bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forgetting as the friend of learning: implications for teaching and self-regulated learning
Authors: Bjork Robert A. , Bjork Elizabeth L.
Published: April 2019

One of the “important peculiarities” of human learning (Bjork RA and Bjork EL. From Learning Processes to Cognitive Processes: Essays in Honor of William K. Estes, 1992, p. 35–67) is that certain conditions that produce forgetting—that is, impair access to some to-be-learned information studied earlier—also enhance the learning of that information when it is restudied. Such conditions include changing the environmental context from when some to-be-learned material is studied to when that material is restudied; increasing the delay from when something is studied to when it is tested or restudied; and interleaving, rather than blocking, the study or practice of the components of to-be-learned knowledge or skills. In this paper, we provide some conjectures as to why conditions that produce forgetting can also enable learning, and why a misunderstanding of this peculiarity of how humans learn can result in nonoptimal teaching and self-regulated learning.
Efficacy and safety of 20% albumin fluid loading in healthy subjects: a comparison of four resuscitation fluids
Authors: Bihari Shailesh , Wiersema Ubbo F , Perry Rebecca , Schembri David , Bouchier Tara , Dixon Dani , Wong Teresa , Bersten Andrew D
Published: April 2019

Recently, buffered salt solutions and 20% albumin (small volume resuscitation) have been advocated as an alternative fluid for intravenous resuscitation. The relative comparative efficacy and potential adverse effects of these solutions have not been evaluated. In a randomized, double blind, cross-over study of six healthy male subjects we compared the pulmonary and hemodynamic effects of intravenous administration of 30 ml/kg of 0.9% saline, Hartmann's solution and 4% albumin, and 6 ml/kg of 20% albumin (albumin dose equivalent). Lung tests (spirometry, ultrasound, impulse oscillometry, diffusion capacity, and plethysmography), two- to three-dimensional Doppler echocardiography, carotid applanation tonometry, blood gases, serum/urine markers of endothelial, and kidney injury were measured before and after each fluid bolus. Data were analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA with effect of fluid type examined as an interaction. Crystalloids caused lung edema [increase in ultrasound B line ( P = 0.006) and airway resistance ( P = 0.009)], but evidence of lung injury [increased angiopoietin-2 ( P = 0.019)] and glycocalyx injury [increased syndecan ( P = 0.026)] was only observed with 0.9% saline. The colloids caused greater left atrial stretch, decrease in lung volumes, and increase in diffusion capacity than the crystalloids, but without pulmonary edema. Stroke work increased proportionally to increase in preload with all four fluids ( R2 = 0.71). There was a greater increase in cardiac output and stroke volume after colloid administration, associated with a reduction in afterload. Hartmann’s solution did not significantly alter ventricular performance. Markers of kidney injury were not affected by any of the fluids administrated. Bolus administration of 20% albumin is both effective and safe in healthy subjects.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Bolus administration of 20% albumin is both effective and safe in healthy subjects when compared with other commonly available crystalloids and colloidal solution.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Temperature Distribution on Reactor Pressure Vessel Support under Operating Conditions
Authors: He Longkun , Lv Ying , Liu Pengfei
Published: April 2019

Reactor pressure vessel (RPV) support is a key safety facility which is categorized as Class 1 in the ASME nuclear safety design. The temperature distribution of RPV support is one of the key considerations for the concrete safety contacting with the bottom of the support. So it is necessary for accurate evaluation on the temperature field characteristics of RPV support, especially the bottom of support. This paper investigates the temperature field characteristics of modified RPV support which will be applied to a large advanced pressurized water reactor. A support entity is manufactured in a ratio of 1:1, and its temperature distribution is measured under simulated reactor operating conditions. Numerical simulation is also used to validate the results by the developed CFD model. The results show that under the operating conditions, of which the inlet cooling air temperature is 35.35°C and the velocity is 6.25 m/s, the temperature distribution of modified RPV support bottom is uneven, and the highest temperature is around 38°C, which is much lower than the demanding design temperature 93.3°C. Therefore, the design of the modified RPV support is reliable. In addition, the results of numerical simulation agree well with the experimental results with the error less than ±4°C, which ensures the reliability of the conclusion. The effects of inlet cooling air temperature and velocity on the RPV support temperature distribution are further studied. Both the temperature decrease and velocity increase can reduce the RPV support temperature. But the effect of inlet cooling air temperature is more obvious than inlet cooling air velocity. So the best way to improve air cooling capacity is to decrease the support inlet cooling air temperature. The results can provide a good guidance to the design of RPV support for the subsequent large advanced pressurized water reactor.
Real‐Time Warning and Risk Assessment of Tailings Dam Disaster Status Based on Dynamic Hierarchy‐Grey Relation Analysis
Authors: Li Wen , Ye Yicheng , Hu Nanyan , Wang Xianhua , Wang Qihu
Published: April 2019

The consequences of tailings dam breaks are disastrous; although various factors can often result in tailings dam damage, the main cause is poor management. To reduce human supervision errors and ensure that real‐time early warnings alerts are sent for any risks, 22 evaluation indexes that affect dam breaks were set up based on inherent and frequency risk. To efficiently predict an early dam break signal for a tailings dam, 12 key evaluation indexes of a dynamic early warning system were screened and a comprehensive consideration of the risk trend was undertaken. The current and future states of the 12 indexes were analyzed based on a borda count and dynamic analytic hierarchy process (AHP) methods and early warning grades for tailings dam damage were evaluated using the dynamic grey relation analysis method. The dynamic AHP method, which avoids the tedious testing and risks of static early warning states, was compared to the traditional method. This research provides a useful basis upon which mining enterprises can select reasonable and effective prediction indexes for risk assessment, fully implement and promote intelligent management of major risks, and conduct accurate and authentic supervision at all levels.
How Does Overconfidence Affect Decision Making of the Green Product Manufacturer?
Authors: Liu Jian , Zhou Hui , Wan Miyu , Liu Lu
Published: April 2019

Overconfidence is a universal and prevalent cognitive bias affecting decision making in operation management. In this paper, overconfidence is defined as a cognitive bias in which decision makers overestimate the accuracy of demand forecasting or (and) the demand itself. We call these two behaviors overprecision and overestimation, respectively. In order to explore how overconfidence affects decision making of the green product manufacturer, we build the demand function based on the manufacturer’s overconfidence and establish a newsboy‐based model. Then the influence of overconfidence on product greenness, output, and profit is mainly discussed. We have several new sights as follows. First, overconfidence makes the manufacturer produce greener products than the rational manufacturer, and overestimation results in a higher greenness deviation than overprecision. Second, the influence of overconfidence on the output of green products is quite different from that of nongreen products. Specifically speaking, overestimation makes the manufacturer produce more products than the rational manufacturer, so do the overprecision manufacturer and the dual‐overconfident manufacturer under the low‐profit condition. But in high‐profit condition, when greening investment factor is low and (or) consumers are sensitive enough to greenness, the overprecision manufacturer produces more than the rational manufacturer; when the level of overestimation exceeds a threshold, output of the dual‐overconfident is greater than that of the rational manufacturer. Third, overconfidence makes the real profit of the manufacturer less than optimal profit of the rational manufacturer. There is a positive cross‐effect of overprecision and overestimation in real profit of the dual‐overconfident manufacturer. That is, to some extent, one kind of overconfidence can offset the decline in profit caused by the other kind of overconfidence.
Modified Three‐Term Conjugate Gradient Method and Its Applications
Authors: Liu Jiankun , Du Shouqiang
Published: April 2019

We propose a modified three‐term conjugate gradient method with the Armijo line search for solving unconstrained optimization problems. The proposed method possesses the sufficient descent property. Under mild assumptions, the global convergence property of the proposed method with the Armijo line search is proved. Due to simplicity, low storage, and nice convergence properties, the proposed method is used to solve ‐tensor systems and a kind of nonsmooth optimization problems with l1‐norm. Finally, the given numerical experiments show the efficiency of the proposed method.
Phytomedicines Used for Diabetes Mellitus in Ghana: A Systematic Search and Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence
Authors: Adinortey Michael Buenor , Agbeko Rosemary , Boison Daniel , Ekloh William , Kuatsienu Lydia Enyonam , Biney Emmanuel Ekow , Affum Obed O. , Kwarteng Jeffery , Nyarko Alexander Kwadwo
Published: April 2019

Background. Available data indicate that diabetes mellitus leads to elevated cost of healthcare. This imposes a huge economic burden on households, societies, and nations. As a result many Ghanaians, especially rural folks, resort to the use of phytomedicine, which is relatively less expensive. This paper aims at obtaining information on plants used in Ghana to treat diabetes mellitus, gather and present evidence-based data available to support their uses and their mechanisms of action, and identify areas for future research.Method. A catalogue of published textbooks, monographs, theses, and peer-reviewed articles of plants used in Ghanaian traditional medicine between 1987 and July 2018 for managing diabetes mellitus was obtained and used.Results. The review identified 76 plant species belonging to 45 families that are used to manage diabetes mellitus. Leaves were the part of the plants frequently used for most preparation (63.8%) and were mostly used as decoctions. Majority of the plants belonged to the Euphorbiaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Apocynaceae families. Pharmacological data were available on 23 species that have undergonein vitrostudies. Forty species have been studied usingin vivoanimal models. Only twelve plants and their bioactive compounds were found with data on both preclinical and clinical studies. The records further indicate that medicinal plants showing antidiabetic effects did so via biochemical mechanisms such as restitution of pancreaticβ-cell function, improvement in insulin sensitivity by receptors, stimulating rate of insulin secretion, inhibition of liver gluconeogenesis, enhanced glucose absorption, and inhibition of G-6-Pase,α-amylase, andα-glucosidase activities.Conclusion. This review contains information on medicinal plants used to manage diabetes mellitus, including their pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action as well as models used to investigate them. It also provides gaps that can form the basis for further investigations and development into useful medications for effective treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Laparoscopic Management of Bouveret’s Syndrome after Failed Endoscopic Approach
Authors: Tchercansky Ariel Nicolas , Busnelli Guido Luis , Mihura Matías , Maurette Rafael José
Published: April 2019

Bouveret’s syndrome is a complication of cholelithiasis that presents with gastric outlet obstruction due to an impacted gallstone in the duodenum following cholecystoduodenal fistula. This is a rare presentation of biliary-enteric fistula; therefore, there are no standardized guidelines for the management of this disease. We present a case of a patient with Bouveret’s syndrome managed with laparoscopic surgery after an unsuccessful attempt of endoscopic removal.
Combination Synchronization of Three Nonidentical Ecological Systems with Species Invasion
Authors: Weigang Xu , Yilei Yu , Henian Wang
Published: April 2019

The research investigates synchronizing dynamics of three nonidentical ecological systems, one of which is invaded by an exterior top predator. For studying the effects of species invasion in the synchronizing dynamics, combination synchronization of one drive system and two response systems is designed: the ecological system with species invasion taken as drive system, and the other ecological systems as response systems. Using active backstepping design, the conditions for achievement of combination synchronization are derived. Under the conditions, numerical simulations are performed to demonstrate the synchronizing dynamics of ecological systems under species invasion. The results suggest that mechanism of synchronization plays an important role in determining chaos when ecological systems are interacting with each other.
A Class of Trigonometric Bernstein‐Type Basis Functions with Four Shape Parameters
Authors: Zhu Yuanpeng , Liu Zhuo
Published: April 2019

In this work, a family of four new trigonometric Bernstein‐type basis functions with four shape parameters is constructed, which form a normalized basis with optimal total positivity. Based on the new basis functions, a kind of trigonometric Bézier‐type curves with four shape parameters, analogous to the cubic Bézier curves, is constructed. With appropriate choices of control points and shape parameters, the resulting trigonometric Bézier‐type curves can represent exactly any arc of an ellipse or parabola. The four shape parameters have tension control roles on adjusting the shape of resulting curves. Moreover, a new corner cutting algorithm is also proposed for calculating the trigonometric Bézier‐type curves stably and efficiently.
CO2 and SO2 Pressure-Driven Adsorption by 3D Graphene Nanoslits: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Borges Amanda Caroline , Köhler Mateus H. , Bordin José Rafael
Published: April 2019

Nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations are employed to study the adsorption and blockage properties of a 3D graphene membrane. Specifically, we are interested in the mixtures of carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), two of the most relevant pollutant gases for the anthropogenic effect in global warming. We simulate cases with distinct proportion of gases in the mixture. Our results indicate that the 3D graphene slit is able to absorb 90% or more of the gas molecules. We show that this property came from the fact that both CO2 and SO2 molecules are attracted by the graphene pore, which compensates for the entropic barrier that exists when leaving the bulk state to the confined state. Also, the simulation results show that changing the interlayer separation between the graphene sheets is possible in order to change the membrane properties, from absorbent to blockage. These results help to understand the properties of 3D graphene nanoslits and their application as highly selective filters.
A Novel Motion‐Intelligence‐Based Control Algorithm for Object Tracking by Controlling PAN‐Tilt Automatically
Authors: Yang Jianbing , Tang Zhiyong , Pei Zhongcai , Song Xiao
Published: April 2019

As computer vision develops, pan‐tilt platform visual systems are able to track moving target over static camera systems. In this paper, a novel motion‐intelligence‐based control algorithm for object tracking by controlling pan‐tilt platform has been proposed. The algorithm includes the motion control model based on angular speed and the intelligent control algorithm based on reinforcement learning (RL). The motion control model converts deviation between the center point of the tracked target and the center point of the frame to angular speed of pan‐tilt platform. It can keep position of the tracked object in the center of the frame automatically. The intelligent control algorithm based on reinforcement learning can reduce the error between the ideal value and the actual value when the pan‐tilt platform moves. The two blocks work together to make the pan‐tilt platform track a dynamic object more stably and the experiment result shows that both the tracking accuracy and robustness are improved.
Towards an Integrated Curriculum in a Speech and Language Pathology Education Programme: Development and Constituents’ Initial Responses
Authors: Strömbergsson Sofia , Holm Katarina , Lohmander Anette , Östberg Per
Published: April 2019

Background: A traditional curricular structure may challenge integration between foundational and clinical sciences in speech and language pathology (SLP) education. This project aimed to increase curriculum integration at a Swedish SLP education programme. Methods: Learning outcomes in the existent curriculum were copied from their original courses and re-structured with reference to vertical tracks, in order to address them within and across years of study. A content analysis of interviews with teachers and students was conducted for the evaluation of curricular change. Results: Among the changes were earlier introduction to clinical science and revisiting of foundational sciences later in the education. Theme concepts were defined to scaffold horizontal integration, whereas revisited use of documented material was formalized to ensure vertical integration. In evaluation interviews, multiple examples were provided of how the new curriculum was perceived as being more integrated, with horizontal themes and vertical tracks providing structure. Concerns raised highlight the importance of appointing clear responsibilities. Conclusions: The concepts “gaps” and “overlaps” may guide remediation of areas where increased curricular integration is warranted. Serial child observations running through the curriculum may provide a platform for both horizontal and vertical integration. For maintenance of curricular integration, clear responsibilities are needed, stretching across course and semester boundaries.
Functional Connectivity and Metabolic Alterations in Medial Prefrontal Cortex in a Rat Model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: A Resting-State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and in vivo Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Tang Shiyu , Xu Su , Waddell Jaylyn , Zhu Wenjun , Gullapalli Rao P. , Mooney Sandra M.
Published: April 2019

Prenatal ethanol exposure alters brain structure, functional connectivity, and behavior in humans and rats. Behavioral changes include deficits in executive function, which requires cooperative activity between the frontal cortices and other brain regions. In this study, we analyzed the functional connectivity and neurochemical levels of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) in ethanol-exposed (Eth) and control (Ctr) rats. Pregnant Long-Evans rats were fed a liquid diet containing ethanol (2.1–6.46% v/v ethanol) from gestational days 6 to 21 (Eth). Ctr animals received an isocaloric, isonutritive liquid diet. In young adulthood, male and female offspring underwent in vivo MRI using a 7.0-Tesla system. 1H-MRS from the PFC and whole brain rsfMRI were obtained on the animals. Seed-based functional connectivity analysis was performed with seeds placed in the PFC, matching the voxel of MRS. Male, but not female, Eth rats showed less functional connectivity between PFC and dorsal striatum than Ctr animals. In Eth males glucose levels were significantly lower, and in Eth females lower levels of phosphorylcholine but an increased gamma-aminobutyric acid/glutamate ratio were observed in the PFC compared with Ctr animals. Prenatal ethanol alters brain metabolism and functional connectivity of the PFC in a sex-dependent manner.
Intrahepatic Oxaliplatin and Systemic 5-FU +/– Cetuximab in Chemo-Naïve Patients with Liver Metastases from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Larsen Finn Ole , Jensen Benny V. , Nørgaard Hans Henrik , Hermann Helle Kirstine , Larsen Peter N. , Markussen Alice , Hogdall Estrid , Nielsen Dorte
Published: April 2019

Background: In case of response to chemotherapy, unresectable liver metastases from colorectal cancer can be converted to resectable and thereby obtain a chance of cure. The primary aim of this trial was to evaluate the response rate with intrahepatic oxaliplatin in combination with systemic 5-FU +/– cetuximab. Secondary aims were to evaluate the conversion rate from unresectable to resectable liver metastases, median progression-free survival, median overall survival, and toxicity. Methods: Forty-five chemo-naïve patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer were treated in a prospective phase II trial. Calcium folinate and 5-FU were delivered systemically while oxaliplatin was delivered alternating between systemic and intrahepatic administration. When oxaliplatin was delivered intrahepatic­ally, infusion time was reduced to 10 min followed by embolic material. In patients with KRAS wild-type tumors, cetuximab was added. Results: The treatment was well tolerated and only pain in the liver and a mild increase in liver enzymes were observed after intrahepatic oxaliplatin. The patients obtained a response rate of 82%. Further, 58% converted from having unresectable to resectable liver metastases. The median overall survival and progression-free survival were 38.7 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 33.0–44.3) and 12.9 months (95% CI 10.2–15.6), respectively. Conclusions: Intrahepatic infusion of oxaliplatin in 10 min with systemic 5-FU to patients with chemo-naïve colorectal cancer is feasible and with low toxicity. A high response rate and long median overall survival were obtained.
Liquid Biopsy of Extracellular Microvesicles Predicts Future Major Ischemic Events in Genetically Characterized Familial Hypercholesterolemia Patients
Authors: Suades Rosa , Padró Teresa , Crespo Javier , Sionis Alessandro , Alonso Rodrigo , Mata Pedro , Badimon Lina
Published: April 2019

Objective—

Circulating microvesicles (cMVs) exert regulatory roles in atherothrombosis. Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) that are at high risk for premature cardiovascular events (CVEs) have previously shown high levels of cMVs related to disease severity. However, much remains unknown about their value as markers of CVE. We sought to investigate the prognostic cMV signature for future major CVE presentation in patients with FH.

Approach and Results—

Liquid biopsies from genetically characterized patients with FH from the SAFEHEART (Spanish Familial Hypercholesterolemia Cohort Study)-cohort without clinical manifestation of disease at entry that were going to suffer a CVE within a mean period of 3.3±2.6 years postsampling (CVE, N=92) and from age/cardiovascular risk factor/treatment-matched patients with FH that did not suffer an event within the same time-period (non-CVE, N=48) were investigated. cMVs were phenotyped by flow cytometry to identify activated parental cells. Patients with CVE had higher number of overall procoagulant annexin V
+
-cMVs than non-CVE (
P
<0.05). Pan-leukocyte-derived and neutrophil-derived cMVs, as well as activated platelet-derived cMVs, were significantly higher in patients with CVE. Baseline number of cMVs derived from lymphocytes, neutrophils, and activated platelets were positively associated with mortality at follow-up (
P
<0.05). Patient-risk calculated by classical cardiovascular risk-factor scores did not correlate with cMVs. Inclusion of the cMV signature into the SAFEHEART risk model for patients with FH for the prediction of ischemic events increased the area under the curve from 0.603±0.050 to 0.768±0.042 (
P
<0.005).

Conclusions—

Patients with FH who are going to suffer a CVE within a mean period of 3.3 years, despite being treated according to guidelines, have ongoing innate immune cell and platelet activation. The proposed cMV signature is a prognostic marker for accelerated atherosclerosis and clinical event presentation in patients with FH.
Maternal Viral Infection and Risk of Fetal Congenital Heart Diseases: A Meta‐Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Ye Ziwei , Wang Lesan , Yang Tubao , Chen Lizhang , Wang Tingting , Chen Letao , Zhao Lijuan , Zhang Senmao , Zheng Zan , Luo Liu , Qin Jiabi
Published: April 2019

Background

At present, the association between maternal viral infection and risk of congenital heart diseases (
CHD
) in offspring is uncertain; additionally, a complete overview is missing. A meta‐analysis of observational studies was performed to address the question of whether women who had a history of viral infection in early pregnancy were at an increased risk of
CHD
in offspring, compared with mothers without viral infection.

Methods and Results

Unrestricted searches were conducted, with an end date parameter of July 15, 2018, of PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane Libraries, and Chinese databases, to identify studies that met prestated inclusion criteria. Seventeen case‐control studies involving 67 233 women were included for analysis. Both fixed‐effects models (odds ratio [OR], 1.83; 95%
CI
, 1.58–2.12;
P
<0.0001) and random‐effects models (
OR
, 2.28; 95%
CI
, 1.54–3.36;
P
<0.0001) suggested that mothers who had a history of viral infection in early pregnancy experienced a significantly increased risk of developing
CHD
in offspring. For specific viral infections, the risk of developing
CHD
in offspring was significantly increased among mothers with rubella virus (OR, 3.49, 95% CI, 2.39–5.11 in fixed‐effects models; and OR, 3.54; 95% CI, 1.75–7.15 in random‐effects models) and cytomegalovirus (OR, 3.95; 95% CI, 1.87–8.36 in fixed‐effects models) in early pregnancy; however, other maternal viral infections in early pregnancy were not significantly associated with risk of
CHD
in offspring. Sensitivity analysis yielded consistent results. No evidence of publication bias was observed.

Conclusions

Although the role of potential bias and evidence of heterogeneity should be carefully evaluated, the present study suggests that maternal viral infection is significantly associated with risk of
CHD
in offspring.
“Yugoslavia's Help Was Extraordinary”: Political and Material Assistance from Belgrade to the MPLA in Its Rise to Power, 1961–1975
Authors: Čavoški Jovan
Published: April 2019

Based on newly declassified documents from former Yugoslav archives, this article reconstructs the process of material and political assistance that was rendered to the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) by Yugoslavia throughout the 1960s and into the 1970s until the time of Angola's independence and the beginning of the Angolan civil war in 1975. The archival evidence demonstrates that Yugoslavia's assistance to the MPLA guerrillas was one of the crucial factors that enabled the organization not only to survive the vicissitudes of international politics, but also to preserve and stabilize its strength for the final phase of the power struggle in Angola.
A new subspecies and taxonomic notes on Passiflora L. (Passifloraceae) in Brazilian Amazon, Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: KOCH ANA KELLY , ENGELS MATHIAS ERICH , REIS NILMÁRIA NATÁLIA VERAS , SOARES-LOPES CÉLIA REGINA ARAÚJO
Published: April 2019

A new subspecies of Passiflora garckei (Passifloraceae) in Brazilian Amazon is described and illustrated. Furthermore, the lectotype of P. gardneri is herein designated and its geographical distribution is expanded to the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil.
Three new species of Labomimus Sharp (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) from Taiwan, China, with an updated key for L. shibatai Sawada-group
Authors: ZHANG YU-QING , YIN ZI-WEI
Published: April 2019

The Labomimus Sharp fauna in Taiwan is represented by a single species. In this paper, three new species are described and illustrated: L. dadongmontis sp. nov., L. dilaticeps sp. nov., and L. sugayai sp. nov. The key to species of the L. shibatai Sawada-group is updated to accommodate the two new species placed in this group.
A review of the Iranian species of genus Iconella Mason (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Microgastrinae) with description of two new species
Authors: ZARGAR MOHAMMAD , GUPTA ANKITA , TALEBI ALI ASGHAR , FARAHANI SAMIRA
Published: April 2019

The present study was carried out in the Khuzestan province of Iran during 2016−2017. In total, five species of the genus Iconella were collected and identified, of which two new species are described and illustrated: Iconella mongashtensis Zargar & Gupta sp. nov., and I. similus Zargar & Gupta sp. nov. One species, Iconella meruloides (Nixon 1965), is recorded for the first time from Iran and two species, Iconella myeloenta and I. subcamilla, are new provincial records. The number of Iconella species in Iran is now raised to eight. An identification key to all Iranian species of the genus Iconella is provided.
Numerical simulation of impact on wind load due to mirror gap effect for parabolic dish solar concentrator
Authors: Yu Mingguo , Gong Jinke , Cai Hao
Published: April 2019

Parabolic dish solar concentrators are currently one of the most efficient solar technologies for the production of electricity. These systems are usually located in an open terrain where strong winds may be found and could affect their stability and optical performance. Mirror gap size has direct relation to thermal efficiency and construction cost. A tiny deformation of the concentrator under the action of a strong wind affects the focusing accuracy and increases the requirement of the structural strength of the dish. In this paper, different gap sizes (0–60 mm) between the mirrors of the dish are studied by numerical simulation. The results show that wind load on concentrator is sensitive to operation position, such as 30° pitch and 60° yaw angle. The gap causes an uneven distribution of the mean pressure coefficient on each facet, thereby increasing the risk of wind-induced vibration at the mirror edge. Besides, the drag coefficient on a parabolic dish increases along with the increase of the gap size between 0 and 60 mm when the dish is at the wind-resistant unfavorable conditions. For the overall wind force on a dish in the state of maximum drag force operation angle case, the mirror gap can reduce the wind force by about 3.54% with the gap size increased, which is mainly due to the significant reduction of the windward area. Therefore, the mirror gap should take as small a size as possible.
Trace Element Analysis of Cancerous and Non-cancerous Breast Tissues of African Women in Southwest Nigeria Using Particle-Induced X-ray Emission Technique
Authors: Olaiya David O , Alatise Olusegun I , Oketayo Oyebamiji O , Abiye Olawale E , Obianjunwa Eusebius I , Balogun Fatai A
Published: April 2019

In this study, we applied particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectroscopy to investigate the levels of trace elements in breast tissues and whole blood (cancerous and non-cancerous) of selected African women in Ile-Ife, Southwest Nigeria. Freeze-dried and homogenized specimens obtained through mastectomy from clinically diagnosed patients were made into 11-mm-diameter pellets. The pellets were irradiated with 2.5 MeV proton beam energy from a 1.7 MV 5SDH Tandem accelerator. The PIXE analytical system was calibrated with certified reference matrices of Bovine Liver and Animal Blood: NIST 1577a and IAEA-A-13, respectively. A total of 23 elements: Na, K, Ca, Cl, S, Al, P, Si, Zn, Pb, Br, Rb, Zr, Se, Sr, Mn, V, Ti, Cu, Fe, Ni, Cr, and Mg were detected. The results indicated that the levels were within 0.9-5288 and 0.6-2320 ppm in breast tissues and 0.3-17228 and 2.0-2475 ppm in the whole blood of cancerous and non-cancerous subjects, respectively. At the .05 level of significance, significant differences exist between these levels in the cancerous and non-cancerous breast tissues ( t = 0.008) as well as the whole blood ( t = 0.041). The results gave the baseline concentration of the observed trace elements in the normal and malignant subjects and indicated PIXE as a powerful tool for such investigation.
The variant with the absence of the superior petrosal venous and sinus: A potential pitfall of transvenous balloon-assisted embolisation of Borden type II transverse-sigmoid dural arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Lv Xianli , Jiang Chuhan , Liang Shikai , Wang James
Published: April 2019

We describe a patient with Borden type II transverse-sigmoid dural arteriovenous fistula. On the venous phase of the left vertebral artery injection, there was no superior petrosal veins and sinus on the side of lesion. After transvenous balloon-assisted Onyx embolisation, the patient developed extensive venous infarction from venous occlusion. This report calls attention to a highly unusual variant in which the superior petrosal veins and sinus are absent, and the cerebellar veins will be drained by tributaries of the bridging veins in this circumstance. In such circumstances, occlusion of the bridging vein on the tentorial cerebellar surface may lead to complications during transverse-sigmoid dural arteriovenous fistula embolisation.
Musical commemorations and grand narratives: The case of the oratorio “Srebrenički Inferno” in post-genocide Bosnia
Authors: Pitic Badema
Published: April 2019

In the last 20 years, Bosnia-Herzegovina has witnessed the creation of a grand narrative about the Srebrenica genocide. Affecting perceptions, renditions, and understandings of this event, this grand narrative promotes a specific meaning and interpretation of the war in Bosnia and of Bosniak suffering. Thanks to the grand narrative, particular tropes of the story of the Srebrenica genocide have come to the fore in its commemoration, also affecting the existing artistic memorial works. In this article, I trace the effects of the grand narrative on commemorative music dedicated to the Srebrenica genocide by focusing on the oratorio “Srebrenički Inferno.” By analyzing the oratorio in relation to the grand narrative, I argue that this musical piece is not only influenced by, but also helps to maintain and reinforce, this dominant story about the genocide that represents an important segment of politically advantageous official collective memory and history of the war and genocide among Bosniaks.
A genome-wide association study implicatesNR2F2in lymphangioleiomyomatosis pathogenesis
Authors: Kim Wonji , Giannikou Krinio , Dreier John R. , Lee Sanghun , Tyburczy Magdalena E. , Silverman Edwin K. , Radzikowska Elżbieta , Wu Shulin , Wu Chin-Lee , Henske Elizabeth P. , Hunninghake Gary , Carel Havi , Roman Antonio , Pujana Miquel Angel , Moss Joel , Won Sungho , Kwiatkowski David J.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) occurs either associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) or as sporadic disease (S-LAM). Risk factors for development of S-LAM are unknown. We hypothesised that DNA sequence variants outside ofTSC2/TSC1might be associated with susceptibility for S-LAM and performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS).

Methods

Genotyped and imputed data on 5 426 936 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 426 S-LAM subjects were compared, using conditional logistic regression, with similar data from 852 females from COPDGene in a matched case–control design. For replication studies, genotypes for 196 non-Hispanic White female S-LAM subjects were compared with three different sets of controls. RNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry analyses were also performed.

Results

Two noncoding genotyped SNPs met genome-wide significance: rs4544201 and rs2006950 (p=4.2×10−8and 6.1×10−9, respectively), which are in the same 35 kb linkage disequilibrium block on chromosome 15q26.2. This association was replicated in an independent cohort.NR2F2(nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group F member 2), a nuclear receptor and transcription factor, was the only nearby protein-coding gene.NR2F2expression was higher by RNA sequencing in one abdominal LAM tumour and four kidney angiomyolipomas, a LAM-related tumour, compared with all cancers from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Immunohistochemistry showed strong nuclear expression in both LAM and angiomyolipoma tumours.

Conclusions

SNPs on chromosome 15q26.2 are associated with S-LAM, and chromatin and expression data suggest that this association may occur through effects onNR2F2expression, which potentially plays an important role in S-LAM development.
NR3C1 gene polymorphisms are associated with high-altitude pulmonary edema in Han Chinese
Authors: Yang Yingzhong , Du Hui , Li Yuhong , Guan Wei , Tang Feng , Ga Qin , Ge Ri-Li
Published: April 2019

Background

High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) is a life-threatening form of non-cardiogenic edema which occurs in unacclimatized individuals after rapid ascent to high altitude. NR3C1 gene encodes for glucocorticoid receptor (GR) which plays an important role in stress and inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the association of NR3C1 polymorphisms with the susceptibility to HAPE in Han Chinese.

Methods

The 30 SNPs in the NR3C1 gene were genotyped by the Sequenom MassARRAY SNP assay in 133 HAPE patients (HAPE-p) and 135 matched Han Chinese resistant to HAPE (HAPE-r). The genotypic and allele frequencies, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated, respectively.

Results

The 12 SNPs showed a significant difference between the HAPE-p and HAPE-r groups. In allelic model analysis, we found that the allele “A” of rs17287745, rs17209237, rs17209251, rs6877893, and rs1866388; the allele “C” of rs6191, rs6188, and rs2918417; the allele “T” of rs33388 and rs4634384; and the allele “G” of rs41423247 and rs10052957 were associated with increased the risk of HAPE. In the genetic model analysis, we found that rs17287745, rs6191, rs6188, rs33388, rs2918417, rs6877893, rs1866388, rs41423247, rs4634384, and rs10052957 were relevant to the increased HAPE risk under the dominant model.

In addition, the haplotype AACACTCAAGTG of the 12 SNPs was detected to be significantly associated with HAPE risk (OR = 2.044, 95%CI = 1.339~3.120, P = 0.0008), while the haplotype GGAGCACGACCG was associated with the decreased risk of HAPE (OR = 0.573, 95% CI = 0.333~0.985, P = 0.0422).

Conclusions

Our findings provide new evidence for the association between SNPs in NR3C1 and an increased risk of HAPE in the Chinese population. NR3C1 polymorphisms are associated with the susceptibility to HAPE in Han Chinese.
An improved ileal conduit surgery for bladder cancer with fewer complications
Authors: Li Zhiyong , Liu Zhuowei , Yao Kai , Qin Zike , Han Hui , Li Yonghong , Dong Pei , Ye Yunlin , Wang Yanjun , Wu Zhiming , Zhang Zhiling , Zhou Fangjian
Published: April 2019

Background

Radical cystectomy and urinary diversion remains the standard surgical treatment for patients with muscle‐invasive or high‐risk or recurrent non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer. Although this approach prolongs patient survival remarkably, there are postoperative complications associated with urinary diversion. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of modified ileal conduit surgery for reducing early and late stoma‐ and ureteroileal anastomosis‐related complications, as compared with conventional ileal conduit urinary diversion.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the clinical data of bladder cancer patients treated with radical cystectomy and ileal conduit urinary diversion at Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center between January 1, 2000 and June 30, 2016. Ileal conduit was created by the conventional or a modified technique. The clinicopathologic features of the conventional and the modified ileal conduit groups were compared using the t test and the Chi square test. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and multivariable Cox regression analysis were performed to determine the odds of developing stoma‐ and ureteroileal anastomosis‐related complications in the two groups.

Results

145 and 100 patients underwent the modified and conventional ileal conduit surgery, respectively. The two groups were comparable with regard to clinicopathologic features. The rate of stoma‐related complications was significantly lower in the modified ileal conduit group than in the conventional ileal conduit group (0.7% vs. 17.0%, P < 0.001). No late stoma‐related complications were seen in the modified ileal conduit group, but were seen in 13 (13.0%) patients in the conventional ileal conduit group. The rate of ureteroileal anastomosis‐related complications was significantly lower in the modified ileal conduit group than in the conventional ileal conduit group (4.8% vs. 15.0%, P = 0.001). In multivariable analyses, the modified ileal conduit group was significantly less likely to develop stoma‐ (odds ratio [OR] = 0.024, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.003–0.235; P = 0.001) or ureteroileal anastomosis‐related complications (OR = 0.141, 95% CI 0.042–0.476; P = 0.002) than the conventional ileal conduit group.

Conclusions

Our modified surgical technique for ileal conduit urinary diversion may be effective for reducing early and late complications related to the stoma and the ureteroileal anastomosis. Prospective randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm our results.
Study of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Risk Factors and Early Detection of Noncommunicable Diseases Among Rural Women in India
Authors: Mahajan Manoj , Naik Navami , Jain Kirti , Patira Nilesh , Prasad Sangita , Mogri Sushma , Muwonge Richard , Lucas Eric , Faruq Faeeza , Sankaranarayanan Rengaswamy , Iyer Swami , Basu Partha
Published: April 2019

PURPOSE

In recognition of the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, we assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of rural women in low-resourced countries toward common NCDs and the barriers they face in receiving NCD early detection services.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study was conducted in a rural block of India using the Rapid Assessment and Response Evaluation ethnographic assessment, which included in-depth interviews of key health officials; focus group discussions with women, men, teachers, and health workers from the block; and a knowledge, attitudes, and practices questionnaire survey. The home-based survey was conducted among 1,192 women selected from 50 villages of the block using a two-stage randomization process and stratified to 30- to 44-year and 45- to 60-year age-groups.

RESULTS

Our study revealed low awareness among women with regard to tobacco as a risk factor; hypertension, diabetes, and cancer as major health threats; and the importance of their early detection. Only 4.8% of women reported to have ever consumed tobacco, and many others consumed smokeless tobacco without knowing that the preparations contained tobacco. Only 27.3% and 11.5% of women had any knowledge about breast and cervical cancer, respectively, and only a few could describe at least one common symptom of either cancer. Self-reported diagnosis of hypertension and diabetes was significantly lower than the reported national prevalence. Only 0.9% and 1.3% of women reported having had a breast examination or gynecologic checkup, respectively, in the past 5 years. Low female empowerment and misconceptions were major barriers.

CONCLUSION

Barriers need to be addressed to improve uptake of NCD early detection services.
Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of Metastatic Non–Clear-Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma to Identify Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Carlo Maria I. , Khan Nabeela , Zehir Ahmet , Patil Sujata , Ged Yasser , Redzematovic Almedina , Coskey Devyn T. , Hyman David M. , Ladanyi Marc , Chen Ying-Bei , Robson Mark , Hakimi A. Ari , Lee Chung-Han , Feldman Darren R. , Gao Jianjiong , Chakravarty Debyani , Motzer Robert J. , Voss Martin H.
Published: April 2019

PURPOSE

Non–clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (nccRCC) encompasses approximately 20% of renal cell carcinomas and includes subtypes that vary in clinical and molecular biology. Compared with clear cell renal cell carcinoma, nccRCC demonstrates limited sensitivity to conventional vascular endothelial growth factor– and mammalian target of rapamycin–directed agents, indicating a need for better therapies. Characterizing the genomic landscape of metastatic nccRCC variants may help define novel therapeutic strategies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed tumor tissue from patients with metastatic nccRCC who consented to genomic analysis of their tumor and germline DNA. A hybridization capture–based assay was used to identify single nucleotide variants and small insertions and deletions across more than 340 cancer-associated genes with germline comparison. Clinical actionability of somatic mutations was assessed using OncoKB levels of evidence. Microsatellite instability (MSI) in the tumor was investigated.

RESULTS

Of 116 patients included in the analysis, 57 (49%) presented with de novo metastatic disease, and 59 (51%) presented with localized disease that later metastasized. Subtype classifications included unclassified (n = 41; 35%), papillary (n = 26; 22%), chromophobe (n = 17; 15%), translocation associated (n = 13; 11%), and other (n = 19; 16%). Of all tumors, 15 (13%) had putative driver somatic alterations amenable to targeted therapies, including alterations in MET, TSC1/2, and an ALK translocation. Of 45 patients who had germline testing, 11 (24%) harbored mutations, seven of which could potentially guide therapy. Of 115 available tumors for analysis, two (1.7%) had high and six (5%) had intermediate MSI status.

CONCLUSION

The mutation profiles of metastatic nccRCC vary by subtype. Comprehensive analysis of somatic mutations, germline mutations, and MSI, interpreted via an annotated precision oncology knowledge base, identified potentially targetable alterations in 22% of patients, which merits additional investigation.
United to Be Dispersed
Authors: Woo Jung-Ah
Published: April 2019

This article analyzes the various practices of the WAWA Project as a case study of community-based art after the Great East Japan Earthquake on 11 March 2011 (“3.11”). Organized by Masato Nakamura (b. 1963), the Tokyo-based artist, college professor, and director of an artist collective commandN, the WAWA Project is an ongoing project that initiates, mobilizes, promotes, and connects local residents and civic groups in disaster-stricken areas for their regeneration efforts. In the current discourse of contemporary art, the WAWA Project can be discussed within the framework of relational aesthetics, in the sense that the works of art function as a platform through which the individuals are engaged collectively with particular experiences and social circumstances so as to create a communal unity. This conceptualization of relational aesthetics becomes theoretically impoverished and politically suspect when combined with Japan's changed sociopolitical environment in the wake of 3.11. When the state exploits the rhetoric of communal solidarity, it seriously undermines democracy, threatens autonomous individuals, and blocks egalitarian social structure instead of furthering it. I argue that the dynamic, creative, and contestatory networks and initiatives that WAWA Project has promoted, which are distinct from the more formalized community associations and artistic projects, will allow us to articulate alternative ways of challenging conventional conceptions of community and social order.