bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Trends in the Clinical and Pathological Characteristics of Victims of Sudden Cardiac Death in the Absence of Previously Identified Heart Disease
Authors: Junttila M. Juhani , Hookana Eeva , Kaikkonen Kari S. , Kortelainen Marja-Leena , Myerburg Robert J. , Huikuri Heikki V.
Published: June 2016

Background—

Coronary artery disease is identified in ≈80% of victims of sudden cardiac death (SCD). Because the prevention strategies and public awareness have changed during the past decades, we studied the temporal trends in the pathogenesis of SCD.

Methods and Results—

FinGesture (n=4031) is a prospective study designed to classify the phenotype and genotype profiles of SCD in a consecutive series of victims of SCD in Northern Finland. On the basis of Finnish law, all subjects who die suddenly undergo autopsy. We analyzed the characteristics of SCD victims and autopsy findings in 1998 to 2002, 2003 to 2007, and 2008 to 2012. Among victims of SCD as a first cardiac event (n=2697), the proportion with coronary artery disease decreased during the 2008 to 2012 time period, compared with the 2 preceding 5-year periods: 74.0% in 1998 to 2002, 73.1% in 2003 to 2007, and 66.4% in 2008 to 2012 (
P
<0.001). Proportion of SCDs associated with hypertensive heart disease with left ventricular hypertrophy in the absence of coronary artery disease increased from 1.7% in 1998 to 2002 to 5.8% in 2003 to 2007 and 8.9% in 2008 to 2012 (
P
<0.001). Similarly, myocardial fibrosis in the absence of myocarditis or left ventricular hypertrophy, or other known pathogeneses, was 6.7% in the past 5-year period compared with 2 previous 5-year periods (3.7% and 4.0%;
P
<0.001 between 1998–2002 and 2008–2012 and between 2003–2007 and 2008–2012).

Conclusions—

The proportion of SCDs attributable to coronary artery disease, in the absence of a history of heart disease, has decreased, whereas the proportion associated with hypertensive heart disease and idiopathic fibrosis has increased during the past 15 years.
Eligibility and Predictors for Acute Revascularization Procedures in a Stroke Center
Authors: Vanacker Peter , Lambrou Dimitris , Eskandari Ashraf , Mosimann Pascal J. , Maghraoui Ali , Michel Patrik
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose—

Endovascular treatment (EVT) is a new standard of care for selected, large vessel occlusive strokes. We aimed to determine frequency of potentially eligible patients for intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and EVT in comprehensive stroke centers. In addition, predictors of EVT eligibility were derived.

Methods—

Patients from a stroke center–based registry (2003–2014), admitted within 24 hours of last proof of usual health, were selected if they had all data to determine IVT and EVT eligibility according to American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) guidelines (class I–IIa recommendations). Moreover, less restrictive criteria adapted from randomized controlled trials and clinical practice were tested. Maximum onset-to-door time windows for IVT eligibility were 3.5 hours (allowing door-to-needle delay of ≤60 minutes) and 4.5 hours for EVT eligibility (door-to-groin delay ≤90 minutes). Demographic and clinical information were used in logistic regression analysis to derive variables associated with EVT eligibility.

Results—

A total of 2704 patients with acute ischemic stroke were included, of which 26.8% were transfers. Of all patients with stroke arriving at our comprehensive stroke center, a total proportion of 12.4% patients was eligible for IVT. Frequency of EVT eligibility differed between AHA/ASA guidelines and less restrictive approach: 2.9% versus 4.9%, respectively, of all patients with acute ischemic stroke and 10.5% versus 17.7%, respectively, of all patients arriving within <6 hours. Predictors for AHA–EVT eligibility were younger, shorter onset-to-admission delays, higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), decreased vigilance, hemineglect, absent cerebellar signs, atrial fibrillation, smoking, and decreasing glucose levels (area under the curve=0.86).

Conclusions—

Of patients arriving within 6 hours at a comprehensive stroke center, 10.5% are EVT eligible according to AHA/ASA criteria, 17.7% according to criteria resembling randomized controlled trials, and twice as many patients are IVT eligible (36.2%).
Prothrombotic State in Patients With a Left Atrial Appendage Thrombus of Unknown Origin and Cerebrovascular Events
Authors: Meus Rafal , Son Maksim , Sobczyk Dorota , Undas Anetta
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose—

We hypothesized that formation of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombi of unknown origin is associated with altered fibrin clot properties and blood hypercoagulability.

Methods—

In a case–control study, we investigated 32 patients with a history of LAA thrombus after successful anticoagulant treatment versus 32 control subjects matched for age, sex, and diabetes mellitus. All subjects had previous ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or migraine associated with patent foramen ovale. Patients with documented atrial fibrillation were excluded. We determined plasma fibrin clot permeability, fibrinolytic efficiency, thrombin generation, platelet and endothelial markers. Stroke or transient ischemic attack were assessed during a median follow-up of 74 (range 19–98) months.

Results—

Compared with controls, patients with LAA thrombus more frequently were smokers (43.8% versus 18.8%) and had 20% prolonged clot lysis time, lower plasminogen (−14%), and higher plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (+17%), thrombin–antithrombin complexes (+17%), CD40 ligand (+30%), P-selectin (+29%), and von Willebrand factor (+30%, all
P
<0.05). Occurrence of LAA thrombus was predicted by von Willebrand factor (β=0.038,
P
=0.004), plasminogen (β=−0.048,
P
=0.01), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (β=−0.161,
P
=0.03), and clot permeability (β=−1.076,
P
=0.03). During follow-up, cerebrovascular events occurred in 10 (33.33%) of the 30 available patients in the LAA thrombus group, including 7 (23.3%) with recurrent LAA thrombus and 4 (13.33%) with documented atrial fibrillation. Recurrent LAA thrombus was associated with lower baseline
K
s
and higher thrombin generation, fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and soluble CD40 ligand (all
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

Prothrombotic blood alterations could be involved in the LAA thrombus formation in patients without documented atrial fibrillation and are associated with increased risk of stroke or transient ischemic attack during follow-up.
Use of Antithrombotic Therapy and Long-Term Clinical Outcome Among Patients Surviving Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Ottosen Tobias Pilgaard , Grijota Miriam , Hansen Morten Lock , Brandes Axel , Damgaard Dorte , Husted Steen Elkjær , Johnsen Søren Paaske
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose—

The effectiveness and safety of antithrombotic therapy (AT) among patients with a history of intracerebral hemorrhage remain uncertain. We therefore determined the prevalence of indication for AT among patients hospitalized with first-time intracerebral hemorrhage and examined the impact of subsequent AT use on the long-term clinical outcome.

Methods—

We performed a population-based cohort study using nationwide Danish medical registries. Patients with risk of thromboembolism surviving the first 30 days after hospitalization because of intracerebral hemorrhage were identified and followed up. We estimated the hazard ratio of all-cause death, thromboembolic events, or major bleeding according to use of AT.

Results—

We identified 6369 patients between 2005 and 2013. Among these patients, 2978 (47%) had indication for AT, and during the follow-up, (median: 2.3 year) 1281 (43%) died, 497 (17%) had a thromboembolic event, and 536 (18%) had major bleeding. Postdischarge use of oral anticoagulation therapy among patients with indication for oral anticoagulation therapy was associated with a significant lower risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.43–0.82) and thromboembolic events (adjusted hazard ratio 0.58; 95% confidence interval, 0.35–0.97) and no increased risk of major bleeding (adjusted hazard ratio 0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.41–1.02). In contrast, use of platelet inhibitors among patients with indication for platelet inhibitors was not related to statistically significantly improved clinical outcome.

Conclusions—

Approximately 1 of 2 patients surviving intracerebral hemorrhage had a high risk of thromboembolism. Postdischarge use of oral anticoagulation therapy was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality and thromboembolic events and no increased risk of major bleeding.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Plaque Morphology, Burden, and Distribution in Patients With Symptomatic Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis
Authors: Dieleman Nikki , Yang Wenjie , Abrigo Jill M. , Chu Winnie Chiu Wing , van der Kolk Anja G. , Siero Jeroen C.W. , Wong Ka Sing , Hendrikse Jeroen , Chen Xiang Yan
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose—

Intracranial atherosclerosis is a major cause of ischemic stroke worldwide. Intracranial vessel wall imaging is an upcoming field of interest to assess intracranial atherosclerosis. In this study, we investigated total intracranial plaque burden in patients with symptomatic middle cerebral artery stenosis, assessed plaque morphological features, and compared features of symptomatic and asymptomatic lesions using a 3T vessel wall sequence.

Methods—

Nineteen consecutive Chinese patients with ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (mean age: 67 years; 7 females) with a middle cerebral artery stenosis were scanned at 3T magnetic resonance imaging; the protocol included a time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography and the T1-weighted volumetric isotropically reconstructed turbo spin echo acquisition sequence before and after (83%) contrast administration. Chi-square tests were used to assess associations between different plaque features. Statistical significance was set at
P
<0.05.

Results—

Vessel wall lesions were identified in 18 patients (95%), totaling 57 lesions in 494 segments (12% of segments). Lesions were located primarily in the anterior circulation (82%). Eccentric lesions were associated with a focal thickening pattern and concentric lesions with a diffuse thickening pattern (
P
<0.001). When differentiating between asymptomatic and symptomatic lesions, an association (
P
<0.05) was found between eccentricity and asymptomatic lesions, but not for enhancement or a specific thickening pattern. Symptomatic lesions did not have any specific morphological features.

Conclusions—

Our results lead to a 2-fold conclusion: (1) The classification system of both thickening pattern and distribution of the lesion can be simplified by using distribution pattern only and (2) differentiation between symptomatic and asymptomatic atherosclerotic lesions was possible using intracranial vessel wall imaging.
Orosomucoid, Carotid Plaque, and Incidence of Stroke
Authors: Berntsson John , Östling Gerd , Persson Margaretha , Smith J. Gustav , Hedblad Bo , Engström Gunnar
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose—

Orosomucoid (α-1-acid glycoprotein) is an acute-phase protein that has been implicated in anti-inflammatory, immunomodulating, and angiogenic pathways. Orosomucoid has also been associated with coronary disease and stroke. The relationship between orosomucoid, carotid plaque, and stroke incidence were explored in this study.

Methods—

Plasma levels of orosomucoid were assessed in 4285 subjects (39.8% men; mean age 57.5±5.9 years) without cardiovascular disease, who participated in the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study, between 1991 and 1994. The right carotid artery was examined for plaque using B-mode ultrasound examination. Incidence of stroke was followed up during a median follow-up time of 17.7 years.

Results—

Carotid plaque was present in 43.5% at baseline. Orosomucoid was significantly higher in subjects with carotid plaque (mean±SD: 0.72±0.22 versus 0.69±0.20 g/L;
P
<0.001). A total of 234 subjects were diagnosed with ischemic stroke during follow-up. Orosomucoid was associated with ischemic stroke after adjustment for risk factors, with hazard ratio 1.48 (95% confidence interval, 1.02–2.16) comparing the third versus first tertile. In subjects with plaque and belonging to the top tertile of orosomucoid, the hazard ratio was 2.07 (95% confidence interval, 1.38–3.11) compared with those without plaque and with orosomucoid in the first and second tertiles, after adjustment for C-reactive protein and other risk factors.

Conclusions—

Elevated levels of orosomucoid are associated with increased occurrence of carotid plaque and increased incidence of ischemic stroke. The combination of high orosomucoid and carotid plaque substantially increase the risk of stroke.
Previous Statin Use and High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging Characteristics of Intracranial Atherosclerotic Plaque
Authors: Chung Jong-Won , Hwang Jaechun , Lee Mi Ji , Cha Jihoon , Bang Oh Young
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose—

Although statin use has been linked to the stabilization of systemic atherosclerosis, its effect on symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic plaques has yet to be explored. We hypothesized that premorbid statin use is associated with plaque instability in intracranial arteries and may lead to differential patterns (size and distribution) of ischemic lesions in patients with acute intracranial atherosclerotic stroke.

Methods—

One hundred and thirty-six patients with acute infarcts caused by intracranial atherosclerotic stroke underwent high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were categorized into 3 groups based on their premorbid statin use: nonuser, low-dose user, and high-dose user, according to the 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines on blood cholesterol. Symptomatic lesions in intracranial arteries were analyzed using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging for vascular morphology (degree of stenosis, remodeling index, and wall index) and plaque activation (pattern and volume of enhancement). The cortical distribution and volume of ischemic brain lesions were measured using diffusion-weighted imaging.

Results—

Among the enrolled patients, 38 (27.94%) were taking statins before the index stroke (22 low-dose statins and 16 high-dose statins). The degree of stenosis, remodeling index, and wall index did not differ between the 3 groups. However, the volume of plaque enhancement was significantly lower in statin users (nonuser, 33.26±40.72; low-dose user, 13.15±17.53; high-dose user, 3.13±5.26;
P
=0.002). Premorbid statin use was associated with a higher prevalence of nonembolic stroke and a decrease in large cortical infarcts (
P
=0.012).

Conclusions—

Premorbid statin usage is independently associated with reduced plaque enhancement and a decrease in large cortical lesions in patients with intracranial atherosclerotic stroke.
Intravenous Thrombolysis With Recombinant Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator in a Stroke Patient Receiving Dabigatran Anticoagulant After Antagonization With Idarucizumab
Authors: Berrouschot Jörg , Stoll Anett , Hogh Theresa , Eschenfelder Christoph Cyrill
Published: June 2016

Background and Purpose—

Therapeutic options for acute ischemic stroke patients presenting on effective anticoagulation are limited. Idarucizumab, a humanized, monoclonal antibody fragment for immediate reversal of dabigatran, may allow this subgroup of orally anticoagulated patients to regain eligibility for thrombolysis.

Methods—

We report the first successful acute antagonization of dabigatran by idarucizumab before intravenous thrombolysis with recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator.

Results—

Idarucizumab was given to a 76-year-old male patient on dabigatran ≈3.5 hours after his last dose. Neurological status on admission was NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) 11. Recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator was initiated immediately after dabigatran reversal. The patient was discharged with a favorable outcome of NHISS 1 on day 7. No complications were observed.

Conclusions—

This case represents a new therapeutic paradigm. It is further supported by in vitro data showing no nonspecific interactions of idarucizumab with recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator–induced thrombolysis. Thus, patients effectively anticoagulated with dabigatran who were previously contraindicated for thrombolytic therapy in this situation may now receive treatment because of the ability to rapidly reverse the anticoagulant activity of dabigatran with idarucizumab.
Mesocyclops and Thermocyclops (Copepoda, Cyclopidae) in the major Visayas Islands (central Philippines)
Authors: Dela Paz Erica S. P. , Hołyńska Maria K. , Papa Rey Donne S.
Published: June 2016

Our knowledge of the freshwater cyclopid copepods of the Visayas Islands remains poor as compared to other terrestrial and aquatic fauna. This study focuses on two genera,MesocyclopsandThermocyclops, which are common components of lake plankton communities. This study included specimens collected from 59 sampling sites found in major islands (Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte and Samar) and a small island (Pacijan) in the Visayas region. Four species ofMesocyclopsand three species ofThermocyclopswere identified. This includes the first record ofMesocyclops woutersiin the Philippines, which was so far unknown from insular SE Asia. The endemicMesocyclops microlasius, previously reported from Luzon Island, was also found in Lake Danao (Pacijan Island). An identification key to Philippine species ofMesocyclopsandThermocyclopsis herein provided. Geographic distribution and possible causes of the low number of species observed and their implications for further faunal studies are also discussed.
One new species of a new genus, Tosacallianassa gen. nov., in a new family, Tosacallianassidae fam. nov., from Tosa-Saga, Kochi Prefecture, Japan (Decapoda, Callianassidea)
Authors: Sakai Katsushi
Published: June 2016

The superfamily Callianassoidea Dana, 1852 currently includes ten families (Sakai, 2011). However, recent examination of material from Tosa-Saga, Kochi Prefecture, Japan, presented the occurrence of a new species,Tosacallianassa hatasagaensisgen. et sp. nov. The deviant morphology of the new taxon shows elements of the families Anacalliacidae Manning & Felder, 1991, Callianassidae Dana, 1852, and Callianopsidae Manning & Felder, 1991 (cf. sensu nov. in Sakai, 2011). This necessitated the author to also establish a new family, Tosacallianassidae, based on the new genus. The new family is additionally included in the Callianassoidea Dana, 1852 as an eleventh member of that superfamily.
Feeding ecology of non-native Siberian prawns, Palaemon modestus (Heller, 1862) (Decapoda, Palaemonidae), in the lower Snake River, Washington, U.S.A.
Authors: Tiffan Kenneth F. , Hurst William R.
Published: June 2016

We used both stomach content and stable isotope analyses to describe the feeding ecology of Siberian prawns Palaemon modestus (Heller, 1862), a non-native caridean shrimp that is a relatively recent invader of the lower Snake River. Based on identifiable prey in stomachs, the opossum shrimp Neomysis mercedis Holmes, 1896 comprised up to 34-55% (by weight) of diets of juvenile to adult P. modestus, which showed little seasonal variation. Other predominant items/taxa consumed included detritus, amphipods, dipteran larvae, and oligochaetes. Stable isotope analysis supported diet results and also suggested that much of the food consumed by P. modestus that was not identifiable came from benthic sources — predominantly invertebrates of lower trophic levels and detritus. Palaemon modestus consumption of N. mercedis may pose a competitive threat to juvenile salmon and resident fishes which also rely heavily on that prey.
Sex and size affecting time allocations for activities in Uca annulipes (H. Milne Edwards, 1837)
Authors: Tina Fahmida Wazed , Jaroensutasinee Mullica , Jaroensutasinee Krisanadej
Published: June 2016

We investigated the amount of time that large and small, male and female fiddler crabsUca annulipes(H. Milne Edwards, 1837) spent on feeding, walking, standing, grooming, burrowing, inside burrows, fighting, and courtship waving. We video-recorded the activities of 45 males (22 small and 23 large), and 39 females (19 small and 20 large) each for 5 min, and calculated the percentage of time spent on each activity/crab. Our results showed that both sexes spent more time on feeding than on other activities. Males spent more time on building burrows, walking, and grooming than females, and females spent more time inside burrows than males. Smaller males spent more time on feeding, and less time on building burrows and on waving than larger ones. There were no relations between female body size and activities. Feeding rate/feeding claw was higher in males than in females, and crab body size was negatively associated with feeding rate/min.
Effects of infestation by Argeia pugettensis Dana, 1853 (Isopoda, Bopyridae) on the growth and reproduction of the sand shrimp Crangon hakodatei Rathbun, 1902 (Decapoda, Crangonidae) in South Korea
Authors: Lee In Ok , Bae Ho Jin , Kim Hyeong-Gi , Oh Chul-Woong
Published: June 2016

This study investigated possible parasitic effects on growth, reproduction and external sexual characters induced by a bopyrid isopod Argeia pugettensis Dana, 1853, which parasitizes the branchial chamber of the sand shrimp Crangon hakodatei Rathbun, 1902 in South Korea. Total infestation rate was 5.7%. The sizes of infected female and male hosts were similar compared to those of uninfected hosts. A. pugettensis showed size-specific selection for hosts. The relationship between host and parasite length was significantly positive. Several effects of parasitization were observed on C. hakodatei parasitized by A. pugettensis. In female hosts, parasitic effects were observed in growth (increased growth), internal organ development (immature gonads) and external sexual characters (no breeding dress). In male hosts, parasitic effects were observed on growth (increased growth) and development of external sexual characters (smaller appendix masculina).
Mughal Horoscopes as Propaganda
Authors: Popp Stephan
Published: June 2016

Not only in Europe but also in India, kings and emperors used astrology as a ‘scientific proof’ for their claims to power. As it still was regarded as a science, it could provide useful justification for a king’s great destiny, even though horoscopes are so complex that almost every fact can be ‘found’ in them by a clever combination of their data. Though doubts about astrology existed, the Mughal emperors used astrology extensively. Two of them, Akbar (1556-1605) and his grandson Shāh Jahān (1628-1658), included horoscopes in the introductions of their official chronicles. Both wanted to prove that they were the renovator of Islam in the second Islamic millennium. Akbar had this done in defiance of religion, Shāh Jahān in compliance, but both with a definitive effort to twist the information from the heavens in a way that suited them. Both used horoscopes to explain the tenets of their reign as a requirement of the age. In the case of Shāh Jahān, we even find personal sentiments and changes over time, comparing an earlier and a slightly later horoscope.
The Local Lives of a Transregional Poet: ʿAbd al-Qāder Bidel and the Writing of Persianate Literary History
Authors: Schwartz Kevin L.
Published: June 2016

This article focuses on the different ways in which the personality and poetry of the Indian-born poet ʿAbd al-Qāder Bidel (d. 1721) has been interpreted and deployed in a variety of contexts across the Persianate sphere of West, Central, and South Asia, particularly in the nineteenth century. By highlighting different interpretations of Bidel as an obscurantist poet, agent of change, progressive voice, unabashed innovator, and canonic master, I present a more complicated historiography of the poet than the way he is typically presented in Persian literary history. An exploration of the ways in which different peoples and places in the Persianate world have interpreted Bidel reveals a larger complex historiography, which identifies transregional similarities among West, Central, and South Asia and contributes towards a more integrative literary history of the Persianate world.
Rediscovery and lectotypification of Lepidagathis clavata (Acanthaceae), a steno-endemic species from the northern Western Ghats, India
Authors: KOLTE RUTUJA RAJENDRA , KAMBALE SHARAD SURESH , GNANASEKARAN GUNADAYALAN , JANARTHANAM MALAPATI KUPPUSWAMY
Published: June 2016

Lepidagathis clavata (Acanthaceae) is rediscovered after a lapse of 166 years from Chorla Ghat (type locality) in Karnataka and Chaukul plateau in Maharashtra from the northern Western Ghats, India. Besides, this name is lectotypified here, and the revised description and colour photographs are provided for an accurate and easy identification of this steno-endemic species.
Muyocopronales, ord. nov., (Dothideomycetes, Ascomycota) and a reappraisal of Muyocopron species from northern Thailand
Authors: MAPOOK AUSANA , HYDE KEVIN D. , DAI DONG-QIN , LI JUNFU , JONES E. B. GARETH , BAHKALI ALI H. , BOONMEE SARANYAPHAT
Published: June 2016

Muyocopron species are associated with a wide variety of plant substrates worldwide and presently 57 species epithets are listed in Index Fungorum. Species in this genus form distinctive black, dull, rounded regions on the surface of plants and the genus is probably polyphyletic. The present study clarifies the phylogenetic placement of Muyocopron and related species, using fresh tropical collections from northern Thailand. Three Muyocopron species are characterized based on analyses of combined LSU and SSU sequence datasets. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that Muyocopron species form a distinct lineage with the Dyfrolomycetales and Acrospermales lineages. The new order Muyocopronales with three new Muyocopron species is introduced based on its distinct phylogeny and unique morphological characteristics. The taxonomy and phylogenetic relationships of tropical Muyocopron species are reappraised with suggestions for future work.
Taxonomic remarks on the genus Sternbergia L. (Amaryllidaceae) in Turkey based on leaf anatomy, karyosystematic analysis and nuclear DNA content
Authors: KOÇYIĞIT MINE , TUNA METIN
Published: June 2016

Anatomy of leaf cross sections, karyological studies, and nuclear DNA content analysis by flow cytometry were carried out on the six Sternbergia species from Turkey: S. candida (endemic to the country), S. clusiana, S. colchiciflora, S. lutea, S. sicula and S. vernalis. In karyological analysis, number and morphology of the somatic chromosomes, the ploidy level and karyotype formula of the specimens used in the study were investigated in detail. The measurements of somatic chromosomes were calculated with formula of the relative variation in chromosome lenght (CVCL) and mean centromeric asymmetry (MCA). According to the results of this study, there are two different basic chromosome numbers. i.e. x = 10 (S. candida, S. clusiana, S. colchiciflora and S. vernalis) and x = 11 (S. lutea and S. sicula). Results of karyotype analysis corroborated results of previous studies. The smallest chromosome length was measured as 3.05 μm in S. clusiana while the longest length of 20.89 μm was observed in S. sicula. This is the first study reporting nuclear DNA content results for Sternbergia. Based on results of the nuclear DNA content analysis, there is a great variation within the genus in the interspecific level as 2C DNA content varies between 54.03 and 80.42 pg among the species investigated in the study. Anatomical features of the leaves were good taxonomic markers, especially concerning their palisade cells, ribs, cuticle, laticifer canals, vascular bundles, crystals, stomatal index, and stomata structure. Analytical drawings were presented. Six noteworthy leaf characters were quantified, organized in a data matrix, and analysed with UPGMA methods. In conclusion, cytological characteristics of the Sternbergia species together with their leaf features proved to be quite useful in identification and therefore can provide more clarity for taxonomic revision of the genus.
Crickets (Insecta, Orthoptera, Grylloidea) from Southern New Caledonia,
with descriptions of new taxa
Authors: ANSO JÉRÉMY , JOURDAN HERVÉ , DESUTTER-GRANDCOLAS LAURE
Published: June 2016

Intensive sampling of cricket communities has been undertaken in southern New Caledonia in selected plots of vegetation, i.e. rain forest, preforest and maquis shrubland. This leads to the discovery of many new taxa, which are described in the present paper, together with closely related species from nearby areas. Descriptions are based on general morphology and characters of genitalia. Calling songs are described for all acoustic taxa but two, and observations about species habitats are given. In total, 35 species belonging to 13 genera are studied, including 21 new species and two new genera. The pattern of assemblages of cricket species in New Caledonia is discussed.
The South Temperate Pronophilina (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Satyrinae): a phylogenetic hypothesis, redescriptions and revisionary notes
Authors: MATZ JESS , BROWER ANDREW V.Z.
Published: June 2016

Phylogenetic analysis of the south-temperate members of Pronophilina (Nymphalidae: Satyrinae) using mitochondrial and nuclear gene data corroborated monophyly of the clade and provided a framework for its systematic revision based on morphology. Of the 19 genera, 8 have been synonymized with 16 new combinations: Cosmosatyrus stelligera n. comb., C. dubii n. comb., Neomaenas tristis n. comb., Neosatyrus boisduvalii n. comb., N. humilis n. comb., N. schajovskoii n. comb., N. vesagus n. comb., Punargentus chiliensis n. comb., P. lamna cuzcoensis n. comb., P. monticolens n. comb., P. tandilensis n. comb., Pampasatyrus edmondsii n. comb., P. gustavi n. comb., Tetraphlebia eleates n. comb.,T. leucoglene n. comb., and T. patagonica n. comb. Neomaenas poliozona eustephanos nom. nov., stat. nov. has been raised to a valid subspecies. Neomaenas monachus limonias and Pampasatyrus gustavi penai have been demoted to subspecies and Auca nycteropus and A. pales have been synonymized with A. coctei. The phylogenetic placement of Neomaniola euripides, not formally revised here, is discussed.
Impact of Model Relative Accuracy in Framework of Rescaling Observations in Hydrological Data Assimilation Studies
Authors: Yilmaz M. T. , Crow W. T. , Ryu D.
Published: June 2016

Soil moisture datasets vary greatly with respect to their time series variability and signal-to-noise characteristics. Minimizing differences in signal variances is particularly important in data assimilation to optimize the accuracy of the analysis obtained after merging model and observation datasets. Strategies that reduce these differences are typically based on rescaling the observation time series to match the model. As a result, the impact of the relative accuracy of the model reference dataset is often neglected. In this study, the impacts of the relative accuracies of model- and observation-based soil moisture time series—for seasonal and subseasonal (anomaly) components, respectively—on optimal model–observation integration are investigated. Experiments are performed using both well-controlled synthetic and real data test beds. Investigated experiments are based on rescaling observations to a model using strategies with decreasing aggressiveness: 1) using the seasonality of the model directly while matching the variance of the observed anomaly component, 2) rescaling the seasonality and the anomaly components separately, and 3) rescaling the entire time series as one piece or for each monthly climatology. All experiments use a simple antecedent precipitation index model and assimilate observations via a Kalman filtering approach. Synthetic and real data assimilation results demonstrate that rescaling observations more aggressively to the model is favorable when the model is more skillful than observations; however, rescaling observations more aggressively to the model can degrade the Kalman filter analysis if observations are relatively more accurate.
Shadow Labor
Authors: Flippen Chenoa A.
Published: June 2016

This article examines the forces shaping the labor supply and wages of immigrant Hispanic women in new destinations. The analysis draws on data collected in Durham, North Carolina, and evaluates how labor market outcomes are influenced by variables including human capital, immigration characteristics (including legal status), family structure, and immigrant-specific labor market conditions such as subcontracting. Findings indicate that the main determinants of labor supply among immigrant Hispanic women in Durham relate to family structure, with human capital playing a relatively minor role. Important variation is observed in the degree of work-family conflict across occupations. For wages, human capital and immigration characteristics (including documentation) are more important than family structure. Results show that the position of immigrant Hispanic women in Durham’s low-wage labor market is extremely precarious, with multiple, overlapping sources of disadvantage, particularly related to legal status and family structure.
The Potential and Limitations of Cross-Context Comparative Research on Migration
Authors: Riosmena Fernando
Published: June 2016

This article discusses major methodological challenges in the comparative study of the drivers of international mobility (between different times and places) when using household surveys. Noting the difference between the study of coterminous and stage-specific drivers of migration, I highlight the problems of obtaining data with adequate representation across periods and geographies, which are pressing for all social science research but especially for cross-local comparative endeavors. I discuss the advantages and drawbacks of a broad constellation of prospective and retrospective approaches, paying particular attention to the migration ethnosurvey. After briefly describing the general commonalities and differences of ethnosurvey approaches adopted around the world, I suggest how post hoc case selection and other adjustments can help to ameliorate retrospective biases and comparability problems. I conclude with ideas on a priori case selection that can help to bolster comparative migration studies.
Long-Term Prognostic Implications of the Admission Shock Index in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction Who Received Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Abe Naoyuki , Miura Takashi , Miyashita Yusuke , Hashizume Naoto , Ebisawa Soichiro , Motoki Hirohiko , Tsujimura Takuya , Ishihara Takayuki , Uematsu Masaaki , Katagiri Toshio , Ishihara Ryuma , Tosaka Atsushi , Ikeda Uichi
Published: June 2016

The admission shock index (SI) enables prediction of short-term prognosis. This study investigated the prognostic implications of admission SI for predicting long-term prognoses for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The participants were 680 patients with AMI who received percutaneous coronary intervention. Shock index is the ratio of heart rate and systolic blood pressure. Patients were classified as admission SI <0.66 (normal) and ≥0.66 (elevated; 75th percentile). The end point was 5-year major adverse cardiac events (MACEs). Elevated admission SI was seen in 176 patients. Peak creatine kinase levels were significantly higher and left ventricular ejection fraction was lower in the elevated SI group, which had a worse MACEs. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, SI ≥0.66 was a risk factor for MACE. Elevated admission SI was associated with poorer long-term prognosis.
Power Budget Analysis for Waveguide-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Zilong , Pearce Stuart J. , Lin Yung-Chun , Zervas Michalis N. , Bartlett Philip N. , Wilkinson James S.
Published: June 2016

Waveguide-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (WERS) is emerging as an attractive alternative to plasmonic surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy approaches as it can provide more reproducible quantitative spectra on a robust chip without the need for nanostructured plasmonic materials. Realizing portable WERS systems with high sensitivity using low-cost laser diodes and compact spectrometers requires a detailed analysis of the power budget from laser to spectrometer chip. In this paper, we describe theoretical optimization of planar waveguides for maximum Raman excitation efficiency, demonstrate WERS for toluene on a silicon process compatible high index contrast tantalum pentoxide waveguide, measure the absolute conversion efficiency from pump power to received power in an individual Raman line, and compare this with a power budget analysis of the complete system including collection with an optical fiber and interfacing to a compact spectrometer. Optimized 110 nm thick Ta2O5 waveguides on silica substrates excited at a wavelength of 637 nm are shown experimentally to yield overall system power conversion efficiency of ∼0.5 × 10−12 from the pump power in the waveguide to the collected Raman power in the 1002 cm−1 Raman line of toluene, in comparison with a calculated efficiency of 3.9 × 10−12. Collection efficiency is dictated by the numerical and physical apertures of the spectral detection system but may be improved by further engineering the spatial and angular Raman scattering distributions.
The Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP): A scoping review
Authors: Scammell Emma M. , Bates Stephanie V. , Houldin Adina , Polatajko Helene J.
Published: June 2016

Background.

The Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) approach—now trademarked as the CO-OPApproach—was introduced in the literature in 2001 as an intervention to improve real-world performance in children with developmental coordination disorder. CO-OP has since appeared in numerous publications and has seen adoption with various populations. No compilation of the CO-OP literature is available.

Purpose.

The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the extent (number) and nature (features and characteristics) of the literature on CO-OP.

Method.

Using the scoping review methodology outlined by Arksey and O’Malley, 10 online databases were searched for materials discussing CO-OP. Materials found were reviewed by two reviewers, independently. Articles were categorized according to identified study characteristics.

Findings.

In all, 94 documents were found, including 27 research articles examining application and adaptations of CO-OP with eight populations. In all cases, the approach was deemed useful; however, in many cases, adaptations to the CO-OP protocol were recommended.

Implications.

CO-OP has been applied with a number of populations. There is now sufficient research to warrant a systematic review of the research literature.
Unsafe Drugs Were Prescribed More Than One Hundred Million Times in the United States Before Being Recalled
Authors: Saluja Sonali , Woolhandler Steffie , Himmelstein David U. , Bor David , McCormick Danny
Published: June 2016

For some drugs, safety concerns are only discovered after they have been on the market, sometimes for several years. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has adopted several policies that could increase the likelihood of approving a potentially unsafe medication. We attempted to quantify the number of exposures in the United States to drugs that were newly approved but later withdrawn from the market. We obtained a list of all drugs approved and subsequently withdrawn from the U.S. market due to safety concerns between 1993 and 2010. Using a representative sample of outpatient physician office visits in the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, we estimated the number of visits in the United States at which these unsafe drugs were prescribed. Seventeen drugs were approved and later withdrawn during this 18-year period and were prescribed at 112 million physician office visits in the United States. Nine of these drugs were prescribed more than 1 million times before their market withdrawal. New drugs that are later withdrawn due to being unsafe are frequently prescribed in the United States. To minimize the negative health consequences of prescribing potentially unsafe medications, we should reconsider some of the FDA policies that encourage the rapid approval and dissemination of new drugs.
Semaphorin 3A Induces Odontoblastic Phenotype in Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Yoshida S. , Wada N. , Hasegawa D. , Miyaji H. , Mitarai H. , Tomokiyo A. , Hamano S. , Maeda H.
Published: June 2016

In cases of pulp exposure due to deep dental caries or severe traumatic injuries, existing pulp-capping materials have a limited ability to reconstruct dentin-pulp complexes and can result in pulpectomy because of their low potentials to accelerate dental pulp cell activities, such as migration, proliferation, and differentiation. Therefore, the development of more effective therapeutic agents has been anticipated for direct pulp capping. Dental pulp tissues are enriched with dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). Here, the authors investigated the effects of semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) on various functions of human DPSCs in vitro and reparative dentin formation in vivo in a rat dental pulp exposure model. Immunofluorescence staining revealed expression of Sema3A and its receptor Nrp1 (neuropilin 1) in rat dental pulp tissue and human DPSC clones. Sema3A induced cell migration, chemotaxis, proliferation, and odontoblastic differentiation of DPSC clones. In addition, Sema3A treatment of DPSC clones increased β-catenin nuclear accumulation, upregulated expression of the FARP2 gene (FERM, RhoGEF, and pleckstrin domain protein 2), and activated Rac1 in DPSC clones. Furthermore, in the rat dental pulp exposure model, Sema3A promoted reparative dentin formation with dentin tubules and a well-aligned odontoblast-like cell layer at the dental pulp exposure site and with novel reparative dentin almost completely covering pulp tissue at 4 wk after direct pulp capping. These findings suggest that Sema3A could play an important role in dentin regeneration via canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Sema3A might be an alternative agent for direct pulp capping, which requires further study.
Microenvironmental Views on Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation in Aging
Authors: Sui B.D. , Hu C.H. , Zheng C.X. , Jin Y.
Published: June 2016

Aging is characterized by common environmental changes, such as hormonal, immunologic, and metabolic disorders. These pathologic factors impair the capability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to generate and maintain functionalized tissue components, contributing to age-related tissue degeneration (e.g., osteoporosis). However, in organismal aging, whether the microenvironmental signals induce common or differential MSC compromise and how they interact at the molecular level in mediating the functional decline of MSCs are not fully understood. In this review, we discuss the respective contribution of microenvironmental pathologic factors to age-related MSC dysfunction—particularly, the shifted differentiation from osteoblasts to adipocytes of bone marrow–derived MSCs. The authors summarize recent works regarding mechanisms underlying MSC-biased differentiation under altered microenvironments, which involve the activation of key signaling pathways, intracellular oxidative stress, and posttranscriptional regulations. In addition, we compare the differential influences of systemic and local microenvironments on MSC differentiation based on our findings. The authors also propose strategies to rescue differentiation disorders of MSCs in aging via modulating microenvironments, by using signaling modulators, anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants, and metabolic regulators and by promoting mobilization of systemic MSCs to local injury sites. The authors hope that these insights contribute to MSC-based organismal aging research and treatments.
Making sense of employer collectivism – The case of Danish wage bargaining under recession
Authors: Ibsen Christian L
Published: June 2016

This conceptual article argues that preferences of employers for collective action cannot be reduced to rational actors making decisions based on market structures or institutional logics. Both markets and institutions are inherently ambiguous and employers therefore have to settle for plausible – rather than accurate – rational strategies among many alternatives through so-called sensemaking. Sensemaking refers to the process by which employers continuously make sense of their competitive environment by building causal stories of competitive advantages. The article therefore tries to provide a better understanding of how preferences for collectivism are formed, sustained and potentially changed by identifying dominant and competing stories that either reinforce or challenge preferences for collectivism. Hereby, the article fills a theoretical, empirical and methodological void in studies that allude to the ambiguous role of markets and institutions but do not study how actors deal with this ambiguity. The sensemaking concept is illustrated with an analysis of wage bargaining in Denmark during the recent recession when Danish labour cost competitiveness was in a deplorable state. However, unlike countries in similar situations, for example Finland and Sweden, Danish employers retained a coordinated industry-level bargaining system, which makes it an interesting paradox to study from the vantage point of sensemaking.
School Satisfaction Among Low-Income Urban Parents
Authors: Chambers Stefanie , Michelson Melissa R.
Published: June 2016

We examine the views of low-income urban parents toward their neighborhood school. Policymakers must understand the attitudes of these individuals, particularly because they represent some of the most vulnerable groups in our education system. As national education policies have made it easier for parents to choose schools, attention has increasingly focused on parental satisfaction and its predictors. Using a unique survey of low-income urban residents in 10 cities, combined with test score and graduation data, we find that these parents express favorable attitudes toward their neighborhood schools, with weak but statistically significant connections to objective ratings of school performance.
Lincoln’s Decisionism and the Politics of Elimination
Authors: Johnston Steven
Published: June 2016

Abraham Lincoln’s hallowed place in American memory is secure: He saved the Union, put an end to slavery, and was assassinated for these very successes. At the same time, Lincoln’s many undeniable achievements came at terrible—and lasting—democratic cost. Informed by the work of Carl Schmitt and Giorgio Agamben, this essay aspires to illuminate that cost by analyzing two cases where Lincoln exercised a sovereign decisionism—one involving the exile of Ohio politician Clement Vallandigham for publicly opposing the Civil War and the draft, a second involving the mass execution of Dakota Sioux Indians for daring to rise up and enact their own sovereign prerogatives during the war. This decisionism reveals Lincoln’s problematic resort to anti-political practices to deal with adversaries. Given the damage Lincoln did to American democracy, the essay also investigates what he might have done to make amends for it. Finally, it explores how Lincoln’s place in American history might be remembered more agonistically, architecturally speaking, on the Mall in Washington, D.C.