bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury After Endovascular Thrombectomy for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Gauberti Maxime , Lapergue Bertrand , Martinez de Lizarrondo Sara , Vivien Denis , Richard Sébastien , Bracard Serge , Piotin Michel , Gory Benjamin
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

In experimental models of ischemic stroke, abrupt reperfusion is associated with secondary brain damages, responsible for up to 70% of the final lesion size. Whether this remains true in humans is unknown.

Methods—

Using data from the ASTER randomized trial (Aspiration vs Stent Retriever for Successful Revascularization), we investigated the effect of complete reperfusion (defined as a modified Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction 3) after endovascular thrombectomy on early lesion growth as assessed by diffusion-weighted imaging at baseline and 1 day after reperfusion.

Results—

Among 381 patients included in the trial, 35 achieved complete reperfusion, benefited from both baseline and day 1 diffusion-weighted imaging, lacked significant hemorrhagic transformation, and were, therefore, included in the present study. We found that the median growth of the ischemic lesion between baseline and day 1 was only 0.9 mL after complete reperfusion, representing <4% of the mean lesion size. The actual lesion growth occurring after reperfusion is probably even smaller because this lesion growth occurred, at least in part, between baseline imaging and complete reperfusion, as demonstrated by a statistically significant positive correlation between imaging-to-reperfusion time and lesion growth (
R
2
=0.116;
P
=0.048).

Conclusions—

There is no significant lesion growth after complete reperfusion in most patients. This important discrepancy between clinical and preclinical pathophysiologies should be considered during preclinical evaluation of neuroprotective strategies.
Intracranial Carotid Artery Calcification and Effect of Endovascular Stroke Treatment
Authors: Compagne Kars C.J. , Clephas Pascal R.D. , Majoie Charles B.L.M. , Roos Yvo B.W.E.M. , Berkhemer Olvert A. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , van Zwam Wim H. , van Es Adriaan C.G.M. , Dippel Diederik W.J. , van der Lugt Aad , Bos Daniel ,   for the MR CLEAN Investigators
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

Previous studies suggest that intracranial carotid artery calcification (ICAC) volume might influence the clinical outcome of patients after endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke. Importantly, ICAC can be subtyped into a medial or intimal pattern that may differentially influence the effect of EVT in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

All 500 patients included in the MR CLEAN (Multicenter Randomized Clinical trial of Endovascular treatment for acute ischemic stroke in the Netherlands) were evaluated. Volume (mm
3
) and location pattern (tunica intima or tunica media) of ICAC could be determined on baseline noncontrast computed tomography in 344 patients. Functional outcome at 90 days was assessed with the modified Rankin Scale. Next, we investigated the association of ICAC volume and pattern with functional outcome using adjusted ordinal logistic regression models. Effect modification by EVT was assessed with an interaction term between treatment allocation and ICAC aspect.

Results—

We found evidence for treatment effect modification by ICAC pattern (
P
interaction=0.04). Patients with predominantly medial calcification had better functional outcome with EVT than without this treatment (adjusted common odds ratio, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.23–4.39), but we observed no effect of EVT in patients with predominantly intimal calcifications (adjusted common odds ratio, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.40–1.68). We did not find an association of ICAC volume with functional outcome (adjusted common odds ratio per unit increase ICAC volume 1.01 (95% CI, 0.89–1.13). Moreover, we found no evidence for effect modification by ICAC volume (
P
interaction=0.61).

Conclusions—

The benefit of EVT in acute ischemic stroke patients with a medial calcification pattern is larger than the benefit in patients with an intimal calcification pattern.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.trialregister.nl
. Unique identifier: NTR1804. URL:
http://www.isrctn.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN10888758.
Practical Small Vessel Disease Score Relates to Stroke, Dementia, and Death
Authors: Yilmaz Pinar , Ikram M. Kamran , Niessen Wiro J. , Ikram M. Arfan , Vernooij Meike W.
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

In the general population, we investigated the association of a recently developed cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) sum score with stroke, dementia, and mortality.

Methods—

One thousand six hundred fifty-one stroke-free and nondemented participants (mean age, 73.3 years; 54.5% women) of the population-based Rotterdam Study underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (1.5T) in 2005–2011 and were followed for stroke, dementia, and mortality until 2016–2017. The CSVD sum score was composed by counting the presence of 4 magnetic resonance imaging markers (white matter hyperintensities, lacunes, cerebral microbleeds, and perivascular spaces; range, 0–4). We determined the association of the CSVD score with risk of stroke, dementia, and mortality using Cox models, adjusting for age, sex, and other Framingham Stroke Risk Profile predictors. Additionally, we assessed mortality as a competing risk for stroke and dementia and calculated absolute risk estimates for all outcomes.

Results—

During a mean follow-up of 7.2 years, 66 participants developed stroke, 76 developed dementia, and 306 died. The Framingham Stroke Risk Profile–adjusted hazard ratios of 1 point higher sum score were 1.54 (95% CI, 1.16–2.03) for stroke, 1.25 (95% CI, 0.95–1.64) for dementia, and 1.15 (95% CI, 1.01–1.31) for mortality. No significant differences were seen for subdistribution hazard ratios for stroke and dementia. A higher CSVD score yielded higher absolute risk estimates for all outcomes, calculated during 10 years.

Conclusions—

The CSVD score is a practical measure of global vascular brain injury. A higher sum score on magnetic resonance imaging is associated with higher risk of suffering a stroke, developing dementia, and death.
Anticoagulation Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ruiz Vargas Estefanía , Sposato Luciano A. , Lee Spencer A. W. , Hachinski Vladimir , Cipriano Lauren E.
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are safer, at least equally efficacious, and cost-effective compared to warfarin for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF) but they remain underused, particularly in demented patients. We estimated the cost-effectiveness of DOACs compared with warfarin in patients with AF and Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods—

We constructed a microsimulation model to estimate the lifetime costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and cost-effectiveness of anticoagulation therapy (adjusted-dose warfarin and various DOACs) in 70-year-old patients with AF and AD from a US societal perspective. We stratified patient cohorts based on stage of AD and care setting. Model parameters were estimated from secondary sources. Health benefits were measured in the number of acute health events, life-years, and QALYs gained. We classified alternatives as cost-effective using a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100 000 per QALY gained.

Results—

For patients with AF and AD, compared with warfarin, DOACs increase costs but also increase QALYs by reducing the risk of stroke. For mild-AD patients living in the community, edoxaban increased lifetime costs by $6603 and increased QALYs by 0.076 compared to warfarin, yielding an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $86 882/QALY gained. Even though DOACs increased QALYs compared with warfarin for all patient groups (ranging from 0.019 to 0.085 additional QALYs), no DOAC treatment alternative had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio <$150 000/QALY gained for patients with moderate to severe AD. For patients living in a long-term care facility with mild AD, the DOAC with the lowest incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (rivaroxaban) costs $150 169 per QALY gained; for patients with more severe AD, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were higher.

Conclusions—

For patients with AF and mild AD living in the community, edoxaban is cost-effective compared with warfarin. Even though patients with moderate and severe AD living in the community and patients with any stage of AD living in a long-term care setting may obtain positive clinical benefits from anticoagulation treatment, DOACs are not cost-effective compared with warfarin for these populations. Compared to aspirin, no oral anticoagulation (warfarin or any DOAC) is cost effective in patients with AF and AD.
Clot Migration Is Associated With Intravenous Thrombolysis in the Setting of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Ren Yifan , Churilov Leonid , Mitchell Peter , Dowling Richard , Bush Steve , Yan Bernard
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

Clot migration to distal intracranial arterial segments was observed in patients presented with acute large vessel occlusions. It is postulated that the exposure of patients to intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) increases the risk of clot migration and associated with inaccessibility of the clot by endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). In this study, we aimed to investigate the incidence of clot migration and its association with IVT before EVT.

Methods—

We conducted a single-center retrospective analysis of patients who had EVT during the period 2009 to 2016. Patients who fulfilled clinical criteria were treated with bridging IVT and those who did not were treated with direct EVT. Clot position was assessed by pretreatment computed tomography angiogram or magnetic resonance angiogram and was compared with clot position identified by digital subtraction angiography before planned endovascular thrombectomy.

Results—

Of 314 included patients, clot migration occurred in 43 patients (13.7%). The proportion of clot migration was 18.7% (39 of 209) in patients who had bridging IVT with EVT compared with 3.8% (4 of 105) in direct EVT (
P
=0.001). Of the 39 patients who had clot migration in the bridging IVT with EVT, 59.0% (23 of 39) demonstrated clot inaccessibility compared with 25.0% (1 of 4) in clot migration cases in the direct EVT group (
P
=0.011).

Conclusions—

The incidence of clot migration was significantly increased in the setting of bridging IVT before EVT, leading to increased proportion of clot inaccessibility by EVT.
Trained Immunity Characteristics Are Associated With Progressive Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Noz Marlies P. , ter Telgte Annemieke , Wiegertjes Kim , Joosten Leo A. B. , Netea Mihai G. , de Leeuw Frank-Erik , Riksen Niels P.
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) is the major vascular cause of cognitive decline and dementia. The pathogenesis of cSVD remains largely unknown, although several studies suggest a role for systemic inflammation. In certain pathophysiological situations, monocytes can reprogram toward a long-term proinflammatory phenotype, which has been termed trained immunity. We hypothesize that trained immunity contributes to the progression of cSVD.

Methods—

Individuals with mild-to-severe cSVD participated in the study. Severity of cSVD was determined by the white matter hyperintensities (WMH) volume (mL) on magnetic resonance imaging in 2006, 2015, and the progression between 2006 and 2015 (ΔWMH). Cytokine production was assessed after ex vivo stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and monocytes. Additionally, monocyte subsets were identified by flow cytometry.

Results—

Fifty-one subjects (70±6 years, 60% men, 5.1±6.4 mL ΔWMH) were included. Circulating hsIL (high-sensitivity interleukin)-6 correlated with cSVD (
P
=0.005, r
s
=0.40). Cytokine production capacity by monocytes was associated with cSVD progression. Basal IL-8 and IL-17 production (
P
=0.08, r
s
=0.25;
P
=0.03, r
s
=0.30) and IL-6 production after Pam3Cys stimulation in monocytes was associated with cSVD (n=35:
P
=0.008, r
s
=0.44). Conversely, interferon (IFN)-γ production in
Candida
albicans
stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells was negatively correlated with cSVD (
P
=0.009, r
s
=−0.36). Flow cytometry revealed a correlation of the intermediate monocyte subset with cSVD (
P
=0.01, r
s
=0.36).

Conclusions—

Severity and progression of cSVD are not only correlated with systemic inflammation (hsIL-6) but also with trained immunity characteristics of circulating monocytes, in terms of an altered cytokine production capacity and a shift toward the proinflammatory intermediate monocyte subset.
Renal Function and Risk Stratification of Patients With Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source
Authors: Ntaios George , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Lambrou Dimitris , Michel Patrik , Perlepe Kalliopi , Eskandari Ashraf , Nannoni Stefania , Sirimarco Gaia , Strambo Davide , Vemmos Konstantinos , Koroboki Eleni , Manios Efstathios , Vemmou Anastasia , Rodríguez-Campello Ana , Cuadrado-Godia Elisa , Roquer Jaume , Arnao Valentina , Caso Valeria , Paciaroni Maurizio , Diez-Tejedor Exuperio , Fuentes Blanca , Rodríguez Pardo Jorge , Arauz Antonio , Ameriso Sebastian F. , Pertierra Lucía , Gómez-Schneider Maia , Hawkes Maximiliano A. , Bandini Fabio , Chavarria Cano Beatriz , Mohedano Ana Maria Iglesias , García Pastor Andrés , Gil-Núñez Antonio , Putaala Jukka , Tatlisumak Turgut , Barboza Miguel A. , Karagkiozi Efstathia , Makaritsis Konstantinos , Papavasileiou Vasileios
Published: December 2018

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to assess if renal function can aid in risk stratification for ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) recurrence and death in patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS).

Methods—

We pooled 12 ESUS datasets from Europe and America. Renal function was evaluated using the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and analyzed in continuous, binary, and categorical way. Cox-regression analyses assessed if renal function was independently associated with the risk for ischemic stroke/TIA recurrence and death. The Kaplan-Meier product limit method estimated the cumulative probability of ischemic stroke/TIA recurrence and death.

Results—

In 1530 patients with ESUS followed for 3260 patient-years, there were 237 recurrences (15.9%) and 201 deaths (13.4%), corresponding to 7.3 ischemic stroke/TIA recurrences and 5.6 deaths per 100 patient-years, respectively. Renal function was not associated with the risk for ischemic stroke/TIA recurrence when forced into the final multivariate model, regardless if it was analyzed as continuous (hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.99–1.00 for every 1 mL/min), binary (hazard ratio, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.87–1.73) or categorical covariate (likelihood-ratio test 2.59,
P
=0.63 for stroke recurrence). The probability of ischemic stroke/TIA recurrence across stages of renal function was 11.9% for eGFR ≥90, 16.6% for eGFR 60–89, 21.7% for eGFR 45–59, 19.2% for eGFR 30–44, and 24.9% for eGFR <30 (likelihood-ratio test 2.59,
P
=0.63). The results were similar for the outcome of death.

Conclusions—

The present study is the largest pooled individual patient-level ESUS dataset, and does not provide evidence that renal function can be used to stratify the risk of ischemic stroke/TIA recurrence or death in patients with ESUS.
Oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatida) from Austrocedrus chilensis and Nothofagus forests of Northwestern Patagonia (Argentina)
Authors: KUN MARCELO E. , MARTÍNEZ PABLO A. , GONZALEZ ALDA
Published: December 2018

Forest sites in Northwestern Argentinean Patagonia were surveyed to determine the oribatid mite fauna. A taxonomic inventory of oribatid mites was carried out in Northwestern Argentinean Patagonia to establish the taxonomic diversity, for increasing the knowledge of their distribution, detecting new species and assessing environmental effects on the oribatid mite community. Eleven sampling sites in nearly pure forests of Austrocedrus chilensis, Nothofagus dombeyi, Nothofagus antarctica were selected as these are among the most recurrent arboreal species found in this region. Samples of leaf litter, soil and pitfall traps contents were taken from each forest. Fifty-five oribatid species, belonging to 46 genera in 28 families, were found. Nine species are new records for Argentina and one for continental Argentina. Thirty-two species were recorded in A. chilensis forests, 35 in N. dombeyi forests and 20 in N. antarctica forests. Fifty species were found in leaf litter, 35 in soil and eight in pitfall traps. Fourteen species were recorded exclusively in leaf litter, one in soil and four in pitfall traps. A high level of endemism is confirmed as nearly 62 % of collected species have previously been found only in Southern Andes supporting the existence of an associated autochthonous oribatid fauna.
Shallow-water species of Beania Johnston, 1840 (Bryozoa, Cheilostomata) from the tropical and subtropical Western Atlantic
Authors: VIEIRA LEANDRO M. , MIGOTTO ALVARO E. , WINSTON JUDITH E.
Published: December 2018

This paper describes four new species of the bryozoan genus Beania from the Brazilian coast. Two of them have been previously recorded in the western Atlantic as Beania hirtissima (Heller, 1867) and Beania mirabilis Johnston, 1840, respectively; they are redescribed here as Beania americana n. sp. and Beania mirabilissima n. sp. Two reticulate species, Beania correiae n. sp. and Beania metrii n. sp., are newly described. Descriptions of four other species of Beania from the region are also included: Beania australis Busk, 1852, Beania cupulariensis Osburn, 1914, Beania klugei Cook, 1968 and Beania maxilladentata Ramalho, Muricy & Taylor, 2010.
A new species of the Lower Ordovician pliomerid trilobite Pseudocybele and its biostratigraphic significance
Authors: MCADAMS NEO E. B. , ADRAIN JONATHAN M.
Published: December 2018

A low diversity trilobite fauna consisting entirely of new species occurs at several horizons in the Blackhillsian Stage (Floian), in a narrow stratigraphic interval high in the Fillmore Formation in the southern Confusion Range, Ibex area, Millard County, western Utah. This is the type section of the Blackhillsian Stage, the highest of the four stages with comprise the Ibexian Series, the Laurentian Lower Ordovician. The interval occurs between the underlying Presbynileus ibexensis Zone and the overlying "Pseudocybele nasuta Zone". Previous studies assigned the interval to the P. nasuta Zone, but new collections show that the fauna is unique and shares no species with either the underlying or overlying assemblages. It was recognized in 2009 as the Pseudocybele paranasuta Zone, but the name bearer was not formally described. Pseudocybele paranasuta n. sp. is a distinctive pliomerid trilobite with diagnostic features including: clusters of granules on the frontal lobe of the glabella and the middle body of the hypostome; maculae along the lateral branches of the middle furrow of the hypostome; a short, slender median hypostomal spine; and a strong, W-shaped impression in the terminal piece of the pygidium.
The oldest fossil Ochodaeidae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea) from the Middle Jurassic of China
Authors: NIKOLAJEV G. V. , REN DONG
Published: December 2018

The relatively small family Ochodaeidae Mulsant & Rey, 1871 of the superfamily Scarabaeoidea Latreille, 1802 includes 13 genera and about 100 extant species and subspecies belonging to two subfamilies (Scholtz et al. 1988, Paulsen 2007, Nikolajev 2009). One more subfamily, Cretochodaeinae Nikolajev, 1995, is known only from fossils (Nikolajev 1995). In total, there are four known fossil species of Ochodaeidae belonging to three genera in two different subfamilies (Nikolajev 2007, Krell 2007). The monotypic genus Mioochodaeus Nikolajev, 1995 has been described from Oligocene Rott (Germany). The genera Cretochodaeus Nikolajev, 1995 and Lithochodaeus Nikolajev, 2007 are known from the Lower Cretaceous Bon-Tsagan (Mongolia).
New southeastern Nearctic Rhynchelmis (Rhynchelmoides) species and the description of Pararhynchelmis n. gen. (Annelida: Clitellata: Lumbriculidae)
Authors: FEND STEVEN V. , LENAT DAVID R.
Published: December 2018

The first verified records of Rhynchelmis from the southeastern Nearctic represent two new species. Both belong to R. (Rhynchelmoides) (Hrabě) n. comb., which is defined here. Rhynchelmis bolinensis n. sp. resembles other R. (Rhynchelmoides) species with elongate spermathecae, but differs in details of the reproductive structures. Rhynchelmis croatanensis n. sp. is similar in many respects, but the gonads and male and female pores are shifted anteriad by one segment, a character previously unknown within the genus. Pararhynchelmis murdocki n. gen., n. sp. has the spermathecal pores in VIII and IX and male pores in X, and the spermathecae connect to the gut. These characters associate the new species with Rhynchelmis, but the combination of differences in morphology or arrangement of atria, spermathecae, blood vessels and nephridia, and the absence of a proboscis, suggest that it be placed in a related genus. Rhynchelmis bolinensis was collected at several sites in North Carolina, but the other two species are known only from single localities.
Description of the immature female instars of Ceroplastes rusci (Linnaeus) (Hemiptera: Coccidae)
Authors: PELLIZZARI GIUSEPPINA , RAINATO ALESSIO , STATHAS GEORGE J.
Published: December 2018

The immature female instars of the fig wax scale, Ceroplastes rusci (L.), are redescribed and illustrated here with the aim of improving our knowledge on its morphology and phenology by the correct identification of the pest stages present on the host plant. A key to different instars is also provided. The biology of this species, which has recently increased in abundance in fig cultivation areas in Messinia (Greece), is briefly discussed.
Unravelling phylogenetic relationships among regionally co-existing species: Hydropsyche species (Trichoptera: Hydropsychidae) in the Loire River
Authors: STATZNER BERNHARD , DOUADY CHRISTOPHE J. , KONECNY LARA , DOLÉDEC SYLVAIN
Published: December 2018

Taxonomy is undoubtedly complementary to other fields in biology such as ecology, and both ecologists and taxonomists increasingly acknowledge that they can profit from phylogenetic ecology or ecological phylogeny, respectively. However, such mutual relations between these disciplines are constrained by traditional focuses on different operational scales: taxonomists are more familiar with large scales (e.g., global, continental, many species of a given clade), whereas ecologists are more familiar with small scales (regional, ecosystems, habitats, few species of a given clade). To foster mutually fruitful, 2-way exchanges between taxonomy and ecology at such smaller scales requires assessments of the small-scale performance of taxonomic practices so far used at larger scales. Such assessments are the objective of this study. To combine quantified ecology and phylogeny at the smaller scale, we designed a research project using 9 species of Hydropsyche (Trichoptera) from the Loire River (i.e., we focus on the regional scale). Here, we tried to unravel the phylogenetic relationships of this regional set of species using (1) many different characters (molecular and morphological characters of larvae and adults), (2) taxonomic congruence instead of total evidence (as the former provides more opportunities for future research on links between different data sets), and (3) an explicit data matrix and analysis methods that are commonly recommended for phylogenetic studies (e.g., maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, bootstrapping), and we also included traditional, parsimonious, phylogenetic reasoning. Combining these elements, we obtained the following information for the regional Hydropsyche representatives from the Loire: (1) phylogenetic clusters of the species, (2) phylogenetic distances among the species, and (3) phylogenetic polarities of characters (plesioto apomorphies) in the species tree. For our future ecological studies, this will enable (1) establishment of priorities in species selections for experimental approaches, (2) establishment of relationships between ecological and phylogenetic distances, and (3) interpretation of ecological response gradients across the species in the context of evolutionary processes such as adaptation, niche conservatism, or fitness. These future ecological studies will provide elements that in turn should be useful for taxonomists wishing to include small-scale ecological data into their analyses.
Taxonomy and distribution of the genus Pterydrias Reitter and confirmation of its synonymy with Eorhipidius Iablokoff-Khnzorian (Coleoptera: Ripiphoridae: Ripidiinae)
Authors: BATELKA JAN , HÁJEK JIŘÍ
Published: December 2018

Taxonomy and distribution of the genus Pterydrias Reitter, 1895 (Coleoptera: Ripiphoridae: Ripidiinae) are revised. Based on examination of the type material, the genus Pterydrias is confirmed as a senior synonym of the genus Eorhipidius Iablokoff-Khnzorian, 1986. Pterydrias debilis Reitter, 1895 is redescribed and illustrated, and its type locality is corrected to Haifa, Israel. The following new combinations are established: Pterydrias januschevi (IablokoffKhnzorian, 1986) comb. nov., P. jelineki (Batelka & Hájek, 2009) comb. nov., P. loebli (Batelka & Hájek, 2009) comb. nov., and P. ruzickai (Batelka & Hájek, 2009) comb. nov. (all from Eorhipidius). An identification key to all species is provided and their distributions are mapped.
Atmospheric Motion Vectors Derived from an Infrared Window Channel of a Geostationary Satellite Using Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Chuang Wei-Liang , Chou Chien-Ben , Chang Kuang-An , Chang Yu-Cheng , Chin Hsin-Lung
Published: December 2018

As the new-generation geostationary satellite Himawari-8 provides a greater frequency and more observation channels than its predecessor, the Multifunctional Transport Satellite series (e.g., MTSAT-2), an opportunity arises to generate atmospheric motion vectors (AMVs) with an increased accuracy and extensive distribution over eastern Asia. In this work AMVs were derived from consecutive images of an infrared-window channel (IR1) of the Himawari-8 satellite using particle image velocimetry (PIV) based on the theory of cross-correlation schemes. A multipass scheme and an adaptive interrogation scheme were also employed to increase spatial resolution and accuracy. For height assignment, an infrared-window method was applied for opaque cloud, while an H2O-intercept method was employed for semitransparent cloud. Validation was conducted by comparing the PIV-derived AMVs with wind fields obtained from NWP analysis, radiosonde observations, and the operational system from the Meteorological Satellite Center (MSC) of the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) or JMA/MSC. The comparison of wind velocity maps with the NWP data shows that the PIV-derived AMVs are capable of quantitatively depicting full-field wind field maps and strong jets in atmospheric circulation. Through comparisons with radiosonde observations, the root-mean-square error and wind speed bias (4.29 and −1.05 m s−1) of the PIV-derived AMVs are comparable to, although slightly greater than, that of the NWP data (3.88 and −0.26 m s−1). Based on comparison between the PIV-derived AMVs and wind fields obtained from the JMA/MSC operational system, the PIV-derived AMVs are again comparable, producing a slightly lower error but a larger wind speed bias (−1.05 vs 0.20 m s−1). This also implies that a better height assignment algorithm is necessary.
Contributions of Atmosphere–Ocean Interaction and Low-Frequency Variation to Intensity of Strong El Niño Events since 1979
Authors: Li Xiaofan , Hu Zeng-Zhen , Huang Bohua
Published: December 2018

Evolutions of oceanic and atmospheric anomalies in the equatorial Pacific during four strong El Niños (1982/83, 1991/92, 1997/98, and 2015/16) since 1979 are compared. The contributions of the atmosphere–ocean coupling to El Niño–associated sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) are identified and their association with low-level winds as well as different time-scale variations is examined. Although overall SSTA in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific is strongest and comparable in the 1997/98 and 2015/16 El Niños, the associated subsurface ocean temperature as well as deep convection and surface wind stress anomalies in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific are weaker during 2015/16 than that during 1997/98. That may be associated with a variation of the wind–SST and wind–thermocline interactions. Both the wind–SST and wind–thermocline interactions play a less important role during 2015/16 than during 1997/98. Such differences are associated with the differences of the low-level westerly wind as well as the contribution of different time-scale variations in different events. Similar to the interannual time-scale variation, the intraseasonal–interseasonal time-scale component always has positive contributions to the intensity of all four strong El Niños. Interestingly, the role of the interdecadal-trend time-scale component varies with event. The contribution is negligible during the 1982/83 El Niño, negative during the 1997/98 El Niño, and positive during the 1991/92 and 2015/16 El Niños. Thus, in addition to the atmosphere–ocean coupling at intraseasonal to interannual time scales, interdecadal and longer time-scale variations may play an important and sometimes crucial role in determining the intensity of El Niño.
Assessing Seasonal Predictability Sources and Windows of High Predictability in the Climate Forecast System, Version 2
Authors: Miller Douglas E. , Wang Zhuo
Published: December 2018

The representation of ENSO and NAO are examined in the Climate Forecast System, version 2 (CFSv2), reforecasts with a focus on the physical processes related to teleconnections and predictability. CFSv2 predicts ENSO well, but an eastward shift of the tropical Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies is evident. Although it appears minor on the global scale, the shift in convection and the large-scale wave train affects the model prediction of regional climate. In contrast, NAO is predicted poorly. The anomaly correlation coefficient (ACC) between the model ensemble mean and the observation is 0.27 during 1982–2010, and the ensemble spread is large. The representation of three sources of NAO predictability—SST, the stratospheric polar vortex, and the Arctic sea ice concentration—is investigated. It is found that the link between tropical Pacific SST and NAO is not well represented in CFSv2, and that the tropospheric–stratospheric interactions are too weak, both contributing to the poor prediction of NAO. Additionally, the impact of ENSO and NAO on prediction skill of CFSv2 in boreal winter is analyzed in terms of the spatial ACC of geopotential height. Active ENSO events exhibit larger prediction skill than neutral years, especially during the ENSO+/NAO− and ENSO−/NAO+ winters. Spatial patterns of prediction skill are also examined, and larger skill of geopotential height and 2-m air temperature is found outlined by the nodes of the PNA pattern, consistent with the large signal-to-noise ratios associated with the ENSO teleconnection.
Impact of Future Climate and Vegetation on the Hydrology of an Arctic Headwater Basin at the Tundra–Taiga Transition
Authors: Krogh Sebastian A. , Pomeroy John W.
Published: December 2018

The rapidly warming Arctic is experiencing permafrost degradation and shrub expansion. Future climate projections show a clear increase in mean annual temperature and increasing precipitation in the Arctic; however, the impact of these changes on hydrological cycling in Arctic headwater basins is poorly understood. This study investigates the impact of climate change, as represented by simulations using a high-resolution atmospheric model under a pseudo-global-warming configuration, and projected changes in vegetation, using a spatially distributed and physically based Arctic hydrological model, on a small headwater basin at the tundra–taiga transition in northwestern Canada. Climate projections under the RCP8.5 emission scenario show a 6.1°C warming, a 38% increase in annual precipitation, and a 19 W m−2 increase in all-wave annual irradiance over the twenty-first century. Hydrological modeling results suggest a shift in hydrological processes with maximum peak snow accumulation increasing by 70%, snow-cover duration shortening by 26 days, active layer deepening by 0.25 m, evapotranspiration increasing by 18%, and sublimation decreasing by 9%. This results in an intensification of the hydrological regime by doubling discharge volume, a 130% increase in spring runoff, and earlier and larger peak streamflow. Most hydrological changes were found to be driven by climate change; however, increasing vegetation cover and density reduced blowing snow redistribution and sublimation, and increased evaporation from intercepted rainfall. This study provides the first detailed investigation of projected changes in climate and vegetation on the hydrology of an Arctic headwater basin, and so it is expected to help inform larger-scale climate impact studies in the Arctic.
Timing Is Everything: The Utility of Time-Series Analysis to Capture Causality in Qualitative Case-Based Policy Inquiry
Authors: Kerrigan Monica Reid , Johnson Ane Turner
Published: December 2018

While policy researchers call for new approaches to support the analysis of complex policies, the dominance of experimental and quasi-experimental designs limits the field’s possibilities. Innovative yet rigorous qualitative methods have been overlooked, despite strong arguments by seminal qualitative methodologists about the appropriateness of qualitative research for inquiry situated in particular contexts and that recognizes the influence of time, place, people, and belief systems on outcomes. We argue that qualitative time-series analysis is one such overlooked approach that has greater potential for educational policy research because of its ability to address complexity in causal relationships. This article contributes to the policy and methodological literature in two ways: First, by providing a synthesis of available methodological literature on qualitative time-series analysis; and second, by providing two illustrative qualitative case studies that used different time-series approaches to examine policy development over time while accounting for the contextual factors and meaning-making that inform policy and shape the policy process. The article concludes with a discussion of the contribution of qualitative time-series analysis for policy research with examples from the cases.
The “War on Drugs” in Mexico: (Official) Database of Events between December 2006 and November 2011
Authors: Atuesta Laura H. , Siordia Oscar S. , Lajous Alejandro Madrazo
Published: December 2018

The objective of this text is to describe the three categories that the Drug Policy Program at the Center for Teaching and Research in Economics (CIDE-PPD) database comprises, their limitations, and their main features. Additionally, we explain what we believe to be the source of the database we originally received and analyze its accuracy by comparing it with public records. We describe the validation and codification processes the database was subjected to, as well as the main biases and limitations the database may have. Additionally, we offer a preliminary analysis of the type of research that the CIDE-PPD Database can support. This analysis is not only relevant to those interested in studying the “war on drugs” in Mexico but also to those studying conflict in other countries involved in illegal drug production and trafficking, as well as countries experiencing conflicts related to organized crime.
Effects of the Instruction in Inferring Meanings From Context on the Comprehension of Middle School Students at Frustration Reading Level
Authors: Ilter Ilhan
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the context clue instruction program to infer meaning from context as a way to enhance reading comprehension. Participants were fifth-grade middle school students (four boys) who were at a frustration reading level (initial comprehension score range = 40%-48%) at their grade level. In addition, one student served as a control participant and did not any receive instruction in this study. A multiple-baseline across-students design was used. All the instruction for the three experimental participants was one on one using the direct instruction method. Maintenance of treatment effects was probed at 2, 4, and 6 weeks following the intervention for Participants 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The results demonstrated that the instructional program produced increases in all three experimental participants’ comprehension scores to above 70% (range = 75%-82%) as measured by the short-answer questions; thus, they found they achieved an instructional level score in their comprehension after the instruction. The social validity results confirmed that participants enjoyed the intervention, and had a better understanding of what they read through individual experience on the strategy of learning from context. The information gained from this study suggested that a strategy instruction concerning the use of context clues may be a useful component (Tier 2 setting) of response to intervention (RTI) model for students who struggle with reading comprehension.
Secondary Discipline: The Unintended Consequences of Zero Tolerance School Discipline for Low-Income Black and Latina Mothers
Authors: Dunning-Lozano Jessica L.
Published: December 2018

Utilizing ethnographic data from a public Grade 6 to 12 Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) in Texas, this article examines the frequently overlooked impact of zero tolerance school discipline on parents. The analysis focuses on three disciplinary practices: (a) Mandatory Parent/Student Orientation, (b) Night Classes, and (c) Requests for parent–staff meetings. Findings reveal the DAEP exposed parents, in particular low-income, Black and Latina mothers, to what I term “secondary discipline,” where they became targets of program discipline alongside their children. Secondary discipline was not neutrally applied to all parents by program staff, but was informed by racialized, classed, and gendered discourses.
Fracture toughness enhancement of carbon fiber–reinforced polymer composites utilizing additive manufacturing fabrication
Authors: Akasheh Firas , Aglan Heshmat
Published: December 2018

The present work reports a novel approach to enhance the fracture resistance and notch sensitivity of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composites utilizing additive manufacturing (3-D printing) fabrication. The 3-D printed composites utilize carbon fiber bundles to reinforce nylon/chopped fiber resin in a multilayered structure configuration. Single-edge (60°) notched samples were printed using Mark Two printer. Three reinforcement schemes were designed and used to manufacture the specimens. The focus was placed on selective reinforcement at the crack tip to arrest crack initiation. The mechanical properties, fracture toughness, and fracture behavior of the printed composites were evaluated. It was found that wrapping fiber around the notch effectively blunted the notch and redirected crack propagation away from the notch tip, thereby lengthening the crack path and leading to improved fracture resistance. It was also found that such improvement reaches a saturation level. Excessive notch reinforcement beyond optimal limit can reverse the gains in fracture resistance due to notch-targeted reinforcement. Examination of the fracture surface morphology of the printed composites reveals lack of fusion of the sizing of the individual continuous carbon fiber bundles and the lack of adhesion between the matrix layers (nylon/chopped fiber resin) and the adjacent carbon fiber bundle reinforcement. Damage to the fibers within the carbon bundle was also observed. Thus, a synergetic effect of the carbon fiber bundles reinforcement and the matrix requires more optimization to manufacture carbon-reinforced polymer composites using 3-D printing.
Solidarity or Sanctuary? A Global Strategy for Migrant Rights
Authors: Foerster Amy
Published: December 2018

This article explores municipal challenges to nation-state-based immigration and migration policy, as exemplified in the sanctuary city movement in the United States, the solidarity city concept as it emerged in Canada, and the more recent Solidarity Cities initiative based in the European Union. By examining the divergent history and goals of these initiatives, the article also offers an overview of the conflicts and countermobilization that have erupted regarding urban-based sanctuary, refuge and solidarity policies and movements, and offers conclusions regarding how global strategies regarding sanctuary, migrant rights, and justice are being formed.
Interactive Processes in Grief and Couples’ Adjustment After the Death of a Child
Authors: Albuquerque Sara , Ferreira Luana Cunha , Narciso Isabel , Pereira Marco
Published: December 2018

The death of a child is an individual process of grief but also a context of significant relational processes, which have been only rarely considered in research. The aim of this study was to examine the interactive processes within bereaved parents. Eighteen married bereaved parents were interviewed individually. The semistructured script included questions about the couples’ relationship after the death of the child, particularly the relational dynamics and the association between the individual and relational realms. Data analysis using constructivist grounded theory allowed for the development of a circular hypothesis, suggesting that parents’ individual grief influences and is influenced by the couple’s relationship and partner support, involving interdependence and patterns of emotional transmission (empathy and emotion contagion) within the couple. The findings suggested that psychological interventions should include the dyadic level to optimize mutual support and the benefits obtained within marital interactions.
Postdivorce Coparenting Relationships and Parent–Youth Relationships: Are Repartnership and Parent–Youth Contact Moderators?
Authors: Beckmeyer Jonathon J. , Markham Melinda Stafford , Troilo Jessica
Published: December 2018

Using data from 392 divorced mothers and fathers, living in the United States, with a child between 10 and 18 years old, we first identified three types of postdivorce coparenting relationships ( cooperative, moderately engaged, and conflictual and disengaged) based on coparenting communication, cooperation, and conflict. We then tested if three aspects of parent–youth relationships differed between those groups. Parental warmth and support, parental knowledge, and inconsistent discipline did not differ based on the type of postdivorce coparenting relationship participants had with their ex-spouses. Finally, we tested if repartnership (i.e., being remarried or cohabiting with a new partner) or parent–youth contact moderated the associations between postdivorce coparenting and parent–youth relationships. There was one significant moderation effect. When parent–youth contact was monthly or less, parental knowledge appears lower in the conflictual and disengaged cluster compared with the other two clusters.
Balloons and Stents and Scaffolds: Preclinical Evaluation of Interventional Devices for Occlusive Arterial Disease
Authors: Perkins Laura E. Leigh , Rippy Marian K.
Published: December 2018

Atherosclerosis places a significant burden on humankind; it is the leading cause of mortality globally, and for those living with atherosclerosis, it can significantly impact quality of life. Fortunately, treatment advances have effectively reduced the morbidity and mortality related to atherosclerosis, with one such modality being percutaneous intervention (PCI) to open occluded arteries. Over the 40-year history of PCI, preclinical models have played a critical role in demonstrating proof of concept, characterizing the in vivo behavior (pharmacokinetics, degradation) and providing a reasonable assurance of biologic safety of interventional devices before entering into clinical trials. Further, preclinical models may provide insight into the potential efficacy of these devices with the appropriate study design and end points. While several species have been used in the evaluation of interventional devices, the porcine model has been the principal model used in the evaluation of safety of devices for both coronary and endovascular treatments. This article reviews the fundamentals of permanent stents, transient scaffolds, and drug-coated balloons and the models, objectives, and methods used in their preclinical evaluation.
Medical Device Histology and Pathology: A Horse of a Different Color
Authors: Paulin Jaime , Rousselle Serge D. , Fossey Stacey
Published: December 2018

Medical devices comprise a wide variety of therapeutic tools aimed at modulating or restoring organ function. Devices may be implanted or activated temporally or permanently, and are used to deliver a wide range of therapies such as drugs, electrical stimulation, laser, thermal energy, offer mechanical support, and restore sensory functions. Technological advancements allow improvement and development of devices at a rapid pace. This special issue of Toxicologic Pathology addresses a need for more publications focused on pathology evaluation of medical devices in preclinical studies and highlights fundamental approaches through practical examples bringing into perspective the essential role of pathologists in this field.
Sulfone-modified chitosan as selective adsorbent for the extraction of toxic Hg(II) metal ions
Authors: Al-Ghamdi Youssef O , Alamry Khalid A , Hussein Mahmoud A , Marwani Hadi M , Asiri Abdullah M
Published: December 2018

In this study, a new category of sulfone-modified chitosan derivatives as surface-selective adsorbents for the extraction of toxic Hg(II) metal has been synthesized in good yield. Sulfone-modified chitosan/5–20 based on variable loading of the corresponding phenacyl bromide (5, 10, 15, and 20% with respect to the original weight of the pure chitosan) was synthesized. The β-ketosulfone derivative, namely 1–(4-bromophenyl)-2-(phenylsulfonyl)ethanone, was first prepared by treatment of the corresponding phenacyl bromide with a sufficient amount of sodium benzene sulfinate; its chemical structure was confirmed by spectral analyses, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and mass spectrometry. Then, sulfone-modified chitosan/5–20 derivatives were synthesized by the interaction of chitosan with a freshly prepared p-bromo-β-ketosulfone derivative in a mildly acidic aqueous solution using the solution-blending technique. Sulfone-modified chitosan/5–20 derivatives were identified and characterized using common characterization techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ﬁeld-emission scanning electron microscope, powder X-ray diffraction, and thermal behaviour. A strong interaction was displayed between chitosan and its corresponding β-ketosulfones in powder X-ray diffraction, which was confirmed by significant 2θ shifts. Sulfone-modified chitosan/5–20 derivatives were detected as catalysts, which efficiently increased the thermal decomposition of pure chitosan. More particularly, the efficiency of sulfone-modified chitosan/5–20 derivatives for Hg(II), Pb(II), Ni(II), Al(III), Sr(II), Cr(III), Fe(III), Zn(II), and Mn(II) detection and adsorption was also investigated using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The sulfone-modified chitosan/5 derivative exhibited the highest adsorption efficiency. The most effective quantitative adsorption onto the sulfone-modified chitosan/5 surface was detected at pH = 2. In addition to that, the adsorption isotherm showed that the adsorption capacity of sulfone-modified chitosan/5 for Hg(II) was 122.47 mg g−1 and that its adsorption isotherm was in agreement with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm.