bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TCIApathfinder: An R Client for the Cancer Imaging Archive REST API
Authors: Russell Pamela , Fountain Kelly , Wolverton Dulcy , Ghosh Debashis
Published: June 2018

The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) hosts publicly available deidentified medical images of cancer from over 25 body sites and over 30,000 patients. Over 400 published studies have utilized freely available TCIA images. Images and metadata are available for download through a web interface or a REST API. Here, we present TCIApathfinder, an R client for the TCIA REST API. TCIApathfinder wraps API access in user-friendly R functions that can be called interactively within an R session or easily incorporated into scripts. Functions are provided to explore the contents of the large database and to download image files. TCIApathfinder provides easy access to TCIA resources in the highly popular R programming environment. TCIApathfinder is freely available under the MIT license as a package on CRAN (https://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/TCIApathfinder/index.html) and from https://github.com/pamelarussell/TCIApathfinder.

Significance: These findings present a new tool, TCIApathfinder, the first client for The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) for use in the highly popular R computing environment, that will dramatically lower the barrier of access to the valuable tools in TCIA. Cancer Res; 78(15); 4424–6. ©2018 AACR.
Using a Culturally Tailored Intervention to Increase Colorectal Cancer Knowledge and Screening among Hispanics in a Rural Community
Authors: Briant Katherine J. , Sanchez Janeth I. , Ibarra Genoveva , Escareño Monica , Gonzalez Nora E. , Jimenez Gonzalez Virginia , Marchello Nathan , Louie Stephanie , Thompson Beti
Published: June 2018

Background: Disparities in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates exist among racial/ethnic minorities, especially those living in rural areas. There is an urgent need to implement interventions to improve colorectal cancer screening behaviors among such groups, particularly those living in rural areas in the United States.

Methods: From a rural community of Hispanics, we recruited participants to attend home-based promotor(a)-led “home health parties” in which participants were taught about colorectal cancer screening; participants ages 50 and older were given a free fecal occult blood test (FOBT) kit to complete on their own. A pre- and posttest design was used to assess changes in colorectal cancer awareness, knowledge, and screening at baseline and at 1-month follow-up after the intervention.

Results: We observed a statistically significant increase in colorectal cancer screening awareness and knowledge among participants. Colorectal cancer screening rates with FOBT increased from 51.0% to 80%. There was also a statistically significant increase in social engagement, that is, the intent to speak to friends and relatives about colorectal cancer screening.

Conclusions: Findings indicate that culturally tailored colorectal cancer education facilitated by promotores in a rural environment, coupled with free stool-based test for colorectal cancer screening, is an effective way to increase colorectal cancer screening awareness, knowledge, and screening among Hispanics living in a rural area in Washington State.

Impact: Culturally tailored home health interventions have the potential to achieve Healthy People 2020 colorectal cancer screening goals in Hispanic rural communities. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(11); 1283–8. ©2018 AACR.
Support for Pharmacist-Provided HPV Vaccination: National Surveys of U.S. Physicians and Parents
Authors: Shah Parth D. , Calo William A. , Marciniak Macary W. , Gilkey Melissa B. , Brewer Noel T.
Published: June 2018

Background: State laws about pharmacists providing human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines vary considerably, limiting many pharmacists' ability to provide this important cancer prevention service. We characterized physician and parent support for pharmacist-provided HPV vaccination for adolescents who are past due for vaccination.

Methods: In 2014 to 2015, we conducted two national U.S. surveys of 776 primary care physicians (PCPs) and 1,504 parents of adolescents. Respondents indicated the extent to which they supported pharmacist-provided HPV vaccination for 13- to 17-year-olds who are past due. Respondents could endorse the provision unconditionally, or only if certain conditions were met, such as pharmacists receiving proper vaccination training. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess correlates of support.

Results: Most physicians (79%) and parents (81%) endorsed pharmacist-provided HPV vaccination if pharmacists had received proper vaccination training, reported vaccine doses to adolescents' PCP, and referred adolescents to PCPs for other health services. Family medicine physicians were more likely than pediatricians to support trained pharmacists providing HPV vaccination [OR = 1.62; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17–2.22]. Support was also higher among physicians who practiced in Western states (OR = 2.11; 95% CI, 1.30–3.40). Parents' odds of endorsing trained pharmacists provision of HPV vaccine increased with higher overall satisfaction with their pharmacy's services (OR = 1.10; 95% CI, 1.02–1.19), belief in pharmacists' competence in vaccination practices (OR = 1.42; 95% CI, 1.18–1.70), and overall vaccine confidence (OR = 1.30; 95% CI, 1.15–1.48).

Conclusions: To increase support for HPV vaccination services, pharmacists should raise awareness about their immunization training and standardize vaccination protocols that ensure coordination with primary care.

Impact: Stakeholders' feedback and buy-in is important to help guide expansion of HPV vaccination in pharmacies. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(8); 970–8. ©2018 AACR.
Effects of Music Intervention on the Physical and Mental Status of Patients with Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Xia , Zhang Yin , Fan Yao , Tan Xiang-Sheng , Lei Xun
Published: June 2018

Background: The aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of music intervention on the physical and mental status of patients with breast cancer. Methods: 9 databases were searched; 30 randomized controlled trials that compared the effects of music plus standard care and standard care alone in patients with breast cancer were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Jadad scale. Results: The results of the meta-analysis suggested that music intervention was significantly effective in lowering systolic blood pressure (standardized mean difference (SMD) -0.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.85 to -0.42; p < 0.00001), diastolic blood pressure (SMD -0.64, 95% CI -1.06 to -0.22; p = 0.003), and heart rate (SMD -0.45, 95% CI -0.66 to -0.24; p < 0.0001), and in relieving anxiety (Hamilton Scale: mean difference (MD) -7.04, 95% CI -9.31 to -4.78; p < 0.00001; Self-Rating Anxiety Scale: MD -7.40, 95% CI -10.28 to -4.52; p < 0.00001; State Anxiety Inventory: MD -12.40, 95% CI -21.86 to -2.94; p = 0.01), and depression (MD -7.39, 95% CI -8.35 to -6.43; p < 0.00001). Conclusion: This review provides clues that music intervention might partially improve the physiological and psychological health of patients with breast cancer.
Advanced Mucinous Colorectal Cancer: Epidemiology, Prognosis and Efficacy of Chemotherapeutic Treatment
Authors: Ott Claudia , Gerken Michael , Hirsch Daniela , Fest Petra , Fichtner-Feigl Stefan , Munker Stefan , Schnoy Elisabeth , Stroszczynski Christian , Vogelhuber Martin , Herr Wolfgang , Evert Matthias , Reng Michael , Schlitt Hans Jürgen , Klinkhammer-Schalke Monika , Teufel Andreas
Published: June 2018

Background: The clinicopathological significance of the mucinous subtype of colorectal cancer (CRC) remains controversial. As of today, none of the current guidelines differentiate treatment with respect to mucinous or nonmucinous cancer. Due to the lack of substantiated data, best treatment remains unclear and the mucinous subtype of CRC is usually treated along the lines of recommendations for adenocarcinoma of the colon. Methods: We investigated an East-Bavarian cohort of 8,758 patients with CRC. These included 613 (7.0%) patients with a mucinous subtype, who were analyzed for assessing their characteristics in clinical course and for evaluating the efficacy of common chemotherapy protocols. Results and Conclusion: Mucinous CRC was predominantly located in the right hemicolon; it was diagnosed at more advanced stages and occurred with preponderance in women. A higher rate of G3/4 grading was observed at diagnosis (all p < 0.001). An association of mucinous CRC with younger age at initial diagnosis, previously reported by other groups, could not be confirmed. Patients with mucinous stage IV colon cancer demonstrated poorer survival (p = 0.006). In contrast, no differences in survival were observed for specific stages I–III colon cancer. Stage-dependent analysis of rectal cancer stages I–IV also showed no differences in survival. However, univariable overall analysis resulted in significant poorer survival of mucinous compared to nonmucinous rectal cancer (p = 0.029). Also, combined analysis of all patients with mucinous CRC revealed poorer overall survival (OS) of these patients compared to nonmucinous CRC patients (median 48.4 vs. 60.2 months, p = 0.049) but not in multivariable analysis (p = 0.089). Chemotherapeutic treatment showed comparable efficacy regarding OS for mucinous and nonmucinous cancers in both an adjuvant and palliative setting for colon cancer patients (p values comparing mucinous and nonmucinous cancers < 0.001–0.005).
Combinations of Multiple Neuroimaging Markers using Logistic Regression for Auxiliary Diagnosis of Alzheimer Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Mao Nini , Liu Yunting , Chen Kewei , Yao Li , Wu Xia
Published: June 2018

Background: Multiple neuroimaging modalities have been developed providing various aspects of information on the human brain. Objective: Used together and properly, these complementary multimodal neuroimaging data integrate multisource information which can facilitate a diagnosis and improve the diagnostic accuracy. Methods: In this study, 3 types of brain imaging data (sMRI, FDG-PET, and florbetapir-PET) were fused in the hope to improve diagnostic accuracy, and multivariate methods (logistic regression) were applied to these trimodal neuroimaging indices. Then, the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) method was used to analyze the outcomes of the logistic classifier, with either each index, multiples from each modality, or all indices from all 3 modalities, to investigate their differential abilities to identify the disease. Results: With increasing numbers of indices within each modality and across modalities, the accuracy of identifying Alzheimer disease (AD) increases to varying degrees. For example, the area under the ROC curve is above 0.98 when all the indices from the 3 imaging data types are combined. Conclusion: Using a combination of different indices, the results confirmed the initial hypothesis that different biomarkers were potentially complementary, and thus the conjoint analysis of multiple information from multiple sources would improve the capability to identify diseases such as AD and mild cognitive impairment.
Treatment Perspectives in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Vetter Marcel , Neurath Markus F.
Published: June 2018

Background: Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic immune-mediated disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. The pathophysiological understanding of this disease is limited and no curative therapy is available so far. Therefore, most patients require long-lasting or even life-long immunosuppressive therapies for the suppression of symptoms to improve quality of life and reduction of long-term risks. However, in a relevant subgroup of patients, these therapeutic goals cannot be sufficiently attained. Summary: Clinically established therapies in active CD comprise corticosteroids and immunosuppressants such as azathioprine. After the introduction of anti-TNFα (Tumor necrosis factor alpha) antibodies, other biologicals (e.g., vedolizumab and ustekinumab) have also been approved. New drugs in the pipeline like filgotinib, upadacitinib, risankizumab or rifaximin could improve the therapy of CD in the near future. Thus, an individualized therapy management, based on optimal selection of therapeutic agents will become more important. Additionally, the local application of mesenchymal stem cells might be helpful in the management of fistulas. Key Messages: The targeted biological therapeutic agents (anti-TNFα antibodies, vedolizumab, ustekinumab) are well established for therapy in CD. There are several new substances in the pipeline with promising results in phase II trials (filgotinib, rifaximin, risankizumab, upadacitinib). The upcoming extension of the therapeutic arsenal will require methods for an optimized selection of substances, thus enabling a more individualized therapy.
Pathogenesis of Potassium-Competitive Acid Blocker-Resistant Non-Erosive Reflux Disease
Authors: Kawami Noriyuki , Hoshino Shintaro , Hoshikawa Yoshimasa , Takenouchi Nana , Umezawa Mariko , Hanada Yuriko , Kaise Mitsuru , Iwakiri Katsuhiko
Published: June 2018

Background: The present study examined the pathogenesis of potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB)-resistant non-erosive reflux disease (NERD). Methods: Forty-three patients with NERD, who had persistent reflux symptoms despite the administration of P-CAB, were included in this study. After excluding eosinophilic esophagitis and primary esophageal motility disorders, esophageal impedance-pH monitoring was performed. In symptom index (SI)-positive patients, the mechanism of SI-positivity and percent time with intragastric pH > 4 and with esophageal pH < 4 were investigated according to the presence or absence of Helicobacter pylori infection. Results: One (2.3%) of 43 patients had a primary esophageal motility disorder (Jackhammer esophagus). Eighteen (41.9%) and 3 (7%) patients were SI-positive for liquid and gas-only reflux, respectively, and the remaining 21 patients who were SI-negative (48.8%) had functional heartburn. All patients SI-positive for liquid reflux were SI-positive for weakly acidic reflux. Gastric acid was sufficiently suppressed by P-CAB, regardless of the presence or absence of H. pylori infection. Conclusions: The pathogenesis of ­P-CAB-resistant NERD was elucidated in 51% of patients. Symptoms in all patients SI-positive for liquid reflux were related to weakly acidic reflux, and symptoms related to acid reflux may be ruled out by the administration of P-CAB.
Gradual Phenotype Development in Huntington Disease Transgenic Minipig Model at 24 Months of Age
Authors: Vidinská Daniela , Vochozková Petra , Šmatlíková Petra , Ardan Taras , Klíma Jiří , Juhás Štefan , Juhásová Jana , Bohuslavová Božena , Baxa Monika , Valeková Ivona , Motlík Jan , Ellederová Zdenka
Published: June 2018

Background: Huntington disease (HD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disease caused by the expansion of a polyglutamine sequence in a gene encoding the huntingtin (Htt) protein, which is expressed in almost all cells of the body. In addition to small animal models, new therapeutic approaches (including gene therapy) require large animal models as their large brains are a more realistic model for translational research. Objective: In this study, we describe phenotype development in transgenic minipigs (TgHD) expressing the N-terminal part of mutated human Htt at the age of 24 months. Methods: TgHD and wild-type littermates were compared. Western blot analysis and subcellular fractionation of different tissues was used to determine the fragmentation of Htt. Immunohistochemistry and optical analysis of coronal sections measuring aggregates, Htt expression, neuroinflammation, and myelination was applied. Furthermore, the expression of Golgi protein acyl-CoA binding domain containing 3 (ACBD3) was analyzed. Results: We found age-correlated Htt fragmentation in the brain. Among various tissues studied, the testes displayed the highest fragmentation, with Htt fragments detectable even in cell nuclei. Also, Golgi protein ACBD3 was upregulated in testes, which is in agreement with previously reported testicular degeneration in TgHD minipigs. Nevertheless, the TgHD-specific mutated Htt fragments were also present in the cytoplasm of striatum and cortex cells. Moreover, microglial cells were activated and myelination was slightly decreased, suggesting the development of a premanifest stage of neurodegeneration in TgHD minipigs. Conclusions: The gradual development of a neurodegenerative phenotype, ac­companied with testicular degeneration, is observed in 24- month-old TgHD minipigs.
Preoperative Visceral Adiposity and Muscularity Predict Poor Outcomes after Hepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hamaguchi Yuhei , Kaido Toshimi , Okumura Shinya , Kobayashi Atsushi , Shirai Hisaya , Yao Siyuan , Yagi Shintaro , Kamo Naoko , Seo Satoru , Taura Kojiro , Okajima Hideaki , Uemoto Shinji
Published: June 2018

Objective: Visceral adiposity, defined as a high visceral-to-subcutaneous adipose tissue area ratio (VSR), has been shown to be associated with poor outcomes in several cancers. However, in the surgical field, the significance of visceral adiposity remains controversial. The present study investigated the impact of visceral adiposity as well as sarcopenic factors (low muscularity) on outcomes in patients undergoing hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients and Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data from 606 patients undergoing hepatectomy for HCC at our institution between April 2005 and March 2016. Using preoperative plain computed tomography imaging at the level of the third lumbar vertebra, visceral adiposity, skeletal muscle mass, and muscle quality were evaluated by the VSR, skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), and intramuscular adipose tissue content (IMAC), respectively. The impact of these parameters on outcomes after hepatectomy for HCC was analyzed. Results: The overall survival rate was significantly lower among patients with a high VSR (p < 0.001) than among patients with a normal VSR. Similarly, the recurrence-free survival rate was significantly lower among patients with a high VSR (p = 0.016). A high VSR, low SMI, and high IMAC contributed to an increased risk of death (p < 0.001) and HCC recurrence (p < 0.001) in an additive manner. Multivariate analysis showed that not only preoperative low muscularity but also visceral adiposity was a significant risk factor for mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.566, p < 0.001) and HCC recurrence (HR = 1.329, p = 0.020) after hepatectomy for HCC. Conclusions: Preoperative visceral adiposity, as well as low muscularity, was closely related to poor outcomes after hepatectomy for HCC. It is crucial to establish a new strategy including perioperative nutritional interventions with rehabilitation for better outcomes after hepatectomy for HCC.
Education-Adjusted Normality Thresholds for FDG-PET in the Diagnosis of Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Mainta Ismini C. , Trombella Sara , Morbelli Silvia , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Garibotto Valentina ,   Alzheimer Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI)
Published: June 2018

Background: A corollary of the reserve hypothesis is that what is regarded as pathological cortical metabolism in patients might vary according to education. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the incremental diagnostic value of education-adjusted over unadjusted thresholds on the diagnostic accuracy of FDG-PET as a biomarker for Alzheimer disease (AD). Methods: We compared cortical metabolism in 90 healthy controls and 181 AD patients from the Alzheimer Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database. The AUC of the ROC curve did not differ significantly between the whole group and the higher-education patients or the lower-education subjects. Results: The threshold of wMetaROI values providing 80% sensitivity was lower in higher-education patients and higher in the lower-education patients, compared to the standard threshold derived over the whole AD collective, without, however, significant changes in sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion: These data show that education, as a proxy of reserve, is not a major confounder in the diagnostic accuracy of FDG-PET in AD and the adoption of education-adjusted thresholds is not required in daily practice.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Clinical Symptoms, Location, Metastasis Formation, and Associated Malignancies in a Single Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Aghdassi Ali , Christoph Agnes , Dombrowski Frank , Döring Paula , Barth Christoph , Christoph Jan , Lerch Markus M. , Simon Peter
Published: June 2018

Background and Aims: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare malignancies but the most common mesenchymal tumors of the digestive tract. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging and an increasing incidence will confront us more frequently with stromal tumors. This single center study aimed to characterize GIST patients in terms of tumor location, clinical presentation, metastasis formation, as well as associated secondary malignancies. Methods: In a retrospective study, 104 patients with a histologically confirmed diagnosis of GIST, collected between 1993 and 2011, were characterized for several clinical features. Results: The most common GIST location was the stomach (67.6%) followed by the small intestine (16.2%). Gastrointestinal bleeding (55.8%) and abdominal pain (38.5%) were the most frequently reported symptoms whereas about one-third of patients remained clinically asymptomatic (31.6%); 14.4% of patients had either synchronous or metachronous metastases and there was a significant prevalence also in the low risk group. The proportion of secondary malignant associated neoplasms was 31% in our GIST cohort, among which gastrointestinal, genitourinary tumors, and breast cancer were the most prevalent. Conclusion: There was a considerable risk for metastasis formation and the development of secondary neoplasias that should encourage discussion about the appropriate surveillance strategy after surgery for GIST.
A Prospective Observational Study on the Predictive Value of Serum Cystatin C for Successful Weaning from Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Kim Chang Seong , Bae Eun Hui , Ma Seong Kwon , Kim Soo Wan
Published: June 2018

Background/Aims: There is a paucity of literature that investigates a biomarker associated with successful renal recovery following continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Our study aimed to identify potential renal biomarkers or clinical indicators that could predict the successful weaning from CRRT. Methods: We conducted a prospective, observational study of 110 patients who had received CRRT and were weaned after renal recovery. Patients were considered to have successfully weaned from CRRT once there was no need for renal replacement therapy (RRT) for at least 14 days. For patients who had to restart dialysis within 14 days were considered unsuccessful. Results: Of the 110 patients evaluated, 89 (80.9%) were successfully weaned from CRRT. These patients had lower serum cystatin C (CysC) levels and higher urine output than the group that restarted RRT at the time of CRRT cessation. However, the levels of serum creatinine and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin were not significantly lower in the successful group compared to the restart-RRT group. A multivariable logistic regression showed that serum CysC was an independent predictor for the successful weaning from CRRT. Furthermore, in a multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis, the group that was successfully weaned from CRRT had a lower in-hospital mortality compared to the restarted RRT group. Conclusion: Serum CysC, at the time of CRRT cessation, is an independent predictor of the successful weaning from CRRT in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury.
Successful Feasibility Human Trial of a New Self-Expandable Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve (Pulsta Valve) Implantation Using Knitted Nitinol Wire Backbone and Trileaflet α-Gal–Free Porcine Pericardial Valve in the Native Right Ventricular Outflow Tract
Authors: Kim Gi Beom , Song Mi Kyoung , Bae Eun Jung , Park Eun-Ah , Lee Whal , Lim Hong-Gook , Kim Yong Jin
Published: June 2018

Background—

Self-expandable percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) for native right ventricular outflow tract lesions is still in the clinical trial phase. The aim of this study is to present the result of feasibility study of a novel self-expandable knitted nitinol wire stent mounted with a treated trileaflet α-Gal–free porcine pericardial valve for PPVI.

Methods and Results—

A feasibility study using Pulsta valve (TaeWoong Medical Co, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea) was designed for patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation in the native right ventricular outflow tract, and 6-month follow-up outcomes were reviewed. Ten tetralogy of Fallot patients were enrolled. Before PPVI, severe pulmonary regurgitation (mean pulmonary regurgitation fraction, 45.5%±7.2%; range, 34.9%–56%) and enlarged right ventricular volume (mean indexed right ventricular end-diastolic volume, 176.7±14.3 mL/m
2
; range, 158.9–205.9 mL/m
2
) were present. The median age at PPVI was 21.7±6.5 years (range, 13–36 years). Five patients were successfully implanted with 28 mm and the other 5 with 26 mm valves loaded on the 18F delivery cable. No significant periprocedural complications were noted in any patient. At the 6-month follow-up, indexed right ventricular end-diastolic volume was dramatically decreased to 126.3±20.3 mL/m
2
(range, 99–164.2 mL/m
2
), and the mean value of peak instantaneous pressure gradient between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery decreased from 6.8±3.5 mm Hg (range, 2–12 mm Hg) before PPVI to 5.7±6.7 mm Hg (range, 2–12 mm Hg) without significant pulmonary regurgitation. There was no adverse event associated with the valve.

Conclusions—

A feasibility study of the Pulsta valve for native right ventricular outflow tract lesions was completed successfully with planned Pulsta valve implantation and demonstrated good short-term effectiveness without serious adverse events.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02555319.
Histone Variant H2A.Z Is Required for the Maintenance of Smooth Muscle Cell Identity as Revealed by Single-Cell Transcriptomics
Authors: Yao Fang , Yu Peng , Li Yue , Yuan Xinli , Li Zheng , Zhang Tao , Liu Fei , Wang Yingbao , Wang Yin , Li Dandan , Ma Baihui , Shu Chang , Kong Wei , Zhou Bingying , Wang Li
Published: June 2018

Background:

Histone variants endow chromatin with specific structures, and play essential roles in development and diseases. However, little is known about their roles in controlling cell identity in vascular diseases.

Methods:

Given the cell heterogeneity in atherosclerotic lesions, we applied single-cell RNA-Sequencing to analyze diseased human arteries, and identified histone variant H2A.Z as a key histone signature to maintain vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) identity.

Results:

We show that H2A.Z occupies genomic regions near VSMC marker genes, and its occupancy is decreased in VSMCs undergoing dedifferentiation. Mechanistically, H2A.Z occupancy preferentially promotes nucleosome turnover, and facilitates the recruitment of SMAD3 and MED1, thereby activating VSMC marker gene expression. In addition, H2A.Z expression is dramatically reduced at both mRNA and protein levels in diseased human vascular tissues compared to those in normal arteries. Notably, in vivo overexpression of H2A.Z rescues injury-induced loss of VSMC identity and neointima formation.

Conclusions:

Together, our data introduce dynamic occupancy of a histone variant as a novel regulatory basis contributing to cell fate decisions, and imply H2A.Z as a potential intervention node for vascular diseases.
Use of Biomarkers to Predict Specific Causes of Death in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Sharma Abhinav , Hijazi Ziad , Andersson Ulrika , Al-Khatib Sana M. , Lopes Renato D. , Alexander John H. , Held Claes , Hylek Elaine M. , Leonardi Sergio , Hanna Michael , Ezekowitz Justin A. , Siegbahn Agneta , Granger Christopher B. , Wallentin Lars
Published: June 2018

Background:

Atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of death. High-sensitivity troponin T, growth differentiation factor-15, NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide), and interleukin-6 levels are predictive of cardiovascular events and total cardiovascular death in anticoagulated patients with atrial fibrillation. The prognostic utility of these biomarkers for cause-specific death is unknown.

Methods:

The ARISTOTLE trial (Apixaban for the Prevention of Stroke in Subjects With Atrial Fibrillation) randomized 18 201 patients with atrial fibrillation to apixaban or warfarin. Biomarkers were measured at randomization in 14 798 patients (1.9 years median follow-up). Cox models were used to identify clinical variables and biomarkers independently associated with each specific cause of death.

Results:

In total, 1272 patients died: 652 (51%) cardiovascular, 32 (3%) bleeding, and 588 (46%) noncardiovascular/nonbleeding deaths. Among cardiovascular deaths, 255 (39%) were sudden cardiac deaths, 168 (26%) heart failure deaths, and 106 (16%) stroke/systemic embolism deaths. Biomarkers were the strongest predictors of cause-specific death: a doubling of troponin T was most strongly associated with sudden death (hazard ratio [HR], 1.48;
P
<0.001), NT-proBNP with heart failure death (HR, 1.62;
P
<0.001), and growth differentiation factor-15 with bleeding death (HR, 1.72;
P
=0.028). Prior stroke/systemic embolism (HR, 2.58;
P
>0.001) followed by troponin T (HR, 1.45;
P
<0.0029) were the most predictive for stroke/ systemic embolism death. Adding all biomarkers to clinical variables improved discrimination for each cause-specific death.

Conclusions:

Biomarkers were some of the strongest predictors of cause-specific death and may improve the ability to discriminate among patients’ risks for different causes of death. These data suggest a potential role of biomarkers for the identification of patients at risk for different causes of death in patients anticoagulated for atrial fibrillation.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00412984.
Spatial ecology of a small arboreal ambush predator, Trimeresurus macrops Kramer, 1977, in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Strine Colin , Silva Inês , Barnes Curt H. , Marshall Benjamin M. , Artchawakom Taksin , Hill Jacques , Suwanwaree Pongthep
Published: June 2018

The Big-Eyed Green Pit Viper (Trimeresurus macrops; Kramer, 1977) is a venomous snake species endemic to Southeast Asia. Although we have some knowledge of the systematics and toxicology of T. macrops, little is known about the spatial ecology of this species. From May 2013 to February 2014, we used radio-telemetry to determine home-range sizes of 13 adult female T. macrops inhabiting the Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve in Northeast Thailand. We found that individual home ranges for T. macrops averaged 0.175 ha, with activity areas ranging from 0.112-0.303 ha and core areas ranging from 0.023-0.052 ha. There was little overlap between conspecific tracked females, especially for the most used areas of their home ranges. We find that T. macrops ambushes more in higher humidity and expresses very little diurnal activity. They use the groundstory for ambushing, then retreat over small distances to higher refuge during the day. Future studies should focus on prey abundance, habitat selection, and survival rates.
Use of pitfall traps for sampling marine benthic arthropods on soft substrate
Authors: Dadaliaris M. , Grantounis P. , Evagelopoulos A. , Katsanevakis S.
Published: June 2018

Ecological monitoring is a prerequisite for ecosystem-based management and conservation. There is a need for developing an efficient and non-destructive method for monitoring marine benthic arthropods on soft substrate, as the currently applied methods are often inadequate. Pitfall trapping has been used extensively to sample terrestrial arthropods, but has not been seriously considered yet in the marine environment. In this study, the effectiveness of pitfall traps for monitoring marine benthic arthropods was assessed through a case study in the shallow sublittoral zone of Kalloni Gulf, Lesvos Island, Greece. Two different trap types were installed in August 2016 at five depths, during two 12 h periods (day and night). Pitfall traps performed well, collecting a large number of individuals. The hermit crabDiogenes pugilatordominated the catches. The catch of this species significantly differed by trap type, while the interaction between depth and period was also found significant. Further research is needed to evaluate the efficiency of different types of pitfall traps and field protocols in the marine environment.
Redescription of a Philippine endemic freshwater calanoid copepod, Pseudodiaptomus brehmi Kiefer, 1938 (Copepoda, Calanoida, Pseudodiaptomidae)
Authors: Guinto S. K. P. , Walter T. C. , Papa R. D. S.
Published: June 2018

The genus Pseudodiaptomus is represented by 19 species in Philippine coastal waters. Of all these species found in the Philippines, P. brehmi Kiefer, 1938 is the only known truly freshwater pseudodiaptomid endemic to this country, which was originally described from Lake Naujan, Mindoro Island. After numerous attempts to find it in its type locality, we concluded that the former is no longer extant in this lake and has now been displaced by the invasive Neotropical calanoid Arctodiaptomus dorsalis (Marsh, 1907). Sampling in Lake Taal, on the nearby island of Luzon, resulted in the surprise discovery of P. brehmi populations coexisting with A. dorsalis. This rediscovery of P. brehmi in Lake Taal and its absence from its type locality, necessitate this report as well as the species’ morphological redescription.
The presence of Macromedaeus distinguendus (De Haan, 1835) (Brachyura, Xanthidae) in the shallow hydrothermal vent system off northeastern Taiwan
Authors: Tseng Li-Chun , Limviriyakul Parinya , Ho Ping-Ho , Hwang Jiang-Shiou
Published: June 2018

The present study investigated the population of the xanthid brachyuran crab, Macromedaeus distinguendus (De Haan, 1835), at a toxic hydrogen sulfide, shallow hydrothermal vent area at Turtle Island, off northeastern Taiwan. This is the first record of this species from this extreme environment, and M. distinguendus is only the second brachyuran discovered in this area. The wet weight of male and female M. distinguendus varied from 0.11 to 1.22 g (mean ± standard deviation: 0.56 ± 0.39 g) and 0.06 to 0.62 g (0.37 ± 0.15 g), respectively. The wet weight: carapace width ratio was significantly correlated in both sexes. The local distribution patterns of M. distinguendus were different from those of the obligate hydrothermal crab Xenograpsus testudinatus N. K. Ng, J.-F. Huang & Ho, 2000 (Xenograpsidae) in this area. An analysis of resource use and habitat partitioning revealed that the two crab species were able to co-exist within the study area.
Ghost crab burrows simulation shows differential across-shore persistence
Authors: Campagnoli Mariana L. , Pombo Maíra , Turra Alexander
Published: June 2018

Ghost-crab abundance is often used as an indicator of sandy beach environmental quality. Most studies use an indirect approach, assuming a direct relationship between the number of burrows and individuals. We here hypothesized that burrows could remain open for different periods of time according to the beach strata. We performed a field manipulation to simulate burrows, with persistence of each one individually assessed over a month. Results succeeded in demonstrating a significant differential persistence of burrows among beach compartments (backshore, frontal dune, and coastal vegetation, i.e., in a landward oriented sequence), which can affect abundance estimates and are thus prone to overestimating larger size classes, which inhabit the landward limit of the species’ range of occurrence. We recommend that this information is taken into consideration in population studies, and encourage the development of similar studies over broader spatial and temporal scales.
Does colour matter? Genetic differentiation of colour morphs of the Asian golden web spider Nephila antipodiana (Araneae: Nephilidae)
Authors: Low Van Lun , Norma-Rashid Yusoff , Ubaidillah Rosichon , Yusoff Amri , Prakash Batah Kunalan , Tan Tiong Kai , Chen Chee Dhang , Sofian-Azirun Mohd
Published: June 2018

Here we present the first attempt to test for genetic differentiation among four distinct colour morphs of the Asian golden web spider Nephila antipodiana Walckenaer. Fragments of the 18S rRNA (18S) and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) genes were sequenced in eight populations of N. antipodiana belonging to four distinct colour morphs: yellow, yellowish green, and two newly discovered morphs, reddish yellow and white-spotted. The nuclear sequences amplified from females of the four colour morphs were identical. The mitochondrial COI sequences, on the other hand, revealed slightly higher variation by recovering three haplotypes belonging to two different clades. Clade I comprises yellow, yellowish green and reddish yellow morphs from the mainland of Southeast Asia and Java, whereas clade II is restricted to white-spotted morph originating from Borneo. The low genetic divergence between both clades, despite being distinctive, undoubtedly provides new insight into the genetic diversity of this polymorphic species.
“Richard Rorty on the American Left in the Era of Trump”
Authors: Rondel David
Published: June 2018

This paper revisits some of the arguments in Richard Rorty’s Achieving Our Country, twenty years after the book first appeared. Not only are many of Rorty’s diagnoses and predictions eerily prescient in the wake of the rise of Donald Trump to the US presidency, but there is also perceptive political advice in Rorty’s book that I argue the contemporary American Left would do well to heed. While many post-election commentators have tended to read Achieving Our Country as an admonishment of so-called “identity politics” in favor of an “old Left” politics of redistribution and economic justice, I argue that the main distinction on which the analysis in Achieving Our Country hangs is between what Rorty calls “real politics” and “cultural politics”, a conclusion that is confirmed, I argue, by examining the three concrete suggestions for the American Left that together form the core positive argument in Rorty’s book.
Democracy and Democratic Hope: Rortian Meditations for the 21st Century
Authors: Škof Lenart
Published: June 2018

In the first part of this paper we introduce some of the main ideas of two great philosophers of democracy – Richard Rorty and Luce Irigaray. We show that in a similar manner both deal with an ethical ideal of community to be imagined, and achieved in the future. In the second part of this paper we present two ideas about democracy as an ethical and spiritual community – i.e., democracy as it relates to the idea of the »child« and democracy as shared atmosphere of »breath«. Finally, in the third part of this paper, we elaborate on the future of democracy in an eschatological sense, and argue, as Roberto Mangabeira Unger and Luce Irigaray would claim, that if democracy is related to the process of our own divinization, then it is precisely within this process that with our creativity, imagination, and love we indeed can become unlimited and infinite.
Discovery of two new Andean species of Scolomus (Townes & Townes), with a key to all known species (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Metopiinae)
Authors: ARAUJO RODRIGO O. , VIVALLO FELIPE , SANTOS BERNARDO F.
Published: June 2018

Scolomus Townes & Townes is a widely distributed genus of the family Ichneumonidae, with most species occurring in the New World. Herein two new species from Chile are described and illustrated. Scolomus maculatus sp. nov., which is characterized by a large rhomboid areolet and very wide RS vein in the fore wing, resembling a petiole; head and pronotum green, mesoscutum yellow with dark brown spots on its lateral lobes and around the scutellum. Scolomus clypeatus sp. nov., which is characterized by its wide clypeus, 3.00× as wide as long, with a rectangular aspect; head, mesoscutum, postscutellum and pronotum entirely yellow. The first key to all known species of the genus is also presented.
Twenty new species of Agrilus (Coleoptera: Buprestidae: Agrilinae) from the Oriental Region
Authors: JENDEK EDUARD , GREBENNIKOV VASILY V.
Published: June 2018

Twenty new Agrilus species from the Oriental Region are described and illustrated: A. aramis sp. nov. (Laos), A. aries sp. nov. (Laos), A. armipes sp. nov. (Laos, India), A. athos sp. nov. (Laos, Thailand), A. bacan sp. nov. (Indonesia), A. bicolorifrons sp. nov. (Laos), A. cuprocunctus sp. nov. (Laos), A. ebenus sp. nov. (Laos, Thailand, Vietnam), A. frontis sp. nov. (Laos), A. gemellus sp. nov. (Nepal), A. khunborom sp. nov. (Laos), A. kyklos sp. nov. (Laos), A. loongfahi sp. nov. (Malaysia), A. metallinus sp. nov. (Laos), A. nemoralis sp. nov. (Laos), A. porthos sp. nov. (Laos), A. princeps sp. nov. (Laos), A. rex sp. nov. (Malaysia), A. sikhiav sp. nov. (Laos) and A. sinuosus sp. nov (Laos, Vietnam).
Redescription of Cis renominatus and Paratrichapus javanus (Coleoptera: Ciidae)
Authors: SOUZA-GONÇALVES IGOR , LOPES-ANDRADE CRISTIANO , SANDOVAL-GÓMEZ VIVIAN E.
Published: June 2018

Cis renominatus Sandoval-Gómez, Lopes-Andrade & Lawrence, 2014, and Paratrichapus javanus (Pic, 1937) were originally described in the genus Xylographus Mellié, 1847. Their original descriptions are anecdotal and do not provide information on the morphology of male abdominal terminalia, which is essential for accurate identification of ciid beetles. Our aim is to redescribe C. renominatus and P. javanus based on careful examination of lectotypes and paralectotypes, and also on additional specimens of C. renominatus identified by us. The most remarkable feature of C. renominatus is the morphology of male genitalia, with penis about twice as long as tegmen, very slender, subparallel-sided, with apex hook-shaped and base spatula-shaped. Paratrichapus javanus is the largest species of the genus (length at least 3.50 mm) and is characterized by its very expanded and rounded metatibiae that bear about 25 spines, and by the anterocephalic edge of males bearing two tubercles with two tufts of bristles between them.
100 Years of Research on Mesoscale Convective Systems
Authors: Houze Robert A.
Published: June 2018

When cumulonimbus clouds aggregate, developing into a single entity with precipitation covering a horizontal scale of hundreds of kilometers, they are called mesoscale convective systems (MCSs). They account for much of Earth’s precipitation, generate severe weather events and flooding, produce prodigious cirriform anvil clouds, and affect the evolution of the larger-scale circulation. Understanding the inner workings of MCSs has resulted from developments in observational technology and modeling. Time–space conversion of ordinary surface and upper-air observations provided early insight into MCSs, but deeper understanding has followed field campaigns using increasingly sophisticated radars, better aircraft instrumentation, and an ever-widening range of satellite instruments, especially satellite-borne radars. High-resolution modeling and theoretical insights have shown that aggregated cumulonimbus clouds induce a mesoscale circulation consisting of air overturning on a scale larger than the scale of individual convective up- and downdrafts. These layers can be kilometers deep and decoupled from the boundary layer in elevated MCSs. Cooling in the lower troposphere and heating aloft characterize the stratiform regions of MCSs. As a result, long-lived MCSs with large stratiform regions have a top-heavy heating profile that generates potential vorticity in midlevels, thus influencing the larger-scale circulation within which the MCSs occur. Global satellite data show MCSs varying in structure, depending on the prevailing large-scale circulation and topography. These patterns are likely to change with global warming. In addition, environmental pollution affects MCS structure and dynamics subtly. Feedbacks of MCSs therefore need to be included or parameterized in climate models.
Impact of Langmuir Turbulence on the Thermal Response of the Ocean Surface Mixed Layer to Supertyphoon Haitang (2005)
Authors: Zhang Xuefeng , Chu Peter C. , Li Wei , Liu Chang , Zhang Lianxin , Shao Caixia , Zhang Xiaoshuang , Chao Guofang , Zhao Yuxin
Published: June 2018

Langmuir turbulence (LT) due to the Craik–Leibovich vortex force had a clear impact on the thermal response of the ocean mixed layer to Supertyphoon Haitang (2005) east of the Luzon Strait. This impact is investigated using a 3D wave–current coupled framework consisting of the Princeton Ocean Model with the generalized coordinate system (POMgcs) and the Simulating Waves Nearshore (SWAN) wave model. The Coriolis–Stokes forcing (CSF), the Craik–Leibovich vortex forcing (CLVF), and the second-moment closure model of LT developed by Harcourt are introduced into the circulation model. The coupled system is able to reproduce the upper-ocean temperature and surface mixed layer depth reasonably well during the forced stage of the supertyphoon. The typhoon-induced “cold suction” and “heat pump” processes are significantly affected by LT. Local LT mixing strengthened the sea surface cooling by more than 0.5°C in most typhoon-affected regions. Besides LT, Lagrangian advection of temperature also modulates the SST cooling, inducing a negative (positive) SST difference in the vicinity of the typhoon center (outside of the cooling region). In addition, CLVF has the same order of magnitude as the horizontal advection in the typhoon-induced strong-vorticity region. While the geostrophy is broken down during the forced stage of Haitang, CLVF can help establish and maintain typhoon-induced quasigeostrophy during and after the typhoon. Finally, the effect of LT on the countergradient turbulent flux under the supertyphoon is discussed.
Implementation of Text-Messaging and Social Media Strategies in a Multilevel Childhood Obesity Prevention Intervention: Process Evaluation Results
Authors: Loh Ivory H. , Schwendler Teresa , Trude Angela C.B. , Anderson Steeves Elizabeth T. , Cheskin Lawrence J. , Lange Sarah , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: June 2018

Social media and text messaging show promise as public health interventions, but little evaluation of implementation exists. The B’more Healthy Communities for Kids (BHCK) was a multilevel, multicomponent (wholesalers, food stores, recreation centers) childhood obesity prevention trial that included social media and text-messaging components. The BHCK was implemented in 28 low-income areas of Baltimore City, Maryland, in 2 waves. The texting intervention targeted 241 low-income African American caregivers (of 283), who received 3 texts/week reinforcing key messages, providing nutrition information, and weekly goals. Regular posting on social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) targeted community members and local stakeholders. High implementation standards were set a priori (57 for social media, 11 for texting), with low implementation defined as <50%, medium as 50% to 99%, high as ≥100% of the high standard for each measure. Reach, dose delivered, and fidelity were assessed via web-based analytic tools. Between waves, social media implementation improved from low-moderate to high reach, dose delivered, and fidelity. Text messaging increased from moderate to high in reach and dose delivered, fidelity decreased from high to moderate. Data were used to monitor and revise the BHCK intervention throughout implementation. Our model for evaluating text messaging–based and social media–based interventions may be applicable to other settings.