bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome‐wide association studies on the phyllosphere microbiome: Embracing complexity in host–microbe interactions
Authors: Beilsmith Kathleen , Thoen Manus P.M. , Brachi Benjamin , Gloss Andrew D. , Khan Mohammad H. , Bergelson Joy
Published: November 2018

Environmental sequencing shows that plants harbor complex communities of microbes that vary across environments. However, many approaches for mapping plant genetic variation to microbe‐related traits were developed in the relatively simple context of binary host–microbe interactions under controlled conditions. Recent advances in sequencing and statistics make genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) an increasingly promising approach for identifying the plant genetic variation associated with microbes in a community context. This review discusses early efforts on GWAS of the plant phyllosphere microbiome and the outlook for future studies based on human microbiome GWAS. A workflow for GWAS of the phyllosphere microbiome is then presented, with particular attention to how perspectives on the mechanisms, evolution and environmental dependence of plant–microbe interactions will influence the choice of traits to be mapped.
Improved Modeling Capabilities of the Airflow Within Turbine Case Cooling Systems Using Smart Porous Media
Authors: Li Yanling , Walker A. Duncan , Irving John
Published: November 2018

Impingement cooling is commonly employed in gas turbines to control the turbine tip clearance. During the design phase, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is an effective way of evaluating such systems but for most turbine case cooling (TCC) systems resolving the small scale and large number of cooling holes is impractical at the preliminary design phase. This paper presents an alternative approach for predicting aerodynamic performance of TCC systems using a “smart” porous media (PM) to replace regions of cooling holes. Numerically CFD defined correlations have been developed, which account for geometry and local flow field, to define the PM loss coefficient. These are coded as a user-defined function allowing the loss to vary, within the calculation, as a function of the predicted flow and hence produce a spatial variation of mass flow matching that of the cooling holes. The methodology has been tested on various geometrical configurations representative of current TCC systems and compared to full cooling hole models. The method was shown to achieve good overall agreement while significantly reducing both the mesh count and the computational time to a practical level.
Effectiveness of Secondary School Conceptual Physical Education: A 20-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kulinna Pamela H. , Corbin Charles B. , Yu Hyeonho
Published: November 2018

Background: Previous research findings from Project Active Teen demonstrated the effectiveness of high school conceptual physical education (CPE) in promoting active lifestyles. Method: This study followed Project Active Teen participants 20 years after graduation from high school and 24 years after taking a CPE class. Physical activity behaviors were assessed using the same procedures as previous Project Active Teen studies. Activity patterns were compared with patterns while in high school and shortly after high school graduation. Activity patterns were also compared with a national sample of age-equivalent adults. Results: Twenty years after high school graduation, former CPE students were less likely to be inactive and more likely to be moderately active than when in high school and were less likely to be inactive and more likely to be moderately active than national sample age-equivalent peers. They were typically not more vigorously physically active than comparison groups. Conclusion: Results support the long-term effectiveness of CPE in reducing inactive behavior and promoting moderate physical activity later in life.
Geochemical characteristics and geological significance of the bedded chert during the Ordovician and Silurian transition in the Shizhu area, Chongqing, South China
Authors: Lu Bin , Qiu Zhen , Zhang Baohua , Li Jian
Published: November 2018

A large amount of bedded chert widely deposited during the Ordovician and Silurian transition in South China. In this study, analyses of the petrographic characteristics, the major elements and rare earth elements (REEs), were conducted on 31 bedded chert samples obtained from the Wufeng and Longmaxi Formations at the Qiliao section in the Shizhu area of the Sichuan Basin to determine the sedimentary environment and the origin of the bedded chert during the Ordovician and Silurian transition. The following conclusions were obtained: (i) the bedded chert in the Wufeng and Longmaxi Formations at the Qiliao Section originated mainly from terrigenous input and siliceous organisms and was slightly influenced by hydrothermal fluid, (ii) siliceous organisms were a key factor controlling the differences in the SiO2 content of the bedded chert in the Wufeng and Longmaxi Formations at the Qiliao Section, and (iii) the bedded chert in the Wufeng and Longmaxi Formations deposited in a continental margin environment during the Ordovician and Silurian transition.
Efficient and effective quantum compiling for entanglement-based machine learning on IBM Q devices
Authors: Ferrari Davide , Amoretti Michele
Published: November 2018

Quantum compiling means fast, device-aware implementation of quantum algorithms (i.e. quantum circuits, in the quantum circuit model of computation). In this paper, we present a strategy for compiling IBM Q-aware, low-depth quantum circuits that generate Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger (GHZ) entangled states. The resulting compiler can replace the QISKit compiler for the specific purpose of obtaining improved GHZ circuits. It is well known that GHZ states have several practical applications, including quantum machine learning. We illustrate our experience in implementing and querying a uniform quantum example oracle based on the GHZ circuit, for solving the classically hard problem of learning parity with noise.
EXPLORING CHINESE DESIGN BUSINESS OWNERS’ ATTITUDES TOWARDS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Authors: WANG QINGFENG , SUN XU
Published: November 2018

As Intellectual Property (IP) protection can nurture innovation, and since innovation is one of the critical sources of economic growth, it has become especially important since China surpassed a certain economic development stage, because China now has a growing number of its own innovations which need to be protected. This paper describes the construction of a new research model with which to explore and examine the impact of potential factors on attitudes towards Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in China in the context of the creative design industry. The findings of a quantitative study of Chinese design business owners reveal the significant roles of Confucianism, perceived economic loss and perceived effectiveness of IPR law enforcement in shaping their attitudes towards IPR. Our findings support the idea that promoting Confucianism can help to develop an internalised respect for IPR, while sizable penalties for IPR infringement can enhance the effectiveness of IPR protection.
Zircon U–Pb ages and Lu–Hf isotopes of metagranitoids from the Subansiri region, Eastern Himalaya: implications for crustal evolution along the northern Indian passive margin in the early Paleozoic
Authors: Bikramaditya R. K. , Singh A. Krishnakanta , Chung Sun-Lin , Sharma Rajesh , Lee Hao-Yang
Published: November 2018

We studied the zircon U–Pb ages, Hf isotopes, and whole-rock and mineral chemistry of metagranitoids from the Subansiri region of the Eastern Himalaya to constrain their emplacement age, origin and geodynamic evolution. The investigated metagranitoids have high SiO
2
, Na
2
O + K
2
O, Rb, Zr and low Fe
2
O
3
, Nb, Ga/Al ratios with fractionated rare earth element patterns [(Ce/Yb)
N
= 6.46–42.15] and strong negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.16–0.44). They are peraluminous (molar A/CNK = 1.04–1.27) and calc-alkaline in nature, with normative corundum (1.04–3.61) and relatively high FeO
t
/MgO ratios in biotite (
c.
3.38), indicating their affinity with S-type granites. The time of emplacement of the Subansiri metagranitoids is constrained by zircon U–Pb ages between 516 and 486 Ma. The zircon grains have negative ε
Hf
(
t
) values ranging from −1.4 to −12.7 and yield crustal Hf model ages from 1.5 to 2.2 Ga, suggesting the occurrence of a major crustal growth event in the Proterozoic and re-melting of the crust during the early Paleozoic. The geochemical data in conjunction with the U–Pb ages and Hf isotope data suggest that the Subansiri metagranitoids were produced by partial melting of older metasedimentary rocks in the Indian passive margin.

Supplementary material:
Hf isotope results for the Mud Tank zircon standard acquired during the experimental period are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.4299830
Structural setting and detrital zircon U–Pb geochronology of Triassic–Cenozoic strata in the eastern Central Pamir, Tajikistan
Authors: He John , Kapp Paul , Chapman James B. , DeCelles Peter G. , Carrapa Barbara
Published: November 2018

Integration of new geological mapping, detrital zircon geochronology, and sedimentary and metamorphic petrography south of the Muskol metamorphic dome in the Central Pamir terrane provides new constraints on the evolution of the Pamir orogen from Triassic to Late Oligocene time. Zircon U–Pb data show that the eastern Central Pamir includes Triassic strata and mélange that are of Karakul–Mazar/Songpan–Ganzi affinity and comprise the hanging wall of a thrust sheet that may root into the Tanymas Fault
c.
35 km to the north. The Triassic rocks are unconformably overlain by Cretaceous strata that bear similarities to coeval units in the southern Qiangtang terrane and the Bangong Suture Zone of central Tibet. Finally, Oligocene or younger conglomerate and interbedded siltstone, the youngest documented strata in the Pamir Plateau proper, record an episode of juvenile magmatism at
c.
32 Ma, which is absent in the extant rock record and other detrital compilations from the Pamir but overlaps in age with ultrapotassic volcanic rocks in central Tibet. Zircon Hf isotopic data from the Oligocene grains (
ε
Hf
(t) ≈ +9.6) suggest a primary mantle contribution, consistent with the hypothesis of Late Eocene lithospheric removal beneath the Pamir Plateau.
Progress of Metal Oxide (Sulfide)-Based Photocatalytic Materials for Reducing Nitrogen to Ammonia
Authors: Yang Jianjun
Published: November 2018

The Haber–Bosch process has been an important approach to produce ammonia for meeting the food need of increasing population and the worldwide need of nitrogenous fertilizers since 1913. However, the traditional ammonia production process is a high energy-consumption process, which usually produces 1 metric ton ammonia with releasing around 1.9 metric tons CO2. Photocatalytic ammonia synthesis under solar light as energy source, an attractive and promising alternative approach, is a very challenging target of reducing fossil energy consumption and environmental pollution. Therefore, photocatalytic ammonia production process would emerge huge opportunities by directly providing nitrogenous fertilizers in a distributed manner as needed in the agricultural fields. In this article, different metal oxide (sulfide)-based photocatalytic materials for reducing nitrogen to ammonia under ambient conditions are reviewed. This review provides insights into the most recent advancements in understanding the photocatalyst materials which are of fundamental significance to photocatalytic nitrogen reduction, including the state-of-the-art, challenges, and prospects in this research field.
One-Dimensional Sb2Se3 Nanorods Synthesized through a Simple Polyol Process for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Tian Yuan , Sun Zhenghao , Zhao Yan , Tan Taizhe , Liu Hui , Chen Zhihong
Published: November 2018

The good crystalline Sb2Se3 nanorods have been successfully synthesized through a simple polyol process. The detailed morphological and structural characterizations reveal that nanorods are composed of Sb2Se3 single crystals oriented along the [120] orientation; the tiny Sb2Se3 nanorods are found to display a higher crystallinity with respect to thick Sb2Se3 nanorods. The nanorods have been applied as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, with tiny Sb2Se3 nanorod anodes delivering the relatively high discharge capacity of 702 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and could maintain the capacity of 230 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. A more stable cycling performance is also demonstrated on tiny Sb2Se3 nanorods, which is ascribed to their more pronounced one-dimensional nanostructure.
Mathematical Modelling of Human African Trypanosomiasis Using Control Measures
Authors: Gervas Hamenyimana Emanuel , Opoku Nicholas Kwasi-Do Ohene , Ibrahim Shamsuddeen
Published: November 2018

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), commonly known as sleeping sickness, is a neglected tropical vector-borne disease caused by trypanosome protozoa. It is transmitted by bites of infected tsetse fly. In this paper, we first present the vector-host model which describes the general transmission dynamics of HAT. In the tsetse fly population, the HAT is modelled by three compartments, while in the human population, the HAT is modelled by four compartments. The next-generation matrix approach is used to derive the basic reproduction number, R0, and it is also proved that if R0≤1, the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable, which means the disease dies out. The disease persists in the population if the value of R0>1. Furthermore, the optimal control model is determined by using the Pontryagin’s maximum principle, with control measures such as education, treatment, and insecticides used to optimize the objective function. The model simulations confirm that the use of the three control measures is very efficient and effective to eliminate HAT in Africa.
On the Reliability and Repeatability of Surface Electromyography Factorization by Muscle Synergies in Daily Life Activities
Authors: Taborri Juri , Palermo Eduardo , Del Prete Zaccaria , Rossi Stefano
Published: November 2018

Muscle synergy theory is a new appealing approach for different research fields. This study is aimed at evaluating the robustness of EMG reconstruction via muscle synergies and the repeatability of muscle synergy parameters as potential neurophysiological indices. Eight healthy subjects performed walking, stepping, running, and ascending and descending stairs’ trials for five repetitions in three sessions. Twelve muscles of the dominant leg were analyzed. The “nonnegative matrix factorization” and “variability account for” were used to extract muscle synergies and to assess EMG goodness reconstruction, respectively. Intraclass correlation was used to quantify methodology reliability. Cosine similarity and coefficient of determination assessed the repeatability of the muscle synergy vectors and the temporal activity patterns, respectively. A 4-synergy model was selected for EMG signal factorization. Intraclass correlation was excellent for the overall reconstruction, while it ranged from fair to excellent for single muscles. The EMG reconstruction was found repeatable across sessions and subjects. Considering the selection of neurophysiological indices, the number of synergies was not repeatable neither within nor between subjects. Conversely, the cosine similarity and coefficient of determination values allow considering the muscle synergy vectors and the temporal activity patterns as potential neurophysiological indices due to their similarity both within and between subjects. More specifically, some synergies in the 4-synergy model reveal themselves as more repeatable than others, suggesting focusing on them when seeking at the neurophysiological index identification.
Distributed Estimation in Periodically Switching Sensor Networks
Authors: Niu Jie , Zhang Ya
Published: November 2018

This paper studies the distributed estimation problem of sensor networks, in which each node is periodically sensing and broadcasting in order. A consensus estimation algorithm is applied, and a weight design approach is proposed. The weights are designed based on an adjusting parameter and the nodes’ lengths of their shortest paths to the target node. By introducing a (T+2)-partite graph of the time-varying networks over a time period [0,T] and studying the relationships between the product of the time-sequence estimation error system matrices and the sequences of edges in the (T+2)-partite graph, a sufficient condition in terms of the observer gain and the adjusting parameter for the stability of the estimation error system is proposed. A simulation example is given to illustrate the results.
Clinical Significance of Serum Hemeoxygenase-1 as a New Biomarker for the Patients with Interstitial Pneumonia
Authors: Murohashi Kota , Hara Yu , Shinada Kanako , Nagai Kenjiro , Shinkai Masaharu , Kawana Akihiko , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: November 2018

Background. Serum hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) has been proposed to be a biomarker of lung disease activity and prognosis. The present study aimed at evaluating whether HO-1 could be a useful marker for evaluating disease activity and predicting prognosis in patients with interstitial pneumonia (IP). Materials and Methods. Serum HO-1 levels of newly diagnosed or untreated patients with IP were measured at hospitalization. We evaluated the relationships between serum HO-1 and other serum biomarkers, high resolution CT (HRCT) findings, and hospital mortality. Results. Twenty-eight patients with IP, including 14 having an acute exacerbation (AE) and 14 not having an AE, were evaluated. The patients having an AE had significantly higher HO-1 levels than those not having an AE (53.5 ng/mL vs. 24.1 ng/mL; p<0.001), and the best cut-off level to discriminate between having an AE or not having an AE was 41.6 ng/mL. Serum HO-1 levels were positively correlated with serum levels of surfactant protein-D (r=0.66, p<0.001) and the ground glass opacity score (calculated from HRCT; r=0.40, p=0.036). Patients who subsequently died in hospital had presented with significantly higher HO-1 levels than those who did not die in hospital (64.8 ng/mL vs. 32.0 ng/mL; p=0.009). Conclusion. Serum HO-1 may serve as a useful biomarker for detecting AE or predicting hospital mortality in patients with IP.
Combined Surgical Techniques for the Management of Malignant Glaucoma
Authors: Tang Jinfei , Du Ergang , Li Xingyu
Published: November 2018

Purpose. To characterize new combined surgical techniques for the management of malignant glaucoma. Methods. In a retrospective, interventional case series, goniosynechialysis, peripheral iridectomy, zonulo-hyaloidectomy, and anterior vitrectomy, with or without peripheral capsulectomy, were performed on nine eyes. If the patient was phakic, we performed both phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. Results. Resolution of malignant glaucoma was achieved in all cases with anterior chamber deepening. Topical antiglaucoma medications were used to control the intraocular pressure in one eye. No recurrence was observed after a median follow-up of 9 months. No complications occurred during surgery or the postoperative period. Conclusions. The combined surgical methods can completely eliminate blockade and aqueous misdirection and represent a promising treatment for malignant glaucoma.
Advanced Maternal Age and the Future Health of the Offspring
Authors: Pariente Gali , Wainstock Tamar , Walfisch Asnat , Sheiner Eyal , Harlev Avi
Published: November 2018

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the association between advanced maternal age and the long-term health of the offspring. Methods: In this population-based cohort study, hospitalizations of offspring up to the age of 18 years were compared according to maternal age. The incidence of long-term hospitalizations of the offspring due to cardiovascular, endocrine, neurological, hematological, respiratory and gastro­intestinal morbidities was evaluated. Deliveries occurred between the years 1991 and 2014 in a tertiary medical center. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to compare cumulative morbidity incidence. Cox regression models were performed to control for confounders. Results: During the study period, 202,709 deliveries were included, of which 26,287 (12.9%) were in women aged 35–39 years, and 6,718 (3.3%) in women aged 40–50 years. Children born to older mothers did not have a significantly different cumulative incidence of long-term pediatric morbidities evaluated, as compared with the comparison group, using Kaplan-Meier survival analyses. In the Cox regression analyses, advanced maternal age did not exhibit an independent association with long-term morbidities of the offspring. Conclusion: Despite the association of advanced maternal age with adverse maternal and immediate neonatal outcomes, there does not seem to be an association with the long-term morbidity of the offspring.
Glomerular Hyperfiltration: An Early Marker of Nephropathy in Fabry Disease
Authors: Riccio Eleonora , Sabbatini Massimo , Bruzzese Dario , Annicchiarico Petruzzelli Luigi , Pellegrino Angela , Spinelli Letizia , Esposito Roberta , Imbriaco Massimo , Feriozzi Sandro , Pisani Antonio ,   on behalf of AFFIINITY Group
Published: November 2018

Background and objectives: Progressive nephropathy is one of the main features of Fabry disease (FD). It has been supposed that an early phase, clinically silent disease occurs in childhood and adolescence and is characterized by glomerular hyperfiltration (HF). Surprisingly, although HF has been reported in several studies, its prevalence is at present unknown. The focus of our study was to determine the prevalence of HF in a cohort of patients with FD and to identify the factors associated with a high risk of HF. Methods: To address this issue, a retrospective observational study of 87 patients with genetically confirmed FD was performed. HF was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) > 130 mL/min/1.73 m2 corrected for age (> 40 years: –1 mL/min/1.73 m2/year). Results: HF occurred in 21 patients (24% of our population), and increased to 50% when only young adults were considered. Hyperfiltrating patients were younger and had lower proteinuria levels than those without HF. The prevalence of cardiovascular and other manifestations of FD was significantly lower in hyperfiltering patients. Conclusions: Our study showed a negative correlation between eGFR and age, and with proteinuria levels and the presence of cardiovascular and other manifestations of FD. These data favor the view that HF in Fabry patients could be related predominantly to a predisease state. Even in the absence of a “measured” GFR, HF should be regarded as an early marker of Fabry nephropathy, and its recognition and confirmation by true GFR seems a relevant feature to address the issue of the potential benefit of nephroprotective treatments at the early stage of Fabry nephropathy.
Novel Magnified Single-Balloon Enteroscopy Enables Observation of Jejunal White Spots Associated with Lymphangiectasia
Authors: Tominaga Kentaro , Tsuchiya Atsunori , Kawata Yuzo , Yokoyama Junji , Terai Shuji
Published: November 2018

A 59-year-old woman was diagnosed with primary intestinal lymphangiectasia (PIL), with characteristic findings on capsule enteroscopy and confirmation by histopathological examination of biopsy specimens. We viewed the abnormal jejunal mucosa using a newly developed magnifying single-balloon enteroscope (SIF-Y0007). Conventional observation showed leakage of chyle. However, using this new scope, we could see scattered white villi, representing dilated lymphatic vessels within the intestinal villi protruding from the dilated submucosal lymphoid vessels (D2–40 positive) within an edematous jejunal lesion. This report is the first to describe the white villi in a patient with PIL observed clearly using a newly developed magnifying enteroscope. Technological advancements and the accumulation of reported pathological data would further improve our understanding of the pathophysiological aspects of this disease entity, even in the jejunum.
Short-Term Progression of Diabetic Hard Exudates Monitored with High-Resolution Camera
Authors: Loganadane Prisca , Delbosc Bernard , Saleh Maher
Published: November 2018

Purpose: To assess the progression of diabetic hard exudates over an 8-week period, using a high-resolution adaptive optics camera. Design: Prospective observational study. Methods: Five eyes of three patients presenting diabetic maculopathy with hard exudates were studied. An area of clinically visible exudates was imaged sequentially using SD-OCT and high-resolution flood illumination adaptive optics for 2 months, on a weekly basis. A time-lapse video was obtained for each eye studied. Changes in terms of surface, number of free elements (foci), and central macular thickness were recorded. Results: Short-term modifications in terms of disposition, size, and number of exudates were observed. Two patterns of progression were identified: two eyes showed exudate dislocation concomitant with the regression of the underlying macular edema, with hard exudates being progressively replaced by a multitude of smaller foci. These exudates were labeled resorption exudates. In three other eyes with persistent diabetic macular edema, foci aggregated into larger exudates. Conclusion: Diabetic hard exudate changes occurred over a short period of time but were not assessable clinically. Adaptive optics was able to document these subtle changes precisely. Further studies using this imaging modality may improve our understanding of the natural history of exudates and eventually help assess the efficacy of the various treatments available such as lipid-lowering drugs and anti-VEGFs injections.
Repeated Pediatric Concussions Evoke Long-Term Oligodendrocyte and White Matter Microstructural Dysregulation Distant from the Injury
Authors: Lee Jeong Bin , Affeldt Bethann M. , Gamboa Yaritxa , Hamer Mary , Dunn Jeff F. , Pardo Andrea C. , Obenaus Andre
Published: November 2018

Concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is often accompanied by long-term behavioral and neuropsychological deficits. Emerging data suggest that these deficits can be exacerbated following repeated injuries. However, despite the overwhelming prevalence of mTBI in children due to falls and sports-related activities, the effects of mTBI on white matter (WM) structure and its development in children have not been extensively examined. Moreover, the effect of repeated mTBI (rmTBI) on developing WM has not yet been studied, despite the possibility of exacerbated outcomes with repeat injuries. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the long-term effects of single (s)mTBI and rmTBI on the WM in the pediatric brain, focusing on the anterior commissure (AC), a WM structure distant to the injury site, using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). We hypothesized that smTBI and rmTBI to the developing mouse brain would lead to abnormalities in microstructural integrity and impaired oligodendrocyte (OL) development. We used a postnatal day 14 Ascl1-CreER: ccGFP mouse closed head injury (CHI) model with a bilateral repeated injury. We demonstrate that smTBI and rmTBI differentially lead to myelin-related diffusion changes in the WM and to abnormal OL development in the AC, which are accompanied by behavioral deficits 2 months after the initial injury. Our results suggest that mTBIs elicit long-term behavioral alterations and OL-associated WM dysregulation in the developing brain. These findings warrant additional research into the development of WM and OL as key components of pediatric TBI pathology and potential therapeutic targets.
Adherence to European Polypectomy Guidelines: Retrospective Experience from a Tertiary Irish Hospital
Authors: Parihar Vikrant , Sopheno-Falco Julia , Maheshwari Pardeep , O’Moran Neil , Graziadei Vivien , O’Grady Walshe Aishling , O’Dwyer Orla , Kumar Lakshman , Fennessy Sean , Breslin Niall , Ryan Barbara M. , McNamara Deirdre
Published: November 2018

Background and Study Aim: The European guidelines for colorectal cancer screening state that snare resection should remove any polyps ≥5 mm. This study aimed to investigate if these new guidelines are adhered to in clinical practice. Patients and Methods: This study consists of patients who underwent colonoscopies in Tallaght Hospital, Dublin (AMNCH), between 2012 and 2015. The size of the polyp, the method of removal, and the subspecialty and grade of the endoscopists were all recorded. Results: 6,000 colonoscopies were reviewed and 687 (12.5%) of these patients were found to have polyps. In 655 (95%) colonoscopies, the caecum was positively identified. In all, 371 (54%) of the polyps detected were < 5 mm; resection via forceps was carried out in n405 cases (59%). Overall, 16% (n = 45) of the polyps > 5 mm underwent resection with forceps, showing that the new European guidelines are not being tightly adhered to. Conclusions: This study found an 84% compliance with polypectomy resection guidelines which is an improvement on previous studies. However, endoscopist grade significantly affected compliance and may reflect overall competency, highlighting the need for specific training in snare polypectomy techniques.
Localization of the SRY Gene on Chromosome 3 in a Patient with Azoospermia and a Complex Karyotype 45,X/46,X,i(Y)(q10)/46,XX/ 47,XX,i(Y)(q10)
Authors: Barnabas Linda C. , Sumathy Anbu , Indumathi Muthuswamy A. , Varma Thankam R. , Shetty Swathi , Kadandale Jayarama S. , Kar Bibhas
Published: November 2018

This study aimed to identify the cause of azoospermia in a 38-year-old infertile man who was referred for genetic testing. Cytogenetic evaluation was performed by G-banding, C-banding, and FISH using centromeric probes for chromosomes X and Y and showed the presence of a monocentric isochromosome Y with a complex, mosaic karyotype 45,X/46,X,i(Y)(q10)/46,XX/47,XX,i(Y)(q10). Multiplex PCR for the commonly deleted genes in the AZFa, AZFb, and AZFc regions of the Y chromosome was performed and indicated the presence of all 3 regions. Further, PCR amplification followed by DNA sequencing of the SRY gene was done, which ruled out mutations in that gene. To identify the position of the SRY gene, FISH using a locus-specific probe was used and showed that the gene had been translocated to chromosome 3. Subtelomere FISH for 3q and Yp evidenced that the subtelomeric region of the Y chromosome was found on the terminal region of 3q. The clinical symptoms of the patient can be attributed to this abnormal genotype. The importance of genetic testing in infertile patients and the need for genetic counselling to prevent the transmission of the defect are emphasized.
An Extragastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Originating from the Pancreas
Authors: Yeo Seong Jae , Cho Chang Min , Kwon Hyung Jun , Cho Seung Hyun , Kim Gab Chul , Seo An Na , Bae Han Ik
Published: November 2018

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). In fewer than 5% of cases, GIST originates primarily from outside the GIT. The occurrence of GIST originating from the pancreas is rare. Sometimes, neuroendocrine tumors should be differentiated from GISTs because of their hyperenhancing nature in radiologic images. We report a case of GIST arising in the pancreas that was confirmed by surgical resection.
A Familial Small Supernumerary Marker Chromosome 15 Associated with Cryptic Mosaicism with Two Different Additional Marker Chromosomes Derived de novo from Chromosome 9: Detailed Case Study and Implications for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Čulić Vida , Lasan-Trcić Ruzica , Liehr Thomas , Lebedev Igor N. , Pivić Maja , Pavelic Jasminka , Vulić Robert
Published: November 2018

We report a case of familial small supernumerary marker chromosome 15 in a phenotypically normal female with 4 recurrent spontaneous abortions and a healthy child. The initial karyotype showed a small, bisatellited, apparently metacentric marker chromosome, 47,XX,+idic(15)(q11.1), maternally inherited. The proband's mother was mosaic for the idic(15)(q11.1) without pregnancy loss. Reexamination of the proband's karyotype revealed cryptic mosaicism for 1 ring and 1 minute chromosome derived de novo from chromosome 9 in 2% of the metaphases. In FISH analysis, the patient's karyotype was mos 47,XX,+idic(15)(q11.1)mat[100]/49,XX,+idic(15)(q11.1)mat,+r(9;9;9;9),+der(9)dn[2]. The second spontaneous abortion had trisomy 9 (47,XX,+9); the third had mosaic trisomy 9 in 21% of the nuclei and isodicentric chromosome 15 in 36% of the nuclei (mos 48,XN,+9,+idic(15)(q11.1)/47,XN,+9/47,XN,+idic(15)(q11.1)/46,XN). The first and fourth abortions were not cytogenetically studied. The cause of the spontaneous abortions in this patient is likely the cryptic mosaicism for ring and minute chromosomes 9, and gonadal mosaicism is most probable, due to the 2 abortions.
Is Liver Ultrasound Useful as Part of the Surveillance Strategy following Potentially Curative Colorectal Cancer Resection?
Authors: Schneider James , Koullouros Michalis , Mackay Craig , Ramsay George , Parnaby Craig , Stevenson Lynn
Published: November 2018

Background: Optimal surveillance monitoring following curative resection of colorectal cancer remains unclear. Guidelines recommend computed tomography (CT)-based imaging for the initial 3 years following surgical intervention due to the high rates of local and distant recurrence. However, there is currently limited supporting evidence for this strategy. Our current follow-up practice is to offer annual interval abdominal ultrasound and abdominal/pelvis CT scans starting at 6 and 12 months with the sequence of radiological follow-up remaining at the discretion of each clinician. We aim to establish the additional diagnostic benefit of abdominal ultrasound to CT scans in colorectal cancer surveillance follow-up. Methods: All patients who underwent colorectal resection with curative intent in our region during a single year were included. Patients were detected from a prospectively collected pathology database and supplemented retrospectively with patient demographics, imaging reports, and mortality data. Results: A total of 243 patients (male n = 135, 55.6%) were included. There was a mortality rate of 31.3% over the study period. Patients who received abdominal ultrasound as their initial imaging modality (n = 64, 26.3%) were significantly older, had less severe disease, and a significantly lower mortality rate when compared to CT ­patients (n = 148, 60.9%). All patients with new hepatic disease detected by ultrasound scans had their management discussed in multi-disciplinary team meetings before their next scheduled CT. Conclusion: In an era where cross-sectional imaging of colorectal cancer is commonplace, abdominal ultrasound offers additional benefit to CT as a postoperative imaging adjunct for the detection of hepatic disease recurrence.
Granulomatous Mastitis: A Therapeutic and Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Wolfrum Angelika , Kümmel Sherko , Theuerkauf Ingo , Pelz Enrico , Reinisch Mattea
Published: November 2018

Granulomatous mastitis (GM) is a rare benign inflammatory breast disease that affects mostly women of childbearing age with a history of breastfeeding. The etiopathogenesis is still unknown; however, inflammation as the result of a reaction to trauma, metabolic or hormonal processes, autoimmunity, and an infection with Corynebacterium kroppenstedtii have all been implicated. Clinical findings are pain, mass, hyperemia, and inflammation. Because the clinical presentation can mimic infectious mastitis or inflammatory carcinoma, the disease course is often protracted. The diagnosis is made by histopathology. Biopsies show a granulomatous formation in combination with a localized infiltration of multi-nucleated giant cells, epithelioid histiocytes, and plasma cells. Ultrasound, mammography, and magnetic resonance imaging are not specific; however, ultrasound and mammography should be done to exclude other pathologies. Due to the lack of data including randomized controlled studies, the management of GM is controversial. In Western industrialized countries, most authors use a therapy regimen starting with antibiotics and corticosteroids, followed by continuous steroid therapy and surgery in patients with persisting symptoms. More data are needed to define the best therapy. The role of immunotherapy has not yet been ascertained. The implementation of a registry to collect more information on this rare disease is highly recommended.
ATP Citrate Lyase and LncRNA NONMMUT010685 Play Crucial Role in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Based on Analysis of Microarray Data
Authors: Ma Tao-tao , Huang Cheng , Ni Ying , Yang You , Li Jun
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver disease with unclear molecular mechanisms. Our study intended to identify potential long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and genes, and to determine the potential molecular mechanisms of NAFLD pathogenesis. Methods: The microarrays of GSE24031 and GSE57425 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. GSE24031 included 4 control and 4 model mice and GSE57425 included 3 control and 3 model mice on the basis of GPL1261 platform. Differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs between control and NAFLD liver tissue were calculated. Gene ontology (GO), pathway enrichment analyses, co-expression network and PPI were performed to analyze the biological roles and pathways for the differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) rats were further chosen to investigate the key protein identified based on co-expression network and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network data. Results: A total of 6 significantly up-regulated and 39 down-regulated lncRNAs, 340 up-regulated and 281 down-regulated mRNAs were identified. LncRNA-mRNA co-expression network were analyzed to show a total of 16 key lncRNAs (node degree > 10) in NAFLD samples compared to control tissues. Three key protein identified on co-expression network and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network data were verified in NASH in vivo. The protein level of ATP-citrate lyase (Acly) was significantly increased while lncNONMMUT010685 and NONMMUT050689 in NAFLD samples, whose regulator gene was x-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) and receptor-interacting protein 1 kinase (RIPK1) respectively, were gradually reduced in NASH. Conclusion: In summary, we found a set of lncRNAs and mRNAs differentially expressed in the development of NAFLD. LncRNA Ttc39aos1 and Acly, may be crucial biomarkers for NAFLD. LncRNA NONMMUT010685 and NONMMUT050689, the regulator of XBP1 gene and RIPK1 gene respectively, played important roles in the development of NAFLD.
Methyl Helicterate Inhibits Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation Through Modulation of Apoptosis and Autophagy
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Lin , Chen Zhao-Ni , Huang Quan-Fang , Bai Fa-Cheng , Nie Jin-Lan , Lu Sheng-Juan , Wei Jin-Bin , Lin Xing
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the major source of extracellular matrix (ECM). Therefore inhibiting HSC activation is considered as an effective strategy to inhibit the process of liver fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism of methyl helicterate (MH) isolated from Helicteres angustifolia on the activation of HSCs. Methods: HSC-T6 cells were treated with various concentration of MH and autophagy was inhibited by 3-Methyl adenine (3-MA) or RNA interference. Cell viability was observed by MTT assay and cell colony assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed using flow cytometry. Autophagic vacuoles were observed by transmission electron microscopy and monodansyl cadaverine (MDC) staining. Moreover, autophagy-related genes and proteins were detected using real-time PCR and Western blot assays, respectively. Results: MH significantly inhibited HSC activation, as evidenced by the inhibition of cell viability, colony formation and the expression of α-SMA and collagen I. MH caused cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase. Moreover, MH significantly induced apoptosis through regulating the mitochondria-dependent pathway and the activity of caspases. MH treatment significantly increased lysosomes and autophagosomes, and enhanced the formation of autophagic vacuoles and autophagic flux. Interestingly, inhibiting autophagy by 3-MA or RNA interference abolished the ability of MH in inhibiting HSC activation. On the other hand, induction of autophagy promoted MH-induced HSC apoptosis. Further study showed that MH-induced HSC apoptosis and autophagy was mediated by the JNK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that MH-induced HSC apoptosis and autophagy may be one of the important mechanisms for its anti-fibrosis effect.
O Legado da Partilha da Índia e Paquistão: Violência Contra Muçulmanos na Índia Pós-Colonial
Authors: Alves Mariana Faiad B.
Published: November 2018

Este artigo busca analisar a violência contra Muçulmanos na Índia como um dos principais legados da Partilha da Índia e Paquistão. O artigo irá discutir a violência religiosa em um duplo papel, como causa e consequência de decisões políticas. Serão analisadas as políticas em torno da Partilha, e o papel da violência religiosa nas decisões em curso no período. Em seguida, o artigo irá analisar a violência como ferramenta da destruição da mesquita em Ayodhya, e o massacre em Gujarat, como apelo final na corrida ao poder dos grupos extremistas hindus. Por fim, irá discorrer sobre a representação dos muçulmanos na Índia contemporânea.
Traduzindo a Metáfora da Dança em Rumi
Authors: Yunis Leandra Elena
Published: November 2018

O presente artigo apresenta uma tradução direta inédita do persa para o português de um gazal de Jalaluddin Rumi, poeta e místico persa do século XIII, fundador da Ordem dos Dervixes Rodopiantes de Konya. Nossa metodologia de análise e tradução utiliza de forma inovadora elementos de linguagem da Dança para explorar aspectos importantes da metáfora da dança na poesia sufi.
A taxonomic revision of Stibasoma Schiner, 1867 (Diptera: Tabanidae)
Authors: TURCATEL MAUREN , DE CARVALHO CLAUDIO JOSÉ BARROS , RAFAEL JOSÉ ALBERTINO
Published: November 2018

Here we revise description of the Neotropical genus Stibasoma Schiner (Diachlorini – Tabaninae), including redescription of 15 species that range from Mexico to northern Argentina: S. apicimacula Fairchild, S. aureoguttatum Kröber, S. bella Limeira de Oliveira & Rafael, S. bicolor Bigot, S. chionostigma (Osten Sacken), S. currani Philip, S. festivum (Wiedemann), S. flaviventre (Macquart), S. fulvohirtum (Wiedemann), S. giganteum (Lutz), S. leucopleurale Barretto, S. lutzi Barretto, S. panamensis Curran, S. theotaenia (Wiedemann) and S. willistoni Lutz. The taxon S. bifenestratum Philip is revalidated. Two new species are described from the Amazon: S. manauensis sp. nov. and S. ruthae sp. nov. Previously unknown males are described in S. bifenestratum, S. currani, S. festivum and S. fulvohirtum. Two subspecies are not recognised: S. festivum dyridophorum and S. flaviventre pulla. A dichotomous identification key based on external morphological characters is provided.
On new taxa and some described armoured scale insects (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) living in the galleries of the ant Melissotarsus insularis Santschi (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Madagascar
Authors: BEN-DOV YAIR
Published: November 2018

Melissoaspis n.gen. is established for two species, namely Melissoaspis fisheri n. sp. and Melissoaspis reticulata n. sp., and a further new species is also described, Morganella formicaria n. sp. all from Madagascar. All the above-mentioned scale insects were collected from galleries of the ant Melissotarsus insularis Santschi (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) on the trunk of various species of host plants in Madagascar. New data on the distribution, host plants and life history are given for Melanaspis madagascariensis Mamet, and for Morganella conspicua (Brain).
A review of the Australian millipede genus Atelomastix (Diplopoda: Spirostreptida: Iulomorphidae)
Authors: EDWARD KAREN L. , HARVEY MARK S.
Published: November 2018

A review of the Australian endemic millipede genus Atelomastix reveals the presence of 28 species, including the type species A. albanyensis Attems, A. nigrescens Attems, and 25 new species from Western Australia, as well as A. solitaria Jeekel from Victoria. All species are from the high rainfall zone of southern Australia. The new species are: A. anancita, A. attemsi, A. bamfordi, A. brennani, A. culleni, A. danksi, A. dendritica, A. ellenae, A. flavognatha, A. francesae, A. gibsoni, A. grandis, A. julianneae, A. lengae, A. longbottomi, A. mainae, A. melindae, A. montana, A. poustiei, A. priona, A. psittacina, A. rubricephala, A. sarahae, A. tigrina and A. tumula. Most species are shown to have extremely small distributions and all are classified as short-range endemic species. Most species have been collected at very few locations, occurring in discontinuous habitats such as mountain ranges, islands, granite outcrops, or fragments of wet forest.
Adverse childhood experiences in a South Australian sample of young people in detention
Authors: Malvaso Catia G , Delfabbro Paul H , Day Andrew
Published: November 2018

Empirical knowledge about the prevalence and interrelatedness of adverse childhood experiences in young people involved in youth justice systems in Australia is limited. This study examined the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences in a sample of young people who were detained in youth justice services in South Australia. It also explored how adverse childhood experiences are interrelated and their associations with violent offending. Assessment data for 2045 young people who spent time in detention between 1995 and 2012 were used. The results indicated that adverse childhood experiences were common in this population, were highly interrelated, and more prevalent among young people who had convictions for violent offences. Differences in the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences according to gender and cultural background were evident. Compared to males, females had a higher prevalence of individual adverse childhood experiences, as well as higher cumulative adverse childhood experience scores. Non-Aboriginal females had the highest prevalence for physical and sexual abuse, and household conflict, while both Aboriginal males and females reported more family criminality and substance use problems. These findings have important implications for the role of screening for adverse childhood experiences in offender populations, and the potential benefit of targeting interventions towards addressing the consequences of these traumatic experiences.
Parents’ Career Values, Adaptability, Career-Specific Parenting Behaviors, and Undergraduates’ Career Adaptability
Authors: Guan Yanjun , Wang Zhen , Gong Qing , Cai Zijun , Xu Sabrina Lingxiao , Xiang Qian , Wang Yang , Chen Sylvia Xiaohua , Hu Hanlin , Tian Lin
Published: November 2018

This study examined how Chinese parents’ career values and adaptability predict their career-specific parenting behaviors and their children’s career adaptability. We conducted a survey study with Chinese university students and their parents ( N = 264), and found support for the mediating roles of career-specific parenting behaviors in linking parents’ vocational characteristics and children’s career adaptability. Specifically, parental support is positively related to parents’ intrinsic fulfillment values, work–life balance values, and career adaptability. Moreover, parental support mediates the relationship between these variables and undergraduates’ career adaptability. Parental engagement mediates the negative effect of external compensation values and positive effect of work–life balance values on undergraduates’ career adaptability. Parental interference is negatively related to parents’ work–life balance values, and positively related to their external compensation values and career adaptability, but does not significantly predict undergraduates’ career adaptability. These findings advance current understanding of the career construction theory.