bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectra of Indu–Bala product of graphs and some new pairs of cospectral graphs
Authors: Patil Shreekant , Mathapati Mallikarjun
Published: August 2019

Recently Indulal and Balakrishnan [Distance spectrum of Indu–Bala product of graphs, AKCE Int. J. Graph Comb. 13 (2016) 230–234] put forward a new graph operation, namely, the Indu–Bala product [Formula: see text] of graphs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and it is obtained from two disjoint copies of the join [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] by joining the corresponding vertices in the two copies of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we obtain the adjacency spectra, the Laplacian spectra and the signless Laplacian spectra of [Formula: see text] in terms of the corresponding spectra of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. As applications, these results enable us to construct infinitely many pairs of respective cospectral graphs. Further, the Laplacian spectra enable us to get the formulas of the number of spanning trees and Kirchhoff index of [Formula: see text] in terms of the Laplacian spectra of regular graphs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Advanced Stereo Seam Carving by Considering Occlusions on Both Sides
Authors: Gong Yongyi , Li Shangru , Wattanachote Kanoksak , Luo Xiaonan
Published: August 2019

Stereo image retargeting plays a significant role in the field of image processing, which aims at making major objects as prominent as possible when the resolution of an image is changed, including maintaining disparity and depth information at the same time. Some seam carving methods are proposed to preserve the geometric consistency of the images. However, the regions of occlusion on both sides are not considered properly. In this article, we propose a solution to solve this problem. A new strategy of seams finding is designed by considering occluded and occluding regions on both of the input images, and leaving geometric consistency in both images intact. We also introduced the method of line segment detection and superpixel segmentation to further improve the quality of the images. Imaging effects are optimized in the process and visual comfort, which is also influenced by other factors, can be boosted as well.
Cell Size Control in Plants
Authors: D'Ario Marco , Sablowski Robert
Published: August 2019

The genetic control of the characteristic cell sizes of different species and tissues is a long-standing enigma. Plants are convenient for studying this question in a multicellular context, as their cells do not move and are easily tracked and measured from organ initiation in the meristems to subsequent morphogenesis and differentiation. In this article, we discuss cell size control in plants compared with other organisms. As seen from yeast cells to mammalian cells, size homeostasis is maintained cell autonomously in the shoot meristem. In developing organs, vacuolization contributes to cell size heterogeneity and may resolve conflicts between growth control at the cellular and organ levels. Molecular mechanisms for cell size control have implications for how cell size responds to changes in ploidy, which are particularly important in plant development and evolution. We also discuss comparatively the functional consequences of cell size and their potential repercussions at higher scales, including genome evolution.
N-Acetyltransferase 1 Knockout Elevates Acetyl Coenzyme A Levels and Reduces Anchorage-Independent Growth in Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Stepp Marcus W. , Salazar-González Raúl A. , Hong Kyung U. , Doll Mark A. , Hein David W.
Published: August 2019

Elevated expression of N-acetyltransferase 1 (NAT1) is associated with invasive and lobular breast carcinomas as well as with bone metastasis following an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. We investigated the effect of NAT1 gene deletion in three different human breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and ZR-75-1. Human NAT1 was knocked out using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and two different guide RNAs. None of the NAT1 knockout (KO) cell lines exhibited detectable NAT1 activity when measured using its selective substrate p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Endogenous acetyl coenzyme A levels (cofactor for acetylation pathways) in NAT1 KO cell lines were significantly elevated in the MDA-MB-231 (p<0.001) and MCF-7 (p=0.0127) but not the ZR-75-1 (p>0.05). Although the effects of NAT1 KO on cell-doubling time were inconsistent across the three breast cancer cell lines, the ability of the NAT1 KO cell lines to form anchorage-independent colonies in soft agar was dramatically and consistently reduced in each of the breast cancer cell lines. The NAT1 KO clones for MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and ZR-75-1 had a reduction greater than 20-, 6-, and 7- folds in anchorage-independent cell growth, respectively, compared to their parental cell lines (p<0.0001, p<0.0001, and p<0.05, respectively). The results indicate that NAT1 may be an important regulator of cellular acetyl coenzyme A levels and strongly suggest that elevated NAT1 expression in breast cancers contribute to their anchorage-independent growth properties and ultimately metastatic potential.
Coherent Elastic Neutrino-Nucleus Scattering as a Precision Test for the Standard Model and Beyond: The COHERENT Proposal Case
Authors: Miranda O. G. , Sanchez Garcia G. , Sanders O.
Published: August 2019

Several experimental proposals expect to confirm the recent measurement of the coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEvNS). Motivated in particular by the next generation experiments of the COHERENT collaboration, we study their sensitivity to different tests of the Standard Model and beyond. We analyze the resolution that can be achieved by each future proposed detector in the measurement of the weak mixing angle; we also perform a similar analysis in the context of Nonstandard Interaction (NSI) and in the case of oscillations into a sterile neutrino state. We show that future perspectives are interesting for these types of new physics searches.
Pro-Con Debate: Nitrous Oxide for Labor Analgesia
Authors: Vallejo Manuel C. , Zakowski Mark I.
Published: August 2019

This Pro-Con debate will provide the practitioner with an evidence-based knowledge approach to assist the clinician in determining whether to employ (Pro) or not to employ (Con) this technique in the obstetrical suite for labor analgesia. Nitrous oxide has been used safely in dentistry and medicine for many centuries. However, accumulating preclinical and clinical evidence increasingly suggests previously unrecognized adverse maternal and fetal effects of nitrous oxide, which warrants reconsideration of its use in pregnant women and a more detailed informed consent. Nitrous oxide is associated with metabolic, oxidative, genotoxic, and transgenerational epigenetic effects in animals and humans that may warrant limiting its usefulness in labor. This debate will discuss and review the clinical uses, advantages, and disadvantages of nitrous oxide on occupational effects of nitrous oxide exposure, neuroapoptosis, FDA warning on inhalational anesthetics and the developing brain, research limitations, occupational exposure safety limits, effects on global warming, and potential for diversion.
Using Burstiness for Network Applications Classification
Authors: Oudah Hussein , Ghita Bogdan , Bakhshi Taimur , Alruban Abdulrahman , Walker David J.
Published: August 2019

Network traffic classification is a vital task for service operators, network engineers, and security specialists to manage network traffic, design networks, and detect threats. Identifying the type/name of applications that generate traffic is a challenging task as encrypting traffic becomes the norm for Internet communication. Therefore, relying on conventional techniques such as deep packet inspection (DPI) or port numbers is not efficient anymore. This paper proposes a novel flow statistical-based set of features that may be used for classifying applications by leveraging machine learning algorithms to yield high accuracy in identifying the type of applications that generate the traffic. The proposed features compute different timings between packets and flows. This work utilises tcptrace to extract features based on traffic burstiness and periods of inactivity (idle time) for the analysed traffic, followed by the C5.0 algorithm for determining the applications that generated it. The evaluation tests performed on a set of real, uncontrolled traffic, indicated that the method has an accuracy of 79% in identifying the correct network application.
Extracervical Approaches to Thyroid Surgery: Evolution and Review
Authors: Sephton B. M.
Published: August 2019

Over the last two decades, advances and adaptation of technology have led to a variety of endoscopic thyroidectomy procedures being performed. The drive for extracervical procedures has been predominantly influenced by the desire for improved cosmesis via avoidance of visible scars. Extracervical techniques have shown considerable evolution with approaches that have included transaxillary, breast, postauricular, and transoral routes. There has been a varied evidence base for each of these approaches with regard to technical feasibility, safety, patient satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness. In recent years, robotic-assisted thyroid surgery has gained increased popularity worldwide with the introduction of the da Vinci Robot. Reports of improved postoperative outcomes and patient satisfaction have been in contrast to the financial burden, longer operative time, and increased training required which, to date, have limited widespread application. The aim of this review is to describe the evolution of extracervical procedures including surgical approaches, outcomes, advantages, and disadvantages. Consideration is also given to the future direction of extracervical thyroid surgery with regard to the safety, feasibility, and application of robotic systems.
Optimization and Identification of Antioxidant Peptide from Underutilized Dunaliella salina Protein: Extraction, In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion, and Fractionation
Authors: Xia Enqin , Zhai Lu , Huang Zhigang , Liang Hairong , Yang Hui , Song Gang , Li Weiqiao , Tang Huanwen
Published: August 2019

DPPH• scavenging peptides (<3kDa) from underutilized Dunaliella salina protein were obtained by the following successive treatment, i.e., ultrasound extraction, simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion hydrolyzation, and membrane ultrafiltration classification. The optimal condition for ultrasound-assisted extraction was an ultrasound wave with 800 W of power treating a mixture of 60 mL of 1.0 mol L−1 NaOH and 2 g algae powder for 15 min. A high correlation (r=0.8146) between DPPH• scavenging activity and yield of the intact peptides showed their antioxidant capacity. Simulated in vitro digestion assay resulted in excellent DPPH• scavenging activity of the total peptide, amounting to (86.5 ± 10.1)%, comparing with the nondigestion samples at (46.8 ± 6.5)%. After fractionation, the 500-1000 Da fraction exhibited the highest DPPH• scavenging activity (81.2 ± 4.0)%, increasing 1.5 times due to digestion. Then, the 500-1000 Da fraction was analyzed by RPLC-Q Exactive HF mass spectrometer, and 4 novel peptides, i.e., Ile-Leu-Thr-Lys-Ala-Ala-Ile-Glu-Gly-Lys, Ile-Ile-Tyr-Phe-Gln-Gly-Lys, Asn-Asp-Pro-Ser-Thr-Val-Lys, and Thr-Val-Arg-Pro-Pro-Gln-Arg, were identified. From these amino acid sequences, hydrophobic residues accounted for 56%, which indicated their high antioxidant property. The results indicated that underutilized protein of Dunaliella salina could be a potential source of antioxidative peptides through simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion.
Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of Current Literature
Authors: Jaber Johnny F. , Standley Matthew , Reddy Raju
Published: August 2019

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in pregnancy is associated with high fetal mortality rates. A small percentage of DKA occurs in the absence of high glucose levels seen in traditional DKA. Prompt recognition and management is crucial. We report a case of a 30-year-old pregnant woman with type 1 diabetes mellitus admitted with euglycemic DKA (blood glucose <200 mg/dL). Initial laboratory testing revealed a severe anion gap acidosis with pH 7.11, anion gap 23, elevated β-hydroxybutyric acid of 9.60 mmol/L, and a blood glucose of 183 mg/dL—surprisingly low given her severe acidosis. The ketoacidosis persisted despite high doses of glucose and insulin infusions. Due to nonresolving acidosis, her hospital course was complicated by spontaneous intrauterine fetal demise. Euglycemia and severe acidosis continued to persist until delivery of fetus and placenta occurred. It was observed that the insulin sensitivity dramatically increased after delivery of fetus and placenta leading to rapid correction of ketoacidosis. This case highlights that severe ketonemia can occur despite the absence of severely elevated glucose levels. We discuss the mechanism that leads to this pathophysiologic state and summarize previously published case reports about euglycemic DKA in pregnancy.
Identification of Recurrent ActivatingHER2Mutations in Primary Canine Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lorch Gwendolen , Sivaprakasam Karthigayini , Zismann Victoria , Perdigones Nieves , Contente-Cuomo Tania , Nazareno Alexandra , Facista Salvatore , Wong Shukmei , Drenner Kevin , Liang Winnie S. , Amann Joseph M. , Sinicropi-Yao Sara L. , Koenig Michael J. , La Perle Krista , Whitsett Timothy G. , Murtaza Muhammed , Trent Jeffrey M. , Carbone David P. , Hendricks William P.D.
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

Naturally occurring primary canine lung cancers share clinicopathologic features with human lung cancers in never-smokers, but the genetic underpinnings of canine lung cancer are unknown. We have charted the genomic landscape of canine lung cancer and performed functional characterization of novel, recurrent HER2 (ERBB2) mutations occurring in canine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (cPAC).

Experimental Design:

We performed multiplatform genomic sequencing of 88 primary canine lung tumors or cell lines. Additionally, in cPAC cell lines, we performed functional characterization of HER2 signaling and evaluated mutation-dependent HER2 inhibitor drug dose-response.

Results:

We discovered somatic, coding HER2 point mutations in 38% of cPACs (28/74), but none in adenosquamous (cPASC, 0/11) or squamous cell (cPSCC, 0/3) carcinomas. The majority (93%) of HER2 mutations were hotspot V659E transmembrane domain (TMD) mutations comparable to activating mutations at this same site in human cancer. Other HER2 mutations were located in the extracellular domain and TMD. HER2V659E was detected in the plasma of 33% (2/6) of dogs with localized HER2V659E tumors. HER2V659E cPAC cell lines displayed constitutive phosphorylation of AKT and significantly higher sensitivity to the HER2 inhibitors lapatinib and neratinib relative to HER2-wild-type cell lines (IC50 < 200 nmol/L in HER2V659E vs. IC50 > 2,500 nmol/L in HER2WT).

Conclusions:

This study creates a foundation for molecular understanding of and drug development for canine lung cancer. These data also establish molecular contexts for comparative studies in dogs and humans of low mutation burden, never-smoker lung cancer, and mutant HER2 function and inhibition.
Enhanced SLAMF7 Homotypic Interactions by Elotuzumab Improves NK Cell Killing of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Pazina Tatiana , James Ashley M. , Colby Kimberly B. , Yang Yibin , Gale Andrew , Jhatakia Amy , Kearney Alper Y. , Graziano Robert F. , Bezman Natalie A. , Robbins Michael D. , Cohen Adam D. , Campbell Kerry S.
Published: August 2019

Elotuzumab (Elo) is an IgG1 monoclonal antibody targeting SLAMF7 (CS1, CRACC, and CD319), which is highly expressed on multiple myeloma (MM) cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and subsets of other leukocytes. By engaging with FcγRIIIA (CD16), Elo promotes potent NK cell–mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and macrophage-mediated antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP) toward SLAMF7+ MM tumor cells. Relapsed/refractory MM patients treated with the combination of Elo, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone have improved progression-free survival. We previously showed that Elo enhances NK cell activity via a costimulation mechanism, independent of CD16 binding. Here, we further studied the effect of Elo on cytotoxicity of CD16-negative NK-92 cells. Elo, but not other SLAMF7 antibodies, uniquely enhanced cytotoxicity mediated by CD16-negative NK-92 cells toward SLAMF7+ target cells. Furthermore, this CD16-independent enhancement of cytotoxicity required expression of SLAMF7 containing the full cytoplasmic domain in the NK cells, implicating costimulatory signaling. The CD16-independent costimulation by Elo was associated with increased expression of NKG2D, ICAM-1, and activated LFA-1 on NK cells, and enhanced cytotoxicity was partially reduced by NKG2D blocking antibodies. In addition, an Fc mutant form of Elo that cannot bind CD16 promoted cytotoxicity of SLAMF7+ target cells by NK cells from most healthy donors, especially if previously cultured in IL2. We conclude that in addition to promoting NK cell–mediated ADCC (CD16-dependent) responses, Elo promoted SLAMF7–SLAMF7 interactions in a CD16-independent manner to enhance NK cytotoxicity toward MM cells.
L’ennui chez Madame Bovary: justification ou condamnation?
Authors: Paixão Grace Alves da , Amorim Anaximandro Oliveira Santos
Published: August 2019

Ce travail a pour but de montrer comment l’ennui chez le personnage Madame Bovary (du roman éponyme) fut le déclencheur du scandale et par conséquent du procès judiciaire de Gustave Flaubert, auteur du roman. Ainsi, on propose un article divisé en quatre parties : une où l’on parle de l’auteur ; une où l’on parle de l’ouvrage ; une où l’on parle du procès à proprement parler (et comment le langage y fut question d’importance) ; et une dernière où l’on analyse la question même de l’ennui grâce à des passages du roman. Pour cela, on adopte une méthodologie de révision bibliographique ayant comme base le livre Madame Bovary no tribunal do júri : do crime ao castigo ? (2011), de la professeure Telma Boudou.
Characterization of the CACNA1C-R518C Missense Mutation in the Pathobiology of Long-QT Syndrome Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Cardiomyocytes Shows Action Potential Prolongation and L-Type Calcium Channel Perturbation
Authors: Estes Steven I. , Ye Dan , Zhou Wei , Dotzler Steven M. , Tester David J. , Bos J. Martijn , Kim C.S. John , Ackerman Michael J.
Published: August 2019

Background:

The
CACNA1C
-encoded cardiac L-type calcium channel (Cav1.2) is essential for cardiocyte action potential duration (APD). We previously reported the CACNA1C-p.R518C variant associated with prolonged QT intervals, cardiomyopathy, and sudden cardiac death in several pedigrees.

Methods:

To characterize a patient-derived human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocyte (hiPSC-CM) CACNA1C-p.R518C model, CACNA1C-p.R518C hiPSC-CMs were generated from a 13-year-old man (QTc, >480 ms) with a family history of sudden cardiac death. An isogenic hiPSC-CM gene-corrected control was created using CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat–associated 9). APD and calcium handling were assessed by live cell imaging with Arclight voltage and Fluo-4 calcium indicators, respectively. The APD and L-type calcium channel biophysical properties were further assessed by whole-cell patch clamp technique.

Results:

The Bazett formula-corrected, Arclight-measured APD
90
of CACNA1C-p.R518C hiPSC-CMs was significantly longer (622±11 ms; n=92) than the isogenic control hiPSC-CMs (453±5 ms; n=62;
P
<0.0001). Patch clamp assessment of CACNA1C-p.R518C hiPSC-CMs paced at 1 Hz confirmed a prolonged APD
90
(689±29 ms; n=10) compared with the patient’s isogenic control hiPSC-CMs (434±30 ms; n=8;
P
<0.05). Fluo-4–measured calcium transient decay time suggested calcium mishandling in CACNA1C-p.R518C. Patch clamp analysis revealed increased L-type calcium channel window current, slow decay time at various voltages, and increased late calcium current for CACNA1C-p.R518C hiPSC-CMs when compared with isogenic control hiPSC-CMs.

Conclusions:

Using patient-specific hiPSC-CM mutant and isogenic control lines, we demonstrate that the CACNA1C-p.R518C variant is the self-sufficient, monogenetic substrate for the patient’s long-QT syndrome phenotype. These data further bolster the conclusion that
CACNA1C
is a bona fide, definite evidence long-QT syndrome susceptibility gene.
Trace Minerals, Heavy Metals, and Preeclampsia: Findings from the Boston Birth Cohort
Authors: Liu Tiange , Zhang Mingyu , Guallar Eliseo , Wang Guoying , Hong Xiumei , Wang Xiaobin , Mueller Noel T.
Published: August 2019

Background

Preeclampsia is a leading contributor to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. In mice experiments, manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se) are protective whereas cadmium (Cd) is promotive for preeclampsia. Epidemiologic findings on these chemical elements have been inconsistent. To confirm experimental findings in mice, we examined associations of trace minerals (Mn and Se) and heavy metals (Cd, lead [Pb], and mercury [Hg]) with preeclampsia in a birth cohort.

Methods and Results

A total of 1274 women from the Boston Birth Cohort (enrolled since 1998) had complete data on the exposures and outcome. We measured Mn, Se, Cd, Pb, and Hg from red blood cells collected within 24 to 72 hours after delivery. We ascertained preeclampsia diagnosis from medical records. We used Poisson regression with robust variance models to estimate prevalence ratios (
PR
s) and 95%
CI
s. A total of 115 (9.0%) women developed preeclampsia. We observed evidence of a dose–response trend for Mn (
P
for trend<0.001) and to some extent for Cd (
P
for trend=0.009) quintiles. After multivariable adjustment, a 1
SD
increment in Mn was associated with 32% lower risk of developing preeclampsia (
PR
=0.68; 95%
CI
, 0.54–0.86), whereas a 1
SD
increment in Cd was associated with 15% higher risk of preeclampsia (
PR
=1.15; 95%
CI
, 0.98–1.36). Null associations were observed for Se, Pb, and Hg.

Conclusions

Findings from our cohort, consistent with evidence from mice experiments and human studies, indicate that women with lower blood concentration of Mn or higher Cd are more likely to develop preeclampsia.
Fluoxetine and Fractures After Stroke
Authors: Dennis Martin , Forbes John , Graham Catriona , Hackett Maree L. , Hankey Graeme J. , House Allan , Lewis Steff , Lundström Erik , Sandercock Peter , Mead Gillian ,   on behalf of the FOCUS Trial Collaboration
Published: August 2019

Background and Purpose—

The FOCUS trial (Fluoxetine or Control Under Supervision) showed that fluoxetine did not improve modified Rankin Scale scores (mRS) but increased the risk of fractures. We aimed to describe the fractures, their impact on mRS and factors associated with fracture risk.

Methods—

A United Kingdom, multicenter, parallel-group, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Patients ≥18 years with a clinical stroke and persisting deficit assessed 2 to 15 days after onset were eligible. Consenting patients were allocated fluoxetine 20 mg or matching placebo for 6 months. The primary outcome was the mRS at 6 months and secondary outcomes included fractures.

Results—

Sixty-five of 3127 (2.1%) patients had 67 fractures within 6 months of randomization; 43 assigned fluoxetine and 22 placebo. Fifty-nine (90.8%) had fallen and 26 (40%) had fractured their neck of femur. The effect of fluoxetine on mRS (common odds ratio =0.951) was not significantly altered by excluding fracture patients (common odds ratio =0.961). Cox proportional hazards modeling showed that only age >70 year (hazard ratio =1.97; 95% CI, 1.13–3.45;
P
=0.017), female sex (hazard ratio =2.13; 95% CI, 1.29–3.51;
P
=0.003), and fluoxetine (hazard ratio =2.00; 95% CI, 1.20–3.34;
P
=0.008) were independently associated with fractures.

Conclusions—

Most fractures resulted from falls. Although many fractures were serious, and likely to impair patients’ function, the increased fracture risk did not explain the lack of observed effect of fluoxetine on mRS. Only increasing age, female sex, and fluoxetine were independent predictors of fractures.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN83290762.
FLORISTIC CATALOGUE OF USEFUL PLANTS FROM A SCARCELY CONTACTED KICHWA INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY IN THE ECUADORIAN AMAZON (PAKAYAKU, PASTAZA, ECUADOR)

Authors: LUZURIAGA-QUICHIMBO CARMEN X. , CERÓN-MARTÍNEZ CARLOS E. , BLANCO-SALAS JOSÉ , RUIZ-TÉLLEZ TRINIDAD , GARCÍA PEDRO ESCOBAR
Published: August 2019

Pakayaku is a scarcely contacted community of Kichwa indigenous people situated in the banks of river Bobonaza (Pastaza, Ecuador) at the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazonia. In this paper we present a catalogue of 250 taxa of useful vascular plants belonging to 81 families from the Pakayaku ancestral territories, a so far unexplored area. 126 taxa are first citations for the Bobonaza valley, 22 new for Pastaza province, the largest administrative province of the country, and 1, Pouteria manaosensis, is cited for the first time for Ecuador. In total, approximately 60% of the catalogue consists of new citations.
A new species of Petunia (Solanaceae) from Corrientes, Argentina

Authors: GREPPI JULIÁN ALEJANDRO , HAGIWARA JUAN CARLOS , STEHMANN JOÃO RENATO
Published: August 2019

We describe and illustrate a new species of Petunia, P. correntina, from southwestern Corrientes, Argentina, in southern South America. The species has funnel-form corolla with whitish-green tube and purple lobes, apex of longer filaments nearly straight, apex of medium filaments curved laterally and opposite each other, connivent anthers, bluish pollen, stigma located between anthers of the large and medium stamens and inflexed pedicels in fruiting stage. This suit of characters is unique into the genus. Few populations are known, inhabiting sandy soils of the Paraná basin. A key to the Argentinian species of Petunia with purple corolla is given.
Lectotypifications of 10 species of Pteris (Pteridaceae) from India

Authors: DAS PIU , MAZUMDAR JAIDEEP
Published: August 2019

Pteris is the largest genus of the family Pteridaceae in India. Ambiguities persist about statuses of type specimens of some species of Pteris in India. Protologues and original material were consulted to provide unambiguous applications of names. As a result, ten species of Pteris are lectotypified here.
Corrections of some errors in the paper "A review of the Lecithoceridae (Lepidoptera: Gelechioidea) of southern Africa, based on type specimens deposited in the Ditsong National Museum of Natural History (TMSA), with descriptions of three new species"
Authors: PARK KYU-TEK , PRINS WILLY DE
Published: August 2019

N/A
The Rhyacophila fasciata Group in Greece: Rhyacophila kykladica Malicky & Sipahiler 1993 (stat. prom.) (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae). Morphological description, genetic and ecological features
Authors: VALLADOLID MARIA , KARAOUZAS IOANNIS , ARAUZO MERCEDES , DORDA BEATRIZ A. , REY ISABEL
Published: August 2019

The morphology of the different stages (larva, pupa, male, and female) of Rhyacophila fasciata kykladica Malicky & Sipahiler 1993 was examined as a basis for the description of the taxon. Morphological data were supplemented by molecular analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (mtCOI), which were compared with samples of the nominate subspecies Rhyacophila fasciata fasciata Hagen 1859, as well as with other new species in this group, Rhyacophila denticulata McLachlan 1879 and Rhyacophila sociata Navás 1916. Our results revealed genetic differences between all the taxa; therefore, a change of taxonomic status of R. fasciata kykladica to R. kykladica (stat. prom.) is proposed.
The New Stand-Alone Surface Analysis at ECMWF: Implications for Land–Atmosphere DA Coupling
Authors: Fairbairn David , de Rosnay Patricia , Browne Philip A.
Published: August 2019

This article presents the “screen-level and surface analysis only” (SSA) system at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). SSA is a simplification of the operational land–atmosphere weakly coupled data assimilation (WCDA). The goal of SSA is to provide 1) efficient research into land surface developments in NWP and 2) land reanalyses with land–atmosphere coupling. SSA maintains a coupled forecast model between assimilation cycles, but the atmospheric analysis is not performed; rather, it is forced from an archived analysis. Hence, SSA is much faster than WCDA, although it lacks feedback between the land and atmospheric analyses. A global sensitivity analysis was performed over one year to compare the WCDA and SSA systems. Prescribed proxy 2-m temperature/humidity screen-level observation errors were approximately doubled in the soil moisture data assimilation, thereby reducing the average size of the root-zone soil moisture analysis increments by about 60%. The systematic impact of these changes on the WCDA surface and near-surface atmospheric dynamics was effectively captured by SSA, although the short-term impact was underestimated. Importantly, the SSA forecast verification scores accurately reflected those of WCDA: atmospheric 1–10-day temperature/humidity forecasts were degraded in the tropics and lower midlatitudes up to about 700 hPa. The soil moisture analysis performance was not significantly impacted. These results endorse SSA as an NWP research tool and confirm the role of assimilating proxy screen-level observations in the soil moisture analysis to improve weather forecasts. Appropriate use and limitations of SSA are considered.
Semiannual Variability of Middepth Zonal Currents along 5°N in the Eastern Indian Ocean: Characteristics and Causes
Authors: Huang Ke , Wang Dongxiao , Han Weiqing , Feng Ming , Chen Gengxin , Wang Weiqiang , Chen Ju , Li Jian
Published: August 2019

Four-year (2014–17) zonal current data observed by a mooring at (5°N, 90.5°E) in the eastern Indian Ocean show a strong semiannual cycle in the middepth (~1200 m) with distinct vertical structure. This pronounced middepth semiannual variability, however, is inconsistent with the local wind forcing, which shows a predominant annual cycle. The underlying causes for this unique middepth variability along 5°N were elucidated with the addition of a reanalysis product and a continuously stratified linear ocean model. The results suggest that the observed seasonal variability in the middepth zonal flow at 5°N is primarily caused by boundary-reflected Rossby waves forced by the remote semiannual winds along the equator. Contribution from the locally wind-forced Rossby waves is much less. The theoretical Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin ray paths further verify that the strong semiannual variability of the middepth signals over a moored region in the eastern Indian Ocean is largely a manifestation of the steep angles of propagating energy of the long Rossby waves at semiannual time scale. The annual signals are only significant in the upper and western sections (75°–80°E) as a result of the smooth trajectories of Rossby waves forced by local annual winds. Further analysis reveals that the middepth zonal currents along 5°N are expected to be associated with equatorial symmetric Rossby waves at semiannual period. Consequently, similar zonal flows should also exist in the middepth near 5°S.
Vaping Expectancies: A Qualitative Study among Young Adult Nonusers, Smokers, Vapers, and Dual Users
Authors: Harrell Paul T , Brandon Thomas H , England Kelli J , Barnett Tracey E , Brockenberry Laurel O , Simmons Vani N , Quinn Gwendolyn P
Published: August 2019

Background:

“Expectancies,” or beliefs about outcomes, robustly correlate with and predict several behaviors including electronic nicotine delivery system (“e-cigarette”) use. However, there is limited qualitative research available regarding relevant e-cigarette vaping expectancies.

Objectives:

The present study used a qualitative approach to derive and refine e-cigarette expectancy themes among young adults.

Methods:

We conducted 12 focus groups and two individual interviews with young adult nonusers, e-cigarette vapers, cigarette smokers, and dual users to assess beliefs about the effects of e-cigarettes. After a series of open-ended questions, follow-up questions assessed reactions to domains previously examined in expectancy measures for cigarette smoking and e-cigarette vaping. The constant comparative method was used to derive themes from transcripts.

Results:

Four main themes ( Positive Reinforcement, Social Benefits, Negative Affect Reduction, Negative Consequences) emerged from the results. Each theme contained three associated subthemes ( Positive Reinforcement: Sensorimotor Experiences, Taste, Stimulation; Social Benefits: Social Facilitation, Influence on Others, Convenience; Negative Affect Reduction: Stress Reduction, Appetite Reduction, Boredom Reduction; and Negative Consequences: Health Risks, Addiction, Secondhand Effects).

Conclusions/importance:

Previously identified smoking expectancies appear relevant for young adult vaping, with some notable refinements. Positive reinforcement aspects encompassed aerosol clouds, vaping tricks, and unique flavors. Social benefits included influencing others via social media and competitive activity, as well as the convenience of use in a variety of places. Negative affect reduction was controversial among user groups, but vaping was seen as more interesting than smoking and thus more effective at boredom reduction. Young adults were uncertain regarding negative consequences, but appreciated a potential for secondhand effects. Measure refinement via qualitative research and future field testing can enhance our understanding of this relatively new behavior, supporting tobacco control surveillance, marketing/labeling regulations, and counter-advertising development/evaluation.
Collective reflexivity in social marketing through ethnographic film-making: The Yolngu story of tobacco in Yirrkala, Australia
Authors: Kariippanon Kishan , Gordon Ross , Jayasinghe Laknath , Gurruwiwi Glen
Published: August 2019

This article aims to extend the concept of collective reflexivity into marketing theory. We also identify the potential of ethnographic film-making as an approach for fostering collective reflexivity in social marketing. We focus on the making of an ethnographic film called Ngarali: The Tobacco Story of Arnhem Land, arguing that collective reflexivity is an important theoretical concept and practical objective in social marketing that can help address issues around creating social ties and social identity and of sharing metaphoric meaning. Conceptually, we argue that collective reflexivity encourages us to rethink reflexivity in social marketing and consumer research through a relational perspective. Furthermore, we extend current conceptualisations of collective reflexivity by identifying how sharing metaphoric meaning can act as a vehicle for its occurrence. We argue that facilitating collective reflexivity through ethnographic film-making can offer a more culturally respectful approach to social marketing.
Issues in Insolvency of Enterprise Groups
Authors: Garg Risham
Published: August 2019

Insolvency of enterprise groups has long remained an enigmatic and untouched issue in the realm of international insolvency law. Recently, the Working Group V of United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL WG V) has taken up the onerous task to fill this void and to draft an instrument/model law to govern international aspects of insolvency resolution of enterprise groups (two or more enterprises that are interconnected by control or significant ownership)2 including obligations of directors of enterprise group companies for acts done in the ‘twilight zone’. This article attempts to introduce and outline certain key issues relating to insolvency resolution of enterprise group companies and discuss a few of them, reserving a comprehensive discussion shared in subsequent papers.
Efficacy and safety of dihydroartemisinin–piperaquine for treatment of Plasmodium falciparum uncomplicated malaria in adult patients on antiretroviral therapy in Malawi and Mozambique: an open label non-randomized interventional trial
Authors: Sevene Esperança , Banda Clifford G. , Mukaka Mavuto , Maculuve Sonia , Macuacua Salésio , Vala Anifa , Piqueras Mireia , Kalilani-Phiri Linda , Mallewa Jane , Terlouw Dianne J. , Khoo Saye H. , Lalloo David G. , Mwapasa Victor
Published: August 2019

Background

HIV-infected individuals on antiretroviral therapy (ART) require treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) when infected with malaria. Dihydroartemisinin–piperaquine (DPQ) is recommended for treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria, but its efficacy and safety has not been evaluated in HIV-infected individuals on ART, among whom drug–drug interactions are expected. Day-42 adequate clinical and parasitological response (ACPR) and incidence of adverse events were assessed in HIV-infected individuals on non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based ART (efavirenz and nevirapine) with uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria treated with dihydroartemisinin–piperaquine.

Methods

An open label single arm clinical trial was conducted in Malawi (Blantyre and Chikhwawa districts) and Mozambique (Manhiça district) involving patients aged 15–65 years with uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria who were on efavirenz-based or nevirapine-based ART. They received a directly-observed 3-day standard treatment of DPQ and were followed up until day 63 for malaria infection and adverse events. Day-42 PCR-corrected-ACPRs (95% confidence interval [CI]) were calculated for the intention-to-treat (ITT) population.

Results

The study enrolled 160 and 61 patients on efavirenz and nevirapine-based ART, with a baseline geometric mean (95% CI) parasite density of 2681 (1964–3661) and 9819 (6606–14,593) parasites/µL, respectively. The day-42 PCR-corrected ACPR (95% CI) was 99.4% (95.6–99.9%) in the efavirenz group and 100% in the nevirapine group. Serious adverse events occurred in 5.0% (8/160) and 3.3% (2/61) of the participants in the efavirenz and nevirapine group, respectively, but none were definitively attributable to DPQ. Cases of prolonged QT interval (> 60 ms from baseline) occurred in 31.2% (48/154) and 13.3% (8/60) of the patients on the efavirenz and nevirapine ART groups, respectively. These were not clinically significant and resolved spontaneously over time. As this study was not designed to compare the efficacy and safety of DPQ in the two ART groups, no formal statistical comparisons were made between the two ART groups.

Conclusions

DPQ was highly efficacious and safe for the treatment of malaria in HIV-infected patients concurrently taking efavirenz- or nevirapine-based ART, despite known pharmacokinetic interactions between dihydroartemisinin–piperaquine and efavirenz- or nevirapine-based ART regimens.

Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR): PACTR201311000659400. Registered on 4 October 2013, https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/Search.aspx
Concordance of Patient and Caregiver Reports on the Quality of Colorectal Cancer Care
Authors: Havyer Rachel D. , van Ryn Michelle , Wilson Patrick M. , Bangerter Lauren R. , Griffin Joan M.
Published: August 2019

PURPOSE:

We aimed to better understand how similarly patients with colorectal cancer and caregivers view care quality and to assess factors that may influence concordance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We conducted a secondary analysis of paired patient and caregiver quality ratings of colorectal cancer care in three specific domains: surgery, chemotherapy overall, and chemotherapy nursing. Agreement was assessed with difference scores, concordance with Gwet second-order agreement statistics (AC2), and variation in agreement with stratified analyses. We examined whether the care experiences of patients and caregivers were associated with top-box (most-positive) ratings and examined variations in concordance on the basis of the presence of a top-box score.

RESULTS:

Four hundred seventeen patient-caregiver dyads completed the surveys. Quality-of-care ratings were positively skewed, with most dyads indicating top-box ratings. Patient and caregiver care experiences were highly associated with top-box ratings. Overall patient-caregiver concordance was very high for all three care domains (surgery: AC2, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.83 to 0.90]; chemotherapy overall: AC2, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.79 to 0.88]; chemotherapy nursing: AC2, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.87 to 0.94]). Stratified analyses of patient and caregiver characteristics did not identify any patterns that consistently affected concordance. The concordance statistic significantly decreased for all three outcomes ( P < .001), however, when the patient or caregiver assessed quality as anything other than top box.

CONCLUSION:

Caregiver and patient reports on care quality were highly concordant for top-box care and did not vary with patient or caregiver factors. Additional exploration is needed to identify reasons for increased variability when the quality scores were less than a top-box response.
Proton therapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Gjyshi Olsi , Liao Zhongxing
Published: August 2019

Radiation therapy is an essential component of treatment for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) but can be technically challenging because of the proximity of lung tumors to nearby critical organs or structures. The most effective strategy for reducing radiation-induced toxicity is to reduce unnecessary exposure of normal tissues by using advanced technology; examples from photon (X-ray) therapy have included three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy versus its predecessor, two-dimensional radiation therapy, and intensity-modulated photon radiation therapy versus its predecessor, three-dimensional conformal therapy. Using particle-beam therapy rather than photons offers the potential for further advantages because of the unique depth-dose characteristics of the particles, which can be exploited to allow still higher dose escalation to tumors with greater sparing of normal tissues, with the ultimate goal of improving local tumor control and survival while preserving quality of life by reducing treatment-related toxicity. However, the costs associated with particle therapy with protons are considerably higher than the current state of the art in photon technology, and evidence of clinical benefit from protons is increasingly being demanded to justify the higher financial burden on the healthcare system. Some such evidence is available from preclinical studies, from retrospective, single-institution clinical series, from analyses of national databases, and from single-arm prospective studies in addition to several ongoing randomized comparative trials. This review summarizes the rationale for and challenges of using proton therapy to treat thoracic cancers, reviews the current clinical experience, and suggests topics for future research.
The congressional mandate: standardised post-acute care quality measures
Authors: Kroll Christine , Fisher Thomas
Published: August 2019

Background/Aims

This study describes the relationships between rehabilitation services intensity, post-acute care measures of Functional Performance Change, and length of stay for episodes of care provided in 93 skilled nursing facilities in the US.

Methods

The study used a secondary analysis of existing data on Medicare beneficiaries admitted to skilled nursing facilities from acute hospitals (n=518) who subsequently returned to the community. Data were selected from Minimum Data Set Section GG items reported by therapists.

Results

Statistically significant correlations were identified between rehabilitation services intensity and functional outcomes (P<0.001); and between rehabilitation intensity, medical condition, and length of stay (P<0.001) for rehabilitation patients in skilled nursing facilities.

Conclusions

The intensity of occupational and physical rehabilitation therapy services correlate with patients achieving higher functional outcomes, specifically improvement in self-care and mobility.
Prostate cancer in gay and bisexual men
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: August 2019

Ian Peate discusses this often overlooked aspect of prostate cancer care
De l’Exil à la désillusion dans Un Papillon dans la cité, L’Exil selon Julia et Chair Piment de Gisèle Pineau
Authors: Obidiegwu Vincent Nnaemeka
Published: August 2019

Caribbean writers such as Gisèle Pineau, Maryse Condé, Yannick Lahens, Dany Laferrière, Louis Philipe Dalembert, Stanley Pean and Emile Olivier have written a lot of literary works on the question of exile. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine how Gisèle Pineau attempts to show the consequences of exile, which is disillusion in her novels. The study aims to find out why the problem of exile is prevalent in Gisèle Pineau novels? The study also investigates why the feelings of disillusion manifest in the lives of Gisèle Pineau characters that are in exile. Consequently, this study will show that racism, traumatic experience and cultural shock suffered by characters can cause disillusion. Therefore, the study recommends that the only solution to the problem of exile is to return to homeland. To do so, we are going to analyze three novels of Gisèle Pineau: Un Papillon dans la cité, L’Exil selon Julia et Chair Piment. To carry out an effective research, we are going to make use of sociological approach which seems important to us for the study.
The black Mediterranean reimagined: Counterfactual world-building in francophone speculative fiction
Authors: Ziethen Antje
Published: August 2019

This article analyses francophone speculative literature and cinema and the way it mobilizes counterfactuals to challenge historical teleologies and spatial orders by exploring possible worlds and contingencies. The analysis will focus on four works of fiction from the francophone African diaspora including Bertène Juminer’s La revanche de Bozambo (2000), Boubacar Boris Diop’s Le temps de Tamango (1981), Abdourahman A. Waberi’s Aux États-Unis d’Afrique (2006) and Sylvestre Amoussou’s film Africa Paradis (2007). The four narratives erode conventional geographies and migration patterns through a counterfactual lens, depicting African countries either as imperial powers that have conquered European territories or as revolutionary forces that put an end to European interference. They thus create alternative versions of what Alessandra di Maio calls the black Mediterranean, an intercontinental space constituted by, and constitutive of, the cultures and histories of the African diaspora. Going beyond a purely aesthetic effect, these authors imagine a change of paradigm and intentionally cultivate an atmosphere of alienation for their readership. However, despite their disruptive potential, the speculative narratives remain limited in their world-building efforts because the African futures that they project remind readers more of what is than of what could be.
Gamers at work: Predicting workplace-relevant behaviours across domains
Authors: Short Elizabeth , Weidner Nathan
Published: August 2019

Active gamers are increasingly making up a larger portion of the modern workforce. In response to this, organizations have sought to gamify various workplace practices. This has even begun to include the use of assessment games for employee recruitment and selection. One important limitation of using games for assessment purposes may be the cross-domain generalizability of behaviours between game and workplace contexts. World of Warcraft players (N = 355) responded to an online survey to examine the cross-domain generalizability of important workplace constructs including prosocial organizational citizenship behaviours, aggressive counterproductive workplace behaviours and domain-specific goal orientations. Results indicate that there are moderate correlations between self-reported in-game behaviours and self-reported work behaviours. Furthermore, in-game constructs typically showed similar relationships with in-game performance as the workplace constructs do with job performance.