bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Phase II Trial of Abiraterone Combined with Dutasteride for Men with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: McKay Rana R. , Werner Lillian , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Lis Rosina , Voznesensky Olga , Zhang Zhenwei , Marck Brett T. , Matsumoto Alvin M. , Domachevsky Liran , Zukotynski Katherine A. , Bhasin Manoj , Bubley Glenn J. , Montgomery Bruce , Kantoff Philip W. , Balk Steven P. , Taplin Mary-Ellen
Published: September 2016

Purpose: Despite the efficacy of abiraterone, a CYP17A1 inhibitor, in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), nearly all patients develop resistance. The purpose of this phase II study was to evaluate mechanisms of resistance to more complete androgen synthesis inhibition with abiraterone and dutasteride.

Experimental Design: Eligible patients with metastatic CRPC underwent a baseline metastasis biopsy. Patients received abiraterone and prednisone for two 4-week cycles. After this time, high-dose dutasteride (3.5 mg daily) was added. Patients continued therapy until study withdrawal or radiographic progression. Repeat metastasis biopsy was obtained at progression. The primary endpoint was to assess mechanisms of resistance. Serum hormone and abiraterone levels were assessed. Tissue was assessed for androgen receptor (AR) and AR splice variant-7 (ARV7) expression.

Results: Forty patients were enrolled. Sixty percent (n = 24) achieved a ≥50% reduction in prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The median time to radiographic progression was 11 months. Nearly all baseline (n = 29 of 31) and posttreatment (n = 16 of 16) tumors tested for AR nuclear expression were positive. Of those tested, ARV7 expression was present in 48% (n = 10 of 21) of baseline and 42% (n = 5 of 12) of treatment discontinuation specimens. Compared with patients with higher serum abiraterone levels at treatment discontinuation, patients with lower levels had higher circulating androgens.

Conclusions: Despite increased androgen synthesis inhibition, we demonstrate that tumor AR axis remains important in disease progression. We highlight that abiraterone metabolism and pharmacokinetics may play a role in resistance. The noncomparative design limits conclusions on the efficacy of dual therapy with abiraterone and dutasteride, but the results support development of further multifaceted approaches toward AR inhibition. Clin Cancer Res; 23(4); 935–45. ©2016 AACR.
Anti-PD1–Induced Pneumonitis: Capturing the Hidden Enemy
Authors: Castanon Eduardo
Published: September 2016

Anti-PD1 antibodies have led to a therapeutic shift in cancer treatment. Although classically described as "well tolerated," these drugs can lead to severe immune-related adverse events. Using CT scan imaging, Nishino and colleagues describe different radiologic patterns and their possible relation to severity of several cases of anti-PD1–induced pneumonitis. Clin Cancer Res; 22(24); 5956–8. ©2016 AACR.

See related article by Nishino et al., p. 6051
Immunogenomics of Hypermutated Glioblastoma: A Patient with Germline POLE Deficiency Treated with Checkpoint Blockade Immunotherapy
Authors: Johanns Tanner M. , Miller Christopher A. , Dorward Ian G. , Tsien Christina , Chang Edward , Perry Arie , Uppaluri Ravindra , Ferguson Cole , Schmidt Robert E. , Dahiya Sonika , Ansstas George , Mardis Elaine R. , Dunn Gavin P.
Published: September 2016

We present the case of a patient with a left frontal glioblastoma with primitive neuroectodermal tumor features and hypermutated genotype in the setting of a POLE germline alteration. During standard-of-care chemoradiation, the patient developed a cervical spine metastasis and was subsequently treated with pembrolizumab. Shortly thereafter, the patient developed an additional metastatic spinal lesion. Using whole-exome DNA sequencing and clonal analysis, we report changes in the subclonal architecture throughout treatment. Furthermore, a persistently high neoantigen load was observed within all tumors. Interestingly, following initiation of pembrolizumab, brisk lymphocyte infiltration was observed in the subsequently resected metastatic spinal lesion and an objective radiographic response was noted in a progressive intracranial lesion, suggestive of active central nervous system (CNS) immunosurveillance following checkpoint blockade therapy.

Significance: It is unclear whether hypermutated glioblastomas are susceptible to checkpoint blockade in adults. Herein, we provide proof of principle that glioblastomas with DNA-repair defects treated with checkpoint blockade may result in CNS immune activation, leading to clinically and immunologically significant responses. These patients may represent a genomically stratified group for whom immunotherapy could be considered. Cancer Discov; 6(11); 1230–6. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Snyder and Wolchok, p. 1210.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1197
Follow-Up of Venom Immunotherapy on Flow Cytometry and Definition of a Protective Index
Authors: Sainte-Laudy Jean , Touraine François , Cluzan Delphine , Belle Moudourou François
Published: September 2016

Background: A major problem of venom-specific immunotherapy (VIT) is the absence of reliable parameters for deciding treatment discontinuation. Aim of the Study: Intracutaneous tests (ICTs), the basophil activation test (BAT), specific IgEs (sIgEs) and blocking factor (BF) activity were measured during VIT. We made an evaluation by means of a protective index (PI) including ICT, BAT and BF values. Material and Methods: A population of 45 patients who had experienced a systemic reaction after an insect sting were tested before VIT (T0), at 1 week (T1w), at 10 weeks (T10w) and at 21 weeks (T21w), and, for a subgroup of 17 patients, at 3-5 years (T3-5y). Basophil activation (expressed in % CD63 and in the area under the curve) and BF activity were measured by flow cytometry using the CCR3/CD63 protocol. Results: The first 21 weeks of follow-up showed no significant variation in the ICT, sIgE and BAT measurements, except for BAT, by eliminating weak negative anti-IgE responses. In these conditions, the decrease in basophil activation was significant at T10w (p = 0.009) and T21w (p = 0.009). Increased BF activity was also significant at T10w (p = 0.008) and T21w (p = 0.002). The PI threshold calculated from the mean ± 3 standard errors (SE) was 64.8 (14.7 ± 16.7, n = 25) at T0. PI increase was significant at T3-5y (3,430 ± 6,282; p < 0.001). Conclusion: VIT induced a significant decrease in ICT values and basophil activation, along with an increase in serum BF activity, significant after 10 weeks of VIT. Evaluated in a larger population, the PI could represent a new tool for the clinico-biological follow-up of VIT efficacy.
Isolated Extranodal Natural Killer T-Cell Lymphoma of the Orbit in a Young Patient: Complete Regression with the SMILE Regimen
Authors: Meel Rachna , Dhiman Rebika , Wadhwani Meenakshi , Kashyap Seema , Sharma Sanjay , Gogia Ajay
Published: September 2016

Purpose: Natural killer T-cell lymphoma (NKTL) is a highly malignant tumor that typically arises in the nose and/or paranasal sinuses. Isolated orbital involvement by NKTL is extremely rare, and only few case reports exist in the literature. Herein, we report a case of primary orbital NKTL in a young patient who showed very good response to chemotherapy with the SMILE regimen. Methods: A 28-year-old healthy female presented to us with epiphora and fullness of the lower eyelid. She had previously been diagnosed as orbital pseudotumor and was prescribed oral steroids. However, there was no response to the treatment. She also had a history of recurrent sinusitis. An incision biopsy revealed NKTL. A systemic workup did not reveal any other site of involvement. The patient received 6 cycles of chemotherapy (SMILE) and external beam radiotherapy. Results: The tumor showed complete regression after 2 cycles of chemotherapy. The patient is disease free at 24 months of follow-up. Conclusion: Reported median survival for primary orbital NKTL is extremely poor. This is perhaps the first report of a primary orbital NKTL demonstrating a remarkable treatment response to a newer chemotherapy regimen (SMILE) in combination with radiotherapy.
Enhanced platelet MRP4 expression and correlation with platelet function in patients under chronic aspirin treatment
Authors: Massimi Isabella , Lotti Lavinia , Temperilli Flavia , Mancone Massimo , Sardella Gennaro , Calcagno Simone , Turriziani Ombretta , Frati Luigi , Pulcinelli Fabio M.
Published: September 2016

Platelet multidrug resistance protein4 (MRP4)-overexpression has a role in reducing aspirin action. Aspirin in vivo treatment enhances platelet MRP4 expression and MRP4 mediated transport inhibition reduces platelet function and delays thrombus formation. The aim of our work was to verify whether MRP4 expression is enhanced in platelets obtained from patients under chronic aspirin treatment and whether it correlates with residual platelet reactivity. We evaluated changes on mRNA and protein-MRP4 expression and platelet aggregation in four populations: healthy volunteers (HV), aspirin-free control population (CTR), patients who started the treatment less than one month ago (ASA<1 month patients) and aspirinated patients who started the treatment more than two months ago (ASA>2 months patients). In platelets obtained from ASA>2 months patients, it was found a statistically significant MRP4 enhancement of both mRNA and protein expression compared to HV, CTR and ASA<1 month patients. Platelets obtained from ASA>2 months patients that present high levels of platelet MRP4, have higher serum TxB2 levels and collagen-induced platelet aggregation compared to patient with low levels of MRP4 in platelets. In addition collagen induced platelet aggregation is higher in in vitro aspirinated platelets obtained from patients with high levels of MRP4 patients compared to those obtained from patients with low MRP4 levels. We can assert that, in patients under chronic aspirin treatment, platelets that present high MRP4 levels have an increase of residual platelet reactivity, which is due in part to incomplete COX-1 inhibition, and in part to COX-1–independent mechanism.
Combination therapy for inhibitor reversal in haemophilia A using monoclonal anti-CD20 and rapamycin
Authors: Sherman Alexandra , Byrne Barry J. , Markusic David M. , Jiang Haiyan , Biswas Moanaro , Rogers Geoffrey L. , Herzog Roland W.
Published: September 2016

Development of antibodies (inhibitors) against coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) is a major complication of intravenous replacement therapy in haemophilia A (HA). Current immune tolerance induction (ITI) regimens are not universally effective. Rituximab, a B cell-depleting antibody against CD20, has shown mixed results for inhibitor reversal in patients. This study aims to develop a combinatorial therapy for inhibitor reversal in HA, using anti-murine CD20 (anti-mCD20) antibody and rapamycin, which targets both B and T cell responses. Additionally, it extensively characterises the role of the IgG backbone in B cell depletion by anti-CD20 antibodies. For this, inhibitors were generated in BALB/c-HA mice by weekly IV injection of FVIII. Subsequently, anti-mCD20 (18B12) with IgG2a or IgG1 backbone was injected IV in two doses three weeks apart and B cell depletion and recovery was characterised. Rapamycin was administered orally 3x/week (for 1 month) while continuing FVIII injections. Altering the IgG backbone of anti-mCD20 from IgG2a to IgG1 reduced overall depletion of B cells (including memory B cells), and marginal zone, B-10, and B-1b cells were specifically unaffected. While neither antibody was effective alone, in combination with rapamycin, anti-mCD20 IgG2a but not IgG1 was able to reverse inhibitors in HA mice. This regimen was particularly effective for starting titres of ∼10 BU. Although IgG1 anti-mCD20 spared potentially tolerogenic B cell subsets, IgG2a directed sustained hyporesponsiveness when administered in conjunction with rapamycin. This regimen represents a promising treatment for inhibitor reversal in HA, as both of these compounds have been extensively used in human patients.

Supplementary Material to this article is available at www.thrombosis-online.com.
A novel platelet-type von Willebrand disease mutation (GP1BA p.Met255Ile) associated with type 2B “Malmö/New York” von Willebrand disease
Authors: Lavenu-Bombled Cécile , Guitton Corinne , Dupuis Arnaud , Baas Marie-Jeanne , Desconclois Céline , Dreyfus Marie , Li Renhao , Caron Claudine , Gachet Christian , Fressinaud Edith , Lanza François
Published: September 2016

Interaction between von Willebrand factor (VWF) and platelet GPIbα is required for primary haemostasis. Lack or loss-of-function in the ligand-receptor pair results in bleeding complications. Paradoxically, gain-of-function mutations in VWF or GPIbα also result in bleeding complications as observed in type 2B von Willebrand disease (VWD) and platelet-type- (PT-) VWD, respectively. A similar phenotype is observed with increased ristocetin-induced platelet agglutination and disappearance of the highest molecular weight multimers of VWF. We evaluated a patient with a bleeding disorder and a biological presentation compatible with type 2B VWD. VWF and platelet functional assays, sequencing of the VWF and GP1BA genes, and expression studies in HEK cells were performed. Sequencing of the VWF gene in the propositus revealed a heterozygous p.Pro1266Leu mutation previously found in type 2B VWD Malmö/New York. These variants are characterised by a mild phenotype and a normal VWF multimer composition suggesting the presence of a second mutation in our propositus. Sequencing of the GP1BA gene revealed a heterozygous c.765G>A substitution changing Met at position 255 of GPIbα to Ile. This new mutation is located in the β-switch domain where five other gain-of-function mutations have been reported in PT-VWD. Expression of GPIbα Ile255 in HEK GPIb-IX cells resulted in enhanced VWF binding compared to wild-type, similar to known PT-VWD mutations (p.Val249, p.Ser249 and p.Val255) indicating that it contributes to the propositus defects. This first report associating PT-with type 2B VWD illustrates the importance of combining biological assays with genetic testing to better understand the clinical phenotype.
Admission Control Methods in IMS Networks
Authors: Chromy Erik , Kavacky Matej , Dresto Lubomir
Published: September 2016

In this paper we present admission control methods for IMS network. The task of RACS block is to accept or reject new connection into the network. The main goal of the admission control method is to ensure the Quality of Service not only for new connection but also for already accepted connections. We discuss and compare three admission control algorithms in the paper from the qualitative parameters point of view.
Risk Factors for Incident Hospitalized Heart Failure With Preserved Versus Reduced Ejection Fraction in a Multiracial Cohort of Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Eaton Charles B. , Pettinger Mary , Rossouw Jacques , Martin Lisa Warsinger , Foraker Randi , Quddus Abdullah , Liu Simin , Wampler Nina S. , Hank Wu Wen-Chih , Manson JoAnn E. , Margolis Karen , Johnson Karen C. , Allison Matthew , Corbie-Smith Giselle , Rosamond Wayne , Breathett Khadijah , Klein Liviu
Published: September 2016

Background—

Heart failure is an important and growing public health problem in women. Risk factors for incident hospitalized heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) compared with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in women and differences by race/ethnicity are not well characterized.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively evaluated the risk factors for incident hospitalized HFpEF and HFrEF in a multiracial cohort of 42 170 postmenopausal women followed up for a mean of 13.2 years. Cox regression models with time-dependent covariate adjustment were used to define risk factors for HFpEF and HFrEF. Differences by race/ethnicity about incidence rates, baseline risk factors, and their population-attributable risk percentage were analyzed. Risk factors for both HFpEF and HFrEF were as follows: older age, white race, diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking, and hypertension. Obesity, history of coronary heart disease (other than myocardial infarction), anemia, atrial fibrillation, and more than one comorbidity were associated with HFpEF but not with HFrEF. History of myocardial infarction was associated with HFrEF but not with HFpEF. Obesity was found to be a more potent risk factor for African American women compared with white women for HFpEF (
P
for interaction=0.007). For HFpEF, the population-attributable risk percentage was greatest for hypertension (40.9%) followed by obesity (25.8%), with the highest population-attributable risk percentage found in African Americans for these risk factors.

Conclusions—

In this multiracial cohort of postmenopausal women, obesity stands out as a significant risk factor for HFpEF, with the strongest association in African American women.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00000611.
Predicting the 10-Year Risks of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Chinese Population
Authors: Yang Xueli , Li Jianxin , Hu Dongsheng , Chen Jichun , Li Ying , Huang Jianfeng , Liu Xiaoqing , Liu Fangchao , Cao Jie , Shen Chong , Yu Ling , Lu Fanghong , Wu Xianping , Zhao Liancheng , Wu Xigui , Gu Dongfeng
Published: September 2016

Background:

The accurate assessment of individual risk can be of great value to guiding and facilitating the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, prediction models in common use were formulated primarily in white populations. The China-PAR project (Prediction for ASCVD Risk in China) is aimed at developing and validating 10-year risk prediction equations for ASCVD from 4 contemporary Chinese cohorts.

Methods:

Two prospective studies followed up together with a unified protocol were used as the derivation cohort to develop 10-year ASCVD risk equations in 21 320 Chinese participants. The external validation was evaluated in 2 independent Chinese cohorts with 14 123 and 70 838 participants. Furthermore, model performance was compared with the Pooled Cohort Equations reported in the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guideline.

Results:

Over 12 years of follow-up in the derivation cohort with 21 320 Chinese participants, 1048 subjects developed a first ASCVD event. Sex-specific equations had C statistics of 0.794 (95% confidence interval, 0.775–0.814) for men and 0.811 (95% confidence interval, 0.787–0.835) for women. The predicted rates were similar to the observed rates, as indicated by a calibration χ
2
of 13.1 for men (
P
=0.16) and 12.8 for women (
P
=0.17). Good internal and external validations of our equations were achieved in subsequent analyses. Compared with the Chinese equations, the Pooled Cohort Equations had lower C statistics and much higher calibration χ
2
values in men.

Conclusions:

Our project developed effective tools with good performance for 10-year ASCVD risk prediction among a Chinese population that will help to improve the primary prevention and management of cardiovascular disease.
The Guarani Aquifer Accord
Authors: Tinker Catherine
Published: September 2016

The Guarani Aquifer Accord of 2010 represents a plan for the multiple, sustainable, equitable and reasonable use of the water of the Guarani Aquifer System and a pledge to prevent significant harm to this vast natural resource in South America. Based on good science and good international law, this regional agreement was reached by Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, acknowledging the environmental, economic and geopolitical importance of the underground water linking the four states known as the “Guarani Aquifer System.” The Guarani Aquifer Accord (“Acordo sobre o Aquífero Guarani” or “Acuerdo Aquífero Guarani”) is the first regional treaty to be modeled after the International Law Commission Draft Articles on Transboundary Aquifers of 2008, which address “confined” aquifers that are outside the scope of the United Nations Watercourses Convention of 1997. This article explores the Guarani Aquifer Accord’s provisions for exchanges of scientific and technical information, notification and consultation, direct negotiations, referral to a joint commission to be created once the Accord enters into force for evaluation and recommendations in case of a dispute, and the option of a subsequent arbitration protocol to be negotiated in future. Taken together, procedural requirements and the provisions in the Accord in favor of diplomatic and political resolution of future disputes over the use and protection of the water may forestall the need to resort to litigation in international courts or tribunals. This article concludes that, even absent an additional protocol for arbitration of disputes and absent the establishment of a joint commission to facilitate information exchange, convene regular meetings and build trust as contained in the agreement, the Guarani Aquifer Accord provides a framework for regional cooperation designed to avoid or resolve conflicts.
Benevolence and Justice in Extraction Economies
Authors: Adams Samuel L.
Published: September 2016

Roland Boer’s work on the sacred economy of ancient Israel will become a standard reference volume for years to come. Boer reframes our understanding of Israel’s economy around Marx’s notion of régulation, the distinction between allocative and extractive economies, and patterns of subsistence survival at the village level. While this response celebrates Boer’s work, it suggests that more attention be given to the negative aspects of extraction economies, in particular to subsistence survival, and to the role of women and children in this economy. It also notes that Boer’s description of wisdom literature as reflecting the voices of the ruling elite in their attempt to control the servant class might be balanced by more attention to the wisdom literature where God becomes an advocate for the poor.
Holy Mutability: Religionsgeschichte and Theological Ontology
Authors: Cornell Collin
Published: September 2016

The Christian community characteristically confesses the constancy of God. But historians of religion know by contrast that the deity Yhwh evolved over time. How might scholars who belong to both these camps negotiate the disconnect? This essay seeks an answer by staging a moment of complementarity between Religionsgeschichte and ot theology. First it considers two cases in which the discourses of each discipline mirror one another by narrating the same event of deity change: Ps 82 and Yhwh’s greater mercy through exile. Second, it provides a sampler of two theological ontologies that countenance “holy mutability”: the open theism of Terence Fretheim and the evangelical historicism of Eberhard Jüngel.
L’ épreuve du vieillir
Authors: Stitou Rajaa
Published: September 2016

The experience of exile and of learning a foreign language has been central to Beckett. Starting from the strangeness of language (which makes words become unfamiliar), Beckett has come to consider the strangeness of being, which is reflected in the characters faced with aging in his plays. What insights into clinical practice can Beckett’s aesthetics provide in a period when the tyranny of performance makes old age unbearable ? – Maybe a new emphasis on how to listen to old age, as a way of rehabilitating desiring and speaking human beings, even when they are suffering from what psychiatrists called “senile dementia.”
Failing Better
Authors: Lange Bernd-Peter
Published: September 2016

The publication of Beckett’s letters and the availability of the manuscript of Murphy have thrown new light on the curious chess game at the novel’s dénouement. In tracing the revisions from manuscript through publication and subsequent translations, I compare Beckett’s play with the conventions of the game and reconstruct the largely parodic hidden agenda of chess references in Beckett’s early work, their roots and ambivalences, as well as their place in the larger context of Beckett’s writing.
“Forgetting to Be”
Authors: Trammell Matthew
Published: September 2016

This essay reads Molloy (1951) alongside theories of defamiliarization and aesthetic receptiveness to that which is outside the self developed by Kant, Edmund Burke, Schopenhauer, Viktor Shklovsky, and Heidegger, and comments on contemporary post-human scholarship’s orientation to objects and the natural world. Molloy, a subject constantly aware of his pained, decaying body, is able to escape the bounds of his self during intensely powerful, aesthetic experiences of the natural world. These instances destroy habit, allowing the subject to experience the vivid “presencing” of the outside world and to gain a temporary reprieve from existence via a state of non-being.
Illustrated and online catalog of type specimens of freshwater fishes in the Colección de Peces Dulceacuícolas of Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt (IAvH-P), Colombia
Authors: DONASCIMIENTO CARLOS , CÁRDENAS-BAUTISTA JOHANN-STEPHENS , ACOSTA KEVIN GIANCARLO BORJA , GONZÁLEZ-ALVARADO ARTURO , MEDINA CLAUDIA A.
Published: September 2016

The catalog of type specimens of freshwater fishes deposited in the Colección de Peces Dulceacuícolas del Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt (IAvH-P) is presented. This list includes 483 specimens in 65 lots representing 11 holotypes and 472 paratypes of 48 nominal species. Corrections, additions, and updating of information in the original descriptions are included in individual remarks for each catalog number entry and a gallery of pictures of holotypes or paratypes of each nominal species is also presented, which supplements some original descriptions lacking figures of their respective types. An online version of the catalog is available at http://humboldt.org.co/en/servicios/colecciones-biologicas/catalogo-de-tipos.
New species and records of Microveliinae and Veliinae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Veliidae) from Colombia
Authors: MOLANO FREDY , MOREIRA FELIPE FERRAZ FIGUEIREDO , MORALES IRINA
Published: September 2016

Euvelia orinoquia sp. nov. and E. meta sp. nov. from eastern Colombia are described, illustrated, and included in an updated identification key to the species of the genus. The former can be diagnosed by body length 2.30–2.50 mm, male fore femur without tufts of setae, longitudinal black stripe of female pronotum almost twice as wide as length of antennomere I, and female connexiva grayish black with silvery pruinosity on mesal portion, reddish on lateral portion. Euvelia meta sp. nov. can be diagnosed by female body length about 1.50 mm and maximum body width 0.90 mm, patches of silvery setae on female abdominal terga II–III and V–VII, and connexival segments I and IV–VI. Additionally, new records from the country are presented for species of Euvelia Drake, Husseyella Herring, Microvelia Westwood (Microveliinae), Oiovelia Drake & Maldonado-Capriles, Platyvelia Polhemus & Polhemus, Stridulivelia Hungerford, and Veloidea Gould (Veliinae).
Two new species of Pasipha Ogren & Kawakatsu (Platyhelminthes: Continenticola) from areas of deciduous forest in southern Brazil
Authors: AMARAL SILVANA VARGAS DO , LEAL-ZANCHET ANA MARIA
Published: September 2016

Two new species of Geoplaninae from southern Brazil are described herein. The new species, belonging to the genus Pasipha Ogren & Kawakatsu, 1990, can be distinguished from each other and from their congeners by colour pattern and characteristics of the copulatory apparatus, especially regarding the female organs and prostatic vesicle. Both new species seem to be endemic to areas covered by deciduous forest.
Use of Gradient Dilution to Detect and Correct Matrix Interferences in Inductively Coupled Plasma–Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (ICP-TOFMS)
Authors: Cheung Yan , Ray Steven J. , Schwartz Andrew J. , Hieftje Gary M.
Published: September 2016

Our research group earlier used dispersion that occurs during flow injection to detect and reduce matrix interference in inductively coupled plasma–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ICP-TOFMS). In the absence of a matrix interference, the ratio of signals from any two sample constituents should remain constant, independent of the dilution, over the course of a flow-injection transient. However, when an interferent is present, the signal ratio from different analytes will change with dilution, owing to the difference in severity of the interference on specific analytes. As a result, matrix interference can be recognized (flagged) by monitoring the signal ratios of two analytes over the course of a flow-injection transient; a ratio that changes over time indicates the presence of an interferent. The drawback of this earlier method was that dispersion, and therefore dilution, was somewhat element-specific, causing the ratios to wander even when no interference existed. Here, a gradient HPLC pump is used to overcome this drawback by creating a longer, better-controlled dilution. Under these conditions, variation in dispersion between elements is negligible and difficulties associated with it are reduced or eliminated. Further, when an interference exists, the optimal dilution factor to reduce the interference to an acceptable level can be found from the gradient-dilution curve as the point where the signal ratio between two elements becomes constant.
Study of the AlS4Pc–Polylysine Ion Pair, a Red-Fluorescent Probe: Its High Specificity, Large Concentration Range Response to Bismuth Ion, and Application
Authors: Guo Menglin , Huang Ping , Yu Fei , Yang Huiqing , Deng Yabin , Du Guangxin , Li Donghui
Published: September 2016

Tetrasulfonated aluminum phthalocyanine (AlS4Pc), a strongly red-emitting compound, shows high detection sensitivity, little effect of photobleaching, and photochemical stability, making it an excellent red-fluorescent probe. We have observed that in acid media, a low concentration of poly-L-lysine (PLL) has a strong fluorescence-quenching effect on AlS4Pc, forming the ion-pair complex as AlS4Pc-PLL with almost no fluorescence. However, in the presence of Bi3+, the fluorescence of AlS4Pc-PLL dramatically recovers and the emission is visual because of the remarkable recovery. Screening experiments with other metal ions reveal that only Bi3+ can restore the fluorescence of the AlS4Pc-PLL complex. The presence of other metal ions does not result in the recovery of fluorescence, indicating the high specificity of the response to Bi3+ of AlS4Pc-PLL. This is the key finding of the present study. It was also observed that the response to Bi3+ of AlS4Pc-PLL exhibits a linear relationship over a large concentration range (three orders of magnitude). Based on these findings, we have established a new quantitative analysis method for Bi3+ with high specificity and high sensitivity, using the ion-pair AlS4Pc-PLL complex as a red-fluorescent probe, and we discuss the reaction mechanism. The detection limit of this method is 0.0021 mg L−1. The linear relationship applies to the range of 0.007–34.9 mg L−1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.9993. The method established addresses the complex operation and time-consuming problems in traditional methods and is thus suitable for real applications. Satisfactory results have been obtained when the method was applied to the measurement of real samples. This study further expands the scope of new applications of phthalocyanine-based red-fluorescent probes in analytical sciences.
Eternal potential? Temporality, complexity and the incoherent power of the European Union
Authors: Holden Patrick
Published: September 2016

Temporality is a relatively under-explored factor in international relations. The concept of timescape refers to the temporal timeframe of institutional processes and/or the timeframes of causation at different levels. Said concept has powerful explanatory potential in the case of complex, fragmented entities such as the European Union (EU). Critical realism offers a historicist meta-theoretical framework for delineating and analysing timescapes of different forms. Theories of critical political economy and historical sociology can be used to critique the EU’s own liberal teleological timescapes. The Union’s leadership postulates a central future role for it, based on its long-term structural relationships, and its Mediterranean policy is a prime example of this structural foreign policy. However, its component structures are profoundly dissonant and unlikely to coalesce into a meaningful role. The EU’s engagement in the Mediterranean illustrates how its long-term approach is over-ridden by the ‘real-time’ agency of other actors, and by deeper socio-economic cycles which it cannot control. A focus on temporality thus helps to interpret and explain the fragmented power of the EU; as well as our complex international system more generally.
Modeling the Time-Varying Nature of Student Exceptionality Classification on Achievement Growth
Authors: Nese Joseph F. T. , Stevens Joseph J. , Schulte Ann C. , Tindal Gerald , Elliott Stephen N.
Published: September 2016

Our purpose was to examine different approaches to modeling the time-varying nature of exceptionality classification. Using longitudinal data from one state’s mathematics achievement test for 28,829 students in Grades 3 to 8, we describe the reclassification rate within special education and between general and special education, and compare four alternative growth models for students with and without disabilities with different specifications of disability classification as time-variant (TVC) or time-invariant (TIC) covariates. Although model fit statistics were inconsistent in endorsing a single model, we found that the TIC results were generally preferable to the TVC; however, the choice of model specification may rest on the purpose of the researcher and goals of representing the influence of covariates on growth.
Global Budget Payment
Authors: Chen Bradley , Fan Victoria Y.
Published: September 2016

To control ever-increasing costs, global budget payment has gained attention but has unclear impacts on health care systems. We propose the CAP framework that helps navigate 3 domains of difficult design choices in global budget payment: Constraints in resources (capitation vs facility-based budgeting; hard vs soft budget constraints), Agent-principal in resource allocation (individual vs group providers in resource allocation; single vs multiple pipes), and Price adjustment. We illustrate the framework with empirical examples and draw implications for policy makers.
Perceptions of parental secure base support in African American adolescents and young adults
Authors: Jones Jason D. , Ehrlich Katherine B. , Brett Bonnie E. , Gross Jacquelyn T. , Mohr Jonathan J. , Hopper Elizabeth A. , Dinh Julie V. , Malanchuk Oksana , Peck Stephen C. , Brodish Amanda B. , Adam Emma K. , Eccles Jacquelynne S. , Kemeny Margaret E. , Cassidy Jude
Published: September 2016

Within the field of relationship science there is increasing interest in the connections between close relationships and physical health. In the present study, we examined whether adolescents’ (∼12 years old) and young adults’ (∼20 years old) perceptions of their parents as a secure base prospectively predict C-reactive protein (CRP), a commonly used marker of inflammatory activity, at age 32 in a well-characterized sample of African Americans. We utilized existing data collected as part of the Maryland Adolescent Development in Context Study (MADICS) to construct measures of perceptions of parental secure base support (SBS), general parental support, and peer support in early adolescence and early adulthood. In the present study, SBS was operationalized as the perceived ability to depend on parents in times of need. Fifty-nine African American MADICS participants who reported on perceived support in early adolescence and early adulthood participated in a follow-up home visit at age 32 during which serum CRP was measured via a blood draw. After controlling for inflammation-related confounds (e.g., tobacco use, body mass index), adolescents’ perceptions of parental SBS, but not peer support or general parental support, predicted lower CRP values at age 32 ( b = −.92, SE = .34, p < .05). None of the support variables in early adulthood predicted CRP at 32 years. This study adds to a growing literature on relationships and health-related outcomes and provides the first evidence for a link between parental SBS in adolescence and a marker of inflammatory activity in adulthood.
Using Discrete Choice Experiments with Duration to Model EQ-5D-5L Health State Preferences
Authors: Mulhern Brendan , Bansback Nick , Hole Arne Risa , Tsuchiya Aki
Published: September 2016

Background: Discrete choice experiments incorporating duration can be used to derive health state values for EQ-5D-5L. Yet, methodological issues relating to the duration attribute and the optimal way to select health states remain. The aims of this study were to: test increasing the number of duration levels and choice sets where duration varies (aim 1); compare designs with zero and non-zero prior values (aim 2); and investigate a novel, two-stage design to incorporate prior values (aim 3). Methods: Informed by zero and non-zero prior values, two efficient designs were developed, each consisting of 120 EQ-5D-5L health profile pairs with one of six duration levels (aims 1 and 2). Another 120 health state pairs were selected, with one of six duration levels allocated in a second stage based on existing estimated utility of the states (aim 3). An online sample of 2,002 members of the UK general population completed 10 choice sets each. Differences across the regression coefficients from the three designs were assessed. Results: The zero prior value design produced a model with coefficients that were generally logically ordered, but the non-zero prior value design resulted in a set of less ordered coefficients where some differed significantly. The two-stage design resulted in ordered and significant coefficients. The non-zero prior value design may include more “difficult” choice sets, based on the proportions choosing each profile. Conclusions: There is some indication of compromised “respondent efficiency”, suggesting that the use of non-zero prior values will not necessarily result in better overall precision. It is feasible to design discrete choice experiments in two stages by allocating duration values to EQ-5D-5L health state pairs based on estimates from prior studies.
Disclosing the Uncertainty Associated with Prognostic Estimates in Breast Cancer
Authors: Engelhardt Ellen G. , Pieterse Arwen H. , Han Paul K. J. , van Duijn-Bakker Nanny , Cluitmans Frans , Maartense Ed , Bos Monique M. E. M. , Weijl Nir I. , Punt Cornelis J. A. , Quarles van Ufford-Mannesse Patricia , Sleeboom Harm , Portielje Johanneke E. A. , van der Hoeven Koos J. M. , Woei-A-Jin F. J. Sherida , Kroep Judith R. , de Haes Hanneke C. J. M. , Smets Ellen M. A. , Stiggelbout Anne M.
Published: September 2016

Background. Treatment decision making is often guided by evidence-based probabilities, which may be presented to patients during consultations. These probabilities are intrinsically imperfect and embody 2 types of uncertainties: aleatory uncertainty arising from the unpredictability of future events and epistemic uncertainty arising from limitations in the reliability and accuracy of probability estimates. Risk communication experts have recommended disclosing uncertainty. We examined whether uncertainty was discussed during cancer consultations and whether and how patients perceived uncertainty. Methods. Consecutive patient consultations with medical oncologists discussing adjuvant treatment in early-stage breast cancer were audiotaped, transcribed, and coded. Patients were interviewed after the consultation to gain insight into their perceptions of uncertainty. Results. In total, 198 patients were included by 27 oncologists. Uncertainty was disclosed in 49% (97/197) of consultations. In those 97 consultations, 23 allusions to epistemic uncertainty were made and 84 allusions to aleatory uncertainty. Overall, the allusions to the precision of the probabilities were somewhat ambiguous. Interviewed patients mainly referred to aleatory uncertainty if not prompted about epistemic uncertainty. Even when specifically asked about epistemic uncertainty, 1 in 4 utterances referred to aleatory uncertainty. When talking about epistemic uncertainty, many patients contradicted themselves. In addition, 1 in 10 patients seemed not to realize that the probabilities communicated during the consultation are imperfect. Conclusions. Uncertainty is conveyed in only half of patient consultations. When uncertainty is communicated, oncologists mainly refer to aleatory uncertainty. This is also the type of uncertainty that most patients perceive and seem comfortable discussing. Given that it is increasingly common for clinicians to discuss outcome probabilities with their patients, guidance on whether and how to best communicate uncertainty is urgently needed.
A sense of the cycling environment: Felt experiences of infrastructure and atmospheres
Authors: Simpson Paul
Published: September 2016

This paper explores how cyclists gain a sense of the environments they move through by considering their felt experiences of the affective atmospheres that emerge in and through their movements. More specifically, the focus falls upon how various forms of transport infrastructure choreograph bodies in their movements through the city and so contributes towards the co-production of various affective atmospheres between differently mobile bodies. Drawing on video interviews with 24 commuter cyclists in Plymouth, UK, the roles that such infrastructures and atmospheres play in shaping the experience of cycling through shared forms of transport space are considered. Based on this, the paper argues that such felt experiences of affective atmospheres should be considered further in planning for cycling and when evaluating future developments.
The early/late fire dichotomy
Authors: Laris Paul , Koné Moussa , Dadashi Sepideh , Dembele Fadiala
Published: September 2016

A fundamental principal of savanna fire ecology is that the fire regime determines vegetation cover, especially as it pertains to trees. A corollary is that late fires are more damaging to trees than early fires. Much evidence in support of this principle has been derived from a series of long-term burning experiments based on the pioneering work of André Aubréville. Eighty years ago, Aubréville devised an experiment to study the impacts of fire on savanna trees in Africa. The design conventions of this study remain highly influential. It is now clear, however, that the dates chosen by Aubréville and his followers do not reflect the burning practices of West African people. Dates that were chosen for “early” and “late” are not representative of actual fire timing; they represent extremes. This study has four goals: (i) to critically review the results of the burning experiments; (ii) to examine them in the context of results from recent savanna fire studies; (iii) to evaluate their limitations based on data for actual burning practices and fires from West Africa; and (iv) to critically evaluate the use of the early/late terminology in contemporary fire research. We find the majority of West African fires occur during the “middle” of the fire season. Our field studies find that fire temperature and burn completeness are highest in the middle-season. We conclude that the early/late fire dichotomy is not sufficient for understanding the impacts of anthropogenic fires in the region and we make suggestions for rethinking its use more broadly.
Combien de manifestants ? Les cafés de la statistique – Soirée du 10 novembre 2015*
Authors:   Groupe « Statistique et enjeux publics »
Published: September 2016

How Many Demonstrators? The Cafés of Statistics - Evening of 10 November 2015. Counting demonstrators is a subject of debate in France, among the organizers of demonstrations, primarily trade unions, and the services of the Interior Ministry. Estimates regularly vary widely from multiples of one to four. The Prefect of Police of Paris in 2014 brought together a committee of three persons to evaluate official counting methods. These methods, which are traditional – counting “on sight” by police officers – were deemed reliable by the commission. Resolving differences would imply being able to establish a sharing of information between stakeholders and the establishment of trust that seems to have been compromised in the past.
Social Desirability Bias and Mode Effects in the Case of Voting Behavior
Authors: Liao Pei-shan
Published: September 2016

This study compares face-to-face interviews (PAPI) and computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI) on voter turnout of the 2004 presidential election in Taiwan. Results of voting behavior from both surveys are not consistent with actual voter turnout. Results from the PAPI sample are consistent with previous findings that respondents are partial toward the elected officials, but the CATI results are not. The latter results may be attributed to the disproportional distribution of parents’ ethnicity in the sample, although it is also possible that CATI respondents are simply telling the truth.
Clinical Characterization, Genetics, and Long-Term Follow-up of a Large Cohort of Patients With Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum
Authors: Romaniello Romina , Marelli Susan , Giorda Roberto , Bedeschi Maria F. , Bonaglia Maria C. , Arrigoni Filippo , Triulzi Fabio , Bassi Maria T. , Borgatti Renato
Published: September 2016

To gain a better understanding of the clinical and genetic features associated with agenesis of corpus callosum, we enrolled and characterized 162 patients with complete or partial agenesis of corpus callosum. Clinical and genetic protocols allowed us to categorize patients as syndromic subjects, affected by complex extra-brain malformations, and nonsyndromic subjects without any additional anomalies. We observed slight differences in sex ratio (56% males) and agenesis type (52% complete). Syndromic agenesis of corpus callosum subjects were prevalent (69%). We detected associated cerebral malformations in 48% of patients. Neuromotor impairment, cognitive and language disorders, and epilepsy were frequently present, regardless of the agenesis of corpus callosum subtype. Long-term follow-up allowed us to define additional indicators: syndromic agenesis of corpus callosum plus patients showed the most severe clinical features while isolated complete agenesis of corpus callosum patients had the mildest symptoms, although we observed intellectual disability (64%) and epilepsy (15%) in both categories. We achieved a definitive (clinical and/or genetic) diagnosis in 42% of subjects.
Design of the wind tunnel based virtual flight testing evaluation method for flight control systems
Authors: Huang Min , Wang Zhong-wei , Guo Zhen-yun , Niu Yao-bin
Published: September 2016

In order to provide a method for evaluating flight control systems with the wind tunnel based virtual flight testing and provide a guide for building virtual flight testing systems, the virtual flight testing evaluation method was researched. The virtual flight testing evaluation method consisted of three parts: virtual flight testing method, virtual flight testing data processing method, and flight control system performance determination method, which were respectively designed for a pitching control system. Then, the hardware-in-the-loop simulation evaluation method was presented, and comparisons between the virtual flight testing and hardware-in-the-loop simulation evaluation method were conducted to highlight the characteristics of virtual flight testing evaluation method. Finally, virtual flight testing simulation models of a sample air vehicle were built and virtual flight testing were simulated to demonstrate the virtual flight testing evaluation method, which is helpful for the understanding of the virtual flight testing evaluation method with more sensibility. The evaluation results show that the virtual flight testing evaluation method designed can be used for flight control system evaluation.