bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Compound Structure for Wind Speed Forecasting Using MKLSSVM with Feature Selection and Parameter Optimization
Authors: Sun Sizhou , Fu Jingqi , Zhu Feng , Xiong Nan
Published: November 2018

The aims of this study contribute to a new hybrid model by combining ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) with multikernel function least square support vector machine (MKLSSVM) optimized by hybrid gravitation search algorithm (HGSA) for short-term wind speed prediction. In the forecasting process, EEMD is adopted to make the original wind speed data decomposed into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) and one residual firstly. Then, partial autocorrelation function (PACF) is applied to identify the correlation between the corresponding decomposed components. Subsequently, the MKLSSVM using multikernel function of radial basis function (RBF) and polynomial (Poly) kernel function by weight coefficient is exploited as core forecasting engine to make the short-term wind speed prediction. To improve the regression performance, the binary-value GSA (BGSA) in HGSA is utilized as feature selection approach to remove the ineffective candidates and reconstruct the most relevant feature input-matrix for the forecasting engine, while real-value GSA (RGSA) makes the parameter combination optimization of MKLSSVM model. In the end, these respective decomposed subseries forecasting results are combined into the final forecasting values by aggregate calculation. Numerical results and comparable analysis illustrate the excellent performance of the EEMD-HGSA-MKLSSVM model when applied in the short-term wind speed forecasting.
A Study on Effectiveness Evaluation for the Physical Protection System of a High Security Prison Based on the Cloud Model
Authors: Yin Ke
Published: November 2018

In order to improve the effectiveness and accuracy of effectiveness evaluation for the physical protection system of a high security prison, this paper analyzed factors affecting the evaluation of such a system and, on this basis, applied the cloud theory and constructed a cloud model for evaluating the effectiveness of such a system. A case study was used to discuss the risk controllability of such a system with the evaluation method based on the cloud model. The research results show that the cloud model that we constructed for effectiveness evaluation can greatly reduce the influence of subjective factors in the risk evaluation for the physical protection system of a high security prison through the setting, calculation, and analysis of relevant parameters and we found that it is more accurate and practically useful especially when it is used in the evaluation together with the fuzziness and randomness of qualitative linguistic concepts.
Optimization of the Vibrational Comfort of Passenger Vehicles through Improvement of Suspension and Engine Rubber Mounting Setups
Authors: Mrad Felipe L. , Machado Duarte M. L. , Horta Gutierrez J.C. , Sad Almeida U.
Published: November 2018

The aim of this work is to develop a measurement methodology to perform a vibration analysis of a vehicle. It proposes new setups in the suspension systems, including springs, shock absorbers, and rubber mountings of the engine system, to improve the passengers’ comfort levels. The influence of each of these modifications in the vibration levels at specific points is analyzed. The importance of human interaction analysis is clear as, in the past, it was frequently left aside. This is because only the vehicle dynamic behavior is generally emphasized in the vehicles designed. Therefore, this work stresses that concerns about human vibration levels result in vehicles with good performance also in comfort levels, focusing on the users’ well‐being. A combination of different sets of rubber mountings, springs, and shock absorbers are tested. The changes proposed in this paper are analyzed in sequence and, based on the results, the best combination is proposed.
PARP1 Trapping by PARP Inhibitors Drives Cytotoxicity in Both Cancer Cells and Healthy Bone Marrow
Authors: Hopkins Todd A. , Ainsworth William B. , Ellis Paul A. , Donawho Cherrie K. , DiGiammarino Enrico L. , Panchal Sanjay C. , Abraham Vivek C. , Algire Mikkel A. , Shi Yan , Olson Amanda M. , Johnson Eric F. , Wilsbacher Julie L. , Maag David
Published: November 2018

PARP inhibitors have recently been approved as monotherapies for the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer and metastatic BRCA-associated breast cancer, and ongoing studies are exploring additional indications and combinations with other agents. PARP inhibitors trap PARP onto damaged chromatin when combined with temozolomide and methyl methanesulfonate, but the clinical relevance of these findings remains unknown. PARP trapping has thus far been undetectable in cancer cells treated with PARP inhibitors alone. Here, we evaluate the contribution of PARP trapping to the tolerability and efficacy of PARP inhibitors in the monotherapy setting. We developed a novel implementation of the proximity ligation assay to detect chromatin-trapped PARP1 at single-cell resolution with higher sensitivity and throughput than previously reported methods. We further demonstrate that the PARP inhibitor–induced trapping appears to drive single-agent cytotoxicity in healthy human bone marrow, indicating that the toxicity of trapped PARP complexes is not restricted to cancer cells with homologous recombination deficiency. Finally, we show that PARP inhibitors with dramatically different trapping potencies exhibit comparable tumor growth inhibition at MTDs in a xenograft model of BRCA1-mutant triple-negative breast cancer. These results are consistent with emerging clinical data and suggest that the inverse relationship between trapping potency and tolerability may limit the potential therapeutic advantage of potent trapping activity.

Implications:

PARP trapping contributes to single-agent cytotoxicity of PARP inhibitors in both cancer cells and healthy bone marrow, and the therapeutic advantage of potent trapping activity appears to be limited.
Proliferative Index in Pediatric Pilocytic Astrocytoma by Region of Origin and Prediction of Clinical Behavior
Authors: Tu Albert , Robison Aaron , Melamed Edward , Buchanan Ian , Hariri Omid , Babu Harish , Szymanski Linda , Krieger Mark
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Pilocytic astrocytomas are common pediatric tumors. Molecular profiles vary with location of origin. Comparisons of proliferation have not been reported. We sought to identify differences in growth by region and whether these predict clinical behavior. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients undergoing surgery for a pilocytic astrocytoma at Children’s Hospital LA from 2003 to 2015 was completed. Tumor location, determined by imaging, was stratified into infratentorial, supratentorial, or optic pathway. Proliferation was measured by Ki-67 immunostaining. A p value of 0.05 was deemed significant. Results: 77 patients were identified. 51 had posterior fossa tumors, 12 had supratentorial tumors, and 14 had optic pathway tumors. Mean Ki-67 score was 3.67, 4.09, and 3.83%, respectively (p = 0.82). Ki-67 of ≥4% trended towards recurrence (p = 0.11), incomplete resection (p = 0.15), and younger age at presentation (p = 0.04). Ki-67 was weakly correlated with shorter survival after surgery (r = –0.103, p = 0.41). Partial resection strongest predicted recurrence (p < 0.001; OR = 13.0). Conclusion: Proliferative index does not change by location. Higher cell proliferation was seen in younger patients and associated with shorter time to and a higher risk of recurrence. Further study is needed to identify predictors for clinical behavior. Importance of Study: This study provides a detailed analysis of the proliferative indices of tumors arising from characteristic locations within the brain. With recent advances in our understanding of the differences in molecular and genetic profiles despite similar histologic diagnoses, we felt that it was important to review whether there were unique components of tumor behavior that could be identified. In turn, we sought to determine whether tumor behavior could be used to predict the clinical course. This knowledge is important, given that not every tumor may undergo complete surgical resection, and that some lesions may require more aggressive upfront adjuvant therapy or be closely monitored for recurrence.
Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy as a Guidance Tool for Transbronchial Lung Cryobiopsies in Interstitial Lung Disorder
Authors: Wijmans Lizzy , Bonta Peter I. , Rocha-Pinto Rita , de Bruin Daniel M. , Brinkman Paul , Jonkers René E. , Roelofs Joris J.T.H. , Poletti Venerino , Hetzel Jürgen , Annema Jouke T.
Published: November 2018

Background: Transbronchial cryobiopsy (TBCB) of the lung parenchyma is a minimally invasive alternative for surgical lung biopsy in interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients. Drawbacks are the nondiagnostic rate and complication risk of pneumothorax and bleeding. Fluoroscopy is the current guidance tool for TBCB, which is limited by 2D imaging and a radiation dose for the patient. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) is a high-resolution imaging technique that provides immediate feedback during bronchoscopy about the elastin fiber network of peripheral lung areas. Both the visceral pleura and fibrotic lung areas consist of elastin fibers and are therefore potentially detectable with CLE. Objectives: To investigate whether CLE is capable of (1) distinguishing fibrotic from normal alveolar areas and (2) identifying the pleura. Methods: In and ex vivo CLE imaging obtained during bronchoscopy was compared with histology of lung biopsies in 14 ILD patients. Results: CLE imaging of the alveolar compartment was feasible in all patients without adverse events. Based on CLE imaging, key characteristics that influence both diagnostic yield (dense fibrotic areas) and complication rate (pleura and subpleural space) were visualized. Conclusions: CLE seems a promising alternative to fluoroscopy as a guidance tool for TBCB procedures.
Diagnosis, Clinical Trend, and Treatment of Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis after Femtosecond Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis: A Case Report
Authors: Balestrazzi Angelo , Balestrazzi Alessandra , Giannico Maria Ilaria , Michieletto Paolo , Balestrazzi Emilio
Published: November 2018

We report a severe case of diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK) following femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (femto-LASIK). A 25-year-old man was submitted to 150 kHz iFS® IntraLase-assisted LASIK in both eyes for compound myopic astigmatism. The day after surgery, clinical examination showed a diffuse whitish granular cell reaction particularly in the right eye. High-dose dexamethasone eyedrops with topical antibiotic and artificial tears were prescribed. Five days after surgery, a central corneal opacity with convergent striae was detected at biomicroscopy. The suspicion of DLK was confirmed. Additional therapy based on hyperosmolar ophthalmological solution, oral doxycycline, and topical 10% sodium citrate was prescribed. Treatment was continued and tapered for over 3 months. Improvement in corneal transparency were obtained 2 weeks after the systemic therapy had been started. Uncorrected visual acuity improved from 20/32 to 20/20 at 1-year follow-up. DLK represents an infrequent complication after femto-LASIK. It should resolve without sequelae if promptly diagnosed and treated, without necessity of corneal flap lifting.
Intranasal Administration of IL-27 Ameliorates Nasal Allergic Responses and Symptoms
Authors: Suzuki Motohiko , Yokota Makoto , Ozaki Shinya , Matsumoto Tamami
Published: November 2018

Background: Interleukin 27 (IL-27) is an initiator of the Th1 response and inhibits inflammatory responses. In a mouse model of asthma, administration of IL-27 reduced eosinophil numbers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and airway hyperresponsiveness. However, it is unclear whether administration of IL-27 can inhibit symptoms of allergic diseases and allergic rhinitis as a therapeutic agent. Therefore, we investigated the in vivo effect of IL-27 on nasal symptoms and allergic rhinitis. Methods: Mice sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) antigen received intranasal administration of IL-27. Results: Intranasal administration of IL-27 significantly suppressed the number of sneezes and nasal rubbing movements, the number of eosinophils, OVA-specific T-cell responses in cervical lymph nodes, production of IL-4 and IL-5, and OVA-specific IgE in sera, compared with the administration of PBS alone. The production of IL-10 and IL-35, the percentage of CD25+Foxp3+ cells, and the gene expression of Foxp3 in mice that received intranasal administration of IL-27 were also significantly higher than those in mice that received only PBS. Conclusions: This study showed, for the first time, that intranasal administration of IL-27 inhibited nasal allergic responses and symptoms even after the establishment of allergic rhinitis and suggested that IL-27 is useful as an intranasal therapeutic agent.
Multiparameter Flow Cytometry Identification of Neoplastic Subclones: A New Biomarker in Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance and Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Tarín Fabián , López-Castaño Francisco , García-Hernández Carmen , Beneit Paola , Sarmiento Héctor , Manresa Pablo , Alda Olga , Villarrubia Blanca , Blanes Margarita , Bernabéu Javier , Amorós Carmen , Sánchez-Sánchez Sara , Fernández-Miñano Carmen , De Paz Francisco , Verdú-Belmar José , Marco Pascual , Matutes Estella
Published: November 2018

Multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC)-based clonality assessment is a powerful method of diagnosis and follow-up in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and multiple myeloma (MM). However, the relevance of intraclonal heterogeneity in immunophenotypic studies remains poorly understood. The main objective of this work was to characterize the different immunophenotypic subclones in MGUS and MM patients and to investigate their correlation with disease stages. An 8-color MFC protocol with 17 markers was used to identify the subclones within the neoplastic compartment of 56 MGUS subjects, 151 newly diagnosed MM patients, 30 MM subjects in complete remission with detectable minimal residual disease, and 36 relapsed/refractory MM patients. Two or more clusters were observed in > 85% of MGUS subjects, 75% of stage I MM patients, and < 15% in stage III. Likewise, a significant correlation between the dominant subclone size, secondary cytogenetic features, and changes in the expression of CD27, CD44, and CD81 was detected. The loss of intraclonal equilibrium may be an important factor related with kinetics and risk of progression not well considered to date in MFC studies. The MFC strategy used in this work can provide useful biomarkers in MGUS and MM.
The Effect of Recombinant Human Erythropoietin on Bacterial Growth: A Dual-Edged Sword
Authors: Mittal Ankur , Singh Vandana , Chowdhary Sheemona , Moideen Amal , Kumar Deepak , Maniar Kunal , Bhattacharyya Rajasri , Banerjee Dibyajyoti
Published: November 2018

Background: Hypererythropoietinemia is associated with common diseases like non-uremic anaemia where infection burden is high. Erythropoietin (EPO) is also given as therapy for anaemia associated with chronic kidney disease and cancer and in those who are at a higher risk of infections. EPO is known to have an effect on macrophages by which it helps in the growth of some intracellular pathogens. However, its direct role on bacterial growth is currently unknown. Summary: Here, we investigated the direct effect of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhuEPO) on the growth of pathogenic Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In silico experiments were designed to gain insight into the mechanisms. We found that 30 IU/L rhuEPO promoted the growth of E. coli and S. aureus and inhibited the growth of P. aeruginosa. In silico observations suggest that bacterial cell surface proteins may interact with the EPO and may cause the observed effects. Key Message: It appears that some pathogens can explore EPO to proliferate and growth of others are inhibited by the same. The consequence of such observation is a matter of widespread concern for future research.
Maternal Complications following Open Fetal Myelomeningocele Repair at the Zurich Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Winder Franziska M. , Vonzun Ladina , Meuli Martin , Moehrlen Ueli , Mazzone Luca , Krähenmann Franziska , Hüsler Margret , Zimmermann Roland , Ochsenbein-Kölble Nicole
Published: November 2018

Introduction: Despite undoubtable benefits of open fetal myelomeningocele (fMMC) repair, there are considerable maternal risks. The aim of this study was to evaluate and systematically categorize maternal complications after open fMMC repair. Methods: We analyzed data of 40 fMMC repairs performed at the Zurich Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy. Maternal complications were classified according to a 5-level grading system based on a classification of surgical complications proposed by Clavien and Dindo. Results: We observed no grade 5 complication (death of a patient). Five (12.5%) women demonstrated severe grade 4 complications: 1 case of uterine rupture in a nullipara at 36 gestational weeks (GW), a third-degree atrioventricular block which needed short mechanical resuscitation, a bilateral lung embolism requiring intensive care unit (ICU) management due to low-output syndrome, and chorioamnionitis and urosepsis both requiring ICU management at 31 GW. Twenty-six (65%) women had minor (grade 1–3) complications. Conclusions: Only one grade 4 complication (uterine rupture, 2.5%) was a clear-cut direct consequence of fetal surgery. The other four grade 4 complications (10%) occurred in the context of, but cannot unequivocally be attributed to, fetal surgery, since they may occur also in other circumstances. The classification system used is a tenable step towards stringent documentation of maternal complications.
What’s the Difference? 2D DIGE Image Analysis by DeCyderTM versus SameSpotsTM
Authors: Schnaars Vanessa , Dörries Marvin , Hutchins Michael , Wöhlbrand Lars , Rabus Ralf
Published: November 2018

The efficiency and reproducibility of two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D DIGE) depends on several crucial steps: (i) adequate number of replicate gels, (ii) accurate image acquisition, and (iii) statistically confident protein abundance analysis. The latter is inherently determined by the image analysis system. Available software solutions apply different strategies for consecutive image alignment and protein spot detection. While DeCyderTM performs spot detection on single gels prior to the alignment of spot maps, SameSpotsTM completes image alignment in advance of spot detection. In this study, the performances of DeCyderTM and SameSpotsTM were compared considering all protein spots detected in 2D DIGE resolved proteomes of three different environmental bacteria with minimal user interference. Proteome map-based analysis by SameSpotsTM allows for fast and reproducible abundance change determination, avoiding time-consuming, manual spot matching. The different raw spot volumes, determined by the two software solutions, did not affect calculated abundance changes. Due to a slight factorial difference, minor abundance changes were very similar, while larger differences in the case of major abundance changes did not impact biological interpretation in the studied cases. Overall, affordable fluorescent dyes in combination with fast CCD camera-based image acquisition and user-friendly image analysis still qualify 2D DIGE as a valuable tool for quantitative proteomics.
Biochemical Markers, Genotype, and Inflammation in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Danish Population-Based Study
Authors: Ziade Farah , Rungoe Christine , Kallemose Thomas , Paerregaard Anders , Wewer Anne Vibeke , Jakobsen Christian
Published: November 2018

Background: Our aim was to characterize the biochemical markers at diagnosis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), to assess the utility of these to predict disease course and investigate if genotype influences biochemical markers of inflammation. Summary: Patients were included from a population-based pediatric IBD cohort from Eastern Denmark. Data on biochemical markers and medical as well as surgical treatment were registered at diagnosis, 30 days, 6 and 12 months after diagnosis. Fifty-two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) known to be associated with IBD were selected for genotyping based on previous genetic studies. Key messages: A total of 190 IBD patients (97 ulcerative colitis [UC], 87 Crohn’s disease [CD], and 6 IBD unclassified) were included. UC patients with extensive disease had higher C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and platelet count at diagnosis compared to UC patients with less extensive disease. No similar differences between disease extent groups were found in CD. Low albumin at diagnosis was associated with an increased risk of surgery in both UC (OR 1.35; 95% CI: 1.05–1.75) and CD patients (OR 1.23; 95% CI: 1.01–1.48) and increased use of azathioprine and anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha use in the total IBD cohort (OR 1.15; 95% CI: 1.04–1.27 and OR 1.19 [1.08–1.34]). One SNP (rs4986791 in the TLR-4 locus) and 2 SNPs (rs6785049 in the Pregnane-x-receptor gene and rs10500264 in the SLCA10 gene) were associated with a change in albumin and hemoglobin over time respectively in our IBD cohort. Our study confirms albumin to be a marker of severe disease course. Furthermore, the patient’s genotype possibly affects the inflammatory response. Future studies in larger pediatric cohorts are needed to confirm our findings.
Long-Term Effect of Rifaximin with and without Lactulose on the Active Bacterial Assemblages in the Proximal Small Bowel and Faeces in Patients with Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Schulz Christian , Schütte Kerstin , Vilchez-Vargas Ramiro , Vasapolli Riccardo , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: November 2018

Background: Gut microbiota play an essential role in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Treatment strategies are directed to modulate intestinal microbiota profiles and their function by the administration of the non-absorbable disaccharide lactulose and the non-absorbable antibiotic rifaximin, which are required for long terms, but little is known on their long-term effect on gut microbiota composition and function. Aim: To characterize the active bacterial assemblages in duodenum and faeces in patients with minimal HE (MHE) before, during and after long-term therapy with rifaximin. Methods: We analysed the microbiota composition in 5 patients with liver cirrhosis and MHE treated either with rifaximin 550 mg bid alone continuously for a period of 3 months or combined with lactulose 30–60 mL daily for 3 months. In addition to clinical assessments of HE, biopsies from duodenum and stool samples were analysed for their specific bacterial community applying NGS after RNA isolation before treatment, after 3 months of treatment and 3 months after the end of treatment. Results: All 5 patients had a significant improvement of their MHE. Bacterial communities were different and distinct in duodenal samples and faeces. No statistically significant changes were found in the bacterial community profile at the different time points. Conclusion: Rifaximin therapy with and without lactulose over a period of 3 months does not affect the bacterial community composition. The improvement of HE with rifaximin is lasting also after the end of treatment and therefore a prolonged effect on microbiota metabolic function is suggested.
Dynamic Postural Stability and Hearing Preservation after Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Buhl Christof , Artemiev Dmitri , Pfiffner Flurin , Swanenburg Jaap , Veraguth Dorothe , Roosli Christof , Huber Alexander , Dalbert Adrian
Published: November 2018

Objectives: (1) To assess dynamic postural stability before and after cochlear implantation using a functional gait assessment (FGA). (2) To evaluate the correlation between loss of residual hearing and changes in dynamic postural stability after cochlear implantation. Methods: Candidates for first-sided cochlear implantation were prospectively included. The FGAs and pure-tone audiograms were performed before and 4–6 weeks after cochlear implantation. Results: Twenty-three subjects were included. Forty-eight percent (n = 11) showed FGA performance below the age-referenced norm before surgery. One subject had a clinically relevant decrease of the FGA score after cochlear implantation. No significant difference between the mean pre- and postoperative FGA scores was detectable (p = 0.4). Postoperative hearing loss showed no correlation with a change in FGA score after surgery (r = 0.3, p = 0.3, n = 16). Conclusion: Single-sided cochlear implantation does not adversely affect dynamic postural stability 5 weeks after surgery. Loss of functional residual hearing is not correlated with a decrease in dynamic postural stability.
Predictors of Hospitalization After Ureteroscopy Plus Elective Double-J Stent as an Outpatient Procedure
Authors: Salciccia Stefano , Sciarra Alessandro , Pierella Federico , Leoncini Pier Paolo , Vitullo Patrizia , Polese Milena , Maggi Martina , Perugia Giacomo , Di Marco Pierangelo , Ricciuti Gian Piero
Published: November 2018

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and feasibility of ureteroscopy plus elective double-J stent as an outpatient procedure in an unselected population with regard to the treatment for ureteral calculi and to present a multivariate analysis of factors predict hospitalization. Materials and Methods: Ureteroscopy was performed as an outpatient procedure on 308 consecutive patients with ureteral stones. Contraindication for day case surgery was the only exclusion criteria from the study. All causes that led to immediate hospitalization were recorded; at the same time, all causes of hospitalization that occurred within 72 h from the procedure were also recorded and included in the final analysis. Results: The overall stone-free rate and the rate of hospitalization were 94.5 and 9.7% respectively. Intraoperative complications were observed in 16 patients (5.1%). In terms of the variables related to hospitalization, the univariate analysis showed a statistical significant association between the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score (p < 0.001) and operative time (p = 0.018). At multivariate analysis, the only independent factor predictor of hospitalization was the ASA score (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In our experience, semirigid ureteroscopy is a safe and effective treatment that is independent of intraoperative local conditions or stone size. Elective Double-J stenting avoids major complications as the first reason for hospitalization. We suggest that ASA score > 2 should be taken into account when ureterorenoscopy is planning as an outpatient procedure.
CXCL12 and CXCR4 in the Peripheral Blood of Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Bagheri Vahid , Khorramdelazad Hossein , Hassanshahi Gholamhossein , Moghadam-Ahmadi Amir , Vakilian Alireza
Published: November 2018

Objective: The role of CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 has not been fully examined in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of CXCL12/CXCR4 in the peripheral blood of patients with PD and healthy controls. Methods: CXCL12 serum levels and CXCR4 mRNA levels were measured in 30 PD patients and 40 controls using ELISA and real-time PCR, respectively. Results: CXCL12 serum levels were significantly higher in PD patients compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Moreover, CXCR4 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of PD patients was significantly increased compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our findings provide new information on the expression of CXCL12/CXCR4 in PD. CXCR4 expression in PBMC or CXCL12 serum levels may be potential biomarkers of inflammation in PD patients.
Spontaneous Pathological Complete Regression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Taniai Tomohiko , Shirai Yoshihiro , Shiba Hiroaki , Sakamoto Taro , Furukawa Kenei , Yanaga Katsuhiko
Published: November 2018

Several possible mechanisms for spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been reported. Spontaneous complete regression of HCC is extremely rare. We herein report a case of spontaneous pathological complete regression of HCC following decrement of elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). The serum AFP of a 74-year-old man who underwent hepatic resection for HCC twice increased up to 7,529 ng/mL and then spontaneously decreased to 404 ng/mL in 2 months. Computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and angiography revealed a liver tumor in segment 7 without early enhancement. With a diagnosis of recurrent HCC, partial hepatic resection was performed. The resected specimens revealed no HCC macroscopically, and pathological examination revealed only a small area with cell dysplasia. The patient remains well with normal serum AFP and protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist-II (PIVKA-II) levels for 29 months after the third hepatic resection without recurrence of HCC. We describe a case of spontaneous pathological complete regression of HCC following decrement of elevated serum AFP. Further studies are needed to identify the mechanism(s) of spontaneous regression of HCC.
Comparison of the Accuracy of the Novel PrisMax Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy System to the Classic Prismaflex System
Authors: Bell Max , Broman Marcus , Joannes-Boyau Olivier , Ronco Claudio
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: We assessed how the novel PrisMax continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) system performed in an international multicentre setting. The system has multiple novel tools aiming to increase accuracy and dose delivery. Methods: Data was prospectively collected from 7 intensive care units in 6 countries. The PrisMax device data logs constituted the raw material and last generation Prismaflex data was used as comparison. Clinical parameters like treatment time, filter life span, downtime as well as prescribed and delivered dose were recorded. Results: PrisMax delivered/prescribed effluent ratios (mean ± SD) 0.92 ± 0.15 vs. Prismaflex ratios 0.85 ± 0.21, p < 0.001; delivered effluent dose (mL/kg/h) was 18.16 ± 12.93 vs. 10.95 ± 10.96, p < 0.0001; and (Kt/V) 0.76 ± 0.52 vs. 0.44 ± 0.44, p < 0.0001. Moreover, downtime was 27 minutes less for the newer device. Conclusion: The PrisMax CRRT device outperforms its predecessor with regard to dose delivery and accuracy.
Fatty Acid Composition of the Erythrocyte Membranes Varies between Early-Term, Full-Term, and Late-Term Infants in Japan
Authors: Kitamura Yohei , Kogomori Chieko , Hamano Hirokazu  , Maekawa Iwao , Shimizu Takashi , Shiga Seigo
Published: November 2018

Background: Term infants can be categorized into 3 sub-groups: early term (37w0d to 38w6d), full term (39w0d to 40w6d), and late term (41w0d and beyond). However, the fatty acid composition among the 3 groups of term infants has not been investigated. The association between fatty acid composition and gestational period of term infants in Japan is unclear. Methods: We assessed the fatty acid composition of maternal erythrocyte membranes in the third trimester and of cord erythrocyte membranes at birth in 212 healthy term Japanese infants using data from a prospective hospital-based cohort study. Results: In maternal erythrocyte membranes, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels and omega-3 index were significantly higher in the late-term group than in the early-term group. In cord erythrocyte membranes, DHA levels were not significantly different between the 3 groups; late-term infants showed significantly higher DHA/arachidonic acid (ARA) and lower 20: 3n-6 and ARA levels compared to early-term infants. Gestational period positively correlated with the DHA status in maternal and cord erythrocyte membranes. Conclusions: Fatty acid composition in maternal and cord erythrocyte membranes varies between early-, full-, and late-term infants, and the greater gestational period may contribute to the relatively high n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids status in term infants. Furthermore, maternal DHA status in the third semester directly correlates with gestational period in pregnant Japanese women.
A Prospective Study of Maternal Plasma Concentrations of Retinol-Binding Protein 4 and Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Du Chenxiang , Kong Fanjing
Published: November 2018

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate whether retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) concentrations, measured at the first prenatal visit, are associated with risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: From July 2015 to June 2016, consecutive women who admitted to the obstetrics center of our hospital were included. At the first prenatal visit (the median gestational age was 6 [interquartile range 4–10] weeks) in the hospital, involved subjects were tested for fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and RBP4 using venous plasma samples collected after at least 8 h of fasting in the morning. Data for FPG and RBP4 concentrations at the first prenatal visit and one-step GDM screening with 75-g oral glucose tolerance test performed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation were collected and analyzed. Results: Blood at first prenatal visit was available for 827 women, among whom GDM developed in 101 (12.2%). In multivariate models comparing the second (Q2), third, and fourth quartiles against the first quartile of RBP4, concentrations of RBP4 in Q2, Q3, and Q4 were associated with GDM later developed, and increased risk of GDM by 54, 205, and 536%. There was a significant statistical difference in the area under the curve between the established risk factors alone and the addition of RBP4 concentrations (difference, 0.039 [95% CI 0.030–0.052]; p = 0.03). In the subgroup of women combined with obesity and FABP4 ≥median, the measured OR was 9.83 (95% CI [4.76–16.13]; p < 0.001) for GDM compared to those without obesity and FABP4 <median. Conclusions: There is evidence of a positive association of early pregnancy elevated RBP4 concentration with increased GDM risk, particularly among women with advanced age and obesity.
Two new records in Orchidaceae (Vanillinae) from southernmost Colombian Amazonia: Vanilla javieri, a new species, and Vanilla appendiculata
Authors: BARONA-COLMENARES ANDRÉS A.
Published: November 2018

This paper deals with two new records for the genus Vanilla in the Colombian Amazonia. Both species are part of the Vanilla planifolia group and exhibit fleshy leaves with conspicuous petioles, greenish flowers with concave lips, a well-defined penicillate callus and recurved lip apices with small papillae. The new species, Vanilla javieri, is easily distinguished by its habit as a small understory hemiepiphyte vine with terminal inflorescences exhibiting a basal, non-floriferous, sub-cordate foliaceous bract; small greenish cream-colored flowers with a glabrous ventral surface of the column and a strongly reflexed lip apex adorned by few digitiform papillae; along with highly aromatic fruits that are pendant, basally arcuate, rather stout and obscurely calyculate. The new species is sympatric and closely related to Vanilla appendiculata, reported here for the first time in Colombia. Botanical descriptions and photographs are presented for both species.
A new synonym in Pantropical Aspilia (Ecliptinae, Heliantheae, Asteraceae)
Authors: ALVES MARIA , ROQUE NÁDIA
Published: November 2018

Currently there are two distinct concepts for Aspilia Thouars (1806: 12) and Wedelia Jacq. (1760: 28) (Ecliptinae, Heliantheae, Asteraceae). The first concept separates Aspilia and Wedelia by neutral ray flowers vs. fertile ray flowers, respectively (Candolle 1836, Bentham 1873, Baker 1884). This concept was adopted by Santos (2001) who added the presence of a scar at the base of cypselae in Aspilia of Brazil (vs. its absence in Wedelia), a taxonomic position followed by the Brazilian researchers (BFG 2015, Alves & Roque 2016, Silva & Teles 2017, Flora do Brasil 2020 under construction). The second concept considers only Wedelia as a valid genus encompassing all Aspilia species (Strother 1991, Robinson 1992, Turner 1992, Panero 2007). Studies of molecular phylogeny are being conducted in the Aspilia and Wedelia complex in order to recover monophyletic groups (Alves in prep) and for this, new nomenclatural arrangements are required as follow below.
A new species and a new record of Thyronectria (Nectriaceae, Hypocreales) in China
Authors: LI SHENG-NAN , ZHAO YING , TIAN CHENG-MING , MICHAILIDES THEMIS J. , MA RONG
Published: November 2018

A new species, Thyronectria berberidis, is described and illustrated based on collections on Berberis heteropoda from the Ili area of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in China. Thyronectria berberidis is characterized by superficial, gregarious ascomata that become cupulate upon drying, with (1–6)7-septate, ellipsoidal to fusiform ascospores. In addition, T. lamyi is reported for the first time in China. The morphology characteristics of T. berberidis and T. lamyi were compared to those of close relatives. Their phylogenetic positions were confirmed by analyses of combined sequences of alpha-actin, the internal transcribed spacer, the large nuclear ribosomal RNA subunit, translation elongation factor 1-alpha and beta-tubulin. This is the first record that Thyronectria is established in the B. heteropoda in China.
Review of the New World species of Salina (Collembola: Paronellidae) with bidentate mucro, including a key to all New World members of Salina
Authors: SOTO-ADAMES FELIPE N.
Published: November 2018

The taxonomic status of the four New World species of Salina MacGillivray with bidentate mucro is uncertain. The first two species to be described, S. bidentata (Handschin) and S. wolcotti Folsom, are so poorly described by modern standards that it is unclear if they represent distinct species or the same, colour-pattern variable forms. This contribution presents additions to the description of S. beta Christiansen & Bellinger based on the holotype, a redescription of S. bidentata and S. wolcotti based on freshly collected material from Costa Rica, Puerto Rico and Florida, USA, and description of a new species, S. thibaudi, from Costa Rica and Guadaloupe. Based on analysis of chaetotaxic patterns it is concluded that S. bidentata and S. wolcotti are distinct species, although it remains unclear if S. ventricolor Gruia, from Cuba is distinct from S. wolcotti. The discovery in Costa Rica and Guadaloupe of S. thibaudi, showing a distinct chaetotaxy, but with colour pattern identical to that illustrated in the original description of S. wolcotti, suggests that records of S. wolcotti outside Puerto Rico require verification. A key for the identification of all species of Salina reported from the Americas is provided.
Revision of the Neotropical genus Cheiromyia Dyte (Diptera: Dolichopodidae)
Authors: BROOKS SCOTT E. , CUMMING JEFFREY M. , POLLET MARC A. A.
Published: November 2018

The Neotropical dolichopodine genus Cheiromyia is revised. The limits of the genus are redefined to include only those species with one or more elongate projections on the male postpedicel. Cheiromyia maculipennis (Van Duzee) is transferred to Paraclius Loew comb. nov. Cheiromyia is now known from Costa Rica south to Bolivia and the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, and includes the following five species: Cheiromyia bicornis Brooks sp. nov., C. brevitarsis Brooks sp. nov., C. laselva Brooks sp. nov., C. palmaticornis (Parent) and C. pennaticornis (Parent). A key to males is provided, as well as some remarks on related species of Paraclius.
New species of the genus Agrilus Curtis, 1825, from Nicaragua and Panamá (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Agrilinae)
Authors: CURLETTI GIANFRANCO
Published: November 2018

Nine new species of the genus Agrilus are herein described: A. erici n. sp., A. dauberi n. sp., A. goldsteini n. sp., A. ivetteae n. sp., A. semicinctus n. sp., A. glebae n. sp., A. cerrolatus n. sp., A. disparifrons n. sp. from Nicaragua and A. grandinatus n. sp. from Panamá.
Five new Stenus species of the cephalotes group (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) from China with a key to Chinese species of the group
Authors: TANG LIANG , LI LI-ZHEN , PUTHZ VOLKER
Published: November 2018

Five new Stenus species of the cephalotes group are described from China: S. substrictus Tang & Puthz, sp. nov. and S. breviculus Tang & Puthz, sp. nov. from Zhejiang Prov., S. gonggashanus Tang & Puthz, sp. nov., S. latipectus Tang & Puthz, sp. nov. and S. tianquanensis Tang & Puthz, sp. nov. from Sichuan Prov., and their diagnostic characters are illustrated. A key to Chinese species of the cephalotes group is provided.
Description of a new species of Odontofroggatia (Chalcidoidea, Epichrysomallinae) associated with Ficus microcarpa (Moraceae) with a key to species of the genus
Authors: FENG GUI , HUANG DA-WEI
Published: November 2018

Odontofroggatia is a non-pollinating fig wasp genus associated with a narrow range of host species (Ficus microcarpa and F. prasinicarpa). A new species, Odontofroggatia quinifuniculus Feng & Huang sp. nov., is described from specimens reared from F. microcarpa in Hainan province, China. A key for distinguishing species is presented. The holotype is deposited in Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Two new species of the orb-weaving spider genus Alpaida from Brazil (Araneae: Araneidae)
Authors: SANTOS KARINA P. , SANTOS ADALBERTO J.
Published: November 2018

Two new species of Araneidae, Alpaida itacolomi n. sp. and A. tonze n. sp., from Ouro Preto (Minas Gerais, Brazil) are described based on both sexes.
Uca jocelynae sp. nov., a new species of fiddler crab (Crustacea: Brachyura: Ocypodidae) from the Western Pacific
Authors: SHIH HSI-TE , NARUSE TOHRU , NG PETER K. L.
Published: November 2018

A new species of fiddler crab, Uca jocelynae sp. nov., belonging to the U. vocans complex, is described from the islands in Western Pacific on the basis of morphological and molecular data. The new species was previously identified with U. neocultrimana (Bott, 1973) (= U. vocans pacificensis Crane, 1975). The two species can be readily distinguished by characters of the male major chelae, carapace features, and the form of the vulvae. The molecular data of parts of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA and cytochrome oxidase I (COI) genes support that both are sister taxa but nevertheless distinct enough to be regarded as separate species. Uca jocelynae is widely distributed from the islands in the Western Pacific, while U. neocultrimana occurs in Fiji and eastwards.
Mud shrimp associated with burrows from the Oligocene Ashiya Group, northern Kyushu, Japan, with description of a new species of Upogebia (Decapoda: Gebiidea)
Authors: ANDO YUSUKE , KARASAWA HIROAKI
Published: November 2018

Upogebia hibiki sp. nov. (Gebiidea: Upogebiidae) is described from the Oligocene of northern Kyushu, Japan. The new species closely resembles U. mizunamiensis Karasawa 1989, but differs in having an arched ridge on the dorso-distal mesial surface of the palm of pereiopod 1. Additionally, the new species has a triangular rostrum and a narrow gastric region. The specimens are associated with fossil burrows assigned to the ichnogenus Psilonichnus Fürsich, 1981. Therefore, Psilonichnus described herein is thought to be formed by U. hibiki sp. nov.
Utilizing the Dynamic Role of Objects to Enhance Cross-Cultural Climate Change Collaborations
Authors: Kalafatis Scott E. , Libarkin Julie C. , Whyte Kyle Powys , Caldwell Chris
Published: November 2018

Engagements between climate scientists and communities feature challenges but are also essential for successfully preparing for climate change. This is particularly true for indigenous peoples who are proactively responding to the threats that climate change poses by engaging in collaborations with climate decision-support organizations. The potential for risks and rewards associated with engagements like these makes developing tools for comprehensively, consistently, and equitably assessing cross-cultural climate collaborations a critical challenge. This paper describes a multicultural team’s efforts to develop a survey that can assess collaborations between Native American tribes in the United States and climate science organizations. In the process, the developing survey’s oscillations between acting as a boundary object and acting as an epistemic object in the project revealed common ground as well as existing differences across the cultural, disciplinary, and professional divides involved. Delphi expert elicitation was shown to be an effective approach for negotiating a cross-cultural research effort like this one because of its ability to establish consensus while delineating gaps. This experience highlights that assessing cross-cultural climate collaborations requires that both researchers and the tools that they use have the capacity to identify both common ground and distinctions between climate scientists and the communities with which they collaborate.
Lifetime Disadvantages after Childhood Adversity: Health Problems Limiting Work and Shorter Life
Authors: Laditka James N. , Laditka Sarah B.
Published: November 2018

We examine how childhood adversity relates to work disability and life expectancy, using 1999 to 2015 data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. We estimate the probabilities of work disability and death, adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and education in a nationally representative sample of African American, Hispanic, and white women and men. We find that people in all these groups who experienced high-adversity childhoods (individuals with four or more of six adversity indicators) had significantly more work disability and shorter lives than those who experienced no adversity. These findings provide evidence that childhood adversity is associated with substantial disability and a reduction in life expectancy of at least a decade. Childhood adversity was generally associated with more lost years of life for men than for women, and more disability for women than for men. The results are robust, even when controlling for diabetes, heart disease, depression, obesity, and sedentary behavior.
Addressing Racial Health Disparities: Looking Back to Point the Way Forward
Authors: Johnson Rucker C.
Published: November 2018

This article investigates the influence of family background and neighborhood conditions during childhood on health later in life, with a focus on hypertension. To document the proportion of current adult racial health disparities rooted in early-life factors, I use nationally representative longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) spanning four decades. The results indicate that racial differences in early life neighborhood conditions and family background characteristics play a substantial role in explaining racial disparities in hypertension through at least age 50. Contemporaneous socioeconomic factors account for relatively little of the racial disparities in this health condition in adulthood. Second, I match the PSID data to county-level data on Medicaid expenditures during these cohorts’ childhoods, and provide new causal evidence on the long-run returns to childhood Medicaid spending: Medicaid-induced increases in access to public health insurance led to significant reductions in the likelihood of low birth weight, increased educational attainment and adult income, and reduced adult mortality and the annual incidence of health problems.