bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Counter Beam Tunnel Lights for CIE 88 : 2004 Regulation in Threshold Zone
Authors: Chen Ming-Jui , Le Hien-Thanh , Le Lanh-Thanh , Tseng Wei-Hsiung , Lee Wei-Yang , Chen Si-Yuan , Chen Sheng-Yen , Liao Hsing-Yuan , Li Yung-Cheng , Lee Hsiao-Yi
Published: March 2020

To enhance driving safety, a counter beam light is proposed to meet CIE (International Commission on Illumination) specifications for tunnel lighting. The proposed new counter beam light (CBL) acts as a qualified counter beam light to help tunnel road lighting meet the CIE 88 : 2004 regulation standard in the threshold zone in both simulation and in practice. Through appropriate arrangements of the counter beam light and conventional fluorescent lights on the tunnel ceiling, we demonstrate that road tunnel lighting meeting CIE 88 : 2004 standards can be accomplished. Based on LiteStar four-dimensional simulation, the source file created through the measurement of the proposed CBL prototype achieved an average road surface brightness of 121 cd/m2, which is greater than the minimum regulation level of 105 cd/m2, a brightness uniformity of 0.88 (minimum regulation level of 0.4), longitudinal brightness uniformity of 0.98 (minimum regulation level of 0.6), a glare factor of 4.41% (maximum level of 15%), and a contrast revealing coefficient of 1.08, which is above the 0.6 minimum level in the threshold zone.
GLIDE: A Game Theory and Data-Driven Mimicking Linkage Intrusion Detection for Edge Computing Networks
Authors: Li Qianmu , Hou Jun , Meng Shunmei , Long Huaqiu
Published: March 2020

The real-time and high-continuity requirements of the edge computing network gain more and more attention because of its active defence problem, that is, a data-driven complex problem. Due to the dual constraints of the hybrid feature of edge computing networks and the uncertainty of new attack features, implementing active defence measures such as detection, evasion, trap, and control is essential for the security protection of edge computing networks with high real-time and continuity requirements. The basic idea of safe active defence is to make the defence gain more significant than the attack loss. To encounter the new attacks with uncertain features introduced by the ubiquitous transmission network in the edge computing network, this paper investigates the attack behaviour and presents an attack-defence mechanism based on game theory. Based on the idea of dynamic intrusion detection, we utilize the game theory in the field of edge computing network and suggest a data-driven mimicry intrusion detection game model-based technique called GLIDE. The game income of participants and utility computing methods under different deployment strategies are analysed in detail. According to the proof analysis of the Nash equilibrium condition in the model, the contradictory dynamic game relationship is described. Therefore, the optimal deployment strategy of the multiredundancy edge computing terminal intrusion detection service in the edge computing network is obtained by solving the game balance point. The detection probability of the edge computing network for network attacks is improved, and the cost of intrusion detection of the edge computing network is reduced.
Establishment of a Colony of Phlebotomus argentipes under Laboratory Conditions and Morphometric Variation between Wild-Caught and Laboratory-Reared Populations
Authors: Wijerathna Tharaka , Gunathilaka Nayana , Gunawardena Kithsiri
Published: March 2020

The field-based studies on sand flies are not adequate to uncover information required for the control of the leishmaniasis through reduction of vector populations. Therefore, establishment and maintenance of laboratory colonies of sand flies is an essential step in leishmaniasis research. In the current study, a colony of P. argentipes was established from wild-caught sand flies following standard procedures from the published literature. Morphological measurements of laboratory-reared and wild-caught individual sand flies were compared to assess the difference between two groups. The colony was successfully established under confined laboratory conditions. The comparison of morphometric parameters revealed that the laboratory-reared sand flies are significantly larger than those caught from wild, suggesting a possibility of increased fitness of sand flies under favorable environmental conditions which may cause higher prevalence in the disease. The current study reports the first successful attempt in colonizing sand flies under laboratory conditions. However, the colony data suggest that the conditions extracted from the published literature need to be optimized to suit local settings in order to achieve maximum population sizes within the available amount of resources.
Practice and Barriers toward Breast Self-Examination among Palestinian Women in Gaza City, Palestine
Authors: Baloushah Suha , Salisu Waliu Jawula , Elsous Aymen , Muhammad Ibrahim Maryam , Jouda Fadia , Elmodallal Hanan , Behboodi Moghadam Zahra
Published: March 2020

Breast self-examination (BSE) is one of many first-line screening practices aimed at early detection and prevention of fatal outcomes of breast cancer. The present study aimed to identify Palestinian women’s practices, awareness, and barriers to BSE. Using descriptive-analytical methods, a previously validated questionnaire was administered to a conveniently selected sample of women. The study was conducted among women who visited primary health clinics (PHCs) in Gaza City. A total of 390 participants who met the selection criteria answered the self-administered questionnaires. We used SPSS version 24.0 to analyze the data. The findings suggest that the practice of BSE among women in Gaza is low, with only 40% of the study participants reporting that they never practiced BSE before, even though 76.7% reported that they were aware of BSE. In general, the main barriers to BSE practices were that participants had wrong perceptions and lacked knowledge about BSE. Others also reported fear of detecting breast cancer as a barrier. The practice of BSE among Palestinian women in the Gaza Strip is low and marred with trivial issues as barriers that could be eliminated with dedicated and extensive educational campaigns in the area.
Thrombophilic Risk of Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A, MTHFR, and Calreticulin Mutations in Essential Thrombocythemia Egyptian Patients
Authors: El-Ghonemy Mohamed S. , El Sharawy Solafa , Fahmi Maryan Waheeb , El-Ashwah Shaimaa , Denewer May , El-Baiomy MA
Published: March 2020

Objectives. Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is one of the myeloproliferative neoplasms characterized by a sustained elevation of platelet numbers with a tendency for thrombosis and hemorrhage. The aim of this work is to establish the relation between calreticulin, factor V Leiden, prothrombin G20210A, and MTHFR mutations in ET patients and the thrombotic risk of these patients. Methods. This study was carried out on 120 ET patients and 40 apparently healthy individuals as a control group. Results. There were increases in WBCs, PLT counts, PT, fibrinogen concentration factor V Leiden, and MTHFR mutation in ET patients as compared to the control group (P<0.05). Also, there were increases in WBCs, PLT counts, and hematocrit value in thrombosed ET patients as compared to the nonthrombosed ones (P<0.05). On the contrary, there was no significantly statistical difference in ET patients with JAK2 V617F positive mutation versus the JAK2 negative group (P>0.05) and in patients with cardiovascular risk factors versus patients with noncardiovascular risk factors (P>0.05). ET patients with factor V Leiden, prothrombin gene, and CALR mutations were more prone to thrombosis (odds ratio 5.6, 5.7 and 4.7, respectively). On the contrary, JAk2V 617F and MTHFR mutations have no effect on the thrombotic state of those patients. Conclusion. There is a significant increase risk of thrombosis in ET patients with CALR mutation, thrombophilic mutations, as well as factor V Leiden and prothrombin gene mutation with a risk of developing leukemic transformation.
Nonlinear Dynamics of a Power-Split Transmission Unit with a Planetary Gear Train and Selectable One-Way Clutches
Authors: Jia Zhizhou , Li Pingkang
Published: March 2020

A Planetary Gear Train (PGT) can be used in series-parallel transmission to redistribute powers. Selectable one-way clutches (SOWCs), compared with traditional friction clutches, can simplify controls and diversify patterns especially for hybrid transmissions. In this paper, a nonlinear torsional model of a power-split PGT coupled with three SOWCs is proposed. Piecewise nonlinearities of SOWCs as well as clearance, time-varying mesh stiffness, and synthetic transmission error of the PGT are considered. With a specified group of comprehensive evaluation indices, influences of piecewise nonlinearities of SOWCs are explored. Simulation results show that the piecewise nonlinearities of SOWCs can diminish collision range and reduce resonances of the PGT. Further research studies on parameter configurations of each SOWC reveal that of the three SOWCs, stiffness and radius of the SOWC connected to the sun gear of the PGT are dominant factors. Large stiffness and effective radius of the SOWC render the PGT fall into chaos on lower meshing frequencies; however, enormous impact vibrations occur to the SOWC if it gets too soft. Additionally, the increase of the damping ratio of the SOWC connected to sun gear can distinctly reduce the vibration and maximum dynamic load of the system on the entire working range.
Degradation Pattern of Textile Effluent by Using Bio and Sono Chemical Reactor
Authors: Al-Sakkaf Basem Mohammed , Nasreen Sadia , Ejaz Naeem
Published: March 2020

The research study was conducted to design the ultrasonic-assisted electrochemical reactor and the bioreactor/filter to evaluate the potential applicability of biological trickling filter system and to compare the efficiency of two reactors such as SER and TF for the treatment of textile industry effluents. Also the study to design Sonoelectrolytic process for wastewater treatment of textile industry containing strong color, high temperature, suspended particles and dissolved solid particles has been conducted. Effect to environment and health is caused by oxygen demand (BOD), high chemical oxygen demand (COD). The percentage removal efficiency for wastewater treatment of textile industry by using sonoelectrolytic reactor (SER) was found to be higher than 95% at temperature of 25°C and a pH value of 8.9, while for trickling filter (TF), having adsorbent as a filter medium, efficiency was found to be 95%, and optimum conditions obtained were applied for the treatment of different dye samples. Based on experimental outcomes, it is determined that treatment through SER is done faster than trickling filter because in TF the adsorbent capacity decreases with time and is a time-consuming process, but the chance of deposition on electrodes also increases in SER, so both these processes can yield better results if these problems are eliminated.
A Novel Adaptive Active Disturbance Rejection Control Strategy to Improve the Stability and Robustness for a Wind Turbine Using a Doubly Fed Induction Generator
Authors: Laghridat Hammadi , Essadki Ahmed , Annoukoubi Maha , Nasser Tamou
Published: March 2020

A novel and robust active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) strategy for variable speed wind turbine systems using a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) is presented in this paper. The DFIG is directly connected to the main utility grid by stator, and its rotor is connected through a back-to-back three phase power converter (AC/DC/AC). Due to the acoustic nature of wind and to ensure capturing maximum energy, a control strategy to extract the available maximum power from the wind turbine by using a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is presented. Moreover, a pitch actuator system is used to control the blades’ pitch angle of the wind turbine in order to not exceed the wind turbine rated power value in case of strong wind speeds. Furthermore, the rotor-side converter is used to control the active and reactive powers generated by the DFIG. However, the grid-side converter is used to control the currents injected into the utility grid as well as to regulate the DC-link voltage. This paper aims to study and develop two control strategies for wind turbine system control: classical control by proportional integral (PI) and the proposed linear active disturbance rejection control (LADRC). The main purpose here is to compare and evaluate the dynamical performances and sensitivity of these controllers to the DFIG parameter variation. Therefore, a series of simulations were carried out in the MATLAB/Simulink environment, and the obtained results have shown the effectiveness of the proposed strategy in terms of efficiency, rapidity, and robustness to internal and external disturbances.
Biophysical and Immunological Characterization and In Vivo Pharmacokinetics and Toxicology in Nonhuman Primates of the Anti-PD-1 Antibody Pembrolizumab
Authors: Hutchins Beth , Starling Gary C. , McCoy Mark A. , Herzyk Danuta , Poulet Frederique M. , Dulos John , Liu Liming , Kang Soonmo Peter , Fayadat-Dilman Laurence , Hsieh Mark , Andrews Christine L. , Ayanoglu Gulesi , Cullen Constance , Malefyt Rene de Waal , Kastelein Robert A. , Saux Sabine Le , Lee Julie , Li Sophie , Malashock Dan , Sadekova Svetlana , Soder George , van Eenennaam Hans , Willingham Aarron , Yu Ying , Streuli Michel , Carven Gregory J. , van Elsas Andrea
Published: March 2020

The programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) pathway represents a major immune checkpoint, which may be engaged by cells in the tumor microenvironment to overcome active T-cell immune surveillance. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda®, MK-3475) is a potent and highly selective humanized mAb of the IgG4/kappa isotype designed to directly block the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2. This blockade enhances the functional activity of T cells to facilitate tumor regression and ultimately immune rejection. Pembrolizumab binds to human and cynomolgus monkey PD-1 with picomolar affinity and blocks the binding of human and cynomolgus monkey PD-1 to PD-L1 and PD-L2 with comparable potency. Pembrolizumab binds both the C′D and FG loops of PD-1. Pembrolizumab overcomes human and cynomolgus monkey PD-L1–mediated immune suppression in T-cell cultures by enhancing IL2 production following staphylococcal enterotoxin B stimulation of healthy donor and cancer patient cells, and IFNγ production in human primary tumor histoculture. Ex vivo and in vitro studies with human and primate T cells show that pembrolizumab enhances antigen-specific T-cell IFNγ and IL2 production. Pembrolizumab does not mediate FcR or complement-driven effector function against PD-1–expressing cells. Pembrolizumab displays dose-dependent clearance and half-life in cynomolgus monkey pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic studies typical for human IgG4 antibodies. In nonhuman primate toxicology studies, no findings of toxicologic significance were observed. The preclinical data for pembrolizumab are consistent with the clinical anticancer activity and safety that has been demonstrated in human clinical trials.
Primordial Prevention of High Blood Pressure in Childhood
Authors: Falkner Bonita , Lurbe Empar
Published: March 2020

Hypertension is a condition with increased risk for subsequent adverse events, and treatment of hypertension is prescribed for primary prevention of adverse events. Primordial prevention is a concept that precedes primary prevention and focuses on risk factor prevention. Primordial prevention of hypertension consists of strategies to maintain blood pressure in a normal range and prevent development of elevated blood pressure or hypertension. Childhood is a period in which primordial prevention could be effective and if sustained throughout childhood could contribute to a healthier young adulthood. Targets for primordial prevention in childhood include preventing and reducing childhood obesity, achieving an optimal diet that includes avoiding excessive salt consumption, and removing barriers to physical activity and healthy sleep throughout childhood. Primordial prevention also includes the prenatal period wherein some maternal conditions and exposures are associated with higher blood pressure in child offspring.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell–Derived Extracellular Vesicles Induce Regulatory T Cells to Ameliorate Chronic Kidney Injury
Authors: Song Turun , Eirin Alfonso , Zhu Xiangyang , Zhao Yu , Krier James D. , Tang Hui , Jordan Kyra L. , Woollard John R. , Taner Timucin , Lerman Amir , Lerman Lilach O.
Published: March 2020

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) profoundly changes the contents of mesenchymal stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells–derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). The anti-inflammatory TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β) is selectively enriched in EVs from Lean but not from MetS pigs, but the functional impact of this endowment remains unknown. We hypothesized that Lean-EVs more effectively induce regulatory T cells in injured kidneys. Five groups of pigs (n=7 each) were studied after 16 weeks of diet-induced MetS and unilateral renal artery stenosis (RAS; MetS+RAS). Two groups of MetS+RAS were treated 4 weeks earlier with an intrarenal injection of either Lean-EVs or MetS-EVs. MetS+RAS had lower renal volume, renal blood flow, and glomerular filtration rate than MetS pigs. Compared with Lean-EVs, MetS-EVs were less effective in improving renal function and decreasing tubular injury and fibrosis in MetS+RAS. Lean-EVs upregulated TGF-β expression in stenotic kidney and increased regulatory T cells numbers more prominently. Furthermore, markedly upregulated anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages reduced proinflammatory M1 macrophages, and CD8
+
T cells were detected in stenotic kidneys treated with Lean-EVs compared with MetS-EVs, and renal vein levels of interleukin-1β were reduced. In vitro, coculture of Lean-EVs with activated T cells led to greater TGF-β-dependent regulatory T cells induction than did MetS-EVs. Therefore, the beneficial effects of mesenchymal stem cells–derived EVs on injured kidneys might be partly mediated by their content of TGF-β signaling components, which permitting increased Treg preponderance. Modulating EV cargo and transforming their functionality might be useful for renal repair.
Cardiovascular Disease Burden in Rural Africa: Does HIV and Antiretroviral Treatment Play a Role?
Authors: Vos Alinda G. , Barth Roos E. , Klipstein‐Grobusch Kerstin , Tempelman Hugo A. , Devillé Walter L. J. , Dodd Caitlin , Coutinho Roel A. , Grobbee Diederick E. ,   Ndlovu Research Consortium*
Published: March 2020

Background

HIV
is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) in high‐income countries. Little is known about the
CVD
burden in sub‐Saharan Africa, where 70% of the world's
HIV
‐positive population lives. This study aims to provide insight into the burden of
CVD
risk in a rural setting in sub‐Saharan Africa considering
HIV
infection and antiretroviral therapy (
ART
).

Methods and Results

A cross‐sectional analysis was conducted of the baseline of the Ndlovu Cohort study including
HIV
‐negative and
HIV
‐positive participants in rural South Africa between 2014 and 2017. Information was collected on demographics, socioeconomic status, and
CVD
risk factors. Carotid intima‐media thickness measurement was performed. The influence of
HIV
and
ART
on the burden of
CVD
was determined by comparing
HIV
‐positive participants who were
ART
naive on first‐line or second‐line
ART
with
HIV
‐negative participants. In total, 1927 participants were included, of whom 887 (46%) were HIV positive and 54% women. The median age was 38 years. Overall, 690 participants (79%) were on
ART
, with 613 (89%) on first‐line and 77 (11%) on second‐line therapy. Participants with
HIV
had lower values for most of the
CVD
risk factors but higher C‐reactive protein levels than
HIV
‐negative participants.
ART
‐naive,
HIV
‐positive participants had similar carotid intima‐media thickness compared with
HIV
‐negative participants but carotid intima‐media thickness was increased for participants on
ART
aged 30 years and older compared with
HIV
‐negative participants.

Conclusions

HIV
‐positive participants presented with a favorable
CVD
risk profile compared with
HIV
‐negative participants. However, carotid intima‐media thickness was increased in
HIV
‐positive participants on
ART
, indicating a higher burden of subclinical
CVD
for the
HIV
‐positive population.
Effect of Hemoglobin A1c Reduction or Weight Reduction on Blood Pressure in Glucagon‐Like Peptide‐1 Receptor Agonist and Sodium‐Glucose Cotransporter‐2 Inhibitor Treatment in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hu Mengdie , Cai Xiaoling , Yang Wenjia , Zhang Simin , Nie Lin , Ji Linong
Published: March 2020

Background

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (
GLP
‐1
RAs
) and sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (
SGLT
2is) have shown their beneficial effects on cardiovascular outcomes and multiple cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension. However, the mechanism of blood pressure (
BP
)–lowering effects of these agents has not been elucidated. This study aims to evaluate the effect of hemoglobin A1c reduction or body weight reduction with
GLP
‐1
RA
treatment and
SGLT
2i treatment on
BP
changes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods and Results

Studies were identified by a search of
MEDLINE
,
EMBASE
, and the Cochrane Central Register until June 2019. Meta‐regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between hemoglobin A1c reduction or body weight reduction and changes of
BP
. A total of 184 trials were included. Both
GLP
‐1
RA
and
SGLT
2i led to significant reductions in systolic
BP
(weighted mean difference, −2.856 and −4.331 mm Hg, respectively;
P
<0.001 for both) and diastolic
BP
(weighted mean difference, −0.898 and −2.279 mm Hg, respectively;
P
<0.001 for both). For both drug classes, hemoglobin A1c reduction was not independently associated with systolic
BP
reduction or diastolic
BP
reduction. In
GLP
‐1
RA
treatment, weight reduction was positively associated with systolic
BP
reduction and diastolic
BP
reduction (β=0.821 and β=0.287, respectively;
P
<0.001 for both). In
SGLT
2i treatment, weight loss was significantly associated with systolic
BP
reduction (β=0.820;
P
=0.001) but was not associated with diastolic
BP
reduction.

Conclusions

Treatment with
GLP
‐1
RA
and
SGLT
2i led to significant reductions in
BP
in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Weight reduction was significantly and independently associated with
BP
reductions in
GLP
‐1
RA
treatment and
SGLT
2i treatment.
The Tragedy of Small Power Politics: The Philippines in the South China Sea
Authors: Misalucha-Willoughby Charmaine , Medillo Robert Joseph
Published: March 2020

Given the reality of power asymmetries, we ask how small powers navigate their way in the international system. We look at the case of the Philippines because of its unique positioning in a region where two great powers compete for influence. We argue that when faced with a crisis, small powers implement an interim solution by internationalizing an issue to protect itself and garner sympathy and support from partners and allies. Using securitization theory, we demonstrate that the Philippines generally pursued the following strategies: improving its bilateral relations with China and reinvigorating its alliance with the United States, urging asean to take a more active and assertive role in the South China Sea (scs) disputes, and using formal arbitration to engage the international community. We find, however, that a lasting solution remains elusive because the country lacks consistent follow-through and policy convergence. Hence, the Philippine experience in securitizing the scs and its simultaneous inability to implement a lasting solution is symptomatic of the tragedy that small powers face.
Africa in the Global Economy: Between Integration and Marginalization?
Authors: Nigusie Alemu Asfaw , Ali Mohammed Seid
Published: March 2020

The main objective of this paper is to examine the position of Africa in the global division of labor in the era of globalization by deconstructing the assumptions, institutions and tools that buttress the North-South and the South-South relations in general and by using the aid, trade and investment regimes in particular. The paper argues that Africa has been integrated in the global economy at least since the middle of the 19th century with the colonization of the continent, albeit in a different form and intensity, but it has been located at the bottom of the hierarchy of the integration ladder playing a marginal role mainly on account of two reasons – firstly, its development destiny has been dictated from afar by its old (Global North, like Europeans) and also by the emerging (Global South, like China and India) external powers, as each of them tried to fulfill their national interests; and secondly, it has been following protectionist and unwelcoming economic policies internally. The net effect of the external pressure on Africa is nothing, but the emergence of an asymmetrical economic relationship between Africa and that of the old and the new powers. Accordingly, at present, the continent is suffering from the multiple byproducts of economic globalization like low prices for its primary products, infant manufacturing and industrialization, limited and constrained market access, huge debt burden, and economic and political conditionality.
Between Polite Economy and the Gift: Nineteenth-Century British Travelers and Persian Excess
Authors: Sarlati Niloofar
Published: March 2020

Nineteenth-century travelogues by British travelers to Persia commonly include warnings against “excessive” Persian politeness, casting it as flattery or deceit. While this pejorative representation of Persian cordiality is a token of British Orientalism, it also highlights the incompatible measures for pleasantries in Persia and Britain. This essay traces the competing economies of social courtesy in these two contexts: a desire for utmost calculability in the British market entailed a new conception of politeness, one more moderate and commercial; by contrast, Persian politeness operated through gift-giving and “extravagant” greetings and complimenting. While the former hinges on a “modern” conception of commerce, the latter pivots around the bargain entailed in gift-giving. (Mis)recognition and (mis)translation of Persian “excess” as the hypocrisy of the ancien régime in the travelogues, however, signpost a teleological fabrication of the past which urges a global circulation of the British notion of polite character.
Revision of the fish family Euclichthyidae (Pisces: Gadiformes) with the description of two new species from the Western Pacific
Authors: LAST PETER R. , POGONOSKI JOHN J.
Published: March 2020

Members of the benthopelagic fish family Euclichthyidae, also known as the Eucla cods, occur on the upper continental slopes off Australasia at 220–1040 m depths. Euclichthyids essentially differ from other gadiform fishes in a combination of two almost contiguous dorsal fins with the second much longer based, a deeply notched anal fin with its anterior portion greatly elevated, jugular pelvic fins consisting of 3 partly united filiform upper rays and 3 free filamentous lower rays, an asymmetrical caudal fin with 5 hypurals fused into two plates, and no chin barbel, or vomerine and palatine tooth patches. Additional characters attributed to the group by other published studies include: no horizontal diaphragm within the posterior chamber of the swim bladder, no swim bladder-auditory capsule connection, presence of a luminous organ, and cranial muscle adductor arcus palatini divided by a strong ligament running from the lateral ethmoid and palatine to the medial face of the hyomandibular. Widely considered to be monotypic since its erection in 1984, the group consists of a single genus and three allopatric species, Euclichthys polynemus McCulloch, 1926 (Western and southern Australia, New Zealand), and two new taxa, E. microdorsalis sp. nov. (northeastern Australia) and E. robertsi sp. nov. (eastern Australia and New Caledonia). Eucla cods are morphologically conservative with both new species superficially resembling the type species, E. polynemus. Euclichthys microdorsalis sp. nov. is the most anatomically and morphologically divergent member of the group in having a shorter first dorsal fin, longer snout, relatively small eye compared to its interorbital width, and fewer caudal-fin rays and primary rakers on the outer gill arch than its congeners. Euclichthys robersti sp. nov. differs from E. polynemus in being smaller with a more slender head, and having a smaller eye, longer anal-fin base and tail, smaller scales, fewer primary rakers on the outer gill arch, more elongate oval otoliths, and usually having a X and/or Y bone in the caudal skeleton (both absent in other Euclichthys). Little is known of their biology but available material suggest that early juveniles remain pelagic in the open ocean with adults benthopelagic near the sea floor. Diagnoses and a key are provided for the three species.
Redescription of four species of Camelobaetidius Demoulin, 1966 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae) from Central and North America
Authors: SIBAJA-ARAYA FABIÁN , ESQUIVEL CARLOS
Published: March 2020

Four species of Camelobaetidius (C. maidu, C. variabilis, C. kondratieffi, and C. shepardi) are redescribed and diagnosed based on paratype material and original descriptions. Some omissions and inaccurate information in the original descriptions are emended, and illustrations of all taxonomically important structures are provided. Diagnostic characters are improved for a better discrimination from other species across the distribution range of the genus, especially in Central and North America and differences in some important taxonomic characters between these paratypes and the original descriptions are stressed.
Application of Pre-Strained Steels in Empirical Correlation Between Small Punch Test and Uniaxial Tensile Test
Authors: Liu Gang , Guan Kai-Shu , Zhong Ji-Ru
Published: March 2020

In order to research the method of strength empirical correlation between conventional small punch test (SPT) and uniaxial tensile test, a series of austenitic stainless steel including pre-strained SUS304 have been tested in this study. The conventional SPT is conducted on a small
disc-shaped specimen whose edge is firmly gripped by a die, and the specimen is deformed by a punch. The method of empirical correlation between SPT and uniaxial tensile test is a direct way to obtain the mechanical properties of materials. Through establishing the strength empirical correlation,
it can achieve to calculate the strength of material by SPT which is nondestructive to equipments. However, the per-strained steels have never been tested in this method. This study is to fill that gap and to obtain the empirical correlation between SPT and uniaxial tensile test with pre-strained
steel. In this study, a series of austenitic stainless steel including SUS304 after different levels of pre-strain were tested successively by uniaxial tensile test and SPT. It is found that the tensile strength obtained from uniaxial tensile test increases with the increasing levels of pre-strain.
However, the maximum load obtained from prestrained SPT specimen does not increase with the increasing levels of pre-strain. It is contradictory to the linear relation between maximum load and tensile strength. According to the analysis of conventional discshaped SPT specimen, the directions
of maximum load obtained from SPT and tensile strength from tensile test are not uniform. It results in the non-linearity between the maximum load and the tensile strength with pre-strained steel, and it indicates the pre-strained steel cannot be applied to the conventional disc-shaped SPT
specimen. Furthermore, the prestrained steel is a typical kind of anisotropic material. Therefore, extending to anisotropic material, the conventional disc-shaped SPT specimen is not suitable for the method of strength empirical correlation.
Experimental Study on Improvement Mechanism of Silane Emulsion on Acid Rain Corrosion of Green Ecological Concrete
Authors: Hu Wei Xun , Li Yao Zhuang , Peng Hua
Published: March 2020

Concrete structure is vulnerable to acid rain corrosion, which affects the service life of the material, in the corrosive environment, and concrete structure will deteriorate because of the erosion of water/chloride ions. Therefore, waterproof treatment of concrete structure is needed
to improve the durability of the structure. In this study, the green ecological concrete is taken as the research object. The concrete is mixed with a certain amount of silane emulsion to reduce the probability of corrosion of concrete due to moisture and chloride ions, thereby prolonging
the service life of this kind of concrete. During the experiment, in order to further test the corrosion resistance of silane emulsion to this kind of concrete, different kinds of concrete were taken as test objects and divided into 3 test groups, namely, the original test group (ITE), the
non silane emulsion test group (TWSE) and the optimal ratio test group (OT-SE). It is proved by experiments that the best proportion of concrete mixed with silane emulsion is 0.32 of water binder ratio, 18% of coal powder mixing ratio, 37% of gravel mixing ratio and 0.23% of proportion of
silane emulsion. The above factors are applied to compressive strength test, and 30 days as test time, the compressive strength of concrete with fly ash is measured. In the experiment of anticorrosion, compared with the traditional concrete samples, the electrical flux of concrete mixed with
silane emulsion decreased by 28.7% in 8 h, that is, chloride ion permeability decreased significantly.
Workplace Compensation Practices and the Rise in Benefit Inequality
Authors: Kristal Tali , Cohen Yinon , Navot Edo
Published: March 2020

This article aims to explain why inequality in fringe benefits has grown faster than wage inequality over the past four decades. We depart from previous income inequality research by studying benefits in addition to wages, but also by focusing on workplaces as the main drivers of benefit determination. We advance the argument that benefits determination is more organizationally embedded than wages mainly because workplaces have greater ability and incentive to alter benefits. Consequently, workplace compensation practices, including type of employment relations, are more important for benefits than for wages. Longitudinal linked employer–job administrative data on wages and voluntary benefits costs from the Employer Costs for Employee Compensation (ECEC) allow us to test these arguments, as well as examine why benefit inequality has dramatically increased. Results from variance decomposition reveal that between- and within-establishment inequality is higher in benefits than in wages, indicating that workplaces affect benefits more than wages. Regression results show that, as expected, establishment-level pay-settings affect benefits more than wages, and the decline in labor unions along with the liberalization of employment practices partly account for why benefit inequality increased at more than twice the rate of wage inequality.
Anti-intellectualism and education reform
Authors: Neem Johann N.
Published: March 2020

It is a strange and sobering experience to read Hofstadter in our own anti-intellectual era. If anything, left-leaning intellectuals’ sense of alienation has increased since the 1990s. To challenge anti-intellectualism in American education, the liberal arts and sciences will need to be restored to their central place in the curriculum.
Why Americans love educational shortcuts: A conversation with Robert Hampel
Authors: Heller Rafael
Published: March 2020

Some Americans have always wanted their schools to provide a liberal education, giving students opportunities to read great books, study the academic disciplines, and expand their minds. But many others, perhaps most of us, have looked for ways to avoid the slow, hard work of academic learning. As the historian Robert Hampel explains, we tend to prefer educational shortcuts, from taking correspondence courses, to buying CliffsNotes, to trying to become well-read in just 15 minutes a day.
A response to constructive criticism of Social and Emotional Learning
Authors: Shriver Timothy P. , Weissberg Roger P.
Published: March 2020

Recent years have seen a rapid expansion of efforts to promote social and emotional learning (SEL) in the nation’s schools. As some observers have pointed out, though, the growth of the SEL movement poses some challenges. In particular, concerns have been raised about the need for clearer definitions of SEL, less hype, more attention to equity, and a more patient approach to gaining public support. Such constructive criticism is welcome, say two longtime leaders of the SEL movement. But it’s important to keep them in perspective and recognize the movement’s strengths, as well.
Source rock types, distribution and their hydrocarbon generative potential within the Paleogene Sokor-1 and LV formations in Termit Basin, Niger
Authors: Lai Hongfei , Li Meijun , Mao Fengjun , Liu Jiguo , Xiao Hong , Tang Youjun , Shi Shengbao
Published: March 2020

The Paleogene lacustrine mudstone is one of the most important sets of source rocks in Termit Basin, Niger. However, studies on the Paleogene source kitchen are scarce. In this study, the source rock types, spatial distribution and their hydrocarbon generative potential within the Paleogene Sokor-1 and LV formations are systematically evaluated. A total of two third-order sequences (SSQ1 and SSQ2, from the bottom to top) and six systems tracts were identified in the Sokor-1 Formation, while the LV Formation mainly comprises pure shale and is regarded as a compositive stratigraphic sequence with no need of subdivision. Six types of source rocks could be distinguished within the three depositional environments of the sequence stratigraphic framework: (1) deep lake mudstones and shale deposited in the lacustrine deep-water facies, (2) shallow lake mudstones and carbonaceous mudstones occurring in the shallow lake environment, and (3) deltaic-front mudstones and prodeltaic mudstones developed in the deltaic facies. Deep lake mudstones/shale, which mainly occurred in the SSQ1-TST (transgressive systems tract), SSQ2-TST and LV Formation, are considered organic-rich source rocks with oil-prone generative potential. The shallow lake mudstones and deltaic mudstones were predominantly distributed in the tectonic slope and marginal areas of the Agadem Block within the lowstand systems tract and high stand systems tract of the SSQ1 and SSQ2. Nevertheless, geochemical results indicated that the deltaic mudstones are good gas-prone source rocks but the shallow lake mudstones were classified as poor potential source rocks. The variance in organic matter accumulation and preservation conditions within different depositional facies and the fluctuation of relative lake level are the controlling factors for the occurrence and distribution of high-quality source rocks. The effective Paleogene source kitchen is limitedly distributed around the depocenter of the Dinga Depression within a small scale, and therefore exploration for oil and gas resources from the Paleogene source kitchen should focus on the eastern Dinga fault-step zone adjacent to the depocenter of the Dinga Depression.
Post-THA gait training to improve pelvic obliquity and decrease leg length discrepancy in DDH patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Qi Xinyu , Jie Ke , Chen Jinlun , Cao Houran , Koch John A , Li Jie , Zeng Jianchun , Feng Wenjun , Zeng Yirong
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To investigate the value of a post-operative gait training program to improve pelvic obliquity (PO) and decrease leg length discrepancy (LLD) for patients with Crowe type I developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) undergoing unilateral total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

The prospective group consisted of 35 patients who underwent one-stage unilateral THA. Pre- and post-training PO and LLD were measured for the radiological assessment and Harris Hip Score (HHS) was used for the functional assessment.

Results

The HHS improved from 55.54 ± 10.61 pre-operatively to 84.97 ± 7.63 after surgery. The mean post-training PO angle for grade 0, grade 1, and grade 2 were 2.66 ± 1.42, 2.94 ± 1.42, and 5.60 ± 1.90, respectively, compared with pre-training values of 1.42 ± 0.58, 4.17 ± 0.90, and 6.96 ± 0.46. The mean post-training LLD for grade 0, grade 1, and grade 2 were 0.83 ± 0.91, 0.56 ± 0.48, and 0.36 ± 0.30, respectively, compared with pre-training values of 0.70 ± 0.23, 1.25 ± 0.90, and 1.46 ± 1.60.

Conclusion

Gait training following unilateral THA can improve PO and decrease functional LLD in grade I DDH patients. This method may have moderate success for grade 0 DDH patients and provide limited benefit for grade II patients. Appropriate release of the soft tissues may be required for grade II DDH patients to obtain a better walking gait.
Correlations between microRNA-146a and immunoglobulin and inflammatory factors in Guillain–Barré syndrome
Authors: Huang Pan , Xu Min , He Xiao-ying
Published: March 2020

Objective

To study correlations between expression of microRNA-146a (miR-146a) and immunoglobulin and inflammatory cytokines in serum of patients with Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS).

Methods

Eighty-four patients with GBS were selected as the experimental group and 50 healthy individuals as controls. Reverse transcription-PCR was used to detect expression of miR-146a in peripheral blood of all participants. Immunoturbidometric assay was used to detect immunoglobulins (Ig)G, IgA, and IgM in peripheral blood of all participants. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) were measured by ELISA in peripheral blood. The expression of miR-146a was compared between the two groups and Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze correlations between miR-146a and immunoglobulin and inflammatory factors.

Results

Expression of miR-146a was higher in the GBS group than in controls. Expression of IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, and IgG was significantly higher in the GBS group than in controls. miR-146a was significantly and positively correlated with IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, and IgG but not with IgA and IgM.

Conclusion

The expression profile of miR-146a in patients with GBS differs from that in healthy individuals. Thus, miR-146a may participate in the pathogenesis of GBS by regulating immune and inflammatory responses.
Acute pancreatitis concomitant with diabetic ketoacidosis: a cohort from South China
Authors: Yuan Shiwen , Liao Jinli , Cai Ruibin , Xiong Yan , Zhan Hong , Zheng Ziyu
Published: March 2020

Objective

To evaluate the clinical characteristics of acute pancreatitis (AP) concomitant with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in a cohort from South China and identify factors associated with early detection of DKA in AP patients.

Methods

Inpatient medical records of AP concomitant with DKA were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Forty-eight patients with AP concomitant with DKA were enrolled in this study. The results indicated that comorbidity history of diabetes mellitus and mental status of not alert on admission were factors associated with DKA in AP patients. Compared with patients without DKA, patients with DKA showed significantly higher rates of hypertriglyceridemia and lower rates of gallstones than those without DKA. AP patients with concurrent DKA had higher levels of serum triglycerides, longer lengths of hospital stays, and higher complication rates of systemic inflammatory response syndrome and acute kidney injury.

Conclusion

AP patients might have higher risks of concomitant DKA if presenting as not alert upon admission or if they have past medical histories of diabetes mellitus. Serum triglyceride levels were significantly higher in AP patients with DKA. DKA raised the severity of AP, but did not increase in-hospital mortality.
Effects of prosocial lyrics and musical production elements on emotions, thoughts and behavior
Authors: Ruth Nicolas , Schramm Holger
Published: March 2020

Popular music with prosocial lyrics affects listeners’ thoughts, emotions and behavior, yet little is known about the role played by the actual music in this process. This study focused on the interaction between the prosocial lyrics and the musical production elements, examining whether certain versions of a song can enhance the effect of prosocial lyrics on thoughts, emotions and behavior. Based on the general learning model and the reciprocal-feedback model of music perception, a laboratory experiment ( N = 136) was conducted to test how listeners are affected by music with prosocial or neutral lyrics and by an electronic or an unplugged version of the music. For this purpose, an original song was composed and produced, using the same melodies and harmonies with varied lyrics and instrumentation. In a pilot study ( n = 36), a version with acoustic instrumentation was rated as the most emotional and fitting, whereas an electronic dance version was rated as the least emotional and fitting. There was a significant interaction effect between the lyrics and the musical production elements: Those listening to the unplugged version with prosocial lyrics showed the most empathetic emotions. Prosocial lyrics also had an effect on prosocial thoughts but not on behavior.
High-solubility aromatic polyesters with fluorene and phthalein groups: Synthesis and property
Authors: Guan Xing-Hua , Nie He-Ran , Wang Hong-Hua , Zhao Ji-Yong , Wang Zhi-Peng , Wang Rui , Liu Bao-Feng , Zhou Guang-Yuan , Gu Qiang
Published: March 2020

A series of aromatic polyesters bearing fluorene and phthalein groups were synthesized from commercially available 9,9-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)fluorene (BPF), phenolphthalein, and terephthaloyl chloride through an interfacial polymerization method. The microstructure, molecular weight, morphology, thermal properties, and thermal decomposition mechanism of these aromatic polyesters were investigated. Their mechanical properties were also evaluated. The results suggested that the copolymer compositions were approximately equal to the feed compositions. Moreover, the increase in the BPF unit content increased the glass transition and weight loss temperatures of the aromatic polyesters, owing to the strong rigidity of the bulky fluorene group. All the polymers were amorphous and exhibited good solubility in common organic solvents. Hence, the synthesized polymers could be easily cast into flexible films. The copolymer film samples exhibited better mechanical properties than those of the homopolymers. The tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and elongation at break of the polymers first increased gradually, and then decreased with increasing BPF content. Notably, the copolymers exhibited the best mechanical properties at the BPF content range 30–50%. Owing to their characteristics, these synthesized polymers show great potential for application as high performance membrane materials.