bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drivers’ Perceptions of Smartphone Applications for Real-Time Route Planning and Distracted Driving Prevention
Authors: Shaaban Khaled
Published: March 2019

Given the increasing importance and availability of traffic-related smartphone applications, understanding their potential use is vital, especially in developing countries. This research explores motorist perceptions of the installation and use of two smartphone applications—a distraction-prevention application and a real-time traffic information and navigation application—in Qatar, a rapidly developing country in the Arabian Gulf region. This study represents the first attempt to investigate the potential market for these types of applications in a region with a unique social and cultural environment. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to examine the drivers’ interest in using both applications, their willingness to buy the applications, and their data privacy concerns. The results indicated that the potential market for these types of smartphone applications in Qatar is high. The potential for the real-time route planning application was found to be much higher than that of the antidistraction application, especially among female drivers. A high percentage of the drivers, especially younger and local drivers, were less enthusiastic about installing and using the distracted driving prevention application. Most of the participants willing to use both smartphone applications did not have data privacy concerns, but in return for allowing the applications to access their data, they expected some reduction in travel time and a safer trip. These findings provide a direction for the development of future policies and smart solutions in this region.
Thermosetting Coupling Analysis and Parameter Optimization of the Plastic Lining Pump Structure
Authors: Tang Lingfeng , Liu Mingwei , Ma Feihong
Published: March 2019

In order to obtain the optimum structure of the lining pump under the condition of fluid thermosetting coupling, according to the given design parameters, the structural parameters of the pump were calculated, the three-dimensional geometric model was established, and the flow field analysis was carried out by CFD; the inlet angle βb1, outlet angle βb2, wrap angle φ, inlet diameter D1, and outlet diameter D2 of the impeller were selected as the five factors to design orthogonal experiment, and the results were analyzed by range analysis; then, the efficiency and cavitation allowance were obtained as combined parameters under the evaluation index. The displacement deformation and stress distribution under the condition of the coupling field were obtained by the fluid-solid coupling analysis, and the orthogonal experimental table of the impeller structure of the lining plastic pump was established, and then the orthogonal experimental results are analyzed to obtain the influence of each structural parameter under the condition of each evaluation index and the optimum combination parameters. The influence situation and the best combination parameters under the condition of evaluation index, taking the minimum displacement deformation and minimum stress of impeller as the reference index, and the optimum combination parameters under the condition of minimum displacement and stress were as follows: the inlet diameter D1 was 76 mm, the outlet diameter D2 was 252 mm, the inlet angle was 26°, the outlet angle was 24°, and the wrap angle was 115°. Finally, the 3D printing technology was used to print out the physical model to the hydraulic performance experiment verification.
iNOS Inhibition Reduces Lung Mechanical Alterations and Remodeling Induced by Particulate Matter in Mice
Authors: Prado Carla Máximo , Righetti Renato Fraga , dos Santos Lopes Fernanda Degobbi Tenorio Quirino , Leick Edna Aparecida , Arantes-Costa Fernanda Magalhães , de Almeida Francine Maria , Saldiva Paulo Hilário Nascimento , Mauad Thais , Tibério Iolanda de Fátima Lopes Calvo , Martins Mílton de Arruda
Published: March 2019

Background. The epidemiologic association between pulmonary exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM) and acute lung damage is well known. However, the mechanism involved in the effects of repeated exposures of PM in the lung injury is poorly documented. This study tested the hypotheses that chronic nasal instillation of residual oil fly ash (ROFA) induced not only distal lung and airway inflammation but also remodeling. In addition, we evaluated the effects of inducible nitric oxide inhibition in these responses. For this purpose, airway and lung parenchyma were evaluated by quantitative analysis of collagen and elastic fibers, immunohistochemistry for macrophages, neutrophils, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and alveolar septa 8-iso prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF-2α) detection. Anesthetized in vivo (airway resistance, elastance, H, G, and Raw) respiratory mechanics were also analyzed. C57BL6 mice received daily 60ul of ROFA (intranasal) for five (ROFA-5d) or fifteen days (ROFA-15d). Controls have received saline (SAL). Part of the animals has received 1400W (SAL+1400W and ROFA-15d+1400W), an iNOS inhibitor, for four days before the end of the protocol. A marked neutrophil and macrophage infiltration and an increase in the iNOS, nNOS, and 8-iso-PGF2 α expression was observed in peribronchiolar and alveolar wall both in ROFA-5d and in ROFA-15d groups. There was an increment of the collagen and elastic fibers in alveolar and airway walls in ROFA-15d group. The iNOS inhibition reduced all alterations induced by ROFA, except for the 8-iso-PGF2 α expression. In conclusion, repeated particulate matter exposures induce extracellular matrix remodeling of airway and alveolar walls, which could contribute to the pulmonary mechanical changes observed. The mechanism involved is, at least, dependent on the inducible nitric oxide activation.
A Reversed Trend: Care for Limited English Proficiency Patients in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Greenky David , Levine Alyssa , Gillespie Scott E. , Murray Brittany
Published: March 2019

Objectives. Previous studies in pediatric emergency departments (EDs) showed patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) had gaps in care compared with English-speaking patients. In 2010, the Joint Commission released patient-centered communication standards addressing these gaps. We evaluate the current care of LEP patients in the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) EDs. Methods. This was a retrospective cohort study of patients <18 years that presented to our EDs in 2016. Length of stay (LOS), change in triage status, return-visit rates, and hospital disposition were compared between patients who requested an interpreter and those who did not. Results. The population included 152,945 patients from 232,787 ED encounters in 2016. Interpreters were requested for 12.1% of encounters. For ED LOS, a model-adjusted difference of 0.77% was found between interpreter groups. For change in triage status, adjusted odds were 7% higher in the interpreter requested cohort. For ED readmission within 7 days, adjusted odds were 3% higher in the interpreter requested cohort. These effect sizes are small (ES < 0.2). Conclusions. Our study showed low ES of the differences in ED metrics between LEP and English-speaking patients, suggesting little clinical difference between the two groups. The impact of this improvement should be further studied.
Dynamics and Optimal Harvesting Control for a Stochastic One‐Predator‐Two‐Prey Time Delay System with Jumps
Authors: Ma Tingting , Meng Xinzhu , Chang Zhengbo
Published: March 2019

We consider a stochastic one‐predator‐two‐prey harvesting model with time delays and Lévy jumps in this paper. Using the comparison theorem of stochastic differential equations and asymptotic approaches, sufficient conditions for persistence in mean and extinction of three species are derived. By analyzing the asymptotic invariant distribution, we study the variation of the persistent level of a population. Then we obtain the conditions of global attractivity and stability in distribution. Furthermore, making use of Hessian matrix method and optimal harvesting theory of differential equations, the explicit forms of optimal harvesting effort and maximum expectation of sustainable yield are obtained. Some numerical simulations are given to illustrate the theoretical results.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange as Management of Complicated Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Other Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Aguirre-Valencia David , Naranjo-Escobar Juan , Posso-Osorio Iván , Macía-Mejía María Carmenza , Nieto-Aristizábal Ivana , Barrera Tatiana , Obando María Alejandra , Tobón Gabriel J.
Published: March 2019

Introduction. Autoimmune diseases include a diverse and complex group of pathologies with a broad clinical spectrum due to the production of autoantibodies, which generates multisystemic compromise. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a good additive treatment for immunosuppression due to its action over the autoantibodies. Objectives. To describe the main clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and other systemic autoimmune diseases managed with TPE. Methodology. This descriptive retrospective study enrolled patients with systemic autoimmune diseases who received TPE. Results. In total, 66 patients with a median age of 33.5 years (24-53 years) were included; the majority were females [n=51 (77.27%)]. Forty (60.61%) patients were diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus. In these cases, the main indication for TPE was diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH; n=20, 30.3%) and neurolupus (n=9, 13.6%). No TPE-related deaths occurred, and the main complication was hemorrhage, without significant differences among the four types of TPE solutions used. The overall outcome was improvement in 41 (62.12%) patients. Conclusion. TPE is safe and effective in patients with severe manifestations of autoimmune diseases.
Analytical Predictive Guidance Algorithm Based on Single Ballistic Coefficient Switching for Mars Aerocapture
Authors: Peng Yu-ming , Xu Bo , Lu Xi , Fang Bao-dong , Zhang Heng
Published: March 2019

Aerocapture can significantly reduce the velocity increment required for a planetary orbital mission and reduce the amount of propellant needed. And it may be one of the key technologies necessary for large-scale space exploration missions in the future. In this paper, the analytical solution of aerocapture based on the piecewise variable ballistic coefficient is studied around the exploration of Mars. An aerocapture analytical predictive guidance algorithm for single ballistic coefficient switching is proposed. The terminal velocity after the ballistic coefficient switching can be obtained by analytical calculation in real time. The adaptive control of the switching time of the ballistic coefficient is realized. The simulation results show that the guidance algorithm is accurate and robust, which can effectively overcome the influence of atmospheric density error, aerodynamic parameter error, and initial state uncertainty.
Research on Instability Boundaries of Control Force for Trajectory Correction Projectiles
Authors: Li Rupeng , Li Dongguang , Fan Jieru
Published: March 2019

The balance of stability and maneuverability is the foundation of the trajectory correction projectile. For the terminal correction projectile without an attitude feedback loop, a larger control force is expected which may cause an instability. This paper proposes a novel method to derive instability boundaries for the control force magnitude. No additional coordinate system is needed in this method. By introducing the concept of angular compensation matrix, the exterior ballistic linearized equations considering control force are established. The necessary prerequisite for a stable flight under control is given by the Routh stability criterion. The instability boundaries for the control force magnitude are derived. The results of example flights are 13.5% more accurate compared with that in relevant research. Numerical simulations demonstrate that if the control force magnitude lies in the unstable scope derived in this paper, the projectile loses its stability. Furthermore, the effects of the projectile pitch, velocity, and roll rate on flight stability during correction are investigated using the proposed instability boundaries.
Subacute Osteomyelitis of the Pediatric Talus: A First Report of Brodie’s Abscess from Morganella morganii
Authors: Harris Mitchell C. , DeRosa Daniel C. , West Priscilla A.
Published: March 2019

Brodie’s abscess is a subacute form of osteomyelitis which generally occurs in the metaphysis of the femur and tibia in the pediatric population. Pathogens are most commonly Gram-positive bacteria, notably Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. In this article, we describe a young pediatric patient presenting with subacute ankle pain with a subsequent diagnosis of Brodie’s abscess of the talus secondary to Morganella morganii. We review the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of this unique patient. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Morganella morganii as a cause of Brodie’s abscess.
Prevalence of Coronary Endothelial and Microvascular Dysfunction in Women with Symptoms of Ischemia and No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease Is Confirmed by a New Cohort: The NHLBI-Sponsored Women’s Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation–Coronary Vascular Dysfunction (WISE-CVD)
Authors: Anderson R. David , Petersen John W. , Mehta Puja K. , Wei Janet , Johnson B. Delia , Handberg Eileen M. , Kar Saibal , Samuels Bruce , Azarbal Babak , Kothawade Kamlesh , Kelsey Sheryl F. , Sharaf Barry , Shaw Leslee J. , Sopko George , Bairey Merz C. Noel , Pepine Carl J.
Published: March 2019

Objective. In a separate, contemporary cohort, we sought to confirm findings of the original Women’s Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation (WISE). Background. The original WISE observed a high prevalence of both invasively determined coronary endothelial and coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) that predicted adverse events in follow-up. Methods. We comparatively studied the WISE-Coronary Vascular Dysfunction (CVD) cohort (2009-2011), with signs and symptoms of ischemia but without significant CAD, to the original WISE (1997-2001) cohort. CMD was defined as coronary flow reserve (CFR) ≤2.5, or endothelial dysfunction as epicardial coronary artery constriction to acetylcholine (ACH), or <20% epicardial coronary dilation to nitroglycerin (NTG). Results. In WISE (n=181) and WISE-CVD (n=235) women, mean age in both was 54 years, and 83% were white (WISE) vs 74% (WISE-CVD, p=0.04). Use of hormone replacement therapy was less frequent in WISE-CVD vs WISE (46% vs 57%, p=0.026) as was presence of hypertension (40% vs 52%, p=0.013), hyperlipidemia (20% vs 46%, p<0.0001), and smoking (46% vs 56%, p=0.036). Similar rates were observed in WISE-CVD and WISE cohorts for CMD (mean CFR 2.7±0.6 vs 2.6±0.8, p=0.35), mean change in diameter with intracoronary ACH (0.2±10.0 vs 1.6±12.8 mm, p=0.34), and mean change in diameter with intracoronary NTG (9.7±13.0 vs 9.8±13.5 mm, p=0.94), respectively. Conclusions. This study confirms prevalence of CMD in the contemporary WISE-CVD cohort similar to that of the original WISE cohort, despite a lower risk factor burden in WISE-CVD. Because these coronary functional abnormalities predict major adverse cardiac events, clinical trials of therapies targeting these abnormalities are indicated.
Causes of Death in Implant Patients Treated in the Edentulous Jaw: A Comparison between 2098 Deceased Patients and the Swedish National Cause of Death Register
Authors: Kowar Jan , Stenport Victoria , Nilsson Mats , Jemt Torsten
Published: March 2019

Background. Previous research has reported an association between tooth loss and patient mortality, while the cause of death has not been elucidated. Objective. The purpose was to describe and compare the cause of death in implant patients treated consecutively in the edentulous arch with a reference population. Methods. Altogether, 3902 patients were included between 1986 and 2014. Data on the causes of death for deceased patients were compared to the Swedish National Cause of Death Register for a comparable time period. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated based on gender and age and tested for statistical significance. Results. Most deceased patients (2,098) died from diseases in the circulatory system (CVD; 42%) and from cancers (26%). SMR indicated a generally increased mortality (total group) compared to the reference population during inclusion (P<0.05; 1986–2014). Patients treated early (1986–1996) showed a lower SMR compared to patients treated later (P<0.05; 1997–2014) especially related to CVDs. Younger patients (<60 years at surgery) showed an increased mortality due to CVDs when treated late (1997–2014; SMR = 5.4, P<0.05). Elderly patients (>79 years at surgery) showed a significantly lower mortality in almost all observed causes of death (1986–2014; P<0.05) with also a significantly lower mortality due to CVDs during the early period (1986–1996; SMR = 0.3, P<0.05). Conclusion. An overall increased mortality was observed for the edentulous implant patient compared to the reference population. Elderly patients (>79 years) showed significantly lower mortality for all causes of death independent of the time period of implant surgery. Younger patients (<60 years) present an increased risk for early mortality related to CVD. SMR for all causes of death increased for patients treated late (1997–2014) as compared to patients treated early (1986–1996).
Purification of Angiotensin-I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptides Derived from Camellia oleifera Abel Seed Meal Hydrolysate
Authors: Yao Guang-long , He Wei , Wu You-gen , Chen Jian , Hu Xin-wen , Yu Jing
Published: March 2019

China is a large country that produces Camellia oleifera Abel seed meal (COASM), a by-product of tea-seed oil, which is only used as an organic fertilizer, resulting in a serious waste of high-quality resources. The preparation of the ACE inhibitory peptide from COASM and the study of its functional properties are of practical importance in improving the comprehensive utilization of COASM. Our manuscript presents an optimized preparation of ACE inhibitory peptides with alkaline protease and enzyme kinetics parameters. Ultrafiltration, gel chromatography, and RP-HPLC purification were conducted for ACE inhibitory peptides, and peptide molecular weight distribution and amino acid composition were analyzed in the enzymolysis liquid. The following were the conditions of the optimized enzymatic hydrolysis to obtain ACE inhibitory peptides from COASM: 15 times of hydrolysis in distilled water for 3.5 h at 50°C, pH = 8.5, substrate concentration of 17 mg/g, and addition of 6% (w/w) alkaline protease. Under this condition, the peptides produced exhibited an ACE inhibition rate of 79.24%, and the reaction kinetics parameters are as follows: Km = 0.152 mg/mL and Vmax = 0.130 mg/mL·min. The majority of ACE inhibitory peptides from COASM have molecular weight below 1 kDa, and a high ACE inhibitory rate was achieved after dextran gel chromatography separation and purification (whose IC50 was 0.678 mg/mL). The hydrophobic amino acid content in this fraction reached 51.21%.
Optimal Connection of Offshore Wind Farm with Maximization of Wind Capacity to Power Systems considering Losses and Security Constraints
Authors: Vasconcelos Leandro A. , Passos Filho João A. , de Oliveira Leonardo W. , Avila Othon F.
Published: March 2019

The technical, economic, and environmental constraints related to the construction of new transmission lines are complex issues related to the definition of points for connecting new offshore wind farms (OWFs) to the grid. In this context, it has become an important research topic to choose the best OWF connection point to a power system, among some geographically close to each other within a given region, aiming at ensuring maximum generation capacity of the wind farm and safe use of existing transmission network. The objective of this work is to present a methodology to determine the optimal OWF connection point in a power system, with maximum penetration of firm wind power and minimum loss, considering security constraints related to the “N−1” contingency criterion, exchange limits between areas, and a strategy to reduce the number of constraints in the optimization problem. The algorithm is modeled using a Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP), and it is evaluated in a tutorial system and three well-known other networks from literature: IEEE 14-Bus, IEEE RTS-79, and Southern Brazilian System.
Mathematical Analysis of a Mathematical Model of Chemovirotherapy: Effect of Drug Infusion Method
Authors: Malinzi Joseph
Published: March 2019

A mathematical model for the treatment of cancer using chemovirotherapy is developed with the aim of determining the efficacy of three drug infusion methods: constant, single bolus, and periodic treatments. The model is in the form of ODEs and is further extended into DDEs to account for delays as a result of the infection of tumor cells by the virus and chemotherapeutic drug responses. Analysis of the model is carried out for each of the three drug infusion methods. Analytic solutions are determined where possible and stability analysis of both steady state solutions for the ODEs and DDEs is presented. The results indicate that constant and periodic drug infusion methods are more efficient compared to a single bolus injection. Numerical simulations show that with a large virus burst size, irrespective of the drug infusion method, chemovirotherapy is highly effective compared to either treatments. The simulations further show that both delays increase the period within which a tumor can be cleared from body tissue.
Towards the Construction of a User Unique Authentication Mechanism on LMS Platforms through Model-Driven Engineering (MDE)
Authors: Herrera-Cubides Jhon Francined , Gaona-García Paulo Alonso , Salcedo-Salgado Geiner Alexis
Published: March 2019

In LOD, authentication is a key factor in the security dimension of linked data quality models. This is the case of (a) LMS that manages open educational resources (OERs), in training process, and (b) LMS integrated platforms, which also require authenticating users. Authentication tackles a range of problems such as users forgetting passwords and time consumption in repetitive logins in different applications. In the context of linked OERs that are developed in LMS, it is necessary to design guidelines in order to carry out the authentication process. This process authorizes access to different linked resources platforms. Therefore, to provide abstraction methods for this authentication process, it is proposed to work with model-driven architecture (MDA) approach. This paper proposes a security abstraction model on LMS, based on MDA. The proposed metamodel seeks to provide a set of guidelines on how to carry out unified authentication, establishing a common dialogue among stakeholders. Conclusion and future work are proposed in order to generate authentication instances that allow access to resources managed in different platforms.
Preclinical Efficacy of Covalent-Allosteric AKT Inhibitor Borussertib in Combination with Trametinib in KRAS-Mutant Pancreatic and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Weisner Jörn , Landel Ina , Reintjes Christoph , Uhlenbrock Niklas , Trajkovic-Arsic Marija , Dienstbier Niklas , Hardick Julia , Ladigan Swetlana , Lindemann Marius , Smith Steven , Quambusch Lena , Scheinpflug Rebekka , Depta Laura , Gontla Rajesh , Unger Anke , Müller Heiko , Baumann Matthias , Schultz-Fademrecht Carsten , Günther Georgia , Maghnouj Abdelouahid , Müller Matthias P. , Pohl Michael , Teschendorf Christian , Wolters Heiner , Viebahn Richard , Tannapfel Andrea , Uhl Waldemar , Hengstler Jan G. , Hahn Stephan A. , Siveke Jens T. , Rauh Daniel
Published: March 2019

Aberrations within the PI3K/AKT signaling axis are frequently observed in numerous cancer types, highlighting the relevance of these pathways in cancer physiology and pathology. However, therapeutic interventions employing AKT inhibitors often suffer from limitations associated with target selectivity, efficacy, or dose-limiting effects. Here we present the first crystal structure of autoinhibited AKT1 in complex with the covalent-allosteric inhibitor borussertib, providing critical insights into the structural basis of AKT1 inhibition by this unique class of compounds. Comprehensive biological and preclinical evaluation of borussertib in cancer-related model systems demonstrated a strong antiproliferative activity in cancer cell lines harboring genetic alterations within the PTEN, PI3K, and RAS signaling pathways. Furthermore, borussertib displayed antitumor activity in combination with the MEK inhibitor trametinib in patient-derived xenograft models of mutant KRAS pancreatic and colon cancer.

Significance:

Borussertib, a first-in-class covalent-allosteric AKT inhibitor, displays antitumor activity in combination with the MEK inhibitor trametinib in patient-derived xenograft models and provides a starting point for further pharmacokinetic/dynamic optimization.
Impact of Low Ankle-Brachial Index on the Risk of Recurrent Vascular Events
Authors: Abboud Halim , Monteiro Tavares Linsay , Labreuche Julien , Arauz Antonio , Bryer Alan , Lavados Pablo M. , Massaro Ayrton , Munoz Collazos Mario , Steg Philippe Gabriel , Yamout Bassem I. , Vicaut Eric , Amarenco Pierre ,   for the OPTIC Registry Investigators
Published: March 2019

Background and Purpose—

Low ankle-brachial index (ABI) identifies a stroke subgroup with high risk of recurrent stroke, cardiovascular events, and death. However, limited data exist on the relationship between low ABI and stroke in low and middle-income countries. Therefore, we evaluated the prevalence of ABI ≤0.90 (which is diagnostic of peripheral artery disease) in nonembolic stroke patients or transient ischemic attack and assessed the correlation of low ABI with stroke risk, factors, and recurrent vascular events and death.

Methods—

Patients ≥45 years with acute transient ischemic attack or minor ischemic strokes were recruited consecutively from over 17 low-income and middle-income countries (Latin America [1543 patients], Middle East [1041 patients], North Africa [834 patients], and South Africa [217 patients]). The ABI measurement was performed at a single visit. Stroke recurrence and risk of new vascular events were assessed after 24 months of follow-up.

Results—

Among 3487 enrolled patients, abnormal ABI (<0.9) was present in 22.3 %. Patients with an ABI of ≤0.9 were more likely (
P
<0.05) to be male, older, and have a history of peripheral artery disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. During 2-year follow-up, the rate of major cardiovascular event was higher in patients with ABI <0.9 than those with ABI ≥0.9 (Kaplan-Meier estimates, 22.5%; 95% CI, 19.6–25.8 versus 13.7%; 21.4–15.1;
P
<0.001), and when ABI was categorized into 4 groups (≤0.6; 95% CI, 0.6–0.9; 0.9–1; 1–1.4), the rate of major cardiovascular event was higher in those with ABI ≤0.6 than the other groups (Kaplan-Meier estimates, 32.6%; 95% CI, 21.0–48.3 for ABI≤0.6 versus 21.7%; 95% CI, 18.8–25.0 for ABI 0.6–0.9 versus 14.3%; 95% CI, 12.4–16.6 for ABI 0.9–1 versus 13.3%; 95% CI, 11.6–15.2 for ABI 1–1.4;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Among patients with nonembolic ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack, those with low ABI had a higher rate of vascular events and death in this population. Screening for ABI in stroke patients may help identify patients at high risk of future events.
Optimal Duration of Aspirin Plus Clopidogrel After Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Rahman Hammad , Khan Safi U. , Nasir Fahad , Hammad Tehseen , Meyer Michael A. , Kaluski Edo
Published: March 2019

Background and Purpose—

The role of aspirin plus clopidogrel (A+C) therapy compared with aspirin monotherapy in patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke (IS) or transient ischemic attack remains uncertain. We conducted this study to determine the optimal period of efficacy and safety of A+C compared with aspirin monotherapy.

Methods—

Ten randomized controlled trials (15 434 patients) were selected using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (inception June 2018) comparing A+C with aspirin monotherapy in patients with transient ischemic attack or IS. The primary efficacy outcome was recurrent IS, and the primary safety outcome was major bleeding. The secondary outcomes were major adverse cardiovascular events (composite of stroke, myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular mortality) and all-cause mortality. We stratified analysis based on the short- (≤1 month), intermediate- (≤3 month), and long-term (>3 month) A+C therapy. Effects were estimated as relative risk (RR) with 95% CI.

Results—

A+C significantly reduced the risk of recurrent IS at short-term (RR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.37–0.78) and intermediate-term (RR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.58–0.90) durations. Similarly, major adverse cardiovascular event was significantly reduced by short-term (RR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.60–0.78) and intermediate-term (RR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.61–0.94) A+C therapy. However, long-term A+C did not yield beneficial effect in terms of recurrent IS (RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.63–1.04) and major adverse cardiovascular events (RR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.71–1.07). Intermediate-term (RR, 2.58; 95% CI, 1.19–5.60) and long-term (RR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.36–2.56) A+C regimens significantly increased the risk of major bleeding as opposed to short-term A+C (RR, 1.82; 95% CI, 0.91–3.62). Excessive all-cause mortality was limited to long-term A+C (RR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.10–1.93).

Conclusions—

Short-term A+C is more effective and equally safe in comparison to aspirin alone in patients with acute IS or transient ischemic attack.
Effect of Enzyme Replacement Therapy on Basilar Artery Diameter in Male Patients With Fabry Disease
Authors: Miwa Kaori , Yagita Yoshiki , Sakaguchi Manabu , Kitagawa Kazuo , Sakai Norio , Mochizuki Hideki
Published: March 2019

Background and Purpose—

The effect of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) on cerebrovascular complications remains largely unexplored. We aimed to investigate the relationship between basilar artery (BA) diameter and long-term ERT in patients with Fabry disease.

Methods—

We obtained baseline magnetic resonance imaging data from 30 patients (40.5±16.3 years, male: 14) in the single institution; among them, 21 patients prospectively had follow-up magnetic resonance imaging assessments. The short axis of BA diameter was measured at the midpons level on axial T2-weighted images. Brain magnetic resonance imaging measurements included markers of cerebral small vessel disease (lacunas, white matter hyperintensities, and cerebral microbleeds). We assessed variables associated with baseline BA diameter and annual BA diameter change using linear regression analyses.

Results—

Hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and white matter hyperintensities correlated with the initial BA diameter. After a mean interval of 7.2±4.6 years, the annual BA diameter change correlated positively with severe white matter hyperintensities and inversely with the duration of ERT (β=−0.48,
P
=0.033). After stratifying patients by sex, a significant correlation between the duration of ERT and BA diameter was found only in men (β=−0.72,
P
=0.019).

Conclusions—

Our results show a possible relationship between ERT and changes in BA diameter. Future studies to elucidate the clinical impact of BA changes as a potential surrogate marker are needed.
Increased Serum Netrin-1 Is Associated With Improved Prognosis of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Guo Daoxia , Zhu Zhengbao , Zhong Chongke , Peng Hao , Wang Aili , Xu Tian , Peng Yanbo , Xu Tan , Chen Chung-Shiuan , Li Qunwei , Ju Zhong , Geng Deqin , Chen Jing , Zhang Yonghong , He Jiang
Published: March 2019

Background and Purpose—

Previous experimental studies suggested that serum netrin-1 was associated with the progression of ischemic stroke. Knowledge about netrin-1 among ischemic stroke patients may provide new ideas for the prognostic assessment of ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum netrin-1 and prognosis of ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Serum netrin-1 levels at baseline were measured for 3346 ischemic stroke patients from the CATIS (China Antihypertensive Trial in Acute Ischemic Stroke), and all patients were followed up at 3 months after stroke onset. The primary outcome was a combination of death and major disability (modified Rankin Scale score of ≥3) within 3 months after stroke onset.

Results—

Up to 3 months after stroke onset, 845 patients (25.25%) experienced death or major disability. After adjustment for baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score and other potential confounders, elevated serum netrin-1 was associated with a decreased risk of primary outcome (odds ratio, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.47–0.88;
P
trend
=0.002) when 2 extreme quartiles were compared. Each SD increase of log-transformed netrin-1 was associated with 17% (95% CI, 7%–26%) decreased risk of primary outcome. Multivariable-adjusted spline regression models showed a negative linear dose-response relationship between serum netrin-1 and the risk of primary outcome (
P
linearity
=0.003). Adding netrin-1 quartile to a model containing conventional risk factors improved risk prediction for primary outcome (net reclassification improvement index =14.74%;
P
=0.002; integrated discrimination improvement =0.40%;
P
=0.005).

Conclusions—

Elevated serum netrin-1 levels were associated with improved prognosis at 3 months after ischemic stroke, suggesting that serum netrin-1 may be a potential prognostic biomarker for ischemic stroke. Further studies from other samples of ischemic stroke patients are needed to replicate our findings and to clarify the potential mechanisms.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01840072.
Competitive Impacts of Means-Tested Vouchers on Public School Performance: Evidence from Louisiana
Authors: Egalite Anna J. , Mills Jonathan N.
Published: March 2019

Given the significant growth rate and geographic expansion of private school choice programs over the past two decades, it is important to examine how traditional public schools respond to the sudden injection of competition for students and resources. Although prior studies of this nature have been limited to Florida and Milwaukee, using multiple analytic strategies this paper examines the competitive impacts of the Louisiana Scholarship Program (LSP) to determine its achievement impacts on students in affected public schools. Serving 4,954 students in its first year of statewide expansion, this targeted school voucher program provides public funds for low-income students in low-performing public schools to enroll in participating private schools across the state of Louisiana. Using (1) a school fixed effects approach and (2) a regression discontinuity framework to examine the achievement impacts of the LSP on students in affected public schools, this competitive effects analysis reveals neutral to positive impacts that are small in magnitude. Policy implications are discussed.
Contributions to the taxonomy of the Irano-Turanian genus Rhabdosciadium (Apiaceae): Nomenclatural notes, carpology, molecular phylogeny and the description of a new species from Bitlis (Turkey)
Authors: FIRAT MEHMET , GÜZEL YELDA
Published: March 2019

A new Rhabdosciadium (Apiaceae) species, R. hizanense is described and illustrated from eastern Anatolia (Bitlis/Hizan). The new species has a distinct appearance with caespitose, low-growing habit and regularly pinnate, ovate-lobed leaves. It is most closely related to another recently described distinct Rhabdosciadium species, R. anatolyi, but differs from it by various features. Because R. anatolyi has been described based on a sample at the vegetative development stage, the holotype of the species has no flowers or fruits and the description of the species is incomplete. Hence, we designated a fully developed epitype for R. anatolyi. Comprehensive descriptions of both species are provided, including detailed photographs, geographical distribution maps, habitats and ecology, vernacular names, ethnobotanical usages, and IUCN conservation statuses. The phylogenetic position of the species within Rhabdosciadium, as well as within tribe Careae, was also studied based on nuclear-encoded ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) sequence analysis.
A broader circumscription of Bulbostylis including Nemum (Abildgaardieae: Cyperaceae)
Authors: ROALSON ERIC H. , PRATA ANA PAULA , MESTERHÁZY ATTILA , CHASE MARK W. , SIMPSON DAVID A. , THOMAS W. WAYT , LARRIDON ISABEL
Published: March 2019

Phylogenetic hypotheses and morphological characterizations of genera in the Abildgaardieae have suggested that current generic circumscriptions are not monophyletic. We here provide an updated phylogenetic hypothesis of the Abildgaardieae using nrDNA ITS sequences that continues to support the derivation of Nemum from within the Bulbostylis lineage. We make the nomenclatural combinations necessary to include Nemum in an expanded Bulbostylis, including seven new combinations and one new name. Further, we lectotypify two names and neotypify one.
A new species of Eomedina Mesnil (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Namibia
Authors: CERRETTI PIERFILIPPO , WYATT NIGEL
Published: March 2019

In this paper a blondeliine tachinid, Eomedina hamoyensis sp. nov., from Namibia is described, illustrated and compared with the only known congeneric species E. apicalis (Curran). The Afrotropical genus Eomedina has a blunt, scoop-like and well sclerotized ovipositor, and based on this derived structure appears to belong to the “Medina genus-group”. The new species is known only from several females and they differ from females of E. apicalis in lacking a pair of proclinate orbital setae and in having just one pair of reclinate upper orbital setae.
Ringanui, a new genus of stygobitic amphipod from New Zealand (Amphipoda: Gammaridea: Paraleptamphopidae)
Authors: FENWICK GRAHAM D.
Published: March 2019

A new genus is established for two new species of paraleptamphopid amphipods. Both species are stygobites inhabiting alluvial aquifers up to at least 18 m beneath the Canterbury Plains in New Zealand. First collected by Charles Chilton in 1882, these two species became confused with Paraleptamphopus subterraneus. The new genus, Ringanui, is a significant step in resolving this confusion. Ringanui differs from Paraleptamphopus on several characters and is most easily recognised by diverse gnathopods, the first of which is enlarged relative to gnathopod 2. The two species are described and illustrated in detail. They differ in size and gnathopod characteristics, but other differences are small. Ringanui koonuiroa is the smaller species and is most easily recognised by the single, very long robust seta defining the palm of gnathopod 1. The second species, R. toonuiiti, is the larger, but its palmar defining spine is relatively short. Both species occur together at the same locations and apparently in the same habitat.
Two new species of Pagurixus (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura: Paguridae) from submarine caves of the Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan
Authors: OSAWA MASAYUKI , FUJITA YOSHIHISA , OKUNO JUNJI
Published: March 2019

Two new species of Pagurixus Melin, 1939, P. pulcher and P. longipes, are described from the submarine caves of the Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan. These species belong to the different informal species group of the genus characterized by the presence or absence of two distinct, longitudinal rows or series of setae on the ventral surface of the antennular ultimate segment. Pagurixus pulcher is most closely allied to P. nomurai Komai & Asakura, 1995, but is differentiated by the more slender ocular peduncles, setation on the ultimate segment of the antennular peduncle, and shape of the anterior lobe of the sixth thoracic sternite. The extremely long and slender carpus of the left cheliped and dactyli of the ambulatory pereopods clearly distinguish P. longipes from other species belonging to the species group characterized by the absence of longitudinal rows or series of setae on the ventral surface of the antennular ultimate segment.
Akysis longifilis, a new species of catfish (Teleostei: Akysidae) from Myanmar
Authors: NG HEOK HEE
Published: March 2019

Akysis longifilis, new species, is described from the Sittang River drainage in Myanmar. It is a member of the A. variegatus species group and can be distinguished from congeners in the group (except for A. brachybarbatus, A. fuliginatus, A. pictus, A. prashadi, A. variegatus, A. varius and A. vespa) in having a smooth (vs. serrated) posterior edge of the pectoral spine. It is distinguished from A. brachybarbatus, A. fuliginatus, A. pictus, A. prashadi, A. variegatus, A. varius and A. vespa in having a unique combination of: length of adipose-fin base 25.7–31.1% SL, body depth at anus 9.7–13.6% SL, caudal peduncle length 18.3–23.2% SL, caudal peduncle depth 5.6–7.2% SL, head width 21.1–24.7% SL, nasal barbel length 67.4–96.4% HL, maxillary barbel length 123.2–159.6% HL, vertebrae 33–35, body with light saddle-shaped spots, and caudal fin forked.
Paradeontacylix godfreyi n. sp. (Digenea: Sanguinicolidae) from the heart of wild Seriola lalandi (Perciformes: Carangidae) in southern Australia
Authors: HUTSON KATE S. , WHITTINGTON IAN D.
Published: March 2019

Paradeontacylix godfreyi n. sp. (Digenea: Sanguinicolidae) is described from the heart of wild yellowtail kingfish, Seriola lalandi Valenciennes, 1833, collected near Port Augusta, northern Spencer Gulf, South Australia. One specimen of P. godfreyi was also collected from the heart of a single wild specimen of S. lalandi captured near Killarney, Victoria. Paradeontacylix godfreyi is distinguished from other species in the genus by a combination of morphological characters including the shape and number of posterior tegumental spines, the number of rows of tegumental spines along the ventral body margin, the maximum number of marginal tegumental spines per row, the number of testes and the extent of the testicular field. Comparisons are made with a Paradeontacylix sp. collected from the heart of wild Samson fish, S. hippos Günther, 1876 from Greenly Island, South Australia and from the heart of wild S. lalandi from Killarney, Victoria. We also document a new host record for P. sanguinicoloides McIntosh, 1934 from the heart of wild S. hippos from Greenly Island, South Australia. The importance of determining potential intermediate hosts for Paradeontacylix species in relation to South Australian S. lalandi aquaculture is discussed.
Revision of Tyroborus Oudemans, 1924 (Acari: Astigmata: Acaridae)
Authors: FAN QING-HAI , ZHANG ZHI-QIANG
Published: March 2019

Tyroborus Oudemans is revised with new characters discovered to confirm the validity of the genus. The relationships between Tyroborus, Tyrophagus and Tyrolichus are discussed. The type species of Tyroborus, T. lini Oudemans, is redescribed. Tyrophagus miripes Athias-Henriot is transferred to Tyroborus and redescribed. A new species, Tyroborus ueckermanni, is described from South Africa. A key to adults of the known species and data on habitats and distribution of each species are provided.
New records of the water mite genus Arrenurus from Iran, with the description of two new species from Iran and Cyprus (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Arrenuridae)
Authors: SMIT HARRY , PESIC VLADIMIR
Published: March 2019

Two new species are described, viz. Arrenurus minutus spec. nov. from Iran and A. cyprioticus spec. nov. from Cyprus and Iran. In addition, 13 species new for the fauna of Iran are reported.
A redescription of Neozavrelia cuneipennis (Edwards) comb. nov., with a checklist of Neozavrelia species of the world (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: EKREM TORBJØRN
Published: March 2019

The larva, pupa, and imago of Neozavrelia cuneipennis comb. nov., previously placed in Tanytarsus, Stempellina and Stempellinella, are described and diagnosed. Illustrations of all stages as well as a partial COI gene sequence are presented. Neozavrelia longappendiculata is listed as a new junior synonym of N. cuneipennis, and Zavrelia kibunensis is given a new combination and now placed in Neozavrelia. An annotated overview of the world’s valid Neozavrelia species is given.
The Coccinellidae (Coleoptera) of the Maritime Provinces of Canada: new records, biogeographic notes, and conservation concerns
Authors: MAJKA CHRISTOPHER G. , MCCORQUODALE DAVID B.
Published: March 2019

New records of Coccinellidae in the Maritime Provinces of Canada are reported. The known fauna of the region consists of 47 species: 41 in Nova Scotia, 39 in New Brunswick, and 21 in Prince Edward Island. Of these, records are provided for 13 species newly recorded from Nova Scotia and 14 from Prince Edward Island. Two species, Diomus amabilis (LeConte) and Naemia seriata seriata Melsheimer, are newly recorded in Canada. Didion punctatum (Melsheimer) is removed from the fauna of PEI, and Coccidula lepida LeConte is removed from the fauna of NS, and Scymnus impexus Mulsant is removed from the faunas of NS and NB. Records of two adventive species not established in the region are also reported. Collecting effort in the three provinces and their sub-regions is briefly analyzed and compared. Biogeographic observations are provided in relation to the composition of the fauna as a whole, and of disjunct populations of six Nova Scotia coccinellids, several of which appear to be members of a coastal plain fauna that extends from New England to southern Nova Scotia. The potential vulnerability of the coccinellid fauna is discussed in the context of both adventive species in the region, and habitat loss and conservation.
New species of Poecilosclerida (Demospongiae, Porifera) from the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, USA
Authors: LEHNERT HELMUT , STONE ROBERT , HEIMLER WOLFGANG
Published: March 2019

Five new species of poecilosclerid sponges, Artemisina amlia sp. nov., Coelosphaera oglalai sp. nov., Melonanchora globogilva sp. nov., Tedania kagalaskai sp. nov., and Mycale carlilei sp. nov, are described from the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, from depths ranging between 100–190m and are compared with congeners of the North Pacific Ocean.Keywords: Taxonomy, Porifera, Demospongiae, Poecilosclerida, new species, N-Pacific, Aleutian Islands, Alaska
A new Mexican species of Oxyporus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Oxyporinae)
Authors: MÁRQUEZ JUAN , ASIAIN JULIETA
Published: March 2019

Oxyporus bautistae Márquez & Asiain, sp. nov. is described based on three female specimens collected from mushrooms of the genus Boletus in an oak forest of Oaxaca, Mexico. The new species is similar to O. lawrencei Campbell, known from Distrito Federal, Guerrero, Jalisco, Mexico, Michoacan and Morelos, Mexico, and represents the eighth Mexican species of the genus.