bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Modulator Effect of Total Extract from the Endophytic Paenibacillus polymyxa RNC-D in Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis and Macrophages
Authors: Neris Débora Meira , Ortolani Letícia Gonçalves , Castro Cynthia Aparecida de , Correia Ricardo de Oliveira , Rodolpho Joice Margareth de Almeida , Camillo Luciana , Nogueira Camila Tita , Sousa Cristina Paiva de , Anibal Fernanda de Freitas
Published: August 2020

Leishmaniases are diseases with high epidemiological relevance and wide geographical distribution. In Brazil, Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis is related to the tegumentary form of leishmaniasis. The treatment for those diseases is problematic as the available drugs promote adverse effects in patients. Therefore, it is important to find new therapeutic targets. In this regard, one alternative is the study of biomolecules produced by endophytic microorganisms. In this study, the total extract produced by the endophytic Paenibacillus polymyxa RNC-D was used to evaluate the leishmanicidal, nitric oxide, and cytokines production using RAW 264.7 macrophages. The results showed that, in the leishmanicidal assay with L. amazonensis, EC50 values at the periods of 24 and 48 hours were 0.624 mg/mL and 0.547 mg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the cells treated with the extract presented approximately 25% of infected cells with an average of 3 amastigotes/cell in the periods of 24 and 48 hours. Regarding the production of cytokines in RAW 264.7 macrophages infected/treated with the extract, a significant increase in TNF-α was observed at the periods of 24 and 48 hours in the treated cells. The concentrations of IFN-γ and IL-12 showed significant increase in 48 hours. A significant decrease in IL-4 was observed in all cells treated with the extract in 24 hours. It was observed in the treated cells that the NO production by RAW 264.7 macrophages increased between 48 and 72 hours. The endophytic Paenibacillus polymyxa RNC-D extract modulates the mediators of inflammation produced by RAW 264.7 macrophages promoting L. amazonensis death. The immunomodulatory effects might be a promising target to develop new immunotherapeutic and antileishmanial drugs.
Risk Factors of Portal Vein Thrombosis after Devascularization Treatment in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Nested Case‐Control Study
Authors: Lu Shenxin , Hu Guohua , Chen Shiyao , Wang Jian
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim. To investigate the incidence of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) after devascularization treatment and to explore the risk factors of perioperative PVT and PVT diagnosed during the follow‐up period after surgery. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed medical records from cirrhosis patients who underwent devascularization for the treatment of portal hypertension in our hospital between January 1, 2008, and December 20, 2014. Patients were followed up to investigate the PVT incidence at different times after surgery. Patients were divided into two groups (PVT, no PVT), and the risk factors for PVT after surgery were determined. Results. Until October 16, 2015, the median follow‐up time of the 124 patients enrolled into this study was 41.43 months (range, 5.47–95.30 months). 61 patients had perioperative PVT, and 21 (16.94%) patients had PVT diagnosed during the follow‐up period. Those who had lower preoperative white blood cell counts, larger preoperative portal vein trunk diameter, and no gastric varices were more likely to have perioperative thrombosis. In those without perioperative PVT, a history of hypertension, higher grade of splenomegaly, and higher preoperative levels of creatinine were independent predictors of PVT occurrence during the follow‐up period. Conclusions. The risk factors for perioperative PVT in cirrhotic patients after devascularization were lower preoperative white blood cell count and larger portal vein trunk diameter, with no gastric varices. A history of hypertension, a larger spleen, and higher preoperative creatinine level are independent predictors of PVT during follow‐up after surgery in patients without perioperative PVT.
Risk of Persistent Opioid Use following Major Surgery in Matched Samples of Patients with and without Cancer
Authors: Falcone Mary , Luo Chongliang , Chen Yong , Birtwell David , Cheatle Martin , Duan Rui , Gabriel Peter E. , He Lifang , Ko Emily M. , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Mirkovic Nebojsa , Mowery Danielle L. , Ochroch E. Andrew , Paulson E. Carter , Schriver Emily , Schnoll Robert A. , Bekelman Justin E. , Lerman Caryn
Published: August 2020

Background:

The opioid crisis has reached epidemic proportions, yet risk of persistent opioid use following curative intent surgery for cancer and factors influencing this risk are not well understood.

Methods:

We used electronic health record data from 3,901 adult patients who received a prescription for an opioid analgesic related to hysterectomy or large bowel surgery from January 1, 2013, through June 30, 2018. Patients with and without a cancer diagnosis were matched on the basis of demographic, clinical, and procedural variables and compared for persistent opioid use.

Results:

Cancer diagnosis was associated with greater risk for persistent opioid use after hysterectomy [18.9% vs. 9.6%; adjusted OR (aOR), 2.26; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.38–3.69; P = 0.001], but not after large bowel surgery (28.3% vs. 24.1%; aOR 1.25; 95% CI, 0.97–1.59; P = 0.09). In the cancer hysterectomy cohort, persistent opioid use was associated with cancer stage (increased rates among those with stage III cancer compared with stage I) and use of neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy; however, these factors were not associated with persistent opioid use in the large bowel cohort.

Conclusions:

Patients with cancer may have an increased risk of persistent opioid use following hysterectomy.

Impact:

Risks and benefits of opioid analgesia for surgical pain among patients with cancer undergoing hysterectomy should be carefully considered.
Changes in Dietary Inflammatory Index Patterns with Weight Loss in Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Duggan Catherine , Tapsoba Jean de Dieu , Shivappa Nitin , Harris Holly R. , Hébert James R. , Wang Ching-Yun , McTiernan Anne
Published: August 2020

Dietary composition can influence systemic inflammation; higher levels of circulating inflammatory biomarkers are associated with increased risk of breast and other cancers. A total of 438 overweight/obese, healthy, postmenopausal women were randomized to a caloric-restriction diet (goal: 10% weight-loss), aerobic-exercise (225 min/week moderate-to-vigorous activity), combined diet+exercise, or control. Dietary inflammatory index (DII) and energy-adjusted (E-DII) scores were derived from food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) and could be calculated for 365 participants with complete FFQs at baseline and 12 months. Changes from baseline to 12 months in E-DII scores in the intervention arms versus controls were analyzed using generalized estimating equations, adjusted for confounders. We examined associations between changes in previously measured biomarkers and E-DII at 12 months. Participants randomized to diet and diet+exercise arms had greater reductions in E-DII (−104.4% and −84.4%), versus controls (−34.8%, both P < 0.001). Weight change had a more marked effect than E-DII change on biomarkers at 12-months; associations between E-DII and biomarker changes were reduced after adjustment by weight change. Changes in E-DII at 12 months, adjusted for weight change, were negatively associated with changes in ghrelin [r = −0.19; P = 0.05 (diet), r = −0.29; P = 0.02 (diet+exercise)], and positively with VEGF [r = 0.22; P = 0.03 (diet+exercise)], and red blood cell counts [r = 0.30; P = 0.004 (exercise)]. C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL6 levels were not associated with E-DII changes at 12 months. In conclusion, a behavior change of low-calorie, low-fat diet significantly reduces dietary inflammatory potential, modulating biomarkers that are associated with tumorigenesis, such as VEGF, but not CRP or IL6.

Prevention Relevance:

Diets high in saturated fats and low in fruit and vegetable intake are associated with increased inflammation, which increases cancer risk. This study showed that changes in diet quality had effects on factors associated with cancer; however, the majority of beneficial effects were associated with weight loss rather than diet quality.
Upper Endoscopic Surveillance in Lynch Syndrome Detects Gastric and Duodenal Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Kumar Shria , Dudzik Christina M. , Reed Mallory , Long Jessica M. , Wangensteen Kirk J. , Katona Bryson W.
Published: August 2020

Lynch syndrome is a prevalent hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome. While colorectal cancer is the most common gastrointestinal (GI) cancer in Lynch syndrome, there is also increased risk of gastric and small intestinal cancers. Recommendations for upper GI cancer surveillance in Lynch syndrome vary widely with limited data supporting effectiveness. Herein, we collected data on individuals with a diagnosis of Lynch syndrome seen at our tertiary care referral center. We identified individuals who underwent upper endoscopy and those with upper GI cancers, and associated demographics, genetic testing results, and endoscopic information. Standard statistical analyses were performed. Among 295 individuals with Lynch syndrome seen at our center, 217 (73.6%) underwent 660 total upper endoscopies. Of these 217, precancerous upper endoscopy findings included Barrett's esophagus (7, 3.2%), gastric intestinal metaplasia (18, 8.3%), and duodenal adenomas (4, 1.8%), and Helicobacter pylori was identified in 6 (2.8%). Upper GI cancers were diagnosed in 11 individuals (3.7%), including esophageal in 1, gastric in 6, and duodenal in 4. Five (1.7%) of these upper GI cancers were identified on surveillance. Individuals with upper GI cancers identified on surveillance were older at first surveillance endoscopy, with median age 63.3 versus 44.9 years (P < 0.001). Of the upper GI cancers detected on surveillance, 80% (4/5) occurred within 2 years of last upper endoscopy and 80% were stage I. In conclusion, upper endoscopy surveillance in Lynch syndrome identifies upper GI cancers. For individuals with Lynch syndrome who undergo upper GI surveillance, a short surveillance interval may be warranted.
BAP1-Keimbahnmutation beim bilateralen primären uvealen Melanom
Authors: Seibel Ira
Published: August 2020

Purpose: To describe the occurrence of bilateral primary uveal melanoma in 2 patients with mutation on the gene encoding BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1). Methods: Retrospective chart review of patients with bilateral primary uveal melanoma and subsequent positive germline BAP1 mutation. Results: There were 2 patients with bilateral uveal melanoma and BAP1 germline positivity. Neither patient demonstrated oculodermal melanocytosis. Patient 1 underwent enucleation of his right eye (OD) at the age of 44 years for a 9.6-mm-thick choroidal melanoma. He returned 4 years later with a 10.0-mm-thick choroidal melanoma in his left eye (OS) and was treated with plaque radiotherapy. He had a strong family history of cancer, and clinical testing for germline BAP1 mutation identified a pathogenic mutation in BAP1. At the 18-month follow-up, visual acuity was 20/200 OS without evidence of systemic metastasis. Patient 2 initially presented at age 54 years with extensive, diffuse iris melanoma OD, initially treated with plaque radiotherapy, but local recurrence after 3 years necessitated enucleation. Four years later, a 6.0-mm-thick ciliary body melanoma OS was found and successfully treated with plaque radiotherapy. Clinical testing for germline BAP1 mutation identified a pathogenic mutation in BAP1. At the 8-year follow-up, visual acuity was 20/40 OS without evidence of local recurrence or systemic metastasis. The patient expired secondary to an unrelated brain infarction. Conclusion: Bilateral uveal melanoma is exceedingly rare. Patients with bilateral uveal melanoma, especially when coincident with remote systemic cancers or a family history of cancer, should be evaluated for germline BAP1 mutation. Lifelong monitoring for related systemic malignancies is advised.
CT-Guided Percutaneous Trigeminal Tractotomy-Nucleotomy for Intractable Craniofacial Pain
Authors: Bekar Ahmet , Eser Ocak Pinar , Taskapilioglu M. Ozgur , Turkkan Alper
Published: August 2020

Object: In this report, we aimed to analyze the outcome results of our patients who underwent percutaneous trigeminal tractotomy (TR) and nucleotomy (NC) procedures, which are defined as destructive procedures targeting the descending trigeminal tractus and nucleus caudalis of the spinal trigeminal nucleus, respectively, for intractable craniofacial pain. Methods: The medical records of a total of 12 patients who underwent a total of 14 computed tomography (CT)-guided TR-NC procedures at our clinics between 2005 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: A significant increase in patients’ performance status (p = 0.015) as well as a significant decrease in the VAS score (p < 0.001) were achieved. Grade I pain relief (VAS = 0, no pain) was established in 66.7% of the patients, whereas grade II pain relief was observed in the remaining patients. Two of the patients suffered from recurrent pain after the initial procedure. Both patients underwent a second trigeminal TR-NC procedure, and grade I pain relief was re-established. The mean VAS score at 3-month follow-up was 1.4 ± 1.1, whereas this score at 6-month follow-up was 2 ± 1.3. The trigeminal TR-NC procedure resulted in a significant decrease in patients’ VAS scores at 3- and 6-month follow-up visits compared with preoperative VAS scores (p < 0.001). Transient ataxia was noted in only one patient (8.3%) early after the procedure. Conclusions: The results presented in the current study support the efficacy of the percutaneous CT-guided trigeminal TR-NC procedure in the management of intractable facial pain in selected patients. The use of CT guidance allows direct visualization of the target area, thereby enhancing the safety and success of the procedure.
Lactoferrin Expression Is Not Associated with Late-Onset Sepsis in Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Strunk Tobias , Hibbert Julie Elizabeth , Doherty Dorota , Nathan Elizabeth , Simmer Karen , Patole Sanjay Keshav , Trend Stephanie , Richmond Peter , Burgner David , Currie Andrew
Published: August 2020

Background: Preterm infants are at a high risk of developing late-onset sepsis (LOS). Lactoferrin is one of the most abundant endogenous antimicrobial proteins expressed in breast milk, stools, and blood, and a candidate for preventive intervention. Large clinical trials have recently investigated whether enteral supplementation with bovine lactoferrin reduces LOS. Aim: To characterize lactoferrin levels in preterm infants with and without LOS during the first month of life. Methods: Very preterm and term infants were recruited and serial biosamples collected during the first month of life. Lactoferrin levels were determined by immunoassay in cord blood and peripheral blood on days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28; in the stools on days 1 and 28; and in the mother’s breast milk on days 7 and 21. Furthermore, we assessed the capacity of the peripheral blood to release lactoferrin in response to an in vitro challenge with live Staphylococcus epidermidis, lipopolysaccharide, and fibroblast-stimulating lipopeptide 1. Results: Plasma lactoferrin levels were higher in cord blood and day 1 peripheral blood and declined during the first month of life. Plasma lactoferrin levels were similar in term infants and in preterm infants with (n = 32) and without LOS (n = 53). S. epidermidis-induced lactoferrin levels were lower following the sepsis episode. Conclusions: Endogenous lactoferrin expression in preterm infants does not appear to affect their risk of developing LOS. These findings are in line with the lack of benefit recently observed in large trials of enteral supplementation with bovine lactoferrin to prevent LOS.
Podocyte Involvement in Renal Thrombotic Microangiopathy: A Clinicopathological Study
Authors: Hu Yi-Fang , Tan Ying , Yu Xiao-Juan , Wang Hui , Wang Su-Xia , Yu Feng , Zhao Ming-Hui
Published: August 2020

Background: The current study aimed to evaluate the associations between podocyte injury and clinicopathological features in renal thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) based on a Chinese cohort, which might be underscored in this disease. Methods: The clinical, laboratory, and renal histopathological data of patients with renal biopsy-proven TMA from 2000 to 2015 in our institute were collected. Foot process effacement (FPE) was quantified by foot process width (FPW) by electron microscopy. Podocytes in the renal specimens were also detected by stainings for podocyte-specific markers, including Wilms tumor 1 (WT-1), synaptopodin, and podocalyxin. The associations between FPW and clinico-histopathological data were further analyzed. A composite end-point was defined by all-cause death or end-stage renal disease to address the predictive value of FPW. Results: Sixty-three patients with renal biopsy-proven TMA were enrolled. The FPW of renal TMA patients was 1,090 ± 637 nm (range, 572–4,748 nm), which was significantly higher than the normal range in our center (p = 0.005). By immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence assays, we found decreased expressions of synaptopodin, podocalyxin, and WT-1 and continued stainings of WT-1 in some podocytes without detectable synaptopodin stainings in the areas of sclerotic tufts and cellular crescents. The FPW value was correlated with the serum albumin concentration (rs = −0.281, p = 0.026), proteinuria amount (rs = 0.255, p = 0.047), serum creatinine levels (rs = 0.339, p = 0.007), and eGFR (rs = −0.335, p = 0.007). According to ROC curve analysis, the optimal cutoff level of FPW for predicting the composite end-point was 869 nm. In patients with FPW ≥ 869 nm, FPW levels were further correlated with the severity of mesangiolysis (rs = 0.351, p = 0.033) and glomerulosclerosis (rs = 0.369, p = 0.025) in pathological evaluations. Patients without clinical remission also had higher FPW than those with remission (1,240 ± 793 vs. 925 ± 344 nm, p = 0.013). The multivariate Cox hazard model showed that FPW ≥ 869 nm was an independent risk factor for the composite end-point (hazard ratio: 3.64, 95% CI: 1.37–9.66, p = 0.009). Conclusion: The podocyte injury was prevalent and the FPW levels were closely associated with clinicopathological features, especially prognosis, in renal TMA patients.
Cálculo é fácil
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Velloso Junior Walter Ferreira
Published: August 2020

Esse livro resulta da longa experiência do autor na ministração de aulas de Matemática e Física na Universidade. Nesse tempo foi possível conhecer as dificuldades encontradas pelos estudantes quando ingressam nos cursos da área de exatas (Matemática, Física, Engenharias etc). Quase invariavelmente as disciplinas de Cálculo representam barreiras que grande parte dos estudantes têm muita dificuldade para ultrapassar. Daí a fama que surgiu já há muito tempo de que as disciplinas de Cálculo são difíceis. Este livro, porém, tem a meta ambiciosa, no bom sentido, de provar o contrário. Sem, obviamente, pretender substituir os livros de Cálculo tradicionais (existem centenas de autores que escreveram e ainda escrevem livros didáticos excelentes de Cálculo Diferencial), pois eles serão sempre necessários e úteis por toda vida acadêmica e profissional. O presente livro, porém, pretende melhorar a opinião que os estudantes têm sobre a Matemática de modo a fazê-los “perder o medo de Cálculo”. Vamos estudar juntos os conceitos básicos sobre números, funções, nomografia, álgebra elementar, limites, derivadas e integrais. O livro espera mostrar ao final que, na verdade, Cálculo é fácil.
Pre‐percutaneous Coronary Intervention Pericoronary Adipose Tissue Attenuation Evaluated by Computed Tomography Predicts Global Coronary Flow Reserve After Urgent Revascularization in Patients With Non–ST‐Segment–Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Kanaji Yoshihisa , Hirano Hidenori , Sugiyama Tomoyo , Hoshino Masahiro , Horie Tomoki , Misawa Toru , Nogami Kai , Ueno Hiroki , Hada Masahiro , Yamaguchi Masao , Sumino Yohei , Hamaya Rikuta , Usui Eisuke , Yonetsu Taishi , Sasano Tetsuo , Kakuta Tsunekazu
Published: August 2020

Background

Impaired global coronary flow reserve (g‐CFR) is related to worse outcomes. Inflammation has been postulated to play a role in atherosclerosis. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between pre‐procedural pericoronary adipose tissue inflammation and g‐CFR after the urgent percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with first non–ST‐segment–elevation acute coronary syndrome.

Methods and Results

Phase‐contrast cine‐magnetic resonance imaging was performed to obtain g‐CFR by quantifying coronary sinus flow at 1 month after percutaneous coronary intervention in a total of 116 first non–ST‐segment–elevation acute coronary syndrome patients who underwent pre‐percutaneous coronary intervention computed tomography angiography. On proximal 40‐mm segments of 3 major coronary vessels on computed tomography angiography, pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation was assessed by the crude analysis of mean computed tomography attenuation value. The patients were divided into 2 groups with and without impaired g‐CFR divided by the g‐CFR value of 1.8. There were significant differences in age, culprit lesion location, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) levels, mean pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation between patients with impaired g‐CFR and those without (g‐CFR, 1.47 [1.16, 1.68] versus 2.66 [2.22, 3.28];
P
<0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that age (odds ratio [OR], 1.060; 95% CI, 1.012–1.111,
P
=0.015) and mean pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation (OR, 1.108; 95% CI, 1.026–1.197,
P
=0.009) were independent predictors of impaired g‐CFR (g‐CFR <1.8).

Conclusions

Mean pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation, a marker of perivascular inflammation, obtained by computed tomography angiography performed before urgent percutaneous coronary intervention, but not hs‐CRP, a marker of systemic inflammation was significantly associated with g‐CFR at 1‐month after revascularization. Our results may suggest the pathophysiological mechanisms linking perivascular inflammation and g‐CFR in patients with non–ST‐segment–elevation acute coronary syndrome.
Two new species of Meriania (Melastomataceae) from eastern Ecuador

Authors: FERNÁNDEZ-FERNÁNDEZ DIANA M. , JOST LOU , DELLINGER AGNES S.
Published: August 2020

We describe two new species of Meriania (Melastomataceae), Meriania ardyae from Llanganates National Park and Meriania zunacensis from the Río Zuñac Reserve in Ecuador. Meriania ardyae is characterized by dark crimson petals, hypanthium and calyx with a dark purple coloration, young branches and internodes covered with a dense pubescence of violet-black hirsute trichomes and slightly dimorphic stamens. Meriania zunacensis is distinguished by conspicuous interpetiolar flaps, inflorescences with glomerulate flower clusters, large flowers with magenta petals, isomorphic stamens, and a fleshy, strongly curved style.
Friedrich Welwitsch and his overlooked contributions to the Flora of Tropical Africa, with a discussion of the names of Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae) that should be ascribed to Welwitsch alone

Authors: FIGUEIREDO ESTRELA , SMITH GIDEON F.
Published: August 2020

Although it is widely assumed that Friedrich Welwitsch, who collected about 10,000 specimens in Angola during a seven-year period in the mid-1800s, only proposed names that were validly published by other authors in the Flora of Tropical Africa (FTA), he also provided Latin descriptions that were attached to the specimens. These descriptions were translated into English and used in FTA. Welwitsch was therefore the only author of those names. As a case study, the nomenclature of new species published in the FTA in the genus Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae) is presented. When all the internal evidence in the relevant FTA volume is taken into account, the authorship of all the Kalanchoe species names, bar one, K. welwitschii, which was published by Britten exclusively, is Welwitsch only, and not “Welwitsch ex Britten” or “Welwitsch ex Oliver” as usually cited. Kalanchoe coccinea and K. brachyloba, whose distributions extend beyond Angola, have type localities in that country, and were also based on Welwitsch’s descriptions. An itinerary of Welwitsch’s Angolan expedition and maps showing the areas where he collected in the country are provided. Type localities from where Welwitsch collected the Kalanchoe species published in FTA are placed on the map. The typification of seven Kalanchoe names is clarified, some through correcting previous designations and, where required, second-step lectotypifications.
A new species of freshwater crab of the genus Badistemon Yeo & Ng, 2007 (Decapoda: Brachyura: Potamidae: Potamiscinae) from Manipur State, India, with the reassignment of Potamiscus pealianus (Wood-mason, 1871)
Authors: MITRA SANTANU , MONICA THINGBAIJIAM , WAIKHOM MEMA DEVI
Published: August 2020

A new species of potamid crab of the genus Badistemon Yeo & Ng, 2007, is described from Kamjong district of Manipur, India. Badistemon fulvum n. sp., can be distinguished from congeners by a distinct combination of carapace and gonopod characters: carapace subquadrate, convex, dorsal surface glabrous, cervical groove superficial, anterolateral margin longer than posterolateral margin; cornea relatively large; sixth male pleonal somite trapezoidal in shape, male telson broader than long; terminal segment of male first gonopod relatively long, outwardly bent, sub cylindrical with low and short dorsal flap, tip pointed, groove for male second gonopod terminal. Holotype and paratypes of Potamiscus pealianus (Wood-mason, 1871) are re-examined, and the species is here referred to Badistemon as carapace morphology and male gonopods characters are found congeneric with the genus. A key for all the three species of Badistemon are provided.
The cicadas (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) of Trinidad and Tobago including the description of three new species and seven new records, with new records for several additional Caribbean Islands
Authors: SANBORN ALLEN F.
Published: August 2020

The known cicada fauna of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is identified. Calyria hyperochelabrys n. sp., Carineta trinidadensis n. sp., and Herrera grammosticta n. sp. are described as new. The first records of Fidicinoides descampsi Boulard & Martinelli, 1996, Proarna hilaris (Germar, 1834), Guyalna bogotana (Distant, 1892a), Majeorona aper (Walker, 1850), Taphura boulardi Sanborn, 2011a, Carineta matura Distant, 1892b, and Herrera nigropercula Sanborn, 2020b are provided. The first reports for the genera Guyalna Boulard & Martinelli, 1996, Majeorona Distant, 1905d, Calyria Stål, 1862, Carineta Amyot & Audinet-Serville, 1843 and Herrera Distant, 1905c and the tribes Parnisini Distant, 1905e and Carinetini Distant, 1905c are represented by the records for the new species and new records. The first records of Proarna hilaris (Germar, 1830) for Anegada, Antigua, Grenada, Canoun Island, Mayreau Island and Union Island in the Grenadines, Little St. James, Little Thatch Island, Montserrat, Mosquito Island, and St. Kitts, Proarna palisoti (Metcalf, 1963a) for Navarro Island, Majeorona aper (Walker, 1850) for Grenada, and Ariasa albimaculosa Sanborn, 2016c for Bonaire are provided to increase the known distributions of these species and the Caribbean fauna. The currently known cicada fauna for Trinidad is increased here to 15 species representing ten genera, four tribes and two subfamilies. Only Quesada gigas (Olivier, 1790) is known currently from Tobago.
Financial Inclusion and Gender Inequality Reduction: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ohiomu Sylvester , Ogbeide-Osaretin Evelyn Nwamaka
Published: August 2020

Reduced inequality and gender equality are parts of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) towards global development, but the financial sector appears daunted in respect of financial inclusion for these noble goals. Concerns are more on gender inequality in the area of full utilisation of financial and human resources. Hence, this study investigated the impact of financial inclusion on gender inequality in sub-Saharan Africa. The study employed the generalised method of moments (GMM) estimation method on panel data on some countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The result of the study revealed that financial inclusion substantially reduced gender inequality. Financial inclusion access was found to drive down gender inequality more than usage. Female educational levels were found to have a substantial but negative impact on gender inequality. This study recommends that there is a need for an increase in commercial bank branches to increase accessibility to financial services. The government should increase its expenditure, and this should be channelled towards financial development and higher levels of education for females to improve financial literacy.
The impact of national context on future care planning for Korean parents in Korea and in New Zealand caring for their children living with disabilities: A cross-national study
Authors: Choi Clara , O’Brien Mike
Published: August 2020

An increasing concern of families caring for children living with disabilities is related to planning for their future care. This qualitative study explores how the country contexts shape the plans for future care provision of Korean parents in New Zealand and Korea. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with parents ( n = 18) and professionals ( n = 18). The study revealed that there are differences and similarities regarding the social reality of future care planning among Koreans in different national contexts. Recommendations are made In support of future care planning process taking its place as a conventional phase of care provision for people living with disabilities.
Reflections on Israeli hospital-based social work with COVID-19 patients and their families
Authors: Levin-Dagan Naama , Strenfeld-Hever Sivan
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic created an unfamiliar and dynamic reality which posed many challenges for hospital social workers. This article presents the experience of the social work service at Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center in Israel in answering the needs of COVID-19-hospitalized patients and their families.
Modeling the Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Insurance Coverage and Utilization
Authors: Choi S.E. , Simon L. , Riedy C.A. , Barrow J.R.
Published: August 2020

Unemployment rates in the United States are rapidly increasing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and attendant economic disruption. As employees lose their jobs, many will lose their employer-sponsored dental insurance (ESDI). Changes in insurance coverage are directly related to the oral health of the population, with many at risk of losing access to dental care. We assessed the impact of recent unemployment rates on insurance coverage and dental utilization. We estimated changes in dental insurance coverage at the state level, using previously applied econometric estimates. Expected changes in types of dental procedures performed at dental practices nationwide were assessed using a microsimulation model, using national practice survey data. Changes in emergency department (ED) visits for dental problems were estimated by fitting trendlines to ED visit patterns by payer type. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess how variations in unemployment rates and rates of ESDI in response to unemployment could alter the results. Since March 2020, the national unemployment rate has increased by 8.40 percentage points, an increase expected to result in more than 16 million individuals losing ESDI in the United States. Of these individuals, 45.0% are likely to enroll in their state’s Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program, and 47.0% are expected to become uninsured. With these expected changes in dental insurance coverage, the average dental practice would experience decreases in routine checkup visits but increases in tooth extraction, a procedure that is highly used by publicly insured or uninsured patients. In addition, dental-related ED visits would be expected to grow by 4.0%. Losses of employment caused by the COVID-19 in the United States can have countervailing effects on people’s health by impeding access to dental care. Lack of dental insurance is expected to be more pronounced in states that have not expanded Medicaid or do not provide Medicaid dental benefits for adults.
The Forensic Symptoms Inventory—Youth Version—Revised: Development and Age Invariance Testing of a Broad-Spectrum Questionnaire for Forensic Assessment
Authors: Boswinkel Niels , van Horn Joan E.
Published: August 2020

Covering both individual and neuropsychological factors, the Forensic Symptom Inventory—Youth Version—Revised (FSI-YV-R) is the first broad spectrum questionnaire for adolescents in forensic care, measuring several deficits, such as executive dysfunctions, anger, and inadequate coping to enhance treatment goals and evaluate interventions. In this study, both the factor structure and the measurement and structural invariance of the FSI-YV-R were investigated. The sample consisted of 159 forensic juvenile outpatients (79.9% males and 20.1% females) aged 12 to 19 with a mean age of 16.07 ( SD = 1.57). Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analyses identified a second-order model (measuring executive functioning) and proved measurement and structural invariant across age groups (younger adolescents, 12–15 years and older adolescents, 16–18 years). Contrary to the expectations none of the FSI-YV-R subscales differentiated between younger adolescents (N = 74) and older adolescents (N = 85). These results and implications for both theory and practice are discussed.
Translanguaging Theory and Practice: How Stakeholders Perceive Translanguaging as a Practical Theory of Language
Authors: Liu Yang , Fang Fan
Published: August 2020

This article explores the recent development of translanguaging from the perspective of multilingualism. This is in light of the multilingual turn in the field of foreign language teaching, particularly English language teaching (ELT), which challenges the fixed and traditional monolingual framework for foreign language education. In particular, this article reviews stakeholders’ attitudes towards the implementation of translanguaging in foreign language classroom settings. It is found that stakeholders generally hold positive attitudes towards translanguaging practices in various ELT contexts. This review highlights the importance of re-examining the significance of translanguaging in ELT practices, for example, by challenging the monolingual English-only language policy and recognizing students’ first language as a linguistic resource to facilitate language learning in both English language and content learning. The article concludes by offering some practical pedagogical implications for both policy makers and language practitioners.
Comparison between non-immigrant and 2nd generation immigrant youth: Self-Reported Health Status, BMI, and Internal and External Resources
Authors: Zlotnick Cheryl , Manor-Lavon Inbal , Srulovici Einav
Published: August 2020

Increasingly evidence suggests that the self-reported health status (SRH) of 2nd generation immigrant youth (native-born youth with at least one parent who was born abroad) may be lower than non-immigrant youth. This cross-sectional study compared the SRH of 2nd generation immigrant to non-immigrant youth ( n = 291), accounting for confounders including a clinical measure (i.e., body mass index), internal resources (i.e., diet, exercise, smoking), and external resources (i.e., socioeconomic status, family social support). Regressions showed SRH was associated with socioeconomic status ( p < .05), family social support ( p < .05) and exercise ( p < .05) but not immigrant status. Yet, bivariate analyses, showed that among youth, 2nd generation immigrants had poorer diets ( p < .01), were smokers ( p < .0001), had lower socioeconomic status ( p < .05) and less family social support (p < .05). Thus, although SRH did not differ by immigration status among youth, the differences in internal and external resources by immigrant status may lead to health differences in the future.
Towards a sustainable 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar: Evaluation of wind energy potential for three football stadiums
Authors: Méndez Carlos , Bicer Yusuf
Published: August 2020

This study analyzes the feasibility of satisfying the demand of three Football Stadiums for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, using the wind’s kinetic energy. For all three selected locations (Lusail, Al Rayyan, and Al Wakrah), the wind potentiality is calculated through an environmental parameters study, from which the wind power density is obtained. Furthermore, a commercial wind turbine with proper characteristics is selected, and the same case study for each location is presented, to quantify the capacity that wind energy offers for satisfying the maximum energy demand of each associated stadium. In addition, the environmental benefits and the time required by each wind farm to satisfy the energy demand are computed. The results reveal that the conditions enable the use of wind energy for this purpose, based on a 5.06 m/s, 4.63 m/s, and 5.18 m/s velocity mean for Lusail, Al Rayyan, and Al Wakrah, respectively; from which values of 187.49 W/m2, 150.96 W/m2, and 187.29 W/m2 of wind power density are obtained. Also, the proposed wind farms could produce 69,952.56 MWh/year, 59,550.19 MWh/year, and 75,333.70 MWh/year, respectively. Moreover, the wind farms should produce energy for a period of 5.64 h, 4.41 h, and 5.23 h, to satisfy the maximum demand by a football match in its associated location. Additionally, to avoid the implementation of a storage system, the electricity obtained from the wind is connected to the power grid, decreasing the quota of fossil fuel power plants. In consequence, Qatar will eliminate the emissions of approximately 23.376 tons of CO2 in total per trio of matches held in these stadiums. Finally, a post 2022 FIFA World Cup scenario is analyzed, obtaining a positive outcome from both environmental and economic perspectives, in which an average of 14,675 tons of CO2 and 6.03 Million US$ can be saved annually.
Social Capital, Social Cost, and Relational Culture in Three Societies
Authors: Song Lijun
Published: August 2020

Does who you know in the status hierarchy satisfy or dissatisfy your life? Does that effect vary by culture and society? To addresses these two questions, this study applies four theories and analyzes the association between accessed status (network members’ status) and life satisfaction using nationally representative retrospective data from three societies (the United States, urban China, and Taiwan). Social capital theory expects absolute and relative higher accessed status (network members’ higher status relative to individuals’) to improve life satisfaction and relative lower accessed status to diminish life satisfaction. Social cost theory asserts the opposite. The collectivistic advantage explanation anticipates social capital theory to apply more to urban China and Taiwan than social cost theory and social cost theory to apply more to the United States than social capital theory. The collectivistic disadvantage explanation predicts the opposite. This study measures nine indicators of absolute and relative accessed status on the occupational dimension and six domain-specific satisfactions. Results support both social capital theory and social cost theory in all three societies. There is tentative evidence for the collectivistic disadvantage explanation across the three societies. Theoretical and methodological implications are discussed.
The effects of roflumilast, a phosphodiesterase type-4 inhibitor, on EEG biomarkers in schizophrenia: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Gilleen James , Nottage Judith , Yakub Farah , Kerins Sarah , Valdearenas Lorena , Uz Tolga , Lahu Gez , Tsai Max , Ogrinc Frank , Williams Steve C , Ffytche Dominic , Mehta Mitul A , Shergill Sukhi S
Published: August 2020

Background:

Patients with schizophrenia have significant cognitive deficits, which may profoundly impair quality of life. These deficits are also evident at the neurophysiological level with patients demonstrating altered event-related potential in several stages of cognitive processing compared to healthy controls; within the auditory domain, for example, there are replicated alterations in Mismatch Negativity, P300 and Auditory Steady State Response. However, there are no approved pharmacological treatments for cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.

Aims:

Here we examine whether the phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, roflumilast, can improve neurophysiological deficits in schizophrenia.

Methods:

Using a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design study in 18 patients with schizophrenia, the effect of the phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, roflumilast (100 µg and 250 µg) on auditory steady state response (early stage), mismatch negativity and theta (intermediate stage) and P300 (late stage) was examined using electroencephalogram. A total of 18 subjects were randomised and included in the analysis.

Results:

Roflumilast 250 µg significantly enhanced the amplitude of both the mismatch negativity ( p=0.04) and working memory-related theta oscillations ( p=0.02) compared to placebo but not in the other (early- or late-stage) cognitive markers.

Conclusions:

The results suggest that phosphodiesterase-4 inhibition, with roflumilast, can improve electroencephalogram cognitive markers, which are impaired in schizophrenia, and that phosphodiesterase-4 inhibition acts at an intermediate rather than early or late cognitive processing stage. This study also underlines the use of neurophysiological measures as cognitive biomarkers in experimental medicine.
Determination of optimum pixel size and slice thickness for tractography and ulnar nerve diffusion tensor imaging at the cubital tunnel using 3T MRI
Authors: Park Sun-Young , Koh Sung Hye , Lee In Jae , Lee Kwanseop , Lee Yul
Published: August 2020

Background

Small peripheral nerve tractography is challenging because of the trade-off among resolution, image acquisition time, and signal-to-noise ratio.

Purpose

To optimize pixel size and slice thickness parameters for fiber tractography and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of the ulnar nerve at the cubital tunnel using 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Material and Methods

Fifteen healthy volunteers (mean age 30 ± 6.8 years) were recruited prospectively. Axial T2-weighted and DTI scans were acquired, covering the cubital tunnel, using different pixel sizes and slice thicknesses. Three-dimensional (3D) nerve tractography was evaluated for the median number and length of the reconstructed fiber tracts and visual score from 0 to 5. Two-dimensional (2D) cross-sectional DTI was evaluated for fractional anisotropy (FA) values throughout the length of the ulnar nerve.

Results

A pixel size of 1.3 mm2 revealed the highest number of reconstructed nerve fibers compared to that of 1.1 mm2 ( P = 0.048), with a good visual score. A slice thickness of 4 mm had the highest number of reconstructed nerve fibers and visual score compared with other thicknesses (all P < 0.05). In 2D cross-sectional images, the median FA values were in the range of 0.40–0.63 at the proximal, central, and distal portions of the cubital tunnel. Inter-observer agreement for all parameters was good to excellent.

Conclusion

For fiber tractography and DTI of the ulnar nerve at the cubital tunnel, optimal image quality was obtained using a 1.3-mm2 pixel size and 4-mm slice thickness under MR parameters of this study at 3T.
The clinical and imaging features of infratentorial germinomas compared with supratentorial ectopic germinomas
Authors: Li Wei , Ran Chao , Ma Jun
Published: August 2020

Background

Intracranial germinoma is very sensitive to chemoradiotherapy, while the risk of infratentorial operation is high. The accurate diagnosis can provide the more reasonable treatment, avoiding the unnecessary therapeutic risks.

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical and imaging features of infratentorial germinomas.

Material and Methods

The clinical and imaging data of 13 infratentorial germinomas were collected and compared with 17 supratentorial germinomas in the same period. The clinical and imaging findings were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Infratentorial germinomas were more common in female patients than supratentorial ones (53.85% vs. 11.76%, P = 0.020). The mean age of the infratentorial group (23.0 ± 10.2 years) was significantly older than that of supratentorial group (12.4 ± 3.3 years, P = 0.003). Most infratentorial germinomas (12/13, 92.31%) underwent surgical resection, while stereotactic biopsy was more common in the supratentorial group (11/17, 64.71%, P = 0.002). Infratentorial germinomas were significantly smaller than supratentorial ones (25.85 ± 8.13 mm vs. 37.18 ± 18.11 mm, P = 0.031). Cystic lesions were more common in supratentorial germinomas (12/17, 70.59%), while most infratentorial germinomas were solid lesions (10/13, 76.92%, P = 0.025). On post-contrast T1-weighted imaging, obvious enhancement was more common in infratentorial germinomas than in supratentorial ones (100% vs. 64.71%, P = 0.024).

Conclusion

In addition to the common findings with supratentorial germinomas, infratentorial lesions have some specific clinical and imaging features.
Global capitalism post-pandemic
Authors: Robinson William I.
Published: August 2020

Global capitalism is at the brink of another round of restructuring and transformation based on a much more advanced digitalisation of the entire global economy and society, and the application of fourth industrial revolution technologies. The changing social and economic conditions brought about by the coronavirus pandemic are accelerating the process, helping a new bloc of transnational capital, led by the giant tech companies along with finance and the military-industrial complex, to amass ever-greater power during the pandemic and to consolidate its control over the commanding heights of the global economy. As restructuring proceeds, it will heighten the concentration of capital worldwide, worsen social inequality and aggravate international tensions. Enabled by digital applications, the ruling groups, unless they are pushed to change course by mass pressure from below, will turn to ratcheting up the global police state to contain social upheavals.
The Precarious Concept of Precarity
Authors: Choonara Joseph
Published: August 2020

This paper traces the roots of precarity as a concept emerging from French sociological discourse, then permeating through networks informed by Italian autonomism, before re-emerging in the writings of figures such as Guy Standing and Arne Kalleberg. It is shown that, despite the claims of the literature, precarity in employment is not typical in the United Kingdom. Here, temporary employment remains the exception and employment tenure remains stable. This can best be explained by radical political economy. Capital is not interested simply in engendering precarity; it is also concerned with the retention and reproduction of labor power, leading to contradictory imperatives. The resonance of the narrative of precarity, in spite of this, reflects a long retreat from class within radical theory and the insecurities present in working life.