bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neolymphogenesis and Immunogistogochemical Study of Lymph Nodes in Breast Cancer
Authors: Gantsev Sh. Kh. , Rustamkhanov R. A. , Kzyrgalin Sh. R. , Tursumetov D. S.
Published: January 2020

Background. Our previous studies have shown that postnatally formed lymph nodes (PNFLN) can serve as a source of biological signals activating antitumour immune reactions and suppressing the spread of metastatic malignant cells.

Aim. To determine the expression of CD3, CD20, CD68 in native, sentinel and postnatally induced lymph nodes of the axillary zone in breast cancer.

Materials and methods. The study involved an analysis of digitalized images of the immunohistochemical expression of a fixed panel of antibodies CD3, CD20, CD68. The expression levels were assessed quantitatively by counting the expressed cells in each studied node for four main structural and functional zones.

Results and Discussion. The results of a comparative immunohistochemical study of native, sentinel and postnatally induced lymph nodes showed that the content of CD3, CD20, CD68 demonstrates fundamental differences in different lymph node structures.

Сonclusions1. In postnatally induced lymph nodes, compared to native and sentinel lymph nodes, the distinct expression of antibodies to the main immunocompetent cells, which realize key immune responses in the lymph node, can indicate an increased functional status of the newly formed lymph nodes. 2. The study demonstrated a high level of antigenic stimulation of T and B lymphocytes in postnatally induced lymph nodes, as well as indicated a possible role of macrophage cells in the stimulation of neolymphogenesis and the formation of new lymph nodes. 3. The study provides the basis for further research into postnatal induced lymph nodes in cancer patients.
Exosomal Long NonCoding Rnas as Cancer Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Beylerli O. A. , Gareev I. F. , Pavlov V. N. , Shiguang Zhao , Xin Chen , Kudriashov V. V.
Published: January 2020

Extensive study of extracellular vesicles began about ten years ago. Exosomes are extracellular membrane vesicles 30–100 nm in diameter secreted by various types of cells and present in most biological fluids. For a long time they were considered non-functional cellular components. However, it has been proven that they serve as a means of intercellular exchange of information. They can move bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA. Several studies have shown that their contents, including proteins and non-coding nucleic acids, may be of particular interest as biomarkers of diseases. The most promising of all these molecules are non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). LncRNAs are a large group of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) longer than 200 nucleotides. As regulatory factors lncRNAs play an important role in complex cellular processes, such as apoptosis, growth, differentiation, proliferation, etc. Despite many advances in diagnosis and treatment (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy), cancer remains one of the most important public healthcare problems worldwide. Every day brings a better understanding of the role of exosomes in the development of cancer and metastases. Liquid biopsy has been developed as a method for the detection of cancer at an early stage. This is a series of minimally invasive tests of bodily fluids offering the advantage of real-time tracking of the tumour development. In fact, circulating exosomal lncRNAs have been found to be closely linked to processes of oncogenesis, metastasis and treatment. In this paper we review current studies into the functional role of exosomal lncRNAs in cancer and discuss their potential clinical use as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancer.
Department of Oncology of Bashkir State Medical University: from Early Days to New Horizons
Authors: Gantsev Sh. Kh.
Published: January 2020

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Görsel Sanatlar Ders Materyali Geliştirme Sürecinde ARCS Motivasyon Modelinin Kullanımı
Authors: LAÇİNBAY Kerim , YILMAZ Meliha
Published: January 2020

Bu çalışmada; deneysel desen modellerinden, eşleştiril-miş ön test-son test kontrol gruplu seçkisiz desen modeli kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubu Gazi Üniversite-si, Resim – İş Eğitimi Anabilim Dalı’nda öğrenim görmekte olan 36 lisans öğrencisinden oluşmaktadır. Araştırmada veri toplama araçları olarak Semerci (2010) tarafından geliştirilen Başarı Odaklı Motivasyon Ölçeği (BOM); Çetin, Bağçeci, Kinay ve Şimşek (2013) tarafından geliştirilen Öğretim Teknolojileri ve Materyal Tasarımı Dersine Yönelik Tutum Ölçeği (ÖTMTDYTÖ) ve Eren (2009) tarafından Türkçe’ye uyarlanan Bilgi Kaynaklı Merak Ölçeği kullanıl-mıştır. 14 haftalık deneysel işlem sürecinde ortaya çıkan görsel sanatlar ders materyali tasarımlarının değerlendiril-mesi için uzman görüş formu olarak holistik rubrik kulla-nılmıştır. Ölçeklerden elde edilen veriler Mann- Whitney U Testi kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Uzman Görüş For-mu’ndan elde edilen veriler, sınıfiçi korelasyon katsayısı belirledikten sonra, analizleri yine Mann - Whitney U testi ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Yapılan analizler sonucunda, ön-testte çalışma grubunda yer alan öğrencilerin derse karşı tutumlarında, motivasyonlarında, bilgi kaynaklı merakla-rında anlamlı bir fark ortaya çıkmamıştır. Deneysel işlem sonrasında yapılan son testte ise, ARCS Motivasyon Mode-li’ne göre öğretim süreci tasarlanan deney grubundaki öğrencilerin lehine derse karşı tutumlarında, motivasyonla-rında, bilgi kaynaklı merak düzeylerinde ve çalışmalarında anlamlı düzeyde farklılık görülmüştür.
Reliability of integrated parameters of operational efficiency of TPP power units
Authors: Farhadzadeh E. M. , Muradaliyev A. Z. , Rafieva T. K. , Rustamova A. A.
Published: January 2020

A new method and an algorithm of ensuring the uniformity of normalized samples of technical and economic parameters of power units of thermal power plants are presented. Uniformity and normalization are obligatory conditions at estimation of integrated parameters characterizing the efficiency of power units. The method is based on the fiducial approach. Boundary values of fiducial interval are traditionally calculated based on the statistical function of distribution and a set significance value, i.e. are calculated, in fact, "mechanically". As the "mechanical" approach is appropriate for homogeneous statistical data, whereas technical and economic parameters are multivariate data, application of this approach to the statistical function of fiducial distribution is associated with a high risk of an erroneous decision. The set of possible realizations of actual values of technical and economic parameters includes realizations caused by "gross" mistakes at data input in automated systems or at manual performance of individual calculations. Quite often, unconventional realizations are observed, e. g., in case of low-load operation for 10 days of a month. These data form boundary intervals that the authors refer to as “boundins” (or prigrins in Russian). Automated search and removal of boundins provides reliability of comparison and ranking of integrated parameters. It is shown that rate of variation of boundins is considerably below the rate of variation of typical realizations of technical and economic parameters. This fact was the basis for recognition of boundins.
Determination of actual wall thicknesses of equipment and pipelines exposed to flow-accelerated corrosion on the example of conical reducers
Authors: Kuzmin D. A. , Kuz’michevskiy A. Yu.
Published: January 2020

Flow-accelerated corrosion is a common type of damage to heat engineering equipment and pipelines. This process is subject to almost all elements of the condensate-feed and steam pipelines of turbine sets of nuclear and thermal power plants. Other types of metal thinning, in most cases, occur in conjunction with this process. In accordance with the requirements of the Federal Norms and Rules in Nuclear Energy, it is necessary to conduct regular non-destructive testing of thermal mechanical equipment using the method of ultrasonic thickness measurement to measure the thickness of walls, followed by assessment of compliance of the product quality and determination of the predictive value for the next in-service inspection. To estimate the rate of thinning and predict the value of thinning, it is necessary to know the values of actual wall thicknesses of pipeline systems at the initial time, which is usually not known. The actual wall thickness at the initial time is usually assumed to be equal to the nominal value without taking into account possible deviations, which is not always a reasonable solution in terms of assessing the rate of flow-accelerated corrosion. Functions are obtained that describe the profile of thinning with high accuracy. The coefficients included in the equation have a physical meaning: the actual wall thickness, the value of thinning and the area of local corrosion on the inner surface of the reducer. The developed approach is based on approximation of results of non-destructive testing, which allows to distinguish between areas exposed and not exposed to the mechanism of flow-accelerated corrosion in conical reducers. This makes possible to determine the thickness of the wall of a conical reducer of pipeline at the time of its being put in operation and to assess the rate of thinning based on a single control procedure, which reduces the possible rejection of metal and increases the accuracy of predictive calculations. This approach increases the safety and reliability of operation of conical reducers.
Improving reliability of porcelain post insulators at electric power Substations
Authors: Lukovenko A. S.
Published: January 2020

At electric power substations, post insulators are designed for isolation and fastening of conductive parts of electrical installations. Insulators are installed on outdoor switchgear of substations as part of the main switching equipment. During operation, they are exposed to external atmospheric effects, mechanical and dynamic loads. Timely replacement of post insulators increases significantly the reliability of the main substation equipment at power substations. The question of improving reliability at transformer and traction substations is considered, external and internal factors associated with destruction of porcelain post insulators (PPI) are presented. It is established that the main cause of damage to PPI are sharp changes in ambient temperature, especially the transition of temperature values through 0°C. A model of a porcelain post insulator with an insulating body of elliptic shape is proposed. Operation of the proposed device is described. Analysis is presented of the ratio of the lengths of the axes of a circle and ellipse (major-to-minor) as related to spatial positioning in power loads. It has been determined by calculation that a post insulator should be installed in such a way that the major axis of the ellipse be aligned in the direction of the temperature gradient — sunlight, to reduce the impact of heating on the minor axis of the insulator.
Ash pollen season in Poland in 2019
Authors: Puc Małgorzata , Kotrych Daniel , Lipiec Agnieszka , Chłopek Kazimiera , Jurkiewicz Dariusz , Kalinowska Ewa , Piotrowska-Weryszko Krystyna , Rapiejko Piotr , Siergiejko Zenon
Published: January 2020

Pollen grains are one of the most important groups of atmospheric biological particles that cause allergic processes. Meteorological factors affect the occurrence of pollen allergen release in the air. In order to shed light on this phenomenon this study compares the ash pollen seasons in Bialystok, Bydgoszcz, Sosnowiec, Piotrkow Trybunalski, Opole, Olsztyn, Szczecin, Warsaw and Lublin in 2019. The investigations were carried out using the volumetric method (Hirst type pollen sampler). Seasonal Pollen Index (SPI) was estimated as the sum of daily average pollen concentrations in the given season. The ash pollination is mainly observed in April. Diagnosis of ash pollen allergy is made difficult due to an overlapping pollination period with Betulaceae and some cross-reactivity with allergens from Betulaceae. It is not clear whether ash pollen is a primary cause of sensitization or whether it is implicated through cross-sensitization to other pollens. In 2019 the pollen season of ash started first in Opole, on the March 9th. At the latest, a pollen season ended in Bialystok, after mid may. The differences of pollen seasons duration were very considerable, from 28 to 50 days. The highest airborne concentration of 190 pollen grains/m3 was noted in Lublin on the April 21st. The maximum values of seasonal pollen count in Polish cities occurred between April 4th and 22nd, most often between April 18th–22nd. The highest ash pollen allergen hazard occurred in 2019 in Lublin, Warsaw, Piotrkow Trybunalski and Bydgoszcz, and was at least three times higher than in other cities. The highest variability in the analysed seasons was found in the peak value and annual total.
Allergenic Ambrosia pollen grains in the air of some Polish cities in 2019
Authors: Sulborska Aneta , Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta , Rapiejko Piotr , Dąbrowska-Zapart Katarzyna , Jurkiewicz Dariusz , Kalinowska Ewa , Puc Małgorzata , Lipiec Agnieszka , Malkiewicz Małgorzata , Siergiejko Zenon
Published: January 2020

Ambrosia is regarded as the most dangerous allergy-related plant posing a considerable threat to human health with its highly allergenic pollen. In Europe, there are 4 Ambrosia species originating from North America; they most often colonize ruderal habitats and agricultural fields. The aim of the study was to compare Ambrosia pollen seasons in 9 cities located in different parts of Poland in 2019. Aerobiological tests were conducted in Bialystok, Bydgoszcz, Lublin, Olsztyn, Piotrkow Trybunalski, Sosnowiec, Szczecin, Warsaw, and Wroclaw. The investigations were carried out with the volumetric method using Burkard or Lanzoni pollen samplers. The 98% method was used to determine the duration of the pollen season. The earliest onset of the pollen season was recorded in Szczecin (August 7th) and Sosnowiec (August 9th), whereas the latest beginning was noted in Wroclaw (August 22nd) and Bydgoszcz (August 21st). The longest pollen season was recorded in Sosnowiec (52 days) as well as Lublin and Szczecin (50 days), while the shortest pollen season was noted in Wroclaw (10 days). The highest mean daily concentrations of Ambrosia pollen grains were recorded in Sosnowiec (104 P/m3) and Wroclaw (77 P/m3), whereas the lowest value was obtained in Szczecin (18 P/m3). Peak days were noted mostly during the last 10 days of August. The highest value of Ambrosia annual pollen sum was reported from Sosnowiec (326) and Lublin (310), while the lowest sum was noted in Szczecin (69). The multimodal course of the graph presenting the pollen seasons in the analysed cities and literature data indicate that the pollen originated not only from local sources but also from long-distance transport. The highest risk of Ambrosia pollen-induced allergy in sensitive subjects was demonstrated in Lublin, Piotrkow Trybunalski and Warsaw. The concentration of Ambrosia pollen in the air of the analysed Polish cities was substantially lower than the values indicated by measurement stations located in other parts of Europe.
Description of Gondwanoscurus curleri sp. nov. from the West Usambara Mts, Tanzania (Diptera: Psychodidae)
Authors: Kvifte Gunnar Mikalsen , Andersen Trond
Published: January 2020

Gondwanoscurus curleri sp. nov. is described based on four males collected in November 1990 and April 1991 in the West Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. It is the first species of Gondwanoscurus Ježek, 2001 to be described from the African mainland, and the second from the Afrotropical Region. The new species is characterized by a strongly asymmetric first flagellomere with a large mesal projection; and by several genitalic characters including simple gonostyli with acuminate apices and the surstylus without discernable basal projection. A key to world species of Gondwanoscurus is presented based on data from the literature.
Cretobrachygluta gen. nov., the first and oldest Brachyglutini in mid-Cretaceous amber from Myanmar (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae)
Authors: Yin Zi-Wei , Kurbatov Sergey A. , Cuccodoro Giulio , Cai Chen-Yang
Published: January 2020

A new fossil genus and species of the subfamily Pselaphinae (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), †Cretobrachygluta laurasiensis gen. et sp. nov., is described based on an exquisitely preserved specimen in mid-Cretaceous amber from northern Myanmar. The new genus possesses a series of characters diagnostic of the extant Brachyglutini: Brachyglutina (supertribe Goniaceritae), but it also exhibits several plesiomorphic traits that suggest a basal position within the tribe. The discovery of the first and oldest brachyglutine beetle in Burmese amber considerably improves our understanding of the early morphological evolution of Pselaphinae during the Mesozoic Era.
A new species and a new record of the genus Scymbalopsis (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Paederinae: Paederini)
Authors: Shavrin Alexey V. , Anichtchenko Alexander
Published: January 2020

A new species, Scymbalopsis persica sp. nov. (Staphylinidae: Paederinae: Paederini), is described and illustrated based on three specimens collected in Lorestan province, Iran. The new species can be distinguished from the remaining species of the genus by the paler coloration, moderately wide forebody with dense and long setation, and other details of the morphology of the body and aedeagus. Detailed bionomic data for S. persica sp. nov. are presented. An additional record from Kyrgyzstan and photograph of the habitus of S. kirghizica Gusarov, 1994, and a key to the species of Scymbalopsis Reitter, 1909 are provided. The genus is recorded for the first time from Iran.
A review of Thysanarthria with description of seven new species and comments on its relationship to Chaetarthria (Hydrophilidae: Chaetarthriini)
Authors: Fikáček Martin , Liu Hsing-Che
Published: January 2020

The Old World genus Thysanarthria Orchymont, 1926 is reviewed taxonomically and compared to the related genus Chaetarthria Stephens, 1835. Chaetarthria is considered to consist of three groups differing in the morphology of male genitalia and surrounding sclerites: (1) large Old World Chaetarthria which seems to stand apart of the remaining groups, and (2) European Chaetarthria plus (3) American Chaetarthria which both share the male sternite 8 with a long median projection with Thysanarthria. The reduced mesal part of male sternite 9 is shared by European Chaetarthria and Thysanarthria, supporting their close relationship proposed by previous molecular analyses. Sixteen species are recognized within Thysanarthria which differ in the details of the morphology of the aedeagus illustrated for all species. Seven species are described as new: T. bifida sp. nov. (Thailand), T. cardamona sp. nov. (India: Kerala), T. chui sp. nov. (Taiwan), T. persica sp. nov. (southern Iran), T. saurahana sp. nov. (Nepal), T. trifida (Laos), and T. wadicola sp. nov. (Oman). New records are provided for T. ceylonensis Hebauer, 2001 (new to India: Madhya Pradesh), T. championi (Knisch, 1924) (new to Afghanistan, India: Arunachal Pradesh, China: Yunnan, and Myanmar), T. madurensis Hebauer, 2001 (new to Nepal and India: Kerala), and T. siamensis Hebauer, 2001 (new to India: Uttarkhand, Nepal and Laos). Chaetarthriomorphus sulcatus Chiesa, 1967 is revealed as a junior synonym of Chaetarthria championi Knisch, 1924, and lectotypes are designated for both these taxa. An undescribed species of the American group of Chaetarthria is recorded from Saudi Arabia either as an accidental introduction or due to mislabeling; the species is illustrated but not described.
A review of the Barsine perpallida-B. yuennanensis species-group, with descriptions of six new species (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae)
Authors: Volynkin Anton V. , Černý Karel , Huang Si-Yao
Published: January 2020

The Barsine perpallida-B. yuennanensis species-group is reviewed. Six new species, B. biformis Volynkin & Černý, sp. nov. (North Thailand and North Vietnam), B. laszloi Volynkin & Černý, sp. nov. (Nepal), B. hausmanni Volynkin & Černý, sp. nov. (North Thailand), B. andromeda Volynkin, Černý & Huang, sp. nov. (China: Shaanxi and Sichuan), B. eurydice Volynkin & Černý, sp. nov. (North Vietnam), and B. dao Volynkin, Černý & Huang, sp. nov. (North Vietnam and China: Yunnan), are described. All species treated are subdivided into five subgroups: B. biformis, B. perpallida, B. flavicollis, B. hausmanni, and B. yuennanensis subgroups. Four new combinations are established: Barsine hololeuca (Hampson, 1895), comb. nov., B. ruficollis (Fang, 1991), comb. nov., Barsine nigrovena (Fang, 2000), comb. nov. (all three from Miltochrista Hübner, [1819]), and B. flavicollis (Moore, 1878), comb. nov. (from Mahavira Moore, 1878). A lectotype for Mahavira flavicollis Moore, 1878 is designated. One new synonymy is established: B. perpallida (Hampson, 1900) = Diacrisia porthesioides Rothschild, 1910, syn. nov. Adults, male and female genitalia of all species are illustrated.
Two new species of Rohdendorfia (Diptera: Syrphidae) from Central Asia
Authors: Mengual Ximo , Barkalov Anatolij V.
Published: January 2020

Two new species of the flower fly genus Rohdendorfia Smirnov, 1924 (Diptera: Syrphidae) are described, Rohdendorfia bella Mengual, sp. nov. and Rohdendorfia khakimovi Barkalov, sp. nov. A full description and images of both new species are given, as well as an identification key for the species of this genus. Molecular sequences from mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene and nuclear ribosomal 28S and 18S rRNA genes are also provided for the new species. The studied specimens of Rohdendorfia bella Mengual, sp. nov. are the first record of the genus Rohdendorfia from India and represent the first individuals collected in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
In memoriam of Professor Pavel Štys (1933–2018): biography, memories, bibliography and list of described taxa
Authors: Kment Petr , Baňař Petr , Bílý Svatopluk , Pluot-Sigwalt Dominique , Polhemus Dan A. , Schuh Randall T.
Published: January 2020

Professor Pavel Štys (1933–2018) was an eminent specialist in morphology, taxonomy, systematics, biology and behaviour of Heteroptera, and the Commissioner of the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature. All his career was connected with the Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, where he educated several generations of Czech biologists and teachers. Here we provide his short biography, personal memories of his colleagues, bibliography currently comprising 386 papers, and annotated list of the taxa he described, which includes two families (Stemmocryptidae and Medocostidae), 11 subfamilies, 4 tribes, 54 genus-group and 129 species-group names, all of them in Heteroptera, except one species and one subspecies of Syrphidae (Diptera). Within the list the grammatical gender of the genera Chauliops Scott, 1874 and Neochauliops Štys, 1963 is corrected to masculine in accordance with ICZN (1999: Article 30.1.4.3) affecting the gender agreement in the following species: Chauliops conicus Gao & Bu, 2009, Ch. lobatulus Breddin, 1907, Ch. petiolatus (Germar, 1837), Ch. quaternarius Gao & Bu, 2009, and Neochauliops laciniatus (Bergroth, 1916).
Three new species of the flower bug genus Orius (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Anthocoridae) from Nepal
Authors: Yasunaga Tomohide , Yamada Kazutaka , Duwal Ram Keshari
Published: January 2020

Three new species of the flower bug genus Orius Wolff, 1811 (Anthocorinae: Oriini) are described as new, namely Orius (Orius) ekaii sp. nov., O. (Orius) nigromaritus sp. nov., and O. (Xylorius) paveli sp. nov., all from Nepal. The plant association and habitat are documented for each new species. Habitus images of live individuals and scanning electron micrographs are also provided to aid in proper recognition of their identities. A checklist of Orius species known from South Asia (SAARC nations) is incorporated; Orius indicus (Reuter, 1884) is herein placed in the subgenus Dimorphella Reuter, 1884.
Scanning the Hyocephalidae: details of their external morphology with respect to phylogenetic relationships within Eutrichophora (Hemiptera: Heteroptera)
Authors: Kment Petr , Hemala Vladimír , Malenovský Igor
Published: January 2020

Hyocephalidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomomorpha) is a small family of true bugs containing two genera and three species endemic to Australia. For the first time, we examine here selected structures of their external morphology using scanning electron microscopy – the external structures associated with the metathoracic and dorsoabdominal scent glands, the strainer organ on the sternite III, as well as the trichobothrial pattern and ultrastructure. The following character states are confirmed (i, ii, iii) or newly recognised (iv, v) as autapomorphies of Hyocephalidae: i) apically projected scimitar-shaped peritreme of the metathoracic scent glands; ii) presence of a strainer organ on sternite III in both sexes; iii) trichobothria on sternite V placed immediately ventrad of spiracle, iv) trichobothria on each of abdominal segments III–VII all grouped together within a common trichome, and v) presence of crocus-like structures within the trichome. Of particular interest is the presence of a shallow open bothrium (type B) surrounded by a trichome in Hyocephalidae, a probably derived character state shared with Pyrrhocoroidea and most Lygaeoidea, while Stenocephalidae (previously considered to be closely related to Hyocephalidae and used here for comparison) and the remaining Coreoidea possess a recessed bothrium of type A2, lacking the trichome. The morphology of trichobothria in Hyocephalidae may thus suggest either their closer relationship to Lygaeoidea + Pyrrhocoroidea than to Coreoidea, or a parallel evolution of the open bothrium with trichome in Eutrichophora. We highlight the importance of Hyocephalidae for a better understanding of the phylogeny of Eutrichophora and the urgent need to obtain phylogenomic data for future research. A taxonomic catalogue of Hyocephalidae is supplemented. The neotype designation for Hyocephalus aprugnus Bergroth, 1906 made by ŠTYS (1964) and supported by GRANT & ŠTYS (1970) is found invalid.
A new species and a new record of Xistrella from China (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae)
Authors: Xin Lei , Deng Weian
Published: January 2020

The genus Xistrella Bolívar, 1909 (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae) is taxonomically reviewed. It can be easily recognised from other genera in SE Asia, and especially in the People’s Republic of China. It is distinctive by antennae inserted below the inferior margin of eye and considerably long; pronotum between the shoulders strongly elevated to obtuse gibbosity or slightly elevated in the posterior part of shoulders. This genus is distributed mainly in China, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Nepal, Malaysia, and the Philippines. One new species, X. hainanensis Deng sp. nov. (China: Hainan), is described, and a new record of X. dubia (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893) from China is given. An annotated identification key to all species of the genus Xistrella is provided.
A new species of the genus Anomala from southern China (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae)
Authors: Zhao Ming Zhi
Published: January 2020

A new species of the genus Anomala Samouelle, 1819, Anomala consanguinea sp. nov. is described from Hainan and Guangdong Provinces, southern China. It is closely related to Oriental Anomala esmeralda Prokofiev, 2015, A. russiventris Fairmaire, 1893, and A. inepta Ohaus, 1916. Diagnostic characters of these species are provided and compared. In addition, their relationships are briefly discussed. Anomala inepta is recorded from Sabah, Malaysia for the first time.
Four new Australo-Oriental species of Paraneseuthia (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: Jałoszyński Paweł
Published: January 2020

Four new species of the eutheiine genus Paraneseuthia Franz, 1986 are described: P. luzonica sp. nov. (the Philippines), P. kaibesariana sp. nov. (Indonesia: Kai Besar Is.), P. tanimbariana sp. nov. (Indonesia: Yamdena Is.), and P. morobensis sp. nov. (Papua New Guinea). Externally, these species share many characters with members of the SE Asian, Sundaland group within the genus. However, male genitalic structures of some of them resemble aedeagi of Australian Paraneseuthia, supporting previous phylogeographic hypotheses that assumed the origins of both north-eastern (Far Russian and Japanese) and south-eastern (Australian and Melanesian) Paraneseuthia from a Sundaland ancestor. The aedeagus of P. morobensis sp. nov. shows intermediary shape and structures between those of P. quadrifoveata Jałoszyński, 2010 of Borneo, Sabah, and that of P. levigata Jałoszyński, 2010 of eastern Papua New Guinea. The aedeagus of P. tanimbariana sp. nov., in turn, shows a striking similarity to that of the northern Australian P. angustifurculata Jałoszyński, 2013 and other species known to occur in Australia. The male genitalia of P. luzonica sp. nov. (the first species discovered in the Philippines), and especially of P. kaibesariana sp. nov., add unique features to the already known, great morphological diversity of the SE Asian members of Paraneseuthia that occupy the presumable evolutionary cradle of this genus.
Taxonomic review of the genus Catoclastus from Peru (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae)
Authors: Mondaca José , Seidel Matthias
Published: January 2020

Catoclastus Solier, 1851 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Rutelini), a genus endemic to Peru, is revised. Based on morphology and examination of type specimens, Catoclastus jaumesi Soula, 2010 is a new synonym of C. chevrolatii Solier, 1851, while Catoclastus rabinovichi Martínez, 1971 is transferred to the genus Mecopelidnota Bates, 1904, leading to Mecopelidnota rabinovichi (Martínez) as a new combination. Characters that characterize the genus, natural history, and distribution data are given. Implications and problems associated with intraspecific variability of C. chevrolatii are discussed. As a result of our research, the genus is considered monotypic and endemic to western Peru.
Glulam in Architecture of Latvia and Lithuania
Authors: Viluma Antra , Gabrenas Arnoldas
Published: January 2020

Latvia and Lithuania are producers of glulam and both have managed building projects with glued timber structures, but only as few as 1−2 projects per year. As it is difficult to find information about glulam projects it is possible that many projects are not known even to the audience of architects. The aim of this study was to collect information related to the glulam projects in both countries and the questionnaire was used to get the architects’ opinion on the use of timber and glulam.
Influence of Land Use, Socio-demographic and Travel Attributes on Travel Behaviour in City of Lahore
Authors: Shakeel Nabeel , Jahanzaib Muhammad
Published: January 2020

Travel behaviour exists in both culture and the surrounding environment. It is crucial to understand it because it helps the policymakers to effectively develop the urban and transportation planning policies. Large scale mobility of people by motorized transport is making our cities polluted and more congested that ultimately affects urban assets. A single paradigm, e.g. land use or socio-demographics, might not clearly demonstrate people’s preferences, it is necessary to take several paradigms in isolation. This study examined the joint influence of multiple attributes that includes land use, socio-demographic and travel information on travel behaviour and particularly preferred travel mode. A structured questionnaire was designed and interviews were conducted to obtain the data. Multinomial logit model (MNL) was applied to estimate the relationships among variables. Furthermore, spatial maps were prepared to highlight the classification of land uses. It was estimated that with the increase in income level people switched from walking to riding a vehicle and most of them prefer to ride a vehicle for longer trips. It was further investigated that people prefer to walk or ride a vehicle in residential and commercial areas. Based on the results, several planning related policies were recommended.
Methodological aspects of pH and EC measurements in geothermal water
Authors: Kmiecik Ewa , Wątor Katarzyna , Tomaszewska Barbara , Sekuła Klaudia , Mika Anna
Published: January 2020

A proper methodology for collecting samples of geothermal water makes it possible not only to determine the hydrochemical characteristics of the water, but also to assess its temporal and spatial variability. The knowledge about the concentration of selected elements as well as the values of field measurements can help to indicate their impact on other environments and the processes that occur in a geothermal system. An important issue is the quality of the results obtained from in-situ measurements of unstable parameters, i.a. pH and electrical conductivity (EC). The results of measurements presented in the paper were completed with the use of three different devices in hot and cooled raw geothermal water (field test). The research was performed during two seasons of increased (winter) and lower (summer) exploitation of geothermal water. The percentage difference between EC at temperatures of 22°C and 75°C was 3.27%; however, for the pH the observed percentage difference was only 0.26%. An additional experiment was carried out on a laboratory scale to indicate the influence of temperature changes on pH and EC measurements.
Distribution of cold and temperate ice and water in glaciers at Nordenskiöld Land, Svalbard, according to data on ground-based radio-echo sounding
Authors: Macheret Yuri , Glazovsky Andrey , Lavrentiev Ivan
Published: January 2020

The distribution of cold and temperate ice and water in polythermal glaciers is an important characteristic in studying their thermal regime, hydrology, and response to climate change. Data analysis of ground-based radio-echo sounding of 16 glaciers in Nordenskiöld Land in Spitsbergen shows that 5 of them are of cold type and 12 are of polythermal type. The mean thickness of cold and temperate ice in polythermal glaciers varies from 11±2 to 66±6 m and from 6±2 to 96±9 m, respectively, and their ratio varies from 0.30 to 5.31. The volume of temperate ice in polythermal glaciers varies from 0.0009 to 3.733 (±10%) km3. With water content of 2% in temperate ice in these glaciers they might contain in total up to ~93.5 × 106 m3 of liquid water. Radar data suggest the greater water content or greater size of water inclusions in near-bottom temperate ice.
Light pollution in the night sky of Toruń in the summer season
Authors: Karpińska Dominika , Kunz Mieczysław
Published: January 2020

The paper presents results of research on light pollution in the night sky of Toruń. A permanent network of measuring stations has been established in the city, consisting of 24 sites representing various types of land development and land cover: single-family housing, city centre, multi-family housing, areas overgrown with vegetation and open areas. Within this network, a repeatable direct measurement of the sky brightness using an SQM photometer was carried out over a period of three consecutive months in the summer season, i.e. from June to September 2017. The measurement sessions were conducted in similar weather and astronomical conditions. Based on the obtained data, a spatial distribution of light pollution was determined, ranges of values obtained during the measurements were provided, and the results were additionally referred to the distinguished land cover categories and land development types.
Profile of coordination motor abilities in elite judokas and badminton players compared to non-athletes
Authors: Jaworski Janusz , Lech Grzegorz , Ambroży Tadeusz , Żak Michał
Published: January 2020

Study aim: To determine the level and internal structure of profiles of coordination motor abilities in elite judokas and badminton players compared to a group of non-athletes.

Material and methods: The material for the study was the results collected from 12 competitors of the Polish national badminton team (age: 22.7 ± 4.5), 10 members of the national judo team who represented mean weight categories (age: 23.0 ± 3.3) and 25 non-athletes, who were male university students of the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport (age: 23.0 ± 0.8). The scope of the study included basic somatic features and selected coordination motor abilities measured by means of computer tests.

Results: Statistically significant differences between badminton players and judokas were obtained for reaction times (visual, auditory and selective) as well as spatial orientation. In all cases, a higher level was found for badminton players. Furthermore, analysis of differences between badminton players and non-athletes revealed statistically significant differences only for the selective reaction time. A substantial differentiation of the internal structure of the models of coordination motor abilities was obtained. This pattern was particularly noticeable in the group of judokas and badminton players, where the difference between characteristics was ca. 0.76 SD. Substantially smaller differences (0.21 SD) between particular variables included in the coordination profile were found for non-athlete university students.

Conclusion: The lower results of the elite judokas show the need for developing the coordination motor abilities during training. The largest reserves are to be found in raising the level of reaction times and spatial orientation.
Developing a New Generation MOOC (ngMOOC): A Design-Based Implementation Research Project with Cognitive Architecture and Student Feedback in Mind
Authors: Woolcott Geoff , Seton Carolyn , Mason Raina , Chen Ouhao , Lake Warren , Markopoulos Christos , Boyd William
Published: January 2020

This paper describes a design-based implementation research (DBIR) approach to the development and trialling of a new generation massive open online course (ngMOOC) situated in an instructional setting of undergraduate mathematics at a regional Australian university. This process is underscored by two important innovations: (a) a basis in a well-established human cognitive architecture in terms of cognitive load theory; and (b) point-of-contact feedback based in a well-tested online system dedicated to enhancing the learning process. Analysis of preliminary trials suggests that the DBIR approach to the ngMOOC construction and development supports theoretical standpoints that argue for an understanding of how design for optimal learning can utilise conditions, such as differing online or blended educational contexts, in order to be effective and scalable. The ngMOOC development described in this paper marks the adoption of a cognitive architecture in conjunction with feedback systems, offering the groundwork for use of adaptive systems that cater for learner expertise. This approach seems especially useful in constructing and developing online learning that is self-paced and curriculum-based.
How MOOCs Can Develop Teacher Cognition: The Case of in-Service English Language Teachers
Authors: Ardavani Shahrzad
Published: January 2020

Research reveals a rapid expansion of Open Educational Resources (OER) supporting global access to higher education for continued professional development (CPD) for in-service teachers. This offers interactive opportunities for participation and reflection to support the development of teacher cognition through a globally-oriented online community.

This paper will indicate whether the OER MOOCs designed for CPD of in-service English language teachers (ELT) have a role in developing teacher cognition. It also examines the in-service teacher experience of MOOC participants and proposes that teacher cognition and evaluation of cognitive change remain central to understanding teachers’ experience of learning on MOOCs.

Brookfield’s (1995) critical incident questionnaire (CIQ) captured the weekly experience of six in-service ELTs undertaking a CPD MOOC over four weeks. Thematic analysis and descriptive statistics were applied to CIQ data to examine changes in participant cognition. Teachers reflected on how MOOC developed their own knowledge, their learners’ knowledge, and to a lesser extent, their colleagues’ knowledge. The findings cast new light on the influence of MOOC which primarily shows that in terms of their own knowledge, teachers have a strong tendency to view MOOC participation as a pathway to their own development.
Inter-Learner Communication and Collaborative Learning as Quality Criteria of Distance Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Batsila Anastasia
Published: January 2020

Distance web-based VET is nowadays of utmost importance for the EU. But, its special characteristics create doubts, as far as its quality is concerned, so research in this field is essential. According to the theoretical background, teaching methods and specifically, inter-learner communication and collaborative learning, are related to quality assurance. However, they are not always included in quality criteria nor is their use widespread in Greek distance VET. The aim of the research was to compare learner views with EU policy on the inclusion of inter-learner communication and collaborative learning in quality criteria. A qualitative research design was used to investigate EU quality assurance policy and frameworks. According to the findings, inter-learner communication is included in seven EU quality assurance frameworks, while collaborative learning in five of them. Learners have the same opinion about collaborative learning, but inter-learner communication is not as widely accepted as it is by EU organizations. However, from both perspectives, there is a stronger preference for distance inter-learner communication.
Phylogenetic position of Pleurogenoides species (Plagiorchiida: Pleurogenidae) from the duodenum of Indian skipper frog, Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (Amphibia: Dicroglossidae) inhabiting the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Chaudhary A. , Shinad K. , Prasadan P. K. , Singh H. S.
Published: January 2020

Two species of digenetic trematodes of the genus Pleurogenoides viz., P. cyanophlyctiShinad & Prasadan (2018a) and P. euphlyctiShinad & Prasadan (2018b) have been described from India. Information regarding the molecular data of various species of the genus Pleurogenoides Travassos, 1921 is virtually lacking. This study addresses the application of molecular markers to validate the phylogenetic position of P. cyanophlycti and P. euphlycti. In the present study, two species P. cyanophlycti and P. euphlycti were collected between January 2016 to October 2017, infecting the freshwater frogs inhabiting the Western Ghats, India. In the present study, the two species were identifi ed morphologically and by PCR amplification of the 28S ribosomal RNA gene. Phylogenetic tree results clearly demonstrate that both P. cyanophlycti and P. euphlycti belongs to the family Pleurogenidae Looss, 1899. Based on these results, we presented and discussed the phylogenetic relationships of P. cyanophlycti and P. euphlycti within family Pleurogenidae from India. Phylogenetic analyses showed that P. cyanophlycti and P. euphlycti cluster according to their vertebrate host and revealed an important congruence between the phylogenetic trees of Pleurogenoides and of their vertebrate hosts. P. cyanophlycti and P. euphlycti clearly constitute a separate, sister branch with other species of the genera, Pleurogenoides, Pleurogenes (=Candidotrema), Prosotocus and Brandesia. The present study firstly provides important information about the molecular study and phylogenetic analysis of P. cyanophlycti and P. euphlycti. This study will also serve as a baseline for Pleurogenoides species identifi cation for further studies.
First report on clinical feline heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection in Romania
Authors: Pană D. , Rădulescu A. , Mitrea I. L. , Ionita M.
Published: January 2020

Dirofilaria immitis (Nematoda: Filarioidea) is the causative agent of heartworm disease (HWD), a severe and potentially fatal condition in dogs. Although cats are considered more resistant to infection than dogs, they are also susceptible to heartworm infection. Moreover, the clinical importance of feline dirofilariosis has increased in recent years, especially in heartworm endemic areas. In contrast to dog, definitive antemortem diagnosis of heartworm infection in cat is difficult to achieve and a combination of testing methods must be used for clinical confirmation. Here we describe a clinical case of heartworm infection in a 12-year-old male mixed breed cat, originated from Southern Romania, which was referred to a veterinary clinic with a history of vomiting and clinical signs of respiratory distress. The thoracic radiograph showed a diffuse bronchointerstitial pattern of the pulmonary parenchyma. The serological test for D. immitis circulating antibody was positive and heartworms were visualized by echocardiography in the main pulmonary artery. In conclusion, the present study clearly shows that cats are at risk for D. immitis infection in heartworm-endemic areas in Romania. Additionally, the findings highlight the urgent need for increased awareness among veterinary practitioners of the existence of feline heartworm diseases and for adequate prophylactic measures to be applied. To our knowledge, this is the first report on clinical evolution and radiographic and echocardiographic features of a naturally heartworm-infected cat in Romania.
Wie viel Fremde verträgt eine (nach)-christliche Gesellschaft?
Authors: Rauhut Andreas
Published: January 2020

How many refugees should the German society accept? Which ethical criteria are to be considered in the process of deliberation? Given current ambivalence between principled openness and consequent limitation of migration both in the secular and in the Christian ethical debate, this article develops biblical–theological guidelines for the foundation of a viable migration ethic. Part one reflects on central biblical texts discussing migration and asylum seekers giving attention both to the imperatives to welcome, support and love foreigners and to their warnings against religious apostasy stemming from the acceptance of strangers. Part two poses the hermeneutic question of relevance of biblical theology for a contemporary Christian migration ethic: How can a post-Christian society in a modern pluralistic state benefit from a biblically supported Christian migration ethic? – After working our path through both these levels of discussion, the article delineates selected criteria for a contextually relevant Christian ethic of migration.
Corrosion resistance of the biodegradable ZE41 magnesium alloy treated by unconventional fluoride conversion coating
Authors: Drábiková J. , Fintová S. , Doležal P. , Wasserbauer J. , Florková Z.
Published: January 2020

Magnesium based alloys are very promising material to be used mainly for biodegradable implants in medical applications. However, due to their very low corrosion resistance in the environment of in vivo is their use limited. Increase of the corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys in vivo can be achieved, for example, by a suitable choice of surface treatment while the biocompatibility must be ensured. Fluoride conversion coatings meet these requirements. Unconventional fluoride conversion coating was prepared on ZE41 magnesium alloy by dipping the magnesium alloy into the Na[BF4] salt melt at 450 °C for 0.5; 2 and 8 h. The morphology and thickness of the prepared fluoride conversion coatings were investigated as well as the corrosion resistance of the treated and untreated ZE41 magnesium alloy specimens. The corrosion resistance of the untreated and treated ZE41 magnesium alloy was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in the environment of the simulated body fluids at 37 ± 2 °C. The obtained results showed a positive influence of the fluoride conversion coating on the corrosion resistance of the ZE41 magnesium alloy.