bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miRNAs-Based Molecular Signature for KRAS Mutated and Wild Type Colorectal Cancer: An Explorative Study
Authors: Milanesi Elena , Dobre Maria , Bucuroiu Alina Ioana , Herlea Vlad , Manuc Teodora Ecaterina , Salvi Alessandro , De Petro Giuseppina , Manuc Mircea , Becheanu Gabriel
Published: June 2020

microRNAs (miRNAs) have been proposed as promising molecular biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and responsive therapeutic targets in different types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we evaluated the expression levels of 84 cancer-associated miRNAs in a cohort of 39 human samples comprising 13 peritumoral and 26 tumoral tissues from surgical specimens of CRC patients. KRAS mutations were detected in 11 tumoral samples. In a first analysis, we found 5 miRNAs (miR-215-5p, miR-9-5p, miR-138-5p, miR378a-3p, and miR-150-5p) that were significantly downregulated and one upregulated (miR-135b-5p) in tumoral tissues compared with the peritumoral tissues. Furthermore, by comparing miRNA profile between KRAS mutated CRC tissues respect to wild type CRC tissues, we found 7 miRNA (miR-27b-3p, miR-191-5p, miR-let7d-5p, miR-15b-5p, miR-98-5p, miR-10a-5p, and miR-149-5p) downregulated in KRAS mutated condition. In conclusion, we have identified a panel of miRNAs that specifically distinguish CRC tissues from peritumoral tissue and a different set of miRNAs specific for CRC with KRAS mutations. These findings may contribute to the discovering of new molecular biomarkers with clinic relevance and might shed light on novel molecular aspects of CRC.
Forecasting Urban Rail Transit Vehicle Interior Noise and Its Applications in Railway Alignment Design
Authors: Wang Yifeng , Wang Ping , Li Zihan , Chen Zhengxing , He Qing
Published: June 2020

In this study, a data-driven interior noise prediction model is developed for vehicles on an urban rail transit system based on random forest (RF) and a vehicle/track coupling dynamic model (VTCDM). The proposed prediction model can evaluate and optimize the sustainability of railway alignment from the perspective of interior noise. First, a data collection framework via embedded sensors of onboard smartphones was developed. Then, for establishing the mapping relationship between the dynamic responses of the car body and interior noise, the collected dataset was fed to the RF. Parameter, error distribution, and feature importance analyses were conducted for evaluating and optimizing the performance of the RF. With the optimized parameters, the probability of prediction errors being within 5 dB was 86.9%. Next, the VTCDM was established using an existing industry multibody simulation tool and verified through a comparison between the simulated and field dynamic responses. Finally, a case study that extends the application of this interior noise prediction model to railway alignment design is presented.
Risk Stratification in Advanced Biliary Tract Cancer: Validation of the A.L.A.N. Score
Authors: Müller Lukas , Mähringer-Kunz Aline , Jungmann Florian , Tanyildizi Yasemin , Bartsch Fabian , Czauderna Carolin , Düber Christoph , Galle Peter R. , Weinmann Arndt , Kloeckner Roman , Hahn Felix
Published: June 2020

Background. In addition to the clinical parameters, immune-inflammatory markers have emerged as prognostic factors in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (ABC). The recently proposed A.L.A.N. score combines both in an easily applicable manner. The aim of this study was to perform the first external evaluation of this score. Methods. All patients from our clinical registry unit who had unresectable ABC underwent first-line chemotherapy from 2006 to 2018 and met the inclusion criteria of the original study were included (n =  74). The A.L.A.N. score comprises the following parameters: actual neutrophil count, lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio, albumin, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (A.L.A.N.). Univariate and multivariate hazard regression analyses were performed to evaluate the score’s parameters regarding overall survival (OS). The concordance index (C-index) and integrated Brier score (IBS) were calculated to evaluate the score’s predictive performance. Results. Low, intermediate, and high A.L.A.N. scores corresponded to median OS of 21.9, 11.4, and 4.3 months, respectively, resulting in a significant risk stratification (log-rank p=0.017). In multivariate analysis, a high-risk A.L.A.N. score remained an independent predictor of poor survival (p=0.016). Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was not a significant factor for poor OS in the analyses in the cohort. The score’s ability to predict individual patient survival was only moderate with a C-index of 0.63. Conclusions. The A.L.A.N. score can be used to identify risk groups with a poor prognosis prior to the start of chemotherapy. However, the ability of the score to predict individual patient outcome was only moderate; thus, it may only serve as a minor component in the complex interdisciplinary discussion.
The MD Anderson Prostate Cancer Patient-derived Xenograft Series (MDA PCa PDX) Captures the Molecular Landscape of Prostate Cancer and Facilitates Marker-driven Therapy Development
Authors: Palanisamy Nallasivam , Yang Jun , Shepherd Peter D.A. , Li-Ning-Tapia Elsa M. , Labanca Estefania , Manyam Ganiraju C. , Ravoori Murali K. , Kundra Vikas , Araujo John C. , Efstathiou Eleni , Pisters Louis L. , Wan Xinhai , Wang Xuemei , Vazquez Elba S. , Aparicio Ana M. , Carskadon Shannon L. , Tomlins Scott A. , Kunju Lakshmi P. , Chinnaiyan Arul M. , Broom Bradley M. , Logothetis Christopher J. , Troncoso Patricia , Navone Nora M.
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Advances in prostate cancer lag behind other tumor types partly due to the paucity of models reflecting key milestones in prostate cancer progression. Therefore, we develop clinically relevant prostate cancer models.

Experimental Design:

Since 1996, we have generated clinically annotated patient-derived xenografts (PDXs; the MDA PCa PDX series) linked to specific phenotypes reflecting all aspects of clinical prostate cancer.

Results:

We studied two cell line–derived xenografts and the first 80 PDXs derived from 47 human prostate cancer donors. Of these, 47 PDXs derived from 22 donors are working models and can be expanded either as cell lines (MDA PCa 2a and 2b) or PDXs. The histopathologic, genomic, and molecular characteristics (androgen receptor, ERG, and PTEN loss) maintain fidelity with the human tumor and correlate with published findings. PDX growth response to mouse castration and targeted therapy illustrate their clinical utility. Comparative genomic hybridization and sequencing show significant differences in oncogenic pathways in pairs of PDXs derived from different areas of the same tumor. We also identified a recurrent focal deletion in an area that includes the speckle-type POZ protein-like (SPOPL) gene in PDXs derived from seven human donors of 28 studied (25%). SPOPL is a SPOP paralog, and SPOP mutations define a molecular subclass of prostate cancer. SPOPLdeletions are found in 7% of The Cancer Genome Atlas prostate cancers, which suggests that our cohort is a reliable platform for targeted drug development.

Conclusions:

The MDA PCa PDX series is a dynamic resource that captures the molecular landscape of prostate cancers progressing under novel treatments and enables optimization of prostate cancer–specific, marker-driven therapy.
FEATURES OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPETENCE APPROACH TO THE STUDY OF CLINICAL ANATOMY IN MEDICAL SCHOOL
Authors: Ulishchenko V. V. , Cherkasov V. H. , Ihnatishchev M. R.
Published: June 2020

The article analyzes the methodical problems of teaching the clinical anatomy in medical schools, discusses the peculiarities of the organization of competency-based training in the unity of classroom and independent work of students. Emphasis is placed on the existence of some discrepancy between the expectations and the learning outcomes, which is related to the students’ insufficiently high educational motivation, not always appropriate application of methods and techniques by the teachers. High educational results are possible with the joint efforts of all subjects of education.

Interviews and questionnaires of students and teachers to identify reserves of improving the quality of knowledge (100 respondents) showed that the leading form of acquiring new knowledge is an interactive lecture. The perception of theoretical material depends on the structure, the visual richness of such lecture. The second place were given for practical work (models, albums, videos, etc.) and third – for independent work (solving anatomical problems, preparation of individual and group projects). Provided the students are internally motivated, the tasks are systematic and visible, these kinds of work will deepen knowledge and ability competencies (analyze, differentiate, organize). The authors’ attention is focused on the application of such training methods as scribing, mnemonic schemes, compiling a descriptive story and more.
TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT STRATEGIES IN ONLINE FOREIGN LANGUAGES DISTANCE LEARNING
Authors: Beck Günter , Tsaryk O. M. , Rybina N. V.
Published: June 2020

The article deals with the leading strategies for organizing students’ learning and assessment in the distance teaching of foreign languages. The work analyzes available online teaching methods and forms, and the most optimal ways, types, and methods of assessing students’ work on the currently available online platforms. The authors claim that pedagogical approaches to teaching foreign languages constantly require the search for new tools that can bring an element of novelty to the educational process while simultaneously increasing the interest of applicants, especially during the current  (Covid-19) quarantine period.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF DOCTORS, MEMBERS OF THE SHEVCHENKO SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY IN LVIV TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF UKRAINIAN EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND LITERATURE (LATE XIX – EARLY XX CENTURY)
Authors: Bilavych H. V. , Bahriy М. А. , Bilavych І. V. , Savchuk B. P. , Fedchyshyn N. O.
Published: June 2020

The article analyzes the contribution of some Ukrainian doctors (who were also writers) of Halychyna in the development of education and science.  Scientific achievements of I. Horbachevskyi, Ya. Okunevskyi, S. Okunevska-Morachevska, Ye. Ozarkevych and others through the prism of activity of the Shevchenko Scientific Society in the early XX century. The contribution of Ye. Ozarkevych as the founder of Ukrainian medical science in Halychyna is emphasized. It is concluded that in the studied period, doctors-scientists were the authors of journalistic works and fiction.
THE MORAL PRINCIPLES FORMATION OF FUTURE DOCTORS DURING THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS
Authors: Humenna I. R. , Nakhaieva Ya. M.
Published: June 2020

The article reveals the issue of moral principles formation during professional education, the concept of moral characters of a specialist in the field of medicine as a system of moral qualities and actions.

The aim of humanitarian education is to form the future doctors’ needs for continuous education, development of general culture, formation of professional and communicative competence, legal consciousness, tolerance, humanity. In addition to the aesthetic, such training also has a moral impact on the younger generation of doctors, helping to understand the internal state of the patient. The importance of moral principles in the medical profession are found out. It is revealed that the principle of collegiality in medicine contributes to the development of professional and ethical culture of medical workers. Theoretical aspects of this problem are considered.
Las experiencias significativas como práctica educativa en la enseñanza de la comunicación en las organizaciones
Authors: Otálora Mónica Marión Cataño , Muñoz María Camila Fernández , Campos Bustamante Valentina
Published: June 2020

Este artículo se inscribe en el campo relacional de la educación/comunicación. Tuvo por objeto de estudio las prácticas educativas en la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de la comunicación en las organizaciones del Programa de Comunicación de la Universidad Javeriana (2007-2017). La investigación se realizó desde un enfoque cualitativo, tomando la entrevista y el análisis documental como técnicas de investigación. Se realizaron 15 entrevistas semiestructuradas a 11 comunicadores y a cuatro docentes; se revisaron ocho syllabus de asignaturas, con el fin de analizar las relaciones entre la práctica educativa denominada experiencias significativas y los procesos formativos.
Retratos da vida
Authors: Menezes Hugo Lenes
Published: June 2020

O Impressionismo não constitui estilo exclusivo das estéticas plásticas, pois outras manifestações artísticas da etapa finissecular oitocentista e da Modernidade são tocadas pela tendência. Na Belle Époque, praticamente todos os artistas, literários ou não, são-lhe tributários. Entre os literatos lusófonos, destacamos Raul Pompeia, o último Machado de Assis e Eça de Queirós; Graça Aranha e Adelino Magalhães; todos no gênero narrativo. De línguas estrangeiras e mesmo gênero, mencionamos Edmond e Jules Goncourt, a pintar descrições cromático-verbais; Marcel Proust e Thomas Wolfe, num memorialismo das sensações; e Henry James, da perspectiva do impreciso. No teatro, citamos Anton Tchekhov, identificado com uma filosofia do momento. Dessa maneira, no presente artigo, abordamos o gênero dramático, sobretudo na Modernidade, em relação à pintura impressionista, mais exatamente numa visada sobre criações tchekhovianas para representação no palco, e detemo-nos por fim, com mais vagar, numa abordagem da peça As três irmãs (1901), obra-prima universal do Impressionismo cênico.
Um Tchékhov tal, que nunca havíamos visto antes!
Authors: Marcançoli Cássia Regina Marconi
Published: June 2020

A partir da reflexão acerca das montagens e releituras cênicas das peças de Anton Tchékhov (1860-1904) ao longo do século XX, o presente artigo busca refletir sobre as releituras dramatúrgicas das peças do autor - surgidas principalmente na época da Perestroika e final da URSS - por dramaturgos russos contemporâneos, como Alekséi Slapóvski (1957-), Liudmila Petruchévskaia (1938-), Viktor Slávkin (1935-2014) e outros.
Recordações sobre L.A.Sulerjítski
Authors: Merino Daniela Simone Terehoff
Published: June 2020

Estas recordações foram escritas pelo ator russo Mikhail Tchékhov (1891-1955) após a morte de seu mestre teatral Leopold Antônovitch Sulerjítski (1872-1916). No decorrer do texto torna-se evidente a influência benéfica que o professor exerceu sobre a individualidade criadora de seu aluno. Também são trazidas à tona algumas das principais experiências vividas pelo ator dentro do pequeno espaço experimental conhecido como Primeiro Estúdio do Teatro de Arte de Moscou (TAM). A relevância destas recordações está não apenas em reafirmar as confluências existentes entre o mestre e seu aprendiz, como também em demonstrar o quanto o Primeiro Estúdio – inaugurado em 1912 pelo próprio Leopold Sulerjítski em parceria com o grande ator, diretor e pedagogo russo Konstantin Stanislávski (1863-1938) –, foi um dos principais impulsionadores da jornada artística posterior de Mikhail Tchékhov.
Ironia e seriedade no romance russo
Authors: Cabral Jimmy Sudario
Published: June 2020

O artigo considera que as análises de Kierkegaard da ironia romântica carregam um potencial crítico e explicativo capaz de lançar luz sobre o significado filosófico e estético da obra romanesca de Dostoiévski. Considerando o juízo de Bakhtin, que reconheceu no romance polifônico de Dostoiévski uma expressão de superação do solipsismo filosófico do romantismo, o artigo propõe que o conceito kierkegaardiano de “ironia dominada”, presente na última parte da sua dissertação sobre O conceito de ironia, pode ser utilizado como uma chave de interpretação da estética de Dostoiévski, bem como de seu diagnóstico e de sua tentativa de superação do niilismo estético dos românticos.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Impact of Heart Failure on Prognosis Compared to Other Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Zareini Bochra , Blanche Paul , D’Souza Maria , Elmegaard Malik Mariam , Nørgaard Caroline Holm , Selmer Christian , Gislason Gunnar , Kristensen Søren Lund , Køber Lars , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Schou Morten , Lamberts Morten
Published: June 2020

Background:

Heart failure (HF) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) has received growing attention. We examined the effect of HF development on prognosis compared with other cardiovascular or renal diagnoses in patients with T2D.

Methods and Results:

Patients with new T2D diagnosis patients were identified between 1998 and 2015 through Danish nationwide registers. At yearly landmark timepoints after T2D diagnosis, we estimated the 5-year risks of death, 5-year risk ratios, and decrease in lifespan within 5 years associated with the development of HF, ischemic heart disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and chronic kidney disease. A total of 153 403 patients with newly diagnosed T2D were followed for a median of 9.7 years (interquartile range, 5.8–13.9) during which 48 087 patients died. The 5-year risk ratio of death associated with HF development 5 years after T2D diagnosis was 3 times higher (CI, 2.9–3.1) than patients free of diagnoses (CI, 2.9–3.1). Five-year risk ratios were lower for ischemic heart disease (1.3 [1.3–1.4]), stroke (2.2 [2.1–2.2]), chronic kidney disease (1.7 [1.7–1.8]), and peripheral artery disease (2.3 [2.3–2.4]). The corresponding decrease in lifespan within 5 years when compared with patients free of diagnoses (in months) was HF 11.7 (11.6–11.8), ischemic heart disease 1.6 (1.5–1.7), stroke 6.4 (6.3–6.5), chronic kidney disease 4.4 (4.3–4.6), and peripheral artery disease 6.9 (6.8–7.0). HF in combination with any other diagnosis imposed the greatest risk of death and decrease in life span compared with other combinations. Supplemental analysis led to similar results when stratified according to age, sex, and comorbidity status, and inclusion period.

Conclusions:

HF development, at any year since T2D diagnosis, was associated with the highest 5-year absolute and relative risk of death, and decrease in lifespan within 5 years, when compared with development of other cardiovascular or renal diagnoses.
Prevalence of ECGs Exceeding Thresholds for ST‐Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Apparently Healthy Individuals: The Role of Ethnicity
Authors: ter Haar C. Cato , Kors Jan A. , Peters Ron J. G. , Tanck Michael W. T. , Snijder Marieke B. , Maan Arie C. , Swenne Cees A. , van den Born Bert‐Jan H. , de Jong Jonas S. S. G. , Macfarlane Peter W. , Postema Pieter G.
Published: June 2020

Background

Early prehospital recognition of critical conditions such as ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has prognostic relevance. Current international electrocardiographic STEMI thresholds are predominantly based on individuals of Western European descent. However, because of ethnic electrocardiographic variability both in health and disease, there is a need to reevaluate diagnostic ST‐segment elevation thresholds for different populations. We hypothesized that fulfillment of ST‐segment elevation thresholds of STEMI criteria (STE‐ECGs) in apparently healthy individuals is ethnicity dependent.

Methods and Results

HELIUS (Healthy Life in an Urban Setting) is a multiethnic cohort study including 10 783 apparently healthy subjects of 6 different ethnicities (African Surinamese, Dutch, Ghanaian, Moroccan, South Asian Surinamese, and Turkish). Prevalence of STE‐ECGs across ethnicities, sexes, and age groups was assessed with respect to the 2 international STEMI thresholds: sex and age specific versus sex specific. Mean prevalence of STE‐ECGs was 2.8% to 3.4% (age/sex‐specific and sex‐specific thresholds, respectively), although with large ethnicity‐dependent variability. Prevalences in Western European Dutch were 2.3% to 3.0%, but excessively higher in young (<40 years) Ghanaian males (21.7%–27.5%) and lowest in older (≥40 years) Turkish females (0.0%). Ethnicity (sub‐Saharan African origin) and other variables (eg, younger age, male sex, high QRS voltages, or anterolateral early repolarization pattern) were positively associated with STE‐ECG occurrence, resulting in subgroups with >45% STE‐ECGs.

Conclusions

The accuracy of diagnostic tests partly relies on background prevalence in healthy individuals. In apparently healthy subjects, there is a highly variable ethnicity‐dependent prevalence of ECGs with ST‐segment elevations exceeding STEMI thresholds. This has potential consequences for STEMI evaluations in individuals who are not of Western European descent, putatively resulting in adverse outcomes with both over‐ and underdiagnosis of STEMI.
Sex‐Based Differences in Unrecognized Myocardial Infarction
Authors: van der Ende M. Yldau , Juarez‐Orozco Luis Eduardo , Waardenburg Ingmar , Lipsic Erik , Schurer Remco A. J. , van der Werf Hindrik W. , Benjamin Emelia J. , van Veldhuisen Dirk Jan , Snieder Harold , van der Harst Pim
Published: June 2020

Background

Myocardial infarction is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in both men and women. Atypical or the absence of symptoms, more prevalent among women, may contribute to unrecognized myocardial infarctions and missed opportunities for preventive therapies. The aim of this research is to investigate sex‐based differences of undiagnosed myocardial infarction in the general population.

Methods and Results

In the Lifelines Cohort Study, all individuals ≥18 years with a normal baseline ECG were followed from baseline visit till first follow‐up visit (≈5 years, n=97 203). Individuals with infarct‐related changes between baseline and follow‐up ECGs were identified. The age‐ and sex‐specific incidence rates were calculated and sex‐specific cardiac symptoms and predictors of unrecognized myocardial infarction were determined. Follow‐up ECG was available after a median of 3.8 (25th and 75th percentile: 3.0–4.6) years. During follow‐up, 198 women experienced myocardial infarction (incidence rate 1.92 per 1000 persons‐years) compared with 365 men (incidence rate 3.30;
P
<0.001 versus women). In 59 (30%) women, myocardial infarction was unrecognized compared with 60 (16%) men (
P
<0.001 versus women). Individuals with unrecognized myocardial infarction less often reported specific cardiac symptoms compared with individuals with recognized myocardial infarction. Predictors of unrecognized myocardial infarction were mainly hypertension, smoking, and higher blood glucose level.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of myocardial infarctions are unrecognized, especially in women. Opportunities for secondary preventive therapies remain underutilized if myocardial infarction is unrecognized.
Neural Correlates of Fixated Low- and High-level Scene Properties during Active Scene Viewing
Authors: Henderson John M. , Goold Jessica E. , Choi Wonil , Hayes Taylor R.
Published: June 2020

During real-world scene perception, viewers actively direct their attention through a scene in a controlled sequence of eye fixations. During each fixation, local scene properties are attended, analyzed, and interpreted. What is the relationship between fixated scene properties and neural activity in the visual cortex? Participants inspected photographs of real-world scenes in an MRI scanner while their eye movements were recorded. Fixation-related fMRI was used to measure activation as a function of lower- and higher-level scene properties at fixation, operationalized as edge density and meaning maps, respectively. We found that edge density at fixation was most associated with activation in early visual areas, whereas semantic content at fixation was most associated with activation along the ventral visual stream including core object and scene-selective areas (lateral occipital complex, parahippocampal place area, occipital place area, and retrosplenial cortex). The observed activation from semantic content was not accounted for by differences in edge density. The results are consistent with active vision models in which fixation gates detailed visual analysis for fixated scene regions, and this gating influences both lower and higher levels of scene analysis.
How variable is Crepidotus variabilis?

Authors: JANČOVIČOVÁ SOŇA , ADAMČÍKOVÁ KATARÍNA , CABOŇ MIROSLAV , ADAMČÍK SLAVOMÍR
Published: June 2020

This study evaluates the morphological concept of Crepidotus variabilis and similar taxa based on basidiospore and cheilocystidia characters. A phylogenetic analysis of the ITS region clearly distinguished C. variabilis var. variabilis from the two other distinct taxa of the same lineage, C. variabilis var. trichocystis and C. neotrichocystis. We also recognised one additional morphologically similar and undescribed species that belongs to the C. variabilis lineage. All four taxa can also be recognised morphologically using basidiospore and cheilocystidia characters. Our detailed statistical comparison of these characters improves the knowledge of their variability and specifies more precisely the morphological circumscription of the taxa within this group.
Lilium sealyi Y.D.Gao, a new name for Lilium farreri (W.E.Evans) Y.D.Gao

Authors: GAO YUNDONG , GAO XINFEN
Published: June 2020

Following evidence from morphology and molecular phylogenies, we integrated Nomocharis Franchet (1889: 113) into Lilium Linnaeus (1753: 302) and made the combination L. farreri (W.E.Evans) Y.D.Gao in Gao & Gao (2016: 207) based on Nomocharis farreri (W.E.Evans 1925: 20) Harrow (1928: 76). Unfortunately, this combination in Lilium was blocked by L. farreri Turrill (1919: 76), which is regarded as a synonym of L. duchartrei Franchet (1887: 90). Here we propose a new name to replace the illegitimate name L. farreri (W.E.Evans) Y.D.Gao.
The genus Loneura Navás (Insecta: Psocodea: ‘Psocoptera’: Ptiloneuridae)
in Colombia, description of new species and key for identification
Authors: OBANDO RANULFO GONZÁLEZ , GIRONZA NANCY CARREJO , PANCHE JEFERSON , ALDRETE ALFONSO NERI GARCÍA
Published: June 2020

We here describe and illustrate the following 14 new species of Loneura: altaquerensis; carijona; javierensis; koreguaje; magdalenensis; misak; murui; nonuya; occidentalis; orucapu; tatama; tayronensis; tendalensis; zuluagai. These are based on specimens recently collected in natural areas of Colombia; the females of L. colombiana García Aldrete et al., and L. gorgonaensis García Aldrete et al., are also described. The new species are assigned to the infrageneric groups recognized in the genus. The number of species of Loneura is raised to 35, of which 21 (73.2%) are from Colombia, making this country the most species rich for the genus. An identification key to the males of Loneura is included.
The spongillafly genus Sisyra Burmeister, 1839 (Neuroptera: Sisyridae) from Brazil: Distributional, taxonomical and bionomical notes
Authors: ASSMAR ALICE CARVALHO , CALOR ADOLFO RICARDO
Published: June 2020

Sisyridae is a small family of aquatic insects, with 73 extant species described worldwide. In Brazil, 17 species of two genera, Climacia McLachlan, 1869 and Sisyra Burmeister, 1839, have been reported. In this paper, the family is recorded from the Caatinga biome (semiarid region), Northeastern Brazil, for the first time, including a record of the genus Sisyra from Ceará State. Additional distributional data are presented for both S. apicalis Banks, 1908 and S. panama Parfin & Gurney, 1956. Sisyra ariasi Penny, 1981 is here synonymized with S. panama, NEW SYNONYMY. Illustrations of the male genitalia of S. minuta Esben-Petersen, 1935, and bionomic notes for S. panama are provided.
Cynipidae (Insecta: Hymenoptera) fauna of Kazdağı National Park (Turkey)
Authors: KARACA GAMZE , KATILMIŞ YUSUF
Published: June 2020

Field surveys were carried out to determine the richness of the Cynipidae fauna of Kazdağı National Park, located on the border of Edremit county (Balıkesir province, Turkey). Gall samples of cynipids were collected or photographed on Quercus and Rosa host plants. As a result, 53 cynipid species belonging to 3 different tribes were found or observed in the surveyed area. 14 and 8 species were recorded as new for the Cynipidae fauna of Balıkesir and Çanakkale provinces respectively, including the first locality record of Andricus hystrix Trotter, 1897 for Turkey. In addition, color photos of reared cynipid wasps from their galls and the observed cynipid galls on their host plant species are presented.
Two new species of the genus Notacanthurus from China (Ephemeroptera: Heptageniidae, Ecdyonurinae)
Authors: ZHANG WEI , ZHANG MIN , HAN NA , ZHOU CHANG-FA
Published: June 2020

Previously, only three of seven species in the Asian genus Notacanthurus were reported both nymphs and imagoes, and no Chinese species was found. Here two new species collected from China, which are named as Notacanthurus maculatus sp. n. and N. lamellosus sp. n. respectively, are described and pictured in detail. The nymph of N. maculatus sp. n. has following combined characters: posterior margin of sternum IX straight, claws with two subapical denticles, and gills V–VI with arrow-like accessory lobes. The male imago has unspecialized anterior margin of head and Electrogena-like penis lobes. The second species N. lamellosus sp. n. is more distinguishable. Its nymph has pale dots on head, median dorsal ridges on abdominal terga I–IX, claws with five subapical denticles, and dorsal lamellae of gills II–IV divided into two portions. Anterior margin of male imago is not protruding either, forewings have less pigmented crossveins between Sc and R1, and penis lobes have apical and ventral sclerites. A key to all known nymphs of the genus is provided.
Changes in Carbon Sequestration in Wood During Decay by Brown- and White-Rot Fungi
Authors: Xu Huadong , Wei Jiedong , Di Yanan , Qin Ruixia , Zhen Zonglin
Published: June 2020

Wood decay is a releasing process of carbon fixed in the wood. The study on carbon sequestration change caused by decay can provide a theoretical basis for wood preservation and utilization. At present, there are few reports on decay influence on wood carbon emission and no corresponding
quantitative data. Therefore, one broad-leaved species, Poplar, and one coniferous species, Korean pine, were selected as the research object, and brown rot fungus (Gloeephyllum trabeum) and white rot fungus (Coriolus versicolor) were used to conduct accelerated
decay test on wood samples in the laboratory. During decay, specimens were taken out in different periods to measure chemical properties, mass loss and carbon sequestration. The influence of decay time on carbon sequestration, chemical component and mass loss were then analyzed and the change
rule of carbon sequestration were finally studied. The results showed that with increasing decay time, the relative carbon sequestration content of wood affected by different types rot fungi decreased, which was consistent with the change rule of mass loss, indicating that decay would lead
to a loss of wood mass and affect its carbon sequestration. However, the absolute carbon sequestration (measured value of carbon sequestration) after brown rot treatment did not decrease but increased slightly, which was different from previous expectation. According to the analysis, with
increasing brown rot time, the absolute content and proportion of lignin in wood samples increased slightly, while the corresponding value of holocellulose (including α-cellulose and hemicellulose) decreased significantly. The carbon content of lignin per unit mass is higher than
that of holocellulose (Poplar 64.08% > 37.38%; Korean pine 66.37% > 35.94%), resulting in absolute carbon sequestration in wood increases instead of decreases. In conclusion, the change of lignin proportion during the process of brown rot is the decisive factor affecting the change of
absolute carbon sequestration. This study focused on two aspects of wood decay and wood carbon sequestration, systematically analyzed the change rule and internal mechanism of wood carbon sequestration with the increase of wood decay degree, and accumulated basic data for wood carbon emission
reduction and wood prevention.
Biodecolorization of Basic Violet 03 Using Biochar Derived from Agricultural Wastes: Isotherm and Kinetics
Authors: Jegan Josephraj , Praveen Saravanan , Pushpa Thillainayagam Bhagavathi , Gokulan Ravindran
Published: June 2020

In the present study, bioremediation of Basic Violet 03 is examined using biochar derived from agricultural wastes. The pyrolytic studies revealed that ideal temperature for maximum yield of biochar derived from Coconut Shell (CSB), Ground nut Shell (GnSB) and Rice Husk (RHB) was obtained
as 400 °C, 350 °C and 300 °C respectively. Further from the batch mode of operations, it was concluded that the optimum conditions of biochar dose, pH, temperature and initial concentration are 4 g/L, 8, 40 °C and 75 mg/L with a maximum uptake of 15.79 mg/g, 17.28 mg/g, and
12.64 mg/g for CSB, GnSB and RHB. The adsorption isotherm studies concluded that the three-parameter Sips model was obtained to be the best fit with a maximum correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.9937, 0.9935 and 0.9965. The pseudo second order kinetic model was found to well
represent the experimental kinetic data. The characterization results of biochar through SEM, EDX and FTIR revealed that there was a strong binding capacity of adsorbent was observed before and after adsorption process. The promising results concluded that biochar derived from agricultural
wastes can potentially be utilized for the removal of cationic dyes.
Improvement of Chloroplast Transformation Using CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Tang Ning , Xia Yumei , Zhan Yijie , Dan Junhao , Yu Mulan , Bu Xiaolan , Cao Mengliang
Published: June 2020

Chloroplasts are organelles that contain genetic materials (DNA) in higher plant cells. The special genetic characteristics of chloroplasts mean that plasmid transformation has important research value, so it has become an important research direction second to nuclear transformation.
Although the techniques of chloroplast genome modification have been successfully applied in tobacco and extended to other high plants, there are still many limitations. Exogenous genes are integrated into the chloroplast genome through homologous recombination. Therefore, the low efficiency
of homologous recombination directly limits transformation efficiency. Gene editing with fixed-point cutting function and DNA damage repair mechanism may effectively improve the efficiency. In the present study, we aimed to use CRISPR/Cas9 to cut the site between two homologous recombinant
fragments in chloroplast transformation to improve the efficiency by activating the DNA damage repair mechanism. The Cas9 gene and gRNA were added to the chloroplast transformation system of tobacco by co-transformation or integration into a transformation vector. The acquired
resistant plants were screened by multiple selection of spectinomycin and chloroplast DNA was isolated for molecular detection by PCR. The results showed that the efficiency of chloroplast transformation increased by 6–10 times with the addition of gene editing technology. Although the
transformation efficiency was still far below the level of nuclear transformation, this study may help to increase the efficiency of the plant chloroplast transformation system, and expand the types of plant receptors.
Evaluation of Compost from On-Farm Composting of Coffee Pulp Using Wood Chips and Air Flow
Authors: Quynh Hoang Thi , Mishio Morita , Kazuto Shima
Published: June 2020

Being the second largest coffee producing country worldwide, Vietnam is estimated to annually generate approximately 1 million m3 of coffee pulp. Instead of being effectively utilized in the form of recycling resources, most of the waste is discarded, causing serious environmental
pollution even though it contains essential macronutrients in high concentrations. In this study, we performed on-farm composting trials of coffee pulp with simple aeration using wood chips and air flow. After 2 months of composting, samples were collected for analysis and a cultivation experiment
was conducted to clarify the effectiveness of the composts. Coffee pulp compost was a nutrient-rich organic material with the total C, total N and total K in the range of 340.35–386.02 g kg–1, 23.80–36.70 g kg –1, and 18.86–25.13 g kg–1,
respectively. The C:N ratio was in the range of 10–15 and the NH4–N:NO3–N ratio was in the range of 1–2, indicating compost was mature. In the compost where wood chips were used as the bulking agent under air flow, exhibited a concentration of
inorganic N that was significantly higher than that of the other composts. The plant biomass corresponding to the compost showed similarity with chemical fertilizer. Furthermore, the P content and the plant biomass produced by the compost in which chicken manure was added, were investigated.
The results indicate that the addition of P-source in the manufacturing process enhanced the fertilizing efficiency of the compost.
Electoral Preferences Among Multiethnic Voters in Africa
Authors: Dulani Boniface , Harris Adam S. , Horowitz Jeremy , Kayuni Happy
Published: June 2020

Intermarriage is transforming Africa’s ethnic landscape. In several countries on the continent more than a fifth of all marriages now cut across ethnic lines. As a result, there is a growing population of multiethnic citizens who descend from diverse family lineages. The growth of Africa’s mixed population has the potential to affect politics in a variety of potentially far-reaching ways. In this article, we focus on one possible implication by examining the electoral preferences of multiethnic voters in contexts where ethnic bloc voting is commonplace. Drawing on survey data from Malawi and Kenya, we find that mixed individuals are less likely to support the party associated with their stated ethnic group, relative to mono-ethnics. We outline several possible explanations related to identity measurement, the link between identities and preferences, and social networks.
An experimental study on low velocity impact behavior of thermoplastic composites repaired by composite patches
Authors: Zorer Erdem , Özdemir Okan , Öztoprak Nahit
Published: June 2020

In this study, low velocity impact behavior of E-glass fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites repaired by pressing external laminated composite patches was investigated by experimental methods. Thermoplastic composites were manufactured from polypropylene granules with two different fiber contents of 40 wt. % and 60 wt. %. Repaired specimens were prepared by using unidirectional E-glass reinforced polypropylene based thermoplastic prepregs. In order to compare the low velocity impact behavior of the repaired and unrepaired specimens, a number of single impact tests (ranging from energy levels of 10 J to 50 J) were carried out through a drop weight impact test machine with a hemispherical impactor. Low-velocity impact response of the specimens was investigated with cross-examining contact force-deformation curves and damaged specimens. Impact damages occurred in the upside and bottom surfaces of the composites were recorded from the visual inspection and compared for repaired and unrepaired specimens. According to experimental results, bending stiffness and maximum contact force of the specimens having fiber content of 60 wt.% are higher than those of 40 wt.%. Moreover, it was concluded that the patch repaired specimens have achieved a better performance in terms of maximum contact force and absorbed energy compared to the intact specimens.
Secondary Students’ Preferences for Various Learning Conditions and Music Courses: A Comparison of School Music, Out-of-School Music, and Nonmusic Participants
Authors: Pendergast Seth , Robinson Nicole R.
Published: June 2020

This study was an investigation of middle and high school students’ preferences for various music learning conditions and secondary music course offerings. The stratified random sample included students who were and were not enrolled in school music classes ( N = 827). Participants represented secondary school music students ( n = 369), students who only participate in music outside of school ( n = 254), and nonparticipants in music ( n = 204). The research questions for this study concerned students’ preferences for teacher role, group size, and repertoire in the music classroom as well as interest in six different secondary music courses. Findings showed out-of-school music participants and nonparticipants had a stronger preference for small group learning environments and repertoire choice when compared to school music participants. In-school and out-of-school music participants expressed similar levels of interest in four music course offerings and ranked them as follows: (1) piano/guitar class, (2) music composition with technology class, (3) popular music groups, and (4) music history/theory class. In-school and out-of-school music participants differed on only two course offerings: large ensembles and world music groups. In-school music participants expressed high interest in large ensembles, whereas out-of-school music participants conveyed a lower interest in large ensembles.
Control of the water compatibility and shape recovery of polyurethane using the graft polymerization of poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate
Authors: Chung Yong-Chan , Kim Ha Youn , Choi Jae Won , Chun Byoung Chul
Published: June 2020

Graft polymerization of poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate (PEGA) onto polyurethane (PU) was conducted to improve its water compatibility, tensile mechanical strength, shape memory, and low-temperature flexibility properties, as well as to control its water vapor permeability (WVP). Control PUs containing free poly(PEGA) were also prepared to compare with the poly(PEGA)-grafted PUs. The water compatibility of PU notably improved due to the grafting of poly(PEGA) based on water contact angle results. The soft segment melting temperature and glass transition temperature were not changed with the increase in the PEGA content. The tensile strength of PU sharply increased due to the grafting of poly(PEGA), whereas the free poly(PEGA) in the control PUs did not cause a similar increase. The maximum strain of PU was not affected by the grafting of poly(PEGA). The shape recovery at 0°C significantly increased compared with the unmodified PU. The low-temperature flexibility of PU improved, and the WVP through the PU membrane was reduced by the grafting of poly(PEGA) onto PU.
On the re-institutionalization and diversification of Public Administration education in Central and Eastern Europe: A case study of post-communist Romania
Authors: Andreescu Liviu , Zulean Marian , Diaconu David
Published: June 2020

The article provides a complementary view to those accounts of the growth of public administration education in post-communist Central and Eastern Europe that (a) explain its development primarily as a reflection of changes in administrative cultures while (b) emphasizing the ongoing process of curricular diversification. Rather, the article shifts the focus on the internal dynamics of higher education. It shows that the development of Romanian public administration education can be attributed, to a considerable extent, to unique opportunities arising in a period of post-communist re-institutionalization, of which enterprising academics ably took advantage. It further argues that, curricular variety notwithstanding, public administration departments in this country may be growing more alike in other respects. In so doing, the article contributes to an expansion of the traditional narrative of the growth of public administration education in post-communist Europe.
Involvement of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux in Select Nonfunctional Laryngeal Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lechien Jerome R. , Akst Lee M. , Saussez Sven , Crevier‐Buchman Lise , Hans Stéphane , Barillari Maria Rosaria , Calvo‐Henriquez Christian , Bock Jonathan M. , Carroll Thomas L.
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To investigate the existing published evidence supporting the role of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in the development of the select nonfunctional laryngeal diseases of laryngotracheal stenosis, granuloma, leukoplakia, and laryngeal infections

Data Sources

PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus.

Review Methods

A systematic review was performed by 3 independent investigators for studies providing information about the prevalence and role of LPR in the development of laryngotracheal stenosis, granuloma, leukoplakia, and laryngeal infections. Diagnostic criteria and clinical outcome evaluation of included studies were analyzed with PRISMA criteria.

Results

Of the 64 relevant publications, 27 clinical and 4 basic science studies were included. Ten studies used objective reliable examinations for LPR diagnosis (eg, dual‐ or triple‐probe or oropharyngeal pH monitoring, multichannel intraluminal impedance–pH monitoring, or pepsin detection). According to the bias analysis and the results of studies, the association between LPR and laryngotracheal stenosis, leukoplakia, laryngeal papillomatosis, or vocal fold granuloma remains poorly demonstrated. There is a notable heterogeneity among included studies regarding their inclusion criteria, diagnostic methods, and clinical outcome evaluation. Although some experimental findings support the involvement of bile salts and other gastroduodenal proteins active in alkaline pH, no included clinical studies assessed the role of nonacid and mixed reflux through multichannel intraluminal impedance–pH monitoring.

Conclusion

The involvement of LPR in the development of leukoplakia, laryngotracheal stenosis, vocal fold granuloma, and laryngeal papillomatosis is currently not demonstrated. The potential relationship between LPR and these select nonfunctional laryngeal diseases must be confirmed through future clinical and experimental studies considering acid, nonacid, and mixed LPR.
Intergroup Threat as a Mediator of Ethnic Identification and Intergroup Orientations
Authors: Jelić Margareta , Uzelac Ena , Čorkalo Biruški Dinka
Published: June 2020

In Croatia, four minority groups practice their right to education in their respective mother tongues. Relations between the majority and minority groups in the four multiethnic communities have developed under different historical circumstances. Thus, in some regions the different language of the minority and the majority group can be perceived as a threat to identity and result in intergroup prejudice and discrimination, whereas in others it might not. In this study, we wanted to examine: (a) the mediating effect of perceived threat on the relationship between in-group identification and intergroup orientation, (b) whether those relationships are moderated by the group status, and (c) contextual specificities, that is, we wanted to test the model in four different contexts. Results showed that ethnonationalism (rather than ethnic identity) is detrimental for intergroup relations, partially due to its connection to the perception of the out-group as a threat. Model tests in different contexts revealed some contextual differences.
Haemolysis induced by mechanical circulatory support devices: unsolved problems
Authors: Köhne Inge
Published: June 2020

Since the use of continuous flow blood pumps as ventricular assist devices is standard, the problems with haemolysis have increased. It is mainly induced by shear stress affecting the erythrocyte membrane. There are many investigations about haemolysis in laminar and turbulent blood flow. The results defined as threshold levels for the damage of erythrocytes depend on the exposure time of the shear stress, but they are very different, depending on the used experimental methods or the calculation strategy. Here, the results are resumed and shown in curves. Different models for the calculation of the strengths of erythrocytes are discussed. There are few results reported about tests of haemolysis in blood pumps, but some theoretical approaches for the design of continuous flow blood pumps according to low haemolysis have been investigated within the last years.