bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 723: A Nitric Oxide-donor Based Vasodilatory Therapy Mitigates Hypoxia-induced Brain Injury on a Zebrafish Model of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Lin Hui-Jen , Yang Ya-Qi , Chang Wei-Tien , Liau Ian
Published: March 2019

Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a brain injury caused by cerebral hypoxia due to perinatal asphyxia, has high mortality, high morbidity and severe sequelae, but therapeutic options remain limited. Cerebral vasoconstriction has been known to contribute to neuronal damage of HIE. Here we report a zebrafish model of brain injury induced by hypoxia and reoxygenation to mimic HIE, and explore the therapeutic potential of a vasodilatory agent to mitigate neuronal damage. Larval zebrafish (6 dpf) were immersed in a hypoxic medium (dissolved O2 below 0.2 ppm) for 15 min to induce brain injury, and then a normoxic medium to mimic resuscitation. The vascular width, blood flow and cerebral cell death were assessed with confocal imaging on transgenic fish that express fluorescent proteins in endothelium, red blood cells (RBCs) and cranial motor neurons, respectively. Neurological function was determined with a modified scoring system based on the movement, coordination and response of zebrafish to stimuli. Larvae survived from the hypoxic assault were categorized according to the severity of impaired cerebral hemodynamics. The
serious
group was featured with greater cerebral vasoconstriction (32% vs. 6%) and lower blood flow (82 vs. 728 RBCs/min) relative to the
moderate
group. These two groups showed notably different outcome measured 2 d post hypoxia with the serious group having a significantly higher cerebral cell death (34% vs. 4%), a lower neurological score (2.5 vs. 6) and survival rate (60% vs. 89%) relative to the moderate group. The strong correlation between the post-hypoxia cerebral hemodynamics and the outcome indicates that a vasodilatory therapy might be a strategy to ameliorate hypoxia induced brain injury. A treatment of s-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO, 15 μM), a nitric oxide donor, effectively alleviated vasoconstriction (7.4% vs. 14.3%), improved the neurological score (3.5 vs. 2.5) and increased the survival rate (63% vs. 54%) relative to the untreated control. In conclusion, a zebrafish model of HIE has been developed. We show that cerebral vasoconstriction may contribute the brain injury associated with HIE, and vasodilatory therapies possess a potential for the remedy of HIE.
Abstract 726: Intermittent Pneumatic Compression during Hemodialysis to improve Quality of Life in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease and End Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Paz Rios Luis H , Al-Ogaili Ahmed , Torres Christian , Ayub Muhammad T , Del Cid Fratti Juan , Kolkailah Ahmed A , Ayoub Ali , Golemi Iva , Fuentes Harry E , Hart Peter , Acob Christine , Tafur Alfonso J
Published: March 2019

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a prevalent global problem with increased mortality. Affects about one in four patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) has shown improvement of lower extremity hemodynamics and symptoms and may be implemented during hemodialysis (HD).

We designed a trial to test the utility of IPC in the ESRD population by assessing improvement in quality of life (QOL) and functional limitation from PAD-related symptoms. We aim to present our design and initial results.

Methods:
This is a prospective single cohort study for paired analysis undergoing recruitment of outpatients at the HD unit of John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County. A sample size of 78 yields a power of 80% and alpha of 0.05, assuming an average peak walking time of five minutes and 25% improvement after supervised exercise. PAD is confirmed by ankle-brachial index (ABI) and demographics collected. A baseline Six-minute Walk Test (6MWT), Peripheral Artery Questionnaire (PAQ) and Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) are administered and will be compared with their performance post intervention. The IPC device (Bio Arterial Plus) will be used for intervention during each HD for two months average. We present continuous variables as mean±SD and categorical variables as percentage.

Results:
From 10 recruited patients in the first month, 60% are men, age 54.6±13.1 years, the majority Hispanic (80%). 70% of ABI were abnormal, all due to non-compressible PAD (1.44±0.20). All patients have HTN, 50% diabetes, 20% hyperlipidemia, 10% had a stroke and 10% revascularization for PAD. At baseline 6MWT, distance walked was 357.7±59.5 m, with 600±52.5 total steps and fatigue as main symptom (30%) and no typical claudication. QOL questionnaires showed WIQ walking distance 68.58±18.04, WIQ walking speed 72.5±26.36, and WIQ stair climbing 50.04±30.04 points; PAQ physical limitation 61±21.4, PAQ symptoms 62.79±18.7, PAQ satisfaction 68.67±27.9, PAQ quality of life 64±13.04, and PAQ social limitation 70±23.13 points.

Conclusion:
Non-compressible PAD is prevalent in ESRD, and QOL seems significantly compromised from it. Our trial will provide insight of an alternative therapy, and optimize the time in HD even further.
Abstract 729: Ultrasound Ultrafast Imaging of the Carotid Artery Pulse Wave Velocity: is the Surrogate of Regional Artery Stiffness?
Authors: Fang Lingyun , Zhang Dan , Wang Jing
Published: March 2019

Aims:
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of death among the worldwide. Increased Arterial stiffness could be a robust predictor for coronary heart disease and stroke. Pulsed wave velocity(PWV) is “the most hallowed and still probably the best” measure of arterial stiffness and closely related to the processing of arteriosclerosis. A new ultrasound-based technique, Ultrasound Ultrafast imaging system own a high frame rate over than 2000 frames per second, and could quickly obtain the PWV propagate along the carotid artery wall. The objective of this paper is to detect the carotid artery PWV of elder subjects in vivo, to determine the feasibility and accuracy to assess artery stiffness by Ultrasound Ultrafast imaging.

Methods:
Ultrasound Ultrafast imaging was performed to obtain the velocity propagate along the left common carotid arteries of fifty-nine (n = 59) healthy volunteers. Including the PWV at the beginning of the systole and at the ending of the systole(
BS
PWV,
ES
PWV), the mean PWV( mPWV) were calculated. E-Tracking technology in measuring artery elasticity modulus (PWVβ)and cardio-ankle vascular index(CAVI) were calculated in all subjects. The correlation between parameters from Ultrafast imaging and elastic modulus from e-tracking, CAVI were analyzed. Indicate artery elasticity and the impact of modifying factors such as BMI, age and hypertension.

Results:
(1) The success rate of the
BS
PWV,
ES
PWV were 94.2% and 90.8%,which required a median overall duration of 73s. (2) BMI, age and hypertension were also positively correlated with mPWV ; mPWV were significant positively correlated with PWVβ and CAVI(r=0.68,P<0.01,r=0.48,P<0.05) (3) The mPWV have a good repeatability and conformity. Interobserver and intraobserver variabilities were 4.2% and 3.6 % respectively.

Conclusion:
The elasticity of carotid artery is the important components of the global arterial elasticity. The decreased elasticity of carotid artery occurs with the ageing and global artery stiffness increased. The Ultrasound Ultrafast imaging is a reliable method to assess the carotid artery stiffness. The technique provides a new, convenient, accurate method for early detection of local artery elasticity.
Abstract 731: Biophysical Properties of Nanofibrillar Scaffolds Modulate Endothelial Cell Survival in the Ischemic Hind Limb
Authors: Yang Guang , Wanjare Maureen , Nakayama Karina , Huang Ngan
Published: March 2019

Research Background and Objectives:
Endothelial cells (ECs) are a promising cell type for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). We previously showed that anisotropic nanofibrillar scaffolds augment the angiogenic function of ECs. Here we reported the effect of nanofibril size and crosslinking on EC survival and function to optimize the biophysical properties of scaffolds for treatment of PAD.

Methods:
Aligned nanofibrillar collagen scaffolds of varying fibril diameters and stiffness were prepared by altering the ionic strength (IS) of monomeric collagen and then crosslinked at varying levels of 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC). Scaffolds were characterized for surface topography and nanofibril diameter by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Primary human ECs seeded onto the scaffolds were assessed for migration and survival under hypoxia. The regenerative potential of EC-seeded scaffolds was examined in a mouse hind limb ischemia (HLI) model.

Results:
Scaffold formulation with varying ionic strength (IS) resulted in different fibril diameter regardless of the degree of crosslinking (
Figure 1A:
~100 nm in low IS group vs. ~200 nm in high IS groups). When cultured under hypoxia, ECs seeded on high IS scaffold crosslinked by 1xEDC exhibited improved survival compared to those on low IS. Accordingly, the high IS 1xEDC scaffold was selectively tested in a mouse HLI model for cell survival and blood perfusion restoration. Bioluminescently-tagged ECs were seeded onto high IS 1xEDC scaffold or a randomly oriented fibrillar scaffold (20 mm of each). Non-invasive bioluminescence imaging for quantification of viable cells demonstrated markedly higher cell survival on aligned nanofibrillar scaffold than on randomly oriented scaffold (
Figure 1B, C
).

Significance:
Aligned nanofibrillar scaffolds that improve survival and angiogenesis of ECs provide a viable clinical strategy for the therapeutic neovascularization.
Association Between Serum High‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels and Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease: Results From the KNOW‐CKD
Authors: Nam Ki Heon , Chang Tae Ik , Joo Young Su , Kim Joohwan , Lee Sangmi , Lee Changhyun , Yun Hae‐Ryong , Park Jung Tak , Yoo Tae‐Hyun , Sung Su Ah , Lee Kyu‐Beck , Oh Kook‐Hwan , Kim Soo Wan , Lee Joongyub , Kang Shin‐Wook , Choi Kyu Hun , Ahn Curie , Han Seung Hyeok ,   the KNOW‐CKD (KoreaN Cohort Study for Outcomes in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease) Investigators
Published: March 2019

Background

High‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (
HDL
‐C) levels are generally decreased in patients with chronic kidney disease (
CKD
). However, studies on the relationship between
HDL
‐C and
CKD
progression are scarce.

Methods and Results

We studied the association between serum
HDL
‐C levels and the risk of
CKD
progression in 2168 participants of the
KNOW
‐
CKD
(Korean Cohort Study for Outcome in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease). The primary outcome was the composite of a 50% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate from baseline or end‐stage renal disease. The secondary outcome was the onset of end‐stage renal disease. During a median follow‐up of 3.1 (interquartile range, 1.6–4.5) years, the primary outcome occurred in 335 patients (15.5%). In a fully adjusted Cox model, the lowest category with
HDL
‐C of <30 mg/dL (hazard ratio, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.30–3.77) and the highest category with
HDL
‐C of ≥60 mg/dL (hazard ratio, 2.05; 95%
CI
, 1.35–3.10) were associated with a significantly higher risk of the composite renal outcome, compared with the reference category with
HDL
‐C of 50 to 59 mg/dL. This association remained unaltered in a time‐varying Cox analysis. In addition, a fully adjusted cubic spline model with
HDL
‐C being treated as a continuous variable yielded similar results. Furthermore, consistent findings were obtained in a secondary outcome analysis for the development of end‐stage renal disease.

Conclusions

A U‐shaped association was observed between serum
HDL
‐C levels and adverse renal outcomes in this large cohort of patients with
CKD
. Our findings suggest that both low and high serum
HDL
‐C levels may be detrimental to patients with nondialysis
CKD
.
Hemistropharia subalbocrenulata (Strophariaceae, Agaricales), a new species with pleurocystidia and unique basidiospores from China
Authors: ZHAO ZHENGBO , TIAN ENJING
Published: March 2019

A new species collected from Jiaohe city of Jilin Province in China, Hemistropharia subalbocrenulata, is proposed. It is distinguished by a viscid and dark-brown pileus with whitish squamules, lamellae with crenulate edge, a whitish stipe with yellowish brown subfloccose to recurved scales, conspicuous pleurocystidia with flexuous neck, as well as large-sized spores. Detailed morphological descriptions, photographs and line drawings of the new species are presented. A Bayesian analysis based on the combined ITS and LSU sequence alignment is provided.
A new species of Senna (Leguminosae) from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: TORRES-COLÍN RAFAEL , SAYNES-VÁSQUEZ ALFREDO
Published: March 2019

A new species of Senna from Mexico is described and illustrated. Morphologically it is similar to S. velutina from Brazil, but it differs in the type of indumentum from various parts of the plant; in the form of the stipules, leaflets, and pedicel gland; in the size and shape of the flower buds; in the shape of the sepals; in the width of the filaments of the abaxial stamens; and in the length of the central anthers, legume, and seeds. This species is endemic to the Juchitan District, in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.
Aphanius farsicus, a replacement name for A. persicus (Jenkins, 1910) (Teleostei, Cyprinodontidae)
Authors: TEIMORI AZAD , ESMAEILI HAMID REZA , REICHENBACHER BETTINA
Published: March 2019

Gaudant (2011) has shown that Brachylebias Priem, 1908 is a junior synonym of Aphanius Nardo, 1827 and that therefore the new name for the Late Miocene species Brachylebias persicus Priem, 1908 is Aphanius persicus (Priem, 1908). In addition, he stated that a new name has to be assigned to the extant A. persicus (Jenkins, 1910). However, before a new species name can be assigned, it is necessary to demonstrate that the two species, currently named A. persicus, are different. Here we show that slight differences are present in the meristic characters between the fossil A. persicus (Priem, 1908) and the extant A. persicus (Jenkins, 1910), and that clear differences are present with regard to the size and morphology of the scales and also with regard to the shape of the jaw teeth. We demonstrate that the epithets blanfordii and pluristriatus, both introduced for Aphanius species by Jenkins (1910), do not represent alternative names, and we introduce A. farsicus as replacement name for A. persicus (Jenkins, 1910).
New host records and descriptions of five new species of Myrsidea Waterston, 1915 (Phthiraptera: Menoponidae) from passerine birds (Aves: Passeriformes)
Authors: VALIM MICHEL P. , PRICE ROGER D. , JOHNSON KEVIN P.
Published: March 2019

Three species of previously described Myrsidea from the birds Lochmias nematura obscurata Cabanis, Automolus ochrolaemus (Tschudi, 1844) (both Furnariidae) and Pachyramphus cinnamomeus Lawrence, 1861 (Cotingidae) are redescribed, including new host and geographical records. Five new species of Myrsidea from the Neotropics are described and illustrated. These species and their type hosts are: M. waterstoni n. sp. from Anabacerthia variegaticeps (Sclater), M. meyi n. sp. from Syndactyla subalaris (Sclater) (Furnariidae), M. dalgleishi n. sp. from Glyphorynchus spirurus (Vieillot) (Dendrocolaptidae), M. cicchinoi n. sp. from Rhynchocyclus olivaceus (Temminck) (Tyrannidae), and M. castroae n. sp. from Atlapetes albinucha gutturalis (Lafresnaye) (Emberizidae). Sequences of a portion of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene for four of these new species were highly divergent from those of other species of Myrsidea.
Two new species of Theloderma (Anura: Rhacophoridae) from Vietnam
Authors: ROWLEY JODI J. L. , LE DUONG THI THUY , HOANG HUY DUC , DAU VINH QUANG , CAO TRUNG TIEN
Published: March 2019

Two new species of rhacophorid frogs in the genus Theloderma are described from high-elevation montane forest on the Kon Tum and Langbian Plateaus in Vietnam, on the basis of morphological and molecular evidence. Both new species are differentiated morphologically from their congeners by their small body size (Theloderma, and are distinct from all congeners sampled (uncorrected sequence divergences at the 16S rRNA gene of >8.5% for all Theloderma for which homologous 16S rRNA sequences are available). The new species are differentiated from each other by dorsal pattern, extent of dorsal asperities, and by mitochondrial DNA.
Taxonomy of Brazilian Psychoda Latreille, 1796 (Diptera, Psychodidae) with the description of thirteen new species
Authors: CORDEIRO DANILO , BRAVO FREDDY , DE CARVALHO CLAUDIO J. B.
Published: March 2019

Thirteen new species of Brazilian Psychoda Latreille are described. Psychoda buxoides Quate, Psychoda laticaula Quate, Psychoda litotes Quate and Psychoda talamanca Quate are redescribed and illustrated. Also, the female of Psychoda dantilandensis Bravo, Cordeiro & Chagas is described for the first time, and additional characters are presented for Psychoda alternata Say, Psychoda alternicula Quate, Psychoda amazonensis Cordeiro & Bravo, Psychoda dantilandensis, Psychoda divaricata Duckhouse, Psychoda serraorobonensis Bravo, Cordeiro & Chagas, Psychoda savaiiensis Edwards, and Psychoda zetoscota Quate. Two identification keys for the species that occur in Brazil are also presented, one for males, one for females.
A review of the species of Lithostege Hübner, [1825] 1816 (Lepidoptera: Geometridae, Larentiinae), occurring in Iran and adjacent countries, with description of two new species from Iran and Pakistan
Authors: SH. HOSSEIN RAJAEI , STÜNING DIETER , VIIDALEPP JAAN
Published: March 2019

The Iranian species of Lithostege are reviewed and additional species from neighbouring countries (which are also likely to occur in Iran), as a whole twenty-eight taxa, are studied. Adults of all species and male and/or female genitalia for most species are figured. Two new species are described: L. samandooki Rajaei sp. nov. from Iran and L. hreblayi Rajaei & Viidalepp sp. nov. from Pakistan. L. repeteki Tsvetajev and L. griseata gigantea Bytinski-Salz & Brandt are synonymized with L. obliquata Urbahn and L. griseata griseata (Denis & Schiffermüller), respectively. L. amseli Wiltshire is discussed as a possible synonym of L. amoenata Christoph. L. flavicornata (Zeller) is upgraded to species-rank again. Distribution areas of all species discussed are shown by maps. Literature data concerning faunistics, ecology, and biological data are reviewed. Female genitalia of L. obliquata Urbahn, L. turkmenica Tsvetajev, and L. luminosata Christoph, are figured and their morphological characters compared with other taxa for the first time. A check list is presented and a preliminary grouping of species treated is proposed, based largely on morphological characters of the genitalia. It does not necessarily reflect a natural relationship of the species included, but may provide a first structure to the genus, as a basis for future studies.
Rediscovery of Rhipidomys ochrogaster J.A. Allen, 1901(Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae) with a redescription of the species
Authors: PACHECO VÍCTOR , PERALTA MARÍA
Published: March 2019

Rhipidomys ochrogaster is a poorly known sigmodontine rodent from the Yungas of southeastern Peru, known only from a few specimens collected more than 110 years ago. This work reports a new specimen from Yanacocha, Puno, Peru, collected on 22 May 2010; provides a morphological description and comparisons with R. leucodactylus and R. gardneri; characterizes the habitat; and presents data on the diet of the species. This discovery stresses the urgent need for additional inventory work in the region, in order to document its biodiversity.
Fanniidae and Muscidae (Insecta, Diptera) associated with burrows of the Altai Mountains Marmot (Marmota baibacina baibacina Kastschenko, 1899) in Siberia, with the description of new species
Authors: SOROKINA VERA S. , PONT ADRIAN C.
Published: March 2019

One species of Fanniidae and eleven species of Muscidae including two new species have been found associated with the burrows of the Altai Marmot. New species are described (Hydrotaea barkalovi sp. nov. and Xestomyia atrox sp. nov.). Some taxonomic additions to the original male description of Fannia altaica Pont & Vikhrev, 2009 and the description of the female of this species are given. The male hypopygium, 5th sternite and abdomen in ventral view of Fannia altaica are figured, as are the legs and habitus of the two new species together with the male hypopygium and 5th sternite of Hydrotaea barkalovi sp. nov. A list of all the Muscidae and Fanniidae recorded as associated with burrows of the three Marmot species (Alpine Marmot, Altai Marmot, Long-Tailed Marmot) is given.
NAnnotated checklist of the tribe Listroderini (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Cyclominae)
Authors: MORRONE JUAN J.
Published: March 2019

The weevil tribe Listroderini (Curculionidae: Cyclominae) was originally recognized for a group of New World taxa. During the last decades its concept was expanded, and additional new taxa were described from the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, and the Tristan da Cunha-Gough islands. This checklist evaluates the nomenclatural status of all the generic and specific names applied to listroderines. A total of 407 species classified into 36 genera are recognized. The following synonymies are established: Gromilus insularis robustus Brookes, 1951 and G. insularis antipodarum Kuschel, 1964 = G. insularis Blanchard, 1853; Gromilus veneris setarius Broun, 1909 = G. veneris (Kirsch, 1877); and Listronotus oregonensis tessellatus Casey, 1895 = L. oregonensis (LeConte, 1876). Two secondary homonyms were detected and replacement names are proposed: Gromilus brounii for G. setosus (Broun, 1917 non Broun, 1893), and Gromilus kuschelii for G. striatus (Broun, 1921 non Broun, 1915).
New species, new records and redescriptions of Thecate hydroids (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa: Leptothecata) from Southern Australia
Authors: WATSON JEANETTE E.
Published: March 2019

A collection of 13 species from southern Australia is described. The collection includes Campanulina cliftonia n. sp., Campanulina elata n. sp., Hebella albida n. sp., Antennella singulata n. sp., Ventromma bellarensis n. sp., Sertularella mytila n. sp., and Obelia spongicola n. sp. Hydranthea margarica is a new record of the genus from Australia; five other species previously recorded from Australia are redescribed in detail. The reproductive structure of Macrorhynchia whiteleggei is described for the first time allowing for a new genus species combination. Notes are given on distribution and ecology.
A New Indobathynella Species from an Indian Cave. The First Cavernicolous Bathynellidae (Syncarida: Bathynellacea) from South-eastern India
Authors: SHAIK SHABUDDIN
Published: March 2019

Indobathynella socrates n. sp. is described from Karaiguda Cave in the Visakhapatnam District of Andhra Pradesh state, south-eastern India. This is the first cavernicolous species of Indobathynella, which is incidentally the most reduced genus in the family Bathynellidae as a whole. The type species of this genus, Indobathynella prehensilis, is from a farm bore. The new species fulfils all the principal generic criteria of Indobathynella, but is distinctly different from I. prehensilis in several essential features: absence of subapical seta on antennary exopod; 4 claws on distal maxillulary endite; 6 teeth on mandibular gnathobase, and uropodal exopod without ventro-medial seta. These and all other salient differences between the two species are tabulated. Besides providing brief notes on conservation and biogeography of the new species, a key to all the known Indian taxa of Bathynellidae is given for the first time.
Recent Strengthening of Greenland Blocking Drives Summertime Surface Warming over Northern Canada and Eastern Siberia
Authors: Wang Sai , Nath Debashis , Chen Wen , Wang Lin
Published: March 2019

In the last three decades, rapid surface warming is observed in the land areas of northern high latitudes during boreal summer months. Although the warming trend is thought to be driven by early snowmelt, the exact causes, especially its relationship with atmospheric circulation changes, remain a subject of debate. By analyzing ERA-Interim data, this study examines the possible factors for rapid subarctic warming. It is found that more than half of the warming trend over the entire subarctic and 80% over northern Canada and eastern Siberia (regions with maximum amplification) can be explained by enhanced downward infrared radiation (IR). Downward IR is largely driven by horizontal atmospheric moisture flux convergence and warm-air advection. The positive trend in geopotential height over the Greenland region is key for moisture flux convergence over northern Canada and eastern Siberia through changes in the storm tracks. An enhanced summertime blocking activity in the Greenland region seems responsible for the positive trend in geopotential heights.
Mechanisms of Seasonal Soil Moisture Drought Onset and Termination in the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Seager Richard , Nakamura Jennifer , Ting Mingfang
Published: March 2019

Mechanisms of drought onset and termination are examined across North America with a focus on the southern Plains using data from land surface models and regional and global reanalyses for 1979–2017. Continental-scale analysis of covarying patterns reveals a tight coupling between soil moisture change over time and intervening precipitation anomalies. The southern Great Plains are a geographic center of patterns of hydrologic change. Drying is induced by atmospheric wave trains that span the Pacific and North America and place northerly flow anomalies above the southern Plains. In the southern Plains winter is least likely, and fall most likely, for drought onset and spring is least likely, and fall or summer most likely, for drought termination. Southern Plains soil moisture itself, which integrates precipitation over time, has a clear relationship to tropical Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies with cold conditions favoring dry soils. Soil moisture change, however, though clearly driven by precipitation, has a weaker relation to SSTs and a strong relation to internal atmospheric variability. Little evidence is found of connection of drought onset and termination to driving by temperature anomalies. An analysis of particular drought onsets and terminations on the seasonal time scale reveals commonalities in terms of circulation and moisture transport anomalies over the southern Plains but a variety of ways in which these are connected into the large-scale atmosphere and ocean state. Some onsets are likely to be quite predictable due to forcing by cold tropical Pacific SSTs (e.g., fall 2010). Other onsets and all terminations are likely not predictable in terms of ocean conditions.
Simultaneous Parameter Optimization of an Arctic Sea Ice–Ocean Model by a Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Sumata Hiroshi , Kauker Frank , Karcher Michael , Gerdes Rüdiger
Published: March 2019

Improvement and optimization of numerical sea ice models are of great relevance for understanding the role of sea ice in the climate system. They are also a prerequisite for meaningful prediction. To improve the simulated sea ice properties, we develop an objective parameter optimization system for a coupled sea ice–ocean model based on a genetic algorithm. To take the interrelation of dynamic and thermodynamic model parameters into account, the system is set up to optimize 15 model parameters simultaneously. The optimization is minimizing a cost function composed of the model–observation misfit of three sea ice quantities (concentration, drift, and thickness). The system is applied for a domain covering the entire Arctic and northern North Atlantic Ocean with an optimization window of about two decades (1990–2012). It successfully improves the simulated sea ice properties not only during the period of optimization but also in a validation period (2013–16). The similarity of the final values of the cost function and the resulting sea ice fields from a set of 11 independent optimizations suggest that the obtained sea ice fields are close to the best possible achievable by the current model setup, which allows us to identify limitations of the model formulation. The optimized parameters are applied for a simulation with a higher-resolution model to examine a portability of the parameters. The result shows good portability, while at the same time, it shows the importance of the oceanic conditions for the portability.
Incremental passivity-based H∞ output tracking control for switched nonlinear systems
Authors: Liu Shuo , Pang Hongbo , Li Chensong
Published: March 2019

This paper is concerned with the problem of H∞ output tracking control for a class of switched nonlinear systems with external disturbances using incremental passivity, even if the problem of H∞ output tracking control for none of subsystems is solvable. First, an incremental passivity concept of switched nonlinear systems without external disturbances is proposed. This incremental passivity property requires each active subsystem is incrementally passive. Then, sufficient conditions to be incrementally passive are given. Second, by resorting to the established incremental passivity theory, a state-dependent switching law and a set of feedback controllers are designed to solve the problem of H∞ output tracking control for a class of switched nonlinear systems with external disturbances. This avoids solving Hamilton-Jacobi (HJ) inequality. Third, a composite state-dependent switching law and the state feedback controllers are designed to solve the H∞ output tracking problem for a class of cascaded switched nonlinear systems with external disturbances. The designed composite switching law allows the driven switched system and the driving switched system switch asynchronously. Finally, two examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Discharge Delay in Head and Neck Free Flap Surgery: Risk Factors and Strategies to Minimize Hospital Days
Authors: Lang Dustin M. , Danan Deepa , Sawhney Raja , Silver Natalie L. , Varadarajan Varun V. , Balamohan Sanjeev , Bernard Stewart H. , Boyce Brian J. , Dziegielewski Peter T.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Length of stay (LOS) includes time medically necessary in the hospital and time waiting for discharge (DC) afterward. This DC delay is determined in head and neck free flap patients. Reasons for and factors leading to DC delay, as well as associated adverse outcomes, are elucidated.

Methods

Retrospective chart review was performed for all head and neck free flap surgeries from 2012 to 2017. Data including demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative factors were collected. Regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with DC delay.

Results

In total, 264 patients were included. Mean total LOS was 13.1 days. DC delay occurred in 65% of patients with a mean of 4.8 days. Factors associated with DC delay on univariate analysis included Medicaid/self‐pay insurance, DC to a facility, and not having children (P <. 05). Multivariate analysis showed prolonged medically necessary LOS and surgery on a Monday/Friday (P <. 05) were associated with DC delay. Top reasons for DC delay included case management shortages, rejection by facility, and awaiting supplies. Eleven percent experienced complications during the DC delay.

Discussion

DC delay can add days and complications to the LOS. Prevention begins preoperatively with DC planning involving the patient's closest family. Understanding limitations of the patient's insurance may help plan DC destination. Optimizing hospital resources when available should be a focus.

Implications for Practice

Head and neck free flap patients require a team of teams unified in optimizing quality of care. DC delay is a novel quality metric reflecting the team's overall performance. Through strategic DC planning and capitalizing on available resources, DC delay can be minimized.
Continuous Vagal Neuromonitoring Using the Laryngeal Adductor Reflex: Can Preincision Dyssynchrony Predict Intraoperative Nerve Behavior?
Authors: Roldan Maria De Los Angeles Sanchez , Téllez Maria J. , Ulkatan Sedat , Sinclair Catherine F.
Published: March 2019

Objective

The laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) is an airway‐protective response triggered by sensory laryngeal receptors and resulting in bilateral vocal fold adduction. The normal morphology of the early R1 response resembles that of the compound muscle action potential (CMAP). However, in a small subset of patients, the morphology is dyssynchronous with multiple peaks. This study investigates whether preoperative LAR dyssynchrony predicts intraoperative nerve behavior during thyroid surgeries.

Study Design

Retrospective case‐control study.

Setting

US academic health center.

Subjects and Methods

Opening and closing LAR waveforms from 200 patients with normal preoperative laryngeal examinations monitored continuously during thyroid surgeries using the LAR were analyzed. Area under the curve (AUC) and number of “events” during surgery (defined as any transient decline in AUC >50% baseline) were determined for patients who demonstrated opening dyssynchronous LAR traces compared to demographically matched controls.

Results

Six patients had opening dyssynchronous LAR traces. These patients had significantly greater declines in R1 AUC than demographically matched patients with opening synchronized R1 traces (P =. 007). Upon thyroid removal, 1 patient converted from a dyssynchronous to synchronous trace.

Conclusions

Preincision dyssynchronous LAR waveforms may indicate subclinical, potentially reversible, neuropathy of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and predict intraoperative RLN behavior. Preincision knowledge of R1 dyssynchrony can facilitate surgical planning as such patients may glean particular benefit from continuous intraoperative nerve monitoring, frequent tissue relaxation, and saline irrigation as means to minimize nerve stress intraoperatively.
Low thalamostriate venous quantitative susceptibility measurements correlate with higher presenting NIH stroke scale score in emergent large vessel occlusion stroke
Authors: Kim Paggie , Langheinrich Kristofer , Cristiano Brian , Grigsby Phillip , Oyoyo Udo , Kido Daniel , Paul Jacobson J.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Hyperacute stroke affects various patient subgroups who may benefit from different management strategies. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) is a recent MRI technique for measuring deoxyhemoglobin levels. The results of QSM thus have the potential to act as a quantitative biomarker for predicting the success of endovascular interventions.

Methods

Twenty-five patients with M1 occlusions were evaluated retrospectively. QSM measurements were obtained based on susceptibility-weighted imaging sequences from the most prominent veins in each of the four standard regions of interest: the cortical and thalamostriate veins ipsilateral and contralateral to the side of the stroke. The results were analyzed using Wilcoxon’s signed rank test and compared with presenting National Institutes of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) score.

Results

Cortical veins ipsilateral to the stroke showed the greatest elevation in susceptibility compared with all other vein groups. Both ipsilateral and contralateral thalamostriate vein susceptibilities showed strong inverse correlation with presenting NIHSS score.

Conclusion

Thalamostriate vein susceptibility shows a strong inverse correlation with presenting NIHSS in adult patients with hyperacute stroke who are selected for endovascular intervention by advanced imaging.
An Alternative Experimental Method for Measuring the Low Temperature Rheological Properties of Asphalt Binder by Using 4mm Parallel Plates on Dynamic Shear Rheometer
Authors: Wang Di , Cannone Falchetto Augusto , Alisov Alexander , Schrader Johannes , Riccardi Chiara , Wistuba Michael P.
Published: March 2019

The possibility of using the dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) with 4 mm parallel plates and 3 mm gap is investigated as an alternative experimental method to measure the rheological properties of asphalt binders at low temperature. A special butterfly silicone mold was prepared for this purpose and the corresponding testing procedure was also developed. Five different asphalt binders, which are part of two active research projects, were selected. Frequency and temperature sweep tests were conducted using the DSR with three plate–plate geometries: 4 mm, 8 mm, and 25 mm. The new testing procedure was used to measure at low temperatures. The method recently proposed by the Western Research Institute and based on DSR tests with 4 mm parallel plates and 1.75 mm gap was also used for comparison purposes. Black diagrams and Cole-Cole plots were then used to evaluate the experimental data. Complex modulus and phase angle master curves were generated, and the rheological parameters compared. Finally, the two spring, two parabolic elements, one dashpot (2S2P1D) model was selected to investigate the rheological properties of the binders. Results indicate that the proposed procedure is a simple and reliable experimental method and represents an alternative experimental option to measure and analyze the rheological properties of asphalt binders at low temperature.
Mentoring and Job Search Behaviors: A Moderated Mediation Model of Job Search Self-Efficacy
Authors: Kao Kuo-Yang , Lee Hui-Ting , Rogers Altovise , Hsu Hao-Hsin , Lin Mi-Ting
Published: March 2019

Limited research exists around how to effectively enhance the job search behaviors and self-efficacy of job seekers during the job search process. In the current study, we investigated whether mentoring functions (i.e., career and psychosocial functions) are related to job search behaviors through job search self-efficacy. Moreover, we tested the interactive effects of career mentoring and psychosocial mentoring on job search self-efficacy and job search behaviors. Two-wave panel data were collected from 164 college students in China to test our hypotheses. The results indicated that psychosocial mentoring was related to job search behaviors both directly and indirectly through job search self-efficacy. In addition, our results revealed that the interactive effects of career mentoring and psychosocial mentoring on job search self-efficacy and on job search behaviors through job search self-efficacy were stronger when career and psychosocial mentoring were high. The implications of the study’s findings and directions for future research are offered.
α-Synuclein Expression Is Preserved in Substantia Nigra GABAergic Fibers of Young and Aged Neurotoxin-Treated Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Vermilyea Scott C. , Guthrie Scott , Hernandez Iliana , Bondarenko Viktorya , Emborg Marina E.
Published: March 2019

α-Synuclein (α-syn) is a small presynaptic protein distributed ubiquitously in the central and peripheral nervous system. In normal conditions, α-syn is found in soluble form, while in Parkinson’s disease (PD) it may phosphorylate, aggregate, and combine with other proteins to form Lewy bodies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate, in nonhuman primates, whether α-syn expression is affected by age and neurotoxin challenge. Young adult ( n = 5, 5–10 years old) and aged ( n = 4, 23–25 years old) rhesus monkeys received a single unilateral carotid artery injection of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Three months post-MPTP the animals were necropsied by transcardiac perfusion, and their brains extracted and processed with immunohistochemical methods. Quantification of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive substantia nigra (SN) neurons showed a significant 80–89% decrease in the side ipsilateral to MPTP administration in young and old animals. Optical density of TH- immunoreactivity (-ir) in the caudate and putamen presented a 60–70% loss compared with the contralateral side. α-Syn-ir was present in both ipsi- and contra- lateral MPTP-treated nigra, caudate, and putamen, mostly in fibers; its intracellular distribution was not affected by age. Comparison of α-syn-ir between MPTP-treated young and aged monkeys revealed significantly higher optical density for both the ipsi- and contralateral caudate and SN in the aged animals. TH and α-syn immunofluorescence confirmed the loss of nigral TH-ir dopaminergic neurons in the MPTP-treated side of intoxicated animals, but bilateral α-syn expression. Colabeling of GAD67 and α-syn immunofluorescence showed that α-syn expression was present mainly in GABAergic fibers. Our results demonstrate that, 3 months post unilateral intracarotid artery infusion of MPTP, α-syn expression in the SN is largely present in GABAergic fibers, regardless of age. Bilateral increase of α-syn expression in SN fibers of aged, compared with young rhesus monkeys, suggests that α-syn-ir may increase with age, but not after neurotoxin-induced dopaminergic nigral cell loss.
How the Belt and Road Initiative Can Help Strengthen the Role of the SCO and Deepen China’s Cooperation with Russia and the Countries of Central Asia
Authors: Na-Xi Lu , Meng-Fang Huang , Shan-Bing Lu
Published: March 2019

China and Russia issued a joint statement on 8 May 2015 outlining the main approaches to linking the Silk Road Economic Belt (SREB) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) projects. Both parties believe that to build the ‘Belt and Road’ project, it is necessary to use economic integration laws and actively enhance the role of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SOC) in stimulating regional economic cooperation, promoting construction of the SREB and linkage to and cooperation with the EAEU, creating a Free Trade Area (FTA) in the Asia-Pacific region (APR) and simultaneously begin creating a similar FTA among China, Russia and Central Asia to gradually stimulate interstate trade and promote regional economic development, actively developing—along with an improved model of energy cooperation—infrastructure and related industry and strengthening business contacts and jointly promoting construction of the SREB.
Accountability of the ECB’s supervisory activities (SSM): Evolving and responsive
Authors: Nicolaides Phedon
Published: March 2019

This article develops a theory of accountability as a means of increasing regulatory effectiveness in complex policy environments and applies it to the supervisory powers that have been assigned to the European Central Bank through the Single Supervisory Mechanism. It finds that the use of the Single Supervisory Mechanism by the European Central Bank has been evolving. The Single Supervisory Mechanism / European Central Bank has expanded and improved the information it provides to other European Union institutions and the public, and has progressively elaborated the explanation of its decisions and regulatory instruments. These developments are welcome because they are indications of an accountable institution that seeks to demonstrate how its actions meet its obligations. However, there is still lack of a performance benchmark against which the actions of the Single Supervisory Mechanism /European Central Bank can be evaluated and of expert review of Single Supervisory Mechanism /European Central Bank decisions. In complex policy environments it is not possible for outsiders to assess the soundness of regulatory actions without access to confidential information. Therefore, this article proposes that the European Parliament establishes a policy or regulatory audit by external experts who can assess such information on a confidential basis.
Relationship Between the Reciprocal Change in Inflammation-Related Biomarkers (Fibrinogen-to-Albumin and hsCRP-to-Albumin Ratios) and the Presence and Severity of Coronary Slow Flow
Authors: Kayapinar Osman , Ozde Cem , Kaya Adnan
Published: March 2019

Inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, and microvascular coronary dysfunction. In this context, it is thought that fibrinogen, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and albumin may be associated with the pathogenesis of coronary slow flow (CSF). We aimed to evaluate the ratios of fibrinogen-to-albumin and hsCRP-to-albumin in patients with CSF compared to patients with angiographically normal coronary arteries and stable coronary artery disease (CAD). In all, 65 patients with CSF, 65 patients with newly diagnosed stable CAD, and 65 control participants with angiographically normal coronary arteries were included. The coronary flow rates of all patients were determined by the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction frame count method. Fibrinogen, hsCRP, and albumin levels were analyzed in all patients, and the fibrinogen-to-albumin and hsCRP-to-albumin ratios were calculated. The baseline characteristics of the 3 groups were similar. The plasma albumin level was significantly lower, whereas the fibrinogen and the hsCRP levels were significantly higher, in the CSF and CAD groups compared to the controls. The fibrinogen-to-albumin and hsCRP-to-albumin ratios were significantly higher in both the CSF and the CAD groups compared to the control group. The hsCRP-to-albumin ratio was positively correlated with the mean Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction frame count in the whole study population. According to the receiver–operating characteristic analysis, the efficacies of the fibrinogen-to-albumin and hsCRP-to-albumin ratios in predicting CSF were significant. The fibrinogen-to-albumin and hsCRP-to-albumin ratios, which were increased by a reciprocal change, suggest that inflammation may play a role in the pathogenesis of CSF.
Peritoneal Dialysis and Malignancy: An Experience With a Patient Complicated by Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: Akimoto Tetsu , Muto Shigeaki , Kutsuwada Tatsuya , Kutsuwada Keiko , Nagata Daisuke
Published: March 2019

An 86-year-old man who had been treated with peritoneal dialysis for 14°months due to end-stage kidney disease secondary to hypertensive nephrosclerosis presented with a recent history of malaise, abdominal discomfort, and anorexia. An endoscopic evaluation revealed an elevated, ulcerated, and friable lesion around the lesser curvature of the stomach. The concurrent gastric biopsy specimens revealed moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, while a cytological examination of the dialysis fluid revealed clusters of malignant cells. This is the first report illustrating a case of a Borrmann type 3 gastric cancer with synchronous peritoneal involvement in which the assessment of the disease state was aided by the cytological analysis of peritoneal effluent. Several concerns relating to this pathology are also discussed.
Lack of Transmission of Zika Virus Infection to Breastfed Infant
Authors: Hemachudha Pasin , Wacharapluesadee Supaporn , Buathong Rome , Petcharat Sininat , Bunprakob Saowalak , Ruchiseesarod Chanida , Roeksomtawin Pankeaw , Hemachudha Thiravat
Published: March 2019

Zika virus (ZIKV) continues to affect certain parts of the World. Here we report a case that supports breastfeeding regardless of mother ZIKV status by providing clinical and virological studies.