bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does tonsillectomy reduce medical care visits for pharyngitis/tonsillitis in children and adults? Retrospective cohort study from Sweden
Authors: Østvoll Eirik , Sunnergren Ola , Stalfors Joacim
Published: November 2019

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of tonsillectomy/adenotonsillectomy in reducing medical care visits for pharyngitis or tonsillitis in children and adults with chronic/recurrent tonsillitis.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Data were retrieved from the VEGA register, a comprehensive regional cohort in Sweden.

Participants

1044 children (<15 years) and 2244 adults.

Intervention

Tonsillectomy/adenotonsillectomy compared with no surgical treatment.

Main outcome measures

Changes in yearly mean rates of medical care visits due to pharyngitis/tonsillitis.

Results

In children, there was a significant decrease in the yearly mean medical care visits rate from 1.93 (1.82 to 2.04) before surgery to 0.129 (0.099 to 0.165) after surgery, with a mean change of −1.80 (−1.90 to −1.69), p<0.0001. In patients who did not undergo surgery, the corresponding mean change was −1.51 (−1.61 to −1.41), resulting in a mean difference in the change in visit rates between the intervention and control groups of −0.283 (−0.436 to −0.135), p=0.0002. In adults, a significant decrease in the yearly mean medical care visit rate was observed from 1.45 (1.39 to 1.51) before surgery to 0.152 (0.132 to 0.173) after surgery, with a mean change of −1.30 (−1.36 to −1.24), p<0.0001, compared with −1.18 (−1.24 to −1.13) in the control group. The difference in the change in yearly mean visit rate between the surgical and non-surgical groups was −0.111 (−0.195 to −0.028), p=0.0097. The subgroup analysis showed a greater effect of surgery in children, in patients with a higher number of medical care visits before surgery and in the first year of follow-up.

Conclusion

In this cohort of patients moderately or less affected with chronic/recurrent tonsillitis, the effectiveness of tonsillectomy/adenotonsillectomy in reducing medical care visits for pharyngitis and tonsillitis compared with no surgical treatment was low and of questionable clinical value.
Social media for the regional anesthesiologist: can we use it in place of medical journals?
Authors: Tran Bryant Winston , Dhillon Sabrina Kaur , Overholt Astrid Regina , Huntoon Marc
Published: November 2019

The regional anesthesia community regularly uses social media for advocacy and education. Well-known leaders in the field are willing to share their opinions with colleagues in a public forum. Some visionaries predict that the influence of social media will soon transcend that of the traditional academic journal. While physicians support the use of social media, an trend may exist toward anecdotal information. Does a lack of online regulation along with a bias towards self-promotion cloud meaningful discussion? In order to avoid the pitfalls of social media, thoughtful communication will help regional anesthesiologists promote their subspecialty. Mindful dialog, promotion of academic journals, and professional etiquette will help maintain a collegial environment.
The ecological and behavioral significance of short-term food caching in polar bears (Ursus maritimus)
Authors: Stirling Ian , Laidre Kristin L. , Derocher Andrew E. , Van Meurs Rinie
Published: November 2019

The paucity of observations of wild polar bears (Ursus maritimus) caching of food (including hoarding, i.e., burying and remaining with a kill for up to a few days) has led to the conclusion that such behavior does not occur or is negligible in this species. We document 19 observations of short-term hoarding by polar bears between 1973 and 2018 in Svalbard, Greenland, and Canada. Short-term hoarding appears to be influenced by size of the kill and its remaining energetic value after the first meal has been consumed. Fat and meat from smaller seals, such as pup or yearling ringed seals (Pusa hispida), are largely devoured immediately, leaving little to hoard. Carcasses of adult ringed seals, harp seals (Pagophilus groenlandicus), and bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus) may be covered with snow to reduce the chance of kleptoparasitism by another bear or other scavengers visually detecting a dark spot on the ice, while the hoarding bear lies nearby. Hoarding of other species, such as beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) (calves or parts) or other polar bears, appears opportunistic. We review differences in caching, including short-term hoarding behavior between polar bears and brown bears (U. arctos), and hypothesize about factors that may have influenced their evolution.
Synthesis of a polyacrylamide hydrogel using CO2 at room temperature
Authors: Ferrag Celia , Abdinejad Maryam , Kerman Kagan
Published: November 2019

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an environmentally harmful “greenhouse gas” that is present in abundant quantities in the earth’s atmosphere. Thus, the sequestration and conversion of CO2 to value-added organic chemicals is of environmental and economical importance. In this proof-of-concept study, amine groups of acrylamide compounds were found to react with CO2 under ambient conditions to form a polyacrylamide hydrogel. This composite was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI–MS), which confirmed successful synthesis and demonstrated all characteristics representative of a typical hydrogel material. Rheology analyses further proved the formation of the hydrogel, as well as its self-healing nature. The novel approach proposed in this work can potentially be used in the construction of versatile amine-based gel materials for efficient CO2 utilization applications.
Discharge estimation in converging and diverging compound open channels by using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system
Authors: Das B.S. , Devi K. , Khuntia J.R. , Khatua K.K.
Published: November 2019

The computation of total flow in a flooded river is very crucial work in designing economical flood defense schemes and drainage systems. Further, under non-uniform flow conditions like in converging and diverging compound channel, the traditional methods provide poor results with high errors. The analytical methods require the system of nonlinear equations to be solved, which is very complex. So, mathematical models that prompt in taking care of a complex system of problems are solved here through an artificial neural network (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). By utilizing ANN and ANFIS, an attempt is made to predict the discharge in converging and diverging compound channels. In the analysis, the most influencing dimensionless parameters such as friction factor ratio, area ratio, hydraulic radius ratio, bed slope, width ratio, relative flow depth, angle of converging or diverging, relative longitudinal distance, and flow aspect ratio are taken into consideration for computation of discharge. Gamma test and M-test have been performed to achieve the best combinations of input parameters and training length respectively. The significant input parameters that influence the discharge are found to be friction factor ratio, hydraulic radius ratio, relative flow depth, and bed slope. A suitable performance is achieved by the ANFIS model as compared to ANN model with a high coefficient of determination of 0.86 and low root mean square error of 0.005 in predicting the discharge of non-prismatic compound channels taken under consideration.
Evidence for red fox (Vulpes vulpes) exploitation of anthropogenic food sources along an urbanization gradient using stable isotope analysis
Authors: Handler A.M. , Lonsdorf E.V. , Ardia D.R.
Published: November 2019

As urban areas expand, wildlife show adaptations to urban ecosystems. We tested two hypotheses for urban populations of red fox (Vulpes vulpes (Linnaeus, 1758)) in urban areas: the population pressure hypothesis, which posits that urban foxes make do with suboptimal habitat, and the urban island hypothesis, which presumes that urban areas provide high-quality habitat. We investigated habitat quality by investigating anthropogenic food in fox diets across a rural–urban gradient in Lancaster, Pennsylvania (USA). We used stable carbon isotopes because human food can have a distinct stable carbon isotope signature. We collected fox hair and stomach samples from 21 locations and extracted land use and land cover characteristics within a 100 ha buffer area. We found that higher δ13C values in fox hair were positively correlated with impervious surface cover and developed open spaces, key metrics of urbanization, and negatively associated with agricultural land cover, an indicator of rural habitats. Overall, fox hair δ13C was less related to urbanization and more related to the availability of developed open spaces that provide habitat with vegetation cover and access to nearby food sources. Our results suggest that urban habitats are high quality and support the growing literature revealing that certain species may thrive in urban areas.
Generalized phonon density of states of La2−xSrxCuO4cuprate superconductor
Authors: Gupta Anushri , Verma Sanjeev K. , Kumari Anita , Indu B. D.
Published: November 2019

Many body quantum dynamics of phonons is steadily developed by considering the various effects of anharmonicities, defects (consider as doping or impurity concentration) and electron–phonon interactions in model Hamiltonian (instead of BCS Hamiltonian) for a high-temperature superconductor (HTS). This enables to obtain the expressions for the renormalized phonon spectrum, the renormalized phonon density of states (RPDOS). The RPDOS can be resolved into diagonal and nondiagonal parts where the nondiagonal component is found highly impurity-dependent. Considering the suitable Born–Mayer–Huggins (BMH) interaction potential, the renormalized phonon spectrum, RPDOS and generalized phonon density of states (GPDOS) of the La[Formula: see text]Sr[Formula: see text]CuO4layered superconductor have been numerically analyzed and it was found that these quantities depend on doping concentration, anharmonicities, and temperature. The results are compared with the inelastic neutron scattering experimental data of GPDOS for La[Formula: see text]Sr[Formula: see text]CuO4and are found in good agreement. The ratio of deviation in GPDOS to GPDOS at critical temperature ([Formula: see text] K) shows the implicit difference at [Formula: see text]. The impact of defects, anharmonicities, and electron–phonon interactions in the cuprate superconductors virtually modify the scenario of GPDOS and affirm a large number of exotic peaks in the spectrum.
Influence of microstructure on the fatigue behavior of blended elemental Ti-6AL-4V alloy post-consolidated by extrusion
Authors: Romero Carlos , Yang Fei , Bolzoni Leandro
Published: November 2019

The blended elemental (BE) route is currently the main way for obtaining cost-affordable titanium alloys. Via post-consolidation processes like hot isostatic pressing (HIP) or thermomechanical processing, the material can improve its mechanical properties. In this work, a titanium alloy is processed via the BE approach, combined with thermomechanical processing of the sintered billets and subsequently heat treated. The tensile behavior of the sintered, extruded and heat-treated Ti-6Al-4V alloy was studied, finding an overall improvement of the properties after extrusion and a considerable increase in strength without compromising ductility after heat treatment. The high cycle fatigue behavior of the as-extruded alloy was studied by means of axial testing. There is a strong dependence between the location of the initiation of failure of the alloy and its fatigue life, but the defects that initiated failure were facets, not pores. The fatigue life of the as-extruded alloy is comparable to that of other fully-dense powder metallurgy (PM) and wrought Ti-6Al-4V alloys. These findings encourage the use of this route of processing as a balanced approach between low-cost and high-performance titanium alloys.
Specific surface area and neutron scattering analysis of water’s glass transition and micropore collapse in amorphous solid water
Authors: Zhu G. H. , Li H. C. , Underwood I. , Li Z. H.
Published: November 2019

Physico-chemical instability is commonly associated with the amorphous state, and the understanding of instability mechanisms (e.g. the glass transition) involved is essential in designing pharmaceutical products. The glass transition of bulk water might occur at 210 K [Oguni et al., J. Phys. Chem. B 115 (2011) 14023] but it was recently proposed the glass transition of water could happen around 121 K [C. R. Hill et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 116 (2016) 215501]. Note that molecular self-inclusions in a glassy water show relaxation features that are characteristically different from those observed in thermodynamically stable, crystalline solids with inclusions. Here we point out some doubtful results and calculations in Hill et al.’s work [C. R. Hill et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 116 (2016) 215501] which was based on the small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) measurements. We also made some remarks about the possible mistakes in their previous works [C. Mitterdorfer, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 16 (2014) 16013] considering the calculation of the specific surface area. The latter is crucial to the doubtful fixing of the glass transition temperature in Hill et al.’s work [C. R. Hill et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 116 (2016) 215501].
Challenges for geological surveys deriving from global megatrends: The Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources of Germany's perspective and answers
Authors: Watzel Ralph
Published: November 2019

Global population growth, urbanization, increasing standards of living in many developing countries, climate change and reformation of (renewable) energy supply are among the most important trends of the twenty-first century, accompanied by a continuous need for conflict mitigation and peacekeeping as well as civil society's right to political participation. Goals for global sustainable development relate directly to the role and key expertise of geological surveys. The Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources of Germany (BGR) supports these goals by adapting its agenda and scientific skills to global needs under the paradigm of ‘sustainability, responsibility and safety’. Our understanding of sustainability is the balance between economy, ecology and societal needs. Here, we report on the results of the recent adaption process within the BGR, giving a forecast for the upcoming decade. From now on, we will screen socio-economic developments continuously and adapt our work to the needs in politics, economy and society based on our knowledge and experience acquired over the last decades.
EuroGeoSurveys: from a non-profit association to a geological service for Europe
Authors: Vidovic J. , Schavemaker Y. , Witteman T. , Tulstrup J. , van Gessel S. , Piessens K. , Solar S.
Published: November 2019

EuroGeoSurveys (EGS) is a not-for-profit organization representing 37 national geological surveys and some regional surveys; it has an overall workforce of several thousand experts. EGS members provide official, interoperable, homogeneous, reliable, INSPIRE (infrastructure for spatial information in the European Community)-compliant public data on the subsurface for the benefit of society in terms of circular economy development, sustainable management of the subsurface resources, understanding and combatting climate change and the development of infrastructures and mitigation of geology-related natural hazards. The EGS is committed to establishing a geological service for Europe based on three pillars: (1) joint research with impact on EU policy level, which is being implemented through the GeoERA programme (Establishing the European Geological Surveys Research Area to deliver a Geological Service for Europe); (2) harmonizing and sharing pan-European geological data, through the European Geological Data Infrastructure (EGDI); and (3) sharing knowledge, capacities and infrastructure, through the pan-African support to the EGS-Organization of African Geological Surveys (OAGS) Partnership (PanAfGeo project). The EGS will continue to support the EU in its transition to a low-carbon, climate-neutral, resource-efficient, socially and environmentally resilient economy, in full compliance with the United Nations 2030 Agenda and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
The Geological Survey of Finland strengthening its role as a key player in mineral raw materials innovation ecosystems
Authors: Nurmi Pekka A.
Published: November 2019

The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) has over 130 years of history in mapping and studying mineral resources and their sustainable use. This has resulted in a globally top-ranking geodatabase and profound knowledge of Finnish geology and mineral resources, and has had a crucial impact on the continuously developing mining and exploration business in Finland. The basic mandate of the GTK has remained the same, but the strategic focus and mode of operation have changed considerably to meet new demands. Today, the GTK plays a vital role in providing geoscientific expertise and specialist services for a wide range of stakeholders and commercial clients in government, the business sector, academia and the wider community, in Finland and internationally. The GTK is actively building new ways to co-operate with universities, research organizations and companies to support future development and to expand its own expertise. This is further supported by the proactive use of cutting-edge technologies, such as the geomaterials research infrastructure, which allows studies from the nanoscale up to kilotons for diverse applications of mineral materials. The GTK plans to further strengthen its role as a key player in the minerals sector innovation ecosystems with a focus on primary minerals, the circular economy, digital solutions and water issues, which are expected to be essential factors for sustainable development through the 2020s and beyond. The GTK's main challenge is to ensure the continuous enhancement and renewal of expertise, to adapt and respond to future opportunities.
Ubiquity and your future
Authors: Denning Peter J.
Published: November 2019

A perspective on how Ubiquity prepares readers to navigate and shape the future rather than forecasting the future.
Madison's Constitution Under Stress: A Developmental Analysis of Political Polarization
Authors: Pierson Paul , Schickler Eric
Published: November 2019

We present a “developmental” approach to understanding why rising polarization in the United States has not been self-correcting but instead continues to intensify. Under specified conditions, initial increases in polarization may change the meso-environment, including such features as state parties, the structure of media, and the configuration of interest groups. These shifts can in turn influence other aspects of politics, leading to a further intensification of polarization. This analysis has four important benefits: ( a) It directs our attention to the meso-institutional environment of the American polity; ( b) it clarifies the features of the polity that have traditionally limited the extent and duration of polarization, and the reasons why their contemporary impact may be attenuated; ( c) it helps us analyze asymmetrical, or party-specific, aspects of polarization; and ( d) it provides an analytic foundation that connects discussions of American politics to the comparative politics literature on democratic backsliding.
β-Lactoglobulin Heptapeptide Reduces Oxidative Stress in Intestinal Epithelial Cells and Angiotensin II-Induced Vasoconstriction on Mouse Mesenteric Arteries by Induction of Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (Nrf2) Translocation
Authors: Pepe Giacomo , Basilicata Manuela Giovanna , Carrizzo Albino , Adesso Simona , Ostacolo Carmine , Sala Marina , Sommella Eduardo , Ruocco Marco , Cascioferro Stella , Ambrosio Mariateresa , Pisanti Simona , Di Sarno Veronica , Bertamino Alessia , Marzocco Stefania , Vecchione Carmine , Campiglia Pietro
Published: November 2019

Peptides derived from buffalo dairy products possess multiple healthy properties that cannot be exerted as long as they are encrypted in parent proteins. To evaluate the biological activities of encrypted peptide sequences from buffalo ricotta cheese, we performed a simulated gastrointestinal (GI) digestion. Chemical and pharmacological characterization of the digest led to the identification of a novel peptide endowed with antioxidant and antihypertensive action. The GI digest was fractionated by Semiprep-HPLC, and fractions were tested against reactive oxygen species (ROS) release in an H2O2-treated intestinal epithelial cell line. UHPLC-PDA-MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of an abundant β-lactoglobulin peptide (BRP2) in the most active fraction. Pharmacological characterization of BRP2 highlighted its antioxidant activity, involving ROS reduction, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation, and cytoprotective enzyme expression. The bioavailability of BRP2 was evaluated in intestinal transport studies through a Caco-2 cell monolayer. Equal bidirectional transport and linear permeability indicate that BRP2 was absorbed mainly through passive diffusion. In addition to its local effects, the BRP2 administration on mouse mesenteric arteries was able to reduce the angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction by the Nrf2 nuclear translocation, the reduction of the active form of Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1), and the NADPH oxidase activity. These data further highlight the role of buffalo ricotta cheese-derived peptides against oxidative stress-related diseases and suggest their health-promoting potential.
Improved Fastener‐Based Modelling Method for Reinforced Cold‐Formed Steel Shear Walls
Authors: Wang Xingxing , Li Youcheng , Wang Wei , Gao Shangxin
Published: November 2019

The fastener‐based computational model is improved and extended to predict the shear performance of reinforced cold‐formed steel (RCFS) shear walls. The failure mechanism of sheathing‐to‐stud connections with double‐layer wallboards is first analysed, and a method for determining those connections’ shear properties is proposed. Numerical models of RCFS shear walls are then established and analysed. Based on simulated results that have been fully validated by previous test results, an equivalent method for perforated RCFS shear walls is proposed. Finally, the application of the improved fastener‐based modelling method to mid‐rise RCFS shear walls is verified. The following results were obtained. (1) The simulated load‐displacement curves can fully reflect shear wall hysteretic characteristics; moreover, the relative errors between the simulated and test results are within 14.2%. (2) The equivalent method that simplifies the wall segment over an opening as a linear elastic beam is applicable in the case of 1.5 < b/d (i.e., the ratio of the opening width to the depth of the wall segment over the opening) ≤5.0. (3) The improved fastener‐based modelling method can be used to effectively predict the lateral performance of mid‐rise RCFS shear walls.
Study of Frequency and Characteristics of Red Blood Cell Alloimmunization in Thalassemic Patients: Multicenter Study from Palestine
Authors: Abu Taha Adham , Yaseen Ahmad , Suleiman Sa’d , Abu Zenah Omar , Ali Hammam , Abu Seir Rania , Younis Khaled
Published: November 2019

Background. β-Thalassemia is a common inherited hemolytic disorder in Palestine. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is the principal treatment but it may cause RBC alloimmunization. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and characteristics of RBC alloimmunization among thalassemic patients in northern governorates of Palestine. Methods. A prospective multicenter observational study was conducted in the thalassemia transfusion centers in the northern governorates of Palestine. The study included 215 thalassemia patients who received regular blood transfusions. Clinical and transfusion records of patients were examined. Antibody screening and identification was conducted using the microcolum gel technique. Results. Two hundred fifteen patients were included in the study. More than half (52.1%) of the patients were males. The median age of patients was 18 years (range: 12–24 years). The most frequent blood group was A (40.5%). Alloantibodies were detected in 12.6% of patients. Anti-D (33.3%), anti-K (25.9%) and anti-E (14.8%) were the most commonly isolated antibodies. There was no association between age, sex, starting age of transfusion, number of transfused units, history of splenectomy and alloimmunization. Conclusions. Anti-Rh and anti-K antibodies were common among this cohort of patients. Age, sex, starting age of transfusion, number of transfused units, and history of splenectomy could not predict the occurrence of alloimmunization.
Research on Shear Capacity and Checking Method of MT·G-Joint for Application in Prefabricated Underground Structures
Authors: Yang Xiuren , Shi Zhongheng , Lin Fang
Published: November 2019

The MT·G-Joint (grouted mortise-tenon joint), invented as the connection between the large prefabricated elements, is the most important component in the prefabricated underground structures. Its shear performance is critical to the overall mechanical performance of the prefabricated structure. This paper carries out four-point pure shear experiment to investigate the shear performance of the MT·G-Joint. The shear key method is then proved to be suitable for MT·G-Joint when the axial load is 0 kN based on the experimental results. In addition, combining the shear key method and experimental results, the calculation method of the shear capacity, improved shear key method (ISKM), is proposed on account of the mechanical model of the failure plane. ISKM is appropriate for different load conditions. Finally, every kind of joints used in the prefabricated metro station structures on Changchun Metro Line 2 is calculated by using ISKM. The results indicate that the shear capacity of the MT·G-Joint is good, and the used joints still have large safety margin even under the worst working condition. The findings of this study are of value to help researchers and engineers more effectively design prefabricated underground structures.
Apolipoprotein E Deficiency Causes Endothelial Dysfunction in the Mouse Retina
Authors: Zadeh Jenia Kouchek , Zhutdieva Mayagozel B. , Laspas Panagiotis , Yuksel Can , Musayeva Aytan , Pfeiffer Norbert , Brochhausen Christoph , Oelze Matthias , Daiber Andreas , Xia Ning , Li Huige , Gericke Adrian
Published: November 2019

Objective. Atherogenic lipoproteins may impair vascular reactivity consecutively causing tissue damage in multiple organs via abnormal perfusion and excessive reactive oxygen species generation. We tested the hypothesis that chronic hypercholesterolemia causes endothelial dysfunction and cell loss in the retina. Methods. Twelve-month-old apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice and age-matched wild-type controls were used in this study (n=8 per genotype for each experiment). Intraocular pressure, blood pressure, and ocular perfusion pressure were determined. Retinal arteriole responses were studied in vitro, and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species were quantified in the retinal and optic nerve cryosections. The expression of the lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) and the NADPH oxidase isoforms, NOX1, NOX2, and NOX4, were determined in retinal cryosections by immunofluorescence microscopy. Pro- and antioxidant redox genes were quantified in retinal explants by PCR. Moreover, cell number in the retinal ganglion cell layer and axon number in the optic nerve was calculated. Results. Responses to the endothelium-dependent vasodilator, acetylcholine, were markedly impaired in retinal arterioles of ApoE-/- mice (P<0.01). LOX-1 (P=0.0007) and NOX2 (P=0.0027) expressions as well as levels of reactive oxygen species (P=0.0022) were increased in blood vessels but not in other retinal structures. In contrast, reactive nitrogen species were barely detectable in both mouse genotypes. Messenger RNA for HIF-1α, VEGF-A, NOX1, and NOX2, but also for various antioxidant redox genes was elevated in the retina of ApoE-/- mice. Total cell number in the retinal ganglion cell layer did not differ between ApoE-/- and wild-type mice (P=0.2171). Also, axon number in the optic nerve did not differ between ApoE-/- and wild-type mice (P=0.6435). Conclusion. Apolipoprotein E deficiency induces oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction in retinal arterioles, which may trigger hypoxia in the retinal tissue. Oxidative stress in nonvascular retinal tissue appears to be prevented by the upregulation of antioxidant redox enzymes, resulting in neuron preservation.
Effects of Anti-Cytokine Antibodies on Gut Barrier Function
Authors: Liu Fang , Lee Seul A. , Riordan Stephen M. , Zhang Li , Zhu Lixin
Published: November 2019

Anti-cytokine antibodies are used in treating chronic inflammatory diseases and autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatic diseases. Patients with these diseases often have a compromised gut barrier function, suggesting that anti-cytokine antibodies may contribute to the re-establishment of gut barrier integrity, in addition to their immunomodulatory effects. This paper reviews the effects of anti-cytokine antibodies on gut barrier function and their mechanisms.
Pathogen-Boosted Adoptive Cell Transfer Therapy Induces Endogenous Antitumor Immunity through Antigen Spreading
Authors: Xin Gang , Khatun Achia , Topchyan Paytsar , Zander Ryan , Volberding Peter J. , Chen Yao , Shen Jian , Fu Chunmei , Jiang Aimin , See William A. , Cui Weiguo
Published: November 2019

Loss of target antigens in tumor cells has become one of the major hurdles limiting the efficacy of adoptive cell therapy (ACT)–based immunotherapies. The optimal approach to overcome this challenge includes broadening the immune response from the initially targeted tumor-associated antigen (TAA) to other TAAs expressed in the tumor. To induce a more broadly targeted antitumor response, we utilized our previously developed Re-energized ACT (ReACT), which capitalizes on the synergistic effect of pathogen-based immunotherapy and ACT. In this study, we showed that ReACT induced a sufficient endogenous CD8+ T-cell response beyond the initial target to prevent the outgrowth of antigen loss variants in a B16-F10 melanoma model. Sequentially, selective depletion experiments revealed that Batf3-driven cDC1s were essential for the activation of endogenous tumor-specific CD8+ T cells. In ReACT-treated mice that eradicated tumors, we observed that endogenous CD8+ T cells differentiated into memory cells and facilitated the rejection of local and distal tumor rechallenge. By targeting one TAA with ReACT, we provided broader TAA coverage to counter antigen escape and generate a durable memory response against local relapse and metastasis.

See related Spotlight on p. 2
Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection in Patients With a Provisional Diagnosis of Takotsubo Syndrome
Authors: Hausvater Anaïs , Smilowitz Nathaniel R. , Saw Jacqueline , Sherrid Mark , Ali Thara , Espinosa Dalisa , Mersha Rediet , DeFonte Maria , Reynolds Harmony R.
Published: November 2019

Background

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) mimics acute myocardial infarction in the absence of culprit coronary artery disease and is more common in women. Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) shares a predilection for women, can result in left ventricular wall motion abnormalities similar to TTS, and may manifest subtle angiographic findings. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of SCAD misdiagnosed as TTS.

Methods and Results

Coronary angiograms of patients presenting with a provisional diagnosis of TTS were retrospectively reviewed by an independent expert blinded to left ventriculography and the specific purpose of the study to assess for SCAD. TTS was defined using European Society for Cardiology criteria. SCAD was categorized according to the Saw angiographic classification. Among 80 women with a provisional diagnosis of TTS, 2 (2.5%) met angiographic criteria for definite SCAD. Both dissections were located in the distal left anterior descending coronary artery and classified as type 2b. The wall motion abnormality was apical in both cases. An additional 7 patients (9%) had angiography that was indeterminate for SCAD. Clinical characteristics of patients with and without SCAD were similar.

Conclusions

Among patients with a provisional diagnosis of TTS, definite SCAD in the left anterior descending coronary artery was present in 2.5% of cases, and coronary angiography was indeterminate for SCAD in an additional 9%. Careful review of coronary angiography may avoid missed diagnoses of SCAD in patients with myocardial infarction, nonobstructive coronary arteries, and wall motion abnormalities consistent with TTS. Intracoronary imaging maybe considered to establish a definitive diagnosis of SCAD when angiography is inconclusive.
Perceptions of Public and Nonpublic Reporting of Interventional Cardiology Outcomes and Its Impact on Practice: Insights From the Veterans Affairs Clinical Assessment, Reporting, and Tracking Program
Authors: Morrison Justin , Plomondon Mary E. , O'Donnell Colin I. , Giri Jay , Doll Jacob A. , Valle Javier A. , Waldo Stephen W.
Published: November 2019

Background

Physicians have expressed significant mistrust with public reporting of interventional cardiology outcomes. Similar data are not available on alternative reporting structures, including nonpublic quality improvement programs with internally distributed measures of interventional quality. We thus sought to evaluate the perceptions of public and nonpublic reporting of interventional cardiology outcomes and its impact on clinical practice.

Methods and Results

A standardized survey was distributed to 218 interventional cardiologists in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, with responses received from 62 (28%). The majority of respondents (90%) expressed some or a great deal of trust in the analytic methods used to generate reports in a nonpublic quality improvement system within Veterans Affairs, while a minority (35%) expressed similar trust in the analytic methods in a public reporting system that operates outside Veterans Affairs (
P
<0.001). Similarly, a minority of respondents (44%) felt that in‐hospital and 30‐day mortality accurately reflected interventional quality in a nonpublic quality improvement system, though a smaller proportion of survey participants (15%) felt that the same outcome reflected procedural quality in public reporting systems (
P
<0.001). Despite these sentiments, the majority of operators did not feel pressured to avoid (82% and 75%;
P
=0.383) or perform (72% and 63%;
P
=0.096) high‐risk procedures within or outside Veterans Affairs.

Conclusions

Interventional cardiologists express greater trust in analytic methods and clinical outcomes reported in a nonpublic quality improvement program than external public reporting environments. The majority of physicians did not feel pressured to avoid or perform high‐risk procedures, which may improve access to interventional care among high‐risk patients.
Go Means Green: Diasporas’ Affinity for Ecological Groups
Authors: Turcu Anca , Urbatsch R.
Published: November 2019

Recent expansions of diaspora rights have given overseas residents increasing political voice. This is particularly significant for environmental politics, because expatriates’ distinctive values, which are typically more cosmopolitan and multicultural than those of domestic voters, are likely to align with values of green organizations. Large- N analyses of an original, cross-national data set of election returns confirm this hypothesis: political parties from the ecological family receive larger shares of the emigrant vote than of the domestic vote, even when controlling for other factors that may win diaspora votes. Enhancing expatriates’ political power may accordingly increase the influence of a country’s environmentalist groups and parties.
Macromitrium incrustatifolium Robins. new to China

Authors: Zhang Li , Chau Lawrence
Published: November 2019

Macromitrium incrustatifolium Robins. is reported as a new addition to the bryoflora of China, and Macromitrium yunnanense L. Zhang, nom. nud. is reduced to a synonym of Macromitrium incrustatifolium.
Bryophytes from the Republic of Equatorial Guinea (West Central Africa). V. Diplasiolejeunea cogoensis sp. nov.

Authors: Infante Marta , Heras Patxi , Pócs Tamás
Published: November 2019

Diplasiolejeunea cogoensis is described as new from Equatorial Guinea (West Central Africa). It is included in Sectio Villaumeae, it is recognisable by its big size, the auriculated dorsal base of lobe, its long and always double first tooth and the shape and location of propaguliferous leaves.
New synonymy of Chaetomitriopsis glaucocarpa (Hypnaceae, Musci)
Authors: Akiyama Hiroyuki
Published: November 2019

Chaetomitrium sublaevisetum Dixon, originally known from Sumatra and newly reported from Borneo, was reduced to a synonym of Chaetomitriopsis glaucocarpa (Reinw. in Schwaegr.) M.Fleisch.
Studies on African Calymperaceae, VII. New records and identification key of species of the non-leucobryoid Calymperaceae species of Madagascar
Authors: Orbán S.
Published: November 2019

Abstract: Calymperes motleyi Mitt. ex Dozy & Molk., Mitthyridium flavum (Müll.Hal.) H. Rob., Syrrhopodon croceus Mitt. and S. incompletus Schwägr. var. incompletus are new to Madagascar and S. leprieurii Mont. is a new American-African disjunct species, S. cuneifolius Thér. is recognized as a synonym of S. leprieurii. All taxa of Calymperaceae (Calymperes 10, Mitthyridium 2, Syrrhopodon 21) known from Madagascar are listed below with more than 100 new distribution data. The key and the distribution patterns of taxa are also published.
Magelonidae (Polychaeta) from Hong Kong, China, with discussions on related species and redescriptions of three species
Authors: MORTIMER KATE , MACKIE ANDREW S. Y.
Published: November 2019

A review of the Magelonidae from three surveys carried out in Hong Kong waters revealed the presence of three species: Magelona crenulifrons Gallardo, 1968, Magelona cornuta Wesenberg-Lund, 1949, and Magelona cf. cincta. Type materials of M. crenulifrons and M. cornuta were examined and redescriptions undertaken. Magelona cornuta was shown to possess a crenulate anterior margin, and the nature of the thoracic neuropodial lamellae was found to differ from the original description. Comparison with M. crenulifrons revealed these two species to be very morphologically similar, differing however, in several features that require close examination, including the dentition of the abdominal hooks. The presence of a species matching the description of Magelona cincta led to a redescription of the type specimen. Whilst the Hong Kong material shared many similarities with the holotype, several differences were noted. However, due to size variation between the material, the species cannot be currently described as new and is treated separately herein. Material collected from the Gulf of Oman was subsequently studied and revealed the presence of M. crenulifrons off Iran and Qatar, however, M. cornuta which was originally described from Iranian waters, was not present. Additional information has been added to species descriptions and the relationship between Indo-West Pacific species discussed.
Three new serpulids (Polychaeta: Serpulidae) from the Brazilian Exclusive Economic Zone
Authors: DE MATOS NOGUEIRA JOÃO MIGUEL , ABBUD ADRIANO
Published: November 2019

Three new species of serpulids from Brazil are described herein, two of which were described, but not named, by Zibrowius are here considered as new species and given specific names. Vermiliopsis zibrowii sp. nov. is characterized by an operculum with a single endplate or several septa progressively nearer to each other towards the tip and which are separated by conspicuous ribs. Pseudovermilia harryi sp. nov. has an operculum with several septa separated by short ribs and its tube is different from similar congeners. Filogranula revizee sp. nov. has an operculum with a sunken funnel and, frequently, a slender, distally sharp spine. Comparisons between these three species and related species are provided
Morphological variation of axial non-muscular proboscis types in the Polychaeta
Authors: TZETLIN ALEXANDER , ZHADAN ANNA
Published: November 2019

The fine structure of mouth parts was studied in 19 species from 13 genera belonging to the three families that are known to have a soft non-muscular axial proboscis: Orbiniidae, Opheliidae, and Scalibregmatidae. Four types of mouth structures divergent from the simple non-muscular axial proboscis were found. (1) A bubble-like symmetrical ciliated proboscis was found in both Ophelia and Euzonus, genera in the subfamily Opheliinae. A similar mouth structure is known for Paraonidae, Capitellidae, and some Maldanidae. (2) A folded symmetrical axial proboscis with well-developed ciliated lobes that form a complicated structure with intricate patterns; the mouth opening is terminal, and the whole structure is symmetrical. Orbiniidae, Scalibregmatidae, and Travisia (Opheliidae) have this type. (3) An asymmetrical dorsal lobed proboscis. The plane of asymmetry is dorsoventral. It is a tongue-like lobed or flattened eversible structure. The mouth opening is situated below and behind it. When inverted into the pharyngeal cavity, the entire structure is rooted dorsally. It is found in all studied species of Ophelina and Polyophthalmus and in Armandia brevis. (4) Oral tentacles (about 12 ciliated tentacles). When retracted, the oral tentacles are situated dorsally in the pharyngeal cavity, similar to the folds of an asymmetrical lobed proboscis (type 3). Contractor muscles and vascular vessels are found inside the cavity of the tentacles. This type is found in Armandia maculata and A. leptocirrus. A tentative scheme of transformation of the soft axial proboscis is presented. Three main trends of proboscis transformation in the Scolecida are discussed: (1) enlargement of the ciliated surface of the proboscis by the development of numerous folds and intricate patterns, (2) appearance of an asymmetrical proboscis, and (3) transformation of the asymmetrical dorsal lobed proboscis into oral tentacles.
Arenicolid behaviors: similarity of Arenicola marina and Abarenicola pacifica

Authors: WOODIN SARAH ANN , WETHEY DAVID S.
Published: November 2019

The hydraulic activities of two arenicolid polychaetes, Abarenicola pacifica and Arenicola marina, result in strikingly similar pressure waveforms. The principal hydraulic activities are defecation, burrowing and feeding/burrow maintenance. Both the duration and magnitudes of the pressures are very similar. The behavioral periodicities of the two species are also quite similar, although burrowing is more common in A. pacifica than in A. marina. Additionally burrowing activities in A. marina appear to be more influenced by tidal stage than those in A. pacifica. The link between burrowing and pore-water pressure reductions makes this difference potentially important in terms of drawing oxygenated water into surface sediments
Distribution of Idanthyrsus cretus (Polychaeta: Sabellariidae) in the Tropical Eastern Pacific and application of PCR-RAPD for population analysis

Authors: BARRIOS L. M. , CHAMBERS S. J. , ISMAIL N. , GUZMAN H. M. , MAIR J. M.
Published: November 2019

Sabellariid polychaetes, commonly known as honeycomb worms, are capable of forming large reef-like aggregations. One species, Idanthyrsus cretus, has recently been found in several localities during surveys of Las Perlas Archipelago, Pacific Panama. Large reefs of this species have not been recorded elsewhere in the Tropical Eastern Pacific. The reef distribution patterns were examined and mapped with the aid of Geographical Information Systems. Principal Component Analysis showed that the distribution of polychaete reefs in Las Perlas Archipelago and the reef building itself seem to be mainly dependent on depth, suitable substrate, and topography, the potential particle size for tube building, and wave exposure. Cluster analysis of Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA with Polymerase Chain Reaction molecular techniques demonstrated that the polychaete reefs in Las Perlas Archipelago may be derived from one population.
Sabellaria alveolata (Linnaeus) reefs in the central Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy) and associated polychaete fauna

Authors: LA PORTA BARBARA , NICOLETTI LUISA
Published: November 2019

The aim of this research was to analyze the morphological features of Sabellaria alveolata reefs and the associated polychaete fauna in three different coastal areas of the Tyrrhenian Sea (Mediterranean Sea, Italy). We assessed the relationship between the physical structure of the reefs and the associated fauna. We also investigated possible connections between polychaete assemblage structure and reef development on spatial and temporal scales. Reefs were morphologically described, and the polychaete assemblages were studied using community indices, as well as multivariate and univariate statistics. Three different reef states were described, linked to their respective phase of development. The structure of the associated polychaete assemblages differed according to the relevant reef’s phase of development. Species richness was high in reefs in destruction phase, while it decreased in recovering reefs.
Two new species of Diplocirrus (Polychaeta: Flabelligeridae) from the southern Irish Sea and South Africa

Authors: DARBYSHIRE TERESA , MACKIE ANDREW S. Y.
Published: November 2019

Two new species of Diplocirrus Haase, 1915 are described from the southern Irish Sea and South Africa. Diplocirrus stopbowitzi sp. nov., identified from several surveys around the Irish Sea in recent years, favors coarser sediments than D. glaucus (Malmgren, 1867), the only other species of Diplocirrus identified from the area. It is morphologically closest to D. capensis Day, 1961 from South Africa, due to a combination of characters (multiarticulated, hooked neurochaetae, cephalic cage absent) that have previously been considered unique to D. capensis within the genus. The other new species, D. incognitus, is described from material identified by Day as D. capensis and deposited in the Natural History Museum, London. In appearance, it approaches D. glaucus but differs most noticeably in the relative size of adherent sediment particles and in the length of papillae clustered around the notochaetae. The two new species exhibit characters that bridge the gap between D. capensis, previously considered anomalous, and the other members of the genus. The significance of hooked neurochaetae is discussed following the discovery of such chaetae on specimens of D. glaucus and D. hirsutus. Diplocirrus glaucus, D. capensis, and the two new species each possess the same two branchial forms: stout, cuneiform with longitudinal ciliated ridges and cirriform with transverse ciliated rings. Comparisons are also made with the morphologically similar genera Bradiella Rullier, 1965 and Diversibranchius Buzhinskaja, 1994.
On the 11.755 insect taxa named by Charles P. Alexander
Authors: OOSTERBROEK PJOTR
Published: November 2019

Charles P. Alexander is the author of 11.755 insect taxa, the large majority of which are in the four families of craneflies (Diptera, Tipuloidea). After a short biography, an overview is presented of the number of taxa in relation to biogeographical regions, families, synonyms, etc. in craneflies (11.556 names) as well as in nine other families of Diptera (198 names) and one in Plecoptera. For craneflies, the Alexander taxa cover about 70% of all species names and some 46% of the genera and subgenera of the world.