bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relations of sovereignty: The uneven production of transnational plantation territories in Laos
Authors: Kenney‐Lazar Miles
Published: October 2019

The contemporary emergence of land grabbing across the Global South has been framed by critics as a threat to the national territorial sovereignty of postcolonial societies. Such concerns hinge on conventional notions of sovereignty as an abstract form of power possessed by the state and lost to global forces. However, the transfer of domestic lands into the hands of foreign investors is complicated by the contested and relational nature of authority in resource frontier spaces. Critical scholarship has shown that sovereignty in practice – the production of control and authority within spatial fields – is dynamic, contested, and variegated. It has further staked out an ontology of sovereignty as relational, although not explicitly stated in such terms. This paper employs the insights of relational geography to advance theorisation of sovereignty’s relationality: the contested and consensual relations among heterogeneous actors that produce and transform authority in complex and variegated spaces. I demonstrate the value of this approach by examining Vietnamese and Chinese industrial tree plantation companies’ differential access to land in Southern Laos, based on 20 months of ethnographic fieldwork. Each company differed in their access to land granted to them by the central Lao government due to the types of socio‐political relations that they developed at various administrative scales of the Lao state. Such relations shaped their co‐production of sovereignty driven by logics of centralised state territorialisation and capital accumulation. When such state–capital relations broke down, opportunities emerged for resistance by peasants who shifted relations of sovereignty toward their own interests.
Probable transfusion transmission of West Nile virus from an apheresis platelet that screened non‐reactive by individual donor‐nucleic acid testing
Authors: Hayes Chelsea , Stephens Laura , Fridey Joy L. , Snyder Robert E. , Groves Jamel A. , Stramer Susan L. , Klapper Ellen
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Despite West Nile virus (WNV) blood donation screening using nucleic acid testing (NAT), donors with low viral loads not detected by mini‐pool‐NAT have led to transfusion transmitted (TT)‐WNV infection. We describe a probable case of fatal TT‐WNV infection from an individual donor (ID)‐NAT non‐reactive apheresis platelet donation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

An apheresis platelet donation was WNV ID‐NAT reactive and prior donations from the same donor were investigated. A WNV ID‐NAT non‐reactive apheresis platelet unit collected 26 days earlier was transfused during heart transplantation to a patient who subsequently developed WNV neuroinvasive disease and expired. The source of the recipient's WNV infection was investigated.

RESULTS

Twenty‐six days after collection of the suspect platelet unit, a donation from the same donor was WNV ID‐NAT reactive and WNV IgM and IgG positive. In addition to the suspect platelet unit, the heart transplant recipient who developed WNV infection received 17 blood components from 24 donors. Serologic testing performed on 11 of the remaining 24 donors (46%) was WNV IgM negative. Pre‐transplant recipient and heart donor samples tested WNV RNA and IgM negative.

CONCLUSION

A probable case of fatal neuroinvasive TT‐WNV was linked to an infectious apheresis platelet unit undetected by WNV ID‐NAT. It is hypothesized that the suspect unit was collected early in the viremic period when viral RNA was below the limit‐of‐detection of the ID‐NAT assay. Implementation of ID‐NAT screening of blood donors has not entirely eliminated the risk of TT‐WNV infections, which may best be addressed by pathogen inactivation technologies.
Is there an association between vitamin D and diabetic foot disease? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yammine Kaissar , Hayek Fady , Assi Chahine
Published: October 2019

It has been demonstrated that Vitamin D (25(OH)D) deficiency is associated with diabetes and with diabetic neuropathy. Some reports stated that vitamin D deficiency is also associated with diabetic foot ulcer and/or infection. Knowing the beneficial effect of vitamin D on wound healing, a quantitative evidence synthesis is needed to look for such association. Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched for from inception. The outcomes were set to be either the serum 25(OH)D level or the prevalence of patients with 25(OH)D with severe deficiency. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria with 1,644 patients; 817 diabetic patients with foot ulcers and 827 patients having diabetes without foot complications. The weighted mean differences was −0.93 (95% CI = −1.684 to −0.174, I2 = 97.8%, p = 0.01). The odds ratio of having severe vitamin D deficiency was 3.6 (95% CI = 2.940 to 4.415, I2 = 40.9%, p < 0.0001), in favor of the foot group. The quality of the included studies was found to be good to excellent. Diabetic foot complications are associated with significantly lower levels of vitamin D. Patients with diabetic ulcers or diabetic infection are at higher risk of bearing severe vitamin D deficiency. Knowing the beneficial effect of vitamin D on wound healing, it is likely that recognizing and supplementing with vitamin D could prevent or improve the outcomes of diabetic foot complications.
BIOMATH-2019 International Conference and School for Young Scientists
Authors: Lazarova Meglena , Markov Svetoslav Marinov
Published: October 2019

This is a brief report on the BIOMATH-2019 International Conference and School for Young Scientists held in Bedlewo, Poland.
Branching Stochastic Evolutionary Models of Cell Populations
Authors: Hyrien Ollivier , Yanev Nikolay M.
Published: October 2019

This review paper surveys results on branching stochastic models with and without immigration published during the past nine years. Studies of this class of stochastic models were motivated by the quantitative analysis of the dynamics of population of cells of the central nervous system, called the terminally differentiated oligodendrocytes, and their progenitor cells. We focus on original ideasspecifically developed for Sevastyanov branching processes allowing the contribution of an external cellular compartment (e.g., stem cells) via anonhomogeneous Poisson immigration process. Limiting distributions are discribed in the subcritical, critical and supercritical cases for various immigration rates.
Do-It-Yourself Low-Cost Desktop Lightboard for Engaging Flipped Learning Videos
Authors: Hay Katrina , Wiren Zachary
Published: October 2019

A prelecture video can be made more engaging with a lightboard. With this method, an instructor presents material in a video while directly facing the camera and writing on a transparent screen in front of them. We present instructions for constructing an inexpensive removable desktop lightboard that can be stored as smaller pieces. We share tips for basic lightboard video editing (notably flipping the visual right-to-left) that results in visually striking, engaging videos for students, personalized by the instructor.
From the simple to the surprisingly complex – An incremental study of elasticity
Authors: Allen Bradley
Published: October 2019

We can often find beautifully complex phenomena hidden in seemingly basic systems. This column describes a sequence of experiments that introductory students can undertake to explore elastic systems. The three experiments are all stylistically unique, but they share the feature of guided inquiry, posing a problem for the students, and allowing them the freedom to investigate.
Hydrogen Does Not Appear To Be a Major Electron Donor for Symbiosis with the Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vent Tubeworm Riftia pachyptila
Authors: Mitchell Jessica H. , Leonard Juliana M. , Delaney Jennifer , Girguis Peter R. , Scott Kathleen M.
Published: October 2019

Despite the presence of hydrogenase genes, transcripts, and proteins in the “
Ca
. Endoriftia persephone” genome, transcriptome, and proteome, it does not appear that
R. pachyptila
can use H
2
as a major electron donor. For many uncultivable microorganisms, omic analyses are the basis for inferences about their activities
in situ
. However, as is apparent from the study reported here, there are dangers in extrapolating from omics data to function, and it is essential, whenever possible, to verify functions predicted from omics data with physiological and biochemical measurements.
Genotyping of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Rifampin Resistance-Associated Mutations by Use of Data from Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra Enables Large-Scale Tuberculosis Molecular Epidemiology Studies
Authors: Weinrick Brian
Published: October 2019

Molecular epidemiology studies of tuberculosis have been empowered in recent years by the availability of whole-genome sequencing, which has allowed a new focus on the adaptive significance of drug resistance mutations. Genome sequencing technology remains expensive, however, limiting the potential for larger studies.
A Recombinant Rhesus Monkey Rhadinovirus Deleted of Glycoprotein L Establishes Persistent Infection of Rhesus Macaques and Elicits Conventional T Cell Responses
Authors: Hahn Alexander S. , Bischof Georg F. , Großkopf Anna K. , Shin Young C. , Domingues Aline , Gonzalez-Nieto Lucas , Rakasz Eva G. , Watkins David I. , Ensser Armin , Martins Mauricio A. , Desrosiers Ronald C.
Published: October 2019

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is associated with a substantial disease burden in sub-Saharan Africa, often in the context of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The related rhesus monkey rhadinovirus (RRV) has shown potential as a vector to immunize monkeys with antigens from simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), the macaque model for HIV. KSHV and RRV engage cellular receptors from the Eph family via the viral gH/gL glycoprotein complex. We have now generated a recombinant RRV that expresses the SIV Gag antigen and does not express gL. This recombinant RRV was infectious by the intravenous route, established persistent infection in the B cell compartment, and elicited strong immune responses to the SIV Gag antigen. These results argue against a role for gL and Eph family receptors in B cell infection by RRVin vivoand have implications for the development of a live-attenuated KSHV vaccine or vaccine vector.
A Polyuridine Insertion in the 3′ Untranslated Region of Classical Swine Fever Virus Activates Immunity and Reduces Viral Virulence in Piglets
Authors: Wang Miaomiao , Liniger Matthias , Muñoz-González Sara , Bohórquez José Alejandro , Hinojosa Yoandry , Gerber Markus , López-Soria Sergio , Rosell Rosa , Ruggli Nicolas , Ganges Llilianne
Published: October 2019

Classical swine fever (CSF), a highly contagious viral disease of pigs, is still endemic in some countries of Asia and Central and South America. Considering that the 3′ untranslated region (3′ UTR) plays an important role in flavivirus replication, the present study showed for the first time that a long polyuridine sequence acquired in the 3′ UTR by an endemic CSFV isolate can activate immunity, control viral replication, and modulate disease in piglets. Our findings provide new avenues for the development of novel vaccines against infections with CSF virus and other flaviviruses. Knowledge of molecular virulence determinants is also relevant for future development of rapid and efficient diagnostic tools for the prediction of the virulence of field isolates and for efficient CSF control.
Clustering as a Means To Control Nitrate Respiration Efficiency and Toxicity in Escherichia coli
Authors: Bulot Suzy , Audebert Stéphane , Pieulle Laetitia , Seduk Farida , Baudelet Emilie , Espinosa Leon , Pizay Marie-Camille , Camoin Luc , Magalon Axel
Published: October 2019

Most bacteria rely on the redox activity of respiratory complexes embedded in the cytoplasmic membrane to gain energy in the form of ATP and of an electrochemical gradient established across the membrane. Nevertheless, production of harmful and toxic nitric oxide by actively growing bacteria as either an intermediate or side-product of nitrate respiration challenges how homeostasis control is exerted. Here, we show that components of the nitrate electron transport chain are clustered, likely influencing the kinetics of the process. Nitric oxide production from this respiratory chain is controlled and handled through a multiprotein complex, including detoxifying systems. These findings point to an essential role of compartmentalization of respiratory components in bacterial cell growth.
Comprehensive Analysis Reveals the Evolution and Pathogenicity of
Aeromonas
, Viewed from Both Single Isolated Species and Microbial Communities
Authors: Zhong Chaofang , Han Maozhen , Yang Pengshuo , Chen Chaoyun , Yu Hui , Wang Lusheng , Ning Kang
Published: October 2019

Aeromonas
has long been known as a gastrointestinal pathogen, yet it has many species whose evolutionary dynamics and genetic diversity had been unclear until now. We have conducted pan-genome analysis for 29
Aeromonas
species and revealed a high level of genome plasticity exhibited by hundreds of gene expansions and contractions, horizontally transferred genes, and mobile genetic elements. These species also contained many virulence factors both identified from single isolated species and microbial community. This pan-genome study could elevate the level for detection and prevention of
Aeromonas
infections.
Global large solutions to planar magnetohydrodynamics equations with temperature-dependent coefficients
Authors: Li Yachun , Shang Zhaoyang
Published: October 2019

We consider the planar compressible magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) system for a viscous and heat-conducting ideal polytropic gas, when the viscosity, magnetic diffusion and heat conductivity depend on the specific volume [Formula: see text] and the temperature [Formula: see text]. For technical reasons, the viscosity coefficients, magnetic diffusion and heat conductivity are assumed to be proportional to [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a non-degenerate and smooth function satisfying some natural conditions. We prove the existence and uniqueness of the global-in-time classical solution to the initial-boundary value problem when general large initial data are prescribed and the exponent [Formula: see text] is sufficiently small. A similar result is also established for planar Hall-MHD equations.
Sharp lifespan estimates of blowup solutions to semi-linear wave equations with time-dependent effective damping
Authors: Ikeda Masahiro , Sobajima Motohiro , Wakasugi Yuta
Published: October 2019

We consider the initial value problem for a semi-linear wave equation with a time-dependent effective damping term. The interest is the behavior of lifespan of solutions in view of the asymptotic profile of the coefficient of damping as time tends to infinity. A simple case of effective damping and a threshold case in the sense of overdamping were discussed in Ikeda and Wakasugi (2015) and Ikeda and Inui (2019), respectively. We discuss here general damping terms under a certain assumption that is discussed. The result of this paper is the sharp lifespan estimates of blowup solutions including the typical cases treated in previous studies. The proof of the upper bound of lifespan is a modification of the test-function method by Ikeda–Sobajima (2019) and the one of lower bound is based on the technique of scaling variables introduced by Gallay and Raugel (1998) for the one-dimensional case and Wakasugi (2017) for the higher-dimensional case.
Combing Instrumental Variable and Variance Matching for Aircraft Flutter Model Parameters Identification
Authors: Jianwang Hong , Ramirez-Mendoza Ricardo A. , Lozoya Santos Jorge de J.
Published: October 2019

When the observed input‐output data are corrupted by the observed noises in the aircraft flutter stochastic model, we need to obtain the more exact aircraft flutter model parameters to predict the flutter boundary accuracy and assure flight safety. So, here we combine the instrumental variable method in system identification theory and variance matching in modern spectrum theory to propose a new identification strategy: instrumental variable variance method. In the aircraft flutter stochastic model, after introducing instrumental variable to develop a covariance function, a new criterion function, composed by a difference between the theory value and actual estimation value of the covariance function, is established. Now, the new criterion function based on the covariance function can be used to identify the unknown parameter vector in the transfer function form. Finally, we apply this new instrumental variable variance method to identify the transfer function in one electrical current loop of flight simulator and aircraft flutter model parameters. Several simulation experiments have been performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm proposed in this paper.
The Feasibility and Histological Diagnostic Accuracy of Novel Menghini Needle (EUS Sonopsy CY™) for Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of Solid Pancreatic Masses: A Prospective Crossover Study Comparing Standard Biopsy Needles
Authors: Igarashi Ryo , Irisawa Atsushi , Bhutani Manoop S. , Cazacu Irina M. , Shibukawa Goro , Sato Ai , Yamabe Akane , Maki Takumi , Yoshida Yoshitsugu , Yamamoto Shogo , Ikeda Tsunehiko , Hojo Hiroshi
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives. Recently, a 21G Menghini-type needle for EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (EUS-FNAB) has been developed. The stylet of the EUS Sonopsy CY™ remains inside the needle during aspiration. Therefore, it is expected to obtain higher-quality histological core specimens without crushing the material or blood contamination. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and diagnostic accuracy of EUS-FNAB of solid pancreatic masses with this new biopsy needle. Methods. A total of 30 patients with solid pancreatic masses who underwent EUS-FNAB with two different types of needles, EUS Sonopsy™ and ProCore™, were included in a prospective, randomized, controlled, crossover study. All the pancreatic masses were punctured with the two needles and were randomized regarding the order of the needle to be used. The primary outcome was to compare the diagnostic accuracy and the rates of tissue acquisition of the two needles. Results. The tissue acquisition rate was not significantly different between the EUS Sonopsy CY™ needle and the ProCore™ needle (78.6% vs. 82.1%, P=1.00). The histological diagnostic accuracy was also similar between the two needles (73% vs. 80%, P=.63). There was also no difference regarding the accuracy of cytology alone and the combination of both histological and cytological assessments between the EUS Sonopsy CY™ needle and the ProCore™ needle (90% vs. 87%, P=1.00 and 90% vs. 90%, P=1.00, respectively). Conclusions. EUS Sonopsy CY™ is a reliable device for EUS-FNAB of solid pancreatic masses.
Evaluating the Effect of Modelling Errors in Load Identification Using Classical Identification Methods
Authors: Vigsø Michael , Brincker Rune , Georgakis Christos
Published: October 2019

Load identification, or input identification as the more general term, is a field of study that requires a wide set of disciplines, which suffers from uncertainties caused by the challenges within each discipline. When making load identification, several different approaches exist. For all (or at least most) methods, however, some sort of system model is required. This model may be simple or complex, depending on the system at hand. Typically, if the identification process is vibration fed, the system model will be created from modal parameters. These parameters, however, are often subject to uncertainty and thus may be considered as stochastic variables. In this paper, the root causes of uncertainty for load identification are demonstrated using classical identification techniques. From a numerical perspective, uncertainty is quantified through Monte Carlo simulations. Two results are outlined: one where the identification process is completely blindfolded in its most naive form, and one where the spatial distribution of the load is predefined. In general, it is found that fixing the spatial distribution of the load can compensate for truncation errors in the modal parameters.
Rathke’s Cleft Cyst Apoplexy in Two Teenage Sisters
Authors: Martinez Santos Jaime , Hannay Madison , Olar Adriana , Eskandari Ramin
Published: October 2019

Rathke’s cleft cysts (RCC) are sellar-suprasellar cysts that are usually discovered incidentally given their indolent clinical course. When symptoms do arise, the most common clinical presentation is headache, visual field deficits due to visual pathway compression, diplopia due to cavernous sinus compression, chemical meningitis due to spillage of the cyst contents, endocrine dysfunction, and very rarely apoplexy. We present 2 cases of RCC in sisters who developed a sudden onset of symptoms in a manner similar to pituitary apoplexy. Interestingly, one of them had a very unusual presentation with seizure. We hypothesize that acute symptoms occur due to aggressive intracystic overproduction of mucopolysaccharides (with or without hemorrhage) and a resulting compressive syndrome or local irritation of surrounding structures by spillage of the cyst contents. RCC can be encountered incidentally in family members or may have a familiar predisposition. Since both sisters presented here developed apoplexy symptoms, we propose a more frequent follow-up with sequential imaging in patients with a family history of RCC. Transsphenoidal surgery with evacuation of the cyst contents is the treatment modality of choice, with excellent outcomes.
Influence of Taxanes on Treatment Sequence in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lorenzen Sylvie , Stahl Michael , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Al-Batran Salah-Eddin , Lordick Florian
Published: October 2019

Background: Adenocarcinoma of the stomach and esophagogastric junction (EGJ) remains a tumor entity with a poor prognosis. While meaningful advances have been made in the treatment of other solid tumors in the past years, numerous phase III studies in gastric cancer have had negative outcomes. Successes of targeted therapies so far include the ­introduction of trastuzumab in the first-line treatment of HER2-positive gastric cancer, and second-line anti-angiogenic treatment with the anti-VEGF-2 receptor antibody ramucirumab. Taxanes have become established in the perioperative setting and in second-line treatment and have set new standards. However, evidence for improved overall survival in the first-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer with taxanes is not convincing. Methodology: Expert consensus discussion on the scientific and clinical evidence for sequential systemic treatment for advanced gastric and EGJ cancer, taking into account data clinical outcomes from randomized controlled phase II and phase III trials. Summary: In first-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer, taxanes in combination with a platinum- and 5-fluorouracil-based regimen are generally not recommended because they lack a survival benefit and confer high toxicity. However, taxanes in first-line can be a treatment option for patients presenting with high tumor burden and strong pressure to achieve remission. Since the publication of several positive studies in second- and third-line therapy, sequential therapy is playing an increasingly important role in metastatic gastric and EGJ cancer. Key Message: Standard of care for the first-line treatment of gastric cancer is a platinum-fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy doublet combination. The standard of care after failure of platinum-based first-line therapy is ramucirumab in combination with paclitaxel. Data supporting this combination after previous taxane therapy are not yet available.
Increased Carbon Monoxide Washout Rates in Newborn Infants
Authors: Stevenson David K. , Wong Ronald J. , Ostrander Clint R. , Maric Ivana , Vreman Hendrik J. , Cohen Ronald S.
Published: October 2019

Background: Endogenous carbon monoxide (CO) production is primarily due to heme degradation, which also results in the equimolar production of bilirubin. Thus, estimates of total body CO production can serve as indices of total body bilirubin formation. The elimination rate of CO from a person’s body (CO washout rate) after exposure to an elevated ambient CO concentration is determined by a variety of factors, and is very different between babies and adults. Objective: We determined CO washout rates for babies using a simplified technique to measure total body CO excretion rates (VeCO). Methods: Using a simplified technique, we measured the times to reach an approximate steady state after a change in ambient CO concentration (decay time constant) and CO washout rates in normal newborn infants using non-linear least squares curve fitting. Results: We found a mean CO washout time of 18.7 ± 4.2 min and a CO equilibration (decay time) constant of 0.12 ± 0.04/min (0.08–0.21) for newborn infants. Conclusions: We confirm that CO washout rates for babies are much faster than those for adults. Therefore, measurements of carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) or end-tidal CO (ETCO), corrected for ambient CO, (COHbc and ETCOc, respectively) can be used as surrogates for VeCO and can provide accurate estimates of endogenous CO (VCO) and bilirubin production rates under normal environmental conditions. Such measurements can be used to identify infants with severe hyperbilirubinemia due to hemolysis and thus at high risk for bilirubin neurotoxicity.
Perspectivas da integração regional laboral no Mercosul ante os reveses na proteção ao trabalho digno
Authors: Martins Juliane Caravieri
Published: October 2019

A integração regional no MERCOSUL não pode mais se limitar a questões comerciais, devendo incluir temas laborais no intuito de reduzir as assimetrias do desenvolvimento econômico. O objetivo desta pesquisa é demonstrar que o retorno da direita conservadora em países mercosulistas está impulsionando o desmonte dos direitos laborais, impossibilitando a continuidade da agenda social no bloco que foi impulsionada pelo regionalismo pós-liberal. São complexos os fatores que envolvem a questão do trabalho assalariado na América Latina, sendo necessário o “transbordamento” do desenvolvimento econômico para as áreas sociais, principalmente envolvendo o labor humano e a migração de trabalhadores. Se o MERCOSUL não priorizar as relações de trabalho, o projeto integracionista não se efetivará em sua plenitude, podendo esvanecer nas próximas décadas.
Chronic Elevation of Endothelin-1 Alone May Not Be Sufficient to Impair Endothelium-Dependent Relaxation
Authors: Grunewald Zachary I. , Jurrissen Thomas J. , Woodford Makenzie L. , Ramirez-Perez Francisco I. , Park Lauren K. , Pettit-Mee Ryan , Ghiarone Thaysa , Brown Scott M. , Morales-Quinones Mariana , Ball James R. , Staveley-O’Carroll Kevin F. , Aroor Annayya R. , Fadel Paul J. , Paradis Pierre , Schiffrin Ernesto L. , Bender Shawn B. , Martinez-Lemus Luis A. , Padilla Jaume
Published: October 2019

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a powerful vasoconstrictor peptide considered to be causally implicated in hypertension and the development of cardiovascular disease. Increased ET-1 is commonly associated with reduced NO bioavailability and impaired vascular function; however, whether chronic elevation of ET-1 directly impairs endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) remains elusive. Herein, we report that (1) prolonged ET-1 exposure (ie, 48 hours) of naive mouse aortas or cultured endothelial cells did not impair EDR or reduce eNOS (endothelial NO synthase) activity, respectively (
P
>0.05); (2) mice with endothelial cell–specific ET-1 overexpression did not exhibit impaired EDR or reduced eNOS activity (
P
>0.05); (3) chronic (8 weeks) pharmacological blockade of ET-1 receptors in obese/hyperlipidemic mice did not improve aortic EDR or increase eNOS activity (
P
>0.05); and (4) vascular and plasma ET-1 did not inversely correlate with EDR in resistance arteries isolated from human subjects with a wide range of ET-1 levels (r=0.0037 and r=−0.1258, respectively). Furthermore, we report that prolonged ET-1 exposure downregulated vascular UCP-1 (uncoupling protein-1;
P
<0.05), which may contribute to the preservation of EDR in conditions characterized by hyperendothelinemia. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that chronic elevation of ET-1 alone may not be sufficient to impair EDR.
Impact of Immigration on Body Mass Index and Blood Pressure Among Adolescent Males and Females
Authors: Hamiel Uri , Pinhas-Hamiel Orit , Vivante Asaf , Bendor Cole , Bardugo Aya , Afek Arnon , Beer Zivan , Derazne Estela , Tzur Dorit , Behar Doron , Itzhak Avi , Skorecki Karl , Tirosh Amir , Grossman Ehud , Twig Gilad
Published: October 2019

Immigration from one cultural milieu to another has been associated with a greater risk for incident cardio-metabolic morbidity among adults. In this nationwide, population-based, cross-sectional study of data recorded from 1992 to 2016, we assessed the association between body mass index and blood pressure levels among adolescent immigrants, aged 16 to 19 years, of Ethiopian origin, and their secular trend of overweight and obesity. Adolescents of Ethiopian origin were classified as Israeli-born (n=16 153) or immigrants (N=23 487), with stratification by age at immigration. Adolescents whose fathers were at least 3 generations in Israel (n=277 789) served as a comparative group. Hypertensive-range blood pressure values adjusted for age, sex, and height served as outcome. Among adolescents of Ethiopian origin, overweight and obesity (body mass index ≥85th percentile), increased by 2.5 and 4-fold in males and females, respectively, during the study period, compared with a 1.5-fold increase among native Israeli-born males and females. The odds for hypertensive-range measurements increased with the length of residence in Israel: 7.3%, 10.6%, and 14.4% among males who immigrated at ages 12 to 19, 6 to 11.9, and 0 to 5.9 years, respectively; and 11.5%, 16.7%, and 19.3%, respectively, among females. Israeli-born Ethiopians had a significantly higher risk for hypertensive-range measurements at any body mass index level compared with native Israeli-born examinees, after adjusting for sociodemographic factors and health status. In conclusion, among Ethiopian Israeli adolescents, abnormal blood pressure correlates directly with the time-lapse since immigration. Immigrant populations require targeted surveillance and appropriate intervention.
Impact of the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics Guideline on Hypertension Prevalence Compared With the Fourth Report in an International Cohort
Authors: Yang Liu , Kelishadi Roya , Hong Young Mi , Khadilkar Anuradha , Nawarycz Tadeusz , Krzywińska-Wiewiorowska Małgorzata , Aounallah-Skhiri Hajer , Motlagh Mohammad Esmaeil , Kim Hae Soon , Khadilkar Vaman , Krzyżaniak Alicja , Ben Romdhane Habiba , Heshmat Ramin , Chiplonkar Shashi , Stawińska-Witoszyńska Barbara , El Ati Jalila , Qorbani Mostafa , Kajale Neha , Traissac Pierre , Ostrowska-Nawarycz Lidia , Ardalan Gelayol , Ekbote Veena , Zhao Min , Heiland Emerald G. , Liang Yajun , Xi Bo
Published: October 2019

In 2017, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated the clinical practice guideline for high blood pressure (BP) in the pediatric population. In this study, we compared the difference in prevalence of elevated and hypertensive BP values defined by the 2017 AAP guideline and the 2004 Fourth Report and estimated the cardiovascular risk associated with the reclassification of BP status defined by the AAP guideline. A total of 47 200 children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years from 6 countries (China, India, Iran, Korea, Poland, and Tunisia) were included in this study. Elevated BP and hypertension were defined according to 2 guidelines. In addition, 1606 children from China, Iran, and Korea who were reclassified upward by the AAP guideline compared with the Fourth Report and for whom laboratory data were available were 1:1 matched with children from the same countries who were normotensive by both guidelines. Compared with the Fourth Report, the prevalence of elevated BP defined by the AAP guideline was lower (14.9% versus 8.6%), whereas the prevalence of stages 1 and 2 hypertension was higher (stage 1, 6.6% versus 14.5%; stage 2, 0.4% versus 1.7%). Additionally, comparison of laboratory data in the case-control study showed that children who were reclassified upward were more likely to have adverse lipid profiles and high fasting blood glucose compared with normotensive children. In conclusion, the prevalence of elevated BP and hypertension varied significantly between both guidelines. Applying the new AAP guideline could identify more children with hypertension who are at increased cardiovascular risk.
Euryhalinema mangrovii gen. nov., sp. nov. and Leptoelongatus litoralis gen. nov., sp. nov. (Leptolyngbyaceae) isolated from an Indian mangrove forest

Authors: CHAKRABORTY SANDEEP , MARUTHANAYAGAM VEERABADHRAN , ACHARI ANUSHREE , PRAMANIK ARNAB , JAISANKAR PARASURAMAN , MUKHERJEE JOYDEEP
Published: October 2019

Molecular data based revision of Leptolyngbya, the largest polyphyletic genus of the family Leptolyngbyaceae (Synechococcales) is imperative. Polyphasic approach to the taxonomic analysis of two (AP9F and AP25) cyanobacteria, tentatively designated positions in the “LPP-group” is described. Cell shapes of AP9F and AP25 were highly elongated whereas the cells of the reference strains (Leptolyngbya boryana and Nodosilinea nodulosa) were occasionally elongated to isodiametrical. Terminal cells of AP9F and AP25 appeared as flattened corners (not rounded), which was different from other Leptolyngbyaceae members. 16S rRNA gene sequences of AP9F (1366 bp) and AP25 (1408 bp) showed 95% and 92% similarities respectively with the non-redundant nucleotide sequences of their closest relatives of the Leptolyngbya genus. Test strains were located in the phylogenetic tree in a clade different from the ones containing the type species. A single operon having both tRNAile and tRNAala genes were present in the ITS regions of AP9F and AP25 compared to two operons in the ITS region of the genera Leptolyngbya and Nodosilinea: one having both tRNAile and tRNAala genes and another lacking both the genes. The secondary structures of the traditionally conservative D-stem region as well as the Box B helix and V3 regions of the ITS operons significantly varied between the test strains and also when compared with the corresponding sequences of L. boryana and N. nodulosa. Molecular phylogenetic and morphological data suggested AP9F and AP25 to be monophyletic taxa for which the names Euryhalinema mangrovii gen. nov., sp. nov. and Leptoelongatus litoralis gen. nov., sp. nov. are proposed respectively.
Synonymization of the monotypic genus Nycticalanthus in Spiranthera (Rutaceae: Galipeinae)

Authors: BRITO LILIAN DE ANDRADE , DIAS PEDRO , PIRANI JOSÉ RUBENS
Published: October 2019

The neotropical genus Nycticalanthus Ducke (1932: 341) belongs to Rutaceae and was described by Ducke in 1932. It was based on a single species (N. speciosus Ducke [1932: 341]) with no further species described subsequently. Therefore, it still is a monotypic genus. Nycticalanthus was morphologically characterized by its shrubby to arborescent habit, with alternate, trifoliate leaves; inflorescences in terminal panicles with long pedunculated cymes; pentamerous flowers with tubular calyx, petals free and unequal to each other, five free, ascending stamens with oblong-linear anthers, disk urceolate with crenate-undulate margin, stigma shortly capitate, ovary divided in five locules with two ovules in each locule and gynophore obconic-elongated; fruit schizocarp, composed by two or three follicles, each bearing a single oblong seed (Ducke 1932).
The Reduviidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) of Alabama, with a morphological key to species
Authors: CLEM C.SCOTT , SWANSON DANIEL R. , RAY CHARLES H.
Published: October 2019

Alabama is one of the most speciose states in the United States, yet many common groups of organisms, including assassin bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae), have yet to be fully documented. The purpose of this manuscript is to identify all known assassin bug species occurring in the state using literature records and specimens from natural history collections, most notably the Auburn University Museum of Natural History Entomology Collection, to provide new state records, a checklist, and a morphological species key of the Alabama Reduviidae. All total, 61 species within 36 genera and 10 subfamilies are reported from Alabama. Additionally, 40 new state literature records are documented: 34 from Alabama and six from other states.
A new species of Mesochila Rivalier, 1969 (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) from the Brazilian Caatinga
Authors: ROZA ANDRÉ SILVA , MERMUDES JOSÉ RICARDO MIRAS
Published: October 2019

Here we describe a new species, Mesochila (Mesochila) moraveci sp. nov. from Piauí, Brazil, the second of the genus to occur in the Caatinga. This new species shares the shape of the aedeagus and the structure of the internal sac with M. (M.) brevipennis, M. (M.) drechseli and M. (M.) prepusula, but can be easily distinguished by the presence of a whitish elytral humeral band. We provide a key to M. (M.) brevipennis species-complex as well as illustrations for the diagnostic characters for these species.
New data on Parasyrisca (Araneae: Gnaphosidae) from Mongolia
Authors: MARUSIK YURI M. , FOMICHEV ALEXANDER A. , OMELKO MIKHAIL M.
Published: October 2019

Three new species of Parasyrisca Schenkel, 1963 belonging to the potanini-group are described from Western Mongolia: P. platnicki sp. n., P. polchaninovae sp. n. and P. szinetari sp. n. Each species description is based on both sexes. Both the male and female of P. platnicki sp. n. possess some copulatory organ characters unknown in other species of the genus. The previously unknown female and the poorly known male of P. khubsugul Ovtsharenko, Platnick et Marusik, 1995 are described and redescribed respectively, the descriptions being based on the specimens found in Arkhangai and Bayankhongor Aimags. The structures of copulatory organs in Parasyrsca potanini-group are briefly discussed.
Contribution to the tribe Pentoffiini (Cicadellidae: Evacanthinae) with descriptions of two new species and the male of Evanirvana aurea Hill, 1973
Authors: GONÇALVES CLAYTON C. , DIETRICH CHRISTOPHER H. , TAKIYA DANIELA M.
Published: October 2019

Pentoffiini is a small tribe of Neotropical leafhoppers that includes two genera: Evanirvana Hill, 1973 with only one species, E. aurea, previously known only from females and Pentoffia Kramer, 1964 with seven species. Here, we describe the male of E. aurea, a new species of Evanirvana, E. tambopata sp. nov., from Peru, and a new species of Pentoffia, P. santosi sp. nov., from Peru. A revised diagnosis for Evanirvana and key to all known species of Pentoffiini are provided.
First records of the genera Neocylloepus and Pilielmis (Coleoptera: Elmidae: Elminae) from Venezuela, with the description of Pilielmis shepardi sp. nov.
Authors: POLIZEI THIAGO T. S. , BARCLAY MAXWELL V. L.
Published: October 2019

Neocylloepus Brown, 1970 and Pilielmis Hinton, 1971 are Neotropical genera of riffle beetles, mainly distributed in Central America and the north of South America. These genera are here reported for the first time from Venezuela, and a new species, Pilielmis shepardi sp. nov. is described and illustrated. The type material is housed in Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil (MZSP), Natural History Museum, London, UK (BMNH), Museo del Instituto de Zoología Agrícola, Maracay, Venezuela (MIZA), Michael A. Ivie Collection, Bozeman, Montana, USA (MAIC), and National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC, USA (USNM).
The problem of inequality in Australia’s early childhood education and care sector: A policy frame analysis
Authors: Molla Tebeje , Nolan Andrea
Published: October 2019

A policy problem is a discursive construction, and the way in which the problem is framed determines both the nature of the policy responses and the possibility of resolving it. In this paper, drawing on critical frame analysis, we examined three major equity policies in the Australian early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector. In mapping out framing and reasoning devices of the policies, our analytical interest is to highlight the representation of inequality as a problem and unmask underlying assumptions of the equity responses. The findings show that disadvantage in Australia’s ECEC sector has been framed as a lack of access, limited navigational capacity and cultural exclusion; and the framings are underpinned by economic, educational and social rationales. The analysis also reveals problematic categories, issue-omissions and conceptual shifts within the texts. The paper draws practical implications of the frame contradictions and silences.
Design of fractional order proportional integral controller using stability and robustness criteria in time delay system
Authors: Chen SiYi , Huang HuiXian
Published: October 2019

In this paper, a tuning procedure of the parameters of fractional order proportional integral controller is presented for time delay system with arbitrary order. On the basis of obtaining stable solution space by utilizing some stability-domain boundaries which include real-root boundary and σ-stability boundary, the optimal solution can be achieved by applying specific frequency-domain specifications which include gain crossing frequency, phase margin, and robustness constraint. Using the same synthesis by traversing phase angle and phase margin in a given interval, the complete solution space of gain crossing frequency can be obtained and visualized, which is equivalent to demonstrate the complete solution space of optimal parameters of fractional order proportional integral controllers. As a comparison, the tuning procedure of the parameters of integral order proportional integral derivative controller is also discussed. At last, the proposed algorithm is validated by numerical simulation and experimental illustrations. The results show the robustness and advantage of the proposed fractional order proportional integral controller over other controllers.
Oral Implants: The Paradigm Shift in Restorative Dentistry
Authors: Lang N.P.
Published: October 2019

The discovery of the phenomenon “osseointegration,” or functional ankylosis, has led to the development of oral implants with high clinical performance. Consequently, the placement of titanium implants has changed the paradigms of restorative dentistry. Implants are used to prevent placing reconstructions anchored on natural teeth when these are vital and intact. Furthermore, implants are suitable to improve subjective chewing function and to replace missing and strategically important abutments. The osseointegration process is characterized by a predictable sequence of healing events that encompass the formation of woven bone, parallel fibers, and lamellar bone and result in fully functional bone that will remodel throughout life. While the osseointegration facilitates the use of implants as prosthetic abutments, it has to be kept in mind that the peri-implant soft tissue may be subject to biological complications. This, in turn, may result in an infectious process that will jeopardize the osseointegration. Consequently, the monitoring of the peri-implant tissues is an important aspect, and early intervention in situations with peri-implant mucositis is mandatory for the prevention of peri-implantitis. Hence, it is evident that oral implants need lifelong maintenance care if their longevity is to be assured.
“Let no one delude you”: The apostle as moralist in the letter to Colossians
Authors: Rosell Tarris
Published: October 2019

The letter to Colossian Christians depicts the apostle as moralist, a teacher of what is good and right, while warning against immorality as he understands it. Some in Colossae have become disoriented or even deluded by teachings contrary to those of the apostles, prompting a moralistic response from Paul. The letter prompts ethics reflection for a contemporary Christian context of potential moral disorientation and delusion on issues such as honesty in government, immigration, and ownership of handguns. Discernment of moral matters is enhanced by tools such as Rosell’s “FARM Box” and a typology of moral situations. Some matters raised by Paul give reason to question the apostle’s moral teachings, such as those pertaining to wives and slaves. Mostly, his letter to Colossians makes good moral sense, arguably with universal application of rules such as, “Above all . . . walk in love.”
Subversive song: Imagining Colossians 1:15–20 as a social protest hymn in the context of Roman empire
Authors: Medley Mark S.
Published: October 2019

A connection exists between the Christological hymn of praise and protest in Col 1:15–20 and popular protest music. The connection is the lyrical ability to transform political and socio-cultural realities, as well as to empower and mobilize protest and resistance against imperial power and coercive structures of domination. A special focus is on Billie Holiday’s song, “Strange Fruit,” a contemporary model of a protest song in comparison to Col 1:15–20. In the comparison, the Colossians hymn draws upon the political ideology and imagery of the Roman Empire in the form of a counter-discourse, as was Jewish resistance poetry, in ways analogous to how Holiday’s “Strange Fruit” evokes the imagery of white racial terror for the sake of raising political consciousness.
Love is the appropriate response: Colossians 3:12–17
Authors: Carter Terrell
Published: October 2019

Using the image of clothing, Paul highlights various practices and ethical actions for the community of faith in Colossae to demonstrate their holiness before God and the world. The chief behavior encouraged for the Colossians, and echoed in other letters of Paul, is the call to love.
Which Matters More for Medication Adherence Among Disabled People in Shanghai, China: Family Support or Primary Health Care?
Authors: Huang Jiaoling , Jiang Zhiyun , Zhang Tao , Wang Luan , Chu Yiming , Shen Mei , Liang Hong , Liu Shanshan , Zhang Yimin , Liu Chengjun
Published: October 2019

Most disabled people have poor health status. They often have multiple diseases requiring continual medication. This study aimed to explore the factors associated with medication adherence among disabled people, with a particular focus on the factors associated with family and primary health care support. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 226 disabled individuals. The analysis was performed using an ordered logistic regression model, including 4 categories of predictor variables. We found that the community health service center played a positive role in improving medication adherence, whereas the role played by the participant’s family was more complicated. Specifically, those obtaining a brochure were more likely to have higher medication adherence (odds ratio [OR] = 2.732, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.349-5.532). Compared with those who were married, widowed participants (OR = 0.207, 95% CI = 0.069-0.620) and divorced participants (OR = 0.330, 95% CI = 0.057-1.914) had lower odds of having greater adherence, whereas the odds of having greater adherence for single participants were 1.679 times the same odds for married participants (OR = 1.679, 95% CI = 0.668-4.224). The odds of having greater medication adherence for participants receiving help with prescriptions from a family member were almost 60% lower than these odds for those who did not receive this kind of help (OR = 0.460, 95% CI = 0.216-0.979). Thus, the role played by participants’ family members was both protective and damaging, whereas the role of the community health service center was clearer. These findings merit further exploration.