bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Predictive Performance of Probabilistic Caries Risk Assessment Models: The Importance of Calibration
Authors: Trottini Mario , Campus Guglielmo , Corridore Denise , Cocco Fabio , Cagetti Maria Grazia , Vigo M. Isabel , Polimeni Antonella , Bossù Maurizio
Published: June 2020

Probabilistic caries risk assessment models (P-CRA), such as the Cariogram, are promising tools to planning treatments in order to control and prevent caries. The usefulness of these models for informing patients and medical decision-making depends on 2 properties known as discrimination and calibration. Current common assessment of P-CRA models, however, ignores calibration, and this can be misleading. The aim of this paper was to provide tools for a proper assessment of calibration of the P-CRA models and improve calibration when lacking. A combination of standard calibration tools (calibration plot, calibration in-the-large, and calibration slope) and 3 novel measures of calibration (the Calibration Index and 2 related metrics, E50 and E90) are proposed to evaluate if a P-CRA model is well calibrated. Moreover, an approach was proposed and validated using data from a previous follow-up study performed on children evaluated by means of a reduced Cariogram model; Platt scaling and isotonic regression were applied showing a lack of calibration. The use of the Cariogram overestimates the actual risk of new caries for forecast probabilities <0.5 and underestimates the risk for forecast probabilities >0.6. Both Platt scaling and isotonic regression were able to significantly improve the calibration of the reduced Cariogram model, preserving its discrimination properties. The average specificity and sensitivity for both Platt scaling and isotonic regression using the cut-off point p= 0.5 were >83 and their sum well exceeded 160. The benefits of the proposed calibration methods are promising, but further research in this field is required.
Proposed Definitions of Typical Lesions in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Daxhelet Mathilde , Suppa Mariano , White Jonathan , Benhadou Farida , Thorlacius Linnea Rishøj , Jemec Gregor B.E. , del Marmol Véronique , Revuz Jean
Published: June 2020

Background: Although not rare, hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is often under-recognized by physicians. The diagnosis of HS is clinical via the recognition of lesions typical of the disease, but universally accepted definitions of these latter are currently lacking, which means that certain severity scores employed for HS classification/management are used differently by different physicians. Our aim was to develop a set of descriptive definitions and associated images of HS lesions, in order to enable doctors to better recognize and evaluate the disease. Methods: MEDLINE-available literature and dermatological textbooks on HS morphology were retrieved (January 1996 to February 2016). A preliminary set of definitions of HS typical lesions was created, including 10 terms. Each term was associated with a pathophysiological classification and an image. This preliminary set was shown during the 5th Conference of the European HS Foundation (EHSF). The physicians attending the event were invited to vote on each term and make comments via a voting sheet. Results: A total of 81 physicians answered the questionnaire. Their agreement/disagreement rates and comments were used to obtain a revised set of definitions and images. Pathophysiological classifications were dropped. Conclusion: A user-friendly set of definitions/images of HS typical lesions was proposed and will need to be validated by further studies. This set could ultimately serve as a tool to better recognize, score, and assess treatment efficacy.
Effect of Intrauterine Growth Restriction on Cerebral Regional Oxygen Saturation in Preterm and Term Neonates during Immediate Postnatal Transition
Authors: Baik-Schneditz Nariae , Pichler Gerhard , Schwaberger Bernhard , Binder-Heschl Corinna , Mileder Lukas , Reiss Irwin K.H. , Avian Alexander , Greimel Patrick , Klaritsch Philipp , Urlesberger Berndt
Published: June 2020

Background: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with adverse perinatal outcome. Affected fetuses commonly display typical blood flow redistribution towards the brain (“brain sparing”). Accordingly, increased cerebral oxygen saturation has been observed in IUGR neonates within the first days of life. Aim: The aim of our study was to assess cerebral oxygenation behavior during immediate neonatal transition in IUGR infants. Methods: This is a retrospective single-center observational cohort study. Cerebral regional oxygen saturation (crSO2) was measured with near-infrared spectroscopy in neonates during the first 15 min after birth. Neonates with IUGR (IUGR group) were matched for gestational age (±1 week) and gender with neonates that were appropriate for gestational age (AGA). The AGA:IUGR matching ratio was 3:1. Arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), heart rate (HR), crSO2, and cerebral fractional tissue oxygen extraction (cFTOE) were compared between the groups. Results: Between August 2010 and October 2017, 45 neonates with IUGR were identified and matched to 135 AGA neonates. Mean gestational age was 33.1 ± 3.0 weeks in the IUGR group and 33.5 ± 2.7 weeks in the AGA group. Mean birth weight was 1,559 ± 582 g in the IUGR group and 2,051 ± 679 g in the AGA group. There was a significant group difference in crSO2 beginning at 5 min and continuing for the rest of the observation time with higher crSO2 values in the IUGR group (main effect group: p = 0.011; interaction time × group: p = 0.039). In cFTOE, a significant difference could be observed at 5–9 and 11–13 min with lower rates of oxygen extraction in the IUGR group (main effect group: p = 0.025; interaction time × group: p = 0.463). Concerning SpO2 and HR, there was no significant difference between the IUGR and the AGA neonates. Conclusion: Neonates of the IUGR group did show significantly higher crSO2 values and significantly lower cFTOE values already during immediate neonatal transition compared to the AGA group.
Die berufsqualifizierende Tätigkeit im Studiengang klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie
Authors: Wannemüller André , Friedrich Sören , Teismann Tobias , Suchan Boris , Thoma Patrizia , Margraf Jürgen , Schneider Silvia
Published: June 2020

Das Gesetz zur Reform der Psychotherapeutenausbildung bringt es mit sich, dass Studierende in Deutschland in stärkerem Maße auf die klinisch-praktische Patient*innen­behandlung vorbereitet werden müssen. Ein wichtiger Teil dieser berufsvorbereitenden Ausbildung besteht aus der sogenannten berufsqualifizierenden Tätigkeit (BQT): Im Rahmen dieser Seminare soll die Behandlung psychischer Störungen sowohl theoretisch als auch praktisch-übend vermittelt werden. Im Beitrag wird ein – auf 90 Studierende ausgerichtetes – Lehrkonzept vorgestellt, welches derzeit an der Ruhr-Universität Bochum geplant und favorisiert wird und das wir hier mit Fokus auf die Umsetzung der universitären (BQT II) und ambulanten Teile der BQT (BQT III) beschreiben. Zunächst werden die einzelnen Bestandteile der BQT und ihre Gliederung im Studienverlauf skizziert. Dann wird dargelegt, wie die in der BQT geforderte Wissensvermittlung in theoretischen Fallseminaren realisiert werden soll und wie die Studierenden dann im Rahmen der BQT III mittels praktischer Fallseminare und Therapieassistenzen in die Patient*innenbehandlung eingebunden werden sollen. Am Ende des Artikels wird die Personalbedarfsplanung für unser Konzept vorgestellt.
Retrospective Study of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Placement for Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension
Authors: Santos Sara , Dantas Eduardo , Veloso Gomes Filipe , Luz José Hugo , Vasco Costa Nuno , Bilhim Tiago , Calinas Filipe , Martins Américo , Coimbra Élia
Published: June 2020

Background and Aims: Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is used for decompressing clinically significant portal hypertension. The aims of this study were to evaluate clinical outcomes and adverse events associated with this procedure. Methods: Retrospective single-center study including 78 patients submitted to TIPS placement between January 2015 and November 2018. Follow-up data were missing in 27 patients, and finally 51 patients were included in the study sample. Data collected from individual registries included demographics, comorbidities, laboratory results, complications, and clinical results according to the indication. Results: Averagepre-TIPS portosystemic pressure gradient decreased from 18.1 ± 5 to 6 ± 3 mm Hg after TIPS placement. Indications for TIPS were refractory ascites (63%, n = 49), recurrent or uncontrolled variceal bleeding (36%, n = 28), and Budd-Chiari syndrome (1.3%, n = 1). TIPS-related adverse events occurred in 29/51 (56.8%) patients, with hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in 21 (41%) patients, sepsis in 3, liver failure in 2, hemolytic anemia in 1, acute pulmonary edema in 1, and capsular perforation in 1 patient. Mean follow-up was 15.7 ± 15 months. First-month mortality was 11.7% (n = 6) (sepsis, n = 3; acute liver failure, n = 2; and recurrence of variceal bleeding, n = 1) and was significantly higher for patients with Child-Pugh >9 points (p = 0.01), model of end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores >19 (p = 0.02), and for patients with a history of HE before the procedure (p = 0.001). Older age (p = 0.006) and higher levels of creatinine (p = 0.008) were significantly higher in patients developing HE after TIPS. Ascites persisted in 21.2% (7/33 patients) and was more frequent in patients with lower baseline albumin levels (p = 0.003). Recurrent variceal bleeding occurred in 22% (n = 4/18 patients) and was more frequent in patients with lower baseline hemoglobin levels (p = 0.03). Conclusion: TIPS is effective in up to 80% of patients presenting with variceal bleeding or refractory ascites. Careful patient selection based on age and HE history may reduce adverse events after TIPS.
Adenokarzinome des Magens und des gastroösophagealen Übergangs: Kooperationsprojekte bieten neue Chancen
Authors: Lorenzen Sylvie
Published: June 2020

The aim of this manuscript is to discuss the viewpoint of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Gastric Cancer Taskforce and Japan Clinical Oncology Group (JCOG) Gastric Cancer Study Group on the current challenges in the multidisciplinary management of stage II-III gastric and gastro-oesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. We seek to outline how these challenges are addressed in current trials of both groups. Key elements of future trials of EORTC and JCOG in this indication are described, and a joint vision on how multidisciplinary research of gastric and GEJ cancer patients should be organised is outlined.
An Unexplained Case of Progressive Spastic Paraparesis in an Individual with Known DiGeorge Syndrome
Authors: Dhoot Roshni , Payne Katelyn , Fink John K. , Pascuzzi Robert M.
Published: June 2020

DiGeorge syndrome (22q11.2 deletion) is associated with several neurologic disorders including structural abnormalities involving brain and spine, movement disorders, and epilepsy. Progressive spastic paraparesis has not been reported with DiGeorge syndrome. We report an individual in which DiGeorge syndrome was associated with progressive spastic paraparesis. This report extends the clinical phenotype of DiGeorge syndrome and presents the differential diagnosis of progressive spastic paraparesis in individuals with DiGeorge syndrome which provides insight into the clinical evaluation of such individuals.
Metastasiertes kolorektales Karzinom: Relevante Faktoren für eine erfolgreiche Konversionstherapie und das Überleben
Authors: Homayounfar Kia
Published: June 2020

Background: Tumor assessments after first-line therapy of RAS wild-type mCRC with cetuximab (cet) versus bevacizumab (bev) in combination with FOLFIRI were evaluated for factors influencing resectability, conversion to resectability, and survival after best response. Methods: Conversion to resectability was defined as conversion of initially unresectable to resectable disease at best response as determined by retrospective assessment. Univariate and multivariate logistic models were fitted with resectability at best response as response variable. A Cox model comparing the survival from best response was used to measure the influence of treatment, resectability at best response, and resection. Interaction of resection and treatment arm on survival was tested by likelihood ratio test. Results: Overall, 270 patients were evaluable (127 cet-arm, 143 bev-arm). Lung metastases (odds ratio [OR] 0.35, 95% confidence response [CI] 0.19-0.63), BRAF mutation (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.12-0.82), and elevated alkaline phosphatase (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.18-0.9) before randomization were associated with less chance of successful conversion and were integrated into a nomogram. Early tumor shrinkage (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.06-3.3; p=0.034) and depth of response (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.03; p<0.001) were associated with successful conversion therapy. Resection of metastases improved post-best-response survival (hazard ratio 0.53, 95% CI 0.29-0.97; p=0.039), predominantely in cet-treated patients (interaction test, p=0.02). Conclusions: Conversion to resectability is significantly associated with baseline characteristics that can be used in a nomogram to predict conversion. Moreover, early efficacy parameters (ETS and DpR) are associated with successful conversion therapy. In FIRE-3, resection of metastases was associated with improved post-best response survival, this effect originated predominantly from the cetuximab-based study arm.
Mammakarzinom: Therapieergänzung zeigt große Wirkung
Authors: Banys-Paluchowski Maggie
Published: June 2020

Zu den Studien,MONARCH 2-Studie [1]. An dieser randomisierten Phase-III-Doppelblindstudie nahmen 142 Zentren in 19 Ländern teil. Es wurden insgesamt 669 Patientinnen mit metastasiertem Mammakarzinom behandelt. Zu den wichtigsten Einschlusskriterien gehörten: HR-positiver HER2-negativer Subtyp und ein Progress während oder innerhalb von 12 Monaten nach Abschluss der adjuvanten endokrinen Therapie bzw. ein Progress unter First-line endokriner Therapie im metastasierten Setting. Patientinnen, die bereits in der metastasierten Situation eine Chemotherapie oder mehr als eine Linie endokriner Therapie erhielten, waren von der Studie ausgeschlossen. Es wurde in 2 Arme im Verhältnis 2:1 randomisiert. Im Abemaciclib-Arm erhielten die Patientinnen eine Kombination aus Abemaciclib (150mg p.o. zweimal täglich) mit Fulvestrant (500mg i.m. q4w und zusätzlich eine weitere Dosis am Tag 15 des 1. Zyklus). Im endokrinen Arm bestand die Behandlung aus Fulvestrant mit Placebo. Die Therapie wurde bis zur Progression bzw. dem Auftreten inakzeptabler Toxizität fortgeführt. MONALEESA-3-Studie [2]. In dieser Placebo-kontrollierten Phase-III-Studie wurden insgesamt 726 Patientinnen mit metastasiertem Mammakarzinom im 2:1-Verhältnis in folgende Arme randomisiert: Fulvestrant (500mg i.m. q4w und zusätzlich eine weitere Dosis am Tag 15 des 1. Zyklus) mit Ribociclib (600mg p.o. tgl. Tag 1-21 q4w) vs. Fulvestrant mit Placebo. Alle Patientinnen hatten eine HR-positive HER2-negative Erkrankung und waren postmenopausal. Es war maximal eine Linie der endokrinen Therapie im metastasierten Setting erlaubt. Anders als bei der MONARCH 2-Studie konnten in die MONALEESA-3-Studie auch Frauen ohne eine vorausgegangene Systemtherapie eingeschlossen werden.
The Ethics of Precision Rationing: Human Genetics and the Need for Debate on Stratifying Access to Medication
Authors: Walker Alexis , Boyce Angie , Duggal Priya , Thio Chloe L. , Geller Gail
Published: June 2020

Rising prices for new, transformative therapies are challenging health systems around the world, leading many payers and providers to begin rationing access to treatments, even in the countries that have been most resistant to doing so. This is the case for direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, little attention has been paid to the increasing role that human genetics might play in rationing decisions. Researchers have already proposed that genetic markers associated with spontaneous HCV clearance could be used to restrict DAA access for some patients, although treatment would be medically beneficial for those patients. Would such forms of rationing present a form of genetic discrimination? And what of the public health implications of these approaches? Here we present an ethical analysis of such proposals for “precision rationing” and raise 4 key areas of concern. We argue that ethical issues arising in this area are not substantively different from the pressing ethical issues regarding rationing and discrimination more broadly, but provide important impetus for motivating broad public debate to find ethically sound ways of managing genomics and new expensive medications.
Krebsnachsorge: Kinder, Heranwachsende und junge Erwachsene sind einem hohen Risiko für Langzeitfolgen ausgesetzt
Authors: Zimmermann Tanja
Published: June 2020

Background: Improved, multimodal treatment strategies have been shown to increase cure rates in cancer patients. Those who survive cancer as a child, adolescent or young adult (CAYA), are at a higher risk for therapy-, or diseaserelated, late or long-term effects. The CARE for CAYA-Program has been developed to comprehensively assess any potential future problems, to offer need-based preventative interventions and thus to improve long-term outcomes in this particularly vulnerable population. Methods: The trial is designed as an adaptive trial with an annual comprehensive assessment followed by needs stratified, modular interventions, currently including physical activity, nutrition and psycho-oncology, all aimed at improving the lifestyle and/or the psychosocial situation of the patients. Patients, aged 15-39 years old, with a prior cancer diagnosis, who have completed tumour therapy and are in follow-up care, and who are tumour free, will be included. At baseline (and subsequently on an annual basis) the current medical and psychosocial situation and lifestyle of the participants will be assessed using a survey compiled of various validated questionnaires (e.g. EORTC QLQ C30, NCCN distress thermometer, PHQ-4, BSA, nutrition protocol) and objective parameters (e.g. BMI, WHR, comorbidities like hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, diabetes), followed by basic care (psychological and lifestyle consultation). Depending on their needs, CAYAs will be allocated to preventative interventions in the abovementioned modules over a 12-month period. After 1 year, the assessment will be repeated, and further interventions may be applied as needed. During the initial trial phase, the efficacy of this approach will be compared to standard care (waiting list with intervention in the following year) in a randomized study. During this phase, 530 CAYAs will be included and 320 eligible CAYAs who are willing to participate in the interventions will be randomly allocated to an intervention. Overall, 1500 CAYAs will be included and assessed. The programme is financed by the innovation fund of the German Federal Joint Committee and will be conducted at 14 German sites. Recruitment began in January 2018. Discussion: CAYAs are at high risk for long-term sequelae. Providing structured interventions to improve lifestyle and psychological situation may counteract against these risk factors. The programme serves to establish uniform regular comprehensive assessments and need-based interventions to improve long-term outcome in CAYA survivors. Trial registration: Registered at the German Clinical Trial Register (ID: DRKS00012504, registration date: 19th January 2018).
A Case of Recurrent Chalazia Associated with Subclinical Hypothyroidism
Authors: Bipat Robbert , Jiawan Dineshpersad , Toelsie Jerry R.
Published: June 2020

Chalazia are chronic inflammatory disorders of the Meibomian glands of the eyelids that can present at any age. Although the exact cause is still obscure, they are often associated with retention of lipids in these sebaceous glands, infections, or disturbances in the balance of sex hormones. The complications of the disease may vary from little discomfort to reduced vision. Treatment strategies include hot compresses, intralesional steroid injections, and incision and curettage. The present case is about a female in her forties with a 4-year long history of recurrent chalazia. The management of the majority of the lesions was through incision and curettage. Concomitantly she presented with subclinical hypothyroidism, for which she received treatment. During treatment of the hypothyroidism, there was a remission of the chalazia. After cessation of the treatment with levothyroxine, the chalazia started recurring. Reinstatement of a low-dose treatment with levothyroxine eventually led to a remission and prevented further recurrence of the chalazia. Subclinical hypothyroidism may predispose to recurrent chalazia. This finding may have consequences for the understanding of the pathophysiology and the management of this disorder. Further investigations must elicit the exact mechanism of this association.
Avifauna of the region of the Volta Grande Hydroelectric Power Plant in Southeast Brazil
Authors: Mafia Pedro De Oliveira , Azevedo Cristiano Schetini de
Published: June 2020

The Volta Grande region in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais is classified as of “High Biological Importance” for the conservation of birds in the state. Despite this, the avifauna of the region has yet to be adequately sampled, as evidenced by the few papers on the region in ornithological literature. The results of an avifaunal inventory conducted between March 2013 and January 2014 in five sites located throughout the region of the Volta Grande Hydroelectric Power Plant in Southeast Brazil are presented. Point-counts, ad libitum observations and mist-nets recorded 224 species for the region, with insectivorous and omnivorous being the predominant feeding habits. Species that are “independent” of forest habitats comprised 52% of the recorded species. Three species are endemics of the Cerrado, 83 are migratory and 32 are under some degree of threat of extinction. These findings demonstrate that the region of the Volta Grande Hydroelectric Power Plant is important for bird conservation. Additional inventories, adequate management plans and public policies aimed the preserving species are needed for more effective conservation of the biodiversity of the studied region.
New and additional records of Metharpinia Schellenberg, 1931 and Microphoxus Barnard, 1960 (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Phoxocephalidae) from Brazilian waters
Authors: Andrade Luiz F. , Senna André R.
Published: June 2020

New records of the species Metharpinia dentiurosoma Alonso de Pina, 2003, M. grandirama Alonso de Pina, 2003, M. iado Alonso de Pina, 2003, Microphoxus cornutus (Schellenberg, 1931) and Mi. uroserratus Bustamante, 2002 are reported for Brazilian waters. A discussion about the Metharpinia-Microphoxus complex is presented based on literature review and new observations of sampled species. Emended diagnoses are presented for the recorded species of Metharpinia and identification keys to world species of Metharpinia and Microphoxus are provided.
Phylogeny and classification of the Bucconidae (Aves, Galbuliformes) based on osteological characters
Authors: Posso Sérgio Roberto , Donatelli Reginaldo José , Piacentini Vitor Q. , Guzzi Anderson
Published: June 2020

The puffbirds (Bucconidae) are relatively poorly studied birds whose intrafamilial relationships have not yet been explored within a phylogenetic framework in a published study. Here, we performed a parsimony analysis of osteological data obtained following the examination of all the genera and 32 out of the 36 species recognized in Bucconidae currently. The analysis yielded eight equally parsimonious trees (426 minimum steps). Ambiguous relationships were observed only in Notharcus ordii, Malacoptila fusca, and Nonnula rubecula. Notably, Bucco was polyphyletic, leading to the resurrection of Cyphos and Tamatia. In addition, the osteological data provided a well-resolved phylogeny (topological dichotomies) and the support indices indicated that most of the nodes were robust at all hierarchical levels. We thus propose the first revised classification of the Bucconidae.
Popper as a process: revisiting the appropriation of the Popperian philosophy by the cladists during the “systematics wars”
Authors: Santis Marcelo Domingos de
Published: June 2020

The philosophy of Karl Popper was strongly used by the cladists in their battle against evolutionary and numerical taxonomy. It became known as “Systematics Wars” by David Hull. His historical account in Science as a Process, described the outcome of that era that end up with the victory of cladistics. Claiming it as hypothetico-deductivist, and falsificationist, cladists have transformed and distorted Popper, that almost nothing of these ideas survived scrutiny. One of the Hull’s conclusion was that the success of cladistics was largely due to their ability to maintain social cohesion and intellectual orthodoxy during the years of the Systematic Wars. In this paper, I will provide a concise historical development about the appropriation of Popper’s ideas that were used by systematics, both as a defense and as a critic, trying to make clear the interpretations of these authors in relation to Popper and their research program. Using David Hull’s General Theory of Selection Processes, I will argue that these facts were, partially, to a heavy adherence to Popper’s philosophy.
KnowID: An Architecture for Efficient Knowledge-Driven Information and Data Access
Authors: Fillottrani Pablo Rubén , Keet C. Maria
Published: June 2020

Modern information systems require the orchestration of ontologies, conceptual data modeling techniques, and efficient data management so as to provide a means for better informed decision-making and to keep up with new requirements in organizational needs. A major question in delivering such systems, is which components to design and put together to make up the required “knowledge to data” pipeline, as each component and process has trade-offs. In this paper, we introduce a new knowledge-to-data architecture, KnowID. It pulls together both recently proposed components and we add novel transformation rules between Enhanced Entity-Relationship (EER) and the Abstract Relational Model to complete the pipeline. KnowID's main distinctive architectural features, compared to other ontology-based data access approaches, are that runtime use can avail of the closed world assumption commonly used in information systems and of full SQL augmented with path queries.
Dispute Settlement Mechanisms in African Regional Economic Communities: Lessons and New Developments
Authors: Bore Obert
Published: June 2020

African regional trade agreements often provide for dispute settlement mechanisms and procedures that should be followed. They also establish judicial bodies or tribunals for the respective African Regional Economic Communities. Despite the existence of judicial bodies, African governments do not usually litigate against each other on trade-related disputes. However, the few cases adjudicated by the regional judicial bodies are insightful of how contemporary trade disputes shape the development of community law. With reference to case law, this article presents lessons from regional judicial bodies. Notwithstanding the lessons learnt, there are challenges too. In response to the challenges, new developments on the continent, adopted through the African Continental Free Trade Area signal a move towards respecting rules-based trade through ensuring legal predictability and certainty for trade dispute settlement. Thus, this article will also provide a detailed analysis of the dispute settlement mechanism under the African Continental Free Trade Area, a system akin to World Trade Organisation.
Synopsis of the carpenter bee subgenus Xylocopa (Schonnherria) Lepeletier, 1841 (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in Colombia, with designation of lectotypes and the description of two new species
Authors: VILLAMIZAR GERMÁN , FERNÁNDEZ FERNANDO , VIVALLO FELIPE
Published: June 2020

A synopsis of the metallic carpenter bees Xylocopa subgenus Schonnherria Lepeletier in Colombia is presented. Eleven species were recognized: X. dimidiata Latreille, X. ecuadorica Cockerell, X. lateralis Say, X. lucida Smith, X. metallica Smith, X. muscaria (Fabricius), X. ornata Smith, X. viridis Smith, and X. simillima Smith, being this latter a new record for the country. In addition, two new species are described: X. auriventris n. sp. and X. romeroi n. sp. from the Colombian Andean and Pacific region, respectively. To stabilize the application of some names, lectotypes were designated for X. binotata Pérez (=X. lateralis), X. muscaria, X. ornata, X. simillima and X. viridis. Diagnoses, descriptions, comments, floral records, distribution maps, figures and an identification key are also provided.
Four new species and one new subspecies of the Ghoria albocinerea Moore, 1878 species-group from northern Indochina and China (Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae, Lithosiini)
Authors: VOLYNKIN ANTON V. , SALDAITIS AIDAS , ČERNÝ KAREL
Published: June 2020

The Ghoria albocinerea Moore, 1878 species-group is established for a complex of species having the characteristic silver whitish forewing coloration and pattern presented mostly by a broad longitudinal shade along the anal wing margin. Four new species and one new subspecies of the species-group are described: Ghoria nanlingica dytiko ssp. n. (China: Sichuan), Ghoria dammay sp. n. (North Vietnam), Ghoria longivesica sp. n. (China: Yunnan and North Thailand), Ghoria mubupa sp. n. (China: Yunnan) and Ghoria synnefo sp. n. (North Vietnam). Adults, male and female genitalia of the new taxa and the related Ghoria albocinerea (the central and eastern Himalayas), Ghoria nanlingica Dubatolov, Kishida & Wang, 2012 (China: Guangdong) and Ghoria sinotibetica Dubatolov, Kishida & Wang, 2012 (China: Sichuan) are illustrated.
Comparative morphology of myrmecophilous immature stages of European Microdon species (Diptera: Syrphidae): updated identification key and new diagnostic characters
Authors: SCARPARO GIULIA , WOLTON ROBERT , MOLFINI MARCO , PINNA LUIGI CAO , GIULIO ANDREA DI
Published: June 2020

Hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae) of the genus Microdon Meigen have larvae that live in ant nests where they are predatory on ant larvae. Reflecting the exceptional challenges of this very specialized lifestyle, Microdon eggs, larvae and puparia are highly distinctive in their morphology. Detailed descriptions of these immature stages is, however, lacking for all but a very few species, and much of this has been limited through the sole use of light microscopes. Here, using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), we present detailed, comparative descriptions of the immature stages of three European Microdon species: M. analis, M. devius and M. myrmicae. Given that many adult Microdon species are very similar to each other in their outward appearance, we demonstrate that the morphology of their immature stages can improve our understanding of the phylogeny of the genus. We also discuss how particular adaptations of the immature morphology may allow their myrmecophilous life within ant nests. In this paper new diagnostic features are also presented to distinguish M. myrmicae from its sibling species M. mutabilis—the two are morphologically indistinguishable as adults.
Taxonomy of Iranian Gonatopodinae (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae), with description of a new species
Authors: DERAFSHAN HOSSEIN ALI , OLMI MASSIMO , RAKHSHANI EHSAN
Published: June 2020

Gonatopodinae (Hymenoptera, Chrysidoidea, Dryinidae) of Iran, were taxonomically reviewed. A recent sampling in South-Eastern Iran has led to the identification of eight species belonging to three different genera, Echthrodelphax Perkins (one species), Gonatopus Ljungh (six species), and Haplogonatopus Perkins (one species). A new species, Gonatopus opsiicida Rakhshani & Olmi sp. nov. is described and Illustrated. It was found  in association with leafhoppers on Tamarix stricta Boiss., in Hamoon international wetlands (Sistan, Iran). Two species, E. tauricus Ponomarenko and G. lunatus Klug, are recorded for the first time from Iran A description was also provided for the previously recorded species. The key for identification and distribution maps are also provided for the known species of Gonatopodinae in Iran.
Description of a new species in the genus Bythotrephes Leydig, 1860 (Crustacea: Cladocera: Onychopoda), supplements to selected species, and concluding remarks on the genus
Authors: KOROVCHINSKY NIKOLAI M.
Published: June 2020

A new species of the genus Bythotrephes is described based on material collected in the mountain lakes of Tyva Republic (Southern Siberia, Russia). The representatives of the new species are especially close to those of B. longimanus having long tl I, straight caudal process, and only two pairs of claws on postabdomen and caudal process, respectively. At the same time, the new species is, on average, smaller with shorter caudal process and fairly long apical setae of second endopodital segment of the thoracic limbs of first pair (tl I). Supplemental data on morphology, taxonomy, and geographic distribution of other species of the genus, e.g., B. arcticus, B. cederströmii, B. brevimanus, and B. lilljeborgi, are presented. For B. cederströmii, in particular, females of first generation hatched from resting eggs are described for the first time. Classification of the genus is discussed and an updated key for species and a hybrid form is presented. The highest species richness of the genus, observed within the Scandinavian Peninsula and in the north of European Russia, may indicate the central region of primary speciation which generally coincides with the region of the last Quaternary maximum glaciation. The isolated occurrence of three species, B. longimanus, B. transcaucasicus, and B. centralasiaticus sp. nov. on the southern border of the genus’ range, in pre-Alpine and mountain lakes of Europe, Transcaucasia, and Southern Siberia (Tyva) and isolated localities of B. arcticus in Northern Kazakhstan, could also be due to the effect of glaciation(s). Regarding the origin of the genus Bythotrephes, it is hypothesized that it occurred in pre-Pleistocene time in the ancient Ponto-Caspian basin, experiencing large-scale transgressions, where the intensive radiation of ancestral Onychopoda probably took place.
Taxonomic revision of the subfamily Cladonotinae (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae) from China with description of three new species
Authors: DENG WEI-AN
Published: June 2020

The Chinese genera and species of the subfamily Cladonotinae are reviewed. A checklist is given for all genera and species. Three new species are described from China: Pseudepitettix hainanensis sp. nov. (Hainan prov.), Pseudepitettix strictivertex sp. nov. (Hainan prov.) and Tuberfemurus convexa sp. nov. (Zhejiang prov.). New synonymies are proposed: Deltonotus hainanensis Zheng & Liang, 1985 = Deltonotus wuzhishanensis Lin & Zheng, 2014, syn. nov., Gibbotettix emeiensis Zheng, 1992 = Gibbotettix serrifemura Deng, Zheng & Wei, 2016, syn. nov., Gibbotettix emeiensis Zheng, 1992 = Gibbotettix longivalva Zha & Li, 2018, syn. nov., Pseudepitettix nigritibis Zheng & Jiang, 2000 = Tuberfemurus liboensis Deng, Zheng & Wei, 2009, syn. nov., Yunnantettix bannaensis Zheng, 1995 = Yunnantettix variabilis Zha & Wen, 2016, syn. nov., Yunnantettix thaicus Storozhenko & Pushkar, 2015 = Yunnantettix nanensis Zha & Wen, 2015, syn. nov. Four new combinations are established: Epitettix guangxiensis (Zheng & Jiang, 1994), comb. nov., Epitettix yunnanensis (Zheng, 1995), comb. nov., Gibbotettix undatimarginis (Deng & Zheng, 2012), comb. nov., Pseudepitettix torulosinota (Zheng & Lin, 2016), comb. nov.
Global malmquist index for measuring the economic productivity changes
Authors: Mombini Esmaeil , Rostamy-Malkhalifeh Mohsen , Saraj Mansor , Zahraei Mohsen , Tayebi Khorami Reza
Published: June 2020

Data envelopment analysis is a nonparametric method for measuring of the performance of decision-making units—which do not need to have or compute a firm’s production function, which is often difficult to calculate. For any manager, the progress or setback of the thing they manage is important because it makes planning and adoption of future policies for the organization or decision-making unit more rational and scientific. Different methods have been used to calculate the improvements and regressions using Malmquist Index. In this article, we evaluate the units under review in terms of economic efficiency, and the units in terms of spending, production, revenue and profit over several periods, and the rate of improvement or regression of each of these units. Considering the minimal use of resources and consuming less money, generating more revenue, and maximizing profits, the improvement or retreat of the recipient’s decision unit in terms of cost, revenue, and profit was examined by presenting a method based on solving linear programming models using the productivity index is Malmquist and Malmquist Global. Finally, by designing and solving a numerical example, we emphasize and test the applicability of the material presented in this article.
Modeling and optimization of machining parameters in milling of INCONEL-800 super alloy considering energy, productivity, and quality using nanoparticle suspended lubrication
Authors: Hsiao Te-Ching , Vu Ngoc-Chien , Tsai Ming-Chang , Dang Xuan-Phuong , Huang Shyh-Chour
Published: June 2020

Inconel-800 super alloy is a newly difficult-to-cut material. To improve the cutting conditions for this metal, sustainable methods in which minimum quantity lubrication enhanced with suspended nanoparticle were employed. This work also aims to model the relationship between process parameters (cutting speed, feed per tooth, depth of cut, and corner radius of cutting tool) and machining responses (surface roughness, specific cutting energy, cutting power, and material removal rate) using orthogonal array design of experiment and response surface methodology. Non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm was used to solve the multi-objective optimization problems in terms of energy, productivity, and quality of the machining process. The results indicate that the application of the response surface methodology model in combination with non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is appropriate for this study due to the goodness of fit of response surface methodology and the global optimum solution of genetic algorithm. Because multi-objective optimization gives multiple solutions, Pareto plot and data mining are employed to support the selection of process parameters that can save time and cost and increase energy efficiency, meanwhile, simultaneously improve productivity and surface quality. The research results show that the specific cutting energy and energy consumption can be reduced up to 20.2% and 6.4%, respectively.
Spring in London with Covid-19: a personal view
Authors: Brahams Diana
Published: June 2020

This is a personal view from London as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to spread here and the situation changes from day to day. As such it can only be a snapshot caught in time; it is not a diary of events. The Coronavirus Act 2020 gives Government enormous powers and was passed by Parliament in one day of debate immediately before it closed early for the Easter break. In March, the government imposed a “lockdown: the closure of all” but “essential” businesses and people other than essential workers must work from home but are allowed out for exercise and food shopping but must maintain 2 m apart, the “social distancing rule”. The aim is to suppress the spread of the virus, reduce the death toll and “protect the National Health Service (NHS)” which needed time to empty wards and expand its intensive care unit (ICU) capability to deal with an expected influx of thousands of very sick patients. I discuss whether this strategy is working, how and why it has rapidly been altered to respond to criticism. Why was the Government so slow to seek the help of private laboratories to assist with testing? Why was the personal protective equipment (PPE) guidance altered only after criticism? I look at the impact of the lockdown on the UK economy, the changes to practice of medicine and speeding of scientific research. Cooperating with the lockdown has its price; is it harming the health and mental health of children, people living in households with potentially abusive partners or parents and those who are disabled or financially desperate? Is the cure worse than the disease? The Economy is being devastated by the lockdown and each day of lockdown it is worse. Is litigation being seeded even now by the pandemic? Notwithstanding unprecedented Government financial help many businesses are on the edge of collapse, people will lose their jobs and pensioners income. The winners include pharmacies, supermarkets, online food retailers, Amazon, online apps, providers of video games, services, streaming and scientific research laboratories, manufacturers of testing kits, ventilators, hand sanitisers, coffins, undertakers, etc. The British public is cooperating with lockdown but are we less productive at home? Parents with babies and children often child minders, school, grandparents or paid help which is not now available. Will current reliance on video-conferencing and video calls permanently change the way we work and will we need smaller city offices? Will we travel less? Will medical and legal practice and civil and criminal trials be generally carried out remotely? Will social distancing with self-isolation and job losses and business failures fuel depression? Is Covid-19 comparable to past epidemics like the Plague and Spanish flu?
Analysis of Population Representation Among Willed Whole-Body Donors to Facilitate the Construction of a Body Donation Program in China: From the Perspective of Medical Students and Anatomists
Authors: Zhang Hanlin , Chen Kang , Wang Naili , Zhang Di , Zhang Qing , Tang Keyun , Wan Mengyao , Gong Changlin , Hong Xinyu , Qiu Wenying , Rizzolo Lawrence J. , Ma Chao
Published: June 2020

The body donation program of Peking Union Medical College was established in May 1999. From May 1999 to December 2017, a total of 5,576 registrants registered and 1,459 donors donated their bodies. Demographic and medical characteristics of the donors were analyzed. The top four causes of death were neoplasms, heart diseases, respiratory diseases, and cerebrovascular diseases. Age at death among donors who died of neoplasms were significantly lower than other causes of death (all p < .05), and the interval between registration and donation among donors who died of neoplasms was significantly shorter than that among donors with other causes (all p < .001). The age of donors when they registered ( p < .001) and donated ( p < .001) was significantly older than that of general Beijing population. This study may provide a guide for medical colleges or research institutions to establish or enhance their own body donation programs.
Working Memory Load Selectively Influences Response Inhibition in a Stop Signal Task
Authors: Boucher Leanne , Viparina Brandi , Collins W. Matthew
Published: June 2020

Inhibitory control is a key executive function and has been studied extensively using the stop signal task. By applying a simple race model that posits an independent race between a GO process responsible for initiation of responses and a STOP process responsible for inhibition of responses, one can estimate how long it takes an individual to inhibit an ongoing response, the stop signal reaction time. Here, we examined how stop signal reaction time can be affected by working memory. Participants engaged in a dual task; they completed a stop signal task under low and high working memory load conditions. Working memory capacity was also measured. We found that the STOP process was lengthened in the high, compared to the low, working memory load condition, as evidenced by differences in stop signal reaction time. The GO process was unaffected and working memory capacity could not account for differences across the load conditions. These results indicate that inhibitory control can be influenced by placing demands on working memory.
A rapid performance evaluation approach for lower mobility hybrid robot based on gravity-center position
Authors: Wang Chensheng , Su Fang , Zhao Yanqin , Liu Hongda , Guo Yonghao , Niu Wentie
Published: June 2020

This article develops a rapid performance evaluation approach for lower mobility hybrid robot, which provides guidance for manipulator evaluation, design, and optimization. First, a general position vector model of gravity center for the lower mobility hybrid robot in the whole workspace is constructed based on a general inverse kinematic model. A performance evaluation index based on gravity-center position is then proposed, where the coordinates pointing to the supporting direction are selected as the evaluation index of the robot performance. Furthermore, the credibility of the evaluation approach is verified from a 5-DOF hybrid robot (TriMule) by comparing with the condition number and the first natural frequency. Analysis results demonstrate that the evaluation index can not only reflect the performance spatial distribution in the whole workspace but also is sensitive to the performance difference caused by mass distribution. The proposed performance evaluation approach provides a new index for the rapid design and optimization of the cantilever robot.
Measuring and multilevel fuzzy comprehensive predicting comfort parameters of soft materials by a new handle evaluation system
Authors: Sun Yi , Shao Yawen , Zheng Dongming , Liu Gui , Pan Xingxing , Du Zhaoqun
Published: June 2020

In this paper, a multilevel fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) model consisting of tactile comfort and four primary handle characteristics (FPHCs) is developed. The physiological perceptions of 30 home textile fabrics were predicted, to verify the practicability of the FCE model and the reliability of the objective measurement based on the self-developed Quick-Intelligent Handle Evaluation System (QIHES). Moreover, comparisons between the FCE model and subjective evaluation of the FPHCs and total handle value (THV) were investigated. The results showed that the values of the coefficients of determination ( R2) and the slopes of linear correlation functions were approximate to 1, which revealed that the results of the FCE model and subjective evaluation were highly consistent, and the FCE model established was accurate. In addition, the performance of the soft fabrics depends on the combined effect of the properties of three directions. It has been confirmed that the fullness, stiffness and roughness are important factors that affect THV together. Thus, the FCE method based on the QIHES measurement was demonstrated to be effective and reliable, could be applied for assessing tactile comfort and estimating human feel when touching textiles and soft materials.
Racialized Experiences Off and On Campus: Contextualizing Latina/o Students’ Perceptions of Climate at an Emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI)
Authors: Cuellar Marcela G. , Johnson-Ahorlu R. Nicole
Published: June 2020

This study examines Latina/o student perceptions of the campus climate at an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) with attention to how external factors (sociohistorical and local contexts) inform these views. Through focus groups, the findings show that Latina/os students’ positive and negative views of the climate are shaped by their racialized experiences on and off campus. As emerging HSIs consider how to more intentionally serve a growing Latina/o student body, leaders at these institutions must be particularly attune to external contexts since the climate on campus can either perpetuate or actively counter negative racialized experiences among Latina/os.