bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One-Step Hydrothermal Synthesis of N, Fe-Codoped Carbon Dots as Mimic Peroxidase and Application on Hydrogen Peroxide and Glucose Detection
Authors: Li Yan , Weng Yuhui , Lu Shikong , Xue Meihua , Yao Bixia , Weng Wen , Zheng Tao
Published: May 2020

In this paper, N, Fe-codoped carbon dots (N, Fe-CDs) were synthesized from β-cyclodextrin, ethylenediamine, and ferric chloride for the first time using a convenient one-step hydrothermal method. The obtained N, Fe-CDs were characterized by various methods including transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The N, Fe-CDs exhibited better catalytic activity than horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and caused an evident color change for 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine in the presence of H2O2. Kinetic experiments show that the apparent Km value for the N, Fe-CDs with TMB (0.40 mM) or H2O2 (0.35 mM) as the substrate was lower than that of HRP (0.43 and 3.70 mM), suggesting that the N, Fe-CDs have a much higher affinity for TMB and H2O2 than HRP. The Km/Vmax value for the N, Fe-CDs (21.74×103·s for H2O2) is significantly lower than that for HRP (42.53×103·s), suggesting that the N, Fe-CDs have a stronger catalytic efficiency for H2O2 than HRP. Furthermore, a highly efficient and sensitive colorimetric detection method for glucose was developed using the N, Fe-CDs as mimic peroxidase to detect the hydrogen peroxide generated by the oxidation of glucose by glucose oxidase. The limit of detection for H2O2 and glucose was found to be 0.52 and 3.0 μM, respectively. The obtained N, Fe-codoped carbon dots, which possess simulated peroxidase activity, can potentially be used in the field of biotechnology.
Comparison of Accuracy in Expert Clinical Examination versus Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Arthroscopic Exam in Diagnosis of Meniscal Tear
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Ali , Ranjbar Mohammad Reza , Tahami Mohammad , Shahriarirad Reza , Erfani Amirhossein
Published: May 2020

Background. Many clinical tests and diagnostic studies have been developed to increase the clinician’s ability to accurately diagnose disorders of the knee. Torn menisci or ligamentous structures within the knee cause significant pain and disability and thus require expeditious management. This study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of clinical examination in comparison with MRI examination and with the help of arthroscopic examination as the gold standard in the diagnosis of meniscal tears.Method. All of the arthroscopic surgery candidates, presenting symptoms of meniscal or cruciate ligament lesions, referring to Namazi and Chamran hospitals, Shiraz, Iran, were included in this study. Clinical examination (including McMurray test, Apley test, and 20 Thessaly test) was performed before the arthroscopy, and the results were recorded in special forms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results were also added. Then, arthroscopy was performed, declaring the definite diagnosis, and the results were compared to the results obtained from both tests and MRI. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.Results. 86 patients with a mean age of 27 years old, including 63 (73%) male and 23 (27%) female, were studied. 57 (66%), 19 (22%), and 10 (12%) injuries were caused by sports, twisting, or trauma, respectively. Arthroscopic results showed 32 meniscal tears, of which 28 (87%) and 4 (13%) were in medial and lateral menisci, respectively, including 10 bucket handle, 17 longitudinal, and 5 of other types (transverse, oblique, radial) of injuries. Comparing MRI results to arthroscopic results, we had 2 false-positive and 2 false-negative cases. 62 cases of McMurray test results were accurate; 15 and 9 cases were reported false positive and false negative, respectively. 60 cases of Apley test results were accurate; 16 and 10 cases were reported false positive and false negative, respectively. 78 cases of Thessaly test results were accurate; 5 and 3 cases were reported false positive and false negative, respectively. Comparing Thessaly test results to McMurray and Apley showed statistical significance (P<0.05). Comparing Thessaly test results to MRI showed no statistical significance (P=0.151), while comparing McMurray and Apley test results to MRI showed statistical significance (P<0.01).Conclusion. Clinical examination, performed by an experienced examiner, can have equal or even more diagnostic accuracy compared to MRI to evaluate meniscal lesions. In this study, the Thessaly test has been approved as a reliable clinical test in the diagnosis of meniscal tears.
Beta Blocker Therapy in Heart Failure Patients with Active Cocaine Use: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mann Baldeep K. , Bhandohal Janpreet S. , Saeed Mohammad , Pekler Gerald
Published: May 2020

Background. Cocaine use is associated with multiple cardiovascular complications including heart failure. The use of different types of beta blockers in heart failure patients with active cocaine use is still a matter of debate. In this review, our objective is to systematically review the available literature regarding the use of beta blockers in the treatment of heart failure patients with concurrent cocaine use. Methods. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials.gov were searched from inception to March 2019 using the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms “cocaine”, “heart failure”, “beta blocker,” and “cardiomyopathy”. Only studies containing the outcomes of heart failure patients with active cocaine use who were treated with beta blockers were included. Results. The search resulted in 2072 articles out of which 12 were finally included in the review. A total number of participants were 1994 with a median sample size of 111. Most of the studies were retrospective in nature with Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM) Levels of Evidence from 3 to 5. The main primary outcomes included readmission rates, mortality, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) improvement, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). In the studies analyzed, beta blockers were found to have either a beneficial or a neutral effect on primary outcomes in heart failure patients with active cocaine use. Conclusion. The use of beta blocker therapy appears to be safe and beneficial in heart failure patients with active cocaine use, although the evidence is not robust. Furthermore, large-scale studies are required to confirm this finding.
Fast Enhanced Exemplar-Based Clustering for Incomplete EEG Signals
Authors: Bi Anqi , Ying Wenhao , Zhao Lu
Published: May 2020

The diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy is a significant direction for both machine learning and brain science. This paper newly proposes a fast enhanced exemplar-based clustering (FEEC) method for incomplete EEG signal. The algorithm first compresses the potential exemplar list and reduces the pairwise similarity matrix. By processing the most complete data in the first stage, FEEC then extends the few incomplete data into the exemplar list. A new compressed similarity matrix will be constructed and the scale of this matrix is greatly reduced. Finally, FEEC optimizes the new target function by the enhanced α-expansion move method. On the other hand, due to the pairwise relationship, FEEC also improves the generalization of this algorithm. In contrast to other exemplar-based models, the performance of the proposed clustering algorithm is comprehensively verified by the experiments on two datasets.
Effect of the Time-Varying Damping on the Vibration Isolation of a Quasi-Zero-Stiffness Vibration Isolator
Authors: Li Xin , Zhang Jinqiu , Yao Jun
Published: May 2020

This study focuses on the effect of damping changes on the vibration isolation of a quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolator. A nonlinear-vibration equation for the quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolator is found and solved using the multiscale method. Then, the vibration characteristics before, in the process of and after the damping change, are also examined. The results show that time-varying damping can be equivalent to the addition of a stiffness term to the vibration system, which leads to a change of the vibration amplitude frequency response, leakage of power spectrum, and corresponding linear spectrum features being weakened. When the damping changes rapidly, the vibration system tends to be divergent rather than stable. After the change, the number of stable focuses of the proposed quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolator increases from one to two, and the system will see decline in its vibration stability.
Land Improvement Solutions: Afforestation and Planting Fruit Trees and Short-Term Crops after Mine Closure in Luong Son District, Hoa Binh Province, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hai X. , Tran Hong T. , Pham Ha T. T. , Pham Anh V. T. , Phan Trang T. , Pham Ho N.
Published: May 2020

Luong Son is a district to the east gateway of Hoa Binh province, adjacent to Hanoi the capital and the northwest of Vietnam. Against the background of the rapidly expanding natural resources exploitation, a lack of experience in the general management of resources is obvious. The problem of serious environmental pollution occurs due to the increase of mining activities. This is especially true in mining areas located near fast-growing urban areas. In particular, after the end of the exploitation and mine closure, there is a need to improve and recover the environmental conditions in order to protect untapped mineral reserves and to keep the exploitation site in a sustainable status. This includes questions of environmental safety and soil recovery within the affected areas. This article deals with 2 types of land improvement and restoration in Luong Son district: (1) designing a method for land improvement by afforestation and (2) designing a method for land improvement by planting fruit trees and short-term crops.
Preparation of a Novel Thiol Surface Modifier and Fe3O4 Drug Loading Agent as well as Releasing under pH-Sensitivity
Authors: Ya-zhen Wang , Xue-ying Wu , Yu-tao Di , Tian-yu Lan , Li-wu Zu
Published: May 2020

In this paper, in order to take advantage of the combination between magnetic nano-Fe3O4 and surface modifier, a pH-sensitive drug delivery system that could effectively deliver doxorubicin (DOX) to tumor tissue was constructed. The novel drug delivery system named Fe3O4-TIPTS-g-(PEI-co-PEG) was prepared through three steps. The first step, a surface modifier with the thiol group, thiohydrazide-iminopropyltriethoxysilane surface modifier (named TIPTS), was synthesized for the first time. The second step, Fe3O4-TIPTS was synthesized by treating nano-Fe3O4 with TIPTS. The last step, Fe3O4-TIPTS-g-(PEI-co-PEG) was synthesized in the presence of the Fe3O4-TIPTS, polyethyleneimine (PEI), and polyethylene glycol (PEG) by mercapto-initiated radical polymerization. Among them, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were used as magnetically responsive carriers, PEG was the surface-modifying compound, and PEI was the drug loading site which primary amine reacts with doxorubicin (DOX). Targeted nanoparticles were considerably stabilize in various physiological solutions and exhibited pH-sensitive performance in drug release. Thence, Fe3O4-TIPTS-g-(PEI-co-PEG) is a promising nanocarrier for targeting tumor therapy.
Prognostic Value of a Test of Central Auditory Function in Conversion from Mild Cognitive Impairment to Dementia
Authors: Häggström Jenny , Hederstierna Christina , Rosenhall Ulf , Östberg Per , Idrizbegovic Esma
Published: May 2020

Background/Objective: It has been suggested that central auditory processing dysfunction might precede the development of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The Dichotic Digits Test (DDT) has been proposed as a test of central auditory function. Our objective was to evaluate the predictive capacity of the DDT in conversion from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia. Methods: A total of 57 participants (26 females) with MCI were tested at baseline with pure tone audiometry, speech in quiet and in noise, and the DDT. The cognitive outcome was retrieved from medical files after 5 years. Groupwise comparisons of the baseline DDT scores were performed and the relative risk was calculated. Results: Altogether 22 subjects developed any kind of dementia. Of the original 57 individuals within the MCI group, 15 developed AD and 7 developed other types of dementia. There was no significant difference in baseline DDT scores between the participants who converted to AD and those who did not. However, the group who developed other types of dementia (especially frontotemporal dementia) had lower DDT scores in the left ear than those participants who did not develop dementia. With a baseline DDT score below 50% correct responses, the participants diagnosed with MCI had a 2.49-times-higher risk of developing dementia than those with scores of 50% or better. Conclusion: The DDT as a central auditory test may be suitable when evaluating cognitive decline.
Spontaneous Cataractous Lens Extrusion in a Patient with Corneal Melting
Authors: AlQahtani Bader , Abdelaal Ahmad , Karamallah Ehab
Published: May 2020

Purpose: The aim of this report is to describe an unusual case of cataractous lens extrusion through a diseased cornea in the absence of any history of trauma or surgery. Patient and Methods: An elderly female with a history of blepharitis, corneal vascularization, and scarring presented with foreign body sensation, mild ocular pain, and a brunescent cataractous lens extruding through an area of corneal melt of the right eye after being lost to follow-up. The patient was operated urgently and then referred to a specialized eye hospital for further management. Conclusion: In the setting of social neglect and poor compliance to treatment and appointments, consequences of common ophthalmic conditions can lead to serious vision and organ-threatening complications. These might require prompt medical and surgical attention.
Efficacy and Safety of Regional Anticoagulation with 4% Trisodium Citrate Versus Heparin in Extended Hemodialysis among Critical Patients with Cancer and Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Moura Edwiges Ita De Miranda , de Brito Germana Alves , Alves Joubert Araujo , Imanishe Marina Harume  , Baptista Aline Lourenço , Andrade Luis André Silvestre , Pereira Benedito Jorge
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Patients with cancer admitted to critical care units are at increased risk of being affected with acute kidney injury (AKI) and mortality. Sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED) combines the cardiovascular stability of continuous therapy with the operational facility of conventional hemodialysis (HD). Citrate has become an alternative to heparin in anticoagulation because it favors the maintenance of filter patency and reduces bleeding. We analyzed the efficacy and safety of citrate versus heparin use in extended HD for patients with cancer and AKI. Methods: This retrospective cohort study evaluated patients with cancer and dialytic AKI who received SLED with anticoagulation using citrate versus heparin from January 2014 to June 2017. After stratifying patients by the type of anticoagulation received, we evaluated demographic and clinical data, plus SLED session characteristics. We also analyzed dialysis outcomes, including insufficient session time, hypotension, poor catheter flow, line inversion, and dialysis system coagulation. Results: We identified 423 SLED sessions among 124 patients (41 patients in the heparin group and 83 patients in the citrate group). More sessions with citrate (26.6 vs. 40.9%, p < 0.001) had serum platelet concentrations <50,000/mm3 or <100,000/m3 and ionic calcium (Ca++) values <1.16 mmol/L (33.2 vs. 18.5%, p < 0.001). Dialysis intercurrence occurred in 27% of sessions. The highest odds were associated with heparin sessions (OR 2.88). Compared with the citrate group, the heparin group was subject to more dialysis system coagulation (12.3%), the need for line reversal (9.8%), and insufficient session time (23.9%). Conclusion: Citrate represents a safe and effective anticoagulant for SLED for cancer patients with AKI undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit.
Hemodynamic Change of Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque After Statin Treatment: A Serial Follow‐Up Study by Computed Tomography‐Derived Fractional Flow Reserve
Authors: Yu Mengmeng , Dai Xu , Yu Lihua , Lu Zhigang , Shen Chengxing , Tao Xiaofeng , Zhang Jiayin
Published: May 2020

Background

Whether statin treatment can improve hemodynamic status of coronary atherosclerotic plaque remains unknown. It is of clinical interest to explore the hemodynamic change of coronary lesions after statin treatment.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients with intermediate pre‐test probability of coronary artery disease were prospectively enrolled and underwent baseline coronary computed tomography angiography (
CCTA
) as well as follow‐up
CCTA
. The primary end point was to determine the lesion‐specific change of △computed tomography‐derived fractional flow reserve (△
CT
‐
FFR
, defined as the change of
CT
‐
FFR
value across each lesion) after rosuvastatin treatment. The secondary end point was to compare the change of other plaque characteristics according to serial
CCTA
findings. 152 patients (mean age: 67.1±9.7 years, 100 men, mean follow‐up duration of 13.9±2.5 months) were finally included. In non‐calcified plaque subgroup, △
CT
‐
FFR
was significantly lower at follow‐up compared with baseline (0.051±0.010 versus 0.035±0.012,
P
=0.013). All other parameters were not found to be significantly different between baseline and follow‐up
CCTA
measurements. In calcified plaque and mixed plaque subgroups, all parameters showed no significant differences between baseline and follow‐up
CCTA
groups (
P
>0.05 for all). According to multivariate regression analysis, non‐calcified plaque was >2 times more likely than calcified plaque to observe the decrease of △
CT
‐
FFR
(adjusted hazard ratio: 2.05 [1.03–4.09],
P
=0.042).

Conclusions

In patients with mild to intermediate coronary stenosis, rosuvastatin treatment resulted in a reduction in lesion‐specific △
CT
‐
FFR
at mid‐term follow‐up. This hemodynamic improvement was mainly observed for non‐calcified lesions.
Tamar’s Desolation: a Visualization of Her Silent Presence Through Manchester by the Sea
Authors: Joo Samantha
Published: May 2020

Amnon brutally rapes his half-sister, Tamar, while Absalom, her full brother, is said to have silenced her. It is no wonder that she is desolated. However, commentators have provided two distinct interpretations in which she is either devastated by the rape or by the silencing. Since she is violated, she is disconsolate. Or in most feminist readings, Tamar is ravaged by the silencing after the event. While both readings are possible based on the different versions of the text, Tamar is never silenced. Instead, the reference to her desolation reflects the incarnation of the violation on her body; she expresses the event through her embattled body. This type of desolation is most visually demonstrated in the Academy Award winning screenplay, Manchester by the Sea, in which Lee Chandler, the main character embodies the unspeakable, the death of his three children. Both Lee and Tamar bear their stories in their silent presence.
Three Blind Vices?
Authors: Jones K.L.
Published: May 2020

Frequently Samson’s blindness is linked with newfound spiritual insight, with physical humiliation, and occasionally with instrumental talion. Few question the role of blindness in the text through other lenses or with knowledge of ancient theories of vision. Balancing this, I investigate Samson’s sight and blindness in the context of Judges 13-16, asking what his sensation and sensory impairment signified in the broader context of the Hebrew Bible (HB) and wider Ancient Near East (ANE).
Sexual association and cicadellid hosts of Dryinidae (Hymenoptera, Chrysidoidea): description of five new species from Brazil and a synopsis of the interaction with Gyponini (Hemiptera, Membracoidea)
Authors: Martins André Luis , Domahovski Alexandre Cruz , Rendón-Mera Diana Isabel
Published: May 2020

Interactions between dryinids and their hosts are poorly known in the Neotropical region, especially for the Brazilian fauna. This study aims to expand this incipient knowledge by describing a new species of Anteon Jurine and four new species of Gonatopus Ljungh reared from parasitized leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) collected in the state of Paraná, Southern Brazil. The new species, A. elianeae sp. nov., G. josei sp. nov., G. meloi sp. nov., G. pinhalensis sp. nov. and G. taquarensis sp. nov., are associated with leafhopper species of the subfamilies Iassinae (tribe Gyponini) and Deltocephalinae (tribes Deltocephalini and Pendarini). Both sexes of G. josei sp. nov. and G. taquarensis sp. nov. were associated and males are described, representing the first sexual association based on reared specimens from Brazil. We record for the first time species of Dryinidae parasitizing the leafhoppers species: Curtara concava, Gypona lita and Reticana lineatta (Gyponini), Graminella striatella (Deltocephalini) and Copidinomus vittulatus (Pendarini). All known records in the Neotropic of both Anteon and Gonatupus species associated with host are compiled, all known records of parasitoids of gyponines are reviewed, and the interactions with dryinids are discussed. Each new species is diagnosed and described, and illustrations of both dryinids and parasitized hosts are provided.
New distributional records of Staphylinina in Taiwan, including a new species of Miobdelus Sharp (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Staphylininae: Staphylinini)
Authors: HU FANG-SHUO
Published: May 2020

Miobdelus humilis sp. nov. is described as new. A lectotype is designated for Staphylinus (Xanthocypus) miwai Bernhauer, 1943 and Thoracostrongylus miyakei Bernhauer, 1943. Ocypus (Ocypus) miwai (Bernhauer, 1943) is transferred from Ocypus Leach, 1819 to Sphaerobulbus Smetana, 2003 and the species is re-described based on types and modern specimens. A female description of Apecholinus imitator Smetana & Hu, 2019 is provided. Creophilus flavipennis Hope, 1831, Nelmanwaslus ornatus Smetana, 2006, Ontholestes oculatus (Sharp, 1874) and Platydracus juang Smetana, 2005 are reported for the first time from Taiwan. Ontholestes oculatus is re-described based on Taiwanese material, representing the first record of the genus Ontholestes Ganglbauer, 1895 in Taiwan. Platydracus juang is considered to be a termitophilous species, associated with Reticulitermes leptomandibularis (Hsia & Fan, 1965), which would represent the first report of termitophily in the subtribe Staphylinina. Additional records of C. maxillosus maxillosus (Linnaeus, 1758), Agelosus auricomus Smetana & Hu, 2019, Apecholinus fraternus Fairmaire, 1891, Miobdelus taiwanensis taiwanensis Smetana, 2001, Naddia taiwanensis Shibata, 1979 and Thoracostrongylus formosanus Shibata, 1982 are provided. Habitus photos of the above species and Dinothenarus choui Smetana, 1992 are also provided. A preliminary checklist of Staphylinina in Taiwan is proposed.
Re-examination of Australian and Oriental species of Minagenia Banks, 1934 (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae), with a new record for the genus in Australia and a new species description
Authors: DECKER BRENNA L. , PITTS JAMES P. , YUAN DAVID , RODRIGUEZ JUANITA
Published: May 2020

The genus Minagenia Banks, 1934 is reported for the first time from Australia. A new species, M. lasallei Decker, Rodriguez & Pitts, sp. nov. (Australia: from Queensland to Tasmania), is described and illustrated. A key to the four species from the Australasian and Oriental regions is given. Three species are removed from Asian Minagenia: granulosa Tsuneki, 1989, comb. nov., to the genus Priocnemis Schiødte, 1837; pempuchiensis Tsuneki, 1989, comb. nov., to the genus Nipponodipogon Ishikawa, 1965; and assimilis Smith, 1861, comb. nov., to the genus Dichragenia Haupt, 1950. Minagenia alticola Tsuneki, 1989 is a member of an undescribed genus. Placement of this species is maintained in Minagenia until the new genus can be described in a future work. Minagenia brevicornis (Banks, 1934) is redescribed.
Dima spicata Schimmel, 1999 (Elateridae: Dimini), a morphologically remarkable species endemic to China
Authors: QIU LU , NÉMETH TAMÁS , PROSVIROV ALEXANDER S. , KUNDRATA ROBIN
Published: May 2020

Dima spicata Schimmel, 1999 has a unique pronotal morphology within Dimini, with the posterior angles extremely elongate and surpassing humeral part of elytra. It was described based on a female specimen from Southwest China (Sichuan, Ya’an). Here, we report the discovery of additional specimens including males from several localitites in Liangshan, Sichuan. We redescribe the species in detail and discuss its intraspecific variability and distribution.
A new species and new records of Malagasy Megalopinus Eichelbaum (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Megalopsidiinae), with notes on the sperm pump in rove beetles
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: May 2020

A new Malagasy megalopsidiine rove beetle, Megalopinus puthzi sp. n., is described; the male morphological structures, including the aedeagus, are described for M. lemur Puthz for the first time, and a new record for M. heissi Puthz is given. The distribution and diversity of the sperm pump within Staphylinidae is discussed; the pump is for the first time reported to occur in Megalopsidiinae, Steninae, and Solieriinae; examples in Euaesthetinae and Scydmaeninae are also illustrated.
Revision and Phylogeny of the Eccritotarsine Plant Bug Genus Caulotops Bergroth, with Descriptions of Four New Genera and 14 New Species (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae: Bryocorinae) Associated with Agave (Agavoideae: Asparagaceae) and Related Plant Genera
Authors: HENRY THOMAS J. , MENARD KATRINA L.
Published: May 2020

The bryocorine genus Caulotops Bergroth (Miridae: Eccritotarsini), originally described to accommodate its only species C. puncticollis Bergroth, is shown not to be congeneric with all other species now included in the genus from North, Central, and northern South America. Consequently, four new genera are established for the following 20 species, including five new combinations and 14 species described as new: Agaveocoris n. gen. for Caulotops agavis Reuter (as the type species), n. comb.; C. barberi Knight, n. comb.; and C. distanti Reuter, n. comb. and the new species A. bimaculatus, n. sp.; A. barrerai, n. sp.; A. dimidiatus, n. sp.; A. marginalis, n. sp.; A. roseus, n. sp.; A. rostratus, n. sp.; A. schaffneri, n. sp.; and A. scutellatus, n. sp; Laterospinocoris, n. gen. for Caulotops cyaneipennis Reuter, new comb. (as the type species) and the new species L. mexicanus, n. sp.; Nigrotomocoris n. gen. for Caulotops nigrus Carvalho (as the type species), n. comb.; C. tibiopallidus Carvalho, n. comb.; and the new species N. keltoni, n. sp. and N. longirostris, n. sp.; and Schaffnerocoris, n. gen., for S. fuscotibialis, n. sp. (as the type species), S. pallipes, n. sp., and S. similis, n. sp. Lectotypes are designated for Caulotops agavis Reuter, Caulotops cyaneipennis Reuter, and Caulotops puncticollis Bergroth, and a neotype is designated for Eccritotarsus platensis Berg. Each genus and species is diagnosed and described; habitus images, illustration of male genitalia and selected female genitalia, and keys to genera and species are provided; and host use and the unique genitalic systems of these taxa are discussed. A phylogenetic analysis, based on 22 taxa and 39 characters, resulted in three trees supporting the monophyly of the four new genera proposed in this study.
Mansonia uniformis (Diptera: Culicidae), a genus and species new to southwestern Asia, with a review of its medical and veterinary importance
Authors: AZARI-HAMIDIAN SHAHYAD , ABAI MOHAMMAD-REZA , NOROUZI BEHZAD
Published: May 2020

Seven genera and more than 98 species of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) are found in southwestern Asia (Harbach 1988). The most recent checklist of Iranian mosquitoes includes 69 species representing either seven or 11 genera depending on the classification used for aedines (Azari-Hamidian et al. 2019). Orthopodomyia pulcripalpis (Rondani) was the most recent genus and species to be added to the Iranian mosquito fauna (Azari-Hamidian et al. 2017).
Description of the larva of Cinygmula levanidovi Tshernova & Belov, 1982
(Ephemeroptera, Heptageniidae) with redescription of the male adult from the Russian Far East
Authors: TIUNOVA TATIANA M.
Published: May 2020

The larvae, male and female imagines, and eggs of Cinygmula levanidovi Tshernova & Belov 1982 are described based on reared specimens from the Russian Far East. The larvae, female imago and eggs are described and illustrated for the first time. The larva of C. levanidovi is similar to the one of C. hirasana Imanishi, 1935 and C. kurenzovi (Bajkova, 1965). However, it can be distinguished from these species and from all other Far Eastern Cinygmula by the shape of its tergalius I, which has a heart-shape and bears a single short gill filament. Tergalius I of C. hirasana and C. kurenzovi possess a similar shape, but there are no gill filaments on the first and the other tergalii.
Key to world Stictothrips species with description of a new species from Iran (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae)
Authors: MINAEI KAMBIZ , MOUND LAURENCE
Published: May 2020

An illustrated key is provided to distinguish seven species of the genus Stictothrips Hood. Information is provided concerning the distribution and variation among these fungus-feeding thrips, and a new species of the genus, S. denaeus sp. n., is described from both sexes collected in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, south-west of Iran.
Preparation and Biocompatibility of Polydopamine Modified Porous Polyetheretherketone Implants
Authors: Qin Shuang , Lu Zhengkuan , Chen Liang , Wang Yue , Bai Jianfei , Wang Defei , Wang Na , Liu Hong
Published: May 2020

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), as a new polymer biomaterial, became a potential candidate for orthopedic and dental implant, however its application was limited by bioinert surface. The surface modification method had achieved remarkable results in improving the bioactivity of the implant
surface. In this work, PEEK was firstly etched by sulfuric acid of different time and then the optimal group was modified with polydopamine coating. All the specimens including the control group were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle goniometer and X-ray photoelectron
spectrometer (XPS). As a result, the surface of PEEK was corroded by sulfuric acid to obtain a relatively stable porous structure at 6 minutes and polydopamine coating significantly reduced the surface contact angle. In subsequent biocompatibility study, the non-toxicity and the promotion
of cell adhesion and proliferation of the modified PEEK-based substrates were verified by MC3T3 cells, laying a foundation for the wider application of PEEK in medical implantation.
Apolipoprotein E Inhibits Osteogenic Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Inhibiting β-Catenin Expression
Authors: Gu Mingyong , Zheng Runquan
Published: May 2020

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can differentiate into adipocytes, osteoblasts. Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is closely related to bone metabolism and its effect on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells is unclear. Therefore, this study investigated ApoE's effect on BMSCs osteogenic
differentiation. BMSCs were isolated from ApoE – and WT mouse and cultured to induce osteogenic induction followed by analysis of expression of osteogenic differentiation marker genes by Real-time PCR, calcium nodules formation by ARS staining, ALP activity and -catenin protein level
by Western blot. The number of bone differentiation markers, ALP activity and calcium nodules formation as well as β-catenin protein level in ApoE– group were significantly elevated compared with WT (P < 0 05). After treatment with DKK-1, β-catenin expression was significantly
reduced (P < 0 05) without difference between ApoE– + DKK-1 group and WT group (P > 0 05). WT+ DKK1 group showed significantly reduced osteogenic differentiation marker expression, ALP activity and calcium nodule number compared to WT (P < 0 05) without difference between ApoE–
+ DKK1 group and WT group (P > 0 05). ApoE inhibits BMSCs osteogenic differentiation by inhibiting β-catenin expression.
Smart Bicycle Rental System Using Raspberry Pi Zero W
Authors: Darshini Visnu , Kausik S. , Dhiraj Sharma S. , Satya Sai Krishna B.
Published: May 2020

Commutation in a traffic ridden neighborhood has been a major problem for students to reach classes on time. Relying on public modes of transport does not assure punctuality to the students as well as the faculty. Introduction of e-bicycle rental system helps our students to access
university owned bicycles in an efficient and eco-friendly way. We propose to introduce a bicycle rental system which will monitor the location of bicycles and the duration of rental. Password enabled locks ensure anti-theft. This approach can reduce the time and money wasted by the students
for short distance commutation in and around the campus, in a healthy, eco-friendly way. Proposed range of accessibility for the rental shall be a perimeter of few hundred meters from the school/college campus. There shall be specified docks to park the cycle from where the students can pick
up their rental cycle or drop it off after their rental use. In future the project can be expanded for a wider outreach to general public. The proposed system can be improvised with dock less parking, which will increase the availability of cycles.
Attributes Based Storage System for Secure De-Duplication of Encrypt Data in Cloud
Authors: Sivasankari S. , Lavanya V. , Saranya G. , Lavanya S.
Published: May 2020

These days, Cloud storage is gaining importance among individual and institutional users. Individual and foundations looks for cloud server as a capacity medium to diminish their capacity load under nearby devices. In such storage services, it is necessary to avoid duplicate content/repetitive
storage of same data to be avoided. By reducing the duplicate content in cloud storage reduces storage cost. De-duplication is necessary when multiple data owner outsource the same data, issues related to security and ownership to be considered. As the cloud server is always considered to
be non trusted, as it is maintained by third party, thus the data stored in cloud is always encrypted and uploaded, thus randomization property of encryption affects de-duplication. It is necessary to propose a serverside de-duplication scheme for handling encrypted data. The proposed scheme
allows the cloud server to control access to outsourced data even when the ownership changes dynamically.
Application of Particle Swarm Optimisation-R Factor Optimisation Algorithm for Efficient Resource Allocation and Scheduling in Cloud Environment
Authors: Valarmathi R. , Sheela T.
Published: May 2020

Cloud computing is a powerful technology of computing which renders flexible services anywhere to the user. Resource management and task scheduling are essential perspectives of cloud computing. One of the main problems of cloud computing was task scheduling. Usually task scheduling
and resource management in cloud is a tough optimization issue at the time of considering quality of service needs. Huge works under task scheduling focuses only on deadline issues and cost optimization and it avoids the significance of availability, robustness and reliability. The main purpose
of this study is to develop an Optimized Algorithm for Efficient Resource Allocation and Scheduling in Cloud Environment. This study uses PSO and R factor algorithm. The main aim of PSO algorithm is that tasks are scheduled to VM (virtual machines) to reduce the time of waiting and
throughput of system. PSO is a technique inspired by social and collective behavior of animal swarms in nature and wherein particles search the problem space to predict near optimal or optimal solution. A hybrid algorithm combining PSO and R-factor has been developed with the purpose
of reducing the processing time, make span and cost of task execution simultaneously. The test results and simulation reveals that the proposed method offers better efficiency than the previously prevalent approaches.
Free Shipping Promotions and Product Returns
Authors: Shehu Edlira , Papies Dominik , Neslin Scott A.
Published: May 2020

Free shipping promotions have become popular among online retailers. However, little is known about their influence on consumers’ purchases, return behavior, and, ultimately, firm profit. The authors propose that free shipping promotions encourage customers to make riskier purchases, leading to more product returns. They estimate the impact of these promotions on purchase incidence, high-risk and low-risk spend, and return share. The results show that free shipping promotions increase expenditure for high-risk products, expanding their share of the consumer’s market basket and thus increasing the overall return rate. This is validated in a field experiment. A field test and an online lab experiment analyze the mechanism linking free shipping and returns. The results suggest that the free shipping effect occurs through consumers’ perceptions that free shipping serves as a risk premium compensating them for potential returns and through positive affect generated by the promotion. A simulation shows that for the focal firm, free shipping promotions increase net sales volume, but higher product returns and lost shipping revenue render these promotions unprofitable.
Clinical profile and predictors of mortality among the referred neonates at a tertiary care centre in north India: a prospective observational study
Authors: Singh Jasbir , Dalal Poonam , Gathwala Geeta
Published: May 2020

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) shows encouraging improvement in infant and under-five mortality rates in India. However, the neonatal mortality rate (NMR) still remains high as India contributes to about one-fifth of global deaths. This prospective study was conducted from 15 January to 30 April 2016 to examine the clinical profile and predictors of mortality among referred neonates at our centre. Among 301 neonates, prematurity (40%) was the most common indication for referral followed by need for ventilation (38%) and birth asphyxia (28%). Approximately 73% neonates were referred within 24 h of birth. Ninety (29.9%) neonates died; of these, 63% died within 24 h of presentation. Prematurity, birth asphyxia, hypothermia, shock at presentation and extreme low birth weight were the most significant predictors of mortality. Adequate training of peripheral health personnel, dedicated teams for neonatal referral and strengthening of peripheral sick newborn care units (SNCUs) seem to be promising interventions for favourable outcome.
Facilitators and Barriers of Sleep in Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Griggs Stephanie , Whittemore Robin , Redeker Nancy S. , Grey Margaret
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived facilitators and barriers for obtaining sufficient sleep in young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach was used to generate data. In-depth semi-structured interviews with 30 young adults with T1D (66.7% female, mean age = 22.1 years) were conducted. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded using NVivo.

Results

Young adults with T1D reported feeling challenged at bedtime and overnight by the demands of a complex disease management regimen. General and diabetes-specific barriers and facilitators to obtaining sufficient sleep were the overarching themes in the present study. Young adults perceived that electronic device use was a facilitator for relaxation before bed and a barrier to sleep by some participants. Delays in bedtime or disruptions in sleep were common diabetes-specific barriers.

Conclusions

When designing sleep-promoting interventions for young adults with T1D, researchers should consider diabetes-specific challenges and solutions in addition to those present in the general young adult population.
State Definitions on the Gifted and Talented: A Report and Analysis
Authors: Karnes Frances A. , Collins Emily C.
Published: May 2020

The definitions of the gifted and talented in fifty states were compiled through questionnaires completed by persons designated as the state director of gifted education. The definitions were analyzed to determine the number and percentage of states using the definition established by the Advisory Panel to the USOE in 1972. Additional analysis was undertaken to determine the components of the various state definitions, if both intellectually gifted and talented were included, and the degree to which states were including students with either demonstrated or potential ability.
A Preschool Program for Gifted-Handicapped Children
Authors: Blacher-Dixon Jan , Turnbull Ann P.
Published: May 2020

The Chapel Hill Gifted-Handicapped Preschool Program has developed a model of services which includes, among other areas of concentration, identification procedures, curriculum development, and community and family involvement. Such programs highlight the fact that equal educational opportunity in preschool programs does not imply “the same educational opportunity” for every child. Accordingly, the individual needs of a gifted-handicapped youngster should determine the nature of the education provided. The pre-school project presented in this paper represents an attempt to meet the unique educational needs of a heretofore neglected exceptional population.
Interest Correlates to Differential Achievement of Gifted Students in Mathematics
Authors: Fox Lynn H.
Published: May 2020

Far fewer gifted women than gifted men pursue careers in mathematical and scientific areas. In this study gifted boys and girls who were matched on measures of verbal and mathematical aptitude and socio-economic status are compared on measures of values and career interests which contribute to differential achievement. Gifted girls are less likely than the boys to have values and clearly defined career interests associated with careers in mathematics and science as early as grade seven. Girls are more interested than boys in social and aesthetic areas. Gifted girls, however, appear to have more scientific interests than girls of average ability. The implications of these findings for increasing the participation and achievement of gifted girls in mathematics and science are discussed.
Through the Eyes of Their Teachers: Stereotypes of Gifted Pupils
Authors: House Peggy A.
Published: May 2020

Teachers of the gifted enrolled in a master's program in gifted education responded to instruments designed to elicit their attitudes toward gifted children. Prior to the program their perceptions of “the typical gifted child” and “the most gifted individual whom I have taught” were highly similar. After the program, similar ratings of “the typical gifted child” and a specific pupil with whom they worked during the summer practicum were much more diverse, suggesting that they were tending to a clearer perception of individuals. They did, however, show several trends which tended to indicate the existence of certain stereotypes. In particular, there was a strong tendency to describe gifted girls in a considerably more favorable manner than gifted boys. Older pupils also tended to be described more unfavorably than younger ones (under 12 years).
Gifted and Talented Education over a Half Decade of Change
Authors: Zettel Jeffrey J.
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this article is to identify some of the more significant educational as well as political changes that have taken place during the past half decade with regard to the education of gifted and talented children. In essence, the manuscript attempts to assess much of this change by examining, and where appropriate, comparing, two recently completed nationwide investigations of gifted and talented education. The first study was conducted by former Commissioner of Education, Sidney Marland, in 1971 for the United States Congress. The second was performed by The Council for Exceptional Children in 1977. Among the individual policy-related topics discussed in the article are: present statutory definitions of gifted and talented children; state identification and screening procedures; the number of gifted and talented children reported served; state and federal appropriations for these children; the number of state level personnel assigned to work in gifted and talented education; and the in-service and preservice preparation of educational personnel interested or working in this particular field. By presenting a number of the findings and conclusions of the aforementioned studies, the article provides the reader with an overall perspective as to present nature of gifted and talented education throughout the United States.
The Etiology of Underachievement in Highly Gifted Young Children
Authors: Whitmore Joanne Rand
Published: May 2020

The author reports the findings of a clinical study of the etiology of underachievement in highly gifted primary-age children. The findings suggest that previous studies have identified symptoms rather than causes of underachievement, and that classroom conditions (i.e., social climate and academic curriculum) are principal contributors to the development of gifted underachievers. Implications drawn from the study include the need for early identification of gifted children and the provision of appropriate educational programs in order to prevent the development of the impairing behavior patterns and self-perceptions which are symptomatic of chronic underachievement in gifted children.
Definitions of Gifted and Talented Used in the United States
Authors: Wells Don
Published: May 2020

This article examines a survey and analysis of 41 State Department of Education definitions of gifted and talented. A conceptual framework of components is presented as a means of definition analysis. Definitions are examined and discussed in relation to those characteristic components. Current trends in definitions are placed in an historical context revealing the expansion and refinement of expansion components in definitions for the gifted and talented. The definition issue is discussed in relation to societal values and expectations as they pertain to gifted individuals.
Quantitative T1 mapping of the substantia nigra using phase-sensitive inversion recovery sequence at 3.0-T: a healthy volunteer study
Authors: Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Hirai Tetsuyoshi , Ueda Tomohiro , Kumazoe Hiroyuki , Ito Shigeki
Published: May 2020

Background

Quantitative evaluation of degeneration of the substantia nigra (SN) is important for early, pre-symptomatic diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Accordingly, a clinically feasible imaging and quantification technique are needed.

Purpose

To investigate the T1 value of the SN in healthy individuals from phase-sensitive inversion recovery (PSIR) images and to clarify its correlation with the SN characteristics on neuromelanin (NM) images to identify an imaging biomarker for early diagnosis of PD.

Material and Methods

T1-weighted and NM images of the SN from 32 healthy volunteers were obtained using PSIR and turbo spin-echo sequences. The contrast between the SN and cerebral peduncle (CP) and area of the SN were measured; the T1 values of the SN from PSIR images and relationships between the T1 value and age/SN area were evaluated.

Results

There was a significant negative correlation between age and the SN area obtained using PSIR imaging. The SN area on PSIR images (104.9 ± 20.9 mm2) was significantly larger than that on NM images (72.1 ± 14.9 mm2). There was a significant negative correlation between the SN area and the T1 value of the SN obtained from PSIR images.

Conclusion

In healthy adults, the area and T1 value of the SN measured on PSIR images were different from those obtained from NM images. This suggests that PSIR imaging may help in the assessment of SN degeneration.