bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative Method of Traction in a Bilateral Diaphyseal Femur Fracture in a Polytrauma Below-Knee Amputee
Authors: Mitrasinovic Stefan , Kiziridis Georgios , Wellekens Shauni , Roslee Charline , Anjum Syed Neshat
Published: March 2019

While diaphyseal femoral shaft fractures are common, it is uncommon to see this injury in leg amputees. Traditionally, these fractures are internally fixed using a fracture table with reduction obtained by traction and adequate rotation exerted on a slightly abducted extremity. Special considerations need to be given in the management of patients with leg amputations. We report the case of a 24-year-old gentleman with bilateral diaphyseal femoral shaft fractures and a previous right below-knee amputation, who was transferred to our centre following a road traffic collision. We highlight important planning that needs to be undertaken for appropriate positioning, ease of reduction, and fracture fixation. We have reviewed the literature to highlight the methods that have been previously described and our use of skeletal traction through the amputation stump that can be utilised by other surgeons in challenging situations like this.
A Novel OsteomiRs Expression Signature for Osteoblast Differentiation of Human Amniotic Membrane-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Avendaño-Félix Mariana , Fuentes-Mera Lizeth , Ramos-Payan Rosalío , Aguilar-Medina Maribel , Pérez-Silos Vanessa , Moncada-Saucedo Nidia , Marchat Laurence A. , González-Barrios Juan Antonio , Ruiz-García Erika , Astudillo-de la Vega Horacio , Cruz-Colin José L. , López-Camarillo César
Published: March 2019

Human amniotic membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAM-MSCs) are a potential source of cells for therapeutic applications in bone regeneration. Recent evidence reveals a role for microRNAs (miRNAs) in the fine-tuning regulation of osteogenesis (osteomiRs) suggesting that they can be potential targets for skeleton diseases treatment. However, the functions of osteomiRs during differentiation of hAM-MSCs to osteogenic lineage are poorly understood. In this investigation, we discovered a novel miRNAs expression signature corresponding to the matrix maturation (preosteoblast) and mineralization (mature osteoblast) stages of dexamethasone-induced osteoblastic differentiation of hAM-MSCs. Comprehensive miRNAs profiling using TaqMan Low Density Arrays showed that 18 miRNAs were significantly downregulated, whereas 3 were upregulated in the matrix maturation stage (7 days after osteogenic induction) in comparison to undifferentiated cells used as control. Likewise, 47 miRNAs were suppressed and 25 were overexpressed at mineralization stage (14 days after osteogenic induction) in comparison to osteoprogenitors cells. Five out 93 miRNAs (miR-19b-3p, miR-335-3p, miR-197-3p, miR-34b-39, and miR-576-3p) were regulated at both 7 and 14 days suggesting a role in coordinated guidance of osteoblastic differentiation. Exhaustive bioinformatic predictions showed that the set of modulated miRNAs may target multiple genes involved in regulatory networks driving osteogenesis including key members of BMP, TGF-β, and WNT/β-catenin signaling pathways. Of these miRNAs, we selected miR-204, a noncoding small RNA that was expressed at matrix maturation phase and downregulated at maturation stage, for further functional studies. Interestingly, gain-of-function analysis showed that restoration of miR-204 using RNA mimics at the onset of mineralization stage dramatically inhibited deposition of calcium and osteogenic maturation of hAM-MSCs. Moreover in silico analysis detected a conserved miR-204 binding site at the 3′UTR of TGF-βR2 receptor gene. Using luciferase assays we confirmed that TGF-βR2 is a downstream effector of miR-204. In conclusion, we have identified a miRNAs signature for osteoblast differentiation of hAM-MSCs. The results from this study suggested that these miRNAs may act as potential inhibitors or activators of osteogenesis. Our findings also points towards the idea that miR-204/TGF-βR2 axis has a regulatory role in differentiation of hAM-MSCs committed to osteoblastic lineage.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Developing from a Testicular Epidermal Cyst: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kasahara Ryo , Tajiri Ryosuke , Kobayashi Kota , Yao Masahiro , Kitami Kazuo
Published: March 2019

A 50-year-old Japanese man with a two-year history of a painless right scrotal mass visited our hospital. Considering laboratory findings and computed tomography, the patient was diagnosed with an uncharacteristic testicular tumor. No metastases were present on radiographic study at the first visit. Emergent high radical orchiectomy was performed, and the tumor was identified as a squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of a testicular epidermal cyst. He is alive without recurrence or metastasis six months after surgery. Testicular SCC is an extremely rare tumor. This is the third case of testicular SCC associated with an epidermal cyst in English literature.
Polyethylene/Graphene Nanoplatelet Nanocomposite-Based Insulating Materials for Effective Reduction of Space Charge Accumulation in High-Voltage Direct-Current Cables
Authors: Park Ji Sun , Kim Young Sun , Jung Hyun-Jung , Park Daseul , Yoo Jee Young , Nam Jin Ho , Kim Yoon Jin
Published: March 2019

We have demonstrated a straightforward hydrophobic surface modification of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) through a defect-healing process to fabricate well-dispersed insulating low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/GNP nanocomposites and have confirmed their effective suppression of space charge accumulation. Without any organic modifiers, GNPs containing oxygen-based functional groups at the edges were successfully reduced at optimal high-temperature defect-healing condition and modified to have hydrophobic surface properties similar to those of the LDPE matrix. The degree of dispersion and the reproducibility of the mechanically melt-mixed LDPE/GNP nanocomposites were immediately analyzed by thickness-normalized optical absorption measurement. In the LDPE matrix, below the percolation threshold concentration, well-dispersed GNP fillers effectively acted as trapping sites under high electric fields, resulting in the successful suppression of packet-like space charge accumulation (field enhancement factor=1.04 @ 0.1 wt% LDPE/GNP nanocomposite).
Research Methods and Progress of Patellofemoral Joint Kinematics: A Review
Authors: Yu Zhenguo , Yao Jie , Wang Xingliang , Xin Xing , Zhang Ke , Cai Hong , Fan Yubo , Yang Bin
Published: March 2019

Patellofemoral pain syndrome has a high morbidity, and its pathology is closely associated with patellofemoral joint kinematics. A series of in vivo and in vitro studies have been conducted to explore patellofemoral kinematics, and the findings are relevant to the diagnosis, classification, and management of patellofemoral diseases and even the whole knee joint. However, no definite conclusion on normal patellofemoral kinematics has been established. In this study, the measurement methodologies of patellofemoral kinematics (including data collection methods, loading conditions, and coordinate system) as well as their advantages and limitations were reviewed. Motion characteristics of the patella were analyzed. During knee flexion, the patellar flexion angle lagged by 30–40% compared to the tibiofemoral joint flexion. The patella tilts, rotates, and shifts medially in the initial stage of knee flexion and subsequently tilts, rotates, and shifts laterally. The finite patellar helical axis fluctuates near the femoral transepicondylar axis or posterior condylar axis. Moreover, factors affecting kinematics, such as morphology of the trochlear groove, soft tissue balance, and tibiofemoral motion, were analyzed. At the initial period of flexion, soft tissues play a vital role in adjusting patellar tracking, and during further flexion, the status of the patella is determined by the morphology of the trochlear groove and patellar facet. Our findings could increase our understanding of patellofemoral kinematics and can help to guide the operation plan for patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Dihydrotanshinone-Induced NOX5 Activation Inhibits Breast Cancer Stem Cell through the ROS/Stat3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Kim Su-Lim , Choi Hack Sun , Kim Ji-Hyang , Jeong Dong Kee , Kim Ki-Seok , Lee Dong-Sun
Published: March 2019

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known to mediate metastasis and recurrence and are therefore a promising therapeutic target. In this study, we found that dihydrotanshinone (DHTS) inhibits CSC formation. DHTS inhibited mammosphere formation in a dose-dependent manner and showed significant tumor growth inhibition in a xenograft model. This compound reduced the CD44high/CD24low- and aldehyde dehydrogenase- (ALDH-) expressing cell population and the self-renewal-related genes Nanog, SOX2, OCT4, C-Myc, and CD44. DHTS induced NOX5 activation by increasing calcium, and NOX5 activation induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. ROS production reduced the nuclear phosphorylation levels of Stat3 and secreted IL-6 levels in the mammospheres. DHTS deregulated the dynamic equilibrium from non-stem cancer cells to CSCs by dephosphorylating Stat3 and decreasing IL-6 secretion and inhibiting CSC formation. These novel findings showed that DHTS-induced ROS deregulated the Stat3/IL-6 pathway and induced CSC death. NOX5 activation by DHTS inhibits CSC formation through ROS/Stat3/IL-6 signaling, and DHTS may be a promising potential therapeutic agent against breast CSCs.
Forehead against Resistance (FAR): Preliminary Findings from A Clinical Alternative to Shaker’s Type of Exercise
Authors: Balasubramaniam Radish Kumar , Krishnamurthy Rahul , Rajan Athira , K Suprasanna
Published: March 2019

Background. Reduced UES opening is a well-known risk factor for dysphagia. The Shaker exercise and the CTAR are the widely used intervention strategies to bring about effective UES opening. But there are well-known difficulties with the clinical use of these two exercise regimes. The present study proposes a clinical alternative to Shaker’s exercise and CTAR called the forehead against resistance (FAR) and its variants without altering the central principles of these two regimes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of FAR and its variants in bringing about UES opening. Method. The study used a comparative cross-sectional study design, with the nonrandomized convenient sampling that included 27 healthy adults. MBS was carried out in the anterior-posterior and lateral views, while the participants performed FAR and its variants. The UES diameter was measured in the baseline and with the subjects performing FAR maneuver and its variants. Results. The result revealed that the participants had greater UES opening on FAR and its variant than the baseline swallow. Also, mean values of UES opening were greater for FAR with chin tuck when compared to FAR alone, although there was no significant main effect with exercise. Conclusion. FAR and its variant could be one of the options for increasing UES opening in individuals with dysphagia.
Serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels Correlate with Severity of Retinopathy in Diabetic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Zhongwei , Ju Huixiang , Sun Mingzhong , Chen Hongmei
Published: March 2019

Background.Investigations regarding serum and plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) are conflicting. This meta-analysis is aimed at determining whether serum and plasma VEGF levels are associated with DR and its severity in diabetic patients.Methods.PubMed and EMBASE were used to search for published studies, and serum and plasma VEGF levels were compared among DR, nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and nondiabetic retinopathy (NDR) patients. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were pooled using a random effects model.Results.A total of 29 studies comprising 1805 DR (or NPDR or PDR) patients and 1699 NDR patients were included. ELISA was used to evaluate serum or plasma VEGF levels in all except for two studies included in this meta-analysis. Overall, serum VEGF levels were significantly higher in DR patients (SMD: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.44-1.03) than those in NDR patients, while plasma VEGF levels were not in the comparison (SMD: 0.40, 95% CI: −0.13-0.92). Similarly, NPDR (SMD: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.22-0.80) and PDR (SMD: 1.32, 95% CI: 0.79-1.85) patients had higher serum VEGF levels compared with NDR patients, but the difference was not significant in plasma samples (SMD: 0.24, 95% CI: −0.47-0.95; SMD: 0.37, 95% CI: −0.30-1.05). In addition, serum VEGF levels were higher in PDR patients than those in NPDR patients (SMD: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.41-1.33), but plasma VEGF levels were not (SMD: −0.00, 95% CI: −0.31-0.31). The subgroup and metaregression analysis revealed that the study location, study design, and publication year of a study have certain influence on heterogeneity between studies in serum or plasma samples.Conclusions. VEGF levels in the serum instead of those in the plasma correlate to the presence and severity of DR in diabetic patients. Further large-scale studies are required to confirm these findings.
Development of Back and Front Contacts for CdTe Layer in Tandem Flexible Photoelectric Converters on Basis of CdTe/CuInSe2
Authors: Khrypunov M. G. , Kudii D. A. , Kovtun N. A. , Kharchenko M. M. , Khrypunova I. V.
Published: March 2019

By the method of nonreactive high-frequency magnetron sputtering on Upilex polyimide films, transparent and conductive layers of ITO were obtained. These layers, after high-temperature annealing, at temperatures typical for the solar cell formation, had a resistance of 11 ohm/□ and a transmittance of up to 72%. The use of such an ITO layer with the addition of a 100 nm thick layer of undoped zinc oxide, as the front contact, and Cu/ITO composition, as the back contact, made it possible to obtain a flexible solar cell polyimide/ITO/CdS/CdTe/Cu/ITO with an efficiency of 10.4%. With a thickness of the base layer of cadmium telluride 2.5 μm, the average transmittance of the SC in the 850-1100 nm wavelength range is 46.8%. The developed design of a flexible solar cell based on cadmium telluride due to the use of a transparent back contact with a comb metal electrode is easily interfaced with existing designs of flexible solar cells based on copper and indium diselenide, which allow the formation of flexible tandem photoelectric converters CdTe/CuInSe2.
Dietary Polyphenols in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Protection against Oxidative Stress and Beyond
Authors: Pawlowska Elzbieta , Szczepanska Joanna , Koskela Ali , Kaarniranta Kai , Blasiak Janusz
Published: March 2019

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disease of the retina featured by degeneration and loss of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells with oxidative stress playing a role in its pathology. Although systematic reviews do not support the protective role of diet rich in antioxidants against AMD, dietary polyphenols (DPs) have been reported to have beneficial effects on vision. Some of them, such as quercetin and cyanidin-3-glucoside, can directly scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the presence of two hydroxyl groups in their B ring structure. Apart from direct ROS scavenging, DPs can lower oxidative stress in several other pathways. Many DPs induce NRF2 (nuclear factor, erythroid 2-like 2) activation and expression of phase II enzymes that are under transcriptional control of this factor. DPs can inhibit A2E photooxidation in RPE cells, which is a source of oxidative stress. Anti-inflammatory action of DPs in RPE cells is associated with regulation of various interleukins and signaling pathways, including IL-6/JAK2 (Janus kinase 2)/STAT3. Some DPs can improve impaired cellular waste clearance, including AMD-specific deficient phagocytosis of the Aβ42 peptide and autophagy.
Effects of Knee Osteoarthritis on Hip and Ankle Gait Mechanics
Authors: Ro Du Hyun , Lee Joonhee , Lee Jangyun , Park Jae-Young , Han Hyuk-Soo , Lee Myung Chul
Published: March 2019

Introduction. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) can affect the hip and ankle joints, as these three joints operate as a kinetic/kinematic chain while walking. Purpose. This study was performed to compare (1) hip and ankle joint gait mechanics between knee OA and control groups and (2) to investigate the effects of knee gait mechanics on the ipsilateral hip and ankle joint. Methods. The study group included 89 patients with end-stage knee OA and 42 age- and sex-matched controls without knee pain or OA. Kinetic and kinematic parameters were evaluated using a commercial optoelectric gait analysis system. Range of motion (ROM) during gait, coronal motion arc, and peak joint moment of hip, knee, and ankle joints were investigated. Results. Ankle varus moment was 50% higher in the OA group (p=0.005) and was associated with higher knee adduction moment (p<0.001). The ROM of the hip and ankle joints were significantly smaller in the OA group and were associated with limited ROM of the knee joint (both p<0.001). The coronal motion arc of the hip was smaller in the OA group and was also associated with limited motion arc of the knee (p<0.001). Conclusions. Knee OA has a negative effect on the ROM, coronal motion arc, and joint moment of the ankle joint and hip joint. As knee OA is associated with increased moment of the ankle joint, attention should be paid to the ankle joint when treating patients with knee OA.
Reverse Immunology Approach to Define a New HIV-gp41-Neutralizing Epitope
Authors: Dorgham Karim , Pietrancosta Nicolas , Affoune Amel , Lucar Olivier , Bouceba Tahar , Chardonnet Solenne , Pionneau Cedric , Piesse Christophe , Sterlin Delphine , Guardado-Calvo Pablo , Karoyan Philippe , Debré Patrice , Gorochov Guy , Vieillard Vincent
Published: March 2019

The design of immunogens susceptible to elicit potent and broadly neutralizing antibodies against the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) remains a veritable challenge in the course of vaccine development. Viral envelope proteins adopt different conformational states during the entry process, allowing the presentation of transient neutralizing epitopes. We focused on the highly conserved 3S motif of gp41, which is exposed to the surface envelope in its trimeric prefusion state. Vaccination with a W614A-modified 3S peptide induces in animals neutralizing anti-HIV-1 antibodies among which we selected clone F8. We used F8 as bait to select for W614A-3S phage-peptide mimics. Binding and molecular docking studies revealed that F8 interacts similarly with W614A-3S and a Mim_F8-1 mimotope, despite their lack of sequence homology, suggesting structural mimicry. Finally, vaccination of mice with the purified Mim_F8-1 phage elicited HIV-1-neutralizing antibodies that bound to the cognate W614A-3S motif. Collectively, our findings provide new insights into the molecular design of immunogens to elicit antibodies with neutralizing properties.
Vibration Information Acquisition and Representation Control Strategy for Construction Vehicle Driver Seat
Authors: Gong Mingde , Zhao Baoqiang , Wang Xin
Published: March 2019

Vibration information acquisition and representation control strategy in the experiment of construction of vehicle driver seat are investigated in this study. An improved adaptive algorithm of multisensor attitude data fusion is proposed. The nonlinear equations of vehicle attitude quaternions are constructed by using the test information of accelerometers and magnetometers. Then, a complementary filter is used to fuse the obtained attitude with gyroscope information to obtain attitude information during vehicle travel. Weight matrix and filter coefficients in the algorithm are adjusted with vehicle motions to ensure accuracy of attitude measurement under static, low‐, and high‐acceleration conditions. The vehicle vibration displacement information is reconstructed by the low‐frequency attenuation integration method on the basis of attitude measurement to inhibit integral trend items and reduce vibration displacement reconstruction errors. The three‐state controller is designed to control a six‐degree‐of‐freedom hydraulic simulated vibration test bed, and the obtained vibration signal is used as an excitation signal to perform a vibration representation control test. Finally, results verify that the proposed method demonstrates favourable data fusion and representation accuracy.
Canagliflozin Prevents Intrarenal Angiotensinogen Augmentation and Mitigates Kidney Injury and Hypertension in Mouse Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Woods T. Cooper , Satou Ryousuke , Miyata Kayoko , Katsurada Akemi , Dugas Courtney M. , Klingenberg Natasha C. , Fonseca Vivian A. , Navar L. Gabriel
Published: March 2019

Background: Hypertension and renal injury are common complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Hyperglycemia stimulates renal proximal tubular angiotensinogen (AGT) expression via elevated oxidative stress contributing to the development of high blood pressure and diabetic nephropathy. The sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) in proximal tubules is responsible for the majority of glucose reabsorption by renal tubules. We tested the hypothesis that SGLT2 inhibition with canagliflozin (CANA) prevents intrarenal AGT augmentation and ameliorates kidney injury and hypertension in T2DM. Methods: We induced T2DM in New Zealand obese mice with a high fat diet (DM, 30% fat) with control mice receiving regular fat diet (ND, 4% fat). When DM mice exhibited > 350 mg/dL blood glucose levels, both DM- and ND-fed mice were treated with 10 mg/kg/day CANA or vehicle by oral gavage for 6 weeks. We evaluated intrarenal AGT, blood pressure, and the development of kidney injury. Results: Systolic blood pressure in DM mice (133.9 ± 2.0 mm Hg) was normalized by CANA (113.9 ± 4.0 mm Hg). CANA treatment ameliorated hyperglycemia-associated augmentation of renal AGT mRNA (148 ± 21 copies/ng RNA in DM, and 90 ± 16 copies/ng RNA in DM + CANA) and protein levels as well as elevation of urinary 8-isoprostane levels. Tubular fibrosis in DM mice (3.4 ± 0.9-fold, fibrotic score, ratio to ND) was suppressed by CANA (0.9 ± 0.3-fold). Furthermore, CANA attenuated DM associated increased macrophage infiltration and cell proliferation in kidneys of DM mice. Conclusions: CANA prevents intrarenal AGT upregulation and oxidative stress and which may mitigate high blood pressure, renal tubular fibrosis, and renal inflammation in T2DM.
Atheroprotective Flow Upregulates ITPR3 (Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor 3) in Vascular Endothelium via KLF4 (Krüppel-Like Factor 4)-Mediated Histone Modifications
Authors: He Ming , Huang Tse-Shun , Li Shuai , Hong Hsiao-Chin , Chen Zhen , Martin Marcy , Zhou Xin , Huang Hsi-Yuan , Su Shu-Han , Zhang Jiao , Wang Wei-Ting , Kang Jian , Huang Hsien-Da , Zhang Jin , Chien Shu , Shyy John Y.-J.
Published: March 2019

Objective—

The topographical distribution of atherosclerosis in vasculature underscores the importance of shear stress in regulating endothelium. With a systems approach integrating sequencing data, the current study aims to explore the link between shear stress-regulated master transcription factor and its regulation of endothelial cell (EC) function via epigenetic modifications.

Approach and Results—

H3K27ac (acetylation of histone 3 lysine 27)-ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by high throughput sequencing), ATAC-seq (an assay for transposase-accessible chromatin-sequencing), and RNA-seq (RNA-sequencing) were performed to investigate the genome-wide epigenetic regulations in ECs in response to atheroprotective pulsatile shear stress (PS). In silico prediction revealed that KLF4 binding motifs were enriched in the PS-enhanced H3K27ac regions. By integrating PS- and KLF4-modulated H3K27ac, we identified 18 novel PS-upregulated genes. The promoter regions of these genes showed an overlap between the KLF4-enhanced assay for transposase-accessible chromatin signals and the PS-induced H3K27ac peaks. Experiments using ECs isolated from mouse aorta, lung ECs from EC-KLF4-TG versus EC-KLF4-KO mice, and atorvastatin-treated ECs showed that ITPR3 (inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 3) was robustly activated by KLF4 and statins. KLF4 ATAC-qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) and ChIP-qPCR further demonstrated that a specific locus in the promoter region of the
ITPR3
gene was essential for KLF4 binding, H3K27ac enrichment, chromatin accessibility, RNA polymerase II recruitment, and ITPR3 transcriptional activation. Deletion of this KLF4 binding locus in ECs by using CRISPR-Cas9 resulted in blunted calcium influx, reduced expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and diminished nitric oxide bioavailability.

Conclusions—

These results from a novel multiomics study suggest that KLF4 is crucial for PS-modulated H3K27ac that allow the transcriptional activation of ITPR3. This novel mechanism contributes to the Ca
2+
-dependent eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) activation and EC homeostasis.
A revision of the genus Calcigorgia (Cnidaria, Octocorallia, Acanthogorgiidae) with the description of three new species
Authors: MATSUMOTO ASAKO K. , VAN OFWEGEN LEEN P. , BAYER FREDERICK M.
Published: March 2019

Octocorals of the Acanthogorgiid genus Calcigorgia have been examined, from Japan, Sea of Okhotsk, and Bering Sea. The four known species are re-described and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of sclerites presented. Three other species are described and depicted, bringing the total number of Calcigorgia species to seven. Calcigorgia simushiri, Dautova 2018 is synonymized with C. spiculifera Broch, 1935. A neotype for C. spiculifera has been designated.
A new species of Liophloeothrips (Thysanoptera, Phlaeothripidae) from leaf litter from Iran
Authors: HAKIMARA MAHSA , MINAEI KAMBIZ , SADEGHI SABER , MOUND LAURENCE
Published: March 2019

Of the 16 species listed in the genus Liophloeothrips (ThripsWiki 2018), 13 are known only from India, and all of these are phytophagous with some inducing galls in various plant families (Tyagi & Kumar 2011). However, the biology of the type species, L. glaber, as well as that of the other two species, L. hungaricus and L. pulchrisetis, remains in doubt. Each of these three species is from Europe, with L. pulchrisetis known from a single female, L. glaber from two specimens, and hungaricus recorded from Hungary, Finland and Iran on a very few individuals (Minaei & Mound 2014). The record of L. hungaricus from Iran was published without any information concerning the locality, date of collection, or number of specimens (Mortazawiha 1995). However, Minaei and Mound (2014) pointed out that the slide label data of L. hungaricus specimens from Europe suggested that this species is associated with the bark of certain Salicaceae. Moreover, they indicated the possibility that the three names might actually represent a single species, although the male of L. glabrus has a sternal pore plate whereas this is apparently absent in hungaricus. Given the few known specimens, it is not possible to know if these thrips live under bark and feed on fungal hyphae, or if the few specimens collected were actually leaf-feeders that were sheltering under bark. In this paper, a new species of the genus is described from southern Iran, based on both sexes. These specimens were extracted from leaf litter using a Berlese funnel, thus again it is not possible to be certain if the species is part of the community of fungus-feeding litter thrips, or if the specimens were merely sheltering.
Carlsbergia, a replacement name for Indiella Sautya, Tabachnick & Ingole, 2011 (Porifera: Aulocalycidae)
Authors: GAUDIN JIMMY
Published: March 2019

The genus Indiella was established by Sautya, Tabachnick & Ingole in 2011 to include the monotypic, and type species Indiella ridgenensis for a species of Porifera (Hexactinellida: Aulocalycidae) from the Carlsberg Ridge in the Indian Ocean. Unfortunately, it turns out that this name is already preoccupied by Indiella Blattný, 1925 (type species: Ctenistes birmanensis Motschulsky, 1851 by monotypy), a poorly known genus of Pselaphine beetle (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae). However, although Indiella Blattný is currently considered as a junior synonym of Sognorus Reitter, 1881, this name is available and, therefore, according to Article 52.2 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN, 1999), Indiella Sautya, Tabachnick & Ingole, as a junior homonym, cannot be used. To resolve this homonymy, in accordance with Article 60 of the ICZN, a substitute name with a new combination is proposed below.
On Cacopsylla moiwasana (Kuwayama, 1908) (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Psyllidae) associated with Sorbus (Rosaceae) with new synonymies
Authors: CHO GEONHO , INOUE HIROMITSU , LEE SEUNGHWAN
Published: March 2019

New junior synonyms are proposed for the Sorbus-feeding Cacopsylla moiwasana (Kuwayama, 1908): Psylla jezoensis Miyatake, 1963, syn. nov. and Psylla midoriae Miyatake, 1963, syn. nov. The species is newly recorded from Korea.
A new cave-dwelling species of Lagynochthonius (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones: Chthoniidae) from Yunnan Province, China
Authors: LI YUN-CHUN , LIU HUAI , SHI AI-MIN
Published: March 2019

A new pseudoscorpion, Lagynochthonius bailongtanensis sp. nov., is described and illustrated from specimens collected in a cave in Luoping County, Yunnan Province, China. This species is notable in being strongly troglomorphic. A new identification key is provided to all known Chinese representatives of the genus Lagynochthonius.
Review of the oar-head leafhopper genus Nacolus Jacobi (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Hylicinae)
Authors: TANG JIU , ZHANG YALIN
Published: March 2019

Six species in genus Nacolus Jacobi 1914 and one species in genus Melliola Hedicke 1923 are found to be synonyms. The following new synonyms are proposed for Nacolus tuberculatus (Walker 1858): Nacolus gavialis Jacobi 1914 syn. n.; Nacolus assamensis (Distant 1918) syn. n.; Nacolus sinensis (Ouchi 1938) syn. n.; Nacolus fuscovittatus Kuoh 1992 syn. n.; Nacolus nigrovittatus Kuoh 1992 syn. n. and Melliola granulata Schmidt 1920 syn. n. The genus Nacolus is reviewed with re-descriptions and photographs of external morphology and genitalia of males and females.
A comprehensive taxonomic list of brittle stars (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) from submarine caves of the Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan, with a description of a rare species, Dougaloplus echinatus (Amphiuridae)
Authors: OKANISHI MASANORI , FUJITA YOSHIHISA
Published: March 2019

The ophiuroid species listed were collected by benthic faunal surveys from 2016 to 2018 in submarine caves of the Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan. The material includes 20 species from 8 families, Amphiuridae, Ophiocomidae, Ophiodermatidae, Ophiolepididae, Ophioleucidae, Ophiomyxidae, Ophionereididae and Ophiotrichidae. This is the first comprehensive report of submarine cave-dwelling ophiuroids from Japanese waters. Also provided is a redescription of a rare species, Dougaloplus echinatus (Ljungman, 1867), with a detailed description of its ossicle morphology. The species has previously been reported from Brazil, Australia, Eastern Indian Ocean to Southern China, in 11–118 m depth, and this is the first record of D. echinatus from Japanese waters. A brief discussion of the scarcity of submarine cave systems, and the need for their conservation, is provided.
Redescription of Naineris aurantiaca (Müller, 1858) and designation of a neotype from the Brazilian coast (Annelida: Orbiniidae)
Authors: ALVAREZ RICARDO CASTRO , DA ROCHA MIRANDA VINÍCIUS , DOS SANTOS BRASIL ANA CLAUDIA
Published: March 2019

The genus Naineris differs from other genera of the Orbiniidae in that all its species possess a rounded prostomium and one or two achaetous rings. Currently, 21 species of this genus have been described worldwide, five of which are recorded from Brazil. Naineris aurantiaca is the only species originally described from the Brazilian coast and the original description is the only record of this species. The description is short and vague, making identification difficult. From recent samples obtained in the type locality of Florianópolis, Brazil, we were able to study specimens of Naineris aurantiaca and redescribe the species. Diagnostic characters for this species are the presence of pre- and post-branchial papillae, anterior branchiae in thoracic segments considerably smaller than those of the rest of the body, distinct dorsal sensory organ from chaetiger 12 onwards, the chaetal arrangement of the thoracic neuropodia (crenulated capillaries in a lower oblique row, uncini in an upper oblique row, subuluncini in two anterior transverse rows, and acicular spines in a posterior row), interramal papillae only present on abdominal parapodia, and the presence of furcate chaetae in the abdominal notopodia. Here, we designate a neotype for the species and discuss the morphological variations we observed among specimens.
Crucial and Overlapping Roles of Six1 and Six2 in Craniofacial Development
Authors: Liu Z. , Li C. , Xu J. , Lan Y. , Liu H. , Li X. , Maire P. , Wang X. , Jiang R.
Published: March 2019

SIX1 and SIX2 encode closely related transcription factors of which disruptions have been associated with distinct craniofacial syndromes, with mutations in SIX1 associated with branchiootic syndrome 3 (BOS3) and heterozygous deletions of SIX2 associated with frontonasal dysplasia defects. Whereas mice deficient in Six1 recapitulated most of the developmental defects associated with BOS3, mice lacking Six2 function had no obvious frontonasal defects. We show that Six1 and Six2 exhibit partly overlapping patterns of expression in the developing mouse embryonic frontonasal, maxillary, and mandibular processes. We found that Six1 –/– Six2 –/– double-mutant mice were born with severe craniofacial deformity not seen in the Six1 –/– or Six2 –/– single mutants, including skull bone agenesis, midline facial cleft, and syngnathia. Moreover, whereas Six1 –/– mice exhibited partial transformation of maxillary zygomatic bone into a mandibular condyle-like structure, Six1 –/–Six2 +/– mice exhibit significantly increased penetrance of the maxillary malformation. In addition to ectopic Dlx5 expression at the maxillary-mandibular junction as recently reported in E10.5 Six1 –/– embryos, the E10.5 Six1 –/– Six2 +/– embryos showed ectopic expression of Bmp4, Msx1, and Msx2 messenger RNAs in the maxillary-mandibular junction. Genetically inactivating 1 allele of either Ednra or Bmp4 significantly reduced the penetrance of maxillary malformation in both Six1 –/– and Six1 –/– Six2 +/– embryos, indicating that Six1 and Six2 regulate both endothelin and bone morphogenetic protein-4 signaling pathways to pattern the facial structures. Furthermore, we show that neural crest–specific inactivation of Six1 in Six2 –/– embryos resulted in midline facial cleft and frontal bone agenesis. We show that Six1 –/– Six2 –/– embryos exhibit significantly reduced expression of key frontonasal development genes Alx1 and Alx3 as well as increased apoptosis in the developing frontonasal mesenchyme. Together, these results indicate that Six1 and Six2 function partly redundantly to control multiple craniofacial developmental processes and play a crucial neural crest cell–autonomous role in frontonasal morphogenesis.
Parental smoking and the risk of congenital heart defects in offspring: An updated meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Zhao Lijuan , Chen Lizhang , Yang Tubao , Wang Lesan , Wang Tingting , Zhang Senmao , Chen Letao , Ye Ziwei , Zheng Zan , Qin Jiabi
Published: March 2019

Objective

Although previous reviews confirmed maternal active smoking was significantly associated with risk of fetal congenital heart defects (CHDs), association between maternal passive smoking and paternal smoking and risk of CHDs is inconclusive nowadays; furthermore, a complete overview is lacking. A meta-analysis of observational studies was conducted to assess the risk of CHDs associated with maternal active and passive smoking and paternal smoking.

Methods

Seven electronic databases were searched for qualified research up to June 2018. We summarized study characteristics and the summary risk estimates were calculated using either the random-effect model or fixed-effect model. Sensitivity and subgroup analysis were carried out to identify the potential heterogeneity moderators.

Results

One hundred and twenty-five studies involving 137,574 CHDs cases in 8,770,837 study participants were included. Overall, maternal active (risk ratio (RR) = 1.25; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16–1.34; p < 0.01) and passive (RR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.81–2.77; p < 0.01) smoking as well as paternal active smoking (RR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.48–2.06; p < 0.01) were significantly associated with CHDs risk. For specific CHD subtypes, our study showed that maternal active smoking was significantly associated with risk of atrial septal defect (RR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.02–1.59; p = 0.03) and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.04–1.97; p = 0.03). Relevant heterogeneity moderators have been identified by subgroup analysis. Sensitivity analysis yielded consistent results.

Conclusion

Maternal active smoking, maternal passive smoking as well as paternal smoking all increased the risk of CHDs in offspring. Preventing parental smoking during peri-pregnancy is a priority for CHDs prevention.
Retrospective Survival Analysis of Patients With Resected Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and a Germline BRCA or PALB2 Mutation
Authors: Yu Shun , Agarwal Parul , Mamtani Ronac , Symecko Heather , Spielman Kelsey , O’Hara Mark , O’Dwyer Peter J. , Schneider Charles , Teitelbaum Ursina , Nathanson Katherine L. , Domchek Susan M. , Reiss Kim A.
Published: March 2019

PURPOSE

Germline mutations in the homologous recombination genes BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 confer an increased risk for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Tumors associated with mutations in homologous recombination genes are sensitive to DNA-damaging agents. We retrospectively studied patients with resected PDAC and a pathogenic germline mutation in one of these three genes. The planned analyses included overall survival (OS) and changes therein when platinum chemotherapy was used in the perioperative setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two individuals with pathogenic germline mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, or PALB2 and resected PDAC (mutation positive) were matched in a 1:2 fashion to patients who were noncarriers or untested (mutation negative) by age, year of diagnosis, stage, and sex. Patients were identified via one of two available databases at University of Pennsylvania: the Basser Center for BRCA Registry or the electronic medical record. The primary outcome was OS.

RESULTS

Patients in the mutation-positive group had a median OS (mOS) of 46.6 months; those in the mutation-negative group had an mOS of 23.2 months (hazard ratio [HR], 0.49; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.88). With platinum exposure in the perioperative setting, mOS in the mutation-positive group had not yet been met versus a mOS of 23.1 months in the mutation-negative group (HR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.01 to 1.00). When neither group was treated with platinum, there was no significant OS difference between groups (HR, 0.52; 95% CI 0.12 to 2.24). Patients in the mutation-positive group who received perioperative treatment with platinum had a trend toward improved mOS compared with those who did not (HR, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.02 to 1.23; P = .07).

CONCLUSION

Platinum-based chemotherapy may confer a survival benefit in patients with resected PDAC and a pathogenic germline BRCA1, BRCA2, or PALB2 mutation. Knowledge of a germline mutation may be important to determine best choice of perioperative chemotherapy.
Weight Training and Risk of 10 Common Types of Cancer
Authors: MAZZILLI KAITLYN M. , MATTHEWS CHARLES E. , SALERNO ELIZABETH A. , MOORE STEVEN C.
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Ample data support that leisure time aerobic moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is associated with lower risk of at least seven types of cancer. However, the link between muscle-strengthening activities and cancer etiology is not well understood. Our objective was to determine the association of weight lifting with incidence of 10 common cancer types.

Methods

We used multivariable Cox regression to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for association of weight lifting with incidence of 10 cancer types in the National Institutes of Health-American Association of Retired Persons Diet and Health Study follow-up. Weight lifting was modeled continuously and categorically. Dose–response relationships were evaluated using cubic restricted spline models. We explored whether associations varied by subgroups defined by sex, age, and body mass index using the Wald test for homogeneity. We examined joint categories of MVPA and weight lifting in relation to cancer risk for significant associations.

Results

After adjusting for all covariates including MVPA, we observed a statistically significant lower risk of colon cancer (P
trend = 0.003) in individuals who weight lifted; the HR and 95% CI associated with low and high weight lifting as compared with no weight lifting were 0.75 (95% CI, 0.66–0.87) and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.61–0.98), respectively. The weight lifting-colon cancer relationship differed between men and women (any weight lifting vs no weight lifting: HRmen = 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84–0.98; HRwomen = 1.00; 95% CI, 0.93–1.08; P
interaction = 0.008). A lower risk of kidney cancer among weight lifters was observed but became nonsignificant after adjusting for MVPA (P
trend = 0.06), resulting in an HR of 0.94 (95% CI, 0.78–1.12) for low weight lifting and 0.80 (95% CI, 0.59–1.11) for high weight lifting.

Conclusions

Participants who engaged in weight lifting had a significantly lower risk of colon cancer and a trend toward a lower risk of kidney cancer than participants who did not weight lift.
Selling to Advised Buyers
Authors: Malenko Andrey , Tsoy Anton
Published: March 2019

In many cases, buyers are not informed about their valuations and rely on experts, who are informed but biased for overbidding. We study auction design when selling to such “advised buyers.” We show that a canonical dynamic auction, the English auction, has a natural equilibrium that outperforms standard static auctions in expected revenues and allocative efficiency. The ability to communicate as the auction proceeds allows for more informative communication and gives advisors the ability to persuade buyers into overbidding. The same outcome is the unique equilibrium of the English auction when bidders can commit to contracts with their advisors. (JEL D44, D82, D83, D86)
New technologies and the future of cities
Authors: Rovolis Antonis
Published: March 2019

The twentieth first century has been labeled as the “metropolitan century, as it is expected that the urban population will reach the eighty five percent of the total population by the end of the century. New technologies play a crucial role in urban environment, and this role is succinctly described by the term “smart cities”. This term first appeared during the nineties and mainly referred to the interconnection of communities and localities. Recently the term encompasses the use of new technologies in activities ranging from urban transportation, the improvement of social life and urban environment, as well as, the urban administration and the city image. Many city authorities have used specific policies in the application of new technologies in a broad array of social and economic life. New technologies have already had a positive impact on urban
An analysis of the international scientific production on contemporary marketing practices
Authors: Sarquis Aléssio Bessa , Hoeckesfeld Lenoir , Favretto Jacir , Cohen Eric David
Published: March 2019

As práticas contemporâneas de marketing abarcam estratégias que transcendem as táticas tradicionais, como o relacionamento com clientes, marketing interativo, big data e marketing digital. Este artigo atualiza seus avanços pela análise bibliométrica da produção científica internacional até 2016, tendo enfoque qualitativo e quantitativo, e caráter exploratório e descritivo. O levantamento documental e análise de conteúdo com categorização temática apontam para 42 artigos alinhados com o tema, provenientes de 101 autores, 49 universidades e 23 países. Existem doze redes com poucos pesquisadores; a média anual de publicações é baixa, mas há estudos altamente relevantes (Coviello et al., 2002). Predominam estudos empíricos, qualitativos e exploratórios; os métodos de coleta mais utilizados são surveys, entrevistas em profundidade e levantamento documental. A principal contribuição teórica é a caracterização da produção científica internacional, e a relevância acadêmica se dá com a proposição de uma agenda de pesquisas.
Oral health-related quality of life and cognitive functioning in myofascial temporomandibular disorders pain
Authors: Biegańska-Banaś Joanna , Gierowski Józef Krzysztof , Pihut Małgorzata , Ferendiuk Ewa
Published: March 2019

Aim of the study

The aims of the study were to assess whether the Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) is decreased in patients with temporomandibular disorders –myalgic type, to evaluate to what extent myofascial pain intensity affects OHRQoL and to investigate the relationships between cognitive function and OHRQoL.

Subject or material and methods

The study included 45 patients diagnosed with the muscle-related temporomandibular disorders. The study group consisted of twenty three people with painful form of disorder. The control consisted of twenty two people without pain experience. The study was a part of a larger research project. The data to be analyzed for this article was obtained in the course of a single questionnaire survey conducted prior to the start of the treatment process.

Results

The results show that the study group suffering from myofascial pain experiences related to temporomandibular disorders of myalgic type consistently reported higher quality of life levels than the patient group who reported lack of pain experiences. In principle the better OHRQoL, the poorer cognitive functioning in most neurocognitive domains investigated in the study.

Discussion

The results, however surprising, may indicate specific relationships between factors analyzed in the study. These need to be confirmed with larger sample, taking into account general quality of patients life and psychoemotional factors.

Conclusions

OHRQoL of patients with temporomandibular disorders shows a co-variation with certain aspects of cognitive functioning. The results should be considered with a caution that is resulting from the limitations of the research sample.
Patterns and prevalence of psychiatric illnesses presenting to the emergency department
Authors: Patil Sandeep , Patil Nanasaheb , Nayak Raghvendra , Chate Sameeran , Tekkalaki Bheemsain , Patil Veerappa
Published: March 2019

Aim of the study

To know the pattern and prevalence of psychiatric illnesses presenting to the emergency department in a general hospital care setting.

Subject or material and methods

The cross-sectional study included 82 psychiatric patients aged 10 to 60 years and above. Sociodemographic details were obtained, and psychiatric diagnosis was made using International Classification of Diseases 10th edition diagnostic criteria. Statistical analysis was done using Epi Info 7 software.

Results

Psychiatric emergencies were more prevalent among patients aged 20–39 years both in males and females, female household workers, males performing agricultural work, and those from lower socio-economic status and rural areas. However, a significant difference was observed between the genders regarding occupational and living status.

Discussion

The common diagnoses included substance use disorders (21.9 %), dissociative disorders (18.3%), bipolar disorder (17.1%), psychotic disorders (17.1%), depressive disorders (14.6%).

Conclusions

Overall, the study gives insight into various types of presentations and their relation to the psychiatric disorders of psychiatric patients visiting the emergency department. Moreover, the study aids to identify the prevalence of psychiatric emergencies in a general hospital setting.