bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synchrones Endometrium- und Ovarialkarzinom: Eine Fallserie
Authors: Makris Georgios-Marios , Manousopoulou Georgia , Battista Marco-Johannes , Salloum Ioannis , Chrelias Georgios , Chrelias Charalampos
Published: April 2018

Das synchrone Endometrium- und Ovarialkarzinom (SEOC) kommt selten vor, macht aber 50-70% aller synchronen Tumoren des weiblichen Genitaltrakts aus. Wir berichten hier über drei Fälle von Frauen, bei denen ein SEOC diagnostiziert und ein chirurgisches Staging durchgeführt wurde. Alle Fälle waren vom endometrioiden Subtyp und vom Malignitätsgrad 1 sowohl in der Ovarial- als auch in der Endometriumkomponente. Zwei Fälle waren im Stadium Ia/Ia, der dritte im Stadium Ib/Ib. Mehr als 2 Jahre nach der Diagnose waren alle Patientinnen weiterhin am Leben und rezidivfrei. Der vorliegende Bericht enthält eine kritische Diskussion der Hauptmerkmale, Risikofaktoren und des Managements von Patientinnen mit SEOC. Übersetzung aus Case Rep Oncol 2017;10:732-736.
Medical Therapy of Constipation: Current Standards and Beyond
Authors: Andresen Viola , Layer Peter
Published: April 2018

Chronic constipation is a very common medical problem with relevant impact on the patients' quality of life. Modern definitions recognize constipation as a polysymptomatic disorder, including various aspects of disturbed defecation. Current guidelines recommend a stepwise approach in the management of chronic constipation. Isolated or concomitant evacuation disorders should be identified and may need differential/additional treatment. Baseline measures include lifestyle components and bulking agents. The next step recommends treatment with conventional laxatives. In refractory patients, modern medical therapies, such as the prokinetic prucalopride or the secretagogues linalotide or lubiprostone, may be used effectively. For patients with opioid-induced constipation, the modern concept of peripherally acting µ-opioid antagonists has shown to successfully improve this increasing medical problem and even to potentially increase survival time in terminally ill patients on opioid therapy. Prolonged-released oral naloxone (in fixed combination with oxycodone), oral naloxegol or naldemedine, and subcutaneous methylnaltrexone have all demonstrated good efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of opioid-induced constipation. To adequately apply stepwise treatment algorithms, a simple tool to identify treatment failure may improve patient care.
Is Optimism Associated With Healthier Cardiovascular-Related Behavior?
Authors: Boehm Julia K. , Chen Ying , Koga Hayami , Mathur Maya B. , Vie Loryana L. , Kubzansky Laura D.
Published: April 2018

Optimistic people have reduced risk for cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular-related mortality compared with their less optimistic peers. One explanation for this is that optimistic people may be more likely to engage in healthy behavior like exercising frequently, eating fruits and vegetables, and avoiding cigarette smoking. However, researchers have not formally determined the extent or direction of optimism’s association with health behaviors. Moreover, it is unclear whether optimism temporally precedes health behaviors or whether the relationship is because of shared common causes. We conducted random effects meta-analyses examining optimism’s association with 3 health behaviors relevant for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. PubMed and PsycINFO databases were searched for studies published through November 2017 reporting on optimism’s relationship with physical activity, diet, and cigarette smoking. We identified 34 effect sizes for physical activity (n=90 845), 15 effect sizes for diet (n=47 931), and 15 effect sizes for cigarette smoking (n=15 052). Findings suggested that more optimistic individuals tended to engage in healthier behaviors compared with less optimistic individuals, but effect sizes were modest (
r
activity
=0.07,
P
<0.0001;
r
diet
=0.12,
P
<0.0001; and
r
smoking
=0.07,
P
=0.001). Most evidence was cross-sectional (≥53% of effect sizes) and did not consider sociodemographic characteristics (<53% of effect sizes) or psychological distress (<27% of effect sizes) as potential confounders. Optimism is associated with healthier behaviors that protect against cardiovascular disease, although most evidence was relatively low quality. Additional longitudinal and experimental research is required to determine whether optimism causally contributes to healthy behaviors and whether optimism could be an effective target for preventing cardiovascular disease.
RBM20 Mutations Induce an Arrhythmogenic Dilated Cardiomyopathy Related to Disturbed Calcium Handling
Authors: van den Hoogenhof Maarten M.G. , Beqqali Abdelaziz , Amin Ahmad S. , van der Made Ingeborg , Aufiero Simona , Khan Mohsin A.F. , Schumacher Cees A. , Jansweijer Joeri A. , van Spaendonck-Zwarts Karin Y. , Remme Carol Ann , Backs Johannes , Verkerk Arie O. , Baartscheer Antonius , Pinto Yigal M. , Creemers Esther E.
Published: April 2018

Background:

Mutations in RBM20 (RNA-binding motif protein 20) cause a clinically aggressive form of dilated cardiomyopathy, with an increased risk of malignant ventricular arrhythmias. RBM20 is a splicing factor that targets multiple pivotal cardiac genes, such as Titin (TTN) and CAMK2D (calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II delta). Aberrant TTN splicing is thought to be the main determinant of RBM20-induced dilated cardiomyopathy, but is not likely to explain the increased risk of arrhythmias. Here, we investigated the extent to which RBM20 mutation carriers have an increased risk of arrhythmias and explore the underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods:

We compared clinical characteristics of RBM20 and TTN mutation carriers and used our previously generated Rbm20 knockout (KO) mice to investigate downstream effects of Rbm20-dependent splicing. Cellular electrophysiology and Ca
2+
measurements were performed on isolated cardiomyocytes from Rbm20 KO mice to determine the intracellular consequences of reduced Rbm20 levels.

Results:

Sustained ventricular arrhythmias were more frequent in human RBM20 mutation carriers than in TTN mutation carriers (44% versus 5%, respectively,
P
=0.006). Splicing events that affected Ca
2+
- and ion-handling genes were enriched in Rbm20 KO mice, most notably in the genes CamkIIδ and RyR2. Aberrant splicing of CamkIIδ in Rbm20 KO mice resulted in a remarkable shift of CamkIIδ toward the δ-A isoform that is known to activate the L-type Ca
2+
current (
I
Ca,L
). In line with this, we found an increased
I
Ca,L
, intracellular Ca
2+
overload and increased sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
content in Rbm20 KO myocytes. In addition, not only complete loss of Rbm20, but also heterozygous loss of Rbm20 increased spontaneous sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
releases, which could be attenuated by treatment with the
I
Ca,L
antagonist verapamil.

Conclusions:

We show that loss of Rbm20 disturbs Ca
2+
handling and leads to more proarrhythmic Ca
2+
releases from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Patients that carry a pathogenic RBM20 mutation have more ventricular arrhythmias despite a similar left ventricular function, in comparison with patients with a TTN mutation. Our experimental data suggest that RBM20 mutation carriers may benefit from treatment with an
I
Ca,L
blocker to reduce their arrhythmia burden.
Errors in Electronic Health Record–Based Data Query of Statin Prescriptions in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease in a Large, Academic, Multispecialty Clinic Practice
Authors: Shin Eric Y. , Ochuko Patricia , Bhatt Kunal , Howard Brian , McGorisk Gerard , Delaney Linda , Langdon Kristan , Khosravanipour Marjan , Nambi Andiran A. , Grahovec Allison , Morris Douglas C. , Castellano Penny Z. , Shaw Leslee J. , Sperling Laurence S. , Goyal Abhinav
Published: April 2018

Background

With the recent implementation of the Medicare Quality Payment Program, providers face increasing accountability for delivering high‐quality care. Such pay‐for‐performance programs aim to leverage systematic data captured by electronic health record (
EHR
) systems to measure performance; however, the fidelity of
EHR
query for assessing performance has not been validated compared with manual chart review. We sought to determine whether our institution's methodology of
EHR
query could accurately identify cases in which providers failed to prescribe statins for eligible patients with coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results

A total of 9459 patients with coronary artery disease were seen at least twice at the Emory Clinic between July 2014 and June 2015, of whom 1338 (14.1%, 95% confidence interval 13.5–14.9%) had no statin prescription or exemption per
EHR
query. A total of 120 patient cases were randomly selected and reviewed by 2 physicians for further adjudication. Of the 120 cases initially classified as statin prescription failures, only 21 (17.5%; 95% confidence interval, 11.7–25.3%) represented true failure following physician review.

Conclusions

Sole reliance on
EHR
data query to measure quality metrics may lead to significant errors in assessing provider performance. Institutions should be cognizant of these potential sources of error, provide support to medical providers, and form collaborative data management teams to promote and improve meaningful use of
EHR
s. We propose actionable steps to improve the accuracy of
EHR
data query that require hypothesis testing and prospective validation in future studies.
Human Neural Stem Cell Extracellular Vesicles Improve Recovery in a Porcine Model of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Webb Robin L. , Kaiser Erin E. , Jurgielewicz Brian J. , Spellicy Samantha , Scoville Shelley L. , Thompson Tyler A. , Swetenburg Raymond L. , Hess David C. , West Franklin D. , Stice Steven L.
Published: April 2018

Background and Purpose—

Recent work from our group suggests that human neural stem cell–derived extracellular vesicle (NSC EV) treatment improves both tissue and sensorimotor function in a preclinical thromboembolic mouse model of stroke. In this study, NSC EVs were evaluated in a pig ischemic stroke model, where clinically relevant end points were used to assess recovery in a more translational large animal model.

Methods—

Ischemic stroke was induced by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), and either NSC EV or PBS treatment was administered intravenously at 2, 14, and 24 hours post-MCAO. NSC EV effects on tissue level recovery were evaluated via magnetic resonance imaging at 1 and 84 days post-MCAO. Effects on functional recovery were also assessed through longitudinal behavior and gait analysis testing.

Results—

NSC EV treatment was neuroprotective and led to significant improvements at the tissue and functional levels in stroked pigs. NSC EV treatment eliminated intracranial hemorrhage in ischemic lesions in NSC EV pigs (0 of 7) versus control pigs (7 of 8). NSC EV–treated pigs exhibited a significant decrease in cerebral lesion volume and decreased brain swelling relative to control pigs 1-day post-MCAO. NSC EVs significantly reduced edema in treated pigs relative to control pigs, as assessed by improved diffusivity through apparent diffusion coefficient maps. NSC EVs preserved white matter integrity with increased corpus callosum fractional anisotropy values 84 days post-MCAO. Behavior and mobility improvements paralleled structural changes as NSC EV–treated pigs exhibited improved outcomes, including increased exploratory behavior and faster restoration of spatiotemporal gait parameters.

Conclusions—

This study demonstrated for the first time that in a large animal model novel NSC EVs significantly improved neural tissue preservation and functional levels post-MCAO, suggesting NSC EVs may be a paradigm changing stroke therapeutic.
Costs and benefits of post-weaning associations in mountain goats
Authors: Charest Castro Karina , Leblond Mathieu , Côté Steeve D.
Published: April 2018

To better understand the potential costs and benefits of prolonged parental care in gregarious species, we studied post-weaning associations in a marked population of mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus) monitored for 22 years. We calculated the occurrence and frequency of associations involving 1- and 2-year-old juveniles. We investigated (1) the influence of maternal characteristics and population size on the formation of post-weaning associations, (2) the short-term costs of associations on maternal reproductive success, and (3) the short-term benefits of associations on life-history traits of juveniles. We found that barren mothers associated more frequently with 1-year-olds than summer yeld and lactating mothers. Associations with 2-year-olds tended to increase the probability that a mother would be barren the following year. Post-weaning associations did not influence the body mass of newborn kids nor the body mass and survival of juveniles. We discuss how benefits for associated juveniles may appear later in life.
Mucron morphology in male entomopathogenic nematodes of the Steinernematidae (Nematoda)
Authors: Mráček Zdeněk , Nermuť Jiří , Půža Vladimír
Published: April 2018

The mucron in male steinernematid nematodes may be missing or present either in the first or second generation, or missing in both generations, with variable shape. However, for many species, the information on mucron morphology is incomplete and its taxonomic significance and distribution remain unclear. The present study assessed mucron morphology in males of 26 species using LM and SEM microscopy. For other species we summarised the published data. Furthermore, ancestral character state reconstruction analysis was performed to assess the distribution of mucron morphology within steinernematid phylogeny. In most species, papilla/spine-like or filamentous mucrons occur at least in the second generation. The species gathered in single phylogenetic groups have a similar mucron morphology. Generally, species with a prominent filamentous mucron belong to the ‘kraussei/feltiae’ and ‘carpocapsae’ groups, whereas mostly non-mucronated species occur in ‘glaseri’ and ‘riobrave’ groups. For future descriptions a precise mucron characterisation in both generations of the male is recommended.
Sinningia × vacariensis (Gesneriaceae) from Southern Brazil, the first natural hybrid described for the genus
Authors: Ferreira Gabriel Emiliano , Waechter Jorge , Chautems Alain
Published: April 2018

In this paper we describe and illustrate Sinningia × vacariensis a naturally occurring hybrid between S. lineata and S. macrostachya, from rocky outcrops inside an Araucaria forest in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Cypsela morphology in the genus Nolletia (Asteraceae, Astereae) and a revision of the genus
Authors: HERMAN PAUL P.J.
Published: April 2018

The genus Nolletia has never been revised. There is no key available to all the species, making identification extremely difficult and resulting in misidentifications. For only a few species there are fairly comprehensive species descriptions available. A complete revision of the genus was undertaken, a key to all the species was drawn up, full descriptions were made and distribution maps were provided. Five new species were described: N. annemarieae, N. annetjieae, N. vanhoepeniae, N. jeanettae and N. welmaniae. One southern African species (N. arenosa) is synonymized under N. chrysocomoides. The genus could be divided into two groups on the grounds of the cypsela morphology: one group has oblong epicarpic cells arranged in parallel rows, seen in surface view, while the other group has circular to elliptic epicarpic cells, seen in surface view. One species was reported to be poisonous to stock. It was previously identified as N. gariepina but is described here as one of the new species, N. vanhoepeniae.
Taxonomic novelties in the fern genus Tectaria (Tectariaceae)
Authors: Ding Hui-Hui , Chao Yi-Shan , Dong Shi-Yong
Published: April 2018

The misapplication of the name Tectaria griffithii is corrected, which results in the revival of T. multicaudata and the proposal of a new combination (T. multicaudata var. amplissima) and two new synonyms (T. yunnanensis and T. multicaudata var. singaporeana). For the reduction of Psomiocarpa and Tectaridium (previously monotypic genera) into Tectaria, T. macleanii (new combination) and T. psomiocarpa (new name) are proposed as new combinations. In addition, the new name Tectaria subvariolosa is put forward to replace a later homonym (T. stenosemioides).
New combinations in Asiatic Oxybasis (Amaranthaceae s.l.): evidence from morphological, carpological and molecular data
Authors: Sukhorukov Alexander P. , Uotila Pertti , Zhang Mingli , Zhang Hong-Xiang , Speranskaya Anna S. , Krinitsyna Anastasiya A.
Published: April 2018

Two new combinations are proposed in Oxybasis (Chenopodioideae, Chenopodiaceae or Amaranthaceae s.l.). Chenopodium micranthum, described from Russia in the 1860s and known as C. urbicum subsp. sinicum in China, is assigned specific rank in Oxybasis. It appears to be widespread in China, Mongolia, Kazakhstan and Asiatic Russia. The Siberian-Mongolian C. gubanovii, recently described as a new species in Chenopodium sect. Pseudoblitum, is also assigned to Oxybasis. Molecular phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood (ML) and maximum parsimony (MP) methods confirmed the placement of C. micranthum and C. gubanovii in the genus Oxybasis. Distribution maps of O. micrantha and O. gubanovii are provided, the latter species being reported for the first time in the Chinese part of the Altai Mountains. A lectotype for C. micranthum (= O. micrantha) is designated.
A new species of Sporobolus (Poaceae, Chloridoideae) from Trindade Island, Brazil, with comments on the distribution of the genus in the South Atlantic
Authors: Longhi-Wagner Hilda Maria , Alves Ruy José Válka , Silva Nílber Gonçalves da , Guimarães Alessandra Ribeiro
Published: April 2018

Sporobolus nesiotioides (Poaceae) is described as a new species from Trindade Island, Brazil, using morphological and anatomical characters. The species has affinity with the extinct S. durus from Ascension Island. The presence of the genus on other tropical oceanic islands of the South Atlantic is discussed.  Sporobolus nesiotioides (Poaceae) é descrita como nova espécie da Ilha da Trindade, Brasil, usando caracteres morfológicos e anatômicos. Esta espécie tem afinidade com o extinto S. durus, da Ilha de Ascenção. A presença do gênero em outras ilhas oceânicas do Atlântico Sul é discutida.
A new species of Cerastium (Caryophyllaceae) from the Kiamaki-Dagh Mountain, Iran
Authors: POURSAKHI KATAYOUN , ASSADI MOSTAFA , GHAHREMANINEJAD FARROKH , NEJADSATTARI TAHER , MEHREGAN IRAJ
Published: April 2018

Cerastium azerbaijanicum is here described and illustrated as a new species for science. Morphological characteristics in comparison with the related C. argenteum, as well as a full description and distribution of the new taxon are provided.
Contributions to a history of New Zealand lichenology 5*. James Murray (1923–1961)
Authors: Galloway David John
Published: April 2018

James Murray (1923–1961), an organic chemist by profession, was also New Zealand’s first modern lichenologist. Having a wide knowledge of New Zealand plants, and a very competent grasp of post-war natural product chemistry, he was well qualified to take up lichens at a period when chemosystematics was just becoming important in the group. His early published work was to influence the emerging field of lichen bioactive compounds, and 50 years later, generic concepts in the Lobariaceae. Murray’s joint careers in organic chemistry and lichenology were tragically cut short by his early accidental death; his legacy being a handful of papers and an extensive lichen herbarium (now at OTA). However, James Murray’s example and influence have resonated much more widely than these concrete accomplishments. To enable his contributions to be properly appreciated, the present biographical memoir outlines his life, work and legacy to modern lichenology. The genus Yarrumia D.J.Galloway is described in Murray’s honour and two new combinations are made: Y. colensoi (C.Bab.) D.J.Galloway and Y. coronata (Müll.Arg.) D.J.Galloway.
Evolution of species diversity in the genus Chamaecostus (Costaceae): molecular phylogenetics and morphometric approaches
Authors: Andre Thiago Jose de Carvalho , SPECHT CHELSEA , SALZMAN SHAYLA , PALMA-SILVA CLARISSE , WENDT TÂNIA
Published: April 2018

While most species within the genus Chamaecostus (Costaceae) are well defined, the broad geographic range and long list of synonyms associated with Chamaecostus subsessilis led us to believe there may be some cryptic species within the complex. We thus investigate the phylogenetic relationships of species in the Chamaecostus lineage and specifically test the monophyly and diversity of the Chamaecostus subsessilis species complex from a population perspective by analyzing molecular sequence data and leaf morphometrics. We interpret evolutionary trends across the entire genus based on a molecular character-based phylogenetic hypothesis that includes all currently described species of Chamaecostus. Our results show that while Chamaecostus is strongly monophyletic, C. cuspidatus is found to be sister to a clade of some but not all samples of C. subsessilis, making it necessary to acknowledge more than one species in the C. subsessilis complex. Herbarium specimens of the C. subsessilis complex could be assigned based on geographic proximity to one of the major three clades recovered in the phylogenetic analysis. Leaf morphometric measurements were performed on each of these lineages and traits were tested to detect differences among phylogenetic lineages. We conclude by proposing the recognition of a new combination, Chamaecostus acaulis, which we describe.
Ophiocordyceps highlandensis, a new entomopathogenic fungus from Yunnan, China
Authors: Yang Zhu L. , Qin Jiao , Xia Chengfeng , Hu Qun , Li Qing-Qing
Published: April 2018

A new species of Ophiocordycipitaceae, Ophiocordyceps highlandensis, from southwestern China is described using morphological and molecular evidence. It is morphologically characterized by the combination of the following characters: dark-brown to blackish stromata on larvae of Scarabaeidae, fully immersed perithecia with non-protruding ostioles, 3-septate filiform ascospores breaking easily into four part-spores (20) 33–55 × 1.5–2 μm and a hymeniform cortex layer of stipe. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using DNA nucleotide sequences of the nuclear ribosomal small subunit, and the genes encoding the largest subunit of RNA polymerase II and the second-largest subunit of RNA polymerase II indicated that O. highlandensis was related to O. konnoana, O. barnesii, O. nigrella, O. ravenelii and O. superficialis. Ophiocordyceps highlandensis and its related species were all characterized by dark-brown stromata and an affinity for melolonthid larval hosts. A description, line drawings, phylogenetic placement and comparison with allied taxa are presented.
Morphological features, nuclear microsatellites and plastid haplotypes reveal hybridisation processes between two sympatric Vriesea species in Brazil (Bromeliaceae)
Authors: MATOS JOSY Z. , JUAN ANA , AGULLÓ JONÁS C. , CRESPO MANUEL B.
Published: April 2018

Natural hybridisation is considered a common fact among species of Bromeliaceae. We here report natural hybridisation between two sympatric Vriesea species, V. incurvata and V. carinata, in the Atlantic Forest of Santa Catarina (southern Brazil), one of the main remnants of the Mata Atlântica forest. Morphological and genetic data were obtained from both parental species and the putative hybrid, individuals of the latter being found to be intermediate between those of the parents. The main differential characters of the nothospecies were the width of the inflorescence and the rachis, length and width of the stigma, and the length of anthers. Moreover, plastid markers and nuclear microsatellites were analysed and we found that the hybrid plants shared genetic information with both parental species, although they showed an overall higher genetic similarity with V. carinata. As a conclusion, the hybrid status of the intermediate plants is accepted and therefore the new nothospecies V. × brueggemannii is described. To date, the presence of the hybrids is restricted to regeneration sites, a fact that points out to the need for preservation of the secondary vegetation as an effective tool for conservation of biodiversity.
Description of Tovomita clarkii (Clusiaceae), an endemic species from Venezuela
Authors: MARINHO LUCAS C. , GAHAGEN BENJAMIN , AMORIM ANDRÉ M.
Published: April 2018

Tovomita clarkii is a species endemic to Venezuela. The name of this species was first suggested in 1989 by J.J. Pipoly while labeling herbaria material; however, this species was never officially described. Besides the description, here we provide data on the distribution and conservation status of this new species, and discuss its morphological affinities.
Coleophora meridiogallica Baldizzone, Huemer & Nel, sp. n. from France (Lepidoptera, Coleophoridae)
Authors: BALDIZZONE GIORGIO , HUEMER PETER , NEL JACQUES
Published: April 2018

Coleophora meridiogallica sp. n., a new species detected as a result of a DNA study, is described and compared with C. meridionella Rebel, 1912 with which it was confused. The new species whose larvae feed on Silene saxifraga is known only from a few departments of southeastern France.
4. Ki Symboh Ksiar – Grains of Gold
Authors: Tham Soso
Published: April 2018

The opening lines of Ki Sngi Barim U Hynñiew Trep explain why Soso Tham decided to compose his magnum opus. Saddened by the fact that his people continued to look elsewhere for inspiration while failing to appreciate the cultural wealth into which they are born, he set out to reclaim and record the past – ki sngi barim – that survives in myth. He tells of a time now lost to us when the Khasi and Pnar people who call themselves U Hynñiew Trep, came to be here on earth. This is the ‘Once upon a time’ section of that story referring to legends and tales told and shared, of a common heritage of the imagination that has held a people together.
5. Ka Persyntiew – The Flower Garden
Authors: Tham Soso
Published: April 2018

Evocative of Eden, this section describes the haunting beauty of his homeland. Although the Khasi and Jaiñtia Hills have been plundered for their forest and mineral wealth there still remain large tracts that are heartbreakingly beautiful, able to stir wonder today as they did in the distant past. That poignant longing for what once was is as acute today as it was when Soso Tham composed his masterpiece.
10. Ka Ïing I Mei – Home
Authors: Tham Soso
Published: April 2018

The title can be literally translated into ‘The House that belongs to my Mother’ or ‘My Mother’s Home’. Here ‘Mei’ refers both to the biological mother and to the poet’s homeland, for both have nurtured the poet’s being. With the dawn of hope and light in the preceding section it is natural that the poet now describes what it feels like to be home. He goes back in time to his childhood and to the daily rituals of life where the sacred codes of life are affirmed. He finally moves on to describe the rituals of death looking forward to the concluding lines of Ki Sngi Barim where he talks of arriving at the House of God – the everlasting mother of all homes and sanctuaries. But what is always characteristic and remarkable about Soso Tham is that his presentation of the most weighty and serious of subjects always possesses an inescapable energy. Because for him his culture is one that so obviously lives, he cannot but describe it in dynamic and vivid terms. Even the rendition of the cremation ceremonies is undeniably joyful.
Biomarkers in mesothelioma
Authors: Arnold David T , Maskell Nick A
Published: April 2018

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer of pleural and peritoneal cells that is difficult to diagnose and monitor. Numerous studies have attempted to identify a blood- or pleural fluid-based biomarker that could be used in the diagnostic pathway. More recently, there has been interest in the ability of serum/plasma biomarkers to monitor mesothelioma, given the development of newer treatments and limitations of radiological assessment. The majority of research has focused on soluble mesothelin, a soluble glycoprotein expressed by mesothelial cells. Although soluble mesothelin lacks the sensitivity to be used as a standalone diagnostic marker, serial measurements may be informative, with rising concentrations indicating disease progression and poor survival. High concentrations of other soluble glycoproteins, such as osteopontin, fibulin-3 and vascular endothelial growth factor are independently associated with poor prognosis at baseline, although further research is required to ascertain any role outside of clinical trials. More recent literature has focused on the development of novel biomarkers from discovery cohorts. Although many DNA and mRNA biomarkers show promise in the diagnosis or screening of mesothelioma, none have been prospectively evaluated for use in clinical practice. In this review article, we highlight the potential utility of biomarkers and evaluate the existing literature.
Managing a Complex Global Circular Economy Business Model: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Hopkinson Peter , Zils Markus , Hawkins Philip , Roper Stuart
Published: April 2018

This article presents an in-depth case study detailing the history, experiences, and wider practitioner and policy lessons from a circular economy business model over a 30-year period, highlighting the successes, difficulties, and conflicts of adopting a circular economy model. The case is based on interviews, key documents, and customer insight. The findings demonstrate how sustained circular economy business practices can deliver significant new revenues, resource productivity, and business continuity benefits, but also require managers and practitioners to develop competencies and capabilities, such as balancing linear and circular systems, to address complex and highly dynamic factors, including rapid technological shifts and market volatility.
Muscular and Vascular Issues Induced by Prolonged Standing With Different Work–Rest Cycles With Active or Passive Breaks
Authors: Garcia Maria-Gabriela , Läubli Thomas , Martin Bernard J.
Published: April 2018

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-lasting motor, behavioral, physiological, and perceptual effects of prolonged standing work in three work–rest cycle conditions including passive or active rest breaks.

Background:

Muscle fatigue has been evidenced after prolonged standing work through physiological and neuromotor measures. It has been postulated that muscle fatigue induced by prolonged work could be attenuated by appropriate scheduling of work and rest periods. However, investigations in this domain remain limited.

Method:

Thirty participants simulated standing work for 5 hr with work–rest cycles of short, medium, or long standing periods including passive or active breaks. Lower-leg muscle twitch force (MTF), muscle oxygenation, lower-leg volume, postural stability, force control, and discomfort perception were quantified on 2 days.

Results:

Prolonged standing induced significant changes in all measures immediately after 5 hr of work, indicating a detrimental effect in long-lasting muscle fatigue, performance, discomfort, and vascular aspects. Differences in the measures were not significant between work cycles and/or break type.

Conclusion:

Similar physiological and motor alterations were induced by prolonged standing. The absence of difference in the effects induced by the tested work–rest cycles suggests that simply altering the work–rest cycle may not be sufficient to counteract the effects of mainly static standing work. Finally, standing for 3 hr or more shows clear detrimental effects.

Application:

Prolonged standing is likely to contribute to musculoskeletal and vascular symptoms. A limitation to less than 3 hr of mostly static standing in occupational activities could avoid alterations leading to these symptoms.
Make Beliefs Comix
Authors: Kohnke Lucas
Published: April 2018

Creative use of language is a central tenet of learner-centric pedagogy, and as such has become a big part of today’s language classrooms. Students who are allowed to use their creative impulses are often more engaged during in-class activities (Gregory et al., 2013). This is precisely one of the primary motivators for teachers to leverage students’ creativity in designing pedagogical materials and classroom activities. It is often challenging, however, to apply creativity in the absence of stimulating and engaging content. To address this, one possible means of engaging students is exploiting the potential of comic strips, which are intuitive and straightforward media for students to practise reading, listening, and writing in a second language. For example, Williams and Williams (2011) found that comics can play a role in promoting student-centred learning by offering a motivating canvas upon which students can deploy their creative resources. Further, other recent studies have found that engagement with comics in learning activities led to positive attitudes towards learning, as well as elevated engagement and ownership (Kılıçkaya and Krajka, 2012). One such web-based comic-making application, Make Beliefs Comix, provides features which can potentially be effective in supporting learners to practise a target language in a stimulating and engaging manner.
Influence of melamine formaldehyde microsphere on the vulcanization kinetics and mechanical properties of nitrile butadiene rubber
Authors: Wang Jingyi , Meng Yu , Lu Tao , Zhang Jiabin , Wang Huajin , Sheng Jialiang , Huang Chunhui , Hang Zusheng
Published: April 2018

The melamine formaldehyde (MF) microsphere/nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) vulcanizates were prepared by adding MF into NBR through mechanical mixing, followed by a vulcanization process. The influences of MF on the vulcanization characteristics, vulcanization kinetics, and mechanical properties were investigated. The results showed that MF interacted with NBR through hydrogen bonds. In addition, parameter b calculated by the ratio of modulus and strains also demonstrated the strong interaction between MF and NBR. Adding MF into NBR would reduce the curing time of NBR compounds, and increase the curing rate, as well as the cross-linked density. The vulcanization kinetics of MF/NBR compounds could be simulated accurately by Ghoreishy’s model. The mechanical properties of MF/NBR increased with the incorporation of MF. The modulus at 100%, modulus at 300%, and tensile strength of NBR vulcanizates with 20 parts per hundred rubber MF had 155, 90, and 110% increment, respectively, compared with those of neat NBR. The MF also enhanced the tear strength of NBR by 80% with a rough tear-fractured surface of NBR recorded by scanning electron microscope.
Worker Voice and Union Revitalization: The Role of Contract Enforcement at SEIU
Authors: Avgar Ariel , Boris Monica Bielski , Bruno Robert , Chung Wonjoon
Published: April 2018

This article contributes to the study of union revitalization efforts by exploring the strategic underpinnings of and consideration for a restructured grievance system in a large Service Employees International Union (SEIU) local based in Chicago (hereinafter Local 1). This case study provides for a unique opportunity to examine the role that the structure and process of handling grievances plays in union efforts to mobilize members, increase membership, and pursue broader political objectives that go beyond the traditional-workplace-centered role of unions. Based on this case study, we argue that, irrespective of the associated outcome, the considerations and objectives guiding the facilitation of employee voice and workplace fairness by unions through grievance systems can be broader and more complex than existing research would suggest. More specifically, our case study documents the extent to which the rethinking of the traditional role and structure of contract enforcement is seen by union leadership as offering a potential route for broader revitalization of local unions in the United States.
Child and Parent Access to Transplant Information and Involvement in Treatment Decision Making
Authors: Stegenga Kristin , Pentz Rebecca D. , Alderfer Melissa A. , Pelletier Wendy , Fairclough Diane , Hinds Pamela S.
Published: April 2018

Pediatric stem cell transplant processes require information sharing among the patient, family, and clinicians regarding the child’s condition, prognosis, and transplant procedures. To learn about perceived access to transplant information and involvement in decision making among child family members (9-22 years old), we completed a secondary analysis of 119 interviews conducted with pediatric patients, sibling donors, nondonor siblings/cousins, and guardians from 27 families prior to transplant. Perceptions of information access and involvement in transplant-related decisions were extracted and summarized. We compared child member perceptions to their guardians’ and examined differences by child age and gender. Most child members perceived exclusion from transplant (79%) and donor (63%) information and decisions (63%) although this varied by child role. Gender was unrelated to involvement; older age was associated with less perceived exclusion. Congruence in perspectives across children and guardians was evident for eight (30%) families, most of whom ( n = 7) excluded the children.
Responses to dissatisfaction in friendships and romantic relationships: An interpersonal script analysis
Authors: Harasymchuk Cheryl , Fehr Beverley
Published: April 2018

According to interpersonal script models, people’s responses to relational events are shaped by the reaction they expect from a close other. We analyzed responses to dissatisfaction in close relationships from an interpersonal script perspective. Participants reported on how a close friend or romantic partner would react to their expressions of dissatisfaction (using the exit-voice-loyalty-neglect typology). They were also asked to forecast whether the issue would be resolved (i.e., anticipated outcomes). Our main hypothesis was that people’s expectations for how a close other would respond to dissatisfaction would be dependent on their own self response. Further, we predicted that passive responses would be more common and viewed as less deleterious to a friendship than a romantic relationship. Results indicated that the responses that were expected from close others were contingent on how self responded. Moreover, as predicted, these contingencies followed different tracks depending on the type of relationship. Friends were more likely to expect passive responses to self’s expression of dissatisfaction, especially if self responded with neglect, whereas romantic partners expected more active responses. Furthermore, people anticipated that the issue would be more likely to be resolved if their friend (vs. romantic partner) responded passively and less actively (especially for destructive responses). It was concluded that people hold complex, nuanced interpersonal scripts for dissatisfaction and that these scripts vary, depending on the relationship context.
Citizen Attitudes Towards Public–Private Partnerships
Authors: Boyer Eric J. , Van Slyke David M.
Published: April 2018

This study examines the factors that influence public attitudes toward public–private partnerships (PPPs) through an analysis of public opinion data collected in 2014. Although previous literature has examined public attitudes toward government contracting and asset privatization, there is little understanding of how the public feels about more collaborative forms of public–private interaction. Counter to previous studies that suggest that support for free enterprise and a disdain for government increases support for private involvement in public services, we find that attitudes toward PPPs are nuanced: Respondents favor them not only when they have positive feelings toward the business sector but also when they also report trust in government. PPPs are thus perceived not as a replacement to public administration, but as a delivery model that demands competence and trust of both public and private partners. The results also explain a previously unstudied relationship between respondent familiarity with PPPs and their attitudes toward them. Counter to expectations, we find that the more familiarity that respondents have with PPPs, the more likely they are to view them favorably. We also identify factors that predict public opinions of PPPs which can inform public outreach and public involvement programs involved with PPPs.
Creating energy citizenship through material participation
Authors: Ryghaug Marianne , Skjølsvold Tomas Moe , Heidenreich Sara
Published: April 2018

Transitions towards low-carbon energy systems will be comprehensive and demanding, requiring substantial public support. One important contribution from STS is to highlight the roles of citizens and public engagement. Until recently, energy users have often been treated as customers and passive market actors, or as recipients of technology at the margins of centralized systems. With respect to the latter role, critical or hesitant public action has been explained in terms of NIMBYism and knowledge deficits. This article focuses on the production of energy citizenship when considering public participation in low-carbon energy transitions. We draw upon the theory of ‘material participation’ to highlight how introducing and using emergent energy technologies may create new energy practices. We analyze an ongoing introduction of new material objects, highlighting the way these technologies can be seen as material interventions co-constructing temporalities of new and sustainable practices. We argue that artefacts such as the electric car, the smart meter and photovoltaic panels may become objects of participation and engagement, and that the introduction of such technologies may foster material participation and energy citizenship. The paper concludes with a discussion about the role of policies for low-carbon energy transitions on the making of energy citizenship, as well as limits of introducing a materially based energy citizenship.
Private Shuttles and Public Transportation: Effects of Shared Transit Stops on Travel Time and Reliability in Seattle
Authors: Lewis Elyse O’C. , MacKenzie Don , Clewlow Regina
Published: April 2018

An Employer Shared Transit Stop (ESTS) pilot was introduced in April, 2017 by the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) and King County Metro (KCM). Eleven bus stops within the City of Seattle were identified for stop-sharing with private shuttles that serve employees of and are operated by Microsoft and Seattle Children’s Hospital, respectively. This study utilizes real-time transit performance data that was generated by KCM, then collected and aggregated by the company Swiftly to assess the impacts of the ESTS program on bus transit reliability. Data analyses based on visualization tools on the Swiftly Insights platform of route-level schedule adherence as well as fixed panel regressions at the mean and at the 0.90 and 0.95 quantile of stop-level schedule adherence are considered. On average, bus transit reliability has not been affected by the ESTS pilot program. Statistically significant results indicating a potential delay in bus arrival times as a result of ESTS stop-sharing were found at only one of the nine stops considered in the study. An increase in participating companies and stops is recommended.
Strict and Deep Comparison of Revealed Transit Trip Structure between Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview Household Travel Survey and Smart Cards
Authors: Chapleau Robert , Gaudette Philippe , Spurr Tim
Published: April 2018

Large sample household travel surveys (HTSs) are an essential tool for the planning of urban transit systems. The progressive adoption by transit agencies of fare collection systems based on smart cards (SCs) has, for the first time, provided opportunities to compare the survey data with detailed, population-level data collected independently. These comparisons have produced some surprising results. Although the underreporting of non-home-based and off-peak trips was to be expected, the significant overestimation of transit use during peak periods was not anticipated. Using the Greater Montreal Area as a case study, this paper performs a strict and deep comparison of computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) HTS data and SC data across several dimensions: transit agency usage, departure time from home, number of trips per traveler, and activity durations. The analysis reveals that the HTS constitutes a simplified portrayal of transit usage patterns. Non-home-based trips and trips made for activities of short duration are underrepresented in the survey data, leading to an underestimation of off-peak travel by transit. In addition, the systematic overestimation of peak period transit use appears to be because of the corrective weighting of the 20–29 demographic which is notoriously difficult to reach in a telephone-based household survey.
Perceived Safety and Separated Bike Lanes in the Midwest: Results from a Roadway Design Survey in Michigan
Authors: Sanders Rebecca L. , Judelman Belinda
Published: April 2018

This article presents the results of an address-based sample survey ( n = 351) conducted in the fall of 2016 for the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) as part of an effort to provide guidance for building sidepaths. The survey investigated attitudes toward bicycling among drivers and bicyclists, bicycling habits, barriers to bicycling, and roadway design preferences regarding bicycle infrastructure in Michigan. In particular, this survey explored design preferences while bicycling with children, bicycling by oneself, and driving. Safety emerged as a key barrier to bicycling, as did distance, weather, and the difficulty of carrying things or traveling with others. Roadway design preferences were clearly weighted toward greater separation when sharing the roadway whether as a bicyclist or a driver, and this trend was most pronounced ( p < 0.001) when considering bicycling with children. In all cases, ratings for one-way separated bike lanes were similar to those for sidepaths, suggesting that separated bike lanes could be a key part of addressing the safety and comfort concerns of more cautious riders. Preferences for separation were strongly associated with perceived safety as a barrier. These results were even stronger for non-transport-cyclists, although all groups, regardless of frequency or type of bicycling, preferred more separation. These results corroborate past research and add compelling evidence for separated facilities as a key part of expanding the potential for bicycling trips in general, and particularly with children. The survey findings will inform guidance about sidepath design for MDOT.