bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scattering of Surface Gravity Waves by a Pair of Floating Porous Boxes
Authors: Vijay K. G. , Sahoo T.
Published: April 2019

A numerical model is developed based on multidomain boundary element method (MBEM) to investigate the scattering of surface gravity waves by a pair of floating porous boxes. This study reveals that there is a significant reduction in wave forces acting on the boxes with the introduction of structural porosity. Moderate porosity is highly effective for shallow and intermediate water depth for dissipating wave energy, while high porosity is more suitable in case of deep water. A major part of the wave energy is trapped by the porous boxes when the widths of the boxes are close to half of the wavelength of the incident waves. Apart from wave reflection and energy dissipation, a pair of floating porous boxes traps a part of wave energy, which helps in the wave attenuation on the lee side of the porous box. Horizontal and vertical forces of the seaside porous box are 180 deg out of phase, while they are in-phase in case of the box located on the lee side. Optima in the horizontal and vertical forces are attained when the distance between the boxes are at periodic intervals of half the wavelength. This study will be of immense help in the design of box-type porous structures as effective wave barriers for the creation of tranquility zone in the marine environment.
Radial Stagnation Flow on a Twisting Cylinder
Authors: Weidman Patrick
Published: April 2019

The problem of stagnation-point flow impinging radially on a linearly twisting cylinder is considered. This advances previous work on the motion outside a cylinder undergoing linear torsional motion. The problem is governed by a Reynolds number R and a dimensionless torsion rate σ. Numerical calculations are carried out using the ODEINT program, and convergence of the shooting method is obtained using the MNEWT program. The radial and azimuthal wall shear stresses are found over a range of R and σ, and radial and azimuthal velocity profiles at σ={0,1,2} are presented for various values of R. The interesting feature is that the axial wall shear stress parameter f″(1) is a very weak function of σ while the azimuthal wall shear stress parameter g′(1) is a strong function of σ although both stress parameters are a strong function of R.
Review Article: Atomic layer deposition of optoelectronic materials
Authors: Leskelä Markku , Mattinen Miika , Ritala Mikko
Published: April 2019

Optoelectronic materials can source, detect, and control light wavelengths ranging from gamma and x rays to ultraviolet, visible, and infrared regions. Optoelectronic devices are usually systems that transduce electricity to optical signal or vice versa. Optoelectronic devices include many modern necessities such as lamps, displays, lasers, solar cells, and various photodetectors. Some important research topics in the field of optoelectronics materials are development of new materials, new technologies for fabricating materials, and design of device structures. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is a technology that was developed in the early 1970s for manufacturing high-quality luminescent and dielectric films to be used in AC-driven thin film electroluminescent (TFEL) displays. Monochromic yellow-black displays based on a ZnS:Mn luminescent layer have been manufactured industrially using ALD since the mid-1980s. Multicolor displays (green-yellow-red) were successfully realized by filtering the broad emission band of ZnS:Mn or adding another luminescent material, e.g., green-emitting ZnS:Tb or SrS:Ce. However, applicable full-color AC TFEL devices could not be developed because of the lack of an efficient deep blue-emitting phosphor. Currently, the most promising application area in TFEL displays is transparent displays, which are commonly used in various vehicles. In the mid-1980s, epitaxial III-V semiconductors were studied using ALD. It was shown that manufacturing real epitaxial [atomic layer epitaxy (ALE)] films is possible for different III (Al, Ga, In) and V (N, P, As) materials. The advantages of ALE processing compared to more traditional metalorganic chemical vapor deposition or molecular beam epitaxy methods have remained low, however, and ALE is not used on a large scale. Research continues to be carried out using ALE, especially with nitride films. Thin film solar cells have continuously received attention in ALD research. ALD films may be used as both an absorber (CdTe, SnS) and a passivation [In2S3, Zn(O,S)] material. However, in the solar cell field, the real industrial-level use is in passivation of silicon cells. Thin ALD Al2O3 film effectively passivates all types of silicon cells and improves their efficiency. Transition metal dichalcogenides are emerging 2D materials that have potential uses as channel materials in field-effect transistors, as well as phototransistors and other optoelectronic devices. The problem with achieving large-scale use of these 2D materials is the lack of a scalable, low-temperature process for fabricating high-quality, large-area films. ALD is proposed as a solution for these limitations. This review covers all of these ALD applications in detail.
Electrically assisted 3D printing of nacre-inspired structures with self-sensing capability
Authors: Yang Yang , Li Xiangjia , Chu Ming , Sun Haofan , Jin Jie , Yu Kunhao , Wang Qiming , Zhou Qifa , Chen Yong
Published: April 2019

Electrically assisted 3D printing fabricates nacre-inspired graphene nanoplatelet alignment with self-sensing capability.
In silico construction of a flexibility-based DNA Brownian ratchet for directional nanoparticle delivery
Authors: Park Suehyun , Song Jeongeun , Kim Jun Soo
Published: April 2019

A Brownian ratchet device based on DNA with periodic flexibility variation is proposed for directional nanoparticle delivery.
A constant current triboelectric nanogenerator arising from electrostatic breakdown
Authors: Liu Di , Yin Xing , Guo Hengyu , Zhou Linglin , Li Xinyuan , Zhang Chunlei , Wang Jie , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: April 2019

A constant current triboelectric nanogenerator is designed for mechanical energy harvesting and self-powered systems.
How crystals form: A theory of nucleation pathways
Authors: Lutsko James F.
Published: April 2019

A theory of nucleation that is able to predict nonclassical pathways and intermediates for crystallization is formulated.
Frictional weakening of slip interfaces
Authors: Weber B. , Suhina T. , Brouwer A. M. , Bonn D.
Published: April 2019

The mechanism involved in stick-slip phenomena, such as earthquakes, is controlled by the interfacial shear stress.
ϕSa3mw Prophage as a Molecular Regulatory Switch of Staphylococcus aureus β-Toxin Production
Authors: Tran Phuong M. , Feiss Michael , Kinney Kyle J. , Salgado-Pabón Wilmara
Published: April 2019

β-Toxin is a sphingomyelinase hemolysin that significantly contributes to
Staphylococcus aureus
pathogenesis. In most
S. aureus
isolates the prophage ϕSa3int inserts into the β-toxin gene
hlb
, inactivating it, but human and experimental infections give rise to β-toxin-producing variants. However, it remained to be established whether ϕSa3mw excises in response to specific environmental cues, restoring the β-toxin gene sequence. This is not only of fundamental interest but also critical when designing intervention strategies and therapeutics. We provide evidence that ϕSa3mw actively excises, allowing the conditional expression of β-toxin. ϕSa3int prophages may play a novel and largely uncharacterized role in
S. aureus
pathogenesis as molecular regulatory switches that promote bacterial fitness and adaptation to the challenges presented by the mammalian host.
To fix or not to fix: a novel approach to the safe management of unstable open medial malleolar fractures
Authors: Carter Tom H , Arthur Calum HC , Duckworth Andrew D , White Timothy O
Published: April 2019

Displaced medial malleolar fractures, either in isolation or as part of an unstable ankle fracture dislocation, are conventionally treated with internal fixation. We outline the case of a 76-year-old man with diabetes presenting with a grossly deformed open ankle fracture and extruded tibia through a large medial wound. Following irrigation, wound debridement and minimally invasive fibular fixation, the medial fracture reduced anatomically. Contrary to traditional teaching, the medial malleolus was left without fixation. The patient mobilised partially weight-bearing, progressing to both clinical and radiographic union by 3 months. Nine months following an injury, he walks unaided, can squat and drive and has no medial pain or instability with an Olerud–Molander Ankle Score of 80/100, indicating a good outcome. This is the first reported case of such unique management in the literature and highlights the potential to treat open medial malleolar fractures safely without fixation, particularly when concerned about the soft tissue envelope.
In situ simulation and its effects on patient outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Goldshtein Daniel , Krensky Cole , Doshi Sachin , Perelman Vsevolod S.
Published: April 2019

Background

The use of in situ simulation has previously been shown to increase confidence, teamwork and practical skills of trained professionals. However, a direct benefit to patient outcomes has not been sufficiently explored. This review focuses on the effect of in situ simulation training in a hospital setting on morbidity or mortality.

Methods

A combined search was conducted in PUBMED, OVID, WEB OF SCIENCE, CINAHL, SCOPUS and EMBASE. 478 studies were screened with nine articles published between 2011 and 2017 meeting the inclusion criteria for analysis.

Results

This review selected eight prospective studies and one prospective-retrospective study. Three studies isolated in situ simulation as an experimental variable while the remaining studies implemented in situ programmes as a component of larger quality improvement initiatives. Seven studies demonstrated a significant improvement in morbidity and/or mortality outcomes following integrated in situ simulation training.

Conclusion

Existing literature, albeit limited, demonstrates that in situ training improves patient outcomes either in isolation or within a larger quality improvement programme. However, existing evidence contains difficulties such as isolating the impact of in situ training from various potential confounding factors and potential for publication bias.
Ten steps for resolving ethical dilemmas in veterinary practice
Authors: Yeates James , McKeegan Dorothy
Published: April 2019

Veterinary practitioners frequently face ethical dilemmas but it can be hard to know where to start in resolving them. Repeated exposure to challenging ethical conflicts may cause an erosion of emotional wellbeing and even a state of ‘moral distress’, a phenomenon that certainly exists in veterinary clinical environments and contributes to the generally stressful nature of the occupation. This article, the last in a series of three, describes a step‐by‐step framework to guide, structure and aid ethical reasoning for veterinary practitioners who are faced with difficult ethical dilemmas in practice. The first article in this series discussed the general principles of veterinary ethics (January/February 2019, volume 41, pp 42‐44) and the second article applied these principles to a case of tail docking (March 2019, volume 41, pp 88‐91).
Longitudinal recovery gradients of drifting larval fish assemblages in the middle reach of the Yangtze River: impact of the Three Gorges Dam and conservation implementation
Authors: Song Yiqing , Cheng Fei , Ren Peng , Wang Zhen , Xie Songguang
Published: April 2019

Drifting larval fish assemblages were investigated at three sections in the middle reach of the Yangtze River downstream of the Three Gorges Dam to reveal recovery gradients and to identify the major environmental factors influencing their temporal and spatial patterns. Larval fish in the river section closest to the dam showed lower abundance, later occurrence, narrower temporal niche breadth, and more pairs of dominant species with high niche overlap than those further from the dam. Water temperature, transparency, and discharge significantly influenced the larval fish assemblages. They showed longitudinal gradients of increased water temperature, decreased transparency, and increased discharge in a downstream direction. Our results suggested that hypolimnetic and clean water discharge from the dam heavily impacted larval fish assemblage in the river section near the dam. With an increased distance to the dam and the input of some major tributaries, this impact was gradually buffered, thus forming the longitudinal recovery gradients. We suggest that priority for conservation should shift from river sections closer to the dam to those further from the dam.
The Casimir effect in string theory
Authors: Kehagias Alexandros , Partouche Hervé
Published: April 2019

We discuss the Casimir effect in heterotic string theory. This is done by considering a [Formula: see text] twist acting on one external compact direction and three internal coordinates. The hyperplanes fixed by the orbifold generator [Formula: see text] realize the two infinite parallel plates. For the latter to behave as “conducting material,” we implement in a modular invariant way the projection [Formula: see text] on the spectrum running in the vacuum-to-vacuum amplitude at one-loop. Hence, the relevant projector to account for the Casimir effect is orthogonal to that commonly used in string orbifold models which is [Formula: see text]. We find that this setup yields the same net force acting on the plates in the context of quantum field theory and string theory. However, when supersymmetry is not present from the onset, finiteness of the resultant force in field theory is reached by adding formally infinite forces acting on either side of each plate, while in string theory, both contributions are finite. On the contrary, when supersymmetry is spontaneously broken à la Scherk–Schwarz, finiteness of each contribution is fulfilled in field and string theory.
Isolated Unilateral Pleural Effusion Without Ascites in Late Onset Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Sen Shashwati , Yong Tze Tein , Yu Su Ling , Rajesh Hemashree
Published: April 2019

Isolated pleural effusion is a rare presentation of severe OHSS. Two to four percent of women of reproductive age have subclinical hypothyroidism which is an uncommon association of late onset iatrogenic OHSS. This report describes an unusual patient with isolated unilateral pleural effusion and subclinical hypothyroidism as the only manifestation of late onset OHSS in a singleton pregnancy following in vitro fertilization (IVF). We have summarized current literature related to isolated pleural effusion in late OHSS and evaluated its pathophysiology and treatment options. Albumin infusion may be considered as a plasma expander whenever there is a planned third space drainage. Thyroid profile test in asymptomatic patients planning IVF will help to identify subclinical hypothyroidism. OHSS is a self-limiting condition and a timely diagnosis with aggressive management can be lifesaving.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Versus Human Chorionic Gonadotropin for Ovulation Induction in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients Undergoing Intrauterine Insemination: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Ha Anh N. , Pham Toan D. , Dang Vinh Q. , Vuong Lan N. , Ho Tuong M.
Published: April 2019

Background: Gonadotropins have been recommended to improve ovulation, pregnancy and live birth rates in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients with anovulatory infertility and clomiphene citrate (CC) resistance. However, this could increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) triggering could significantly reduce the risk of OHSS in patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation. However, data on the use of GnRHa in intrauterine insemination (IUI) is limited. This study compared the effectiveness of GnRHa and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for ovulation induction in PCOS patients undergoing IUI.

Methods: This non-inferiority, single-centre, randomised controlled trial was conducted at IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam between April 2016 and May 2018. PCOS patients aged 18–37 years with CC resistance and [Formula: see text] 3 developing ([Formula: see text] 16 mm) follicles on trigger day after stimulation with gonadotropins were eligible. Those with uterine abnormalities or tubal damage or inseminated with frozen semen were excluded. Triptorelin 0.1 mg or hCG 5000 IU was used when there was [Formula: see text] 1 follicle of [Formula: see text] 17 mm. IUI was performed at 36 hours after triggering. Primary outcome was ongoing pregnancy. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, miscarriage and OHSS.

Results: A total of 380 patients were randomised (190 per group). Treatment groups had similar characteristics at baseline. Ongoing pregnancy rate was 23.7% in the GnRHa group versus 25.3% in the hCG group (Relative risk 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.66–1.34; p [Formula: see text] 0.81). Secondary outcome parameters were also not significantly different between the two groups. There were two cases of mild OHSS in the hCG group and none in the GnRHa group.

Conclusion: 0.1 mg triptorelin was non-inferior to 5000 IU hCG IU in PCOS patients undergoing ovulation induction by hMG followed by IUI with respect to pregnancy outcomes.
RNA-Mediated Virus Assembly: Mechanisms and Consequences for Viral Evolution and Therapy
Authors: Twarock Reidun , Stockley Peter G.
Published: April 2019

Viruses, entities composed of nucleic acids, proteins, and in some cases lipids lack the ability to replicate outside their target cells. Their components self-assemble at the nanoscale with exquisite precision—a key to their biological success in infection. Recent advances in structure determination and the development of biophysical tools such as single-molecule spectroscopy and noncovalent mass spectrometry allow unprecedented access to the detailed assembly mechanisms of simple virions. Coupling these techniques with mathematical modeling and bioinformatics has uncovered a previously unsuspected role for genomic RNA in regulating formation of viral capsids, revealing multiple, dispersed RNA sequence/structure motifs [packaging signals (PSs)] that bind cognate coat proteins cooperatively. The PS ensemble controls assembly efficiency and accounts for the packaging specificity seen in vivo. The precise modes of action of the PSs vary between viral families, but this common principle applies across many viral families, including major human pathogens. These insights open up the opportunity to block or repurpose PS function in assembly for both novel antiviral therapy and gene/drug/vaccine applications.
A Vitamin Pattern Diet Is Associated with Decreased Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Chinese Women: Results from a Case Control Study in Taiyuan, China
Authors: Chen Qiong , Feng Yongliang , Yang Hailan , Wu Weiwei , Zhang Ping , Wang Keke , Wang Ying , Ko Jamie , Shen Jiaxin , Guo Lingling , Zhao Feng , Du Wenqiong , Ru Shouhang , Wang Suping , Zhang Yawei
Published: April 2019

Identification of modifiable dietary factors, which are involved in the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), could inform strategies to prevent GDM. Therefore, we examined the dietary nutrient patterns and evaluated their relationship with GDM risk in a Chinese population using a case control study design. A total of 1,464 GDM cases and 8,092 non-GDM controls were included in the final analysis. Dietary intake was assessed using a 33-item food frequency questionnaire, and nutrients were estimated using the Chinese Standard Tables of Food Consumption. Dietary nutrient patterns were identified using factor analysis, and their associations with GDM risk were evaluated using unconditional logistic regression models adjusting for total energy intake, maternal age, high blood pressure, education, maternal body mass index (BMI), parity, and family history of diabetes. A “vitamin” nutrient pattern was characterized as the consumption of diet rich in vitamin A, carotene, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin C, dietary fiber, folate, calcium, and potassium. For every quartile increase in the vitamin factor score during one year prior to conception, the first trimester, and the second trimester of pregnancy, the GDM risk decreased by 9% (OR: 0.91, 95%CI: 0.86-0.96), 9% (OR: 0.91, 95%CI: 0.86-0.96), and 10% (OR: 0.90, 95%CI: 0.85-0.95), respectively. The significant reduced GDM risk was seen in women regardless of age and parity, and slightly stronger effect was found in women whose age≤30 and women who are nulliparous across the three time periods. The significant association was also found in women whose BMI≤24 with similar effect size across the three time periods. Our study suggests that the vitamin nutrient pattern diet is associated with decreased GDM risk. Additional studies are necessary to explore the underlying mechanism of this relationship.
High SALM3 Expression in Tumor Cells and Fibroblasts Is Correlated with Poor Prognosis in Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: Liu Ying , Chen Xiaoli , Chen Xi , Yang Xiaobing , Song Qingjie , Wu Han
Published: April 2019

Objective. The synaptic adhesion-like molecule (SALM) family is largely restricted to neural tissues and is involved in the regulation of neurite outgrowth and synapse formation. However, the expression of SALM3 in gastric cancer (GC) and its clinical significance remain unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic value of SALM3 in patients with GC.Patients and Methods. Expression of SALM3 was validated by tissue microarrays from 730 GC patients and statistically assessed for correlations with the clinical parameters and the prognosis of the patients. The transcriptional and survival data of SALM3 in GC patients were also mined through the Oncomine and Kaplan-Meier Plotter databases.Results. SALM3 is overexpressed in the tumor cells and fibroblasts of clinical GC tissues, and a high level of SALM3 was significantly associated with tumor invasive characteristics. Cox proportional hazards univariate and multivariate regression analyses revealed SALM3 expression in tumor cells or stroma as an independent prognostic factor in the overall survival rate of GC patients. Furthermore, the survival of GC patients with high SALM3 expression in both tumor cells and fibroblasts was significantly poorer than that of the other groups. Oncomine and Kaplan-Meier Plotter analyses further confirmed high levels of SALM3 expression in GC, and high levels of SALM3 expression were associated with shorter survival in patients.Conclusion. SALM3 may be a prognostic factor for GC and may potentially be a high-priority therapeutic target.
Myocardial Ischemia and Diabetes Mellitus: Role of Oxidative Stress in the Connection between Cardiac Metabolism and Coronary Blood Flow
Authors: Severino Paolo , D’Amato Andrea , Netti Lucrezia , Pucci Mariateresa , Infusino Fabio , Maestrini Viviana , Mancone Massimo , Fedele Francesco
Published: April 2019

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) has several risk factors, among which diabetes mellitus represents one of the most important. In diabetic patients, the pathophysiology of myocardial ischemia remains unclear yet: some have atherosclerotic plaque which obstructs coronary blood flow, others show myocardial ischemia due to coronary microvascular dysfunction in the absence of plaques in epicardial vessels. In the cross-talk between myocardial metabolism and coronary blood flow (CBF), ion channels have a main role, and, in diabetic patients, they are involved in the pathophysiology of IHD. The exposition to the different cardiovascular risk factors and the ischemic condition determine an imbalance of the redox state, defined as oxidative stress, which shows itself with oxidant accumulation and antioxidant deficiency. In particular, several products of myocardial metabolism, belonging to oxidative stress, may influence ion channel function, altering their capacity to modulate CBF, in response to myocardial metabolism, and predisposing to myocardial ischemia. For this reason, considering the role of oxidative and ion channels in the pathophysiology of myocardial ischemia, it is allowed to consider new therapeutic perspectives in the treatment of IHD.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a Diagnosis to be Discussed
Authors: Jemec Gregor B.E.
Published: April 2019

One of the values of case reports is that they foster communication between the involved parties. The cases included in this mini-review all underline different aspects of communication: between peers but also between physicians and patients. Few things, if any, can equal the concrete occasion to discuss empirical data. Among physicians, communication can not only create awareness but just as importantly provide solutions or suggest perspective to problems, while communication with patients is at the very core of medicine. These aspects are demonstrated in four cases dealing with the disease hidradenitis suppurativa.
Simultaneous Comparison of Electrocardiographic Imaging and Epicardial Contact Mapping in Structural Heart Disease
Authors: Graham Adam J. , Orini Michele , Zacur Ernesto , Dhillon Gurpreet , Daw Holly , Srinivasan Niel T. , Lane Jem D. , Cambridge Alex , Garcia Jason , O’Reilly Nanci J. , Whittaker-Axon Sarah , Taggart Peter , Lowe Martin , Finlay Malcolm , Earley Mark J. , Chow Antony , Sporton Simon , Dhinoja Mehul , Schilling Richard J. , Hunter Ross J. , Lambiase Pier D.
Published: April 2019

Background:

The accuracy of ECG imaging (ECGI) in structural heart disease remains uncertain. This study aimed to provide a detailed comparison of ECGI and contact-mapping system (CARTO) electrograms.

Methods:

Simultaneous epicardial mapping using CARTO (Biosense-Webster, CA) and ECGI (CardioInsight) in 8 patients was performed to compare electrogram morphology, activation time (AT), and repolarization time (RT). Agreement between AT and RT from CARTO and ECGI was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient,
ρ

AT

and
ρ

RT

, root mean square error,
E

AT

and
E

RT

, and Bland-Altman plots.

Results:

After geometric coregistration, 711 (439–905; median, first-third quartiles) ECGI and CARTO points were paired per patient. AT maps showed
ρ

AT

=0.66 (0.53–0.73) and
E

AT

=24 (21–32) ms, RT maps showed
ρ

RT

=0.55 (0.41–0.71) and
E

RT

=51 (38–70) ms. The median correlation coefficient measuring the morphological similarity between the unipolar electrograms was equal to 0.71 (0.65–0.74) for the entire signal, 0.67 (0.59–0.76) for QRS complexes, and 0.57 (0.35–0.76) for T waves. Local activation map correlation,
ρ

AT

, was lower when default filters were used (0.60 (0.30–0.71),
P
=0.053). Small misalignment of the ECGI and CARTO geometries (below ±4 mm and ±4°) could introduce variations in the median
ρ

AT

up to ±25%. Minimum distance between epicardial pacing sites and the region of earliest activation in ECGI was 13.2 (0.0–28.3) mm from 25 pacing sites with stimulation to QRS interval <40 ms.

Conclusions:

This simultaneous assessment demonstrates that ECGI maps activation and repolarization parameters with moderate accuracy. ECGI and contact electrogram correlation is sensitive to electrode apposition and geometric alignment. Further technological developments may improve spatial resolution.
Association of Long-Term Exposure to Particulate Matter and Ozone With Health Status and Mortality in Patients After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Malik Ali O. , Jones Philip G. , Chan Paul S. , Peri-Okonny Poghni A. , Hejjaji Vittal , Spertus John A.
Published: April 2019

Background:

Long-term exposure to particulate matter <2.5 µm in diameter (PM
2.5
) and ozone has been associated with the development and progression of cardiovascular disease and, in the case of PM
2.5
, higher cardiovascular mortality. Whether exposure to PM
2.5
and ozone is associated with patients’ health status and quality of life is unknown. We used data from 2 prospective myocardial infarction (MI) registries to assess the relationship between long-term PM
2.5
and ozone exposure with health status outcomes 1 year after an MI.

Methods and Results:

TRIUMPH (Translational Research Investigating Underlying Disparities in Acute Myocardial Infarction) and PREMIER (Prospective Registry Evaluating Myocardial Infarction: Events and Recovery) enrolled patients presenting with MI at 31 US hospitals between 2003 and 2008. One year later, patients were assessed with the disease-specific Seattle Angina Questionnaire, and 5-year mortality was assessed with the Centers for Disease Control’s National Death Index. Individual patients’ exposures to PM
2.5
and ozone over the year after their MI were estimated from the Environment Protection Agency’s Fused Air Quality Surface Using Downscaling tool that integrates monitoring station data and atmospheric models to predict daily air pollution exposure at the census tract level. We assessed the association of exposure to ozone and PM
2.5
with 1-year health status and mortality over 5 years using regression models adjusting for age, sex, race, socioeconomic status, date of enrollment, and comorbidities. In completely adjusted models, higher PM
2.5
and ozone exposure were independently associated with poorer Seattle Angina Questionnaire summary scores at 1-year (β estimate per +1 SD increase =−0.8 [95% CI, −1.4 to −0.3;
P
=0.002] for PM
2.5
and −0.9 [95% CI, −1.3 to −0.4;
P
<0.001] for ozone). Moreover, higher PM
2.5
exposure, but not ozone, was independently associated with greater mortality risk (hazard ratio =1.13 per +1 SD [95% CI, 1.07–1.20;
P
<0.001]).

Conclusions:

In our study, greater exposure to PM
2.5
and ozone was associated with poorer 1-year health status following an MI, and PM
2.5
was associated with increased risk of 5-year death.
Disrupted core-periphery structure of multimodal brain networks in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Guillon Jeremy , Chavez Mario , Battiston Federico , Attal Yohan , La Corte Valentina , Thiebaut de Schotten Michel , Dubois Bruno , Schwartz Denis , Colliot Olivier , De Vico Fallani Fabrizio
Published: April 2019

In Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the progressive atrophy leads to aberrant network reconfigurations both at structural and functional levels. In such network reorganization, the core and peripheral nodes appear to be crucial for the prediction of clinical outcome because of their ability to influence large-scale functional integration. However, the role of the different types of brain connectivity in such prediction still remains unclear. Using a multiplex network approach we integrated information from DWI, fMRI, and MEG brain connectivity to extract an enriched description of the core-periphery structure in a group of AD patients and age-matched controls. Globally, the regional coreness—that is, the probability of a region to be in the multiplex core—significantly decreased in AD patients as result of a random disconnection process initiated by the neurodegeneration. Locally, the most impacted areas were in the core of the network—including temporal, parietal, and occipital areas—while we reported compensatory increments for the peripheral regions in the sensorimotor system. Furthermore, these network changes significantly predicted the cognitive and memory impairment of patients. Taken together these results indicate that a more accurate description of neurodegenerative diseases can be obtained from the multimodal integration of neuroimaging-derived network data.
Genetic diversity of three Aegla species (Decapoda, Anomura) revealed by AFLP and mtDNA markers
Authors: Zimmermann Bianca L. , De Vargas Machado Jober V. , Santos Sandro , Bartholomei-Santos Marlise L.
Published: April 2019

Representatives of the genus Aegla present a conserved morphology; thus, the increased use of molecular markers has raised many taxonomic issues. We used AFLP and mtDNA to investigate the genetic differentiation and phylogenetic relationships of morphologically similar species with overlapping distribution areas in southern Brazil: A. georginae, A. ludwigi, and A. platensis. While A. platensis is widely distributed, the critically endangered A. georginae and A. ludwigi have limited distributions. Although both markers showed populations with low levels of genetic variability, they differed markedly in revealing relationships between populations; according to AFLP, the genetic distances between A. platensis populations were as high as those between distinct species, a result not observed when considering mtDNA data. We emphasize that the use of multiple lines of evidence is necessary for defining correct levels of genetic diversity and a good species-level taxonomic resolution. Such features are essential for the management and conservation of Aegla species.
First record of Propagurus haigae (McLaughlin, 1997) (Decapoda, Anomura, Paguridae) from Japan
Authors: Osawa Masayuki , Higashiji Takuo
Published: April 2019

Propagurus haigae (McLaughlin, 1997), a relatively large-sized species of Paguridae, is reported for the first time from Japanese waters based on a single specimen collected from a depth of 620 m off Ie Island, central Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan. It is the third species of the genus Propagurus McLaughlin & de Saint Laurent, 1998 known from Japanese waters. The present specimen greatly extends the distribution range of P. haigae, because the previous northernmost record was the Molucca Sea in Indonesia.
Ontology as Critique: On Jean-Luc Nancy’s Inoperative Community
Authors: Acosta López María del Rosario
Published: April 2019

The following paper addresses itself to the question of ontology in the work of Jean-Luc Nancy. In so doing it attempts to read Nancy’s ontological project as a project of the deconstruction of structural forms of political violence. To this end, Nancy’s notion of “inoperative community” is brought into dialogue with Benjamin in order to show how, in Nancy’s work, ontology operates not as the refusal of critique, but as its very condition.
Incomplete Secularization of History: Ethan Kleinberg and Hayden White
Authors: Chorell Torbjörn Gustafsson
Published: April 2019

According to the displacement model of secularization, religious-theological concepts, themes, and values have been reinterpreted in non-religious contexts without fully dispensing with the religious content. Secularization is thus incomplete. The incomplete secularization argument can be used as a lens through which to read Ethan Kleinberg’s deconstructive approach to the past. In his narrative, as reconstructed here, deconstruction promises to bring us closer to a secular relationship to the past than the ontological realism Kleinberg says still dominates contemporary historical theory. By contrasting Kleinberg’s analysis with Hayden White’s, whose oeuvre can be read as structured by the idea of incomplete secularization and a wish to liberate history from religious themes in order to enable a direct confrontation with meaninglessness, I argue that Kleinberg’s deconstructive approach does not fulfill its promise. Rather, it opens up a post-secular historiography in which religious themes might find a place at the very heart of historical reasoning.
Littoral Pycnogonida from the Socotra Archipelago
Authors: Bartolino Valerio , Krapp Franz
Published: April 2019

Nine pycnogonid species from four different families were collected. Propallene socotrana n. sp. and Anoplodactylus erythraeus n. sp. are described. Callipallene cf. dubiosa Hedgpeth, 1949 is figured and its systematic position discussed. The Pycnogonida fauna around the Socotra Archipelago (Yemen) supports the hypothesis the Socotra Archipelago represents an important transient zoogeographic region between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Evolution of crabs – history and deconstruction of a prime example of convergence
Authors: Scholtz Gerhard
Published: April 2019

Compared with the elongate bodies of shrimps or lobsters, crabs are characterised by a compact body organisation with a depressed, short carapace and a ventrally folded pleon. The evolutionary transformation from a lobster-like crustacean towards a crab is called ‘carcinization’ and has been interpreted as a dramatic morphological change. Nevertheless, the crab-shape evolved convergently in a number of lineages within Decapoda. Accordingly, numerous hypotheses about internal and external factors have been presented, which all try to explain these frequent convergent carcinization events despite the seemingly fundamental changes in the body organisation. However, what a crab is lies greatly in the eye of the beholder and most of the hypotheses about the lobster/crab transformation are biased by untested assumptions. Furthermore, there are two meanings of the word ‘crab’ within decapods: one, the phylogenetic meaning, refers to the clade Brachyura; the other, more general and typological use of the word crab, describes decapods with a certain body shape. These two meanings should not be confused when the issue of carcinization is discussed. Here, I propose a definition of what a crab is, i.e. what is meant when we speak about carcinization. I show that not all Brachyura are crabs in the typological sense. Carcinization occurred at least twice within the clade. Among Anomala there is further evidence that crab-shaped Lithodidae derived from a hermit-crab like ancestor. Carcinization is not restricted to Anomala plus Brachyura (Meiura) but is also found in Achelata, namely in slipper lobsters. A deconstruction of the crab-shape reveals that parts of it appear in various combinations among all decapod groups. Only a certain threshold of number and quality of crab-features makes us call an animal a ‘crab’. This reveals that carcinization does not involve such dramatic changes in morphology as has been suggested. Moreover similar alterations of body shapes appear frequently in other crustacean taxa and in various animal groups as diverse as sharks and sea urchins. Hence morphological constraints, macroevolution, trends, tendencies, or underlying synapomorphies of any kind are not necessary assumptions for the explanation of the evolution of crabs.
Impact of climate and moonlight on a venomous mammal, the Javan slow loris (Nycticebus javanicus Geoffroy, 1812)
Authors: Rode-Margono Eva Johanna , Anne-Isola Nekaris K.
Published: April 2019

Predation pressure, food availability, and activity may be affected by level of moonlight and climatic conditions. While many nocturnal mammals reduce activity at high lunar illumination to avoid predators (lunarphobia), most visually-oriented nocturnal primates and birds increase activity in bright nights (lunarphilia) to improve foraging efficiency. Similarly, weather conditions may influence activity level and foraging ability. We examined the response of Javan slow lorises (Nycticebus javanicus Geoffroy, 1812) to moonlight and temperature. We radio-tracked 12 animals in West Java, Indonesia, over 1.5 years, resulting in over 600 hours direct observations. We collected behavioural and environmental data including lunar illumination, number of human observers, and climatic factors, and 185 camera trap nights on potential predators. Nycticebus javanicus reduced active behaviours in bright nights. Although this might be interpreted as a predator avoidance strategy, animals remained active when more observers were present. We did not find the same effect of lunar illumination on two potential predators. We detected an interactive effect of minimum temperature and moonlight, e.g. in bright nights slow lorises only reduce activity when it is cold. Slow lorises also were more active in higher humidity and when it was cloudy, whereas potential predators were equally active across conditions. As slow lorises are well-adapted to avoid/defend predators by crypsis, mimicry and the possession of venom, we argue that lunarphobia may be due to prey availability. In bright nights that are cold, the combined effects of high luminosity and low temperature favour reduced activity and even torpor. We conclude that Javan slow lorises are lunarphobic – just as the majority of mammals.
Morphology and DNA sequence data reveal the presence of Globodera ellingtonae in the Andean region
Authors: Lax Paola , Rondan Dueñas Juan C. , Franco-Ponce Javier , Gardenal Cristina N. , Doucet Marcelo E.
Published: April 2019

Potato cyst nematodes, G. rostochiensis and G. pallida, are the most economically important nematode pests of potatoes worldwide and are subject to strict quarantine regulations in many countries. Globodera ellingtonae was recently described from Oregon (USA), with its host-plant in the field being still unknown. Roots of Andean potatoes from the North of Argentina have been found attacked by this nematode, providing further evidence that this is a potato cyst nematode species, along with G. pallida and G. rostochiensis. New information about morphological, biological and molecular aspects of G. ellingtonae is provided for diagnostic purposes. The Argentine population showed morphological differences from specimens from Oregon; therefore, new diagnostic characters were defined to differentiate G. ellingtonae from its closest species. The Hsp90 gene was shown to be a good diagnostic marker for discriminating the three PCN species. The importance of the detection of G. ellingtonae on potatoes in the Andean region is not restricted to a regional level, since the nematode is also present in USA. This species can pose a serious problem to potato crop, especially when infected tubers are used as seeds. The distribution in the South American Andes is likely to extend the currently known distribution areas because cysts are passively transported. There is a need to evaluate the possible damage it may cause to potato crops. Morphological and molecular diagnoses conducted in this work provide fundamental information for the protection of potato crops not only in those countries in the Americas where the species has already been detected, but also worldwide.
Genealogy of the nuclear β-fibrinogen intron 7 in Lissotriton boscai (Caudata, Salamandridae): concordance with mtDNA and implications for phylogeography and speciation
Authors: Teixeira José , Martínez-Solano Iñigo , Buckley David , Tarroso Pedro , García-París Mario , Ferrand Nuno
Published: April 2019

The power of phylogeographic inference resides in its ability to integrate information from multiple sources in an iterative hypothesis- testing framework. In this paper, we build upon previous mtDNA-based hypotheses about the evolutionary history of the Iberian newt Lissotriton boscai using sequences of the highly variable nuclear β-fibrinogen intron 7. In addition to the nuclear sequences, we produced new mtDNA data across the species range to delineate contact zones and test the congruence between nuclear and mitochondrial datasets at the same level of spatial organization. Through a combination of phylogenetic, phylogeographic continuous diffusion, and genetic landscape modelling analyses, we infer the evolutionary history of the species. We found notable congruence between nuclear and mtDNA datasets, which confirms deep and consistent differentiation between two major lineages that originated in the Miocene. Additionally, we found a new nuclear haplogroup with no mtDNA counterpart, roughly circumscribed to the Iberian Sistema Central mountains, and extensive areas of nuclear admixture across mtDNA lineages. We describe potential historical dispersal routes from an ancestral hypothetical refugium in the western end of the Sistema Central in central Portugal and highlight how deep phylogeographic breaks do not necessarily indicate cryptic speciation events.
Geometric morphometric analysis of skull morphology reveals loss of phylogenetic signal at the generic level in extant lagomorphs (Mammalia: Lagomorpha)
Authors: Ge Deyan , Yao Lu , Xia Lin , Zhang Zhaoqun , Yang Qisen
Published: April 2019

The intergeneric phylogeny of Lagomorpha had been controversial for a long time before a robust phylogeny was reconstructed based on seven nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences. However, skull morphology of several endemic genera remained poorly understood. The morphology of supraorbital processes in Lagomorpha is normally used as a diagnostic characteristic in taxonomy, but whether shape change of this structure parallels its genetic divergence has not been investigated. In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of the skull morphology of all 12 extant genera using geometric morphometrics. These results indicated that no significant phylogenetic signal is observed in the shape change of the dorsal and ventral views of the cranium as well as in the lateral view of the mandible. The supraorbital processes also show insignificant phylogenetic signal in shape change. Similarly, mapping the centroid size (averaged by genus) of these datasets onto the phylogeny also showed insignificant phylogenetic signal. Aside from homoplasy caused by convergent evolution of skull shape, the massive extinction of lagomorphs after the late Miocene is proposed as one of the main causes for diluting phylogenetic signals in their morphological evolution. Acknowledging the loss of phylogenetic signals in skull shape and supraorbital processes of extant genera sheds new light on the long-standing difficulties for understanding higher-level systematics in Lagomorpha.
Triadobatrachus massinoti, the earliest known lissamphibian (Vertebrata: Tetrapoda) re-examined by μCT scan, and the evolution of trunk length in batrachians
Authors: Ascarrunz Eduardo , Rage Jean-Claude , Legreneur Pierre , Laurin Michel
Published: April 2019

Triadobatrachus massinotiis a batrachian known from a single fossil from the Early Triassic of Madagascar that presents a combination of apomorphic salientian and plesiomorphic batrachian characters. Herein we offer a revised description of the specimen based on X-ray micro-tomography data. We report previously unknown caudal vertebrae, possible mentomeckelians, and hidden parts of other structures. We also confirm the presence of a ventrolateral ledge on the opisthotic, and we rectify some previous interpretations. There are no cervical ribs and the jaw may have had an angular. The presacral region is composed of 15 vertebrae with a unique atlas-axis complex instead of 14 vertebrae with a bipartite atlas. The configuration of the pelvic girdle is not very clear, although it is likely more plesiomorphic than the anuran- like condition previously assumed. Our re-assessment of the saltatorial performance of Triadobatrachussupports the traditional interpretation that this animal was not a specialised jumper. In order to assess the sequence of events in the early evolution of the salientian morphotype, we estimated the ancestral length of the trunk region of batrachians under different hypotheses of lissamphibian relationships and divergence times. Most of our results suggest that some trunk reduction took place before the divergence of caudates and salientians (presumably in the Permian), and that the trunk of Triadobatrachusmostly reflects this ancestral condition. Thus, trunk reduction possibly preceded the anteroposterior elongation of the ilia and the shortening of the tail seen in Triadobatrachus. We also provide an updated review of the data relevant for the use of Triadobatrachusas a calibration constraint in molecular divergence age analyses that meets recently-suggested standards.