bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of lipoprotein(a)- cholesterol expression in Bangladeshi adults with dyslipidemia
Authors: Biswas Puja , Yunus Fakir Md , Hossan Tareq , Ahmed Sohel
Published: November 2019

Lipoprotein(a)-cholesterol (Lp(a)-C), a low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-like particle is considered as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
 We aimed to investigate the association of Lp(a)-C expression with dyslipidemia among the Bangladeshi population and assess the relationship with cardiovascular risks. In this cross-sectional comparative study, a total of 180 urban males and females between ages 19-65 years were included who were enrolled in a hospital setting of Bangladesh. Participants were selected based on their total cholesterol (TC) level≥200 mg/dl, high density lipoprotein (HDL)-C<40 mg/dl, LDL-C≥140 mg/dl, and triacylglycerol (TG)≥150 mg/dl regardless of race, religion and socioeconomic status. Venous blood was collected from all participants and analyzed.
 Further, participants’ socio-demographics and body mass index (BMI) were collected. Expression of Lp(a)-C was detected in 22.86% patients with desirable levels (<14 mg/dL) of serum Lp(a)-C. This study suggests that the prevalence of hyperlipidemia and hypertriglyceridemia is high in the Bangladeshi population. Males were found to have lower HDL-C and higher TG than females. and, similar to other ethnic groups, a negative correlation between BMI and HDL-C was found in this population. In addition, Lp(a)-C had a positive correlation with TG which may recommend routine clinical investigation of Lp(a)-C as a biomarker for CVD risk.
An assessment of risk of iodine deficiency among pregnant women in Sarawak, Malaysia2018
Authors: Kuay Lim Kuang , Chin Tan Beng , Kassim Mohd Shaiful Azlan , Mahmud Nur Azna , Salle Ruhaya , Man Cheong Siew , Wong Norazizah Ibrahim , Ying Chan Ying , Aris Tahir
Published: November 2019

Previous findings from a state-wide Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) study among pregnant women (PW) in Sarawak indicated that PW are at risk of IDD and further assessment is needed. This paper describes the methodology used in conducting this study for an assessment of risk of iodine deficiency among pregnant women in Sarawak, Malaysia. A total of 30 maternal child health care clinics (MCHCs) were selected using probability proportional to population size (PPS) sampling technique.  The PW sample size was calculated based on 95% confidence interval (CI), relative precision of 5%, design effect of 2, anticipated IDD prevalence of  65.0% and non-response rate of 20%. Thus, the total sample size required was 750 (25 respondents per selected MCHC). The WHO Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) surveys approach was used to randomly select the first respondent and subsequent respondents were chosen until the required number of PW was met. The required data were obtained through: face-to-face interviews (socio-demographic and food frequency questionnaire), clinical assessments (thyroid size, and hyper/hypothyroidism) and biochemical analysis (urine and blood serum). A total of 677 PW responded in the study with a response rate of 90.2%. Majority of the PW were at second gravida, aged 25-29 years old and of Malay ethnicity. The methodology used in this study was based on international guidelines which may provide state’s estimates. All the necessary steps were taken into consideration to ensure valid and reliable findings on current iodine status among PW.
Endothelin: 30 Years From Discovery to Therapy
Authors: Barton Matthias , Yanagisawa Masashi
Published: November 2019

Discovered in 1987 as a potent endothelial cell–derived vasoconstrictor peptide, endothelin-1 (ET-1), the predominant member of the endothelin peptide family, is now recognized as a multifunctional peptide with cytokine-like activity contributing to almost all aspects of physiology and cell function. More than 30 000 scientific articles on endothelin were published over the past 3 decades, leading to the development and subsequent regulatory approval of a new class of therapeutics—the endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs). This article reviews the history of the discovery of endothelin and its role in genetics, physiology, and disease. Here, we summarize the main clinical trials using ERAs and discuss the role of endothelin in cardiovascular diseases such as arterial hypertension, preecclampsia, coronary atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (MINOCA) caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), Takotsubo syndrome, and heart failure. We also discuss how endothelins contributes to diabetic kidney disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, as well as cancer, immune disorders, and allograft rejection (which all involve ET
A
autoantibodies), and neurological diseases. The application of ERAs, dual endothelin receptor/angiotensin receptor antagonists (DARAs), selective ET
B
agonists, novel biologics such as receptor-targeting antibodies, or immunization against ET
A
receptors holds the potential to slow the progression or even reverse chronic noncommunicable diseases. Future clinical studies will show whether targeting endothelin receptors can prevent or reduce disability from disease and improve clinical outcome, quality of life, and survival in patients.
Guidelines for Transparency on Gut Microbiome Studies in Essential and Experimental Hypertension
Authors: Marques Francine Z. , Jama Hamdi A. , Tsyganov Kirill , Gill Paul A. , Rhys-Jones Dakota , Muralitharan Rikeish R. , Muir Jane , Holmes Andrew , Mackay Charles R.
Published: November 2019

Hypertension is a complex and modifiable condition in which environmental factors contribute to both onset and progression. Recent evidence has accumulated for roles of diet and the gut microbiome as environmental factors in blood pressure regulation. However, this is complex because gut microbiomes are a unique feature of each individual reflecting that individual’s developmental and environmental history creating caveats for both experimental models and human studies. Here, we describe guidelines for conducting gut microbiome studies in experimental and clinical hypertension. We provide a complete guide for authors on proper design, analyses, and reporting of gut microbiota/microbiome and metabolite studies and checklists that can be used by reviewers and editors to support robust reporting and interpretation. We discuss factors that modulate the gut microbiota in animal (eg, cohort, controls, diet, developmental age, housing, sex, and models used) and human studies (eg, blood pressure measurement and medication, body mass index, demographic characteristics including age, cultural identification, living structure, sex and socioeconomic environment, and exclusion criteria). We also provide best practice advice on sampling, storage of fecal/cecal samples, DNA extraction, sequencing methods (including metagenomics and 16S rRNA), and computational analyses. Finally, we discuss the measurement of short-chain fatty acids, metabolites produced by the gut microbiota, and interpretation of data. These guidelines should support better transparency, reproducibility, and translation of findings in the field of gut microbiota/microbiome in hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular Risk and Atherosclerosis Progression in Hypertensive Persons Treated to Blood Pressure Targets
Authors: Gronewold Janine , Kropp Rene , Lehmann Nils , Stang Andreas , Mahabadi Amir A. , Kälsch Hagen , Weimar Christian , Dichgans Martin , Budde Thomas , Moebus Susanne , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Erbel Raimund , Hermann Dirk M.
Published: November 2019

Arterial hypertension promotes atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. We evaluated how cardiovascular risk and atherosclerosis progression are associated with blood pressure, antihypertensive treatment, and treatment efficacy. In 3555 participants of the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall study without previous cardiovascular disease (mean±SD; age, 58.9±7.6 years, 46.9% men), we analyzed associations of baseline antihypertensive treatment efficacy (normotension without antihypertensives, normotension with antihypertensives, hypertension without antihypertensives, hypertension with antihypertensives, based on 140/90 mmHg cutoffs) with incident coronary artery calcification (CAC) and CAC progression during 5-year-follow-up and with incident cardiovascular events during 13.5-year-follow-up. We further evaluated associations of incident arterial hypertension and efficacy of new antihypertensive treatment at the 5-year-follow-up with subsequent cardiovascular events. At baseline, 1706 participants had normotension without antihypertensives, 553 normotension with antihypertensives, 786 hypertension without antihypertensives, and 510 hypertension with antihypertensives. Six hundred forty-seven participants experienced rapid CAC progression. One hundred seven, 132, and 249 had incident stroke, coronary event, and cardiovascular event, respectively. Compared with normotensives without antihypertensives, normotensives with antihypertensives had an elevated stroke (hazard ratio, 2.33 [95% CI, 1.19–4.55]), coronary (2.04 [95% CI, 1.20–3.45]), and cardiovascular (2.23 [95% CI, 1.48–3.36]) risk, and increased baseline CAC, but not increased CAC progression. Participants without hypertension at baseline, who were newly hypertensive but achieved normotension with antihypertensives at the 5-year-follow-up, again exhibited elevated stroke (4.80 [95% CI, 1.38–16.70]) and cardiovascular (2.99 [95% CI, 1.25–7.16]) risk, whereas coronary risk was less elevated (2.24 [95% CI, 0.70–7.18]). Normotensives with antihypertensives have an elevated cardiovascular risk. They are characterized by elevated baseline CAC but show no signs of increased CAC progression.
Primary Aldosteronism and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Buffolo Fabrizio , Li Qifu , Monticone Silvia , Heinrich Daniel A. , Mattei Alessio , Pieroni Jacopo , Mei Mei , Yang Shumin , Hu Ya-Hui , Yang Mei-Chen , Sabbadin Chiara , Pizzolo Francesca , Giacchetti Gilberta , Fallo Francesco , Veglio Franco , Reincke Martin , Wu Vin-Cent , Mulatero Paolo
Published: November 2019

The association between primary aldosteronism (PA) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been a matter of debate. 2016 Endocrine Society guideline recommends screening for PA all hypertensive patients with OSA. We designed a multicenter, multiethnic, cross-sectional study to evaluate the prevalence of PA in patients with OSA and the prevalence of OSA in unselected patients with PA. Two hundred and three patients with OSA (102 whites and 101 Chinese) were screened for PA, and 207 patients with PA (104 whites, 100 Chinese, and 3 of African descent) were screened for OSA by cardiorespiratory polygraphy. Eighteen patients with OSA (8.9%) had PA (11.8% of white and 5.9% of Chinese ethnicity). In patients without other indications for PA screening, the prevalence of PA dropped to 1.5%. The prevalence of OSA in patients with PA was 67.6%, consistent in both white and Chinese patients. A correlation between aldosterone levels and apnea/hypopnea index was observed in white patients with PA (
R
2
=0.225,
P
=0.016) but not in Chinese patients. Multinomial logistic regression confirmed a significant and independent association between plasma aldosterone levels and moderate to severe OSA diagnosis in white patients (odds ratio, 1.002;
P
=0.002). In conclusion, aldosterone levels may contribute to the severity of OSA in white patients with hyperaldosteronism, but patients with OSA are not at high risk of PA. Results of the present study challenge the current recommendation of the Endocrine Society guideline that all patients with OSA should be screened for PA, irrespective of the grade of hypertension.
Central EP3 (E Prostanoid 3) Receptors Mediate Salt-Sensitive Hypertension and Immune Activation
Authors: Xiao Liang , Itani Hana A. , do Carmo Luciana Simao , Carver Lucas S. , Breyer Richard M. , Harrison David G.
Published: November 2019

We recently identified a pathway underlying immune activation in hypertension. Proteins oxidatively modified by reactive isoLG (isolevuglandin) accumulate in dendritic cells (DCs). PGE
2
(Prostaglandin E2) has been implicated in the inflammation associated with hypertension. We hypothesized that PGE
2
via its EP (E prostanoid) 3 receptor contributes to DC activation in hypertension. EP3
−/−
mice and wild-type littermates were exposed to sequential hypertensive stimuli involving an initial 2-week exposure to the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N
ω
-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride in drinking water, followed by a 2-week washout period, and a subsequent 4% high-salt diet for 3 weeks. In wild-type mice, this protocol increased systolic pressure from 123±2 to 148±8 mm Hg (
P
<0.05). This was associated with marked renal inflammation and a striking accumulation of isoLG adducts in splenic DCs. However, the increases in blood pressure, renal T-cell infiltration, and DC isoLG formation were completely prevented in EP3
−/−
mice. Similar protective effects were also observed in wild-type mice that received intracerebroventricular injection of a lentiviral vector encoding shRNA targeting the EP3 receptor. Further, in vitro experiments indicated that PGE
2
also acts directly on DCs via its EP1 receptors to stimulate intracellular isoLG formation. Together, these findings provide new insight into how EP receptors in both the central nervous system and peripherally on DCs promote inflammation in salt-induced hypertension.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of White Matter Lesions in Tibetan Patients Without Acute Stroke
Authors: Jin Haiqiang , Ding Zhijie , Lian Siqing , Zhao Yuhua , He Shihua , Zhou Lewei , Zhuoga Cidan , Wang Huali , Xu Jun , Du Ailian , Yan Guiying , Sun Yongan
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose—

Studies on the prevalence and risk factors of white matter lesions (WMLs) in Tibetans living at high altitudes are scarce. We conducted this study to determine the prevalence and risks of WMLs in Tibetan patients without or with nonacute stroke.

Methods—

We undertook a retrospective analysis of medical records of patients treated at the People’s Hospital of Tibetan Autonomous Region and identified a total of 301 Tibetan patients without acute stroke. WML severity was graded by the Fazekas Scale. We assessed the overall and age-specific prevalence of WMLs and analyzed associations between WMLs and related factors with univariate and multivariate methods.

Results—

Of the 301 patients, 87 (28.9%) had peripheral vertigo, 83 (27.3%) had primary headache, 52 (17.3%) had a history of stroke, 36 (12.0%) had an anxiety disorder, 29 (9.6%) had epilepsy, 12 (4.0%) had infections of the central nervous system, and 3 (1.0%) had undetermined diseases. WMLs were present in 245 (81.4%) patients, and 54 (17.9%) were younger than 40 years. Univariate analysis showed that age, history of cerebral infarction, hypertension, the thickness of the common carotid artery intima, and plaque within the intracarotid artery were related risks for WMLs. Ordered logistic analysis showed that age, history of cerebral ischemic stroke, hypertension, male sex, and atrial fibrillation were associated with WML severity.

Conclusions—

Risk factors for WMLs appear similar for Tibetans residing at high altitudes and individuals living in the plains. Further investigations are needed to determine whether Tibetans residing at high altitudes have a higher burden of WMLs than inhabitants of the plains.
A Simple, Biologically Plausible Feature Detector for Language Acquisition
Authors: Endress Ansgar D.
Published: November 2019

Language has a complex grammatical system we still have to understand computationally and biologically. However, some evolutionarily ancient mechanisms have been repurposed for grammar so that we can use insight from other taxa into possible circuit-level mechanisms of grammar. Drawing upon recent evidence for the importance of disinhibitory circuits across taxa and brain regions, I suggest a simple circuit that explains the acquisition of core grammatical rules used in 85% of the world's languages: grammatical rules based on sameness/difference relations. This circuit acts as a sameness detector. “Different” items are suppressed through inhibition, but presenting two “identical” items leads to inhibition of inhibition. The items are thus propagated for further processing. This sameness detector thus acts as a feature detector for a grammatical rule. I suggest that having a set of feature detectors for elementary grammatical rules might make language acquisition feasible based on relatively simple computational mechanisms.
Vestibular Stimulation Modulates Neural Correlates of Own-body Mental Imagery
Authors: Klaus Manuel P. , Wyssen Gerda C. , Frank Sebastian M. , Malloni Wilhelm M. , Greenlee Mark W. , Mast Fred W.
Published: November 2019

There is growing evidence that vestibular information is not only involved in reflexive eye movements and the control of posture but it also plays an important role in higher order cognitive processes. Previous behavioral research has shown that concomitant vestibular stimuli influence performance in tasks that involve imagined self-rotations. These results suggest that imagined and perceived body rotations share common mechanisms. However, the nature and specificity of these effects remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the neural mechanisms underlying this vestibulocognitive interaction. Participants (n = 20) solved an imagined self-rotation task during caloric vestibular stimulation. We found robust main effects of caloric vestibular stimulation in the core region of the vestibular network, including the rolandic operculum and insula bilaterally, and of the cognitive task in parietal and frontal regions. Interestingly, we found an interaction of stimulation and task in the left inferior parietal lobe, suggesting that this region represents the modulation of imagined body rotations by vestibular input. This result provides evidence that the inferior parietal lobe plays a crucial role in the neural integration of mental and physical body rotation.
Possessor Extraction in Colloquial English: Evidence for Successive Cyclicity and Cyclic Linearization
Authors: Davis Colin P.
Published: November 2019

This article describes and analyzes possessor extraction (PE) in English, a restricted possibility in the colloquial language of some speakers. I argue that the complexities of this phenomenon reveal evidence for the Cyclic Linearization theory of Spell-Out (e.g., Fox and Pesetsky 2005), which constrains English PE by interacting with a (phase-level) requirement to keep the possessor and the possessive D adjacent at PF (e.g., Gavruseva and Thornton 2001). These factors prevent such PE from succeeding unless the possessum is stranded in a clause edge, among other restrictions. This analysis entails the nonphasehood of DP, clarifies the derivation of that’s-relatives, reveals some linearization constraints on stranding, and suggests that expletive there originates in vP.
On Adjoined Possessors
Authors: Bárány András , Nikolaeva Irina
Published: November 2019

External and internal possessors differ from each other in several properties. In contrast to internal possessors, external possessors do not form a constituent with the possessed noun and can participate in clause-level processes such as verb agreement and switch-reference. In this squib, we discuss “intermediate” possessors with both internal and external properties. In Tundra Nenets (Uralic), such possessors form a syntactic constituent with the possessed noun but show different types of clause-level behavior. They can bind and control out of their host DP and participate in an obviation system, a consequence of the possessor being adjoined to the host DP.
Novel method of intraoperative liver tumour localisation with indocyanine green and near-infrared imaging
Authors: Lim HJ , Chiow AKH , Lee LS , Tan SS , Goh BKP , Koh YX , Chan CY , Lee SY
Published: November 2019

INTRODUCTION Fluorescence imaging (FI) with indocyanine green (ICG) is increasingly implemented as an intraoperative navigation tool in hepatobiliary surgery to identify hepatic tumours. This is useful in minimally invasive hepatectomy, where gross inspection and palpation are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety and optimal timing of using ICG for tumour localisation in patients undergoing hepatic resection. METHODS From 2015 to 2018, a prospective multicentre study was conducted to evaluate feasibility and safety of ICG in tumour localisation following preoperative administration of ICG either on Day 0–3 or Day 4–7. RESULTS Among 32 patients, a total of 46 lesions were resected: 23 were hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), 12 were colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) and 11 were benign lesions. ICG FI identified 38 (82.6%) lesions prior to resection. The majority of HCCs were homogeneous fluorescing lesions (56.6%), while CLRM were homogeneous (41.7%) or rim-enhancing (33.3%). The majority (75.0%) of the lesions not detected by ICG FI were in cirrhotic livers. Most (84.1%) of ICG-positive lesions detected were < 1 cm deep, and half of the lesions ≥ 1 cm in depth were not detected. In cirrhotic patients with malignant lesions, those given ICG on preoperative Day 0−3 and Day 4−7 had detection rates of 66.7% and 91.7%, respectively. There were no adverse events. CONCLUSION ICG FI is a safe and feasible method to assist tumour localisation in liver surgery. Different tumours appear to display characteristic fluorescent patterns. There may be no disadvantage of administering ICG closer to the operative date if it is more convenient, except in patients with liver cirrhosis.
A review of umbilical venous catheter-related complications at a tertiary neonatal unit in Singapore
Authors: Goh SSM , Kan SY , Bharadwaj S , Poon WB
Published: November 2019

INTRODUCTION Umbilical venous catheters (UVCs), commonly inserted in neonates for vascular access, are not without complications. METHODS A single-centre retrospective cohort study that reviewed complications related to UVC insertion in neonates was conducted in a tertiary neonatal unit in Singapore from January 2016 to July 2017. Ideal UVC position was defined as catheter tip within 0.5 cm above or below the diaphragm. Catheter-related sepsis was defined as clinical or biochemical abnormalities suggesting any new-onset or worsening sepsis 72 hours before or after removal of UVCs, with or without positive culture. Catheter-associated bloodstream infection (CABSI) was defined as positive microbiological growth in one or more blood cultures obtained from a symptomatic infant up to two days after UVC placement or within 48 hours of catheter removal. RESULTS 108 patients had UVC insertions. Mean gestational age and birth weight were 30.4 ± 4.0 weeks and 1,536.2 g ± 788.9 g, respectively. Mean UVC duration was 6.6 days. The UVC was in an ideal position in 27 (25.0%), deep in 13 (12.0%) and short in 35 (32.4%) neonates. One-third of the UVCs (n = 33) were malpositioned. Catheter-related sepsis was observed in 16 (14.8%) neonates, with 5 (4.6%) having CABSI. The most common organism was coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Other complications include peritoneal extravasation in 3 (2.8%) patients, with two requiring surgical intervention. Venous thrombosis occurred in 2 (1.9%) neonates and was managed conservatively. CONCLUSION Although complication rates were in line with international norms, UVCs were associated with serious complications and should be judiciously used.
Sporolithon amadoi sp. nov. (Sporolithales, Rhodophyta), a new rhodolith-forming non-geniculate coralline alga from offshore the northwestern Gulf of Mexico and Brazil

Authors: RICHARDS JOSEPH L. , BAHIA RICARDO G. , JESIONEK MICHEL B. , FREDERICQ SUZANNE
Published: November 2019

DNA sequence analysis of plastid-encoded psbA and rbcL loci, and nuclear-encoded LSU rDNA of rhodolith-forming specimens of Sporolithales from Brazil and the northwestern Gulf of Mexico reveal that they belong to an unnamed species of Sporolithon (Sporolithaceae). Sporolithon amadoi sp. nov. is morpho-anatomically characterized by a vegetative thallus reaching more than 20 cell layers, a tetrasporophyte with tetrasporangial sori slightly raised above the thallus surface that become overgrown and buried after spore release, and by cruciately divided tetrasporangia with pores surrounded by 9–13 rosette cells. Since these morpho-anatomical features are shared with some other Sporolithon species, identification of this species can only be confirmed by DNA sequences.
A new species of Neidiomorpha (Bacillariophyceae) from Dianshan Lake in Shanghai, China

Authors: LUO FEN , YANG QI , GUO KAIJUAN , LIU TENGTENG , WANG QUANXI , YOU QINGMIN
Published: November 2019

A new diatom species, Neidiomorpha dianshaniana sp. nov., found in Dianshan Lake in Shanghai, China, is described herein. The morphology of N. dianshaniana has been documented by light and scanning electron microscopy. Neidiomorpha dianshaniana valves are elliptical in outline with rostrate apices. Raphe is almost straight and filiform. The axial area is narrow and linear. The central area is small, round to transversely elliptical or irregular. Striae are slightly radiate and almost parallel near the apices. Puncta are arranged in undulating longitudinal rows. Neidiomorpha dianshaniana’s most visible feature is its lack of central constriction, in which respect it differs from the three other species in the genus Neidiomorpha.
Begonia medeiroii (Begoniaceae), a new species endemic to Santa Catarina, southern Brazil

Authors: FUNEZ LUÍS ADRIANO , JARAMILLO JULIO CESAR , DRECHSLER-SANTOS ELISANDRO RICARDO
Published: November 2019

We describe here Begonia medeiroii, a narrow endemic species from the Atlantic Rainforest. The conservation status of this species was assessed as critically endangered according to IUCN criteria. This species resembles to B. catharinensis and B. hirtella in some characteristics, differing among other features due the presence of adventitious vegetative buds on the adaxial surface of the leaves.
Revision of the Australian planthopper genus Chidaea Emeljanov with a redescription of Cixius sidnicus Stål, 1859 (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Fulgoromorpha: Cixiidae)
Authors: LÖCKER BIRGIT , HOLZINGER WERNER E.
Published: November 2019

As part of the ongoing revision of the Australian Cixiidae, here we revise the endemic genus Chidaea Emeljanov, 2000. Examination of the holotype of Cixius sidnicus Stål, 1859 revealed that it is not congeneric with Cixius nervosus (Linnaeus, 1758) but belongs to the hitherto monotypic genus Chidaea resulting in the new combination Chidaea sidnicus (Stål, 1859). Chidaea dayi Emeljanov, 2000 is redescribed and thirteen new species are described: Chidaea algida sp. nov., Ch. armidalensis sp. nov., Ch. belairensis sp. nov., Ch. bobadeenensis sp. nov., Ch. carinata sp. nov., Ch. crassa sp. nov., Ch. dickinsonorum sp. nov., Ch. etelis sp. nov., Ch. kimbaensis sp. nov., Ch. orangensis sp. nov., Ch. pulyonna sp. nov., Ch. punctata sp. nov., and Ch. wilarra sp. nov. An identification key to species of Chidaea and to Australian genera of Cixiini is presented. Host plant relationships and distribution are discussed. Chidaea is endemic to Australia and occurs in all states and territories apart from the Northern Territory.
Description of two new species of Progonyleptoidellus (Opiliones: Gonyleptidae), with a cladistic analysis of the genus, an overview of relationships in the K92 group, and taxonomic notes on Deltaspidium
Authors: BENEDETTI ALÍPIO R. , PINTO-DA-ROCHA RICARDO
Published: November 2019

As part of an ongoing revision and cladistic analysis of the “K92 clade” (Gonyleptidae), the Brazilian genus Progonyleptoidellus Piza, 1940 is revised and two new species from São Paulo State are described: P. bocaina sp. nov. and P. picinguaba sp. nov. A cladistic analysis of the genus was performed using these two new species plus the three previously described species of the genus [P. fuscopictus (B. Soares, 1942); P. orguensis (Soares & Soares, 1954); and P. striatus (Roewer, 1913)], and 25 more additional gonyleptoid outgroup species, most being representatives of the K92 clade. The data matrix is composed of 109 characters: three from the ocularium, 24 from the dorsal scutum, six from the free tergites, nine from the pedipalp, 41 from the legs and 26 from male genitalia. The genus Progonyleptoidellus was recovered as monophyletic only with the exclusion of P. orguensis and was supported on the basis of only one exclusive synapomorphy: presence of dry-marks on sulci of dorsal scutum. Based on the cladistic analysis, P. orguensis was reallocated in Deltaspidium Roewer, 1927, herein considered a senior synonym of Adhynastes Roewer, 1930, and two new combinations are proposed: Deltaspidium orguense (Soares & Soares, 1954) and Deltaspidium tenue (Roewer, 1930). Diagnoses are given for Progonyleptoidellus, the previously described species, (P. fuscopictus and P. striatus) and the two new species.
Integrative taxonomy reveals first country record of Hyalinobatrachium
mondolfii Señaris and Ayarzagüena 2001, and distribution range extensions for Cochranella nola Harvey 1996, and Rulyrana spiculata Duellman 1976 (Anura: Centrolenidae) in Peru
Authors: CHÁVEZ GERMÁN , PRADEL RENZO , CATENAZZI ALESSANDRO
Published: November 2019

We used an integrative taxonomy approach to investigate the taxonomic identity of several populations of glassfrogs from Peru, which are notoriously challenging to identify due to their overall similarity in morphology and coloration. We relied on comparisons of morphology, bioacoustics, and partial fragments of 16S rRNA DNA sequences. We report for the first time the presence of Hyalinobatrachium mondolfii in Peru, being this the southernmost locality known for the species. Likewise, we update and extend the distribution ranges of Rulyrana spiculata and Cochranella nola in the Andes of Peru, provide a 16S sequence of a topotype of R. spiculata, and confirm its presence in Bolivia. For all three species, we increase the current knowledge on their geographic distribution and genetic and phenotypic variation.
PERSIANN Dynamic Infrared–Rain Rate Model (PDIR) for High-Resolution, Real-Time Satellite Precipitation Estimation
Authors: Nguyen Phu , Shearer Eric J. , Ombadi Mohammed , Gorooh Vesta Afzali , Hsu Kuolin , Sorooshian Soroosh , Logan William S. , Ralph Marty
Published: November 2019

Precipitation measurements with high spatiotemporal resolution are a vital input for hydrometeorological and water resources studies; decision-making in disaster management; and weather, climate, and hydrological forecasting. Moreover, real-time precipitation estimation with high precision is pivotal for the monitoring and managing of catastrophic hydroclimate disasters such as flash floods, which frequently transpire after extreme rainfall. While algorithms that exclusively use satellite infrared data as input are attractive owing to their rich spatiotemporal resolution and near-instantaneous availability, their sole reliance on cloud-top brightness temperature (Tb) readings causes underestimates in wet regions and overestimates in dry regions—this is especially evident over the western contiguous United States (CONUS). We introduce an algorithm, the Precipitation Estimations from Remotely Sensed Information Using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN) Dynamic Infrared–Rain rate model (PDIR), which utilizes climatological data to construct a dynamic (i.e., laterally shifting) Tb–rain rate relationship that has several notable advantages over other quantitative precipitation-estimation algorithms and noteworthy skill over the western CONUS. Validation of PDIR over the western CONUS shows a promising degree of skill, notably at the annual scale, where it performs well in comparison to other satellite-based products. Analysis of two extreme landfalling atmospheric rivers show that solely IR-based PDIR performs reasonably well compared to other IR- and PMW-based satellite rainfall products, marking its potential to be effective in real-time monitoring of extreme storms. This research suggests that IR-based algorithms that contain the spatiotemporal richness and near-instantaneous availability needed for rapid natural hazards response may soon contain the skill needed for hydrologic and water resource applications.
Reflex and reflective testing practice in Clinical Biochemistry in the United Kingdom – a national survey
Authors: McKeeman Gareth C , Hall Sally L , Freedman Danielle B
Published: November 2019

Background/aims

The addition of further tests to patient samples, whether by reflex (automated) methods or reflectively after result review, remains an important function of the diagnostic laboratory. This can assist clinicians with interpretation of results and aid further management. We aimed to investigate how this is performed within Clinical Biochemistry laboratories across the United Kingdom (UK).

Methods

A questionnaire, consisting of 16 clinical scenarios, was circulated to Clinical Biochemistry laboratories across the UK via the Association for Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine (ACB) office. The survey sought to examine opinion on what tests are considered reflex and reflective, which staff members are involved in addition of further tests, whether clinicians are contacted and how abnormal results are handled.

Results

Responses were received from 74 laboratories, and data were compiled for each scenario surveyed. The majority of laboratories are adding calcium and magnesium, reflectively, to confirm hyperkalaemia or hypocalcaemia, and a number of additional endocrine tests are also commonly performed in particular scenarios. However, there are variations in what is regarded as reflex and reflective testing, in how this testing is conducted within the laboratory and in the level of communication with the requesting clinician.

Discussion

We present the consensus views of the survey participants for a number of commonly used additional tests within Clinical Biochemistry and a discussion on current reflex and reflective testing practice based on the survey results and evidence, where it exists. There is a need for harmonization and national guidance in this area.
Ramifications of variability in sex hormone-binding globulin measurement by different immunoassays on the calculation of free testosterone
Authors: Adaway Joanne , Keevil Brian , Miller Annmarie , Monaghan Phillip J , Merrett Nicola , Owen Laura
Published: November 2019

Objective

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein which binds hormones such as testosterone. Around 97% of circulating testosterone is bound to SHBG or albumin and is therefore biologically unavailable; 2–3% of testosterone is free. Free testosterone is very technically challenging to quantify; in order to circumvent this problem, equations using testosterone and SHBG are used to estimate free testosterone. We decided to determine the effect of using different SHBG immunoassays on calculated free testosterone results.

Design

Anonymized surplus serum samples were analysed for SHBG on four different immunoassay platforms (Abbott Architect, Roche, Beckman and Siemens). The SHBG results were used to generate a Vermeulen calculated free testosterone.

Results

Beckman Access and Siemens Centaur both gave results close to the overall mean. Roche gave the highest SHBG concentrations with Abbott Architect producing the lowest results. Abbott Architect gave the highest calculated free testosterone results, followed by Beckman. Roche gave the lowest results. Sixty-five per cent of male samples had low calculated free testosterone and 27.5% of the females had high calculated free testosterone using the SHBG from the Abbott assay compared with 69% low male calculated free testosterone and 20% high female calculated free testosterone with the Roche assay.

Conclusion

Our results have shown significant differences in SHBG results produced by different analysers and subsequently the calculated free testosterone, which may affect result interpretation if method-specific reference ranges for calculated free testosterone are not used. Care should be taken to ensure reference ranges are appropriate for the analyser used to avoid misdiagnosis of hypo or hyperandrogenism, and ensure patients get the most appropriate treatment.
Opting Out of the Social Contract: Tax Morale and Evasion
Authors: Castañeda Néstor , Doyle David , Schwartz Cassilde
Published: November 2019

We examine the individual-level determinants of tax morale in low-capacity states, specifically Latin American countries, where the social contract is often perceived as fractured. We argue that individuals in such states perceive the social contract as an agreement to which they can opt in or opt out. Those who choose to opt out prefer to substitute state-provided goods for private providers, rather than pay for public goods through taxes or free ride to receive those goods. Through a list experiment conducted in Mexico City, we demonstrate that willingness to evade taxes is highest when individuals have stepped outside of the social contract. More traditional indicators of reciprocity—such as socioeconomic status and perceptions of corruption—are not significant. We bolster our experimental results with observational data from 17 Latin American cities; those with access to employer-sponsored insurance are more willing to evade tax.
Is Karl Barth a Liberation Theologian? New Perspectives on Barth in Asia
Authors: Moe David Thang
Published: November 2019

Because of his methodology grounded in “Christology from above,” Barth is often seen as a theologian of revelation, not as a liberation theologian. This article contends that an authentic liberation theology is grounded in both “Christology from above and below.” The article argues that, although Barth’s writings chronologically preceded the birth of liberation theology as a major expression of Majority World theology, he can be hermeneutically reconsidered as a “political liberation theologian” in our contemporary contexts. The article justifies new perspectives on seeing Barth as a political liberation theologian by looking at his Christological models of pastoral advocacy for grassroots communities in Safenwil village, his theo-political hermeneutics of the Barmen Declaration against Nazism, and his liberative hermeneutics of church identity and ethics. The article then brings Barth into dialogue with Aloysius Pieris, who extensively writes Asian liberation and political theology. Using dialectical dialogue as a methodology, the article compares and contrasts Barth with Pieris by synthesizing how each theologian complements what the other fails to say, rather than how one competes the other.
Identifying the Early Warnings of Currency Crisis in India
Authors: Mohana Rao Balaga , Padhi Puja
Published: November 2019

We empirically investigate the recent history of currency crises (stress periods) and the factors influencing their likelihood in India. This study aims at constructing an early warning system (EWS) to forecast the possibility of an imminent crisis in the crisis window of 12 months by employing signal extraction methodology and logistic regression model for the period 1986–2015. Among the 22 identified crisis months (stress periods), only early episodes (1990–1991) were followed by a devaluation and not the later periods (post 1991). Both signal extraction methodology and logistic regression model indicate no relative importance to the three generations of currency crises models. Nevertheless, the results advocate that logistic regression model fares better than signal extraction technique. The results also suggest that building an EWS can be an effective diagnostic technique.

JEL Codes: F31, F47, G01
Co-worker reactions to i-deals through the lens of social comparison: The role of fairness and emotions
Authors: Marescaux Elise , De Winne Sophie , Rofcanin Yasin
Published: November 2019

The individualization of working conditions has culminated in the form of “i-deals,” which are uniquely negotiated arrangements between employees (i-dealers) and their supervisor. Implementing such idiosyncratic deals, however, only makes sense when their benefits outweigh their costs. To assess their merit, co-worker reactions should be considered. Do i-deals trigger fairness perceptions and emotions among co-workers? And how do these factors influence co-workers’ behaviors? To date, the cognitive and emotional mechanisms of co-workers’ behavioral reactions have been underdeveloped. In this article, we build on social comparison theory to develop a process model. We argue that social comparison is not a given, as co-workers might not necessarily compare themselves with the i-dealer. Yet, if they engage in comparison, this can be upward when they feel disadvantaged or, alternatively, downward. Such comparisons include a unique set of emotions and fairness perceptions, which together influence co-workers’ behaviors positively or negatively. Moreover, we argue that the boundary conditions of the relational context within which i-deals unfold play an important role. Our model offers theoretical insights into co-worker reactions to i-deals as well as a future research agenda. The model also aids practitioners in understanding co-workers’ reactions and in guiding them to assure positive reactions.
Expression of BSP-GFPtpz Transgene during Osteogenesis and Reparative Dentinogenesis
Authors: Vijaykumar A. , Dyrkacz P. , Vidovic-Zdrilic I. , Maye P. , Mina M.
Published: November 2019

Bone sialoprotein (BSP) is a member of the SIBLING family with essential roles in skeletogenesis. In the developing teeth, although the expression and function of BSP in the formation of acellular cementum and periodontal attachment are well documented, there are uncertainties regarding the expression and function of BSP by odontoblasts and dentin. Reporter mice are valuable animal models for biological research, providing a gene expression readout that can contribute to cellular characterization within the context of a developmental process. In the present study, we examined the expression of a BSP-GFPtpz reporter mouse line during odontoblast differentiation, reparative dentinogenesis, and bone. In the developing teeth, BSP-GFPtpz was expressed at high levels in cementoblasts but not in odontoblasts or dentin. In bones, the transgene was highly expressed in osteoblasts at an early stage of differentiation. Interestingly, despite its lack of expression in odontoblasts and dental pulp during tooth development, the BSP-GFPtpz transgene was detected during in vitro mineralization of primary pulp cultures and during reparative dentinogenesis following pulp exposures. Importantly, under these experimental contexts, the expression of BSP-GFPtpz was still exclusive to DSPP-Cerulean, an odontoblast-specific reporter gene. This suggests that the combinatorial use of BSP-GFPtpz and DSPP-Cerulean can be a valuable experimental tool to distinguish osteogenic from dentinogenic cells, thereby providing an avenue to investigate mechanisms that distinctly regulate the lineage progression of progenitors into odontoblasts versus osteoblasts.
Regional Variation in West and East Coast African-American English Prosody and Rap Flows
Authors: Gilbers Steven , Hoeksema Nienke , de Bot Kees , Lowie Wander
Published: November 2019

Regional variation in African-American English (AAE) is especially salient to its speakers involved with hip-hop culture, as hip-hop assigns great importance to regional identity and regional accents are a key means of expressing regional identity. However, little is known about AAE regional variation regarding prosodic rhythm and melody. In hip-hop music, regional variation can also be observed, with different regions’ rap performances being characterized by distinct “flows” (i.e., rhythmic and melodic delivery), an observation which has not been quantitatively investigated yet. This study concerns regional variation in AAE speech and rap, specifically regarding the United States’ East and West Coasts. It investigates how East Coast and West Coast AAE prosody are distinct, how East Coast and West Coast rap flows differ, and whether the two domains follow a similar pattern: more rhythmic and melodic variation on the West Coast compared to the East Coast for both speech and rap. To this end, free speech and rap recordings of 16 prominent African-American members of the East Coast and West Coast hip-hop communities were phonetically analyzed regarding rhythm (e.g., syllable isochrony and musical timing) and melody (i.e., pitch fluctuation) using a combination of existing and novel methodological approaches. The results mostly confirm the hypotheses that East Coast AAE speech and rap are less rhythmically diverse and more monotone than West Coast AAE speech and rap, respectively. They also show that regional variation in AAE prosody and rap flows pattern in similar ways, suggesting a connection between rhythm and melody in language and music.
Strengthening Public Health in Wisconsin Through the Wisconsin Clinical Laboratory Network
Authors: Bateman Allen C. , Bowles Erin J. , Munson Erik , Podzorski Raymond P. , Beck Eric T. , Dern Richard , Sterkel Alana K. , Warshauer David M. , Shult Peter A.
Published: November 2019

The Wisconsin Clinical Laboratory Network (WCLN) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison is a partnership of 138 clinical and public health laboratories (as of February 2019) coordinated by the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene. This article describes the WCLN, its current activities, and lessons learned through this partnership. A laboratory technical advisory group, which consists of representatives from clinical laboratories, provides clinical laboratory perspective to the WCLN and fosters communication among laboratories. Activities and resources available through the WCLN include annual regional meetings, annual technical workshops, webinars, an email listserv, laboratory informational messages, in-person visits by a WCLN coordinator to clinical laboratories, and laboratory-based surveillance data and summaries distributed by the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene. One challenge to maintaining the WCLN is securing continual funding for network activities. Key lessons learned from this partnership of more than 20 years include the importance of in-person meetings, the clinical perspective of the laboratory technical advisory group, and providing activities and resources to clinical laboratories to foster sharing of data and clinical specimens for public health surveillance and outbreak response.
Partnerships Involved in Public Health Testing for Zika Virus in Florida, 2016
Authors: Heberlein-Larson Lea , Gillis Leah D. , Morrison Andrea , Scott Blake , Cook Mary , Cannons Andrew , Quaye Elesi , White Stephen , Cone Marshall , Mock Valerie , Schiffer Jarad , Lonsway David , Petway Marla , Otis Aaron , Stanek Danielle , Hamilton Janet , Crowe Susanne
Published: November 2019

The emergence of Zika virus in the Americas in 2015 and its association with birth defects and other adverse health outcomes triggered an unprecedented public health response and a demand for testing. In 2016, when Florida exceeded state public health laboratory capacity for diagnostic testing, the state formed partnerships with federal and commercial laboratories. Eighty-two percent of the testing (n = 33 802 of 41 008 specimens) by the laboratory partners, including Florida’s Bureau of Public Health Laboratories (BPHL; n = 13 074), a commercial laboratory (n = 19 214), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC; n = 1514), occurred from July through November 2016, encompassing the peak period of local transmission. These partnerships allowed BPHL to maintain acceptable test turnaround times of 1 to 4 days for nucleic acid testing and 3 to 7 days for serologic testing. Lessons learned from this response to inform future outbreaks included the need for early planning to establish outside partnerships, adding specimen triage strategies to surge plans, and integrating state and CDC information systems.