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Objectives To investigate the real‐time sensitive feedback parameter of the motor bur milling state in cervical spine posterior decompression surgery, to possibly improve the safety of cervical spine posterior decompression and robot‐assisted spinal surgeries. Methods In this study, the cervical spine of three healthy male and three healthy female pigs were randomly selected. Six porcine cervical spine specimens were fixed to the vibration isolation system. The milling state of the motor bur was defined as the lamina cancellous bone (CA), lamina ventral corticalbone (VCO), and penetrating ventral cortical bone (PVCO). A 5‐mm bur milled the CA and VCO, and a 2‐mm bur milled the VCO and PVCO. A miniature microphone was used to collect the sound signal (SS) of milling lamina which was then extracted using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). When using 5‐mm and 2‐mm bur to mill, the CA, VCO, and PVCO of each specimen were continuously collected at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 kHz frequencies for SS magnitudes. The study randomly selected the SS magnitudes of the CA and VCO continuously for 2 s at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 kHz frequencies for statistical analyses. When milling the VCO to the PVCO, we randomly collected the SS magnitudes of the VCO for consecutive 2 s and the SS magnitudes of continuous 2 s in the penetrating state at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 kHz frequencies for statistical analyses. The independent sample t‐test was used to compare the SS magnitudes of different milling states extracted from the FFT to determine the motor bur milling state. Results The SS magnitudes of the CA and VCO of all specimens extracted from the FFT at 1, 2, and 3 kHz were statistically different (P, The motor bur is the main bone milling device in cervical spine surgery. With an aim to increase the safety of dura and nerve in the milling operation, we would like to introduce the feasibility of Fast Fourier Transform analyzing sound signal protocol for distinguishing the milling status (including cancellous bone milling, cortical bone milling, and cortical bone penetration). We also proposed that our investigation would benefit the exploration of robot‐assistant spine surgery.

The human spine shortens approximately by 1% of its height during the daily activities and returns to its primary height during the night rest. Cyclic loading is important in order to ensure diffusion and convention of the nutrients and metabolites within the intervertebral discs. On the other hand, cyclic loading could lead to the damage of the intervertebral discs and the vertebra bodies if the magnitude and frequency of the loads applied to the spine exceed the allowable limits. As most of the in vitro studies that investigate the influence of cyclic loading deal with functional spinal units consisting of single intervertebral disc the purpose of this study is to investigate an influence of cyclic compression and flexion on the structural integrity and geometrical parameters of the spinal specimens consisting of more than one intervertebral disc. Two specimens consisting of four adjacent vertebrae and three intervertebral discs were scanned by using computed tomography then loaded with combined cyclic compression and flexion and then scanned for the second time in order to capture the current condition of the specimens. Obtained images were used to evaluate the changes of structural integrity and geometrical parameters of the discs. A significant decrease of the specimen height was observed during loading, mainly due to the loss of the fluid content within intervertebral discs. In total, the difference of the height of the two specimens immediately after the loading was 1.577 mm. No obvious damage to the specimens was observed when comparing images before and after the loading. A statistically significant differences between the height of the intervertebral discs before and after loading in both the first specimen (p = 0.0224) and the second specimen (p = 0.0155) were calculated with the lowest disc of both specimens decreasing the most and obviously losing the highest water content. The cross-sectional area of the lowest disc in both specimens also decreased the most. This once again confirms that lower part of the spine such as intervertebral discs L4-L5 and L5-S1 are the least prone to the injuries and degeneration due to disturbed nutrition and loss of water content.

Deinotheriidae Bonaparte, 1845 is a family of browsing proboscideans that were widespread in the Old World during the Neogene. From Miocene deposits in the Indian subcontinent, deinotheres are known largely from dental remains. Both large and small species have been described from the region. Previously, only small deinothere species have been identified from Kutch in western India. In the fossiliferous Tapar beds in Kutch, dental remains have been referred to the small speciesDeinotherium sindienseLydekker, 1880, but the specimens are too fragmentary to be systematically diagnostic. Here, we describe a large p4 of a deinothere from the Tapar beds and demonstrate that it is morphologically most similar toDeinotherium indicumFalconer, 1845, a large species of deinothere, thereby confirming the identity of deinotheres at Tapar.Deinotherium indicumfrom Tapar is larger than other deinotheres identified from Kutch and is the first occurrence of the species in the region. This new specimen helps constrain the age of the Tapar beds to the Tortonian and increases the biogeographic range of this species—hitherto only known from two localities on the subcontinent. This specimen also highlights the morphological diversity of South Asian deinothere p4s and allows us to reassess dental apomorphies used to delimit Indian deinothere species. Lastly, we argue that by the late Miocene, small deinotheres in Kutch were replaced by the largeDeinotherium indicum.

Two specimens of slender sunfish R. laevis were recorded from two locations in İskenderun Bay at depths between 0 and 24 m. The first specimen, a female, was collected via purse seine net during a benthic survey carried out in Iskenderun coast on April 2016, and the other specimen, a male, was caught at the sea surface by gill net from the Payas coast on May 2018. The fishes were 565 mm and 375 mm in total length (TL) and 4450 g and 1750 g total weight (TW), respectively. Morphometric measurements and meristic counts of the fishes are detailed and presented in this paper. This is the first substantiated confirmation of Ranzania laevis from the Northeastern Mediterranean Sea. © 2019, Springer Nature Switzerland AG.

Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the thickness of the tendinous and capsuloligamentous layers in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus zones of the shoulder. Materials and methods: Anatomical and ultrasonographic assessment of three fresh anatomical specimens consisting of the humeral head together with the capsuloligamentous layer called the superior complex and the supraspinatus and infraspinatus myotendinous units cut off at the level of the scapular glenoid rim. The first specimen was dissected on the length of approx. 10 mm from the glenoid insertion - the superior complex insertional zone to the scapula. Distally anterior (coraco-humeral and gleno-humeral superior ligaments) and posterior (gleno-humeral superior posterior ligament) limbs are connected by a transversely oriented ligament called the rotator cuff cable. This structure, together with the rest of the superior complex, belongs to the capsuloligamentous layer of the rotator cuff. The two other specimens were dissected (superior complex from the myotendinous units) from the level of the glenoid rim to the humeral insertion. Then the three specimens were scanned by ultrasound in a water bath and the measurements of both distinct layers were taken. Results: The rotator cuff in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus zone is a two-layer structure. The thickness of the tendinous and the capsuloligamentous layer is comparable. Conclusions: It may be concluded that the rotator cuff in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus zone is a two-layer structure, with the outer myotendinous layer, and the inner capsuloligamentous layer, which is called the superior complex. Since the thickness of these layers is comparable, it is important to bear in mind that the superior complex is an important part of shoulder biomechanics. Two different structures are found here - tendinous (dynamic) and capsuloligamentous (passive). Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the thickness of the tendinous and capsuloligamentous layers in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus zones of the shoulder. Materials and methods: Anatomical and ultrasonographic assessment of three fresh anatomical specimens consisting of the humeral head together with the capsuloligamentous layer called the superior complex and the supraspinatus and infraspinatus myotendinous units cut off at the level of the scapular glenoid rim. The first specimen was dissected on the length of approx. 10 mm from the glenoid insertion – the superior complex insertional zone to the scapula. Distally anterior (coraco-humeral and gleno-humeral superior ligaments) and posterior (gleno-humeral superior posterior ligament) limbs are connected by a transversely oriented ligament called the rotator cuff cable. This structure, together with the rest of the superior complex, belongs to the capsuloligamentous layer of the rotator cuff. The two other specimens were dissected (superior complex from the myotendinous units) from the level of the glenoid rim to the humeral insertion. Then the three specimens were scanned by ultrasound in a water bath and the measurements of both distinct layers were taken. Results: The rotator cuff in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus zone is a two-layer structure. The thickness of the tendinous and the capsuloligamentous layer is comparable. Conclusions: It may be concluded that the rotator cuff in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus zone is a two-layer structure, with the outer myotendinous layer, and the inner capsuloligamentous layer, which is called the superior complex. Since the thickness of these layers is comparable, it is important to bear in mind that the superior complex is an important part of shoulder biomechanics. Two different structures are found here – tendinous (dynamic) and capsuloligamentous (passive).

Objective. We design a prospective control study on the utilization of transbronchial cryobiopsy guided by EBUS-GS (EBUS-GS-TBCB) to diagnose PPLs. Methods. PPLs were defined as pulmonary nodules or masses with a diameter from 10 mm to 50 mm. PPLs were randomly divided into group EBUS-GS-TBCB and transbronchial biopsy by forceps guided under EBUS-GS (EBUS-GS-TBB). Results. 28 cases were involved in group EBUS-GS-TBCB and 31 cases were in group EBUS-GS-TBB. The mean sizes of PPLs were 30.23 ± 11.10 mm in group EBUS-GS-TBCB and 28.69 ± 8.62 mm in group EBUS-GS-TBB (t = 0.600, p = 0.551 ). The diagnostic yields of EBUS-GS-TBCB and EBUS-GS-TBB were 75% and 64.52% respectively, and the difference between the two groups was not significant (χ2 value = 0.137, p = 0.711 ). If only the first specimen was taken into account, the diagnostic yields from EBUS-GS-TBCB and EBUS-GS-TBB were 64.29% (18/28 cases) and 35.48% (11/31 cases), respectively. The difference was statistically significant by Fisher’s Exact Test (χ2 value = 4.883, p = 0.038 ). The total incidence rates of bleeding were 21.43% and 6.45%, respectively, in groups EBUS-GS-TBCB and EBUS-GS-TBB. The total incidence rates of pneumothorax were 7.14% and 0, respectively, in groups EBUS-GS-TBCB and EBUS-GS-TBB. Conclusion. The diagnostic yield of EBUS-GS-TBCB was slightly higher than that of EBUS-GS-TBB for the diagnosis of PPLs. EBUS-GS-TBCB might be useful if only the first sample was taken into account.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to report scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopic (EDS) findings of three specimens of opaque hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) explanted in delayed postoperative period for visual indications. Methods: Clinical data and photographs from each subject were obtained. Explanted IOLs were examined under gross and light microscopy followed by SEM coupled with EDS. Results: All three subjects underwent IOL implantation following senile cataract extraction at an average age of 64.3 ± 0.3 years, and the IOLs were in situ for a duration of 11.3 ± 4.04 years. The IOL explantation and exchange were done due to late postoperative opacification of the IOL and significant visual deterioration. The milky iridescent opacity affected the full thickness of IOL optics in the first two specimens and in the third only two surfaces were involved. SEM detected surface cracks in the first specimen, typical conglumated surface, pores and accumulation of crystals with surface deposit of nano-particles on the second specimen and uneven surface erosion in the third specimen. SEM detected mainly sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) spikes. All patients recovered normal vision following IOL exchange. Conclusion: SEM features of the IOL optics and absence of calcium and phosphate spikes in EDS and other findings were consistent and suggestive of hydrolytic biodegradation of hydrophobic acrylic IOL polymer in ocular media and was responsible for delayed postoperative opacification of the hydrophobic IOLs and visual loss.

In this study, the inelastic cyclic behavior of hybrid connections consisting of reinforced concrete column and steel beams (RCS) was investigated. The experimental results from the lateral load testing of four interior RCS subassembly connections are presented. The first specimen was designed based on the ASCE Guidelines 1994 , with connection details based on the study of Liang and Parra-Montesinos (2004), while another specimen was a proposed joint detail. The joint detail was developed to overcome the main problems with RCS frame systems, which is constructability. The behavior of the beam-column joints was evaluated in terms of strength capacity, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation, and joint shear distortion. Comparing all specimens based on the load-displacement hysteresis curves indicated that the specimen with the combination of ABP and EBP had relatively better performance in terms of strength, stiffness, and energy dissipation. ABP and EBF in the joint with a void web were able to withstand joint shear deformation exceeding 0.01 rad, with only low to medium level of damage. EBF was proven to be very effective in providing confinement and reducing the damage level in the joint panel. The existence of a void web did not affect the reduction of joint shear strength.

The paper reports an experimental campaign to study the effectiveness of strengthening measures proposed for rammed earth (RE) wall in an out-of-plane direction. Two simple and feasible strengthening techniques were explored, namely, mesh-wrapped and timber-framed strengthening techniques. The test involved testing three full-scale U-shaped RE walls in an out-of-plane direction. The first specimen without any intervention served as the reference wall, while the two others were strengthened with two different strengthening methods. It was observed that both proposed strengthening techniques improved the load-carrying capacity of the wall and the maximum displacement and the energy absorption. The mesh-wrapped strengthening technique was found to be more effective than the timber-framed strengthening technique, which disrupted the visual aspects of the wall&rsquo, s facade and needed proper anchoring to the foundation.

The aim of the research presented in this paper is the experimental confirmation of the numerically defined shapes of the Strut-and-Tie models, designed according to the EN 1992-1-1 recommendations, and obtained from the software &ldquo, ST method&rdquo, Three reinforced concrete deep beams with openings were tested. Each of them had the same dimensions and quality of the material characteristics. The specimens, constructed as simply supported beams, were loaded with two concentrated forces and were tested for bending until failure. Each specimen was reinforced with different reinforcement layout determined by variation parameter &beta, incorporated in the software &ldquo, For the determination of the Strut-and-Tie models, all of the reinforcement layouts were equally favored in the first specimen (&beta, = 1.0 for 0&deg, 45&deg, and 90&deg, ), only the horizontal direction was favored in the second (&beta, ), while in the third specimen the one at the angle of 45&deg, (&beta, = 1.0 for 45&deg, ). Based on the results of experimental research, it was concluded that the behavior of loaded members was in agreement with the proposed shapes of the Strut-and-Tie models that were used for their design, and it was confirmed that the program &ldquo, can be used for obtaining Strut&ndash, and-Tie models.

Context.— Studies on the adoption of voice recognition in health care have mostly focused on turnaround time and error rate, with less attention paid to the impact on the efficiency of the providers. Objective.— To study the impact of voice recognition on the efficiency of grossing biopsy specimens. Design.— Timestamps corresponding to barcode scanning for biopsy specimen bottles and cassettes were retrieved from the pathology information system database. The time elapsed between scanning a specimen bottle and the corresponding first cassette was the length of time spent on the gross processing of that specimen and is designated as the specimen time. For the first specimen of a case, the specimen time additionally included the time spent on dictating the clinical information. Therefore, the specimen times were divided into the following 2 categories: first-specimen time and subsequent-specimen time. The impact of voice recognition on specimen times was studied using both univariate and multivariate analyses. Results.— Specimen complexity, prosector variability, length of clinical information text, and the number of biopsies the prosector grossed that day were the major determinants of specimen times. Adopting voice recognition had a negligible impact on specimen times. Conclusions.— Adopting voice recognition in the gross room removes the need to hire transcriptionists without negatively impacting the efficiency of the prosectors, resulting in an overall cost saving. Using computer scripting to automatically enter clinical information (received through the electronic order interface) into report templates may potentially increase the grossing efficiency in the future.

This paper provides a quantitative and general description of the Lyell Collection kept in the Department of Earth Sciences at the Natural History Museum of London. This collection started to be built by the eminent British geologist Sir Charles Lyell (1797-1875) in 1846 when the first specimen reached the Museum. The last one entered in 1980 donated by one of Lyell’s heirs. There are more than 1700 specimens, mainly hand specimens with 93% of the fauna and flora from the Cenozoic of the Macaronesian archipelagos of the Canaries and Madeira. Those specimens that belong to the Lyell Collection with certainty have been databased and imaged. Currently they are being geo-referred automatically with the rest of the site geo-references at the NHM. This collection could be increased by a couple of dozen more specimens with those specimens located in the same drawers, but they do not have collector details. The work of data collection of these specimens was implemented over a year from 2016 to 2017, including annelids; brachiopods; bryozoans; echinoderms; scyphozoans; bivalves; gastropods; scaphopods; trilobites; plants; reptiles; fishes; and mammals. Access to the specimen-level data is available through the NHM data portal with the images associated. This is the first time that a description of the Fossil Lyell Collection dataset is available in the literature.

Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disease that is found in Indonesia. One method of examining modern thalassemia is the examination of hemoglobin fraction using the Capillary Electrophoresis. This method has a high level of accuracy and precision for quantification of hemoglobin variants.The purpose of this study was to determine the hemoglobin fraction in thalassemia patients using the Capillary Electrophoresis method. This type of research is descriptive research. The sample of this study was 3 blood specimens from thalassemia sufferers.The results showed that the first specimen, age 4 years had HbA levels of 59.9%, HbA2 levels of 4.3%, HbF levels of 14.7% and HbE levels of 21.1%. In the second specimen, 8 years of age had 88.7% HbA, 2.5% HbA2, 3.2% HbF and 5.6% HbE. In the third specimen, the age of 13 years had HbA levels of 93.8%, HbA2 levels of 4.9% and HbF levels of 1.3%.The conclusion of this study was the first specimen, HbA levels decreased, HbA2 levels increased and HbF levels increased and hemoglobin variants were found, namely HbE. In the second specimen, HbA levels decreased from the normal range, HbA2 levels were in the normal range and HbF levels increased and hemoglobin variants were found, namely HbE. In the third specimen, HbA levels decreased from the normal range, HbA2 levels and HbF levels increased, but no hemoglobin variants were found in this specimen.

A substantial number of reinforced concrete (RC) buildings with seismically substandard beam-column joints have suffered severe damage in past earthquakes. This paper focuses on the installation of RC wing walls to upgrade weak beam-column joints and to rehabilitate those moderately damaged by earthquakes. Cyclic load tests were conducted using four specimens representing an exterior 1.5-story frame with a beam-column joint. The first specimen was for a benchmark specimen, the second and third were strengthened by installing wing walls to the interior or exterior of the columns, and the fourth was rehabilitated after the existing frame was moderately damaged. Consequently, the benchmark specimen suffered severe damage to the beam-column joint. The two strengthened specimens showed different damage behaviour: the second one was ductile with beam yielding, and the third one prevented the column-sway mechanism. For the rehabilitated specimen, the beam yielded and the maximum strength was nearly equivalent to that of the second specimen in which wing walls were installed to the interior side of the columns, but damage to the joint was more severe. The test results indicated that the developed wing wall installation method is practical not only for strengthening poorly detailed beam-column joints but also for rehabilitating such joints moderately damaged by earthquakes.

Sandy Skate, Leucoraja circularis (Couch, 1838), is recorded for first time from the Syrian marine waters. Two specimens of L. circularis were caught by bottom trawl at depth about 120 m on 20 February 2017, the first specimen was an immature female and the second an immature male; they measured 580 mm and 628 mm total length, and weighed 880 g and 1240 g, respectively. This capture represents the first documented record of the species in the Syrian marine waters (Eastern Mediterranean) so further investigations should be made to detect new species along the Syrian coast.

In this paper, four large-scale one-story steel moment-resisting frame specimens have been tested. The first specimen is a onestory steel moment-resisting frame without masonry infill walls. The second is similar to the first but with infill wall having full physical contact to the frame. The other two are non-structural infill walls. The first non-structural infill wall has a complete decoupling from the frame, while the second has a full contact at the top of the wall and separated from the columns. The results of this paper have shown that life safety performance level for non-structural infill wall having a complete decoupling from the frame has satisfied the allowable story drift. This was not the case for infill wall having full physical contact to the frame or nonstructural infill walls sepatared from two sides.

Circularizing a square column by bonding concrete segments onto the sides of the column and then wrapping with fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) is considered an effective technique in strengthening square solid columns. This paper investigates the suitability of the circularization technique for strengthening square hollow concrete specimens. Eight specimens in two groups (four solid specimens and four hollow specimens) were cast and tested under axial compression. The first specimen from each group was the reference specimen. The corners of the second specimen were rounded to 20 mm radius and wrapped with two layers of carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). The third specimen was circularized with full length concrete segments and wrapped with two layers of CFRP. The fourth specimen was circularized with concrete segments shorter than the length of the specimen and wrapped with two layers of CFRP. The test results demonstrate that circularization of hollow specimens similar to the circularization of solid specimens reduces the stress concentration at the corners and enhances the ultimate load carrying capacity and ductility. The circularization with short concrete segments is more effective for hollow specimens than the circularization with full length concrete segments when the ductility is of main concern.

This study gives an overview of status and distribution of signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus), the first NICS in Estonia and its influence on native noble crayfish (Astacus astacus) populations. The first specimen of signal crayfish was caught during the monitoring of noble crayfish in North Estonia in 2008. The signal crayfish has since been found in three additional sites. Test fishing has indicated that the abundance of signal crayfish has been fluctuating between years and among localities. It has had strong negative impact on abundance of one noble crayfish population. The disconnected distribution of signal crayfish strongly suggests that these populations are the result of human-assisted introductions. Real-time PCR analyses proved that signal crayfish carry the causative agent of the crayfish plague, an oomycete Aphanomyces astaci, thus contributing to its spread. Mortalities in noble crayfish populations had been caused by A. astaci strains from A, B and E genotype group.

After it was recorded in South-West Germany and the Netherlands in 2007, the box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) spread rapidly in Europe and appeared in West Hungary in 2011. In the eastern part of the country the first specimen was caught in 2015 with a blacklight trap. On the basis of specimens of C. perspectalis caught in blacklight, pheromone or feeding attractant traps, the authors summarize its distribution and publish four new records from Hungary and the first data from West Ukraine (Transcarpathia). The flight dynamics of three generations of this pest are also described for 2015 and 2016.

Objective To test a hybrid polyethylene glycol (PEG)/gel method, specifically to attempt to increase reaction strength of accidentally overdiluted anti-Cob and broadly for proof of concept. Methods Methods were divided into 2 basic steps: sensitization and antiglobulin (AHG) testing. Sensitization was performed with PEG tubes, followed by AHG using the gel method. One wash was performed between the 2 steps. We tested 7 plasma antibody specimens. Results In addition to the first specimen, 6 additional antibodies were selected for detection by the PEG/gel hybrid method. Antibody reactivity was detected in all specimens tested with both methods. The PEG/gel method yielded enhanced reactivity in 3 of 7 antibodies (42.9%) and the equivalent of enhanced reactivity in 4 of 7 antibodies tested (57.1%). Conclusion The reactivity of diluted anti-Cob (specimen 1) was increased; thus, our concept proved to be viable. The hybrid PEG/gel method showed the equivalent of enhanced or enhanced reactivity with all specimens tested and provided a stable medium.

This work proposed reinforced concrete two-span continuous deep beams by replacing the well-known conventional reinforcement by reinforcing struts and ties only and omitting the concrete where the struts and ties do not pass through. The strut and tie modelling recommended by ACI 318M-14 was adopted herein. The struts and ties were reinforced as compressive and tensile members, respectively. Twelve specimens, which were divided into four groups, were cast and tested. In every group, the first specimen was a conventionally reinforced reference beam, the second specimen was a specimen in which only the stress paths of the struts and ties were reinforced, and the third specimen was the proposed frame. The strut-tie angle, specimen width and loading type were taken into consideration as main parameters. Generally, the proposals gave less load capacity than the reference specimens, but they remained higher than the design load. In addition, the proposed specimens significantly reduced the weight.

Two large-scale structural assemblages, which had equivalent PreWEC (Precast Wall with End Columns) rocking-wall systems but different surrounding structures, were tested under quasi-static cyclic loading to study the impact of wall-floor interaction on the performance of rocking-wall buildings. The first specimen (PFS1) included cast-in-place (CIP) edge columns and a CIP unbonded post-tensioned slab with rigid wall-floor connections, which maximized wall-floor interaction. The second specimen (PFS2) included precast edge columns and a precast slab with special vertical-isolation wall-floor connectors, which minimized wall-floor interaction. Test results showed that both structural assemblages demonstrated great seismic performance with limited damage and self-centering behavior. The strength of PFS1 was more than twice that of PFS2; PFS2 encountered less damage and had better self-centering performance than PFS1, but it possessed less energy-dissipation capacity. The difference in the performance of the two assemblages was mainly attributed to the different gravity load transfer paths and constraint effects of the surrounding structures. Contributions to the strength and the self-centering behavior of the two assemblages from different structural elements were quantified and compared.

Two new hemipteran taxa are described: Dysmorphoptiloides losrastrosensis sp. nov. and Gualoscarta obscura gen. et sp. nov. (Auchenorryncha: Dysmorphoptilidae). Likewise, we report the first specimen of a corixid (Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) from the Triassic of Gondwana. The fossil material studied in this paper comes from the Gualo locality, the Carnian Los Rastros Formation, Ischigualasto-Villa Union Basin, La Rioja Province, Argentina. From new available material, we present a new forewing reconstruction of Saaloscytina carmonae Martins-Neto et al., 2006a and discuss its taxonomic position. As an additionally contribution, three genera from the Los Rastros Formation are revised: Gualoscytina Martins-Neto and Gallego, 2003, Argentinopheloscyta Martins-Neto and Gallego, 2003, and Australocicada Martins-Neto and Gallego, 2001 are synonymized to Apheloscyta Tillyard, 1922 (Apheloscyta mayae comb. nov.), Mesoscytina Tillyard, 1919 (Mesoscytina forsterae comb. nov.), and Fulgobole Shcherbakov, 2011 (Fulgobole arcucciae comb. nov.), respectively. Finally, the authors discuss the paleobiological and paleogeographical implications of this new material from the Triassic of Gondwana.

Flat slab systems are vastly used in multi-story buildings because of their savings in story height and construction time, as well as for their flexibility in architectural remodeling. However, they frequently suffer brittle punching-shear failure around columns, especially when subjected to lateral loads. Therefore, seismic codes labeled flat slabs as non-ductile systems. This research goal is investigating some construction alternatives to enhance flat slab ductility and deformability. The alternatives are: adding different types of punching-shear reinforcement, using discreet fibers in concrete mixes, and increasing thickness of slab around columns. The experimental study included preparation and testing of seven half-scale interior slab-column connections up to failure. The first specimen is considered a reference, the second two specimens made of concrete mixes with different volumetric ratios of polymer fibers. Another three specimens reinforced with different types of punching-shear reinforcement, and the last specimen constructed with drop panel of inverted pyramidal shape. It is found that using the inverted pyramid-shape drop panel of specimen, increases the punching-shear capacity, and the initial and the post-cracking stiffnesses. The initial elastic stiffnesses are different for all specimens especially for the slab with closed stirrups where it is experienced the highest initial stiffness compared to the reference slab.

This paper presents a comparison of analytical and experimental results of an investigation on the diagonally stiffened steel plate shear walls (SPWs). Experimental studies were carried out on three 1/3-scaled, one story single bay shear walls. The first specimen was a control specimen which was unstiffened and the other two specimens were diagonally stiffened using different stiffener configurations. Finite-element models of full SPWs are developed using finite element model. The results are compared with experimental results to investigate the influence of stiffeners on the behavior of the specimens. Good agreement between analytical and experimental models is found in point of failure modes and specimens' behavior. Based on the theory of plates and shells and frame analysis an equation is proposed to calculate the strength of both stiffened and unstiffened SPWs which could predict the experimental results accurately.

No estudo foi aplicado o Método de Índice de Qualidade (MIQ) adaptado para o Pangasius bocourti inteiro armazenado em gelo durante 25 dias, foi avaliado o frescor e estimado seu tempo de vida de prateleira e consumo humano aceitável, utilizando 80 exemplares despescados em uma piscicultura localizada no município de Bom Jardim - MA. Foram aplicadas análises sensoriais de atributos de qualidade por cinco julgadores treinados, em 10 exemplares/dia. Os escores foram tabulados, estimando-se a média e os desvios padrões para cada um dos cinco julgadores, para cada atributo e subatributo obtido. As análises microbiológicas utilizaram oito exemplares consistindo na utilização do primeiro exemplar/dia em cada dia de análise sensorial. O Protocolo MIQ proporcionou de 0 - 33 pontos deméritos, com seis atributos e 15 subatributos de qualidade. Nas análises microbiológicas foi verificado que as amostras se encontravam dentro do padrão estabelecido pela legislação brasileira mesmo após os 25 dias de estocagem. Conclui-se que o Método do Índice da Qualidade do P. bocourti foi eficaz para avaliar o frescor e estimar a vida útil da espécie. O P. bocourti inteiro armazenado em gelo permaneceu com seus índices sensoriais aptos para o consumo humano avaliadas pelo MIQ por até 12 dias.

The objective of this experimental study is to assess the effect of new flexural anchorage devices on improving the performance of strengthened reinforced concrete beams in flexure. Six reinforced concrete (RC) beams were prepared and tested, three of which having identical T cross-section and the other three with identical rectangular section. The first specimen in each series was tested as a control beam. The second specimen in each series was strengthened using four layers of flexural CFRP in addition to side GFRP bars. The sidebars were inserted longitudinally into side grooves at the level of primary steel reinforcement to prevent peeling off from the sides. The last specimen in each series was strengthened in flexure using identical four layers of CFRP plus GFRP patches installed longitudinally along both sides of the beam. The beams were tested under four-point bending until failure and the results for each series are evaluated. In addition, the outcome is compared with U-wrap anchorage technique that has been examined by others. It was concluded that using CFRP sheets with both anchorage devices significantly increased the flexural capacity beyond that of unanchored and U-wrap anchored specimens. Quantitatively speaking, T beams anchored with GFRP sidebars and GFRP side patches showed 74% and 58% increase in strength over unanchored strengthened specimens respectively.

From an initial isolated position as the oldest evolutionary prototype of a bird, Archaeopteryx has, as a result of recent fossil discoveries, become embedded in a rich phylogenetic context of both more and less crownward stem-group birds, prompting debate over whether Archaeopteryx is simply a convergently bird-like non-avialan theropod. Here we show, using the first synchrotron microtomographic examination of this genus, that the eighth or Daiting specimen of Archaeopteryx possesses a character suite that robustly constrains it as a basal avialan (primitive bird). The specimen, which comes from the Mörnsheim Formation and is thus younger than the other specimens from the underlying Solnhofen Formation, is distinctive enough to merit designation as a new species, Archaeopteryx albersdoerferi sp. nov., but is recovered in close phylogenetic proximity to Archaeopteryx lithographica. Skeletal innovations of the Daiting specimen, such as fusion and pneumatization of the cranial bones, well vascularized pectoral girdle and wing elements, and a reinforced configuration of carpals and metacarpals, suggest that it may have had more characters seen in flying birds than the older Archaeopteryx lithographica. These innovations appear to be convergent on those of more crownward avialans, suggesting that Bavarian archaeopterygids independently acquired increasingly bird-like traits over time. Such mosaic evolution and iterative exploration of adaptive space may be typical for major functional transitions like the origin of flight.

WOS: 000279390300012, Turkey and neighborhood countries like Greece and Iran are situated on an active earthquake region. Masonry type structures are very common on these countries, especially on the rural areas. During the last earthquakes, several masonry type houses were collapsed, causing loss of life and property. Strengthening methods of masonry houses were discussed in this study. The paper summarizes the results of a experimental programme carried out on models, scaled 1/10, of one-storey masonry buildings. First specimen tested was the reference specimen and used for comparison purposes. Other specimens contained several strengthening strategies. A total of 9 specimens were tested. The results allow to assess the efficiency of the various strengthening techniques employed., Selcuk University Scientific Research Project Office (BAP)Selcuk University, This study was supported by the Selcuk University Scientific Research Project Office (BAP). The authors also thanks to Ahmet Turer and Serra Zerrin Korkmaz for the experimental study.

Two individuals of ranid species, Hylarana picturata and Hylarana laterimaculata, were collected from Sungai Sedim Recreational Forest. A single individual of dicroglossid species, Occidozyga laevis and two individuals of Polypedates leucomystax , were captured from Ulu Paip and Bukit Hijau Recreational Forest respectively. When approached and handled for photography, the first two species leaped in very erratic patterns for approximately 10-15 minutes, before becoming exhausted and exhibiting death feigning posture. However, the third species only made a single leap before displayed a death feigning behaviour. The latter species also showed thanatosis behaviour, but in a very different body posture. The first specimen of P. leucomystax flexed its head ventrally, while the second specimen stretched its hindlimbs laterally.

Recent excavations at two rockshelters (Olsteinhelleren and Saevarhelleren) on the Hardanger fjord in Western Norway have provided an unparalleled opportunity to examine the Mesolithic subsistence economy of this region. Thousands of fish remains (as well as numerous mammal and bird bones) have been analysed from these assemblages. Results show that the fishery was dominated by gadids, but labrids and salmonids were also important. Many other fish were present in small quantities, including the first specimen of sturgeon from the Stone Age of Norway. The transition to a more specialised fishery at the younger site, Olsteinhelleren, may be a reflection of a switch to the use of this locality as a logistic camp for the targeting of gadid fish.

The cyclic behavior of RCS connection consisted of Reinforced Concrete (RC) columns and Steel (S) beams is studied in this paper. Two interior connections are investigated experimentally. The joint of the first specimen is designed according to ASCE 1994 guideline, while the second specimen has a new proposed joint detail. Self-consolidating concrete is used in both specimens. Self-consolidating concrete could improve constructability of the congested joint of RCS frames. The specimens detail include steel band plates, face bearing plates, L-shaped joint stirrups, and steel doubler plate for the panel zone. The proposed joint detail consists of additional bearing plates, which cause an increase in bearing & joint shear strength. Based on the experimental results, the behavior of both specimens was ductile and maintained their strength at high story drifts. This means that, RCS frames can be used in high seismic zones. By comparing the performance of two specimens, it is observed that using additional bearing plates, increases bearing and shear strength of the joint. Additionally, the inelastic force-deformation response of both specimens is simulated using the OpenSees software by taking into consideration the joint shear and bearing distortions. A modified method for modeling this type of connection is introduced and verified with experimental results.

This study used test frames were purposely detailed and constructed with observed deficiencies in investigated dormitory buildings of Turkey. In this study, four reinforced concrete frames were produced two storeys, one bay and 3D in 1/6 geometric scale was tested. Since the studied frame was the external frame of the structure, brick infill wall with a window opening was also included. The first specimen was the reference specimen and contained no strengthening and no brick wall. The second specimen was contained brick wall. The third specimen was strengthened with internal steel panel. Finally fourth specimen’s was strengthened with infilled RC shear wall. The test specimens were subjected to reversed cyclic quasi-static lateral loading. Strength of the test specimens were measured and compared. Test results indicated that the strengthened specimens displayed significantly higher lateral strength than the reference specimen considerably.

WOS: 000353220100008, Depending on the damage type as well as the level of damage observed after the earthquake, certain measures should be taken for the damaged buildings. In this study, structural repairing of two different types of damaged RC beam-column assembly by carbon fiber-reinforced polymer sheets is investigated in detail as a member repairing technique. Two types of 1: 1 scale test specimens, which represent the exterior RC beam-column connection taken from inflection points of the frame, are utilized. The first specimen is designed according to the current Turkish Earthquake Code, whereas the second one represents a deficient RC beam-column assembly. Both of the specimens were subjected to cyclic quasi-static loading in the laboratory and different levels of structural damage were observed. The first specimen displayed a ductile response with the damage concentrated in the beam. However, in the second specimen, the beam-column joint was severely damaged while the rest of the members did not attain their capacities. Depending on the damage type of the specimens, the damaged members were repaired by CFRP wrapping with different configurations. After testing the repaired specimens, it is found that former capacities of the damaged members were mostly recovered by the application of CFRPs on the damaged members., Anadolu University Scientific Research Projects Commission [1210F169], The research described in this paper was financially supported by Anadolu University Scientific Research Projects Commission [grant number 1210F169].

Calymmaria persica (Hentz) is a rarely collected spider in the family Hahniidae (Araneae) previously known to occur primarily in the Appalachian Mountains. This note reports 2 new localities, each of which is a significant range extension for this species. One specimen was collected on Mount Magazine, AR, and is the first record west of the Mississippi River. The second locality is the Loessal Hills in north-central Mississippi and represents the first specimen collected in the region between southwestern Mississippi (Wilkinson County) and the Appalachian region of northern Alabama. An updated range map is included.

We report the first specimen-based records of Heosemys spinosa (Gray 1830) from Myanmar, validating earlier assumptions of its occurrence within the country. Our records consist of 5 living H. spinosa examined at Kan Baw Gyi Village in Tanintharyi Region of southern Myanmar. These specimens originated from seasonally inundated lowland riparian wetlands near the village where we examined them. Potential threats to H. spinosa in southern Myanmar include subsistence and commercial harvesting and, most importantly, the widespread conversion of natural forests to oil palm plantations.

This paper presents the results for three full-scale T beams and three full-scale rectangular beams that were tested while strengthened with CFRP sheets and anchored using two types of CFRP spike anchors. For each beam type, the first specimen was loaded to failure as a control beam whereas the other two beams were strengthened with identical CFRP sheets and anchored along the shear spans. Same designs were used on both series to perform comparisons between the behavior of T and rectangular beams. The required number of CFRP anchors were established using a newly developed design procedure presented in this paper. Experimental testing and nonlinear analysis confirmed the performance of the anchored beams, which attained full flexural capacity that was controlled by FRP rupture for T beams and concrete crushing for rectangular beams. The results prove that the design and the arrangement of CFRP anchors offer an effective solution against premature debonding failure. The effect of anchors is accounted for using a multiplier proposed here to augment the ACI 440.2R-17 effective design strain. This multiplier is based on the ratio of the CFRP strain at failure of anchored beams to the debonding strain. Comparisons are made with beams of comparable CFRP sheets and U-wrap anchorage system tested in a previous study.

An immature male Malayan Night-Heron Gorsachius melanolophus found as road-kill on Christmas Island in 2011 represents the first specimen of this species from Australian territory to be retained (although other individuals have been seen and one was trapped, measured and released). The specimen is now preserved in the bird collection of the Australian Museum.

The present paper is concerned with the development and influence of catenary action in one-way slabs. The testing of two longitudinally restrained large-scale slab specimens subjected to an accidental event (removal of the central support) and subsequent monotonic vertical loading until collapse is described. The observed increase in the load-carrying capacity as well as the change in the structural behaviour in slabs that are restrained against inward movement is investigated. Whereas the first specimen is designed with continuous flexural reinforcement over the entire length, the second slab test is subjected to the same loading scheme and has the same geometrical dimensions, but differs in the reinforcement arrangement, considering a more conventional reinforcement curtailment. Comparisons are made with respect to the development of displacements, strains and cracks in the critical sections. The failure of the top reinforcement bars over the supports occurs at approximately the same load level. In addition, the failure mode (failure of the bottom reinforcement bars over the supports) is the same for both slabs. However, the final collapse load in case of the slab with curtailed reinforcement is strongly reduced due to the reduction of reinforcement in the bottom layer over the supports. The results of this contribution are of particular importance with respect to the validation of numerical and deterministic models related to the development of tensile membrane action in concrete slabs in the framework of robustness assessment.

Explosions, such as a bomb explosion and a gas explosion, can cause catastrophic damage on the buildings. In fact, an explosion may result in large dynamic loads, greater than the original design loads, of many structures. Two RC specimens were tested under explosive loading. The first specimen was used as a control for the experiment, while the other was retrofitted with 6 near surface mounted (NSM) Carbon FRP strips on each face. Both specimens were subjected to a 60g Pentolite at stand off distances of 0.6m. The aim of this experiment was to observe and compare the behavior of the two specimens, and their ability to resist blast loads respectively. Of particular interest was the response of the retrofitted RC specimens NSM Carbon FRP. The experimental results showed that NSM retrofitting with Carbon FRP is an effective way to provide extra strength when retrofitting against blast loading.

4 groupsconcrete columns specimens which have different eccentricityities were fabricated , The first specimen was just made of reinforced concrete. The second was enlaced with 3 lays carbon fiber reinforced polymer. The third had SFRCs added to it. The last was reinforced with SFRCs and enlaced with carbon fiber reinforced polymer.The results showed that the introduction of fibres as well as wrapping the specimens with FRP improve the strength of concrete,especially its ductility.

Turkey is situated on a very earthquake zone of the world namely Alp-Himalayan Earthquake Zone. Several destructive earthquakes resulted in high dead losses in the last century. Turkish building stock consisted of nonductile RC framed structures commonly 3 to 7 stories. The common properties of the existing structures is the poor lateral resistance. The residental buildings with poor earthquake resistance must be rehabilitated with a rapid, economical, feasible and effective strengthening methods. The external shear wall addition to the existing poor frame is studied experimentally in this study. 6 specimens were tested under reversed cyclic lateral loading simulating the seismic action. The first specimen was the reference specimen and didn't contain any strengthening and tested to see reference behaviour. The other specimens were strengthened with external shear walls with or without openings. The size of the openings is a parameter in the study. Secons specimen didn't contain any opening. Columns of the frames also jacketed with reinforced concrete. The maximum lateral load carrying capacity, ductility capacities, energy consuption capacities, improvement in the lateral rigidities were investigated.

In the last decade, seven major earthquakes caused significant casualties and extensive structural failures. Thousands of RC buildings were severely damaged or collapsed in Turkey due to various deficiencies. This has initiated experimental studies on strengthening methods and intensive researches regarding the rehabilitation of reinforced concrete structures by introducing reinforced concrete infill walls were carried out. Strengthening of reinforced concrete frames by cast-in-place reinforced concrete infills is commonly used in practice. Many structures were also repaired using this technique after the recent earthquakes. In this experimental research, six, one-bay/two-story, 1/3-scaled non-ductile, undamaged reinforced concrete (RC) frames were constructed and tested to investigate the behavior of frames strengthened by introducing infills with or without openings. The test specimens were subjected to reversed cyclic quasi-static lateral loading. The specimens were constructed with the most commonly observed deficiencies in residential RC buildings in Turkey. The first specimen was the reference bare specimen and contained no strengthening. The other specimens were infilled with RC panels with openings having different ratios and configurations. Strength, stiffness and storey drifts of the test specimens were measured and compared. Test results indicated that infilled RC frames displayed significantly higher lateral strength and stiffness than the non-ductile bare frame considerably.