bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibiting BRAF Oncogene–Mediated Radioresistance Effectively Radiosensitizes BRAFV600E-Mutant Thyroid Cancer Cells by Constraining DNA Double-Strand Break Repair
Authors: Robb Ryan , Yang Linlin , Shen Changxian , Wolfe Adam R. , Webb Amy , Zhang Xiaoli , Vedaie Marall , Saji Motoyasu , Jhiang Sissy , Ringel Matthew D. , Williams Terence M.
Published: May 2019

Purpose:

Activating BRAF mutations, most commonly BRAFV600E, are a major oncogenic driver of many cancers. We explored whether BRAFV600E promotes radiation resistance and whether selectively targeting BRAFV600E with a BRAF inhibitor (vemurafenib, BRAFi) sensitizes BRAFV600E thyroid cancer cells to radiotherapy.

Experimental Design:

Immunoblotting, neutral comet, immunocytochemistry, functional reporter, and clonogenic assays were used to analyze the outcome and molecular characteristics following radiotherapy with or without BRAFV600E or vemurafenib in thyroid cancer cells.

Results:

BRAFV600E thyroid cancer cell lines were associated with resistance to ionizing radiation (IR), and expression of BRAFV600E into wild-type BRAF thyroid cancer cells led to IR resistance. BRAFi inhibited ERK signaling in BRAFV600E mutants, but not BRAF wild-type thyroid cancer cell lines. BRAFi selectively radiosensitized and delayed resolution of IR-induced γH2AX nuclear foci in BRAFV600E cells. Moreover, BRAFi impaired global DNA repair and altered the resolution of 53BP1 and RAD51 nuclear foci in BRAFV600E cells following IR. BRAFV600E mutants displayed enhanced nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) repair activity, which was abolished by BRAFi. Intriguingly, BRAFV600E mutation led to upregulation of XLF, a component of NHEJ, which was prevented by BRAFi. Importantly, BRAFi in combination with radiotherapy resulted in marked and sustained tumor regression of BRAFV600E thyroid tumor xenografts.

Conclusions:

BRAFV600E mutation promotes NHEJ activity leading to radioresistance and BRAFi selectively radiosensitizes BRAFV600E thyroid cancer cells through inhibiting NHEJ. Our findings suggest that combining BRAFi and radiation may improve the therapeutic outcome of patients with BRAFV600E-mutant thyroid cancer.
ФАКТОРИ, ЩО ВПЛИВАЮТЬ НА СТУДЕНТСЬКУ УСПІШНІСТЬ ВИВЧЕННЯ ТЕОРЕТИЧНОЇ ДИСЦИПЛІНИ
Authors: Dubyna S. O. , Khapchenkova D. S. , Bondarenko S. V.
Published: May 2019

Мета роботи – визначити фактори, що впливають на успішність студентів-медиків.

Основна частина. Навчання у вищому навчальному закладі, з одного боку, є необхідністю сучасності, з іншого – складним етапом життя молоді. Студенту перших курсів необхідно пристосуватися до нових умов існування, динаміки навчання, змінити спосіб життя та праці, свою поведінку. Великий об’єм нової інформації, фізичні та психологічні труднощі, з якими стикається студент, призводять до постійного напруження, відчуття тривоги та, як наслідок, стану хронічного стресу. Сучасна освітня система безперервно змінюється, що веде за собою необхідність з боку студента постійно адаптуватися до нововведень. Студентський вік характеризується різноманіттям емоцій, відчуттів та засобів їх прояву. Тому на сучасному етапі актуальним залишається вивчення проблеми стресу в навчальній діяльності студентів.

У статті наведені дані анонімного опитування 163 студентів 1–2 курсів медичного університету щодо причин незадовільної успішності з вивчення теоретичної дисципліни “Анатомія людини”. Респондентам було запропоновано самостійно визначити причини неадекватного засвоєння матеріалу з дисципліни на практичних заняттях та лекціях.

Висновок. Отримані результати свідчать про стан хронічного напруження студентів, перебування в стані навчального стресу за рахунок недосконалості навчальної системи, великого об’єму інформації, загострення хронічних захворювань, психологічних проблем у родині та колективі.
МУЗЕЇ ТЕРНОПІЛЬСЬКОГО ДЕРЖАВНОГО МЕДИЧНОГО УНІВЕРСИТЕТУ ІМЕНІ І. Я. ГОРБАЧЕВСЬКОГО – БАГАТСТВО ІСТОРИЧНОЇ СПАДЩИНИ НАВЧАЛЬНОГО ЗАКЛАДУ
Authors: Fedoniuk L. Ya. , Palamarchiuk A. I. , Fajfura V. V. , Lototska V. V. , Bondarenko Ju. I. , Palasiuk B. O.
Published: May 2019

Мета роботи – висвітлити багатогранність історичної спадщини Тернопільського державного медичного університету імені І. Я. Горбачевського.

Основна частина. На сьогодні у ДВНЗ “Тернопільський державний медичний університет імені і. Я. Горбачевського МОЗ України” функціонують як музеї історичного, так і навчального профілю, зокрема музей історії Тернопільського державного медичного університету імені І. Я. Горбачевського, історичний музей-садиба академіка І. Я. Горбачевського, музей члена-кореспондента НАМН України, заслуженого діяча науки і техніки України, доктора медичних наук, професора Леоніда Якимовича Ковальчука [4]. Музеї ТДМУ мають за мету ознайомити відвідувачів університету з підґрунтям успіхів і основними досягненнями навчального закладу впродовж свого багаторічного функціонування, донести до кожного історію та традиції навчального закладу, розкрити долі та справи випускників, показати творчий шлях і досягнення вчених, наукову та суспільну діяльність студентів і викликати гордість за свій навчальний заклад.

Висновок. Історичні музеї ТДМУ є місцем пізнання і передачі знань, осередком освіти й виховання, вони є невичерпною скарбницею людської пам’яті, що дозволяють доторкнутися душею до живої історії.
РОЛЬ РОДИНИ Й СІМЕЙНОГО ВИХОВАННЯ В ОРГАНІЗАЦІЇ ОСВІТНЬОГО ПРОЦЕСУ НІМЕЧЧИНИ І ФРАНЦІЇ: ІСТОРІЯ ТА ДОСВІД
Authors: Fedchyshyn N. O. , Permyakova O. H.
Published: May 2019

Мета роботи – з’ясувати вплив родини й сімейного виховання на навчально-виховний процес у Німеччині та Франції в істо­ричному аспекті.

Основна частина. Інноваційні технології не можуть замінити виховання людини, і важливість родини поступово зростає: усвідомлюється роль виховання підростаючого покоління (формування громадянина). Вивчення історичного досвіду Німеччини та Франції щодо сімейного виховання, у виховному процесі яких втілено передові ідеї європейської педагогічної думки і які займають лідерські позиції у навчально-виховному процесі, є сьогодні актуальним. З педагогічної точки зору на основні принципи і засади теорії шкільної організації, педагогічні спільноти Німеччини та Франції констатували першочергове право родини на виховання дитини.

Висновки. Гербартіанство забезпечило у Німеччині всі належні передумови для освітньої політики й практики, де поєднані: сімейне виховання, креативне навчання, належний відпочинок, релігійне осмислення сенсу життя. У Франції для підтримки сімей та всіх, хто займається вихованням й освітою дітей, створені асоціації сімейної освіти, які підтримуються державою та місцевими органами влади, благодійними спільнотами й чисельними партнерами.
ДОСВІД ПРОВЕДЕННЯ І ТУРУ ОЛІМПІАДИ З ЕНДОКРИНОЛОГІЇ В ІВАНО-ФРАНКІВСЬКОМУ НАЦІОНАЛЬНОМУ МЕДИЧНОМУ УНІВЕРСИТЕТІ
Authors: Vatseba T. S.
Published: May 2019

Мета роботи – підвищення мотивації студентів до участі в наукових змаганнях та представлення власного досвіду проведення І туру олімпіади з ендокринології в ІФНМУ.

Основна частина. Проведено І тур олімпіади з ендокринології в ІФНМУ. Через інформаційний сайт університету повідомлено про оголошення конкурсу серед учасників. Створена компетентна комісія з професорсько-викладацького складу кафедри. Визна­чена структура конкурсу: відповіді на теоретичні питання (однакові для всіх учасників), комп’ютерний тестовий контроль підвищеної складності “Невідкладні стани в ендокринології”, практичні навики біля пацієнтів. Кожним членом комісії проведене незалежне оцінювання рівня піготовки учасників відбіркового туру. Переможцями визначені студенти з отриманими максимальними балами. Здобуте призове ІІ місце в ІІ турі олімпіади з ендокринології одного з переможців І відбіркового туру – винагорода за працю для студентів та гордість для університету.

Висновок. Олімпіада – механізм формування кадрового потенціалу в різних сферах людської діяльності. Проведення І туру олімпіади в ІФНМУ з ендокринології в рівнозначних умовах для учасників за описаною структурою – важливий досвід та шлях до вдосконалення конкурсних змагань.
uso do canabidiol (CBD) no tratamento da doença de Parkinson e suas comorbidades
Authors: Santos Rafael G. dos , Hallak Jaime E. C. , Crippa José Alexandre S.
Published: May 2019

Fundamento: A doença de Parkinson (DP) é um transtorno neurodegenerativo crônico caracterizado por sintomas motores (bradicinesia, tremores, rigidez) e não motores (transtornos psicóticos, do humor e do sono). Os tratamentos farmacológicos disponíveis não são eficazes para uma parcela significativa dos pacientes. Pesquisas recentes sugerem que o fitocanabinóide canabidiol (CBD) poderia ser eficaz no tratamento de alguns sintomas da DP. Objetivos: Revisar os estudos pré-clínicos e clínicos dos efeitos do CBD nos sintomas da DP. Métodos: Revisão narrativa dos principais estudos básicos e clínicos sobre os efeitos do CBD nos sintomas da DP. Devido ao número pequeno de estudos clínicos, pesquisas com outros canabinóides também foram incluídas. Resultados: No total, 15 artigos foram incluídos na revisão: 5 estudos pré-clínicos envolvendo a administração de CBD e 10 estudos com pacientes envolvendo a administração de diferentes canabinóides (maconha, nabilona, CBD). A maioria dos estudos básicos mostraram um efeito positivo do CBD em comportamentos ou alterações bioquímicas relacionadas à DP. Estudos observacionais e clínicos com uso de maconha fumada, extrato oral de maconha, nabilona (canabinóide sintético) e CBD sugerem que estes canabinóides podem reduzir sintomas motores (bradicinesia, tremores, rigidez) e não motores (transtornos psicóticos, do humor e do sono, qualidade de vida) da DP. Além disso, são substâncias bem toleradas e com poucos efeitos adversos significativos. Conclusão: Embora o CBD tenha demonstrado resultados favoráveis tanto em estudos pré-clínicos como em estudos clínicos, estas evidências ainda não são suficientes para indicar o uso deste canabinóide em pacientes com distúrbios do DP. Novos estudos controlados devem ser realizados com diferentes dosagens de CBD para replicar estes dados.
MicroRNA-615-5p Regulates Angiogenesis and Tissue Repair by Targeting AKT/eNOS (Protein Kinase B/Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase) Signaling in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Icli Basak , Wu Winona , Ozdemir Denizhan , Li Hao , Cheng Henry S. , Haemmig Stefan , Liu Xin , Giatsidis Giorgio , Avci Seyma Nazli , Lee Nathan , Guimaraes Raphael Boesch , Manica Andre , Marchini Julio F. , Rynning Stein Erik , Risnes Ivar , Hollan Ivana , Croce Kevin , Yang Xianbin , Orgill Dennis P. , Feinberg Mark W.
Published: May 2019

Objective—

In response to tissue injury, the appropriate progression of events in angiogenesis is controlled by a careful balance between pro and antiangiogenic factors. We aimed to identify and characterize microRNAs that regulate angiogenesis in response to tissue injury.

Approach and Results—

We show that in response to tissue injury, microRNA-615-5p (miR-615-5p) is rapidly induced and serves as an antiangiogenic microRNA by targeting endothelial cell VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)-AKT (protein kinase B)/eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) signaling in vitro and in vivo. MiR-615-5p expression is increased in wounds of diabetic db/db mice, in plasma of human subjects with acute coronary syndromes, and in plasma and skin of human subjects with diabetes mellitus. Ectopic expression of miR-615-5p markedly inhibited endothelial cell proliferation, migration, network tube formation in Matrigel, and the release of nitric oxide, whereas miR-615-5p neutralization had the opposite effects. Mechanistic studies using transcriptomic profiling, bioinformatics, 3′ untranslated region reporter and microribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation assays, and small interfering RNA dependency studies demonstrate that miR-615-5p inhibits the VEGF-AKT/eNOS signaling pathway in endothelial cells by targeting IGF2 (insulin-like growth factor 2) and RASSF2 (Ras-associating domain family member 2). Local delivery of miR-615-5p inhibitors, markedly increased angiogenesis, granulation tissue thickness, and wound closure rates in db/db mice, whereas miR-615-5p mimics impaired these effects. Systemic miR-615-5p neutralization improved skeletal muscle perfusion and angiogenesis after hindlimb ischemia in db/db mice. Finally, modulation of miR-615-5p expression dynamically regulated VEGF-induced AKT signaling and angiogenesis in human skin organoids as a model of tissue injury.

Conclusions—

These findings establish miR-615-5p as an inhibitor of VEGF-AKT/eNOS–mediated endothelial cell angiogenic responses and that manipulating miR-615-5p expression could provide a new target for angiogenic therapy in response to tissue injury.

Visual Overview—

An online visual overview is available for this article.
Macrophage Smad3 Protects the Infarcted Heart, Stimulating Phagocytosis and Regulating Inflammation
Authors: Chen Bijun , Huang Shuaibo , Su Ya , Wu Yi-Jin , Hanna Anis , Brickshawana Adipong , Graff Jonathan , Frangogiannis Nikolaos G.
Published: May 2019

Rationale:

TGF (transforming growth factor)-β is critically involved in myocardial injury, repair, and fibrosis, activating both Smad (small mothers against decapentaplegic)-dependent and non-Smad pathways. The in vivo role of TGF-β signaling in regulation of macrophage function is poorly understood. We hypothesized that in the infarcted myocardium, activation of TGF-β/Smad signaling in macrophages may regulate repair and remodeling.

Objective:

To investigate the role of macrophage-specific TGF-β Smad3 signaling in a mouse model of myocardial infarction and to dissect the mechanisms mediating Smad-dependent modulation of macrophage function.

Methods and Results:

TGF-βs markedly activated Smad3 in macrophages, without affecting Smad-independent pathways. Phagocytosis rapidly and directly activated macrophage Smad3, in the absence of active TGF-β release. MyS3KO (myeloid cell–specific Smad3 knockout) mice had no baseline defects but exhibited increased late mortality and accentuated dilative postmyocardial infarction remodeling. Adverse outcome in infarcted MyS3KO mice was associated with perturbations in phagocytic activity, defective transition of macrophages to an anti-inflammatory phenotype, scar expansion, and accentuated apoptosis of border zone cardiomyocytes. In vitro, Smad3 null macrophages exhibited reduced expression of genes associated with eat-me signals, such as Mfge8 (milk fat globule-epidermal growth factor factor 8), and reduced capacity to produce the anti-inflammatory mediators IL (interleukin)-10 and TGF-β1, and the angiogenic growth factor VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor). Mfge8 partly rescued the phagocytic defect of Smad3 null macrophages, without affecting inflammatory activity. Impaired anti-inflammatory actions of Smad3 null macrophages were associated with marked attenuation of phagocytosis-induced PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) expression. MyS3KO mice had no significant alterations in microvascular density and interstitial fibrosis in remodeling myocardial segments.

Conclusions:

We demonstrate that Smad3 critically regulates function of infarct macrophages, by mediating acquisition of a phagocytic phenotype and by contributing to anti-inflammatory transition. Smad3-dependent actions in macrophages protect the infarcted heart from adverse remodeling.
Getting the Accent Right: Jerome in Tit. 3.9 in Isidore eccl. off. 2.11.4
Authors: Denecker Tim
Published: May 2019

This note identifies Jerome’s commentary on Paul’s Epistle to Titus 3:9 as a source for §4 of Isidore of Seville’s De ecclesiasticis officiis 2.11, i.e. the chapter De lectoribus, which forms an important document in the history of linguistic education and the historical (socio)linguistics of early 7th-century Visigothic Spain. This source identification provides the basis for a suggestion of textual criticism and for two more general observations.
Factor Structure of Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI) in a Norwegian Convenience Sample
Authors: Skogen Jens Christoffer , Nesvåg Sverre
Published: May 2019

Sense of time is a fundamental aspect of human psychology. The Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI) is a widely used questionnaire meant to measure fundamental experiential dimensions of time, such as past, present and future. The aim of this study was to establish model fit of a Norwegian extended version of the ZTPI. The study is based on a convenience sample of 713 individuals. Based on previous findings, we employed confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modelling to investigate different factor structures of ZTPI. The analyses were carried out using the WLSMV-estimation approach, and several fit indices was used as indicators of how well the data fitted the suggested factor structure. This first investigation of a Norwegian version of ZTPI did not find support for the original 56-item scale, the S-ZTPI version (64 items), nor an extended version that also incorporated the transcendental time perspective (74 items). In post-hoc analyses, we identified a model with 34 items and 7 factors that fitted the data adequately. Further studies should investigate the factor structure of ZTPI in a Norwegian context, and international studies should investigate how the transcendental time perspective relates to the rest of ZTPI.
Morphological and molecular systematic investigation of Laurencia karachiana sp. nov. (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) from Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: BIBI RABIA , CASSANO VALÉRIA , DA SILVA MEDEIROS ROSÂNGELA , RASHID SHAHNAZ , RASHEED MUNAWWER
Published: May 2019

Laurencia karachiana sp. nov. is described from the Karachi coast of Pakistan, based on rbcL and COI-5P genes sequences. The molecular analyses for both markers positioned L. karachiana within Laurencia sensu stricto and it possesses all vegetative and reproductive structures typical of the genus. Laurencia karachiana grouped with Laurencia sp. from Sri Lanka for both markers. The genetic divergence between these taxa for rbcL was only 0.27%, whereas for COI-5P was much higher, 2.7%. The latter is within ranges of interspecific divergence for Laurencia s.s. The discrepancy of divergence between these markers and the lack of description and illustrations of Laurencia sp. from Sri Lanka for comparison leave the identity of Laurencia sp. as an open question. The rbcL phylogeny resolved L. karachiana and Laurencia sp. as sister to a subclade formed by sequences of Laurencia pumila and L. pumila var. dehoopiensis from South Africa, diverging by 1.7–1.8%. This genetic divergence and also morphological differences observed support the recognition of L. karachiana as a novel species. Our finding shows that this complex from Pakistan requires major revision, because its diversity is likely underestimated.
A new species of Sonerila (Melastomataceae) from the Western Ghats of India
Authors: MURUGESAN MARUTHAKKUTTY , RAVICHANDRAN VELLINGIRI , MURUGAN CHIDAMBARAM
Published: May 2019

Sonerila coimbatorensis sp. nov. is described here. The new species is closely allied to S. gadgiliana Ratheesh & Sivad., by its acaulescent habit and the presence of a tuber, but differs in having smaller leaves (1.5–4.5 cm wide) with 3–5 nerves, sparsely glandular petiole, single inflorescence with 1–4 flowers, terete peduncle with 6–18 cm long, pedicel and hypanthium green, petals abaxially with a glabrous midrib and with acuminate apex, style 0.4 cm long and glabrous capsule.
A new species of Leptogaster Meigen (Diptera, Asilidae) from Turkey with egg and spermatheca structure
Authors: HASBENLİ ABDULLAH , CANDAN SELAMİ , ALPAY NESLİHAN
Published: May 2019

Leptogaster suleymani n. sp. from South East of Turkey is described. Drawings of the male genitalia and the female spermatheca of this new species and the morphologically similar L. fumipennis Loew are given. Also, scanning electron micrographs of the spermatheca and eggs of this new species compared with L. fumipennis are given.
Description of a new species of Heteroscorpion Birula, 1903 (Scorpiones, Heteroscorpionidae) from the Montagne des Français in extreme northern Madagascar
Authors: LOURENÇO WILSON R. , GOODMAN STEVEN M.
Published: May 2019

The endemic Malagasy genus Heteroscorpion Birula, 1903, of the family Heteroscorpionidae was monotypic for a century with H. opisthacanthoides (Kraepelin, 1896). Extensive field surveys conducted over the last 15 years in the different bioclimatic regions of Madagascar have resulted in the collection of numerous scorpions, including specimens belonging to the genus Heteroscorpion. These collections led to the description of three new species, H. goodmani Lourenço, 1996, H. magnus Lourenço & Goodman, 2002, and H. raselimanana Lourenço & Goodman, 2004. In this paper another species new to science is described from the extreme north of the island and is presumed to be locally endemic. With this taxon, the number of species in the genus Heteroscorpion is now five, and its distribution covers numerous zones of the island, including humid and dry forests. Aspects of the geographic distribution and ecology of the different species are also commented upon.
Trichomycterus pauciradiatus, a new catfish species from the upper rio Paraná basin, southeastern Brazil (Siluriformes: Trichomycteridae)
Authors: ALENCAR ALINE R. , COSTA WILSON J.E.M.
Published: May 2019

Trichomycterus pauciradiatus, new species, is described from the rio Paraná basin, southeastern Brazil. It differs from all other species of Trichomycterus by having four pelvic-fin rays. The new species is possibly closely related to T. reinhardti (Eigenmann, 1918), since both share a unique color pattern consisting of a yellow body with a broad dark brown stripe along the lateral midline.  The stripe is bordered dorsally by a longitudinal bright yellow zone lacking dark chromatophores.
The first discovery of fossil rhopalids (Heteroptera: Coreoidea) from Middle Jurassic of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: YAO YUNZHI , CAI WANZHI , REN DONG
Published: May 2019

Two new genera and two new species of fossil rhopalid, Miracorizus punctatus gen. & sp. nov. and Longiclavula calvata gen. & sp. nov., are described and illustrated. They were collected from the Middle Jurassic Jiulongshan Formation of Inner Mongolia, China. This is the earliest fossil record of the family Rhopalidae in the world.
Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) types of the Fernando de Zayas collection, Havana, Cuba
Authors: NEARNS EUGENIO H. , BRANHAM MARC A. , BYBEE SETH M.
Published: May 2019

Habitus photographs of the cerambycid types (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) of the Fernando de Zayas Collection, Havana, Cuba, are presented. Color photographs are available on the Internet. Lectotypes are herein designated for two taxa, Plectromerus pinicola Zayas and Phidola superba Zayas (= Eupogonius superbus (Zayas)).
An overview of the South African tangle-veined flies (Diptera: Nemestrinidae), with an annotated key to the genera and a checklist of species
Authors: BARRACLOUGH DAVID A.
Published: May 2019

The South African Nemestrinidae are reviewed. Regional family characteristics, biology and the importance of long-proboscid species in pollination biology are discussed. Long-proboscid species (proboscis 15 mm or longer) are important pollinators in most provinces, but particularly in the Western Cape; all have specialised pollination interactions with long-tubed flower species. Five pollination guilds centered on long-proboscid species are briefly discussed.        A detailed, annotated key to the six genera is presented; in it particular attention is given to the problematic distinction between Prosoeca Schiner and Stenobasipteron Lichtwardt. A checklist of all described species considered to have a South African provenance is provided. A total of 43 described species is recorded in the following genera: Moegistorhynchus Macquart (4 species); Prosoeca (35 species); Stenobasipteron (1 species); Atriadops Wandolleck (1 species); Nycterimyia Lichtwardt (1 species); Trichopsidea Westwood (1 species).        Moegistorhynchus is restricted to the west coast (Western Cape, Northern Cape). Three of its species have a remarkably elongate proboscis, the best known and most widespread being M. longirostris (Wiedemann, 1819). Its proboscis reaches 90 to 100 mm in length in some specimens, this being the longest proboscis of all known Diptera. Two new species have been identified in the fauna.        Prosoeca dominates the fauna, and is the only genus likely to be represented in all nine provinces. It appears to occur in all habitats except closed-canopy forest. Prosoeca major Bezzi, 1924 is newly synonymised with P. robusta Bezzi, 1924. The likely South African provenance of P. nigripes (Macquart, 1840) is confirmed. Nemestrina obscura Westwood, 1835, previously referred to Prosoeca, is considered not to be an Afrotropical species. Prosoeca rhodesiensis Bequaert, 1925a, is recorded from South Africa for the first time.        Although Stenobasipteron is restricted to only one named South African species, namely S. wiedemanni Lichtwardt, 1910 from the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, several undescribed species occur in Mpumalanga and Limpopo. Stenobasipteron wiedemanni occurs in closed-canopy forest, but species from Mpumalanga may occur in other habitats such as grassland and savanna.        There are at least two species of Atriadops, one almost certainly being A. vespertilio (Loew, 1858). The genus is recorded from the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Mpumalanga. A taxonomic revision is recommended. Nycterimyia is represented by one species only, namely N. capensis Bezzi, 1924 from KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo. Trichopsidea is represented by one species, T. costata (Loew, 1858), recorded from North West, Gauteng and Limpopo.
Revision of the untreated taxa of Melaloncha s. s. bee-killing flies (Diptera: Phoridae)
Authors: BROWN BRIAN V.
Published: May 2019

The previously untreated sections of the bee-parasitizing, Neotropical phorid genus Melaloncha Brues are revised. A total of 167 species of these strictly New World flies are now recognized, including the following 36 new species: M. acicula, M. berezovskiyi, M. calathea, M. ciliata, M. cordyla, M. crinita, M. declivata, M. dibitettii, M. erinacea, M. feleoae, M. flavilineata, M. forficata, M. gomezi, M. gonzalezae, M. gradata, M. hirsuta, M. immaculata, M. kittsonae, M. lacerna, M. laselvae, M. licina, M. muricata, M. nannocauda, M. oligoseta, M. pilidorsata, M. prostata, M. rasmusseni, M. rodeoensis, M. ruinensis, M. simoni, M. simotris, M. torquata, M. trichopera, M. umbra, M. xanthocauda and M. zurquiensis. Because of insufficient differences among examined specimens, Melaloncha cuspidata Borgmeier is synonymized with M. palpalis Borgmeier (new synonymy). A lectotype is designated for the species M. plaumanni Borgmeier. Hosts and behavior of some species is discussed, and a new key to species and species groups of Melaloncha is presented.
A Limited Role for Unforced Internal Variability in Twentieth-Century Warming
Authors: Haustein Karsten , Otto Friederike E. L. , Venema Victor , Jacobs Peter , Cowtan Kevin , Hausfather Zeke , Way Robert G. , White Bethan , Subramanian Aneesh , Schurer Andrew P.
Published: May 2019

The early twentieth-century warming (EW; 1910–45) and the mid-twentieth-century cooling (MC; 1950–80) have been linked to both internal variability of the climate system and changes in external radiative forcing. The degree to which either of the two factors contributed to EW and MC, or both, is still debated. Using a two-box impulse response model, we demonstrate that multidecadal ocean variability was unlikely to be the driver of observed changes in global mean surface temperature (GMST) after AD 1850. Instead, virtually all (97%–98%) of the global low-frequency variability (>30 years) can be explained by external forcing. We find similarly high percentages of explained variance for interhemispheric and land–ocean temperature evolution. Three key aspects are identified that underpin the conclusion of this new study: inhomogeneous anthropogenic aerosol forcing (AER), biases in the instrumental sea surface temperature (SST) datasets, and inadequate representation of the response to varying forcing factors. Once the spatially heterogeneous nature of AER is accounted for, the MC period is reconcilable with external drivers. SST biases and imprecise forcing responses explain the putative disagreement between models and observations during the EW period. As a consequence, Atlantic multidecadal variability (AMV) is found to be primarily controlled by external forcing too. Future attribution studies should account for these important factors when discriminating between externally forced and internally generated influences on climate. We argue that AMV must not be used as a regressor and suggest a revised AMV index instead [the North Atlantic Variability Index (NAVI)]. Our associated best estimate for the transient climate response (TCR) is 1.57 K (±0.70 at the 5%–95% confidence level).
Otopetrin-2 Immunolocalization in the Human Macula Utricle
Authors: Lopez Ivan A. , Ishiyama Gail , Acuna Dora , Ishiyama Akira
Published: May 2019

Background:

In the present study, we investigated the localization of otopetrin-2—a member of the otopetrin family that encodes proton-selective ion channels—in the human macula utricle using immunohistochemistry.

Methods:

Macula utricle were acquired at surgery from patients who required transmastoid labyrinthectomy for intractable vertigo due to Meniere’s disease (MD; n = 3) and/or vestibular drops attacks (VDA; n = 2) and from temporal bones (n = 2) acquired at autopsy from individuals with no balance disorders. Immunofluorescence staining with otopetrin-2 (rabbit affinity purified polyclonal antibody) and GFAP (mouse monoclonal antibody) to identify vestibular supporting cells was made in formalin fixed cryostat sections or whole microdissected utricle (for flat mount preparations). Secondary antibodies against rabbit and mouse were used for the identification of both proteins. Digital fluorescent images were obtained using a high-resolution laser confocal microscope.

Results:

Using cryostat sections and flat mount preparations otopetrin-2 immunofluorescence was seen as punctated signal throughout the supporting cells cytoplasm. GFAP immunofluorescence was present in the supporting cell cytoplasm. The distribution of otopetrin-2 was similar in the macula utricle obtained from MD, VDA, or autopsy normative patients.

Conclusions:

Otopetrin-2 was localized in supporting cells in a similar fashion that otopetrin-1 previously reported in the mouse macula utricle. The differential expression of otopetrin-2 in the supporting cells of the human macula utricle suggest an important role in the vestibular sensory periphery homeostasis and otolith maintenance.
Impact of Pharmacy-Led Education Regarding Multimodal Acute Pain Management on Medical Residents’ Prescribing of Opioids
Authors: Latif Justine M. , Guirguis Erenie , Henneman Amy , Scott Victoria
Published: May 2019

Background:

Opioids are commonly prescribed for patients with acute pain. Guidelines recommend multimodal regimens to synergistically treat pain and provide enhanced recovery.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to assess changes in oral morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) prescribed by internal medicine (IM) medical residents for acute pain after a series of pharmacist-led in-services on prescribing multimodal pain regimens.

Methods:

Two hundred patients were assessed for changes in oral MMEs prescribed prior to and after a 3-part in-service series on multimodal pain management. Inclusion criteria included those who were admitted with acute pain managed by an IM resident, were prescribed analgesic(s), and were 18 years and older. Patients excluded were those admitted into the intensive care unit, receiving chronic pain management, obstetric patients, cancer patients, patients with previous opioid exposure, and patients using patient-controlled analgesia. The study outcomes were change in oral MMEs prescribed by medical residents for acute pain after the in-services, multimodal regimen use, appropriate analgesics prescribed, prescribing a bowel regimen if the patient was prescribed an opioid, and prescribers’ survey results.

Results:

A total of 6358.6 oral MMEs were prescribed before and 5297 oral MMEs were prescribed after the in-services. Fifty-eight patients before and 70 patients after the in-services were prescribed a multimodal regimen. Ten patients before and 18 patients after the in-services were given a bowel regimen. Eighty percent of the patients before and 85% after the in-services had an appropriate pain scale for their prescriptions. IM medical resident and student survey scores improved after each in-service.

Conclusion:

An educational series on multimodal regimens for acute pain management decreased opioid prescription and increased the use of multimodal regimens for acute pain.
The (r)evolution and decolonization of social work ethics: The Global Social Work Statement of Ethical Principles
Authors: Sewpaul Vishanthie , Henrickson Mark
Published: May 2019

The approval of the 2014 joint Global Definition of Social Work required that international social work associations review the associated ethical principles of social work. The Global Social Work Statement of Ethical Principles ( GSWSEP) was approved by international social work bodies in Dublin in July 2018. While the previous Statement of Ethics emphasized liberal humanist values common in the European–North American axis, the GSWSEP recognizes the global nature of the social work profession and locates human dignity at the core of social work ethics. The GSWSEP problematizes the core principles of social work, and responds to calls to decolonize social work in the context of the increasing regulation of social work.
Community Newspaper as a Tool for Community Development: A Readers’ Perception Study of Idikelethu Newspaper in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: Metula Nolukhanyo T , Osunkunle Oluyinka O
Published: May 2019

This paper evaluates readers’ perceptions of Idikelethu newspaper as a tool for community development, particularly in Alice, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Data was collected from two focus group discussions that were held in the areas where Idikelethu newspaper has high readership rates. The findings revealed that development-related issues such as health awareness, education and community safety, among others, are regularly addressed by this community newspaper. Based on the findings and analysis of data, this study concludes that Idikelethu newspaper contributes in many ways to the development of its readers and Alice community in general. It is anticipated that the findings of this paper will play an important role in assisting Idikelethu and other community newspapers to function better as agents of community development.
A Clinical Comparison of Outpatient and Standard Myringoplasty
Authors: Chanvimalueng Waiphot
Published: May 2019

This prospective study compared the surgical outcomes of 35 patients who underwent myringoplasty—16 who were treated as outpatients and 19 who were admitted as inpatients. The outpatient technique involved a free skin graft, with the temporalis fascia placed as an underlay graft. The inpatients underwent the standard myringoplasty procedure.

Postoperatively, 14 of the 16 outpatients (87.5%) and 17 of the 19 inpatients (89.5%) were completely healed within 2 weeks. The results of this study indicate that outpatient myringoplasty with a free skin graft is as safe and effective as standard myringoplasty for most patients.
Peritonsillar Abscess: The Rationale for Interval Tonsillectomy
Authors: Raut V.V. , Yung M.W.
Published: May 2019

Although peritonsillar abscess (quinsy) and peritonsillitis are common ENT emergencies, management strategies in the United Kingdom still vary among otolaryngologists. In order to obtain data on the success of the various strategies, we conducted two surveys—one concerned itself with patient outcomes, while the other sought information on physician preferences.

The survey of 571 practicing ENT surgeons revealed that 83% advise interval tonsillectomy only for patients who have a history of tonsillitis; they prefer to take a wait-and-see approach for a single attack of quinsy. Conversely, 15% advise a routine interval tonsillectomy following even a single isolated attack of quinsy/peritonsillitis. Only 6.8% still perform a quinsy tonsillectomy in selected cases.

Survey responses from 192 adults and 15 children who had been hospitalized for the treatment of quinsy/peritonsillitis revealed that the vast majority of patients who did not undergo an interval tonsillectomy were still asymptomatic 2 to 8 years later. These results indicate that a wait-and-see policy is indeed suitable for most patients who present with an isolated attack of quinsy/peritonsillitis without a history of tonsillitis.

We recommend that tonsillectomy be performed as a definitive treatment for quinsy/peritonsillitis in patients who have a history of tonsillitis. Such a history is a reliable indicator of recurrent quinsy or tonsillitis following an attack of quinsy/peritonsillitis in both children and adults. Quinsy tonsillectomy should be reserved for those few patients who do not respond to conservative measures.
Treatment of Otitis Media with Effusion Based on Politzerization with an Automated Device
Authors: Arick Daniel S. , Silman Shlomo
Published: May 2019

This study evaluated the efficacy of politzerization with an automated, hand-held device that controls volume velocity (airflow) in the treatment of 20 children with otitis media with effusion. These patients underwent politzerization twice a week for up to 6 weeks. Another 20 children with otitis media with effusion who were not treated with politzerization served as controls. Following treatment, resolution of the average air-bone gap to within normal limits was achieved in 70% of the treated group and 20% of the controls, which eliminated the need for grommet insertion in these patients. Improvement in tympanometric peak pressure was also significantly greater in the treated group. Politzerization was efficiently and successfully performed in all patients. The automated device's ease of administration and its ability to control airflow suggests that it has the potential to be an effective home treatment that can be administered by the parents or guardians of children who have otitis media with effusion.
The Importance of Quantifying Skin Reactivity in Treating Allergic Rhinitis with Immunotherapy
Authors: Trevino Richard J. , Veling Maria C.
Published: May 2019

Therapeutic options for the treatment of allergic rhinitis include environmental modifications to decrease exposure to allergens, pharmacotherapy, and immunotherapy for those patients who do not experience satisfactory relief of their symptoms with medical management. Skin testing is the best established and most sensitive indicator of allergic disease. Several techniques are currently in use to identify pertinent antigens in the treatment of inhalant allergies. We describe the various skin testing techniques that are associated with such inhalant allergies. Quantification of skin reactivity to formulate a successful antigen vial for effective immunotherapy is necessary in the management of allergic disease.
Positional Vertigo as a First Symptom of a Cerebellopontine Angle Cholesteatoma: Case Report
Authors: Beynon Graham J. , Baguley David M. , Moffat David A. , Irving Richard M.
Published: May 2019

We report a case of a cerebellopontine angle cholesteatoma whose initial sign was benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Positional vertigo caused by a central pathology is extremely rare and is usually accompanied by other suspicious features. In this case, there were no additional neurotologic symptoms or signs. The only abnormalities were seen on Dix-Hallpike testing, but because they were not consistent with a diagnosis of BPPV, the decision was made to proceed to imaging. Diagnostic rigor is required when evaluating positional vertigo, as with all symptoms of imbalance, if such cases are not to be overlooked.
First Report of a Case of Osteoma of the Larynx
Authors: Batti James S. , Abramson Allan
Published: May 2019

Osteomas are common in otolaryngology, as they often involve the skull and facial bones. On rare occasions, these tumors have also been found in the temporal bone and the tongue. Until now, osteomas have not been encountered in the larynx. We describe the case of a patient who came to our institution with hoarseness and dysphagia and who was found to have an osteoma of the larynx. Radiographic imaging, endoscopy, and pathologic classification confirmed the diagnosis. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of an osteoma of the larynx.
Adult Laryngeal Hemangioma: Report of Four Cases
Authors: Lomeo Paul , McDonald John , Finneman Judith
Published: May 2019

Laryngeal hemangiomas in adults are uncommon. We report four such cases seen at our clinic during an 18-month period in 1996 and 1997. All masses were detected by endoscopy, and all were biopsied and ablated uneventfully with a CO2 laser. All four patients recovered without incident. We feel that laryngeal hemangiomas that affect only the glottic area can be treated endoscopically with a CO2 laser without consequences.
The Vomeronasal Organ: An Objective Anatomic Analysis of its Prevalence
Authors: Won Johnny , Mair Eric A. , Bolger William E. , Conran Richard M.
Published: May 2019

The function and location of the vomeronasal organ in humans remains poorly understood. Indeed, there has been considerable controversy as to whether it even exists. Until now, there has been no published report of its prevalence or location as ascertained by the most widely accepted visual operative instrument in sinonasal surgery: the rigid nasal endoscope. In this study, multiple observers used the nasal endoscope to determine the prevalence and character of the vomeronasal organ in humans. We performed nasal endoscopy on 22 cadaver heads and 78 live humans; we also biopsied cadaver specimens to histologically confirm the endoscopic diagnosis. We found evidence of this organ in 13 of the 22 cadavers (59.1%) and in 22 of the 78 patients (28.2%). Many nasal surgeons are unaware of this organ and its potential physiologic significance. It is our hope that by recognizing its prevalence and location, nasal surgeons will be more likely to identify and possibly preserve this mysterious organ until its function is more clearly understood.
The Incidence of Sports-related Facial Trauma in Children
Authors: Perkins Stephen W. , Dayan Steven H. , Sklarew Eric C. , Hamilton Mark , Bussell Gregory S.
Published: May 2019

We conducted a survey of physician members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to determine the incidence and nature of facial traumas seen in their practices. We solicited information on the anatomic location of each injury, the severity of the trauma, and whether the injury occurred during a sports activity. According to the responses, 21% of facial fractures and 29% of nasal fractures were experienced by patients aged 17 years and younger who were participating in sports. We believe that many such injuries can be prevented with greater use of protective equipment.
Laser-assisted Myringotomy for Otitis Media: A Feasibility Study with Short-term Followup
Authors: Reilly James S. , Deutsch Ellen S. , Cook Steven
Published: May 2019

Intermediate-duration middle ear ventilation appears to be a good treatment option for selected children with otitis media. Laser-assisted myringotomy is one way to provide such ventilation. It can provide prompt pain relief and resolution of middle ear effusion and effusion-related hearing loss, and it can provide an opportunity for surveillance of antibiotic-resistant organisms. We performed laser-assisted myringotomy on 97 ears of 54 children over a 5-month period. All children had acute or recurrent otitis media or persistent middle ear effusions. Our experience suggests that laser-assisted myringotomy is a feasible treatment option for selected patients. Practitioner experience and patient and family considerations will contribute to the decision whether to use general or topical anesthesia.
A New Ligation Approach to the Management of Chronic Epistaxis
Authors: Adornato Samuel G.
Published: May 2019

Standard cauterization therapy for chronic epistaxis is less than ideal because of the inadequacy of topical anesthesia and the difficulty of treating young, often uncooperative patients. The author has developed a new procedure for treating these patients, which entails ligation and cauterization while the patient is under light general anesthesia in an outpatient surgical facility. Of the approximately 75 procedures the author has performed. only one failed to achieve expected results. This article describes how this safe, simple, and ultimately cost-effective procedure is performed.
Uncontrolled Central Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma: Case Report
Authors: Clark J. Madison , Triana Rudolph J. , Meredith Scott D.
Published: May 2019

Central adenoid cystic carcinomas are rare malignancies that are believed to arise in ectopic salivary gland tissue within the maxilla or mandible. We describe the diagnosis and treatment of a central adenoid cystic carcinoma in a 54-year-old man, which we believe was a recurrence of an earlier growth that had not been completely excised. We also present a review of the literature.
Patients’ Perceived Outcomes after Stapedectomy for Otosclerosis
Authors: Meyer Susanna E. , Megerian Cliff A.
Published: May 2019

We conducted a retrospective study of 29 patients who had undergone stapedectomy for otosclerosis to determine how well their subjective perceptions of hearing improvement correlated with objective audiometric measurements. Patients expressed their assessments of hearing function by completing two versions of the Hearing Disability and Handicap Scale (HDHS). One version of the HDHS was based on patients’ retrospective recollections of their hearing impairment prior to surgery, and the other reflected their assessment of their current function. We evaluated these HDHS data both separately and in conjunction with pre- and postoperative audiometric findings. Following surgery, the group's mean pure-tone average improved significantly, from 58 to 27 dB—that is, the average patient had a moderately severe hearing loss preoperatively and only a mild hearing loss postoperatively. Significant improvement was also reflected in the difference between the mean pre- and postoperative HDHS scores, although some patients indicated that they experienced almost no improvement. Overall, our findings indicated that there was a relationship between objective and subjective assessments of hearing improvement following surgery, but that it was weak. Although most patients perceived significant improvement, the degree of that perceived improvement cannot be predicted from the pure-tone audiogram. We conclude, therefore, that a significant difference between audiometric findings and HDHS self-assessments is useful in identifying patients who might benefit from additional counseling and/or aural rehabilitation.
The Histopathology of Routine Tonsillectomy Specimens: Results of a Study and Review of Literature
Authors: Ikram Mubasher , Khan M. Adil A. , Ahmed Muneeb , Siddiqui Tanya , Mian Muhammed Yousuf
Published: May 2019

Controversy continues to attend the routine histologic examination of tonsillectomy specimens. We performed a retrospective evaluation of 400 tonsil specimens removed from 200 patients. We found that 68.3% of the specimens contained reactive lymphoid hyperplasia, 13.5% had follicular hyperplasia, 10.0% represented acute or chronic tonsillitis, and 7.5% were normal. Only one case of malignancy was detected: a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in one tonsil of a patient who was a cigarette smoker and who had asymmetric tonsils. The results of our study, taken in combination with data already published in the literature, indicate that routine histologic examination of tonsillectomy specimens is unnecessary and results only in added costs and a loss of man-hours. However, in patients who have certain preoperative risk factors, a histopathologic evaluation of tonsillar specimens remains mandatory.