bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ultimate Guide to Bacterial Swarming: An Experimental Model to Study the Evolution of Cooperative Behavior
Authors: Yan Jinyuan , Monaco Hilary , Xavier Joao B.
Published: June 2019

Cooperation has fascinated biologists since Darwin. How did cooperative behaviors evolve despite the fitness cost to the cooperator? Bacteria have cooperative behaviors that make excellent models to take on this age-old problem from both proximate (molecular) and ultimate (evolutionary) angles. We delve into Pseudomonas aeruginosa swarming, a phenomenon where billions of bacteria move cooperatively across distances of centimeters in a matter of a few hours. Experiments with swarming have unveiled a strategy called metabolic prudence that stabilizes cooperation, have showed the importance of spatial structure, and have revealed a regulatory network that integrates environmental stimuli and direct cooperative behavior, similar to a machine learning algorithm. The study of swarming elucidates more than proximate mechanisms: It exposes ultimate mechanisms valid to all scales, from cells in cancerous tumors to animals in large communities.
Response to Aflibercept Therapy in Three Types of Choroidal Neovascular Membrane in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Real-Life Evidence in the Czech Republic
Authors: Nemcansky Jan , Stepanov Alexandr , Koubek Michal , Veith Miroslav , Klimesova Yun Min , Studnicka Jan
Published: June 2019

Purpose. To present a cohort of treatment-naive patients with the neovascular form of age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated with aflibercept in a fixed regimen and evaluate the treatment response of three types of choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV)—occult (Type 1), classic (Type 2), and minimally classic (Type 4). Methods. This was a multicentre, prospective, observational consecutive case series study. Patients diagnosed with three types of CNV of nAMD were treated in a fixed regimen (3 injections every 4 weeks, and then injections at 8 week intervals). The follow-up period was 48 weeks. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) were measured using Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) charts and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). The measurements were taken at the baseline and then at 16, 32, and 48 weeks. Results. The treatment-naive group was composed of 135 eyes of 135 patients in the study. 61 eyes had Type 1 lesions of CNV, 50 eyes had Type 2 lesions, and 24 eyes had Type 4 lesions. Mean baseline BCVA ± SD for Type 1 lesions was 56.1 ± 10.8 ETDRS letters, and then 62.2 ± 12.9 letters, 61.2 ± 13.7 letters, and 62.8 ± 15.1 letters at 16, 32, and 48 weeks, respectively. Mean baseline CRT ± SD for Type 1 lesions was 442.4 ± 194.9 μm, and then 302.5 ± 144.4 μm, 299.7 ± 128.5 μm, and 277.7 ± 106.5 μm at 16, 32, and 48 weeks, respectively. Mean baseline BCVA ± SD for Type 2 lesions was 55.6 ± 9.9 ETDRS letters, and then 62.5 ± 11.1 letters, 60.7 ± 13.0 letters, and 62.5 ± 14.2 letters at 16, 32, and 48 weeks, respectively. Mean baseline CRT ± SD. For Type 4 lesions mean baseline BCVA ± SD was 56.7 ± 9.0 ETDRS letters, and then 59.1 ± 10.6 letters, 59.5 ± 11.4 letters, and 59.2 ± 12.6 letters at 16, 32, and 48 weeks respectively. Mean baseline CRT ± SD for Type 4 lesions was 492.1 ± 187.0 μm, and then 333.3 ± 137.5 μm, 354.4 ± 175.0 μm, and 326.7 ± 122.4 μm at 16, 32, and 48 weeks respectively. All these changes were statistically significant (p<0.005). Conclusions. The primary outcome of our study is that the treatment with aflibercept in nAMD patients led to statistically significant improvement in BCVA and to a decrease in CRT throughout the follow-up period in both occult and classic types of CNV. The minimally classic type of CNV demonstrated a poorer functional and anatomical response to treatment.
Genome Sequence of Colistin-Resistant Bacteremic Shewanella algae Carrying the Beta-Lactamase Gene blaOXA-55
Authors: Chen Ying-Ju , Tung Kwong-Chung , Hong Yu-Kai , Chen Shi-Yu , Huang Yao-Ting , Liu Po-Yu
Published: June 2019

Shewanella algae is an emerging pathogen widely distributed in aquatic environment. Bacteremia is a major manifestation of S. algae infections, and there are increasing reports of antibiotic-resistant strains. However, little is known about the genomic characteristics of human bacteremic S. algae. Here, we report the results of the whole-genome sequencing of colistin-resistant S. algae TYL, a blood isolate. Chromosome-encoded pmrC associated with colistin resistance and blaOXA-55 gene intrinsic to S. algae was identified. Continuous surveillance for the emergence of S. algae is needed.
Development of FRC Materials with Recycled Glass Fibers Recovered from Industrial GFRP-Acrylic Waste
Authors: Patel Kishan , Gupta Rishi , Garg Mohit , Wang Boyu , Dave Urmil
Published: June 2019

Fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) and engineered cementitious composite materials have demonstrated promising requisite in construction industry owing to its superior mechanical and durability properties. In this study, a sustainable approach was taken, i.e., to use industry waste as a reinforcement with improved interfacial bonding leading to enhanced mechanical performance of FRC. An efficient in situ recycling process allowed the authors to extract glass fibers from glass fiber-reinforced polymer acrylic waste. Concrete mixes with low fiber dosages including 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3% (by volume) of recycled as well as virgin glass fibers were prepared. The slump of concrete was maintained ∼150 mm by using high water-reducing admixture (HWRA). Notably, lower amount of HWRA was required for raw glass fibers vis-à-vis recycled ones due to its hydrophobic nature. Overall, FRC enclosing 0.3% recycled glass fiber demonstrated >20% enhancement in compressive, split tensile, and flexural strength as compared to control (after 28 days of curing), also supported by morphological analysis.
Towards a Better Knowledge of Natural Methane Releases in the French Alps: A Field Approach
Authors: Gal Frédérick , Proust Eric , Kloppmann Wolfram
Published: June 2019

We report investigations performed at some hydrocarbon gas seeps located in the French Subalpine Chains in zones of outcropping Jurassic black shales, increasing the reported number of such occurrences in this part of the Alps. We present the characteristics of each of the seeps, based on soil flux measurements and soil gas measurements. Gases emitted are CH4-rich (87–94%) with the exception of one site (78.5% CH4 + 8.2% CO2) where an active landslide may induce dilution by atmospheric air. CO2 is generally measured at low levels (<1.6%). Concentrations in C2H6 are more variable, from less than 1% to more than 2.3%. Gas is emitted over areas of various sizes. The smallest gas emission area measures only 60×20 cm, characterized by a strong hydrocarbon flux (release of about 100 kg of CH4 per year). At a second site, hydrocarbon emissions are measured over a surface of 12 m2. For this site, methane emission is evaluated at 235 kg per year and CO2 emission is 600 kg per year, 210 kg being related to gas seepage. At the third site, hydrocarbons are released over a 60 m2 area but strong gas venting is restricted to localized seeps. Methane emission is evaluated at 5.1 tons per year and CO2 emission at 1.58 tons per year, out of which 0.53 tons are attributed to gas seepage. Several historical locations remain uninvestigated at present, and numerous others may still be unknown. We outline strategies to search for such unrecorded sites. Considering the topography of the potential alpine and perialpine emission areas, the possibilities to detect gas emissions appear of the size recorded so far seem to be restricted to ground-based methods or to methods offering the possibility to point orthogonally to the soil towards the seep maximum. If such sites are to be investigated in the future in the frame of Environmental Baseline Assessment (EBA), even establishing appropriate monitoring protocols will be challenging.
Investigation of the Effects of Different Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Comonomers on the Volume Phase Transition Temperatures and Thermal Properties of N-Isopropylacrylamide-Based Hydrogels
Authors: Okudan Ahmet , Altay Abdullah
Published: June 2019

In this work, a series of thermally responsive terpolymers of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPA) with three different comonomer contents was synthesized, and their swelling behaviour was studied as a function of composition and temperature. Temperature-sensitive, random cross-linked terpolymers of NIPA were prepared from methyl methacrylate (MMA), N-tert-butylacrylamide (NTBA), and acrylic acid (AA) using a free radical polymerization method. In the synthesis of terpolymer hydrogels, N,N-methylene bisacrylamide (BIS) was used as cross-linkers and ammonium persulfate (APS) as initiator. The NIPA content of the monomer feed varied from 80 to 50 mol %, and other comonomer feed varied from 40 to 5 mol %. The swelling equilibrium of these hydrogels was studied as a function of temperature and hydrophobic and hydrophilic comonomer contents. The swelling properties of the polymers were investigated in pure water at temperatures from 10 to 80°C. All of the synthesized gels were found to be sensitive to temperature. Glass transition temperature analyses and thermal analyses of the synthesized hydrogels were studied. The volume phase transition temperature and the swelling equilibrium (r) values of NIPA-based hydrogels synthesized in different feed ratios and in varying monomer contents were found in the range of 17–52°C and 14–51 g H2O/g polymer, respectively. The glass temperature (Tg) of the NIPA/AA/(MMA or NTBA) hydrogels synthesized with feed ratios of 50/40/10 was found to be 133 or 142°C, respectively. The initial and the end degradation that were determined for hydrogels at high temperatures indicated the quite good thermal stability of hydrogels. When the mass loss of the synthesized hydrogels was 50%, the temperatures were measured between 247 and 258°C.
Propofol Induces Postoperative Depression and Inhibits Microglial Function in Mice
Authors: Song Feng , Lv Xiao , Meng Jing
Published: June 2019

Many patients experience excellent physical recoveries after surgery; however, there are some of them who from suffer mood fluctuation, even depression. Postoperative depression may be resulted from cognitive dysfunction, pain, and a compromised immune system during the surgery. But there is a higher possibility that general anaesthesia may be responsible for the development of depression. Here, we employed one of the most used anaesthetics, propofol, in a mouse model to investigate whether this intravenous anaesthetic compound could cause depressive-like behavioural performance in mice. We found a single dose of propofol caused significant abnormal behavioural performance in tail suspension, forced swimming, and open field tests. We also examined the brain section of these mice and revealed that there was significant reduced expression of the CD11b protein, which demonstrated an inhibition of propofol on microglial function. We investigated the effect of propofol on synaptic protein, SYP, and found there was no notable influence on the protein expression. These above results suggested that propofol treatment might promote the depressive-like behaviours in mice via influencing the microglial cell function. Furthermore, we found the level of the IL-6 cytokine was significantly increased in the brain tissue, which might subsequently cause the activation of the transcriptional factor, STAT3. Our finding may provide a new perspective of further understanding the mechanism of anaesthetic drugs and deciphering the underlying mechanism of postoperative depression.
Worsening of Oxidative Stress, DNA Damage, and Atherosclerotic Lesions in Aged LDLr-/- Mice after Consumption of Guarana Soft Drinks
Authors: Chisté Layla Aparecida , Pereira Beatriz Peters , Porto Marcella Leite , de Oliveira Jairo Pinto , de Assis Arícia Leone Evangelista Monteiro , Nogueira Breno Valentim , Meyrelles Silvana Santos , de Andrade Tadeu Uggere , Campos-Toimil Manuel , Vasquez Elisardo Corral , Campagnaro Bianca Prandi , Pereira Thiago Melo Costa
Published: June 2019

Background. Excessive consumption of soft drinks (SD) has become a health problem worldwide due to its association with related cardiovascular diseases. We investigated the possible impacts associated with the consumption of Brazilian guarana (normal and zero) SD in dyslipidemic mice, thus mitigating potential clinical confounders such as poor-quality diet, lifestyle, body composition, and/or comorbidities. Methods. Sixteen-month-old LDLr-/- mice were divided into the following groups: (1) control; (2) GSD: normal guarana SD; and (3) Z-GSD: zero guarana SD. All were fed ad libitum, and blood pressure was measured noninvasively. After 8 weeks, aorta, blood, liver, and stomach samples were collected for histological and biochemical analyses. Results. Guarana soft drinks increased atherosclerosis (~60%) and were associated with hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, oxidative stress, DNA fragmentation, and apoptosis (~2-fold) of blood cells, besides presenting an increase in liver and gastric damage even in normoglycemia. Interestingly, Z-GSD did not cause the aforementioned changes, except in hemodynamic and renal parameters. Conclusions. Chronic administration of GSD is prooxidative, compromising the cardiovascular, gastric, and hepatic systems; the effects are due at least in part to free sugar consumption but not to guarana extract per se.
Perceived Influence of Weather Conditions on Rheumatic Pain in Romania
Authors: Croitoru Adina-Eliza , Dogaru Gabriela , Man Titus Cristian , Mălăescu Simona , Motricală Marieta , Scripcă Andreea-Sabina
Published: June 2019

The main objective of this study was to analyze the perception of the influence of various weather conditions on patients with rheumatic pathology. A group of 394 patients, aged between 39 and 87 years and diagnosed with degenerative rheumatic diseases, were interviewed individually by using a questionnaire created specifically for this study. Further on, to assess the relationship between pain intensity and weather conditions, a frequency analysis based on Pearson’s correlation matrix was employed. The most important results are as follows: the great majority of the participants (more than 75%) believe that their rheumatic pain is definitely or to a great extent influenced by different weather conditions; most of the patients reported intensification of their pain with weather worsening, especially when cloudiness and humidity suddenly increase (83.8% and 82.0%, respectively), air temperature suddenly decreases (81.5%), and in fog or rain conditions (81.2%). In our research, alongside simple meteorological variables, we established that complex weather variables such as atmospheric fronts, in particular, the cold ones and winter anticyclonic conditions, greatly intensify the rheumatic pain, whereas summer anticyclonic conditions usually lead to a decrease in pain severity. In terms of relationships between pain intensity and weather conditions, we found the strongest correlations (ranging between 0.725 and 0.830) when temperature, relative humidity, and cloudiness are constantly high.
Intraocular Pressure and Anterior Segment Morphometry Changes after Uneventful Phacoemulsification in Type 2 Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients
Authors: Beato João N. , Reis David , Esteves-Leandro João , Falcão Manuel , Rosas Vítor , Carneiro Ângela , Falcão Reis Fernando
Published: June 2019

Purpose. To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) and anterior segment (AS) morphometry changes after uneventful phacoemulsification between nonglaucomatous eyes with open-angles from patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and determine which factors may predict greater IOP-lowering effect. Methods. Forty-five diabetic (45 eyes) and 44 (44 eyes) age- and sex-matched non-DM patients with age-related cataract were enrolled in this prospective observational study. Goldmann applanation tonometry and AS Scheimpflug tomography (Pentacam® HR) were performed preoperatively and at 1- and 6-month follow-up. Linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate the clinical variables related to postoperative IOP changes at 6 months. Results. There was a significant postoperative IOP reduction 6 months after surgery (p<0.001) by an average of 2.9 ± 2.9 mmHg (15.5%) and 2.4 ± 2.8 mmHg (13.0%) in the DM group and non-DM groups (p=0.410), respectively. All AS parameters (anterior chamber depth, volume, and angle) increased significantly postoperatively (p<0.001). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that higher preoperative IOP was significantly associated with IOP reduction at 6-month follow-up (p<0.05). Conclusion. Nonglaucomatous eyes with open-angles from both type 2 diabetic and nondiabetic patients experienced similar AS changes and IOP reductions following uneventful phacoemulsification, and this IOP-lowering effect was strongly correlated with preoperative IOP.
Longer Breastfeeding Associated with Childhood Anemia in Rural South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Buck Sean , Rolnick Kevin , Nwaba Amanda A. , Eickhoff Jens , Mezu-Nnabue Kelechi , Esenwah Emma , Mezu-Ndubuisi Olachi J.
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Child mortality rate in sub-Saharan Africa is 29 times higher than that in industrialized countries. Anemia is one of the preventable causes of child morbidity. During a humanitarian medical mission in rural South-Eastern Nigeria, the prevalence and risk factors of anemia were determined in the region in order to identify strategies for reduction.Methods. A cross-sectional study was done on 96 children aged 1-7 years from 50 randomly selected families. A study questionnaire was used to collect information regarding socioeconomic status, family health practices, and nutrition. Anemia was diagnosed clinically or by point of care testing of hemoglobin (Hb) levels.Results. 96 children were selected for the study; 90 completed surveys were analyzed (43% male and 57% females). Anemia was the most prevalent clinical morbidity (69%), followed by intestinal worm infection (53%) and malnutrition (29%). Mean age (months) at which breastfeeding was stopped was 11.8 (±2.2) in children with Hb <11mg/dl (severe anemia), 10.5±2.8 in those with Hb = 11-11.9mg/dl (mild-moderate anemia), and 9.4±3.9 in children with Hb >12mg/dl (no anemia) (P=0.0445).Conclusions. The longer the infant was breastfed, the worse the severity of childhood anemia was. Childhood anemia was likely influenced by the low iron content of breast milk in addition to maternal anemia and poor nutrition. A family-centered preventive intervention for both maternal and infant nutrition may be more effective in reducing childhood anemia and child mortality rate in the community.
Risk Factors and Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Second-Generation Drug-Eluting Stent Thrombosis
Authors: Kuramitsu Shoichi , Ohya Masanobu , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Otake Hiromasa , Horie Kazunori , Kawamoto Hiroyoshi , Yamanaka Futoshi , Natsuaki Masahiro , Shiomi Hiroki , Nakazawa Gaku , Ando Kenji , Kadota Kazushige , Saito Shigeru , Kimura Takeshi ,   on behalf of the REAL-ST Investigators
Published: June 2019

Background:

The risk factors and long-term clinical outcomes of patients with definite stent thrombosis (ST) after second-generation drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation have not yet been adequately assessed.

Methods and Results:

The REAL-ST (Retrospective Multicenter Registry of ST After First- and Second-Generation DES Implantation) included 313 definite ST of second-generation DES (early ST, n=179; late ST, n=66; very late ST, n=68). Four patients without definite ST of second-generation DES were identified as control patients for each ST case. Risk factors of definite ST were mostly different according to the timing of ST: ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, non–ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, and unstable angina at presentation, current smoking, left ventricular ejection fraction <40%, prior percutaneous coronary intervention, stent overlap, severely calcified lesion, left main coronary artery lesion, proximal left anterior descending lesion, postdiameter stenosis ≥20%, for early ST; age <70 years, ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction at presentation, hemodialysis, left ventricular ejection fraction <40%, in-stent restenosis, and severely calcified lesion for late ST; and proximal left anterior descending lesion and in-stent restenosis for very late ST. Cumulative 4-year incidence of death after the index ST events was significantly higher in the ST patients than control patients (33.0% versus 12.3%,
P
<0.001 for early ST versus control; 30.6% versus 14.2%,
P
<0.001 for late ST versus control; and 28.0% versus 13.0%,
P
<0.001 for very late ST versus control, respectively).

Conclusions:

Risk factors of definite ST after second-generation DES implantation were mostly different according to the timing of ST. Definite ST patients showed unfavorable long-term clinical outcomes compared with those without definite ST.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.umin.ac.jp
. Unique identifier: UMIN000025181.
Antiplatelet Therapy After Noncardioembolic Stroke
Authors: Greving Jacoba P. , Diener Hans-Christoph , Reitsma Johannes B. , Bath Philip M. , Csiba László , Hacke Werner , Kappelle L. Jaap , Koudstaal Peter J. , Leys Didier , Mas Jean-Louis , Sacco Ralph L. , Algra Ale ,   for the Cerebrovascular Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaborative Group
Published: June 2019

Background and Purpose—

We assessed the efficacy and safety of antiplatelet agents after noncardioembolic stroke or transient ischemic attack and examined how these vary according to patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods—

We did a network meta-analysis (NMA) of data from 6 randomized trials of the effects of commonly prescribed antiplatelet agents in the long-term (≥3 months) secondary prevention of noncardioembolic stroke or transient ischemic attack. Individual patient data from 43 112 patients were pooled and reanalyzed. Main outcomes were serious vascular events (nonfatal stroke, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or vascular death), major bleeding, and net clinical benefit (serious vascular event or major bleeding). Subgroup analyses were done according to age, sex, ethnicity, hypertension, qualifying diagnosis, type of vessel involved (large versus small vessel disease), and time from qualifying event to randomization.

Results—

Aspirin/dipyridamole combination (RR
NMA-adj
, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74–0.94) significantly reduced the risk of vascular events compared with aspirin, as did clopidogrel (RR
NMA-adj
, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.78–0.98), and aspirin/clopidogrel combination (RR
NMA-adj
, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.71–0.96). Clopidogrel caused significantly less major bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage than aspirin, aspirin/dipyridamole combination, and aspirin/clopidogrel combination. Aspirin/clopidogrel combination caused significantly more major bleeding than aspirin, aspirin/dipyridamole combination, and clopidogrel. Net clinical benefit was similar for clopidogrel and aspirin/dipyridamole combination (RR
NMA-adj
, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.93–1.05). Subgroup analyses showed no heterogeneity of treatment effectiveness across prespecified subgroups. The excess risk of major bleeding associated with aspirin/clopidogrel combination compared with clopidogrel alone was higher in patients aged <65 years than it was in patients ≥65 years (RR
NMA-adj
, 3.9 versus 1.7).

Conclusions—

Results favor clopidogrel and aspirin/dipyridamole combination for long-term secondary prevention after noncardioembolic stroke or transient ischemic attack, regardless of patient characteristics. Aspirin/clopidogrel combination was associated with a significantly higher risk of major bleeding compared with other antiplatelet regimens.
Timing between Cortical Slow Oscillations and Heart Rate Bursts during Sleep Predicts Temporal Processing Speed, but Not Offline Consolidation
Authors: Naji Mohsen , Krishnan Giri P. , McDevitt Elizabeth A. , Bazhenov Maxim , Mednick Sara C.
Published: June 2019

Central and autonomic nervous system activities are coupled during sleep. Cortical slow oscillations (SOs; <1 Hz) coincide with brief bursts in heart rate (HR), but the functional consequence of this coupling in cognition remains elusive. We measured SO–HR temporal coupling (i.e., the peak-to-peak interval between downstate of SO event and HR burst) during a daytime nap and asked whether this SO–HR timing measure was associated with temporal processing speed and learning on a texture discrimination task by testing participants before and after a nap. The coherence of SO–HR events during sleep strongly correlated with an individual's temporal processing speed in the morning and evening test sessions, but not with their change in performance after the nap (i.e., consolidation). We confirmed this result in two additional experimental visits and also discovered that this association was visit-specific, indicating a state (not trait) marker. Thus, we introduce a novel physiological index that may be a useful marker of state-dependent processing speed of an individual.
Description of a new species of Paraxenylla (Collembola, Hypogastruridae) from Brazil, with comments on the genus
Authors: QUEIROZ GABRIEL C. , DEHARVENG LOUIS
Published: June 2019

The genus Paraxenylla Murphy, 1965 is redefined and compared to Xenylla Tullberg, 1869 and Thibaudylla Najt & Weiner, 1997, its closest relatives. It is characterized by the differentiation of four thickened S-chaetae on the fourth antennal segment, modified mouthparts, the absence of empodial appendage, the presence of 5+5 eyes, the absence of anal spines and the anus in terminal position. P. sooretamensis sp. nov. is described, characterized by a reduced labial chaetotaxy, modified mouthparts, 6 axial chaetae on Th II–III and Abd IV, 4+4 chaetae on ventral tube and several other morphological features. Its chaetotaxy is very different from that of other Paraxenylla except P. arenosa Uchida & Tamura, 1967, resembling that of Xenylla or Thibaudylla. The new species was collected in forest litter about 40 km inland from the coast line of Espírito Santo, Brazil, while all other species of the genus live in littoral habitats. The three species Xenylla longicauda Folsom, 1898, X. occidentalis Womersley, 1933 and X. littoralis Womersley, 1933, that Palacios and Janssens (2006) considered to probably belong to Paraxenylla, do not fit the current definition of this genus (anal spines are present), and are either Xenylla or Thibaudylla. A key and a table of the 9 species of Paraxenylla are given.
A review of the genus Forficuloecus Conci (Phthiraptera: Philopteridae) from parrots (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae), with descriptions of four new species
Authors: PRICE ROGER D. , JOHNSON KEVIN P. , PALMA RICARDO L.
Published: June 2019

Ten species, including four new species, of the chewing louse genus Forficuloecus Conci, 1941, are recognized from Australasian parrots, and a key is given for their identification. The new species and their type hosts are: F. cameroni ex the Red-winged Parrot, Aprosmictus erythropterus (J.F. Gmelin, 1788); F. banksi ex the Mulga Parrot, Psephotus varius Clark, 1910; F. wilsoni ex the Northern Rosella, Platycercus venustus (Kuhl, 1820); and F. josephi ex the Bourke's Parrot, Neopsephotus bourkii (Gould, 1841). Partial sequences of the mitochondrial COI gene support the genetic distinctiveness of these new species.
Periclimenes sulcatus sp. nov., a new pontoniine shrimp (Crustacea: Decapoda: Palaemonidae) from Vietnam
Authors: ĎURIŠ ZDENĚK , HORKÁ IVONA , MARIN IVAN
Published: June 2019

We describe and illustrate a new species of pontoniine shrimp, Periclimenes sulcatus. This new species is unique among the shallow water Periclimenes species in having multiple dorsal telson spines, from four to six pairs. A relatively large and swollen faceted accessory pigment spot on the eyestalk, a subtriangular process on the fourth thoracic sternite, and a feebly developed second pair of chelipeds, only slightly larger than the first pair, are among other remarkable characteristics of this new species. The new species was collected in southeastern Vietnam, the South China Sea, in shallows at low tide. It densely inhabits seagrass meadows, but also occurs on other substrata down to 4 m.
"Dalyellioida" (Platyhelminthes, Rhabdocoela) from the Río de la Plata estuary in Argentina, with the description of two new species of Gieysztoria
Authors: BRUSA FRANCISCO , DAMBORENEA CRISTINA , NOREÑA CAROLINA
Published: June 2019

Two new species of Gieysztoria are described, along with the first record of two species of this genus in Argentina. Gieysztoria atalaya n. sp. has a sclerotic stylet with a window on one of its sides and a belt bearing three types of spines. One hollow spine, originated under the window, is basally broad and tapers towards its blunt distal end. This spine separates the other two groups of spines, one of approximately ten thick spines situated on the edge of the belt, and the other arranged in several rows. The proximal row bears approximately 10 triangular spines, broad at the base and rapidly tapering. Gieysztoria matilde n. sp. has a sclerotic stylet with a belt formed by a fibrous framework and a circular window. A central projection arising under this window bears a large blade-shaped hollow spine. This spine separates two major groups of thin spines, one formed by several parallel rows of hollow, acicular, very thin spines, the other comprising hollow and slightly thicker spines with broader base, arranged in several irregular rows. Gieysztoria evelinae (Marcus 1946) Luther 1955, Gieysztoria hymanae (Marcus 1946) Luther 1955 and Gieysztoria falx Brusa, Damborenea and Noreña 2003 are reported for the second time after their original description. Nygulus evelinae Marcus 1954 is cited for the first time for Argentina; until now, this species was known only for the estuary of Itanhaen River in Bahia de Santos, Brazil.
Changes in Frequency of Large Precipitation Accumulations over Land in a Warming Climate from the CESM Large Ensemble: The Roles of Moisture, Circulation, and Duration
Authors: Norris Jesse , Chen Gang , Neelin J. David
Published: June 2019

Projected changes in the frequency of major precipitation accumulations (hundreds of millimeters), integrated over rainfall events, over land in the late twenty-first century are analyzed in the Community Earth System Model (CESM) Large Ensemble, based on the RCP8.5 scenario. Accumulation sizes are sorted by the local average recurrence interval (ARI), ranging from 0.1 to 100 years, for the current and projected late-twenty-first-century climates separately. For all ARIs, the frequency of exceedance of the given accumulation size increases in the future climate almost everywhere, especially for the largest accumulations, with the 100-yr accumulation becoming about 3 times more frequent, averaged over the global land area. The moisture budget allows the impacts of individual factors—moisture, circulation, and event duration—to be isolated. In the tropics, both moisture and circulation cause large future increases, enhancing the 100-yr accumulation by 23% and 13% (average over tropical land), and are individually responsible for making the current-climate 100-yr accumulation 2.7 times and 1.8 times more frequent, but effects of shorter durations slightly offset these effects. In the midlatitudes, large accumulations become about 5% longer in duration, but are predominantly controlled by enhanced moisture, with the 100-yr accumulation (land average) becoming 2.4 times more frequent, and 2.2 times more frequent due to moisture increases alone. In some monsoon-affected regions, the 100-yr accumulation becomes more than 5 times as frequent, where circulation changes are the most impactful factor. These projections indicate that changing duration of events is a relatively minor effect on changing accumulations, their future enhancement being dominated by enhanced intensity (the combination of moisture and circulation).
A systematic review of factors that influence the efficacy of cognitive remediation therapy in schizophrenia
Authors: Reser Maree P , Slikboer Reneta , Rossell Susan L
Published: June 2019

Objective:

Cognitive remediation therapy is a moderately effective intervention for ameliorating cognitive deficits in individuals with schizophrenia-related disorders. With reports of considerable variability in individual response to cognitive remediation therapy, we need to better understand factors that influence cognitive remediation therapy efficacy to realise its potential. A systematic review was conducted to identify and evaluate predictors of cognitive outcome.

Methods:

An electronic database search was conducted identifying peer-reviewed articles examining predictors of cognitive response to cognitive remediation therapy.

Results:

A total of 40 articles accounting for 1681 cognitive remediation therapy participants were included; 81 distinct predictors of cognitive response were identified. Data synthesis and discussion focused on 20 predictors examined a minimum three times in different studies. Few of the examined predictors of cognitive outcome following cognitive remediation therapy were significant when examined through systematic review. A strong trend was found for baseline cognition, with reasoning and problem solving and working memory being strongly predictive of within-domain improvement. Training task progress was the most notable cross-domain predictor of cognitive outcome.

Conclusion:

It remains unclear why a large proportion of participants fail to realise cognitive benefit from cognitive remediation therapy. However, when considering only those variables where a majority of articles reported a statistically significant association with cognitive response to cognitive remediation therapy, three stand out: premorbid IQ, baseline cognition and training task progress. Each of these relates in some way to an individual’s capacity or potential for change. There is a need to consolidate investigation of potential predictors of response to cognitive remediation therapy, strengthening the evidence base through replication and collaboration.
Nepal – exploited by older married man – young unmarried mother accused of infanticide
Authors: Atreya Alok , Shrestha Milan , Acharya Jenash , Gurung Sharmila
Published: June 2019

In Nepal, it is considered sinful for a woman to have sexual intercourse before marriage while the male is exonerated. The female will be branded a loose character outcast by family and society. Only a small percentage of women who feel the other way and stand mentally strong or who have family support come out to seek justice. Despite the stringent law, the loopholes in the justice mechanism re-victimise female victims. We report a case where a young unmarried pregnant woman who gave birth alone was charged with infanticide.
Evaluating the Scope and Theoretical Mechanisms of Person-Centered Social Support: The Case of the Comforting Computer Program
Authors: Rains Stephen A. , Pavlich Corey A. , Tsetsi Eric , Akers Chelsie
Published: June 2019

Although the utility of verbal person-centeredness (VPC) as a feature of social support messages has been demonstrated in numerous studies, questions remain about the scope and theoretical mechanisms that explain VPC effects. Two experiments were conducted to evaluate whether the salutary effects of VPC extend to generic VPC messages and to explore the role of validation as a theoretical mechanism. Participants discussed a personal problem with a fictional computer program named “ListenerBot” that provided standardized responses containing high or low levels of VPC. Participants who received high VPC feedback from ListenerBot experienced a greater reduction in emotional distress than participants who received low VPC feedback. Path models consistently showed that high VPC feedback validated participants’ feelings, which led them to reappraise their situation and ultimately reduced their emotional distress. VPC, however, did not impact participants’ discussion of their thoughts and emotions.
Artificial neural network optimizes self-examination of osteoporosis risk in women
Authors: Meng Jia , Sun Ning , Chen Yali , Li Zhangming , Cui Xiaomeng , Fan Jingxue , Cao Hailing , Zheng Wangping , Jin Qiying , Jiang Lihong , Zhu Wenliang
Published: June 2019

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the application of an artificial neural network (ANN) in optimizing the Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA) score.

Methods

OSTA score was calculated for each female participant that underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry examination in two hospitals (one in each of two Chinese cities, Harbin and Ningbo). An ANN model was built using age and weight as input and femoral neck T-score as output. Osteoporosis risk screening by joint application of ANN and OSTA score was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

Nearly 90% of women with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-determined femoral neck osteoporosis were ≥60 years old. The ANN with age and weight as input and OSTA score both identified osteoporosis, with respective accuracy rates of 78.8% and 78.3%. However, both methods failed to identify osteoporosis in women < 60 years old. Compared with OSTA score alone, combined use of the two tools increased the rate of osteoporosis recognition among women > 80 years old.

Conclusions

OSTA score-mediated osteoporosis risk screening should be restricted to women ≥60 years old. Joint application of ANN and OSTA improved osteoporosis risk screening among Chinese women > 80 years old.
Sad music depresses sad adolescents: A listener’s profile
Authors: ter Bogt Tom , Canale Natale , Lenzi Michela , Vieno Alessio , van den Eijnden Regina
Published: June 2019

This research explored both social context and personal characteristics in relation to being saddened by sad music when in a sad mood. Overall, 1686 respondents (aged 12–16 years; 44% female; 68% vocational training) answered questions about their background, social context (family climate, bullying issues), personal characteristics (depressive mood, self-esteem, social comparison style), and the degree to which they were saddened by listening to sad music. About 17% of the participants reported saddened mood as a consequence of listening to sad music when sad. Multivariate linear regression results revealed that female respondents and those who reported elevated levels of depressive mood and negative social comparison to peers were more likely to feel saddened. These young people further showed strained peer relations, as indicated by being bullied on social network sites and the Internet. Harsh family climate and low self-esteem correlated with the saddened mood-inducing effect of sad music, although they were not significant in multivariate analysis. This pattern of person and context relations with saddened mood was identical for girls and boys. Adolescents generally seek music that is mood-congruent; however, this research questioned whether adolescents with problems should dwell on music that reflects their unhappy state, as this may worsen their mood.
An investigation on the instability of a flexible liquid-filled rotor
Authors: Wang Guangding , Yuan Huiqun , Sun Hongyun
Published: June 2019

In this paper, the stability of a flexible rotor partially filled with liquid is investigated. On the basis of the Navier-Stokes equations for the incompressible flow, a two-dimensional analytical model is developed for fluid motion. Applying the perturbation method, the linearized Navier-Stokes and continuity equations of fluid particles are obtained. Using the boundary conditions of fluid motion, the fluid forces exerted on the rotor are calculated. According to the established fluid-structure coupling model of the rotor system, the whirling frequency equation, which is applied to determine the stability of the system, is derived. The analysis results of the system stability are compared with the theoretical ones reported in the previous study. Good agreement is shown between the results of the present analysis and the literature results. The influences of the main parameters on the dynamic stability of the rotor system are discussed.
Variation in the μ-Opioid Receptor Gene (OPRM1) Does Not Moderate Social-Rejection Sensitivity in Humans
Authors: Persson Emil , Asutay Erkin , Heilig Markus , Löfberg Andreas , Pedersen Nancy , Västfjäll Daniel , Tinghög Gustav
Published: June 2019

Given previous findings from animal studies and small-scale studies in humans, variation in the μ-opioid receptor gene ( OPRM1) has been proposed as a strong biological candidate for moderating sensitivity to social rejection. Using a substantially larger sample ( N = 490) than previous studies, a prospective genotyping strategy, and preregistered analysis plans, we tested the hypotheses that OPRM1 variation measured by the functional A118G polymorphism (rs1799971) moderates (a) dispositional sensitivity to rejection and feelings of distress following social exclusion and (b) decision making involving social cognition. In three experimental tasks commonly used to assess altruism, reciprocity, and trust in humans, we found no evidence in favor of the hypotheses; nine main tests were preregistered, and all of them yielded small and statistically insignificant estimates. In secondary analyses, we used Bayesian inference and estimation to quantify support for our findings. Taken together, our results strongly suggest that the link between OPRM1 A118G variation and social-rejection sensitivity is weaker than previously thought.
A method to increase the dynamic deformation of a dielectric elastomer minimum energy structures rotary joint without increase of the voltage amplitude
Authors: Wang Shu , Huang Bo , McCoul David , Wang Xinbo , Zhao Jianwen
Published: June 2019

The traditional method to increase the dynamic deformation of a dielectric elastomer actuator is to increase the voltage applied on the dielectric elastomer. Based on the characteristics of dielectric elastomer minimum energy structures, a method to increase the deformation is proposed, which does not increase the applied voltage amplitude. We found that the frequency and duty cycle of the applied voltage will influence the range of deformation strongly, and the moment the power is switched off, [Formula: see text] is a key factor to the deformation range; therefore, the frequency and duty cycle can be optimized to obtain the largest deformation range with an expected vibrational frequency. Two groups of experiments were compared to validate this optimization principle, and the range of deformation with optimized parameters was found to be 1.67 times larger on average than with normal parameters.
Ipsilateral Hypertrophy of the Mastoid Process in Surgical Cases of Congenital Muscular Torticollis
Authors: Kim Hyun Gi , Yim Shin-Young
Published: June 2019

Objective:

This study was to investigate ipsilateral hypertrophy of the mastoid process in the patients with congenital muscular torticollis (CMT).

Design:

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

Patients:

Children with CMT.

Methods:

A total of 212 surgical cases of patients with CMT (age: 50.9 ± 44.3 months) and 212 age- and gender-matched controls (age: 50.4 ± 44.2 months) were included. The mastoid process volume was calculated and compared for both groups on the computed tomography axial images. A linear regression analysis was performed between the age and the intrasubject volume difference in the mastoid process.

Results:

The volume of the mastoid process in the CMT side was significantly larger than that of the non-CMT side in the CMT group (32.2 ± 30.3 cm3 vs 21.9 ± 22.8 cm3; P < .001). In the control group, there was no significant difference between the volume of the right and left mastoid process (21.6 ± 24.6 cm3 vs 21.2 ± 23.8 cm3; P = .472). The intrasubject volume difference in the mastoid process in the CMT group showed a linear increase with the age (adjusted R 2 = 0.286; P < .001), and the volumetric asymmetry of the mastoid process became more severe over age compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

We showed ipsilateral hypertrophy of the mastoid process in patients with CMT and demonstrated that the volumetric asymmetry increased with age.
Reconstruction of Nasal Defects With Dermal Skin Substitutes—A Retrospective Study of 36 Defects
Authors: Moratin Katharina , Koch Philipp-Sebastian , Benecke Johannes , Orouji Azadeh , Bauer Corinne , Faulhaber Jörg , Koenen Wolfgang , Felcht Moritz
Published: June 2019

Objectives:

It is uncertain whether dermal regeneration templates (DRTs) are helpful to reconstruct nasal defects. The aim of this study was to assess whether the aesthetic subunits determine the outcome.

Methods:

In this unicentric, retrospective study, the surgical procedures and outcomes of patients who received DRTs to reconstruct nasal defects were assessed and compared with the involved aesthetic subunits.

Results:

DRTs were used for reconstruction of 36 nasal defects in 35 patients with involvement of 76 aesthetic subunits: nasal sidewall (n = 21), nasal ala (n = 13), nasal tip/columella (n = 12, n = 1, respectively), nasal dorsum (n = 12), and extranasal aesthetic areas (n = 17). Fifty-eight nasal and 8 extranasal aesthetic subunits were reconstructed with DRTs, 10 subunits with a flap. Twenty-nine of 36 defects healed without any complications (80.5%). All reconstructed nasal tips/columella and the nasal dorsa healed without any complications. Region-specific complications were retraction of the ala rim (4/12; 33.3% of the patients with involvement of the nasal ala) and the formation of a fistula in the nasal sidewall (1/21; 4.8%). Region-specific complications of extranasal subunits were the development of an ectropium (2/3; 66.7% of the patients with involvement of the lower lid).

Conclusions:

DRTs can be helpful to reconstruct nasal defects. However, if the defect involves the aesthetic subunits nasal ala or the infraorbital region, different techniques should be preferred.
A shared realities workflow for interactive design using virtual reality and three-dimensional depth sensing
Authors: Krietemeyer Bess , Bartosh Amber , Covington Lorne
Published: June 2019

This article presents the ongoing development and testing of a “shared realities” computational workflow to support iterative user-centered design with an interactive system. The broader aim is to address the challenges associated with observing and recording user interactions within the context of use for improving the performance of an interactive system. A museum installation is used as an initial test bed to validate the following hypothesis: by integrating three-dimensional depth sensing and virtual reality for interaction design and user behavior observations, the shared realities workflow provides an iterative feedback loop that allows for remote observations and recordings for faster and effective decision-making. The methods presented focus on the software development for gestural interaction and user point cloud observations, as well as the integration of virtual reality tools for iterative design of the interface and system performance assessment. Experimental testing demonstrates viability of the shared realities workflow for observing and recording user interaction behaviors and evaluating system performance. Contributions to computational design, technical challenges, and ethical considerations are discussed, as well as directions for future work.