bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumor Resection Recruits Effector T Cells and Boosts Therapeutic Efficacy of Encapsulated Stem Cells Expressing IFNβ in Glioblastomas
Authors: Choi Sung Hugh , Stuckey Daniel W. , Pignatta Sara , Reinshagen Clemens , Khalsa Jasneet Kaur , Roozendaal Nicolaas , Martinez-Quintanilla Jordi , Tamura Kaoru , Keles Erhan , Shah Khalid
Published: September 2017

Purpose: Despite tumor resection being the first-line clinical care for glioblastoma (GBM) patients, nearly all preclinical immune therapy models intend to treat established GBM. Characterizing cytoreductive surgery-induced immune response combined with the administration of immune cytokines has the potential of offering a new treatment paradigm of immune therapy for GBMs.

Experimental Design: We developed syngeneic orthotopic mouse GBM models of tumor resection and characterized the immune response of intact and resected tumors. We also created a highly secretable variant of immune cytokine IFNβ to enhance its release from engineered mouse mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-IFNβ) and assessed whether surgical resection of intracranial GBM tumor significantly enhanced the antitumor efficacy of targeted on-site delivery of encapsulated MSC-IFNβ.

Results: We show that tumor debulking results in substantial reduction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and simultaneous recruitment of CD4/CD8 T cells. This immune response significantly enhanced the antitumor efficacy of locally delivered encapsulated MSC-IFNβ via enhanced selective postsurgical infiltration of CD8 T cells and directly induced cell-cycle arrest in tumor cells, resulting in increased survival of mice. Utilizing encapsulated human MSC-IFNβ in resected orthotopic tumor xenografts of patient-derived GBM, we further show that IFNβ induces cell-cycle arrest followed by apoptosis, resulting in increased survival in immunocompromised mice despite their absence of an intact immune system.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates the importance of syngeneic tumor resection models in developing cancer immunotherapies and emphasizes the translational potential of local delivery of immunotherapeutic agents in treating cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 23(22); 7047–58. ©2017 AACR.
Recurrence of Ovarian Cancer with Placental Metastasis: A Case Report
Authors: Honda Michiko , Yamada Manabu , Kumasaka Toshio , Samejima Taiki , Satoh Hirohisa , Sugimoto Mitsuhiro
Published: September 2017

A 39-year-old primiparous Japanese female was admitted to the obstetrical emergency department of our hospital because of respiratory distress resulting from a large amount of pleural effusion, soon after a caesarean delivery (CD) at another hospital. While she was undergoing the CD, a giant ovarian tumour was identified. However, the tumour could not be removed at that facility and she was transferred to our hospital. Three days after the CD, a left salpingo-oophorectomy was performed with the purpose of controlling pleural and peritoneal effusions. Based on her past treatment history and the information gathered from this surgery, recurrence of ovarian cancer was considered the final diagnosis. Earlier, at the age of 37 years, she had been diagnosed with stage IC ovarian adenocarcinoma arising from a mature cystic teratoma detected after a right salpingo-oophorectomy. These kinds of situations of accidental detection of recurrent advanced ovarian cancer in a newly pregnant patient in the emergency department are rare. Amongst them, we have identified an extremely rare case showing placental metastasis. The important lesson learnt from this case report is that detailed medical interviews and physical examinations are crucial when a pregnant woman visits a hospital without a letter of referral, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Treatment Stage Migration Maximizes Survival Outcomes in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Sorafenib: An Observational Study
Authors: Yen Clarence , Sharma Rohini , Rimassa Lorenza , Arizumi Tadaaki , Bettinger Dominik , Choo Huay Yee , Pressiani Tiziana , Burlone Michela E. , Pirisi Mario , Giordano Laura , Abdulrahman Anisa , Kudo Masatoshi , Thimme Robert , Park Joong Won , Pinato David James
Published: September 2017

Background: Level I evidence supports the use of sorafenib in patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage C hepatocellular carcinoma, where heterogeneity in efficacy exists due to varying clinicopathologic features of the disease. Aim: We evaluated whether prior treatment with curative or locoregional therapies influences sorafenib-specific survival. Methods: From a prospective data set of 785 consecutive patients from international specialist centres, 264 patients (34%) were treatment naïve (TN) and 521 (66%) were pre-treated (PT), most frequently with transarterial chemoembolization (n = 413; 79%). The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) from sorafenib initiation with prognostic factors tested on uni- and multivariate analyses. Results: Median OS for the entire cohort was 9 months; the median sorafenib duration was 2.8 months, with discontinuation being secondary to progression (n = 454; 58%) or toxicity (n = 149; 19%). PT patients had significantly longer OS than TN patients (10.5 vs. 6.6 months; p < 0.001). Compared to TN patients, PT patients had a better Child-Pugh (CP) class (CP A: 57 vs. 47%; p < 0.001) and a lower BCLC stage (BCLC A-B, 40 vs. 30%; p = 0.007). PT status preserved an independent prognostic role (p = 0.002) following adjustment for BCLC stage, α-fetoprotein, CP class, aetiology, and post-sorafenib treatment status. PT patients were more likely to receive further anticancer treatment after sorafenib (31 vs. 9%; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Patients receiving sorafenib after having failed curative or locoregional therapies survive longer and are more likely to receive further treatment after sorafenib. This suggests an incremental benefit to OS from sequential exposure to multiple lines of therapy, justifying treatment stage migration in eligible patients.
The herpetofauna of the Serra do Urubu mountain range: a key biodiversity area for conservation in the brazilian atlantic forest
Authors: Roberto Igor Joventino , Oliveira Cícero Ricardo de , Araújo Filho João Antonio de , Oliveira Herivelto Faustino de , Ávila Robson Waldemar
Published: September 2017

The Serra do Urubu mountain range is considered a key biodiversity area. It is situated in the Pernambuco Endemism Center, one of the most threatened regions of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. However, despite the high importance of this area little research on its herpetofauna has been performed. The present study presents an inventory of the herpetofauna of the region, through bibliographic review, searches in museum collections and field expeditions to the RPPNs Frei Caneca and Pedra D’Antas, in the municipalities of Jaqueira and Lagoa dos Gatos. The conservation status of the amphibians of the region is discussed. Five expeditions, between 2012 and 2013 were made. The methods employed were visual transect surveys, acoustic census and pitfall traps. We recorded a total of 46 amphibian species, belonging to nine families: Craugastoridae (3 spp.), Bufonidae (3 spp.), Ranidae (1 sp.), Hylidae (25 spp.), Leptodactylidae (8 spp.), Odontophrynidae (1 sp.), Hemiphractidae (2 spp.), Phyllomedusidae (2 spp.) and Microhylidae (1 sp.). We recorded 42 species of squamates: 16 species of lizards families Phyllodactylidae (1 sp.), Gekkonidae (1 sp.), Gymnophthalmidae (1 sp.), Polychrotidae (1 sp.), Leiosauridae (1 sp.), Tropiduridae (3 spp.), Dactyloidae (2 spp.), Diploglossidae (2 spp.), Teiidae (2 spp.), Scincidae (1 sp.), and Iguanidae (1 sp.); and 24 species of snakes: Boidae (3 spp.), Colubridae (2 spp.), Dipsadidae (13 spp.), Elapidae (2 spp.), Typhlopidae (1 sp.), and Viperidae (3 spp.). The occurrence of rare and/or threatened species such as the snakes Dipsas sazimai, Lachesis muta and Sibynomorphus sp. and the amphibians Hylomantis granulosa, Chiasmocleis alagoana, Boana freicanecae and Phyllodytes gyrinaethes reinforces the need for conservation measures at this highly threatened region of the Atlantic Forest.
Reptile species composition in the Middle Gurguéia and comparison with inventories in the eastern Parnaíba River Basin, State of Piauí, Brazil
Authors: Madella-Auricchio Cláudia Renata , Auricchio Paulo , Soares Enio Saraiva
Published: September 2017

The reptile diversity of the Middle Gurguéia River Basin in southern Piauí, Brazil, is little known. The rapid expansion of agriculture in the region is converting the Cerrado and Caatinga into large farming areas, which threatens biodiversity and hastens its loss. In this study, 68 specimens of reptiles from a university collection were examined, comprising 29 species: ten lizards, one amphisbaenian, 15 snakes, two turtles and one crocodilian. They were collected from five locations in the Middle Gurguéia Basin, a region not previously evaluated for reptiles. The most abundant species is a member of Tropidurus. Comparison with eight other areas in the eastern Parnaíba Basin indicated that the diversity of reptiles in the Middle Gurguéia is similar to that in other Caatinga-Cerrado ecotone areas. The reptile assemblage in the eastern Parnaíba Basin comprises 100 species of reptiles: 39 lizards, five amphisbaenians, 50 snakes, four chelonians and two crocodilians. This study expanded the known distributions of some reptiles and recorded the first occurrence of Helicops leopardinus (Schlegel, 1837) for Piauí. A cluster analysis showed that the reptile composition concords with the habitat where species were found, i.e. Cerrado, Caatinga or ecotone. Studies that associate habitat structure with each species are essential to propose efficient strategies for reptile management and conservation for the entire Parnaíba River Basin, mostly in areas that are not yet protected.
Diet of some passerines in south coast of Espírito Santo State, Brazil
Authors: Sabino Ursola , Morais Rodrigo , Duca Charles
Published: September 2017

Studies about diet of birds in Atlantic Forest are scarce. In this study, we characterized the diet of Passeriformes from the south coast of Espírito Santo State, Brazil, classifying them into trophic guilds. From 26 species a total of 94 samples were obtained by regurgitation using tartar emetic method. The 855 items found were separated into two different categories: Insects (includes other terrestrial arthropods, such as spiders and opiliones) and Fruits/Seeds. The most frequent food item was Coleopterans, and the most abundant was Hymenoptera.
Occurrence and characterization of insect galls in the Floresta Nacional de Silvânia, Brazil
Authors: Bergamini Bárbara Araújo Ribeiro , Bergamini Leonardo Lima , Santos Benedito Baptista dos , Araújo Walter Santos de
Published: September 2017

In the present paper we investigated the insect gall distribution along savanna and forest sites in the Floresta Nacional de Silvânia, Goiás, Brazil. The insect gall fauna was surveyed bi-monthly between December 2009 and June 2010. In total we found 186 insect gall morphotypes, distributed on 35 botanical families and 61 plant species. Ninety-nine insect gall morphotypes were recorded in the forest and 87 in the savanna. Gall-inducing insects belonged to Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera and Thysanoptera, with highlight to Cecidomyiidae (Diptera) that induced 34.1% of the gall morphotypes. Parasitoids and/or inquilines were recorded in 38 morphotypes, mainly from the families Eulophidae, Eurytomidae and Torymidae (Hymenoptera). Fabaceae was the botanical family with the greatest richness of galls, followed by Asteraceae and Sapindaceae, being Protium (Burseraceae), Siparuna (Siparunaceae) and Serjania (Sapindaceae) the main host genera. This is the first systematic survey of insect galls realized in the Flona-Silvânia, which result in six plant species are recorded for the first time in Brazil as host of insect galls.
Advances on Dipterology in the 21st century and extinction rates
Authors: Santos Daubian , Sampronha Stephanie , Santos Charles Morphy Dias
Published: September 2017

At least one million extant insect species have been described on Earth, of which 150,000 belong to the megadiverse order Diptera. We here synthesize data from the last 15 years of taxonomic work in Diptera, mapping the world taxonomic productivity in the order. Our data shows an increasing importance of China and Brazil in taxonomic production, along with other traditional centres such as the USA and Europe. We correlate our database with estimates of extinction rates to determine the amount of basic taxonomic research still necessary to have the description of the fly diversity before extinction. Due to the growing recent extinction rates, it is unlikely that we will be able to entirely describe unknown fly diversity before their demise. Even considering that is still a constant and increasing speed of new species description, raising the number of active dipterists in the world is an urgent priority and the only real solution.
Epicardial Breakthrough Waves During Sinus Rhythm
Authors: Mouws Elisabeth M.J.P. , Lanters Eva A.H. , Teuwen Christophe P. , van der Does Lisette J.M.E. , Kik Charles , Knops Paul , Bekkers Jos A. , Bogers Ad J.J.C. , de Groot Natasja M.S.
Published: September 2017

Background:

Epicardial breakthrough waves (EBW) during atrial fibrillation are important elements of the arrhythmogenic substrate and result from endo-epicardial asynchrony, which also occurs to some degree during sinus rhythm (SR). We examined the incidence and characteristics of EBW during SR and its possible value in the detection of the arrhythmogenic substrate associated with atrial fibrillation.

Methods and Results:

Intraoperative epicardial mapping (interelectrode distances 2 mm) of the right atrium, Bachmann’s bundle, the left atrioventricular groove, and the pulmonary vein area was performed during SR in 381 patients (289 male, 67±10 years) with ischemic or valvular heart disease. EBW were referred to as sinus node breakthrough waves if they were the earliest right atrial activated site. A total of 218 EBW and 57 sinus node breakthrough waves were observed in 168 patients (44%). EBW mostly occurred at right atrium (N=105, 48%) and left atrioventricular groove (N=67, 31%), followed by Bachmann’s bundle (N=27, 12%) and pulmonary vein area (N=19, 9%;
P
<0.001). EBW occurred most often in ischemic heart disease patients (N=114, 49%) compared with (ischemic and) valvular heart disease patients (N=26, 17%;
P
<0.001). EBW electrograms most often consisted of double and fractionated potentials (N=137, 63%). In case of single potentials, an R wave was observed in 88% (N=71) of EBW, as opposed to 21% of sinus node breakthrough waves (N=5;
P
<0.001). Fractionated EBW potentials were more often observed at the right atrium and Bachmann’s bundle (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:

During SR, EBW are present in over a third of patients, particularly in thicker parts of the atrial wall. Features of SR EBW indicate that muscular connections between endo- and epicardium underlie EBW and that a slight degree of endo-epicardial asynchrony required for EBW to occur is already present in some areas during SR. Hence, an anatomic substrate is present, which may enhance the occurrence of EBW during atrial fibrillation, thereby promoting atrial fibrillation persistence.
Race and Socioeconomic Differences Associated With Changes in Statin Eligibility Under the 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Cholesterol Guidelines
Authors: Verma Amol A. , Jimenez Marcia P. , Subramanian S.V. , Sniderman Allan D. , Razak Fahad
Published: September 2017

Background—

The 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guidelines expanded eligibility criteria for statins. We examined race and socioeconomic differences associated with these changes.

Methods and Results—

This was an observational study of adults between 40 and 75 years of age using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys between 2005 and 2012. Change in eligibility for statins was assessed based on the third adult treatment panel criteria and the 2013 ACC/AHA guidelines. Differences relating to self-reported race, income, education, and insurance status were assessed in models that were adjusted for age and each of the other factors. Statin eligibility increased among all race, education, and income groups. Becoming newly eligible for statins was more likely for black people (25.8% newly eligible; adjusted odds ratio, 3.8;
P
<0.001), people of other races (18.7%; adjusted odds ratio, 2.5;
P
<0.001), those with no more than high-school education (17.3%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.7;
P
=0.001), and those with no health insurance (17.6%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.5;
P
<0.001) compared with white people (14.5%), those who completed college (13.0%), and those with health insurance (15.6%). Income differences were not significant after adjusting for age, race, and education. These differences were driven by the prevalence of elevated predicted cardiac risk and diabetes mellitus. Among the US adults who were newly eligible for statins, 12.4 million (66.3%) were nonwhite, had lower education or lower income, and 3.0 million (16.1%) had no health insurance. Race and socioeconomic differences in statin eligibility were more pronounced under the 2013 ACC/AHA guidelines than under third adult treatment panel. If treatment disparities remain unchanged, the 2013 ACC/AHA guidelines increase the number of US adults who are eligible but do not receive statins by 3.0 million nonwhites, 3.6 million with no more than high-school education, and 4.1 million in the lowest 2 income quartiles.

Conclusions—

The 2013 ACC/AHA guidelines increase statin eligibility most among adults with nonwhite race, socioeconomic disadvantage, and no health insurance. Without improving access to healthcare, the potential gains from expanding indications for cardioprotective medications will not be realized.
Sex Differences in Clinical Characteristics, Psychosocial Factors, and Outcomes Among Patients With Stable Coronary Heart Disease: Insights from the STABILITY (Stabilization of Atherosclerotic Plaque by Initiation of Darapladib Therapy) Trial
Authors: Guimarães Patricia Oliveira , Granger Christopher B. , Stebbins Amanda , Chiswell Karen , Held Claes , Hochman Judith S. , Krug‐Gourley Susan , Lonn Eva , Lopes Renato D. , Stewart Ralph A. H. , Vinereanu Dragos , Wallentin Lars , White Harvey D. , Hagström Emil , Danchin Nicolas
Published: September 2017

Background

Greater understanding of differences between men and women with coronary heart disease is needed.

Methods and Results

In this post hoc analysis of the STABILITY (Stabilization of Atherosclerotic Plaque by Initiation of Darapladib Therapy) trial, we described psychosocial factors, treatments, and outcomes of men versus women with stable coronary heart disease and explored the association of sex with psychosocial characteristics and cardiovascular risk. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the relationship between sex and outcomes. Interactions among sex, psychosocial factors, and the composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke were tested. Of 15 828 patients, 2967 (19%) were women. Among women, 21.2% felt often or always stressed at home (versus 9.8% of men), and 19.2% felt often or always sad or depressed (versus 10.1% of men; all
P
<0.0001). The median duration of follow‐up was 3.7 years (25th–75th percentiles: 3.5–3.8 years). Use of evidence‐based medications for coronary heart disease at baseline and 24 months was similar between sexes, as were event rates for all outcomes analyzed. In the multivariable model including psychosocial measures, female sex was associated with lower cardiovascular risk. There was a statistically significant interaction (
P
=0.03) such that the lower risk in women varied by depressive symptom frequency, whereby women who were more depressed had a risk similar to men.

Conclusions

Female sex was independently associated with better long‐term clinical outcomes, although this was modified by frequency of depressive symptoms. This suggests that emotional state may be an important target for improving outcomes in patients with coronary heart disease, specifically in women.

Clinical Trial Registration

STABILITY ClinicalTrials.gov number (NCT00799903).
Interwoven
Authors: Schultz Kara D.
Published: September 2017

This article explores the linkages between the slave trades to Spanish and Portuguese America during the Iberian Union (1580–1640). Drawing upon legal suits, it argues that Brazilian port cities were both destinations and hubs for the re-exportation of West Central African captives to Spanish colonies. Vessels frequently “stopped over” in Brazilian ports following the Atlantic crossing due to navigational exigencies and to avoid paying the higher duties on captives levied in Spanish American ports. This article demonstrates that the integration of the slave trades to Spanish and Portuguese America facilitated the spread of slavery well beyond sugar-producing regions.
Oberonia sinica and O. pumilum var. rotundum are new synonyms of O. insularis (Orchidaceae, Malaxideae)
Authors: LI YU LING , TONG YI , YE WEN , CHEN HONG FENG , XING FU WU , YI QI FEI
Published: September 2017

Based on examinations of herbarium specimens, reviews of pertinent literature, and observations on living plants, the Chinese species previously placed in the genus Hippeophyllum are revisited. H. sinicum and Oberonia pumilum var. rotundum are reduced to synonymies of O. insularis. Nomenclature problems of the names Hippeophyllum pumilum and Oberonia pumila are also discussed.
Four species of Tubifex Lamarck (Annelida: Oligochaeta: Naididae) from Tibet, China
Authors: PENG YU , WANG HONGZHU , CUI YONGDE
Published: September 2017

Four species of Tubificinae (Oligochaeta: Naididae), Tubifex laxus n. sp., Tubifex gracilentus n. sp., Tubifex conicus He, Wang & Cui, 2012, and Tubifex tubifex (Müller, 1774) are reported from Tibet, China. T. laxus n. sp. is distinguished from allied species by relatively wide atria. T. gracilentus n. sp. differs from congeners in extremely thin and long penial sheaths. T. conicus is redefined as a species that lacks spermathecae. T. tubifex as redescribed here has slightly hirsute hair chaetae, cuticle rings around the penes and spermathecae with empty ampullae.
Review of the genus Elasmostethus (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Acanthosomatidae) from the Korean Peninsula
Authors: KIM WONGUN , KIM JUNGGON , LEE HODAN , RÉDEI DÁVID , JUNG SUNGHOON
Published: September 2017

The species of the genus Elasmostethus Fieber, 1860 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Acanthosomatidae) occurring in the Korean Peninsula are reviewed. Six species are recognized; the occurrence of four previously recorded species, including E. brevis Lindberg, 1934, E. humeralis Jakovlev, 1883, E. interstinctus (Linnaeus, 1758), and E. nubilus (Dallas, 1851) is confirmed; two species, E. rotundus Yamamoto, 2003, and E. yunnanus Hsiao & Liu, 1977, are recorded for the first time from Korea. The record of E. kansuensis Hsiao & Liu, 1977, is based on misidentification of E. yunnanus, the former species is deleted from the Korean fauna. Photographs of habitus and genital segments of all the recognized Korean species are included, diagnoses and a key to the Korean species are provided.
Evidence for a Nimbostratus Uncinus in a Convectively Generated Mixed-Phase Stratiform Cloud Shield
Authors: Schmidt Jerome M. , Flatau Piotr J. , Harasti Paul R.
Published: September 2017

The structure of a melting layer associated with a mesoconvective system is examined using a combination of in situ aircraft measurements and a unique Doppler radar operated by the U.S. Navy that has a range resolution as fine as 0.5 m. Interest in this case was motivated by ground-based all-sky camera images that captured the transient development of midlevel billow cloud structures within a precipitating trailing stratiform cloud shield associated with a passing deep convective system. A sequence of high-fidelity time–height radar measurements taken of this storm system reveal that the movement of the billow cloud structure over the radar site corresponded with abrupt transitions in the observed low-level precipitation structure. Of particular note is an observed transition from stratiform to more periodic and vertically slanted rain shaft structures that both radar and aircraft measurements indicate have the same temporal periodicity determined to arise visually between successive billow cloud bands. Doppler, balloon, and aircraft measurements reveal these transient bands are associated with a shallow circulation field that resides just above the melting level in a layer of moist neutral stability and strong negative vertical wind shear. The nature of these circulations and their impact on the evolving precipitation field are described in the context of known nimbostratus cloud types.
Quantifying the Lead Time Required for a Linear Trend to Emerge from Natural Climate Variability
Authors: Li Jingyuan , Thompson David W. J. , Barnes Elizabeth A. , Solomon Susan
Published: September 2017

This study introduces a simple analytic expression for calculating the lead time required for a linear trend to emerge in a Gaussian first-order autoregressive process. The expression is derived from the standard error of the regression and is tested using the NCAR Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble of climate change simulations. It is shown to provide a robust estimate of the point in time when the forced signal of climate change has emerged from the natural variability of the climate system with a predetermined level of statistical confidence. The expression provides a novel analytic tool for estimating the time of emergence of anthropogenic climate change and its associated regional climate impacts from either observed or modeled estimates of natural variability and trends.
Impact of Tropical Deforestation and Forest Degradation on Precipitation over Borneo Island
Authors: Takahashi Atsuhiro , Kumagai Tomo’omi , Kanamori Hironari , Fujinami Hatsuki , Hiyama Tetsuya , Hara Masayuki
Published: September 2017

Southeast Asian tropical rain forests in the Maritime Continent are among the most important biomes in terms of global and regional water cycling. How land use and land cover change (LULCC) relating to deforestation and forest degradation alter the local hydroclimate over the island of Borneo is examined using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model with an appropriate land surface model for describing the influence of changes in the vegetation status on the atmosphere. The model was validated against precipitation data from Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite 3B42 measurements. A main novelty in this analysis is that the diurnal cycle of precipitation over the island, which is a dominant climatic characteristic of the Maritime Continent, was successfully reproduced. To clarify the impact of the LULCC on the precipitation regimes over the island, numerical experiments were performed with the model that demonstrated the following. Deforestation that generates high albedo areas, such as bare lands, would induce a reduction in precipitation because of reductions in evapotranspiration, convection, and horizontal atmospheric moisture inflow. On the other hand, a decrease in evapotranspiration efficiency without changing the surface albedo could increase precipitation due to an increase in convection and horizontal atmospheric moisture inflow in compensation for the decrease in evapotranspiration. In detail, on the Maritime Continent, through changes in the land surface heating process and land–sea breeze circulation, the LULCC would impact the amplitude of the diurnal precipitation cycle in each region as defined according to the distance from the coast, resulting in changes in the precipitation regimes over the island.
Does the Representation of Flow Structure and Turbulence at a Cold Front Converge on Multiscale Observations with Model Resolution?
Authors: Harvey Ben , Methven John , Eagle Chloe , Lean Humphrey
Published: September 2017

In situ aircraft observations are used to interrogate the ability of a numerical weather prediction model to represent flow structure and turbulence at a narrow cold front. Simulations are performed at a range of nested resolutions with grid spacings of 12 km down to 100 m, and the convergence with resolution is investigated. The observations include the novel feature of a low-altitude circuit around the front that is closed in the frame of reference of the front, thus allowing the direct evaluation of area-average vorticity and divergence values from circuit integrals. As such, the observational strategy enables a comparison of flow structures over a broad range of spatial scales, from the size of the circuit itself ([Formula: see text]100 km) to small-scale turbulent fluctuations ([Formula: see text]10 m). It is found that many aspects of the resolved flow converge successfully toward the observations with resolution if sampling uncertainty is accounted for, including the area-average vorticity and divergence measures and the narrowest observed cross-frontal width. In addition, there is a gradual handover from parameterized to resolved turbulent fluxes of moisture and momentum as motions in the convective boundary layer behind the front become partially resolved in the highest-resolution simulations. In contrast, the parameterized turbulent fluxes associated with subgrid-scale shear-driven turbulence ahead of the front do not converge on the observations. The structure of frontal rainbands associated with a shear instability along the front also does not converge with resolution, indicating that the mechanism of the frontal instability may not be well represented in the simulations.
Recyclable amitraz-ethylene vinyl acetate strips used for beehives treatment against Varroa destructor
Authors: Karp Federico , Luna Julio A , Mengatto Luciano N
Published: September 2017

In this work, a new recyclable ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)-based strip impregnated with amitraz (AMZ) was prepared, characterized, and evaluated for the treatment of Apis mellifera against Varroa destructor. Bees are important for natural pollination, honey, and related goods production. Varroa destructor is currently considered one of the major pests and important efforts around the world are focused on methods for varroasis treatment. The procedure of strips preparation presented in this work consisted of two steps: impregnation and molding of impregnated pellets. Differential scanning calorimetry and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analyses confirmed that AMZ molecule resisted the impregnation and molding conditions. The strips were sufficiently strong to resist destruction by the bees. The final infestation was lower in the hives treated with AMZ/EVA strips than in those treated with commercial strips. In order to check the possibility of recycling, strips were cut into little pieces and were subjected to total AMZ extraction. Finally, the fragments were exposed to re-impregnation and molding. The strips prepared after the recycling process presented the same shape and AMZ load than fresh strips.
Measurement Matters: Offense Types and Specialization
Authors: Humphrey Tamara , Gibbs Van Brunschot Erin
Published: September 2017

Offender specialization—the tendency to repeat specific offenses—is the basis of practical orientations toward managing offending by the criminal justice system. Alternatively, dominant criminological paradigms postulate that offending versatility is the norm. We consider this incongruity by, first, considering “practice” in action, through the examination of the designations used by the Canadian criminal justice system to categorize offenders based on the assumption of specialization, and whether these determinations accurately reflect the offending behavior of offenders who have committed violent interpersonal crimes. Second, we compare several other measures of specialization among our population to investigate whether different measures produce similar findings regarding the repeat of specific offense types. Official criminal record data, from first offense to the end of the study date (2014), for a population of offenders in a western Canadian city who were convicted of violent interpersonal sexual and nonsexual offenses ( N = 110), were used to examine the tendency toward specialization. We employ three measures of specialization: the specialization threshold, mean percent specialization, and the diversity index—across this group of career criminals. Results indicate that evidence of specialization depends on the way in which it is measured. Although there is some support for the treatment of individuals who sexually offend against children as a distinct group compared with those who are violent (sexually or nonsexually) toward adults, there is greater evidence of versatility among all offenders than there is of specialization. Our findings suggest that establishing the risk of future offending using models other than those geared toward offense specialization may be more effective for addressing offending patterns.
Aerodynamic design of an ultra-highly loaded booster of a high bypass ratio turbofan
Authors: Chen Yuwen , Zhou Zhenggui , Cui Cui
Published: September 2017

Based on an existing high bypass ratio turbofan, this paper uses a new concept of diffusion blade profiles with large camber and low flow losses to design a rotor for the booster, which characterizes the low wheel speed, thus achieving ultra-high loading of the rotor, effectively increasing its stage pressure ratio and reducing the weight of the booster. A booster with only one stage is designed by using the new blade profiles to replace the original booster with three stages. A two-dimensional design method of S1 (blade to blade)/S2 (hub to tip) stream surfaces is applied to design the blades of the rotor and the stator in the booster, and the two-dimensional blade profiles in the S1 stream surface are designed by means of an optimization design method. The flow fields in the original and newly designed boosters are simulated by using a numerical method. At the design point, the newly designed booster has nearly the same total pressure ratio and mass flow rate as the original booster and exhibits higher efficiency than the original booster. The surge margins of both boosters are nearly equal, and the newly designed booster can preferably match the original intermediate case.
Two-year results from a phase 2 extension study of oral amiselimod in relapsing multiple sclerosis
Authors: Kappos Ludwig , Arnold Douglas L , Bar-Or Amit , Camm A John , Derfuss Tobias , Sprenger Till , Davies Martin , Piotrowska Alexandra , Ni Pingping , Harada Tomohiko
Published: September 2017

Background:

Amiselimod, an oral selective sphingosine-1-phosphate 1 receptor modulator, suppressed disease activity dose-dependently without clinically relevant bradyarrhythmia in a 24-week phase 2, placebo-controlled study in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Objective:

To assess safety and efficacy of amiselimod over 96 weeks.

Methods:

After completing the core study, patients on amiselimod continued at the same dose, whereas those on placebo were randomised 1:1:1 to amiselimod 0.1, 0.2 or 0.4 mg for another 72 weeks. Most patients receiving 0.1 mg were re-randomised to 0.2 or 0.4 mg upon availability of the core study results.

Results:

Of 415 patients randomised in the core study, 367 (88.4%) entered and 322 (77.6%) completed the extension. One or more adverse events were reported in 303 (82.6%) of 367 patients: ‘headache’, ‘lymphocyte count decreased’, ‘nasopharyngitis’ and ‘MS relapse’ were most common (14.7%–16.9%). No serious opportunistic infection, macular oedema or malignancy was reported and no bradyarrhythmia of clinical concern was observed by Holter or 12-lead electrocardiogram. The dose-dependent effect of amiselimod on clinical and magnetic resonance imaging-related outcomes from the core study was sustained in those continuing on amiselimod and similarly observed after switching to active drug.

Conclusion:

For up to 2 years of treatment, amiselimod was well tolerated and dose-dependently effective in controlling disease activity.
Promoting Learning for a Student with a Severe Disability Through Paraprofessional Training
Authors: Brock Matthew E. , Seaman Rachel L. , Downing Courtney
Published: September 2017

Most paraprofessionals are not well trained to implement evidence-based practices that can improve student outcomes. In this study, we trained a paraprofessional to use evidence-based instructional practices with an elementary student with a severe disability who exhibited challenging behavior. Through functional analysis, we determined the function of the student’s problem behavior was to escape instructional demands. We used a multiple probe across behavior design to test the efficacy of video modeling and performance feedback on the paraprofessional’s implementation of three evidence-based instructional plans that incorporated high rates of positive reinforcement. Training strategies resulted in high rates of paraprofessional implementation fidelity, and paraprofessional implementation translated into improved student outcomes. These results provide an illustration of how effective paraprofessional training can promote learning for a student with severe disabilities and challenging behavior.
Anatomical features of the cervical spinal canal in Chiari I deformity with presyrinx: A case-control study
Authors: Gadde Judith A , Shah Vinil , Liebo Greta B , Ringstad Geir A , Pomeraniec I Jonathan , Bakke Soren J , Fric Radek , Ksendzovsky Alexander , Jane John A , Schwartz Erin S , Haughton Victor
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The relationship between syringomyelia and presyrinx, characterized by edema in the spinal cord, has not been firmly established. Patients with syringomyelia have abnormal spinal canal tapering that alters cerebrospinal fluid flow dynamics, but taper ratios in presyrinx have never been reported. We tested the hypothesis that presyrinx patients have abnormal spinal canal tapering.

Materials and methods

At six medical institutions, investigators searched the PACS system for patients with Chiari I and spinal cord edema unassociated with tumor, trauma, or other evident cause. In each case taper ratios were calculated for C1 to C4 and C4 to C7. In two age- and gender-matched control groups, Chiari I patients with no syringomyelia and patients with normal MR scans, the same measurements were made. Differences between groups were tested for statistical significance with t tests.

Results

The study enrolled 21 presyrinx patients and equal numbers of matched Chiari I and normal controls. C4 to C7 taper ratios were positive and steeper in presyrinx patients than in the normal controls ( p = 0.04). The upper cervical spine, C1 to C4, tapered negatively in cases and controls without significant differences between the groups. The difference in degree of tonsillar herniation was statistically significant between presyrinx patients and Chiari I controls ( p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Presyrinx patients have greater than normal positive tapering in the lower cervical spine and greater degree of tonsillar herniation than the controls.
Use of PROMIS for Patients Undergoing Primary Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Dowdle S. Blake , Glass Natalie , Anthony Chris A. , Hettrich Carolyn M.
Published: September 2017

Background:

The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) consists of question banks for health domains through computer adaptive testing (CAT).

Hypothesis:

For patients with glenohumeral arthritis, (1) there would be high correlation between traditional patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures and the PROMIS upper extremity item bank (PROMIS UE) and PROMIS physical function CAT (PROMIS PF CAT), and (2) PROMIS PF CAT would not demonstrate ceiling effects.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Sixty-one patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis were included. Each patient completed the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) assessment form, Marx Shoulder Activity Scale, Short Form–36 physical function scale (SF-36 PF), EuroQol 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire, Western Ontario Osteoarthritis Shoulder (WOOS) index, PROMIS PF CAT, and the PROMIS UE. Correlation was defined as high (>0.7), moderate (0.4-0.6), or weak (0.2-0.3). Significant floor and ceiling effects were present if more than 15% of individuals scored the lowest or highest possible total score on any PRO.

Results:

The PROMIS PF demonstrated excellent correlation with the SF-36 PF ( r = 0.81, P < .0001) and good correlation with the ASES ( r = 0.62, P < .0001), EQ-5D ( r = 0.64, P < .001), and WOOS index ( r = 0.51, P < .01). The PROMIS PF demonstrated low correlation with the Marx scale ( r = 0.29, P = .02). The PROMIS UE demonstrated good correlation with the ASES ( r = 0.55, P < .0001), SF-36 ( r = 0.53, P < .01), EQ-5D ( r = 0.48, P < .01), and WOOS ( r = 0.34, P <.01), and poor correlation with the Marx scale ( r = 0.06, P = .62). There were no ceiling or floor effects observed. The mean number of items administered by the PROMIS PRO was 4.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that for a patient population with operative shoulder osteoarthritis, PROMIS UE and PROMIS PF CAT may be valid alternative PROs. Additionally, PROMIS PF CAT offers a decreased question burden with no ceiling effects.
Why Do We Need Research on Value Co-destruction?
Authors: Plé Loïc
Published: September 2017

Because of the etymology of the word ‘value’, this article argues that value co-creation research and practice have been biased from their early days. Value co-destruction appears then as a concept that enables to keep some distance from this bias, and to have a better and more realistic understanding of value processes. More research on this topic is thus needed, especially in the rapidly growing context of ecosystems that make the analysis of value co-creation and value co-destruction even more complex. Finally, the article contends that research on co-destruction is a necessary, but not sufficient, step to depart from the etymological bias on value. To that end, it calls for a renewed value-related terminology to make it more encompassing, less biased and closer to real business life.
Recombinant ADAMTS-13: first-in-human pharmacokinetics and safety in congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Scully Marie , Knöbl Paul , Kentouche Karim , Rice Lawrence , Windyga Jerzy , Schneppenheim Reinhard , Hovinga Johanna A. Kremer , Kajiwara Michiko , Fujimura Yoshihiro , Maggiore Caterina , Doralt Jennifer , Hibbard Christopher , Martell Leah , Ewenstein Bruce
Published: September 2017

Key Points

First-in-human, phase 1 study, recombinant ADAMTS-13 was safe, nonimmunogenic, and tolerated in congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Recombinant ADAMTS-13 pharmacokinetic profile was comparable to plasma infusion studies, with evidence of pharmacodynamic activity.
TLR5 signaling in murine bone marrow induces hematopoietic progenitor cell proliferation and aids survival from radiation
Authors: Zhang Benyue , Oyewole-Said Damilola , Zou Jun , Willliams Ifor R. , Gewirtz Andrew T.
Published: September 2017

Key Points

Flagellin activates TLR5 signaling in mouse bone marrow and induces hematopoietic progenitor cell proliferation. Flagellin-induced MPP3 cells aid the survival of mice exposed to lethal irradiation.
Disease severity and slower psychomotor speed in adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Jorgensen Dana R. , Metti Andrea , Butters Meryl A. , Mettenburg Joseph M. , Rosano Caterina , Novelli Enrico M.
Published: September 2017

Key Points

First study of cognitive functioning in adult patients with SCD genotypes other than homozygous for hemoglobin S. Patients with “severe” genotypes had significantly poorer speed of processing when compared with those with “moderate” genotypes.
Responding to Patient Requests for Hastened Death: Physician Aid in Dying and the Clinical Oncologist
Authors: Spence Rebecca A. , Blanke Charles D. , Keating Thomas J. , Taylor Lynne P.
Published: September 2017

Physician aid in dying (PAD) or assisted suicide is becoming legal in more US jurisdictions. Meanwhile, the needs of terminally ill patients with cancer are receiving greater attention, including the integration of palliative care into oncology practice. This article highlights a case vignette of a patient with advanced cancer who requests PAD from her oncologist, as a backdrop to help the practicing oncologist examine his or her moral stance regarding participation in aid in dying. The article concludes by offering a framework within which the practicing oncologist can receive and process a patient’s request for PAD.
Effect of High Inspiratory Oxygen Fraction on Endothelial Function in Healthy Volunteers: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Pilot Study
Authors: Larsen Mikkel Hjordt Holm , Ekeloef Sarah , Kokotovic Dunja , Schou-Pedersen Anne-Marie , Lykkesfeldt Jens , Gögenür Ismail
Published: September 2017

It has been suggested that high inspiratory oxygen concentrations during anesthesia may be associated with higher postoperative mortality due to endothelial dysfunction. A randomized controlled crossover study was conducted with 25 healthy male volunteers. They inhaled an oxygen concentration of 30% and 80%. The endothelial function was assessed using noninvasive digital pulse amplitude tonometry (EndoPAT) supported by endothelial biomarkers. The difference in endothelial function between the 2 treatments was 0.05 (95% confidence interval, −0.36 to 0.27; P = .77). Endothelial biomarkers were unaffected. Inhalation of a high oxygen fraction in healthy volunteers did not result in a significant reduction of endothelial function.
MicroRNAs as Clinical Biomarkers and Therapeutic Tools in Perioperative Medicine
Authors: Kreth Simone , Hübner Max , Hinske Ludwig Christian
Published: September 2017

Over the past decade, evolutionarily conserved, noncoding small RNAs—so-called microRNAs (miRNAs)—have emerged as important regulators of virtually all cellular processes. miRNAs influence gene expression by binding to the 3′-untranslated region of protein-coding RNA, leading to its degradation and translational repression. In medicine, miRNAs have been revealed as novel, highly promising biomarkers and as attractive tools and targets for novel therapeutic approaches. miRNAs are currently entering the field of perioperative medicine, and they may open up new perspectives in anesthesia, critical care, and pain medicine. In this review, we provide an overview of the biology of miRNAs and their potential role in human disease. We highlight current paradigms of miRNA-mediated effects in perioperative medicine and provide a survey of miRNA biomarkers in the field known so far. Finally, we provide a perspective on miRNA-based therapeutic opportunities and perspectives.