stimulation macroelectrode can be used to inform surgical lead placement and contribute to optimization of stimulation programming procedures. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Encrypted polynomial control based on tailored two‐party computation
Authors: Schulze Darup Moritz
Published: May 2020

Encrypted control enables confidential controller evaluations in cloud‐based or networked control systems. Roughly speaking, an encrypted controller is a modified control algorithms that is capable of computing encrypted control actions based on encrypted system states. Encrypted control has been realized using different tools from cryptography such as homomorphic encryption, secret sharing, and multiparty computation. However, the vast majority of existing encrypted controllers is linear or makes intensive use of encrypted linear operations. In this article, we present a novel and flexible method for the encrypted implementation of arbitrary polynomial controllers. Technically, our approach builds on tailored two‐party computation combined with secret sharing and additively homomorphic encryption.
Surface‐interface investigations of an ultrathin pulsed laser deposited NiO/ZnO bilayer structure
Authors: Trivedi Ayushi , Choudhary Ram Janay , Das Arijeet , Rai Sanjay Kumar , Tiwari Manoj Kumar , Sinha Anil Kumar
Published: May 2020

We hereby report detailed structural and morphological studies for an ultrathin NiO/ZnO bilayer structure grown on sapphire (001) substrate using pulsed laser deposition technique. The combined X‐ray reflectivity (XRR) and grazing incidence X‐ray fluorescence (GIXRF) studies revealed formation of a low‐density defective ZnO interfacial layer of thickness ~32 Å at the ZnO/sapphire interface prior to growth of main ZnO layer. Our results further indicate that the variation of electron density across the NiO/ZnO bilayer structure is smooth and we do not observe presence of any interface layer between them. X‐ray diffraction measurements show that deposited ZnO layer is epitaxial in nature whereas NiO is highly oriented along (100) direction. The angle dependent X‐ray absorption near edge fine structure (XANES) measurements at Ni–K edge has been utilized to determine depth‐resolved oxidation state of Ni and the results have been correlated with the depth‐resolved electron density of NiO layer. The method described here offers nondestructive determination of the microstructural parameters as well as depth‐resolved mapping of oxidation state of a thin film‐based heterojunction device. It extends several advantages over destructive methods which are abundantly reported in literature.
Mussel‐Inspired Surface Acrylation on Graphene Oxide Using Acrylic Surface Primers and Its Hydrogel‐Based Applications: Sustained Drug Release and Tissue Scaffolds
Authors: Park Kyu Ha , Jung Jaewon , Yim Sang‐Gu , Kang Mi Ju , Kwon Gibum , Hwang Dae Youn , Yang Seung Yun , Seo Sungbaek
Published: May 2020

Composite hydrogels integrated with graphene oxide were prepared to enable the sustained release of loads for graphene‐based aromatic drug delivery and enhanced cell adhesion for tissue scaffolds. The surface of graphene oxide was readily transformed by the adsorption of acrylic surface primer (SP) without chemical reactions. The surface modification was verified by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction spectra. The acrylated graphene oxide (SP‐GO) was photocrosslinked with acrylate groups of poly(ethylene glycol) to generate a composite hydrogel (SP‐GO hydrogel). Based on the molecular weight of poly(ethylene glycol), the hydrogels showed a swelling ratio range of ∼5–20, respectively. The SP‐GO did not change noticeably mechanical properties and inner structures of the hydrogels. Aromatic doxorubicin (DOX) was entrapped in the hydrogels with good yield and demonstrates the potential for a drug delivery carrier. The released DOX from the hydrogel containing SP‐GO (70.56% of entrapped DOX) exhibited a sustained release profile with reduced release after five days in a wet environment compared to the released DOX from a hydrogel without SP‐GO (92.29% of entrapped DOX). DOX is supposed to be attracted to graphene oxide and is physically entrapped inside the hydrogels. Moreover, bone MG‐63 cells entrapped in the SP‐GO hydrogel showed increased TGF‐β and fibronectin expression levels. This implies that SP‐GO contributes to enhancing cell growth and adhesion by providing cell‐laid structural support.
Transformation of Inclusions in a Complicated‐Deoxidized Heavy Rail Steels During Heating
Authors: Zhang Yuexin , Zhang Lifeng , Chu Yanping , Ren Qiang , Wang Jujin , Liu Nan , Chen Zhiyong , Zhi Jianguo
Published: May 2020

The transformation of inclusions in a heavy rail steel during heating is investigated in laboratory experiments. When the steel is heated at 1000–1300 °C, inclusions of CaO–SiO2–Al2O3–MgO are transformed into CaS–MgO·Al2O3 ones and the contents of CaS and Al2O3 in inclusions increase, whereas those of CaO and SiO2 decrease. When the steel is heated at 1400 °C, the MgO·Al2O3 phase in inclusions precipitates, whereas CaS, CaO, and SiO2 still exist, which is caused by the lower thermodynamic driving force at high temperature. With the holding time increasing from 0 to 7 h, the composition of inclusions tends to the equilibrium value which is predicted using Factsage. The transformation phenomenon is validated using thermodynamic analysis and a kinetic model is established to predict the composition of inclusions during heating. The MgO·Al2O3 phase formed in inclusions in the steel during heating results in an exposure of MgO·Al2O3 spinel inclusions after rolling, which are rigid and harmful to the performance of steel rails.
Effect of Cooling Condition on Fatigue Behavior of the Forged EA4T Steel
Authors: Li Changyou , Dai Weibing , Liu Yuzhuo , Xu Wenze , Zhang Yimin , Tan Zhi
Published: May 2020

Hot‐forged EA4T steel is fabricated under the air, stack, and sand cooling conditions. Laser scanning confocal microscopy is used to analyze the microstructure. Mechanical properties and fatigue behavior are evaluated. A fatigue fracture appearance is observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The differences in mechanical properties are explored according to microstructure and final fracture feature. Based on dislocation slip, the mechanism of fatigue crack nucleation is revealed. The effect of polygonal ferrite on dislocation slip and cleavage fracture is discussed. Furthermore, the crucial issue affecting the fatigue behavior of EA4T steel under different cooling conditions is found. The sand cooling condition is beneficial to fatigue performance. In contrast, secondary cracks decrease the fatigue lives of the sample under the air cooling condition.
Waiting Game: Rhetorical Evocations of Canada in U.S. Health Care Debates
Authors: Skinner Daniel , Strawhun David , Gomes Jory
Published: May 2020

American health policy scholars often use comparisons with Canada to illustrate the benefits and liabilities of certain policy developments, especially concerning single‐payer health care. Few scholars seem to have taken note, however, of the rhetorical work that comparisons with Canada do in American politics. Moving from policy to politics, this article seeks to understand the key rhetorical patterns that characterize evocations of Canada within American health‐care debates. Through an analysis of almost 10 years of American media, the authors argue that five rhetorical frames—waiting, misrepresentation, Canadians traveling to the United States, health outcomes, and the fact that the Canadian system “is not perfect”—comprise the key political dynamics in which rhetoric about Canada plays a role. Ultimately, the authors argue that the evocation of Canada in American health‐care politics creates a policy environment in which nuance and imperfection cannot be acknowledged, thereby forestalling problem solving.
The Moral Status of the Embryo: The Second Japanese Path
Authors: Akabayashi Akira
Published: May 2020

In this chapter, I illustrate another Japanese strategy for dealing with bioethical issues, in addition to the fusion/transformation strategy that was discussed earlier in the brain-death debate. In order to introduce to the concept of ambiguity in Japan, I refer to the Nobel Lecture by Kenzaburo Oe, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1994.

Following this, in order to explain another Japanese strategy in more detail, I refer to the governmental committee discussion in Japan regarding the moral status of the human embryo following the birth of Dolly, the first cloned sheep, in 1996. This second Japanese strategy was abstracted from the in-depth content analysis of the meeting minutes of the Bioethics Committee of the Council for Science and Technology. In addition to the fusion/transformation strategy discussed around the brain-death debate, the readers will come to understand Japan’s “vagueness/ambiguity” strategy which has many advantages but also has significant shortcomings. This strategy is similar to that in which issues are not perceived as black or white and are instead resolved in an indirect way. After all, a human embryo is neither a thing nor a person, but a “sprout of human life.” The discussion on the moral status of the human embryo in Japan is, as I explain below, heavily influenced by philosophies of the West.

Lastly, I touch on the discussion of abortion in Japan.
Objektive und subjektive Bewertung eines strukturierten Vorgehens zur Beurteilung von Computertomographien der Nasennebenhöhlen
Authors: Hildenbrand T. , Krahe A. , Ketterer M. C. , Offergeld C.
Published: May 2020

Hintergrund

Die Voraussetzung zur Vermeidung potenziell schwerwiegender Komplikationen in der Nasennebenhöhlenchirurgie ist eine fundierte Kenntnis der individuellen Anatomie. Für die Nasennebenhöhlen stellt die Computertomographie (CT) die Bildgebung der Wahl dar, um die individuelle Anatomie und das Ausmaß der Erkrankung präoperativ darzustellen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Das Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist die Bewertung des Nutzens einer CT-Checkliste zur Identifikation wichtiger anatomischer Normvarianten in der CT der Nasennebenhöhlen.

Material und Methoden

Jung- und Altassistent*innen der HNO-Klinik wurden gebeten, CTs der Nasennebenhöhlen vor und nach der Einführung der CLOSE-Kriterien auf anatomische Normvarianten zu untersuchen. Der Prozentsatz der korrekt identifizierten Normvarianten wurde berechnet. Zusätzlich wurde der subjektive Nutzen anhand eines Fragebogens beurteilt.

Ergebnisse

Sechs Jung- und 6 Altassistent*innen wurden in die Studie eingeschlossen. Die Rate der korrekt identifizierten Normvarianten verbesserte sich nach der Einführung der CLOSE-Kriterien signifikant von 23,1 auf 50,9 % bzw. von 24 auf 39,8 %. Die subjektive Beurteilung der CLOSE-Checkliste war sehr positiv.

Schlussfolgerung

Ein strukturiertes Vorgehen zur Analyse von CTs der Nasennebenhöhlen kann die Identifikation kritischer anatomischer Strukturen verbessern und wird von Weiterbildungsassistenten als sehr hilfreich bewertet.
Non-equilibrium theories of rarefied gases: internal variables and extended thermodynamics
Authors: Kovács Róbert , Madjarević Damir , Simić Srboljub , Ván Péter
Published: May 2020

Limits of classical constitutive laws such as Fourier and Navier–Stokes equations are discovered since decades. However, the proper extensions—generalizations of these—are not unique. They differ in the underlying physical principles and in modeling capabilities. In this paper, two different theories are discussed and compared to each other, namely the kinetic theory-based rational extended thermodynamics (RET) and non-equilibrium thermodynamics with internal variables (NET-IV). First, the paper starts with the case of rigid heat conductors summarizing the result achieved so far. Then, a typical example of compressible bodies is shown by presenting the first generalization for rarefied gases, called Meixner’s theory. It is further extended using generalized entropy current in the framework of NET-IV. It is shown how its structure is related to RET and how the compatibility between them can be acquired.
Minimally Invasive Versus Open Pancreatectomies for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: A Propensity‐Score‐Matched Study
Authors: Tan Hwee‐Leong , Teo Roxanne Y. A. , Syn Nicholas L. , Teo Jin‐Yao , Lee Ser‐Yee , Cheow Peng‐Chung , Chow Pierce K. H. , Chung Alexander Y. F. , Ooi London L. P. J. , Chan Chung‐Yip , Goh Brian K. P.
Published: May 2020

Background

Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PNENs) are increasingly prevalent with modern imaging, and surgical excision remains mainstay of treatment. This study aims to perform a propensity‐score‐matched (PSM) comparison of perioperative and oncologic outcomes following minimally invasive pancreatectomy (MIP) versus open pancreatectomy (OP) for PNEN.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent curative‐intent surgery for PNEN at Singapore General Hospital from 1997 to 2018. A 1:1 PSM was performed between MIP and OP, after which both groups were balanced for baseline variables.

Results

We studied 134 patients who underwent surgery (36 MIP and 98 OP) for PNEN. Propensity‐score‐matched comparison between 35 MIP and 35 OP patients revealed that the MIP group had a longer operating time (MD = 75.0, 95% CI 15.2 to 134.8, P = 0.015), lower intraoperative blood loss (MD = − 400.0, 95% CI − 630.5 to − 169.5, P = 0.001), shorter median postoperative stay (MD = − 1.0, 95% CI − 1.9 to − 0.1, P = 0.029) and shorter median time to diet (MD = − 1.0, 95% CI − 1.9 to − 0.1, P = 0.039). There were no differences between both groups for short‐term adverse outcomes and oncologic clearance. Overall survival (HR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.28 to 2.51, P = 0.761) and disease‐free survival (HR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.20 to 1.64, P = 0.296) were comparable.

Conclusion

MIP is a safe and feasible approach for PNEN and is associated with a lower intraoperative blood loss, decreased postoperative stay and time to oral intake, at the expense of a longer operative time compared to OP.
Cloacal Gram-Negative Microbiota in Free-Living Grass Snake Natrix natrix from Poland
Authors: Pawlak Aleksandra , Morka Katarzyna , Bury Stanisław , Antoniewicz Zuzanna , Wzorek Anna , Cieniuch Gabriela , Korzeniowska-Kowal Agnieszka , Cichoń Mariusz , Bugla-Płoskońska Gabriela
Published: May 2020

Reptiles appear to be an important vector for Gram-negative pathogens, therefore, they are epidemiologically relevant. However, the composition of reptilian microbiota has been poorly recognized so far. The majority of studies concern exotic reptiles as asymptomatic carriers of Salmonella serovars. Studies of other intestinal bacteria of reptiles are rare. Only recently, the microbiota of free-living European reptiles have been investigated, however, on the basis of small samples, mainly in protected areas. Here, we aim to investigate cloacal Gram-negative microbiota of free-living Natrix natrix. Snakes (N = 45) used in the study were collected in Kraków (Poland) and its vicinity. Nineteen species of Gram-negative bacteria were isolated. The most common species were: Aeromonas hydrophila, Morganella morganii, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella spp. The bacteria prevalent in N. natrix cloacal swabs are likely to represent the natural intestinal Gram-negative microbiota of the examined snakes. Importantly, the identified bacteria are pathogenic to humans, which clearly highlights the epidemiological potential of free-living N. natrix. The risk of infection is high for immunocompromised humans, children (under 5 years old), elderly persons, and pregnant women. Our study provides the largest dataset on intestinal Gram-negative microbiota of wild snakes. The presence of multiple human pathogens determined by us calls for the necessity of further studies on reptile-transmitted bacteria in anthropogenic environments.
Does site elevation determine the start and intensity of human impact? Pollen evidence from southern Germany
Authors: Rösch Manfred , Stojakowits Philipp , Friedmann Arne
Published: May 2020

We investigated lake sediments from Großer Ursee, Landkreis Ravensburg, Allgäu, Baden-Württemberg, to explore whether human activity was delayed and less intense at higher sites compared to those in the adjacent lower area around Bodensee (Lake Constance). A 11.1 m high resolution pollen profile from the centre of the lake was analysed, which covers the late Würm and complete Holocene sequence, providing a continuous pollen record of 1,092 samples. Human and climate induced vegetation and landscape change is discussed. The history of human impact indicated in this profile at around 700 m in the western Allgäu, with a precipitation above 1,000 mm/year and with a less favourable climate is compared with human impact in adjacent lower landscapes, with a more favourable climate for agriculture such as the Bodensee region. Since the Neolithic period, differences in vegetation development between the regions were mainly caused by a varying intensity of human impact which itself was strongly influenced by climatic differences. In the lowlands with a warm and dry climate, human impact started earlier and was stronger than in less favourable areas. Finally, the regular occurrence of Trapa natans at Großer Ursee, much more frequent there than in the adjacent warmer landscape to the west, is discussed in terms of various ecological factors.
Die Kopplung elektrotechnischer und strukturdynamischer Domänen zu einem NVH-Systemmodell eines elektrischen Antriebsstrangs
Authors: Jaeger Markus , Drichel Pascal , Schröder Michael , Berroth Joerg , Jacobs Georg , Hameyer Kay
Published: May 2020

In dieser Arbeit wird am Beispiel eines Antriebsstrangs eines Serien-Elektrofahrzeugs eine Methode vorgestellt, welche das elektrotechnische mit dem strukturdynamischen Teilsystem rückwirkungsbehaftet recheneffizient verbindet. Das transiente, nichtlineare Systemmodell berücksichtigt auf elektrotechnischer Seite Regelung, Leistungselektronik und das Verhalten der elektrischen Maschine unter dem Einfluss von Fertigungsabweichungen und strukturdynamischen Rückwirkungen wie dynamischer Exzentrizität, Torsion und Biegung des Rotors. Auf strukturdynamischer Seite ist der vollständige Antriebsstrang inklusive. Wellensystem, Getriebe und Gehäuse in einer elastischen Mehrkörpersimulation zur Berechnung transienter Vorgänge im Zeitbereich abgebildet. Die Methode erlaubt die Berechnung des nichtlinearen, akustischen Systemverhaltens und wird anhand von Prüfstandsmessungen validiert. Die Möglichkeiten, durch Variantenrechnungen die Sensitivitäten des NVH-Verhaltens zu untersuchen oder Komponenten im Auslegungsprozess auf Systemebene zu optimieren, werden aufgezeigt.
Enabling Adaptive Mesh Refinement for Spectral-Element Simulations of Turbulence Around Wing Sections
Authors: Tanarro Álvaro , Mallor Fermín , Offermans Nicolas , Peplinski Adam , Vinuesa Ricardo , Schlatter Philipp
Published: May 2020

The implementation of adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) in the spectral-element method code Nek5000 is used for the first time on the well-resolved large-eddy simulation of the turbulent flow over wings. In particular, the flow over a NACA4412 profile with a $$5^\circ$$

5
∘

angle of attack at chord-based Reynolds number $${\text {Re}}_c=200{,}000$$

Re
c

=
200
,
000

is analyzed in the present work and compared with a previous conformal simulation used as baseline. The mesh, starting from a coarse resolution, is progressively and automatically refined by means of AMR, which allows for high resolution near the wall and wake whereas significantly larger elements are used in the far-field. The resulting mesh, which remains unchanged in the production runs (i.e. AMR is used to create the final mesh, which is then fixed), is of higher resolution than those in previous conformal cases, and it allows for the use of larger computational domains, avoiding the use of precursor RANS simulations to determine the boundary conditions. This is achieved with, approximately, 2 times lower total number of grid points if the same spanwise length is used. Turbulence statistics obtained in the AMR simulation show good agreement with the ones obtained with the conformal mesh, and the pressure-coefficient distribution along the wing surface matches pressure-scan experimental data obtained in the MTL wind tunnel at KTH. The use of AMR is therefore expected to enable the simulation of high-Reynolds numbers turbulent flows over complex geometries (such as wings), thus allowing the study of pressure-gradient effects at high Reynolds numbers relevant for practical applications.
Leveraging public harvest to reduce invasive hybridization in Yellowstone National Park: field identification and harvest of cutthroat × rainbow trout hybrids
Authors: Heim Kurt C. , McMahon Thomas E. , Ertel Brian D. , Koel Todd M.
Published: May 2020

Leveraging public harvest can be a cost-effective invasive species management tool, but target taxa must be correctly identified and removed at rates that achieve biological objectives. We explored the potential role of recreational anglers to curtail expanding hybridization between invasive rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss; RT) and native Yellowstone cutthroat trout (O. clarkii bouvieri; YCT) in the Lamar River watershed in Yellowstone National Park. We sought to (1) develop a hybrid identification key that could be used by anglers and (2) estimate angler participation, catch, and potential exploitation rates. We assessed seven morphological features of trout in the field (n = 251, 15 locations) and collected fin clips to estimate RT ancestry proportion using genetic analysis. An identification key was built using recursive partitioning to objectively distinguish YCT from RT and hybrids. A single-choice dichotomous key (white pelvic fin tip present/absent) correctly classified 93% of fish as native (YCT) or containing RT ancestry (RT or hybrid). Success increased to 97% when a second criterion was added (head spot count ≥ 6). Using angler surveys (2013–2017), we estimated that 10,000 anglers catch 50,000 trout annually. In a popular road-accessible area, most trout are probably caught and released ~ 5 times each year. The combination of high angler participation, substantial annual catch, and an accurate and easy to use identification method indicate that leveraging public harvest is a promising management tool. Invasive hybridization is a global conservation issue threatening many native taxa; this case study highlights some factors for resource managers to consider prior to implementing public harvest regulations and the benefits of standardized keys to distinguish hybrids in the field.
Grain yield and stability of tropical maize hybrids developed from elite cultivars in contrasting environments under a rainforest agro-ecology
Authors: Eze C. E. , Akinwale R. O. , Michel S. , Bürstmayr H.
Published: May 2020

In the maize producing regions of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), compounding effects of genotype-by-environment interaction have necessitated breeding maize for outstanding performance and stability across varying environments. This study was conducted to assess the performance and stability of late-maturing cultivars and their respective hybrids evaluated under contrasting environments in the tropical rainforest region. We evaluated 108 genotypes in field trials under three different growing conditions in 2018 involving 14 open-pollinated parents and their hybrids derived from a diallel mating design. The genotypes were evaluated under field conditions using 9 × 12 alpha lattice design with three replications in six environments. The genotypes were divided into three groups, containing either the parents, hybrids or checks, for estimating the stability variance and grain yield. The difference between the lowest and highest yielding environment was 3.9 t ha−1, while the repeatability of the grain yield trials ranged from 39 to 80%. The average grain yield of the hybrids (2.33 t ha−1) was significantly higher than that of the parents (2.19 t ha−1) and the check varieties (2.03 t ha−1). The hybrids were more stable than both the parents and the checks. They also showed a higher stability against a common group of the parents and checks. The results of this study suggest that high yielding and stable population hybrids can be utilized in breeding programmes aiming to provide improved varieties for the large number of rural maize farmers in the SSA zone, who often lack access or the capacity to purchase commercial hybrids.
A Learning Analytics Approach to Address Heterogeneity in the Classroom: The Teachers’ Diagnostic Support System
Authors: Kärner Tobias , Warwas Julia , Schumann Stephan
Published: May 2020

Addressing heterogeneity in the classroom by adapting instruction to learners’ needs challenges teachers in their daily work. To provide adaptive instruction in the most flexible way, teachers face the problem of assessing students’ individual characteristics (learning prerequisites and learning needs) and situational states (learning experiences and learning progress) along with the characteristics of the learning environment. To support teachers in gathering and processing such multidimensional diagnostic information in class, we have developed a client–server based software prototype running on mobile devices: the Teachers’ Diagnostic Support System. Following the generic educational design research process, we (1) delineate theoretical implications for system requirements drawn from a literature review, (2) describe the systems’ design and technical development and (3) report the results of a usability study. We broaden our theoretical understanding of heterogeneity within school classes and establish a basis for technological interventions to improve diagnostic accuracy in adaptive instructional strategies.
Failure That Matters: Two Abortive Agreements and the Dynamics of Orthodox Jewish Politics on the Eve of World War II
Authors: Mahla Daniel
Published: May 2020

Agudat Yisrael and the religious Zionist movement (Mizrachi) were the two largest and most influential political organizations of Orthodox Jewry during the first half of the twentieth century. Competing for the support of observant Jews, the two movements were enmeshed in bitter ideological and political struggles. Nevertheless, due to the dire situation of European and Palestine Jewries their political representatives met during the late 1930s in Paris and London in order to negotiate possible avenues of cooperation. While these endeavors were unprecedented in the history of the two movements, they eventually failed. Due to their failure, earlier scholarship has dismissed these efforts as a “lost opportunity” for Orthodox Judaism and blamed Agudists for their unwillingness to overcome long-standing rivalries and ideological reservations. This article, in contrast, perceives the negotiations of 1938–1939 as an important window into intra-Orthodox dynamics during the first half of the twentieth century. Rather than stressing the difficulties of overcoming ideological barriers and the failures of non-Zionist Orthodoxy to adapt to the challenges of the modern age, the article argues that it was a careful weighing of political gains and risks on both sides that dominated the negotiations and determined their outcome. The insights gained from this close analysis of intra-Orthodox relations are of significance beyond the question of party politics, as the two rivals were not only influential political movements, but ultimately came to shape the social, cultural, and political realities of traditionalist Jewry in the State of Israel during its early years and well beyond.
A comparative look at structural variation among RC–LH1 ‘Core’ complexes present in anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria
Authors: Gardiner Alastair T. , Nguyen-Phan Tu C. , Cogdell Richard J.
Published: May 2020

All purple photosynthetic bacteria contain RC–LH1 ‘Core’ complexes. The structure of this complex from Rhodobacter sphaeroides, Rhodopseudomonas palustris and Thermochromatium tepidum has been solved using X-ray crystallography. Recently, the application of single particle cryo-EM has revolutionised structural biology and the structure of the RC–LH1 ‘Core’ complex from Blastochloris viridis has been solved using this technique, as well as the complex from the non-purple Chloroflexi species, Roseiflexus castenholzii. It is apparent that these structures are variations on a theme, although with a greater degree of structural diversity within them than previously thought. Furthermore, it has recently been discovered that the only phototrophic representative from the phylum Gemmatimonadetes, Gemmatimonas phototrophica, also contains a RC–LH1 ‘Core’ complex. At present only a low-resolution EM-projection map exists but this shows that the Gemmatimonas phototrophica complex contains a double LH1 ring. This short review compares these different structures and looks at the functional significance of these variations from two main standpoints: energy transfer and quinone exchange.
Contrasting Monetary and Multidimensional Poverty Measures in a Low-Income Sub-Saharan African Country
Authors: Salecker Lukas , Ahmadov Anar K. , Karimli Leyla
Published: May 2020

Despite significant progress in poverty measurement, few studies have undertaken an in-depth comparison of monetary and multidimensional measures in the context of low-income countries and fewer still in Sub-Saharan Africa. Yet the differences can be particularly consequential in these settings. We address this gap by applying a distinct analytical strategy to the case of Rwanda. Using data from two waves of the Rwandan Integrated Household Living Conditions Survey, we combine comparing poverty rates cross-sectionally and over time, examining the overlaps and differences in the two measures, investigating poverty rates within population sub-groups, and estimating several statistical models to assess the differences between the two measures in identifying poverty risk factors. We find that using a monetary measure alone does not capture high incidence of multidimensional poverty in both waves, that it is possible to be multidimensional poor without being monetary poor, and that using a monetary measure alone overlooks significant change in multidimensional poverty over time. The two measures also differ in which poverty risk factors they put emphasis on. Relying only on monetary measures in low-income sub-Saharan Africa can send inaccurate signals to policymakers regarding the optimal design of social policies as well as monitoring their effectiveness.
A New Cooling Strategy in Curved Continuous Casting Process of Vanadium Micro-alloyed YQ450NQR1 Steel Bloom Combining Experimental and Modeling Approach
Authors: Dou Kun , Liu Qing
Published: May 2020

In the continuous casting process of steel, the bloom surfaces would experience intensive cooling from the water-cooled copper mold to secondary cooling water spray. If the cooling process is not controlled properly, hot ductility of the bloom surface microstructures would deteriorate, and bloom surface cracks would form easily under straightening deformation in a curved caster. Considering the above facts, the cooling scheme for the continuous casting of YQ450NQR1 steel bloom, a kind of vanadium-containing micro-alloyed steel, is studied with both experimental investigation and mathematical modeling in this work. The authors first investigate the hot ductility of bloom surface microstructures at various cooling rates using a Gleeble thermal simulator. Then, the precipitation of V(C, N) particles and its influence on ferrite formation during continuous cooling are studied and characterized using High-Temperature Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy. Based on these, the preferred cooling rate for surface microstructures at the straightening position in the caster is obtained. To further reduce the solute macro-segregation through enlargement of the equiaxed crystal zone, a cellular automaton-finite element model is used to calculate heat transfer and solidification structure evolution during the continuous casting process. After calibration with industrial trials, the model is utilized to determine the critical position for columnar to equiaxed transition and to adjust the pouring temperature for the melt. Combining the above research, a new cooling strategy for YQ450NQR1 steel bloom is obtained, which can improve crack resistance of bloom surface microstructures and reduce solute macro-segregation at the same time.
Identity Management and Community Belonging: The Coming Out Careers of Young Disabled LGBT+ Persons
Authors: Toft Alex
Published: May 2020

Coming out is best viewed in terms of a career with no discernible endpoint. Popular discourse and stage-based models which emphasise a linear phased approach tend not to accurately represent contemporary coming out experiences. Using data from interviews, focus groups and interactive workshops, this article explores the perceptions and strategies towards coming out by young disabled LGBT+ people. I suggest that viewing coming out careers as an identity management technique helps to shed light upon the relationship between intersecting identities and helps to examine the negotiations taking place, whilst teasing out how such identities impact and inform one another against the backdrop of misunderstanding. The stories of the participants also show that the framing of coming out as an imperative to living honestly and authentically was not a common experience. However, coming out to feel a sense of belonging within communities remains central to the perceived benefits. Coming out for the participants reveals tensions between their identities based on ableism and heteronormativity that led them to reconsider the viability and benefits of coming out. However, the participants revealed a challenging two-way relationship between the LGBT+ community and them as disabled people.
New technologies. Political, legal, economic and factual impact in Germany
Authors: Armbrüster Christian
Published: May 2020

New technologies influence the insurance sector in Germany in many ways. This is also reflected in changes in the legal framework. For example, the German legislator has introduced new rules for highly and fully automated driving. In the future, autonomous driving will raise the question of the effects of the fact that there is no longer a driver on liability and insurance. The article shows that the German system of owner (“holder” or “keeper”) liability in combination with compulsory liability insurance also offers a convincing solution for this challenge, especially with regard to an effective protection of traffic victims. Another field is cyber risks. They have led to the development of a new insurance cover. Digitalisation presents new opportunities for the contract conclusion process and the regulation of insurance claims, but there are also some legal challenges to be addressed. Last but not least, the use of robots and nanotechnology is leading to new types of risks and to modified coverage concepts. This article deals with current developments in Germany.
Improvement in quality of life and angina pectoris: 1-year follow-up of patients with refractory angina pectoris and spinal cord stimulation
Authors: Vervaat F. E. , van der Gaag A. , van Suijlekom H. , Botman C. J. , Teeuwen K. , Wijnbergen I.
Published: May 2020

Aims

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a treatment for patients with refractory angina pectoris (RAP) who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy and without revascularisation options. Previous studies have shown that SCS improves the quality of life in this patient group and reduces the severity of the angina pectoris. The aim of this prospective, single-arm observational study is to show this effect in a single-centre cohort using a multidisciplinary team approach to the selection process, with a follow-up period of 1 year.

Methods and results

Between July 2010 and March 2017, 87 patients with RAP referred to our centre received SCS. The Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) and RAND 36-Item Health Survey (RAND-36) were completed at baseline, prior to implantation, and 1 year post-implantation. After 1 year of follow-up there was a statistically significant decrease in the frequency of angina pectoris attacks from more than 4 times a day to 1–2 times a week (p < 0.001). The SAQ showed statistically significant improvement in four of the five dimensions: physical limitation (p < 0.001), angina frequency (p < 0.001), angina stability (p < 0.001) and quality of life (p < 0.001). The RAND-36 showed statistically significant improvement in all nine dimensions: physical functioning (p = 0.001), role/physical (p < 0.001), social functioning (p = 0.03), role/emotional (p < 0.05), bodily pain (p < 0.001), general health (p < 0.001), vitality (p < 0.001), mental health (p = 0.02) and health change (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study showed a significant improvement in quality of life and reduction of angina pectoris severity after 1 year of follow-up in patients treated with SCS for RAP.
Case presentation methods: a randomized controlled trial of the one-minute preceptor versus SNAPPS in a controlled setting
Authors: Fagundes Eleonora D. T. , Ibiapina Cássio C. , Alvim Cristina G. , Fernandes Rachel A. F. , Carvalho-Filho Marco Antônio , Brand Paul L. P.
Published: May 2020

Introduction One-minute preceptor (OMP) and SNAPPS (a mnemonic for Summarize history and findings; Narrow the differential; Analyze the differential; Probe the preceptor about uncertainties; Plan management; and Select case-related issues for self-study) are educational techniques developed to promote learners’ expression of clinical reasoning during the case presentation in the workplace. The aim of this present study was to compare the content of the case presentation between the SNAPPS and the OMP methods.

Methods This was a randomized controlled trial comparing SNAPPS and OMP in 60 medical students at the beginning of their fifth year of medical school. After an introduction session, students presented and discussed two cases based on real patients and provided in written format. All case presentations were recorded and evaluated by two researchers. The assessed elements of the case presentations were divided into three subgroups related to expression of clinical reasoning, time and initiative to guide the presentation.

Results There were 30 participants in each group. There was no difference in the expression of clinical reasoning between OMP and SNAPPS groups (number of differential diagnoses, justification of most likely diagnosis and differential diagnosis, expression of comparing and contrasting hypotheses). However, students in the SNAPPS group expressed significantly more questions and uncertainties (p < 0.001), and more often took the initiative to present and justify the most likely diagnosis, differential diagnosis and management plan than students in the OMP group, both in simple and complex cases (all p values <0.001) without extending the length of the teaching session.
Prevalence of overweight and metabolic syndrome, and associated sociodemographic factors among adult Ecuadorian populations: the ENSANUT-ECU study
Authors: Pérez-Galarza J. , Baldeón L. , Franco O. H. , Muka T. , Drexhage H. A. , Voortman T. , Freire W. B.
Published: May 2020

Background

Obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are key risk factors for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Little information exists on the prevalence of obesity and MetS in Latin America and specifically in Ecuador. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of overweight, obesity, and MetS among adults in Ecuador.

Methods

We analyzed data from a nation-wide population-based survey in Ecuador (ENSANUT-ECU) among 10,318 participants (3684 men, 6634 women; age range: 18–59 years) conducted in 2012. Data related to residential location (urban versus rural), altitude (< 500, 500–1500 or > 1500 m above sea level (MASL)), region (highland, coast, amazon, or Galápagos), and socioeconomic status were collected. BMI, waist circumference, blood lipids, glucose, and blood pressure were measured by trained fieldworkers following standardized procedures.

Results

The age-standardized prevalence of overweight was 39.5%; 22.3% was obese; and 31.2% had MetS. The prevalence of obesity, low HDL-cholesterol, and abdominal obesity were higher in women than in men, whereas men had a higher prevalence of hypertension (p < 0.05). Sex differences were not observed regarding the prevalence of combined MetS. Prevalence of both obesity and MetS was higher in urban areas, at low altitude regions (coast and Galapagos), and at high socioeconomic status (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Prevalence of obesity and MetS in Ecuador are high. There are important demographic differences in the prevalence of MetS between Ecuadorian subpopulations that requires targeted research and prevention efforts, to hold and reduce the current public health problem of metabolic disorders.
Berufliche Weiterbildungsbeteiligung von Älteren im europäischen Vergleich – Welche Rolle spielen Institutionen?
Authors: Philipps Veronika
Published: May 2020

Personen in der späten Erwerbsphase sind in Europa selten in berufliche Weiterbildung eingebunden. Der Beitrag betrachtet Länderdifferenzen in der Weiterbildungsteilnahme Älterer aus institutionentheoretischer Perspektive und berücksichtigt dabei, dass Institutionen in Verbindung miteinander funktionieren. Daher werden Zusammenhänge zwischen institutionellen Konfigurationen des Arbeitsmarktes und Bildungssystems für die relativen Weiterbildungsnachteile Älterer in 26 europäischen Ländern untersucht und es wird aufgezeigt, dass institutionelle Konfigurationen eine hohe Bedeutung für die Erklärung von Weiterbildungsdisparitäten besitzen. Für geringe Weiterbildungsnachteile Älterer sind insbesondere das Vorhandensein weitreichender staatlicher und betrieblicher Weiterbildungsstrukturen sowie ein duales Berufsausbildungssystem bedeutsam.