bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Modified Brain MR Image Segmentation and Bias Field Estimation Model Based on Local and Global Information
Authors: Cong Wang , Song Jianhua , Luan Kuan , Liang Hong , Wang Lei , Ma Xingcheng , Li Jin
Published: August 2016

Because of the poor radio frequency coil uniformity and gradient-driven eddy currents, there is much noise and intensity inhomogeneity (bias) in brain magnetic resonance (MR) image, and it severely affects the segmentation accuracy. Better segmentation results are difficult to achieve by traditional methods; therefore, in this paper, a modified brain MR image segmentation and bias field estimation model based on local and global information is proposed. We first construct local constraints including image neighborhood information in Gaussian kernel mapping space, and then the complete regularization is established by introducing nonlocal spatial information of MR image. The weighting between local and global information is automatically adjusted according to image local information. At the same time, bias field information is coupled with the model, and it makes the model reduce noise interference but also can effectively estimate the bias field information. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has strong robustness to noise and bias field is well corrected.
EpCAM-Regulated Transcription Exerts Influences on Nanomechanical Properties of Endometrial Cancer Cells That Promote Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Hsu Ya-Ting , Osmulski Pawel , Wang Yao , Huang Yi-Wen , Liu Lu , Ruan Jianhua , Jin Victor X. , Kirma Nameer B. , Gaczynska Maria E. , Huang Tim Hui-Ming
Published: August 2016

Overexpression of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) has been implicated in advanced endometrial cancer, but its roles in this progression remain to be elucidated. In addition to its structural role in modulating cell-surface adhesion, here we demonstrate that EpCAM is a regulatory molecule in which its internalization into the nucleus turns on a transcription program. Activation of EGF/EGFR signal transduction triggered cell-surface cleavage of EpCAM, leading to nuclear internalization of its cytoplasmic domain EpICD. ChIP-seq analysis identified target genes that are coregulated by EpICD and its transcription partner, LEF-1. Network enrichment analysis further uncovered a group of 105 genes encoding functions for tight junction, adherent, and cell migration. Furthermore, nanomechanical analysis by atomic force microscopy revealed increased softness and decreased adhesiveness of EGF-stimulated cancer cells, implicating acquisition of an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. Thus, genome editing of EpCAM could be associated with altering these nanomechanical properties towards a less aggressive phenotype. Using this integrative genomic–biophysical approach, we demonstrate for the first time an intricate relationship between EpCAM-regulated transcription and altered biophysical properties of cells that promote EMT in advanced endometrial cancer. Cancer Res; 76(21); 6171–82. ©2016 AACR.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell–Derived Exosomes Stimulate Cycling Quiescence and Early Breast Cancer Dormancy in Bone Marrow
Authors: Bliss Sarah A. , Sinha Garima , Sandiford Oleta A. , Williams Lisa M. , Engelberth Daniel J. , Guiro Khadidiatou , Isenalumhe Leidy L. , Greco Steven J. , Ayer Seda , Bryan Margarette , Kumar Rakesh , Ponzio Nicholas M. , Rameshwar Pranela
Published: August 2016

Dormant breast cancers resurge as metastatic disease after a long dormancy period in the bone marrow, where cancer cells interact with mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). However, the nature of early interactions between breast cancer cells and MSCs in the bone marrow microenvironment that facilitate adaptation to a quiescent state remains poorly understood. Here, we report that breast cancer cells prime MSC to release exosomes containing distinct miRNA contents, such as miR-222/223, which in turn promotes quiescence in a subset of cancer cells and confers drug resistance. Building on these results, we developed a novel, nontoxic therapeutic strategy to target dormant breast cancer cells based on systemic administration of MSC loaded with antagomiR-222/223. In an immunodeficient mouse model of dormant breast cancer, this therapy sensitized breast cancer cells to carboplatin-based therapy and increased host survival. Overall, our findings illuminate the nature of the regulatory interactions between breast cancer cells and MSCs in the evolution of tumor dormancy and resurgence in the micrometastatic microenvironment of the bone marrow. Cancer Res; 76(19); 5832–44. ©2016 AACR.
SOX9 Elevation Acts with Canonical WNT Signaling to Drive Gastric Cancer Progression
Authors: Santos Juliana Carvalho , Carrasco-Garcia Estefania , Garcia-Puga Mikel , Aldaz Paula , Montes Milagrosa , Fernandez-Reyes Maria , de Oliveira Caroline Candida , Lawrie Charles H , Araúzo-Bravo Marcos J. , Ribeiro Marcelo Lima , Matheu Ander
Published: August 2016

Gastric cancer remains one of the leading causes of global cancer mortality due to therapy resistance, with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection being a major risk factor. In this study, we report the significance of an elevation of the stem cell regulator SOX9 in bacteria-infected human gastritis and cancer samples, paralleling increased levels of TNFα. SOX9 elevation was more intense in specimens containing the pathogenically significant cagA+ strains of H. pylori. Notably, we found that SOX9 was required for bacteria-induced gastric cancer cell proliferation, increased levels of β-catenin, and acquisition of stem cell–like properties. Analysis of three large clinical cohorts revealed elevated SOX9 levels in gastric cancer with advanced tumor stage and poor patient survival. Functionally, SOX9 silencing in gastric cancer cells enhanced apoptosis and senescence, concomitantly with a blockade to self-renewal and tumor-initiating capability. Paralleling these effects, we also found SOX9 to mediate cisplatin chemoresistance associated with reduced disease-free survival. Mechanistic interactions between SOX9 and β-catenin expression suggested the existence of a regulatory role for SOX9 targeting the WNT canonical pathway. Taken together, our findings establish the significance of SOX9 in gastric cancer pathobiology and heterogeneity, with implications for targeting WNT–SOX9 signaling as a rational therapeutic strategy. Cancer Res; 76(22); 6735–46. ©2016 AACR.
Postdiagnosis Weight Change and Survival Following a Diagnosis of Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Cespedes Feliciano Elizabeth M. , Kroenke Candyce H. , Bradshaw Patrick T. , Chen Wendy Y. , Prado Carla M. , Weltzien Erin K. , Castillo Adrienne L. , Caan Bette J.
Published: August 2016

Background: Achieving a healthy weight is recommended for all breast cancer survivors. Previous research on postdiagnosis weight change and mortality had conflicting results.

Methods: We examined whether change in body weight in the 18 months following diagnosis is associated with overall and breast cancer–specific mortality in a cohort of n = 12,590 stage I–III breast cancer patients at Kaiser Permanente using multivariable-adjusted Cox regression models. Follow-up was from the date of the postdiagnosis weight at 18 months until death or June 2015 [median follow-up (range): 3 (0–9) years]. We divided follow-up into earlier (18–54 months) and later (>54 months) postdiagnosis periods.

Results: Mean (SD) age-at-diagnosis was 59 (11) years. A total of 980 women died, 503 from breast cancer. Most women maintained weight within 5% of diagnosis body weight; weight loss and gain were equally common at 19% each. Compared with weight maintenance, large losses (≥10%) were associated with worse survival, with HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for all-cause death of 2.63 (2.12–3.26) earlier and 1.60 (1.14–2.25) later in follow-up. Modest losses (>5%–<10%) were associated with worse survival earlier [1.39 (1.11–1.74)] but not later in follow-up [0.77 (0.54–1.11)]. Weight gain was not related to survival. Results were similar for breast cancer–specific death.

Conclusion: Large postdiagnosis weight loss is associated with worse survival in both earlier and later postdiagnosis periods, independent of treatment and prognostic factors.

Impact: Weight loss and gain are equally common after breast cancer, and weight loss is a consistent marker of mortality risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(1); 44–50. ©2016 AACR.

See all the articles in this CEBP Focus section, “The Obesity Paradox in Cancer: Evidence and New Directions.”
Force Perception Thresholds in Cochlear Implantation Surgery
Authors: Kratchman Louis B. , Schuster Daniel , Dietrich Mary S. , Labadie Robert F.
Published: August 2016

Tissue trauma is a frequent complication of cochlear implantation (CI) surgery, but the relationship between intracochlear trauma, electrode insertion forces, and surgeons' ability to perceive these forces is poorly understood. In this study, we simulated CI surgery using a benchtop apparatus to repeatedly apply small forces to the subjects' hands while reducing the variability in their hand movements. We used a psychophysical testing procedure to estimate the force perception thresholds of 10 otologic surgeons and found a median threshold of 20.4 mN. The results suggest that surgeons have the capability to sense at least some insertion forces and are likely to perceive severe trauma such as occurs when the electrode crosses from one scala to the other.
Ethnic Inequalities in Overweight and Obesity Prevalence among Copenhagen Schoolchildren from 2002 to 2007
Authors: Pedersen Dorthe Corfitzen , Aarestrup Julie , Pearson Seija , Baker Jennifer Lyn
Published: August 2016

Background: The stabilization in levels of childhood overweight has masked increasing gaps among different ethnic and socioeconomic groups in several countries. Objective: To examine if levels and trends in childhood overweight and obesity differed by ethnicity and socioeconomic areas in Copenhagen schoolchildren. Methods: From measured heights and weights of 32,951 children 5-8 and 14-16 years of age, the prevalence of overweight (including obesity) and obesity were estimated using International Obesity Task Force criteria. Differences in prevalence levels and trends across six school years by ethnicity and socioeconomic areas were examined using logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of overweight significantly decreased from 2002 to 2007 among the youngest Western girls and boys, showed no significant changes among the oldest non-Western girls and increased among the oldest non-Western boys. In all years, the youngest non-Western children had significantly higher levels of overweight than Western children. Although the prevalence of overweight tended to be higher in low socioeconomic areas as compared with high socioeconomic areas, few differences were statistically significant. Consistent trends in overweight across the years by socioeconomic area were not observed. Conclusion: Ethnic and social inequalities exist in childhood overweight among Copenhagen schoolchildren; thus appropriate interventions targeting high-risk groups are needed
Apremilast Is Effective in Lichen Planus Mucosae-Associated Stenotic Esophagitis
Authors: Hafner Jürg , Gubler Christoph , Kaufmann Karin , Nobbe Stephan , Navarini Alexander A. , French Lars E.
Published: August 2016

A 74-year-old woman with extensive lichen planus mucosae (LPM) developed stenotic esophagitis that was refractory to intravenous glucocorticosteroids. Esophageal dilatations to 14 mm width were repeatedly performed without any lasting effect. After introducing oral apremilast, she experienced complete clinical remission within the first 4 weeks of treatment. Control esophagoscopy confirmed a marked recovery of the esophageal mucosa with no recurrence of the former stenosis. Our observation is in line with the case series of Paul et al. [J Am Acad Dermatol 2013;68: 255–261] who first reported on the benefit of apremilast in patients with extensive LPM. Ideally, the effectiveness of apremilast in LPM should be studied in a randomized controlled trial.
Long-Term Donor Outcomes after Pure Laparoscopic versus Open Living Donor Nephrectomy: Focus on Pregnancy Rates, Hypertension and Quality of Life
Authors: Friedersdorff Frank , Kothmann Lisa , Manus Philipp , Roigas Jan , Kempkensteffen Carsten , Magheli Ahmed , Busch Jonas , Liefeldt Lutz , Giessing Markus , Deger Serdar , Schostak Martin , Miller Kurt , Fuller Tom Florian
Published: August 2016

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to compare long-term donor outcomes after open and laparoscopic living donor nephrectomy. The focus was on pregnancy rates, hypertension and quality of life parameters. Materials and Methods: Data were retrospectively collected using our institution's electronic database and a structured questionnaire. The study included 30 donors after open donor nephrectomy (ODN) and 131 donors after laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN). Results: Demographic data did not differ between groups. When asked for their preference, significantly more donors in the LDN group would choose the same surgical approach again. The overall frequency of postoperative complications was significantly lower in the LDN group. The incidence of grade III complications was 2% after LDN and 10% after ODN (p = 0.79). Only 2 out of 15 female donors aged between 18 and 45 years delivered a healthy child after DN. On interview, only 4 out of 15 female donors declared the desire to have children after DN. Conclusions: From the donor perspective, long-term outcomes after LDN are more favorable than after ODN. To ensure favorable functional outcomes, strict preoperative donor selection and diligent long-term donor follow-up are required.
Baicalin Attenuates Alcoholic Liver Injury through Modulation of Hepatic Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Sonic Hedgehog Pathway in Rats
Authors: Wang Huifen , Zhang Yanli , Bai Ruxue , Wang Miao , Du Shiyu
Published: August 2016

Background/Aims: Lipid accumulation, inflammatory responses and oxidative stress have been implicated in the pathology of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Targeting inhibition of these features may provide a promising therapeutic strategy for ALD. Baicalin, a flavonoid isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, has been shown to exert a hepatoprotective effect. However, its effects on ALD remain obscure. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of baicalin on alcohol-induced liver injury and its related mechanisms. Methods: For in vivo experiments, rats were supplied intragastrical administration of alcohol continuously for 4 or 8 weeks, and then received baicalin treatment in the latter 4 weeks in the presence / absence of alcohol intake. Liver histology and function, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative mediators, and the components of the Sonic hedgehog pathway were evaluated. For in vitro experiments, alcohol-stimulated human normal liver cells LO2 were used. Results: Baicalin treatment significantly alleviated alcoholic liver injury, improved liver function impaired by alcohol, and inhibited hepatocytes apoptosis. In addition, baicalin decreased the expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and malonyldialdehyde (MDA), and increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD and GSH-Px. Furthermore, baicalin modulated the activation of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway. Administration of baicalin upregulated the expression of sonic hedgehog (Shh), patched (Ptc), Smoothened (Smo), and Glioblastoma-1(Gli-1). Blockade of the Shh pathway in cyclopamine abolished the effects of baicalin in vitro. Conclusion: Both in vivo and in vitro experimental results indicate that baicalin exerts hepatoprotective roles in alcohol-induced liver injury through inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and the regulation of the Shh pathway.
Sequential Inhalational Tobramycin-Colistin-Combination in CF-Patients with Chronic P. Aeruginosa Colonization - an Observational Study
Authors: Riethmüller Joachim , Herrmann Gloria , Graepler-Mainka Ute , Hellwig Dorothea , Heuer Hans-Eberhard , Heyder Susanne , Köster Holger , Kinder Birte , Kröger Kristina , Paul Klaus , Poplawska Krystyna , Melichar Volker O. , Smaczny Christina , Mellies Uwe
Published: August 2016

Background/Aims: In cystic fibrosis (CF), chronic microbial lung infections are difficult to treat and cause morbidity and increased mortality. Methods: In a multicentre, open-label, exploratory, non-interventional study, inhaled tobramycin (300 mg twice daily) and colistin (1 million I.U. twice daily) were sequentially combined with the aim to investigate the effect on 41 CF patients with chronic P. aeruginosa infections for six months (mean age 24 ± 10.8y). Results: Six patients had adverse events that were assessed as being related to treatment. Mucus production and coughing both decreased in 39%, whereas FEV1 absolute and relative to baseline increased by 4.9% and 9.1%, respectively (p = 0.004) in 29 patients, who were definitely treated sequentially. Efficacy of the therapy was rated ‘excellent' or ‘good' by the physicians in 80.5% of the patients. Conclusions: The results indicate that treatment with inhaled antibiotics, sequentially combined, was very well tolerated by most patients and may have a beneficial effect, even if transitory on lung function and respiratory symptoms.
MiR-30a-5p Suppresses Tumor Metastasis of Human Colorectal Cancer by Targeting ITGB3
Authors: Wei Wei , Yang Yang , Cai Jian , Cui Kai , Li Rong xian , Wang Huan , Shang Xiujuan , Wei Dong
Published: August 2016

Aims: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are dysregulated in a wide range of malignant diseases, confirming their crucial role in tumor metastasis. MiRNA-30a-5p, a member of the miR-30 family, has been implicated in many types of cancers, including colorectal cancer, a leading cause of death worldwide. Methods: qRT-PCR, Western blot, Transwell assay,luciferase reporter assay were performed in the present study. Results: In this study, miR-30a-5p was found to be significantly downregulated in human colorectal cancer tissue specimens and cell lines compared with non-cancerous tissues and cells. The overexpression of miR-30a-5p inhibited the migratory and invasive abilities of colorectal cancer cells and suppressed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a crucial process in metastasis. Bioinformatic algorithms and luciferase reporter assays revealed that integrin β3 (ITGB3) is a direct target of miR-30a-5p. Importantly, overexpression of ITGB3 in colorectal cancer cells rescued these cells from miR-30a-5p-mediated suppression of metastasis and restored the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Conclusion: Taken together, our study provides the first evidence that miR-30a-5p suppresses colon cancer metastasis through the inhibition of ITGB3. Thus, targeting miR-30a-5p might serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of colorectal cancer.
Cyclosporine Reduces Sclerosis in Morphea: A Retrospective Study in 12 Patients and a Literature Review
Authors: Bali Gabor , Frühauf Julia , Wutte Nora , Aberer Elisabeth
Published: August 2016

Background: The treatment of severe morphea is challenging, and treatment experience concerning the use of immunosuppressive agents for this condition is limited. Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyze the use of cyclosporine, its tolerability, and its effect on skin sclerosis. Materials and Methods: Patients with severe morphea who underwent treatment with cyclosporine were studied retrospectively. Results: Five of 12 patients with morphea showed complete remission and 6 patients had partial remission at the end of therapy (9-46 months, median 14) under a median cyclosporine dose of 2.4 mg/kg. The mean affected body surface area fell from 50% (2-80, median 65) to 17% (0-40, median 18). Side effects were hypertension, elevated transaminases, cholesterol, and weight gain. Conclusion: Cyclosporine can be effective in morphea. The side effects were reversible. However, the duration of treatment with cyclosporine is limited because of its potential permanent side effects. Prospective placebo-controlled studies are needed to establish the superiority of cyclosporine over other immunosuppressive drugs in this setting.
Flow Cytometry and Effusions in Lymphoproliferative Processes and Other Hematologic Neoplasias
Authors: Bode-Lesniewska Beata
Published: August 2016

Cytopathologists are regularly confronted with lymphocyte-rich effusions, and the definite decision of whether the lymphocytosis is of a purely reactive nature or a presentation of an indolent lymphoma may be an extremely difficult one based on microscopy alone. Flow cytometry (FC) offers many advantages in terms of its application in body cavity fluids, and it has proven to be very useful both in the setting of a known disease and for new lymphoma diagnoses. In this paper, the studies published in recent years dealing with the applications of FC in body cavity effusions in the context of hematologic neoplasia are reviewed, stressing the integrative diagnostic approach. The incorporation of microscopical, immunophenotypical, and molecular findings from examinations of the cellular content of effusions and the interpretation of results in relation to the current WHO classification of hematolymphoid malignancies give cytopathologists new perspectives on advanced and clinically highly relevant diagnostics.
Sappanone A Attenuates Allergic Airway Inflammation in Ovalbumin-Induced Asthma
Authors: Liu Xueshibojie , Yu Duo , Wang Tiejun
Published: August 2016

Background: Sappanone A (SA) is isolated from the heartwood of Caesalpinia sappan and exerts a wide range of pharmacological activities. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects of SA on allergic asthma in a murine model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma. Methods: BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged. Then, the mice were intraperitoneally injected with SA (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg) 1 h before OVA challenge; 24 h after the last challenge, the mice were sacrificed, and data were collected by different experimental methods. Results: The results showed that SA dose-dependently reduced inflammatory cell counts, levels of cytokines IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13, and OVA-specific IgE in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The level of IFN-γ decreased by OVA was upregulated by the treatment with SA. Furthermore, SA was found to attenuate the airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion induced by the OVA challenge. In addition, SA dose-dependently upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. SA inhibited OVA-induced asthma by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Conclusions: These data suggest that SA may have a potential use as a therapeutic agent for asthma.
Uso de drogas e ato infracional: Revisão integrativa de artigos brasileiros
Authors: Jimenez Luciene , Meireles Andrade Elisa , Batistella Bianchini Luciane Guimarães
Published: August 2016

(descritivo): Através da revisão integrativa, nosso trabalho analisou sessenta artigos brasileiros publicados entre os anos 2004 e 2014 sobre a prática de atos infracionais e o uso de drogas na adolescência. Para coleta de dados utilizamos as bases SciELO, PePSIC, PsycINFO, BVS, Lilacs com auxilio do google alert. A busca foi simples (não boleana), e para a análise os artigos foram separados em três blocos: 1 -uso de drogas, 2 -ato infracional, 3 -relação entre os dois eventos. Os resultados apontaram que os fatores estrutural, psicossocial e individual podem expor ou proteger o adolescente às situações estudadas. Porém, a relação entre a prática infracional e o uso de drogas não pôde ser confirmada, pois as pesquisas tendem a eleger diferentes sujeitos, ou seja, adolescentes de diferentes classes sociais, etnias, níveis de escolaridade, etc, diferentes campos e métodos de estudo.
Hermenéutica e Investigación Social: Narrativas generativas de paz, democracia y reconciliación
Authors: Alvarado Sara Victoria , Ospina-Alvarado María Camila , Sánchez-León María Cristina
Published: August 2016

(descriptivo): La pertinencia de los métodos de investigación implica la indagación por sus límites y posibilidades para comprender y transformar los fenómenos sociales. La hermenéutica ontológica política implica comprender sentidos y significados en su devenir, transformando a su vez las realidades sociales con otros según vivencias subjetivas e identitarias. Aquí presentamos el vínculo entre hermenéutica ontológica política y construccionismo social: primero, explicitando cómo la hermenéutica ontológica política, además de ser un modelo epistemológico para acceder a fenómenos sociales, es un aporte político a la comprensión y transformación de lo social; segundo, estableciendo un vínculo entre el socioconstruccionismo y la actitud hermenéutica que se instala en este modelo de comprensión; y finalmente, abordando la aplicación del vínculo metodológico entre hermenéutica ontológica política y socioconstruccionismo en la investigación con niños y niñas en contextos de conflicto armado.
Usefulness of Testing for Coronary Artery Spasm and Programmed Ventricular Stimulation in Survivors of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Komatsu Masayasu , Takahashi Jun , Fukuda Koji , Takagi Yusuke , Shiroto Takashi , Nakano Makoto , Kondo Masateru , Tsuburaya Ryuji , Hao Kiyotaka , Nishimiya Kensuke , Nihei Taro , Matsumoto Yasuharu , Ito Kenta , Sakata Yasuhiko , Miyata Satoshi , Shimokawa Hiroaki
Published: August 2016

Background—

Optimal therapy for patients resuscitated from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) who are not found to have structural heart disease remains to be established, especially regarding the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. Coronary artery spasm (CAS) and lethal ventricular arrhythmias are important causes of OHCA.

Methods and Results—

In 47 consecutive OHCA survivors without structural heart disease who had fully recovered (M/F 44/3, 43±13 years.), we performed dual induction tests, including acetylcholine provocation test first followed by programmed ventricular stimulation after 1 to 2 weeks. Patients with CAS were treated with calcium channel blocker–based antianginal medications; implantable cardioverter-defibrillators were implanted in all patients. The results of the dual induction tests defined 4 groups: CAS alone (n=7), inducible ventricular arrhythmias alone (n=13), both positive (n=24), and both negative (n=3). During a median follow-up period of 38 months, ventricular fibrillation recurred in all groups except the both-negative group. Of the 16 patients with a type I Brugada ECG, 2 had CAS alone, 8 had ventricular arrhythmias alone, and 6 had both positive. No ventricular fibrillation episodes were observed in the CAS-alone patients who did not also have Brugada syndrome. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the CAS-alone group was at lower risk for OHCA recurrence as compared with the Brugada syndrome group (log-rank test;
P
=0.036).

Conclusions—

Among OHCA survivors without structural heart disease, provokable CAS and ventricular arrhythmias are common and can be seen in Brugada syndrome. CAS alone without Brugada syndrome who are treated for CAS may be a lower-risk group.
Effect of Folic Acid Food Fortification in Canada on Congenital Heart Disease Subtypes
Authors: Liu Shiliang , Joseph K.S. , Luo Wei , León Juan Andrés , Lisonkova Sarka , Van den Hof Michiel , Evans Jane , Lim Ken , Little Julian , Sauve Reg , Kramer Michael S.
Published: August 2016

Background:

Previous studies have yielded inconsistent results for the effects of periconceptional multivitamins containing folic acid and of folic acid food fortification on congenital heart defects (CHDs).

Methods:

We carried out a population-based cohort study (N=5 901 701) of all live births and stillbirths (including late-pregnancy terminations) delivered at ≥20 weeks’ gestation in Canada (except Québec and Manitoba) from 1990 to 2011. CHD cases were diagnosed at birth and in infancy (n=72 591). We compared prevalence rates and temporal trends in CHD subtypes before and after 1998 (the year that fortification was mandated). An ecological study based on 22 calendar years, 14 geographic areas, and Poisson regression analysis was used to quantify the effect of folic acid food fortification on nonchromosomal CHD subtypes (n=66 980) after controlling for changes in maternal age, prepregnancy diabetes mellitus, preterm preeclampsia, multiple birth, and termination of pregnancy.

Results:

The overall birth prevalence rate of CHDs was 12.3 per 1000 total births. Rates of most CHD subtypes decreased between 1990 and 2011 except for atrial septal defects, which increased significantly. Folic acid food fortification was associated with lower rates of conotruncal defects (adjusted rate ratio [aRR], 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.62–0.85), coarctation of the aorta (aRR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.61–0.96), ventricular septal defects (aRR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.75–0.96), and atrial septal defects (aRR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.69–0.95) but not severe nonconotruncal heart defects (aRR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.65–1.03) and other heart or circulatory system abnormalities (aRR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.89–1.11).

ConclusionS:

The association between food fortification with folic acid and a reduction in the birth prevalence of specific CHDs provides modest evidence for additional benefit from this intervention.
Play, aggressive conflict and reconciliation in pre-school children: what matters?
Authors: Cordoni Giada , Demuru Elisa , Ceccarelli Enrico , Palagi Elisabetta
Published: August 2016

Play provides children with the opportunity to train in fundamental social skills, including conflict management. Here, we evaluate the management of play, aggressive conflict and reconciliation in 3- to 5-year-old preschool children. 3-year-old children show the highest levels of aggressive conflicts in free play, and do not reconcile their aggressive conflicts in the first months of the preschool year because they still lack social capacities to successfully manage interactions with peers. We found no gender bias in being aggressors or victims, but gender-typed traits were reflected in the expression of aggressiveness in same-sex peers for boys, who rely more on physical contacts than girls. Gender segregation in play is seen only in boys, regardless of age. Our results emphasize the importance of considering play, aggressive conflicts, and reconciliation as a whole, in order to obtain a comprehensive overview of the development of pre- and post-conflict dynamics in humans.
Claiming Autonomy through Agency in a Patriarchal Structure
Authors: Issaka-Toure Fulera
Published: August 2016

The Muslim marriage in Ghana is a hierarchical relationship which entails an authority and a subordinate. Husbands are the authorities while wives are the subordinates. The former has more power while the latter acts on the dictates of the former. Such is the structure of Muslim marriages at least at the theoretical level. Husbands are superior and wives are subordinates. However being subordinate does not imply one loses one’s capacity to act and decide for one’s own being. In this paper I would show through empirical research that the supposed subordinate and subservient Muslim wife alters the strand in search of autonomy.
Koenigia hedbergii (Polygonaceae: Persicarieae), a distinct new species from Shennongjia National Nature Reserve, Central China
Authors: LI BO , CHEN SHAOFENG , LI YA , WANG DA-XING , DU WEI
Published: August 2016

Koenigia hedbergii, a new and distinct species collected from the Shennongjia National Nature Reserve in the Northwest of Hubei Province (central China) is described and illustrated. The new species can be easily distinguished from other Koenigia species by its leaves lanceolate or lanceolate-ovate each showing 6–11 pairs of lateral veins and with distinct undulate margins, by its ocreae glabrous but sparsely puberulent at the bases, and achenes sharply trigonous with three pronouncedly keeled edges. A morphological comparison among the new species and the related ones, K. nepalensis and K. pilosa, is presented. The Koenigia-type pollen grains of the the new species were also observed and described.
Oricymba xianjuensis sp. nov., a new freshwater diatom (Bacillariophyceae) from Xianju National Park (Zhejiang Province, China)
Authors: ZHANG WEI , QI XIN , KOCIOLEK J. PATRICK , WANG LI-QING , ZHANG RUI-LEI
Published: August 2016

During a survey of freshwater diatoms from streams in the Xianju National Park, Zhejiang Province, China, a new cymbelloid species, Oricymba xianjuensis sp. nov. has been recorded. This species is assigned to the genus Oricymba by virtue of having a ridge separating the valve face and mantle, the presence of apical pore fields, and areolar openings with dentate occlusions. A detailed morphological description of the new species O. xianjuensis is presented, based on light and scanning electron microscopy. Oricymba xianjuensis sp. nov. is characterized by having a ridge along the valve face, as well as a linear-lanceolate outline with a moderately gibbous central portion gradually tapering towards the round, slightly protracted poles, a slightly lateral raphe with widened proximal endings and strongly deflected distal endings, and radiate striae. The taxon is morphologically compared with similar species of the genus Oricymba. The new species looks most similar to O. latirotundata, but is separated from this species by having more narrow, linear valves and a more tumid ventral margin. These findings add to our understanding the morphology and distribution of the genus Oricymba in China.
Two New Species of Isoetes (Isoetaceae) from northern Brazil
Authors: PEREIRA JOVANI B. DE S. , SALINO ALEXANDRE , ARRUDA ANDRÉ , STÜTZEL THOMAS
Published: August 2016

Isoetes serracarajensis and I. cangae, two new species from northern Brazil, are described, illustrated, and compared to similar species. Isoetes serracarajensis can be distinguished from other species by a set of characters including triangular to linear microphylls, a reniform-orbicular labium, a rudimentary velum covering up to 1/5 of the sporangial surface, dark brown to red-brown sporangia and verrucate megaspores (verrucae type 1). Isoetes cangae presents large microphylls, a reniform-orbicular labium, a rudimentary velum covering only up to 1/4 of the sporangium surface, hyaline sporangia and verrucate (verrucae type 2) to tuberculate megaspores (tubercles type 3). Based on the IUCN criteria, we suggest that Isoetes serracarajensis should be classified as vulnerable (VU) and Isoetes cangae included as critically endangered (CR).
Valerianella turcica (Caprifoliaceae), a new species from Turkey
Authors: DOǦRU-KOCA ASLI , ZARE GOLSHAN , ÇEÇEN ÖMER
Published: August 2016

Valerianella turcica, a new species from central Anatolia, Turkey, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, this new species is characterized by the combination of an inflated and regularly 6-lobed fruiting calyx with erect, triangular, aristate, and hooked lobes. Additional details on its geographical distribution, conservation status, and comparisons to related species are also provided.
Erythrodiplax ana sp. nov. (Odonata: Libellulidae) from Brazilian palm swamps
Authors: GUILLERMO-FERREIRA RHAINER , VILELA DIOGO S. , DEL-CLARO KLEBER , BISPO PITÁGORAS C.
Published: August 2016

Erythrodiplax ana sp. nov. (male holotype, six male and three female paratypes), collected in Vereda wetlands (a unique Neotropical savanna environment) in Uberlândia (Minas Gerais) and Chapada dos Guimarães (Mato Grosso), Brazil, is described and illustrated. The new species fits in Borror’s Basalis Group, and can be distinguished from other species by the combination of the following traits: blue pruinosity dorsally on thorax and third to eighth abdominal segments; sides of the thorax olive-green; face ivory or olive-green; wings hyaline with a small apical brown spot on all four wings, well defined in females; male genitalia with sclerotized erectile posterior lobe and inflatable sac-like median process. Last instar larvae were reared in the laboratory, resulting in the description of the larva. We also followed this population for 13 months and present resulting biological notes and comments on ontogenetic color change in males, as well as longevity.
Contribution to the knowledge of the genus Singilis Rambur, 1837 of Africa (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Lebiini). Part IV
Authors: ANICHTCHENKO ALEXANDER
Published: August 2016

Nine new species of the genus Singilis from Africa are described: Singilis (s.str.) shavrini sp. n. (Kenya, Tanzania), S. (s.str.) africaorientalis sp. n. (Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania, Kenya, RSA, Zambia, Zimbabwe), S. (s.str.) burtoni sp. n. (Zambia, Zimbabwe), S. (s.str.) paganeli sp. n. (RSA), S. (s.str.) somalicus sp. n. (Somalia), S. (s.str.) haekeli sp. n. (Zambia), S. (s.str.) crypticus sp. n. (Cameroon), S. (s.str.) pallens sp. n. (Namibia) and S. (s.str.) parvulus sp. n. (Zimbabwe). One new subspecies from Kenya, S. (s.str.) africaorientalis kenyacus ssp. n., is described too. Differential diagnosis of the related species Singilis (s.str.) allardi (Basilewsky, 1963), S. (s.str.) ambulans (Peringuey, 1896), S. (s.str.) cribricollis (Peringuey, 1904), S. (s.str.) pusillus (Peringuey, 1898) and S. (s.str.) zonata Chaudoir, 1878 is also proposed. Illustrations of habitus and aedeagus for every species is provided, and new country records are given.
Recharacterization of Rhinophis dorsimaculatus Deraniyagala, 1941 (Serpentes: Uropeltidae), including description of new material
Authors: GOWER DAVID J. , WICKRAMASINGHE L. J. MENDIS
Published: August 2016

The Sri Lankan uropeltid (shieldtail) snake Rhinophis dorsimaculatus Deraniyagala, 1941 was described originally from two specimens that were subsequently lost. The small amount of previously published data and lack of published colour photographs made this one of South Asia’s most poorly known snake species, and this resulted in at least one instance of taxonomic misidentification. An additional 10 specimens from a historical collection from the vicinity of the type locality recently came to light. This material is reviewed and documented and the species recharacterized. An additional locality for the species is reported. The newly reported material helps to corroborate the taxonomic validity and distinctiveness of Rhinophis dorsimaculatus. The species is readily distinguished from congeners by having 227 or more ventral scales; a large, dorsally carinate rostral shield; posterior margins of paired anals that are largely separated by the posteriormost ventral scale; and a distinctive colour pattern with bilaterally asymmetrical dark blotches within a broad, pale middorsal stripe and regularly punctate flanks.
Thylacosceles Meyrick new to China, with descriptions of four new species (Lepidoptera: Stathmopodidae)
Authors: GUAN WEI , LI HOUHUN
Published: August 2016

The genus Thylacosceles Meyrick, 1889 is recorded from China for the first time. Thylacosceles nephroides sp. nov., T. clavata sp. nov., T. cuneiformis sp. nov. and T. ellipsoidala sp. nov. are described as new. Photographs of adults and genital illustrations are provided, along with a key to the genus in China.
Ompok argestes, a new species of silurid catfish endemic to Sri Lanka (Teleostei: Siluridae)
Authors: SUDASINGHE HIRANYA , MEEGASKUMBURA MADHAVA
Published: August 2016

Ompok argestes, a new species of silurid catfish, is described from the southwestern lowlands of Sri Lanka. The new species is distinguished from all other species of Ompok in the Indian subcontinent by a combination of the following characters: body color pattern mottled; predorsal profile uniformly convex; maxillary barbels reach or extend slightly beyond base of dorsal fin; eye diameter 14.2–17.1% head length (HL); body depth at anus 19.8–22.3% standard length (SL); head width 14.3–16.8% SL; caudal peduncle depth 5.6–6.5% SL. Callichrous ceylonensis Günther is shown to be a valid species that is apparently restricted to Sri Lanka, distinguished by a combination of the following characters: distinct concavity in predorsal profile; origin of pelvic fin beneath or slightly posterior to the origin of the dorsal fin; maxillary barbels 108–166 % HL; mandibular barbels 16.1–33.7 % HL; and 58–66 anal-fin rays.
New records of Indian Nematomorpha, with the description of a new species from the genus Chordodes
Authors: SCHMIDT-RHAESA ANDREAS , LALRAMLIANA LALRAMLIANA
Published: August 2016

Chordodes tjorvenae, a new species of horsehair worms is described from Mizoram, Northeast India. The species is distinct from all other known species by a unique combination of cuticular charatcers. In addition, the occurrence of the genus Acutogordius, particularly A. finni, is reported for the first time from India.
A new species of Crinibracon Quicke (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) parasitic on pupae of Hasora chromus (Cramer) (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) from India
Authors: GUPTA ANKITA , ACHTERBERG CORNELIS VAN , CHITRALA MALATHI
Published: August 2016

A new species, Crinibracon chromusae Gupta & van Achterberg sp. n., parasitic on pupae of Hasora chromus (Cramer) (Hesperiidae) on Millettia (= Pongamia) pinnata (L.) Panigrahi (Fabaceae), is described from India and compared with C. sinicus (Yang, Chen & Liu, 2008) from China, the only other species known with a similar general appearance. For the first time biological information for the genus Crinibracon Quicke, 1988, is given. Three species of hyperparasitoids, Philolema braconidis (Ferrière) (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae), Nesolynx javanica Ferrière (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), and an Eupelmus sp. (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) emerged along with C. chromusae sp. n. from pupae of H. chromus. The generic placement of this new species along with interesting parasitoid biology is discussed.
Stochastic Parameterization and El Niño–Southern Oscillation
Authors: Christensen H. M. , Berner Judith , Coleman Danielle R. B. , Palmer T. N.
Published: August 2016

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is the dominant mode of interannual variability in the tropical Pacific. However, the models in the ensemble from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) have large deficiencies in ENSO amplitude, spatial structure, and temporal variability. The use of stochastic parameterizations as a technique to address these pervasive errors is considered. The multiplicative stochastically perturbed parameterization tendencies (SPPT) scheme is included in coupled integrations of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Community Atmosphere Model, version 4 (CAM4). The SPPT scheme results in a significant improvement to the representation of ENSO in CAM4, improving the power spectrum and reducing the magnitude of ENSO toward that observed. To understand the observed impact, additive and multiplicative noise in a simple delayed oscillator (DO) model of ENSO is considered. Additive noise results in an increase in ENSO amplitude, but multiplicative noise can reduce the magnitude of ENSO, as was observed for SPPT in CAM4. In light of these results, two complementary mechanisms are proposed by which the improvement occurs in CAM. Comparison of the coupled runs with a set of atmosphere-only runs indicates that SPPT first improve the variability in the zonal winds through perturbing the convective heating tendencies, which improves the variability of ENSO. In addition, SPPT improve the distribution of westerly wind bursts (WWBs), important for initiation of El Niño events, by increasing the stochastic component of WWB and reducing the overly strong dependency on SST compared to the control integration.
The Impact of Vertical Resolution on Fog Forecasting in the Kilometric-Scale Model AROME: A Case Study and Statistics
Authors: Philip A. , Bergot T. , Bouteloup Y. , Bouyssel F.
Published: August 2016

The impact of vertical resolution on numerical fog forecasting is studied in detail for a specific case and evaluated statistically over a winter season. Three vertical resolutions are tested with the kilometric-scale Applications of Research to Operations at Mesoscale (AROME) numerical weather prediction model over Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (Paris-CDG) in Paris, France. For the case studied, the vertical resolution has a strong impact on fog onset. The nocturnal jet and the turbulence created by wind shear at the top of the nocturnal boundary layer are more pronounced with a finer vertical resolution, and the turbulence close to the ground is also stronger with high vertical resolution. Local circulations created by the terrain induce different simulated processes during the fog onset. The fog is simulated as advection–radiation fog in the finer vertical resolution run and as radiation fog in the others. The vertical resolution has little impact on the mature and dissipation phases. A statistical study over a winter season confirms the results obtained in the fog case study. High vertical resolution simulates earlier onset, as well as longer-lasting and more spatially heterogeneous fogs. The high vertical resolution configuration simulates more fog events than are found at low resolution (LR); these fog events generally form north of Paris-CDG. No observations are available in this area, leading to many simulated but no observed fog events in the fine-resolution runs. The ceiling of low clouds is not well simulated by the numerical model no matter what vertical resolution is used.
Old game, new rules? The dynamics of enterprise bargaining under the Fair Work Act
Authors: Pekarek Andreas , Landau Ingrid , Gahan Peter , Forsyth Anthony , Howe John
Published: August 2016

Over the last quarter century, enterprise bargaining has evolved to be a primary mechanism through which wages and conditions of employment are determined in Australia. Since the introduction of the Fair Work Act, the process for negotiating enterprise agreements has been governed by principles of good faith bargaining. There has been considerable debate over the potential for these provisions to change the dynamics of bargaining, yet empirical evidence of these effects remains limited. This article reports on a field study investigating the experiences of industrial parties negotiating enterprise agreements during the first three years of the Fair Work Act. Drawing on the tribunal's own case management database, along with a large sample of interviews, the study provides a more systematic examination of the extent to which the parties have deployed the new principles governing collective bargaining, with a particular focus on good faith provisions, and whether these principles have altered the dynamics of bargaining practices.
Task-Based Variability in Children’s Singing Accuracy
Authors: Nichols Bryan E.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of task demands on children’s singing accuracy. A 2 × 4 factorial design was used to examine the performance of fourth-grade children ( N = 120) in solo and doubled response conditions. Each child sang four task types: single pitch, interval, pattern, and the song “Jingle Bells.” The results indicated that children’s singing accuracy varied by task type, with poorer performance on patterns and songs than on single pitches and intervals. Performance was significantly better for all tasks in the doubled condition than in the solo condition, and a significant interaction indicated task-based performance varied by response mode. Students who indicated some history of private lessons ( n = 54) performed significantly better than those without. Internal reliability using five test items for each type of singing task was satisfactory. Application of the Spearman-Brown formula suggests that a minimum of three items can be included in each task in future research for a reliability coefficient of .75, and four items for a coefficient greater than .80. Performance on these singing tasks was significantly intercorrelated.