bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Truncated Epithelial Sodium Channel β Subunit Responsible for Liddle Syndrome in a Chinese Family
Authors: Fan Peng , Lu Chao-Xia , Yang Kun-Qi , Lu Pei-Pei , Hao Su-Fang , Luo Fang , Zhang Hui-Min , Song Lei , Wu Hai-Ying , Cai Jun , Zhang Xue , Zhou Xian-Liang
Published: August 2019

Background/Aims: Liddle syndrome (LS) is a rare autosomal dominant disease caused by mutations in genes coding for epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) subunits. The aim of this study was to identify the mutation responsible for the LS in an extended Chinese family. Methods: DNA samples from the proband with early-onset, treatment-resistant hypertension, and hypokalemia and 19 additional relatives were all sequenced for mutations in exon 13 of the β-ENaC and γ-ENaC genes, using amplification by polymerase chain reaction and direct DNA sequencing. Results: Genetic testing of exon 13 of SCNN1B revealed duplication of guanine into a string of 3 guanines located at codon 602. This frameshift mutation is predicted to generate a premature stop codon at position 607, resulting in truncated β-ENaC lacking the remaining 34 amino acids, including the crucial PY motif. Among a total of 9 participants with the identical mutation, different phenotypes were identified. Tailored treatment with amiloride was safe and effective in alleviating disease symptoms in LS. No mutation of SCNN1G was identified in any of the examined participants. Conclusions: We report here a family affected by LS harboring a frameshift mutation (c.1806dupG) with a premature stop codon deleting the PY motif of β-ENaC. Our study demonstrates that the earlier LS patients are diagnosed by genetic testing and treated with tailored medication, the greater the likelihood of preventing or minimizing complications in the vasculature and target organs.
Rethinking the Effects of Body Size on the Study of Brain Size Evolution
Authors: Font Enrique , García-Roa Roberto , Pincheira-Donoso Daniel , Carazo Pau
Published: August 2019

Body size correlates with most structural and functional components of an organism’s phenotype – brain size being a prime example of allometric scaling with animal size. Therefore, comparative studies of brain evolution in vertebrates rely on controlling for the scaling effects of body size variation on brain size variation by calculating brain weight/body weight ratios. Differences in the brain size-body size relationship between taxa are usually interpreted as differences in selection acting on the brain or its components, while selection pressures acting on body size, which are among the most prevalent in nature, are rarely acknowledged, leading to conflicting and confusing conclusions. We address these problems by comparing brain-body relationships from across >1,000 species of birds and non-avian reptiles. Relative brain size in birds is often assumed to be 10 times larger than in reptiles of similar body size. We examine how differences in the specific gravity of body tissues and in body design (e.g., presence/absence of a tail or a dense shell) between these two groups can affect estimates of relative brain size. Using phylogenetic comparative analyses, we show that the gap in relative brain size between birds and reptiles has been grossly exaggerated. Our results highlight the need to take into account differences between taxa arising from selection pressures affecting body size and design, and call into question the widespread misconception that reptile brains are small and incapable of supporting sophisticated behavior and cognition.
Role of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography or Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography for the Detection of Recurrent Disease after Treatment of Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Lee Jae Woo , Nam Su Bong , Kim Seong-Jang
Published: August 2019

Background: The purpose of the current study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) or PET/computed tomography (PET/CT) for the detection of recurrent disease after treatment of malignant melanoma (MM) through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: The PubMed and EMBASE databases, from the earliest available date of indexing through December 31, 2018, were searched for studies evaluating the diagnostic performance of 18F-FDG-PET or PET/CT for the detection of recurrent disease after treatment of MM. We determined the sensitivities and specificities across studies, calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR–), and constructed summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves. Results: Across 14 results from 11 studies, the pooled sensi­tivity for 18F-FDG-PET or PET/CT was 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90–0.97) with heterogeneity (I2 = 57.95) and a pooled specificity of 0.91 (95% CI 0.88–0.93) without heterogeneity (I2 = 27.24). LR syntheses gave an overall LR+ of 10.4 (95% CI 7.7–14.2) and an LR– of 0.06 (95% CI 0.04–0.11). The pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 162 (95% CI 94–280). The hierarchical SROC curve indicated that the area under the curve was 0.96 (95% CI 0.93–0.97). In meta-regression analysis, no definite variable was the source of the study heterogeneity. Conclusion: The current meta-analysis showed a high sensitivity and specificity of 18F-FDG-PET or PET/CT for the detection of recurrent disease after treatment of MM. The LR scattergram indicated that 18F-FDG-PET or PET/CT is useful for exclusion and confirmation of recurrent disease after treatment of MM.
Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor-Associated Factor 5 Promotes Arterial Neointima Formation through Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation
Authors: Willecke Florian , Rupprecht Benjamin , Gissler Mark Colin , Pfeiffer Katharina , Anto-Michel Nathaly , Stachon Peter , Wolf Dennis , Hilgendorf Ingo , Hoppe Natalie , Bode Christoph , Zirlik Andreas
Published: August 2019

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor-associated factors (TRAFs) are cytoplasmic adaptor proteins of the TNF/interleukin (IL)-1/Toll-like receptor superfamily. Ligands of this family such as TNFα, CD40L, and IL-1β promote chronic inflammatory processes such as atherosclerosis and restenosis, the latter being a common adverse reaction after vascular interventions. We previously reported overexpression of TRAF5 in murine and human atheromata and TRAF5-dependent proinflammatory functions in vitro. However, the role of TRAF5 in restenosis remains unsettled. To evaluate whether TRAF5 affects neointima formation, TRAF5–/–LDLR–/– and TRAF5+/+LDLR–/– mice consuming a high cholesterol diet (HCD) received wire-induced injury of the carotid artery. After 28 days, TRAF5-deficient mice showed a 45% decrease in neointimal area formation compared with TRAF5-compentent mice. Furthermore, neointimal vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMC) and macrophages decreased whereas collagen increased in TRAF5-deficient mice. Mechanistically, the latter expressed lower transcript levels of the matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9, both instrumental in extracellular matrix degradation and vSMC mobilization. Additionally, TRAF5-specific siRNA interference rendered murine vSMC less proliferative upon CD40L stimulation. In accordance with these findings, fewer vSMC isolated from TRAF5-deficient aortas were in a proliferative state as assessed by Ki67 and cyclin B1 expression. In conclusion, TRAF5 deficiency mitigates neointima formation in mice, likely through a TRAF5-dependent decrease in vSMC proliferation.
Quality of Life of Couples Living with Sarcoidosis
Authors: Voortman Mareye , Hendriks Celine M.R. , Lodder Paul , Drent Marjolein , De Vries Jolanda
Published: August 2019

Background: Consequences of sarcoidosis are wide ranging, and the symptom burden has a great impact on patients’ quality of life (QoL). However, the QoL of couples living with sarcoidosis has not yet been studied. Objectives: Our aim was to assess the QoL of couples living with sarcoidosis and to evaluate whether living with a partner with sarcoidosis influences the partner’s QoL. Furthermore, we aimed to assess whether nonspecific symptoms (fatigue, cognitive failure, small fiber neuropathy (SFN)-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, and state/trait anxiety) predict QoL of partners as well as sarcoidosis patients. Method: Sarcoidosis outpatients, recruited at Maastricht University Medical Centre (n = 443), and their partners (n = 208) completed several questionnaires, including the World Health Organization QoL - BREF, Fatigue Assessment Scale, SFN screening list, and cognitive failure questionnaire. Results: QoL of the partners as well as the sarcoidosis patients was reduced compared with healthy controls, especially regarding the physical health domain. All nonspecific symptoms studied, as well as perceived social support, predicted one or more QoL domains in the sarcoidosis patients, but these factors did not predict the QoL of their partners. Conclusions: The QoL of partners of sarcoidosis patients was reduced, although to a lesser extent than that of the patients. Although the nonspecific symptoms and perceived social support were related to the patients’ QoL, this was not the case for the partners. In the management of sarcoidosis, it is important to focus not only on the patients but also on their partners.
Quality of Life in Uveal Melanoma Patients in Ireland: A Single-Centre Survey
Authors: Scannell Olya , O’Neill Valerie , Dunne Mary , Baily Caroline , Salih Amira , Cunningham Moya , Horgan Noel
Published: August 2019

Background: Uveal melanoma and its treatment can influence the physical and psychological well-being of patients in a way that differs from other cancers. Factors influencing quality of life (QOL) include visual impairment, changes in appearance, day-to-day functioning, ocular discomfort, and worry regarding disease recurrence. Objective: We aimed to study both general and disease-specific QOL in uveal melanoma patients in Ireland and compare QOL between a plaque radiotherapy group and an enucleation treatment group. This information was sought to enhance our understanding of QOL issues for uveal melanoma patients, in the context of improving care and providing appropriate psychosocial support. Method: The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QOL questionnaires QLQ-C30 and QLQ-OPT30 were completed by patients with uveal melanoma treated by enucleation or brachytherapy. Results: 138 of 206 patients completed the questionnaires. There was no significant difference in QOL scores between treatment groups. Thirty-two percent of patients reported concerns about tumour recurrence elsewhere in the body. The brachytherapy group had a significantly higher “role functioning” score (p = 0.030). Enucleation patients were more likely to have problems with appearance (p < 0.0005). Younger patients (12–54 years of age) were more likely to report headaches (p < 0.0005) and problems with reading (p = 0.042), and they had a lower cognitive functioning score (p = 0.003) than those aged ≥55 years. Conclusions: There was no significant difference in reported QOL between treatment groups. Our data identified a number of vulnerable patient subgroups. By anticipating which patients are more likely to suffer in terms of certain aspects of their QOL, we are better able to provide appropriate and timely psychosocial support.
The EOLO (End-of-Life Ovarian Cancer) Study: Approach to Ovarian Cancer Patients at the End of Life
Authors: Palaia Innocenza , Tomao Federica , Santangelo Giusi , Di Pinto Anna , Sassu Carolina Maria , Perniola Giorgia , Musella Angela , Di Donato Violante , Giancotti Antonella , Benedetti Panici Pierluigi
Published: August 2019

Background: Chemotherapy at the end of life is a complex and challenging problem in medical oncology. Patients affected by ovarian cancer (OC) often experience a chronicization and slow progression of their disease, and chemotherapy is proposed until the end of life. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients affected by OC treated at our department and having died in the period between 2007 and 2017 and evaluated the frequency of antineoplastic treatments until the end of life, the chemotherapy-related toxicity, mortality, and the most frequent palliative care measure adopted. Results: A total of 110 OC deaths, after a median overall patient survival of 52.8 months (range 4–232), were analyzed. 77.3% of the patients presented with FIGO stage IIIC OC at diagnosis and 12.7% with FIGO stage IV OC. 89% of the histological types were serous papillary. The median age was 55 years (range 31–82) at diagnosis and 60 years (range 33–84) at death. Of the 110 patients analyzed, 85 (77%) had undergone chemotherapy over the last 3 months of life and 38% had chemotherapy even during the last month of life. The overwhelming majority of patients (81%) needed supportive therapies. Despite the treatments received, the majority of the patients died at home, 19% died in hospital, and only 4.5% died in hospice. The quality of life of these patients decreased dramatically in the last 30 days, but best supportive care improved the symptoms. Conclusions: End-of-life chemotherapy for OC patients is a thorny problem. More studies and a multidisciplinary approach are needed to better treat these patients.
Co-Deposition of IgM and C3 May Indicate Unfavorable Renal Outcomes in Adult Patients with Primary Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Mirioglu Safak , Caliskan Yasar , Ozluk Yasemin , Dirim Ahmet Burak , Istemihan Zulal , Akyildiz Arif  , Yazici Halil , Turkmen Aydin , Kilicaslan Isin , Sever Mehmet Sukru
Published: August 2019

Background/Aims: We aimed to investigate the effects of glomerular IgM and C3 deposition on outcomes of adult patients with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Methods: In this retrospective analysis, 86 consecutive adult patients with biopsy-proven primary FSGS were stratified into 3 groups according to their histopathological features: IgM– C3–, IgM+ C3–, and IgM+ C3+. Primary outcome was defined as at least a 50% reduction in baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or development of kidney failure, while complete or partial remission rates were secondary outcomes. Results: Glomerular IgM deposits were found in 44 (51.1%) patients, 22 (25.5%) of which presented with accompanying C3 deposition. Patients in IgM+ C3+ group had higher level of proteinuria (5.6 g/24 h [3.77–8.5], p = 0.073), higher percentage of segmental glomerulosclerosis (20% [12.3–27.2], p = 0.001), and lower levels of eGFR (69 ± 37.2 mL/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.029) and serum albumin (2.71 ± 0.85 g/dL, p = 0.045) at the time of diagnosis. Despite 86.3% of patients in IgM+ C3+ group (19/22) received immunosuppressive treatment, the primary outcome was more common in patients in the IgM+ C3+ group compared with patients in IgM+ C3– and IgM– C3– groups (11 [50%] vs. 2 [9%] and 11 [26.1%] respectively [p = 0.010]). Complete or partial remission rates were lower in patients in the IgM+ C3+ group (5/22, 22.7%), as well (p = 0.043). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that IgM and C3 co-deposition was an independent risk factor associated with primary outcome (hazard ratio 3.355, 95% CI 1.349–8.344, p = 0.009). Conclusions: Glomerular IgM and C3 co-deposition is a predictor of unfavorable renal outcomes in adult patients with primary FSGS.
Sputum Microbiome Dynamics in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients during an Exacerbation Event and Post-Stabilization
Authors: López Caro Juan Carlos , Santibáñez Miguel , García Rivero Juan Luis , Villanueva Manuel , Sainz Jesús , González Astorqui Pablo , Hierro Margarita , Rodríguez Porres Mariano , Paras Bravo Paula , Mira Alex , Rodriguez Juan Carlos , Galiana Antonio ,   on behalf of the ACINAR-microbiome study group
Published: August 2019

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects up to 65 million people worldwide, and COPD exacerbation causes tissue damage and subsequent loss of lung function. It is a multifactorial event in which respiratory infections are involved, but little is known about its dynamics. Objectives: The objective of our study was to determine the microbiome composition during an exacerbation event and post-stabilization. Methods: We conducted an observational analytical study of a cohort of 55 COPD patients in which 2 sputum samples (the first taken during an exacerbation event and the second during clinical post-stabilization) were submitted to 16s RNA ribosomal analysis by Illumina Miseq Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). The presence of respiratory viruses was also determined. Results: Our study found a stable microbiome composition in the post-stabilization sputum samples of COPD patients, and 4 additional microbiomes in samples taken during the exacerbation, 3 of which showed a marked dysbiosis by Haemophilus, Pseudomonas, and Serratia. The fourth exacerbation microbiome had a very similar composition to post-stabilization samples, but some pathogens such as Moraxella and respiratory viruses were also found. Conclusions: Our study reveals the main protagonists involved in lung microbiome dynamics during an exacerbation event and post-stabilization in COPD patients by NGS analysis.
Determinantes sociais no currículo médico
Authors: Semana da Diversidade da FMUSP Comissão Organizadora Da
Published: August 2019

O reconhecimento dos determinantes sociais é fundamental para promoção de uma assistência qualificada e ajustada à realidade dos indivíduos, bem como para o planejamento de políticas públicas e de medidas educacionais. Entretanto, ainda que a literatura científica evidencie esse como um dos pontos-chave para a efetividade do cuidado, os currículos programáticos de cursos da área da saúde historicamente apresentam lacunas acerca de tal temática, inviabilizando a formação de profissionais que ativamente relacionem os determinantes sociais à sua prática clínica. Nesse sentido, iniciativas do corpo discente se propõem a trazer ao ambiente universitário o debate sobre temas como sexualidade, identidade de gênero, racismo e desigualdades sociais, com intuito de promover uma formação crítica dos futuros profissionais, questionar o insuficiente conteúdo programático proposto pelas universidades e aproximar a comunidade civil dos espaços de produção do conhecimento.
Equity analysis of resource distribution for the Popular Pharmacy Program
Authors: Silva Maria Eduarda De Lima e , Almeida Aléssio Tony Cavalcanti de , Araújo Júnior Ignácio Tavares de
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the regional allocation of the resources from the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program, taking into account the relative availability of the program and the potential needs of the region. METHODS: Data from the National Health Survey of the Annual Report of Social Information and the administrative database of the program were used to create a non-parametric indicator of coverage using multiple data envelopment analysis technique. This indicator considers the relative availability of the program, taking into account equal access to equal needs (equity based on regional needs). The analysis of this indicator shows if the regions that most need pharmaceutical assistance are those that receive more resources from the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program. RESULTS: The states belonging to the richest regions of the country, Southeast and South, present wider relative coverage of the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program compared to poorer localities. In addition, the inequalities observed between locations are better explained by inefficiency in the transfer of resources to the basic component of pharmaceutical care than by the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program itself. According to the model, a 43.76% increase in the transfer to the basic component of pharmaceutical care would be required in order to improve equity, whereas the increase required by the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program is equivalent to 22.71%. CONCLUSIONS: Although the Brazilian Popular Pharmacy Program seeks to reduce the socioeconomic inequalities observed in access to pharmaceutical care, which integrates health care services, regional disparities in access to medicine persist. These regional differences are attributed mostly to allocation failures and problems in managing the conventional pharmaceutical care cycle provided through SUS pharmacies.
Role of LpL (Lipoprotein Lipase) in Macrophage Polarization In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Chang Hye Rim , Josefs Tatjana , Scerbo Diego , Gumaste Namrata , Hu Yunying , Huggins Lesley-Ann , Barrett Tessa J. , Chiang Stephanie S. , Grossman Jennifer , Bagdasarov Svetlana , Fisher Edward A. , Goldberg Ira J.
Published: August 2019

Objective:

Fatty acid uptake and oxidation characterize the metabolism of alternatively activated macrophage polarization in vitro, but the in vivo biology is less clear. We assessed the roles of LpL (lipoprotein lipase)-mediated lipid uptake in macrophage polarization in vitro and in several important tissues in vivo.

Approach and Results:

We created mice with both global and myeloid-cell specific LpL deficiency. LpL deficiency in the presence of VLDL (very low-density lipoproteins) altered gene expression of bone marrow–derived macrophages and led to reduced lipid uptake but an increase in some anti- and some proinflammatory markers. However, LpL deficiency did not alter lipid accumulation or gene expression in circulating monocytes nor did it change the ratio of Ly6C
high
/Ly6C
low
. In adipose tissue, less macrophage lipid accumulation was found with global but not myeloid-specific LpL deficiency. Neither deletion affected the expression of inflammatory genes. Global LpL deficiency also reduced the numbers of elicited peritoneal macrophages. Finally, we assessed gene expression in macrophages from atherosclerotic lesions during regression; LpL deficiency did not affect the polarity of plaque macrophages.

Conclusions:

The phenotypic changes observed in macrophages upon deletion of
Lpl
in vitro is not mimicked in tissue macrophages.
The Snow Leopard and Cultural Landscape in Contemporary Kazakhstan
Authors: White Kristopher D.
Published: August 2019

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is commonly seen in the cultural landscape within the Republic of Kazakhstan. This contrasts rather starkly with the endangered species’ presence on the natural landscape there. Three contemporary cultural landscape sightings of the snow leopard in Kazakhstan—the Almaty zoological park, the Kazakhstan 2030 strategy initiative, and the 2011 Asian Winter Games—are explored here. The positive imagery and symbolism linking the snow leopard to the Republic of Kazakhstan cements the non-human animal’s status as an unofficial state symbol. The borderlands of snow leopard landscapes, those spaces of cultural and natural environmental overlap, are vital for conservation efforts. Reincorporating non-human animals into social science research offers the opportunity for cultural landscape investigations. For the snow leopard, cultural landscape research may prove as important as traditional natural landscape research in Kazakhstan and throughout this majestic non-human animal’s territorial range.
Mapping French Laypeople’s Views on Nonhuman Animal Experimentation
Authors: Muñoz Sastre Maria Teresa , Sorum Paul Clay , Mullet Etienne
Published: August 2019

French positions regarding nonhuman animal experimentation were examined. A total of 163 participants were presented with 72 vignettes depicting an experimental protocol. They were composed according to a five-factor design: (a) the fate of the animal (e.g., was sacrificed for the purpose of further analyses), (b) environment in which the animal was raised, (c) main objective of the experiment (purely theoretical vs. therapeutic), (d) degree of pain inflicted, and (e) species involved (rabbit, coyote, or chimpanzee). Through cluster analysis of participants’ acceptability judgments, six qualitatively different positions were found. Four had already been described by observation of the functioning of animal ethics committees: Animals have Rights, Ethics in the name of Animals, Ethics in the name of Patients, and Ethics in the name of Science. Female participants held the Animals-have-Rights position three times more often than males. Male participants held an Ethics-in-the-name-of-Science position four times more often than females.
How Ethical Ideologies Relate to Public Attitudes Toward Nonhuman Animals: The Japanese Case
Authors: Su Bingtao , Koda Naoko , Martens Pim
Published: August 2019

How ethical ideologies relate to public attitudes toward nonhuman animals is an increasingly prominent topic, yet it has been largely unstudied, particularly in Asian countries such as Japan. Using the Ethics Position Questionnaire (EPQ), Animal Attitude Scale (AAS), and Animal Issue Scale (AIS) in the present study, we examined how ethical ideologies and human demographics relate to public attitudes toward animals from a Japanese cultural perspective. The results of a questionnaire (N = 900) distributed throughout Japan indicate that public attitudes toward animals were positively associated with idealism and negatively associated with relativism. These findings are similar to those from China, but partly in contrast with those from the United States, where relativism was unrelated to attitudes toward animals. Our findings add to a growing recognition of how individual philosophy relates to public attitudes toward animals in Asian countries.
Introduction: Assimilation and Representation in Medieval Theories of Cognition
Authors: Silva José Filipe , Thörnqvist Christina Thomsen
Published: August 2019

The articles in this issue are a selection of the papers presented at the conference Knowledge as Assimilation, held at the University of Helsinki on 9-11 June 2017. The conference was the result of a collaboration between two research groups that have been established in Finland and Sweden from 2013 onwards: the research project Rationality in Perception: Transformations of Mind and Cognition 1250-1550, funded by the European Research Council (2015-2020) and hosted by the University of Helsinki, and the research programme Representation and Reality: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives on the Aristotelian Tradition, funded by the Riksbankens jubileumsfond (2013-2019) and located at the University of Gothenburg.
Ensuring National Minorities’ Interests while Establishing Electoral Boundaries in Ukraine: The Example of the Hungarian National Minority
Authors: Dovhan Halyna
Published: August 2019

This article concerns ensuring national minorities’ interests while establishing electoral boundaries in Ukraine. Special attention is paid to the areas with a concentrated minority settlement. A Hungarian national minority resident in Transcarpathia is the subject of the research. Among the three basic laws of Ukraine that regulate presidential, local and parliamentary elections, only the law regulating parliamentary elections complies with the international requirements regarding the consideration of national minorities’ interests during delimitation of electoral borders. An electoral district in which majority of voters were Hungarians had been established before the 1998 parliamentary elections. But later, the Hungarian community was divided between three constituencies. Some comments and recommendations from the reports of observers from different international organizations have been elucidated. A review of law enforcement practice revealed that the long-lasting problem concerning the drawing of electoral boundaries in Transcarpathia has not yet been solved.
Species diversity and spatial distribution of Begonia L. (Begoniaceae) in the Daweishan Range, Yunnan Province, China

Authors: CHEN WEN-HONG , HUANG SU-HUA , AUNG AUNG , YUAN HUI-KUN , SHUI YU-MIN
Published: August 2019

Seven sections and 50 species and infraspecific taxa of Begonia have been recorded in the Daweishan Range of Yunnan Province, southwestern China. This work aims to analyze the relationships between their geographical distribution and ecology, review their floristic diversity, and elucidate the abundance and horticultural value of Begonia resources in this region.
A new species of the subgenus Tachycines (Tachycines) (Othoptera: Rhaphidophoridae) from Guizhou, China
Authors: HUANG SHIHUI , LUO CHANGQING
Published: August 2019

Adelung (1902) erected the genus Tachycines with Tachycines asynamorus as the type species. In this paper, a new species of the genus Tachycines, subgenus Tachycines, namely Tachycines (Tachycines) huaxi sp. nov., from Guizhou, China is described. This new species is similar to Tachycines (Tachycines) asynamorus. The morphological differentiation between the two species is discussed.
Morphological and morphometrical identification of Meloidogyne populations from various crop production areas in South Africa with emphasis on M. enterolobii
Authors: RASHIDIFARD MILAD , FOURIE HENDRIKA , DANEEL MIEKE STEFANIE , MARAIS MARIETTE
Published: August 2019

Accurate identification of Meloidogyne spp. is crucial and the first step to apply suitable management strategies to combat these nematode pests. Perineal-pattern morphology of female specimens is one of the most common characteristics used for identification. However, for some species various morphological characteristics are similar which makes it challenging to correctly identify species. In this study different morphological and morphometrical characteristics were used to identify 37 populations of Meloidogyne obtained during 2015 and 2016 from various crop production areas situated across different geographical regions in South Africa. A comprehensive study of females, males and second-stage juveniles (J2) of the 37 Meloidogyne populations isolated was conducted, revealing the presence of Meloidogyne enterolobii, M. hapla, M. incognita and M. javanica. Although three perineal-pattern characteristics proved to be useful in discriminating particularly between M. enterolobii and M. incognita females, most of the morphometric characters used to identify female, male and J2 individuals overlapped among the different species. Substantial intraspecies variation was also evident among different populations. The use of classical identification approaches alone could therefore not clearly distinguish among the 37 Meloidogyne populations studied. Therefore, the use of molecular techniques in combination with morphological and morphometrical analyses is suggested to be more accurate and reliable in discriminating between Meloidogyne spp.
On the identity of Tettigonia krugeri Massa from Libya with some remarks on variability of Tettigonia species (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae; Tettigoniinae)
Authors: MASSA BRUNO , TAGLIAVIA MARCELLO
Published: August 2019

Morphological and genetic data allowed the authors to resurrect the name Tettigonia krugeri Massa, 1998 as a valid species. It is currently known only from two specimens (one male and one female) collected in Cirenaica (Libya).
The Core Deficit of Classical Schizophrenia: Implications for Predicting the Functional Outcome of Psychotic Illness and Developing Effective Treatments
Authors: Liddle Peter F.
Published: August 2019

Many people suffering from psychotic illnesses experience persisting impairment of occupational and social function. Evidence assembled since the classical description of schizophrenia over a century ago indicates that both disorganization and impoverishment of mental activity are associated with persisting impairment. Longitudinal studies of young people at risk of schizophrenia reveal that both mental impoverishment and disorganization predict poor long-term outcome. These clinical features are related to cognitive impairments. Evidence from brain imaging indicates overlap in the brain abnormalities implicated in these phenomena, including impaired function of long-range connections between sensory cortex and the salience network, a network engaged in recruiting cerebral systems for processing of information salient to current circumstances.

The evidence suggests that the common features underlying these two groups of symptoms might reflect a core pathological process distinguishing nonaffective from affective psychosis. This pathological process might therefore justifiably be designated the “core deficit” of classical schizophrenia. To develop more effective treatments to prevent persisting disability, we require the ability to identify individuals at risk at an early stage. Recent studies provide pointers toward effective strategies for identifying cases at risk of poor outcome. Accumulating evidence confirms that appreciable potential for neuroplastic change in the brain persists into adult life. Furthermore, brain function can be enhanced by targeted neuromodulation treatments. We now have promising tools not only for investigating the psychological and neural mechanisms that underlie persisting functional impairment but also for identifying individuals at risk and for harnessing brain plasticity to improve treatment.
A Subpoena: The Other Exception to Confidentiality
Authors: Ordway Ann M. , Casasnovas Arielle F.
Published: August 2019

A good deal of attention is paid in counselor education programs to the significance of confidentiality and the rare categories of exception that would compel the counselor to break that sacred vow. The exceptions identified are danger to self, danger to others, and child abuse. In some states, additional mention is made of situations involving elder abuse. Rarely, however, do counselor educators discuss the impact of litigation on the sanctity of the counselor–client relationship and the ability of a subpoena to pierce the cloak of confidentiality that otherwise protects a client’s innermost thoughts and raw vulnerability. This article is an examination of the long arm of the court system and, by extension, the role of a subpoena as the often overlooked, other, exception to confidentiality. The effect of court involvement initiated either by the counselor’s client or by an opposing party on the counselor–client relationship should be clearly addressed in informed consent discussions and written documents to avoid unforeseen complications when a counselor receives and responds to a subpoena.
The Role of Family in Youth Opioid Misuse: A Literature Review
Authors: Kaur Lovdeep , Tadros Eman , Patton Rikki
Published: August 2019

Objective:

With the opioid epidemic reaching declared a public health emergency in recent years, a synthesis of recent knowledge outlining the impact of opioid use disorders on youth and families is needed. To this aim, this exploratory literature review examined how the role of family is discussed in research on youth opioid misuse, with the goal of acting as a springboard for further research and treatment development that could mitigate the negative impacts opioids are having on families and youth.

Method:

Peer-reviewed journal articles between 2008 and 2018 were accessed through PsycINFO in March 2018. A total of 279 unduplicated articles were identified through the search. Upon abstract and full-text review, a total of 21 articles met criteria for inclusion in the systematic review.

Findings:

Overall, the role of the family in adolescent opioid misuse was not commonly discussed in the literature, with 21 of 279 (7.5%) of articles meeting inclusion criteria for the current study. In the included articles, the following major themes were identified: (1) family factors affecting adolescent opioid misuse behavior and (2) family’s role in treatment of adolescent opioid misuse.

Conclusions:

The review evidences there is a relative paucity of literature on relational variables and youth opioid misuse. More practice-based scholarship, as well as more rigorous clinical research, is needed to inform future steps for clinical processes, policy, and research.
Advertising Education at a Crossroad
Authors: Lee Sang Yeal
Published: August 2019

The changes in the advertising industry are rapid and dizzying. The advertising industry is going through structural change and advertising education faces a daunting challenge in keeping up with the real world. Advertising educators must recognize the urgency of revising the curriculum to address this challenge. If not, while the industry transitions into a different chapter, advertising education will be left behind. This article discusses major changes in the advertising industry, and calls for thought leadership to bridge the gap between academia and the industry and to initiate proactive changes in advertising education.
A woman’s cause? Popular attitudes towards pension credits for childcare in Norway
Authors: Halrynjo Sigtona , Kitterød Ragni Hege , Pedersen Axel West
Published: August 2019

In many countries – including Norway – concerns about the persistent gender gap in pensions have led to the introduction of child credits that compensate mothers for losing accrued pension rights while they care for small children. In political debates child credits are typically framed as being unequivocally women-friendly. But, although they help to reduce the gender gap in pension income, they tend to discourage mothers’ paid work and favour couples with a gendered division of paid and unpaid work. This article uses survey data to investigate the extent to which the working age population in Norway supports the idea that parents (mothers) of pre-school children with low earnings should be compensated by the pension system. We examine whether the pattern of support is consistently gendered or whether there are internal cleavages among men and women according to socio-economic status and work-family adaptation. We find that, although both genders express positive attitudes, women are on average more inclined to support child credits than men, but with strong internal divisions. While less-educated women in families with a traditional division of labour constitute the most supportive group, highly-educated women in gender-equal families are as sceptical towards child credits as their male peers. Surprisingly, among both genders, we find that younger cohorts are as supportive as older cohorts.
Validation of a comprehensive computational fluid dynamics methodology to predict the direct injection process of gasoline sprays using Spray G experimental data
Authors: Paredi Davide , Lucchini Tommaso , D’Errico Gianluca , Onorati Angelo , Pickett Lyle , Lacey Joshua
Published: August 2019

A detailed prediction of injection and air–fuel mixing is fundamental in modern direct injection, spark-ignition engines to guarantee a stable and efficient combustion process and to minimize pollutant formation. Within this context, computational fluid dynamics simulations nowadays represent a powerful tool to understand the in-cylinder evolution of spray and air–fuel charge. To guarantee the accuracy of the adopted multidimensional spray sub-models, it is mandatory to validate the computed results against available experimental data under well-defined operating conditions. To this end, in this work, the authors proposed the calibration and validation of a comprehensive set of spray sub-models by means of the simulation of the Spray G experiment, available in the context of the engine combustion network. For a suitable validation of the proposed numerical setup in addition to the baseline condition, gasoline direct injection operating points typical of early injection with homogeneous operation, late injection with high ambient density and flash boiling with enhanced fuel evaporation were also simulated. Numerical computations were validated against a wide set of available experimental data by means of an accurate post-processing analysis taking into account axial liquid and vapor penetrations, gas-phase velocity between spray plumes, droplet size, plume liquid velocity, direction and mass distribution. Satisfactory results were achieved with the proposed setup, which is able to predict gasoline spray evolution under different operating conditions.
Toward predictive and computationally affordable Lagrangian–Eulerian modeling of spray–wall interaction
Authors: Torelli Roberto , Scarcelli Riccardo , Som Sibendu , Zhu Xiucheng , Lee Seong-Young , Naber Jeffrey , Markt David , Raessi Mehdi
Published: August 2019

The work presented in this article focuses on improving the understanding of spray–wall interaction phenomena and the predictivity of computational models for modern internal combustion engine–like conditions. Previous work from the authors highlighted some of the limitations of the currently available spray–wall interaction sub-models, especially those based on experimental observations carried out on single droplet impingement of non-hydrocarbon fluids. Previous experimental observations and direct numerical simulations provided unique qualitative and quantitative details that were leveraged to improve Lagrangian–Eulerian simulations of spray–wall interaction. In this work, Yarin and Weiss’ theory for droplet train impingements, as interpreted by Stanton and Rutland, was implemented in the CONVERGE software. A novel and mathematically rigorous calculation of the impingement frequency for Lagrangian parcels was proposed to replace the zero-droplet-spacing assumption present in the original model and improve the prediction of droplet splash. Preliminary testing and validation of the new formulation against experiments carried out in a constant volume vessel showed encouraging results. The feedback loop between experiments, Lagrangian–Eulerian simulations, and direct numerical simulations also motivated the investigation of the surface roughness model available in the Lagrangian–Eulerian framework. This part of the study pointed out the importance of correctly predicting the interaction between liquid and surrounding gas in the near-wall region. Overall, the results shown indicate that correctly capturing the pre-impingement physics and liquid–gas interaction, together with improving splash predictions, was key for improving the accuracy of Lagrangian–Eulerian computational fluid dynamics simulations of spray–wall impingement.
The Relationship Between Forgiveness, Bullying, and Cyberbullying in Adolescence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Quintana-Orts Cirenia , Rey Lourdes , Worthington Everett L.
Published: August 2019

The study of bullying in adolescence has received increased attention over the past several decades. A growing body of research highlights the role of forgiveness and its association with aggression. In this article, we systematically review published studies on the association among online and traditional bullying and forgiveness in adolescents. Systematic searches were conducted in PsycINFO, MEDLINE, PsycArticles, and Scopus databases. From a total of 1,093 studies, 637 were nonduplicated studies and 18 were eventually included. Together, these studies provided evidence that forgiveness and bullying behaviors are negatively related: Adolescents with higher forgiveness levels bully less. Similarly, forgiveness is negatively related to victimization: Adolescents with higher forgiveness show less victimization. Unforgiveness was positively related to traditional and online bullying. This relationship appears to be consistent beyond types of bullying, certain background characteristics, and forgiveness measures. These findings are discussed, and clinical implications and guidelines for future research are presented.
Inactivation of carboxyl terminus of Hsc70‐interacting protein prevents hypoxia‐induced pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells proliferation by reducing intracellular Ca2+ concentration
Authors: Dong Fang , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2019

Carboxyl terminus of Hsc70‐interacting protein (CHIP) is a 35‐kDa cytoplasmic protein expressed in human striated muscle, brain, aortic smooth muscle, endothelial cells, and other tissues. Studies have confirmed that CHIP regulates cell growth, apoptosis, cell phenotype, metabolism, neurodegeneration, etc. However, whether CHIP is involved in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) proliferation, a vital contributor to chronic hypoxia‐induced pulmonary hypertension (CHPH), remains unknown. In this study, we first evaluated CHIP expression in the pulmonary arteries (PAs) of CHPH model rats. Subsequently, by silencing CHIP, we investigated the effect of CHIP on hypoxia‐induced PASMC proliferation and the underlying mechanism. Our results showed that CHIP expression was upregulated in the PAs of CHPH model rats. Silencing CHIP significantly suppressed the hypoxia‐triggered promotion of proliferation, [Ca2+]i, store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE), and some regulators of SOCE such as TRPC1 and TRPC6 in cultured PASMCs. These results indicate that CHIP likely contributes to hypoxia‐induced PASMC proliferation by targeting the SOCE‐[Ca2+]i pathway through the regulation of TRPC1 and TRPC6 in the PASMCs. In conclusion, the findings of the current study clarify the role of CHIP in hypoxia‐induced PASMC proliferation.
Percentage of Foveal vs Total Macular Geographic Atrophy as a Predictor of Visual Acuity in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Bagheri Saghar , Lains Ines , Silverman Rebecca F. , Kim Ivana , Eliott Dean , Silva Rufino , Miller John , Husain Deeba , Miller Joan W. , Saad Leonide , Vavvas Demetrios G.
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

This article investigates the relationship between visual acuity (VA), total area of geographic atrophy (GA), and percentage of foveal GA.

Methods:

A multicenter, retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted of patients with GA due to age-related macular degeneration. Demographics, VA, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) images were collected. Using FAF images aided by SD-OCT, fovea-sparing status, GA pattern, total GA size, and percentage of GA covering the foveal area—within a 1.5-mm-diameter circle centered on the fovea centralis—were assessed. Univariable and multiple linear regression analyses were performed.

Results:

Fifty-four eyes (mean age, 78.7 ±7.7 years [SD], 60.0% female) were studied. Mean VA was 0.8 ± 0.6 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (Snellen equivalent 20/126 ± 20/80), mean total GA 8.8 ± 6.7 mm2, and mean percentage of foveal GA was 71.5 ± 30.9%. Of all assessed eyes, 48.2% (n = 26) presented with multifocal GA, and 18.5% (n = 10) had foveal sparing. Multiple regression analysis revealed that, controlling for age and GA pattern, the percentage of foveal GA presented a statistically significant association with VA (ß = 0.41, P = .004). No significant associations were observed with mean total GA size, while controlling for the same variables (ß = 0.010, P = .440).

Conclusions:

Percentage of foveal GA was significantly associated with VA impairment, although the same was not verified for total GA area. These findings suggest that percentage of foveal GA may represent a more useful tool for assessing the impact of GA on VA. Further validation is needed in larger cohorts.
Low iron promotes megakaryocytic commitment of megakaryocytic-erythroid progenitors in humans and mice
Authors: Xavier-Ferrucio Juliana , Scanlon Vanessa , Li Xiuqi , Zhang Ping-Xia , Lozovatsky Larisa , Ayala-Lopez Nadia , Tebaldi Toma , Halene Stephanie , Cao Chang , Fleming Mark D. , Finberg Karin E. , Krause Diane S.
Published: August 2019

Xavier-Ferrucio and colleagues elucidate the mechanism of thrombocytosis in iron deficiency anemia, using murine and human cell models to demonstrate that iron deficiency attenuates ERK signaling and biases the commitment of megakaryocyte-erythrocyte progenitors toward the megakaryocytic lineage.