bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Beekeeping Situation, the Level of Beekeepers Knowledge Concerning Local Honeybee Subspecies, Their Productive Characteristics, and Behavior in Eastern Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Aynalem Abejew Tessema , Mekuriaw Zeleke Zeleke
Published: March 2017

The study was undertaken in Amhara National Regional State, northeastern zones of Ethiopia in 2013/2014. The objectives of the study were to identify the existing local honeybees and their productive characteristics and behavior and generate baseline information for further research and development. Out of two zones, three potential districts have been purposively selected based on their potential. A total of 260 beekeepers personal interviewees were administered using structured and semi-structured questionnaires. The study was designed to address behavioral characteristics and productivities of different local honeybees. About 98.8% of interviewees were male and about 73.9% were at stages of literacy ranging from read and write to diploma level. Nearly 73.4% of beekeepers have more than 5 years of beekeeping experience. The average honeybee colony holding was 4.6 in highlands, 2.8 in mid altitude, and 2.7 in lowlands. About 34% of respondents harvest honey more than two times a year. Based on the honeybees individual color appearance, aggressiveness, and honey productivity, about 36.7% of the respondents have identified three local honeybee types, namely, brown red, black, and mixed. Brown red colored honeybee ecotype has been selected as best due to their better honey production, low aggressiveness, and relatively high reproductive swarming tendency.
A Rabbit Model Study to Determine the Efficacy of a Prototype Corneal Endothelium Protector during Cataract Surgery
Authors: Chew Annabel C. Y. , Chan Anita , Nongpiur Monisha E. , Peh Gary , Barathi Veluchamy A. , Lwin Nyein C. , Ong Charles , Perera Shamira
Published: March 2017

Purpose. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of a mechanical device, the P-chute, in corneal endothelium preservation during phacoemulsification in a rabbit model. Methods. Twenty-four rabbits were randomly assigned into 2 groups. One eye of each rabbit underwent phacoemulsification that simulated the removal of a dense nucleus, with or without the P-chute. Serial slit-lamp examinations, anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT) scans, and specular microscopy were performed. Three rabbits from each group were sacrificed on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 5, 7, and 14. Histological analysis of the corneas was performed. Results. There was a trend towards lesser endothelial cell loss for the P-chute group at POD1 (4.9% versus 12.5%, p=0.53), POD5 (10.4% versus 12.2%, p=0.77), and POD7 (10.5% versus 17.2%, p=0.52). There was no significant difference in the corneal thickness (p=>0.05) between the 2 groups. The insertion of the device was challenging. The use of the P-chute only added an extra 15% to the surgical time. Conclusions. There was a trend towards better endothelium preservation with the P-chute even though the results were not statistically significant. We believe that the device could be useful in certain surgical situations. Further work is needed to improve the device insertion.
The Effect of Body Mass on the Shoe-Athlete Interaction
Authors: Tsouknidas A. , Pantazopoulos M. , Sagris D. , Fasnakis D. , Maropoulos S. , Arabatzi F. , Michailidis N.
Published: March 2017

Long-distance running is known to induce joint overloading and elevate cytokine levels, which are the hallmarks for a variety of running-related injuries. To address this, footwear systems incorporate cushioning midsoles to mitigate injurious mechanical loading. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of athlete body mass on the cushioning capacity of technical footwear. An artificial heel was prototyped to fit the impact pattern of a heel-strike runner and used to measure shock attenuation by an automated drop test. Impact mass and velocity were modulated to simulate runners of various body mass and speeds. The investigation provided refined insight on running-induced impact transmission to the human body. The examined midsole system was optimized around anthropometric data corresponding to an average (normal) body mass. The results suggest that although modern footwear is capable of attenuating the shock waves occurring during foot strike, improper shoe selection could expose an athlete to high levels of peak stress that could provoke an abnormal cartilage response. The selection of a weight-specific cushioning system could provide optimum protection and could thus prolong the duration of physical exercise beneficial to maintaining a simulated immune system.
rs5911 and rs3842788 Genetic Polymorphism, Blood Stasis Syndrome, and Plasma TXB2 and hs‐CRP Levels Are Associated with Aspirin Resistance in Chinese Chronic Stable Angina Patients
Authors: Xue Mei , Yang Xuesong , Yang Lin , Kou Na , Miao Yu , Wang Mingming , Ren Junhua , Zhao Quanli
Published: March 2017

The identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to aspirin resistance (AR) is of great significance for the explanation why some individuals demonstrate an incomplete response to aspirin and for optimizing the antiplatelet therapy strategy. The study was designed to investigate the possible associated genetic markers and clinical factors of AR for Chinese patients with chronic stable angina after PCI and to analyze the association between TXA2, PGI2, hs‐CRP level, AR, and gene polymorphisms. Totally 207 chronic stable angina patients who received 100 mg maintenance dose daily of aspirin for more than 7 days were enrolled. The inhibition of platelets was assessed using light transmittance aggregometry. TXB2, 6‐keto‐PGF1α, and hs‐CRP were measured by radioimmunoassay. Genotyping was performed using Taqman probe technique (rs5787 and rs5911) and gene sequencing technology (rs3842788). By using binary logistic regression analysis, the impact of clinical and genetic determinants on AR was evaluated. The prevalence of AR and aspirin semiresistance (ASR) was 3.86% and 20.76%, respectively, in Chinese chronic stable angina patients. rs5911 A/C and C/C versus A/A genotype (OR = 5.546, 95% CI = 1.812–11.404), rs3842788 A/G versus G/G genotype (OR = 8.358, 95% CI = 2.470–28.286), and blood stasis syndrome (BSS, OR = 10.220, 95% CI = 4.242–24.621) were associated with AR, but rs5787 variants were all homozygous of G/G genotype. Plasma TXB2 and hs‐CRP increased significantly in AR and ASR group, while 6‐keto‐PGF1α showed no difference, and TXB2 level was significantly higher in carriers of the rs3842788 A/G genotype. According to our results, rs5911 and rs3842788 are proved to be specific genetic markers of AR in Chinese chronic stable angina patients for the first time, and BSS was also proved to be a remarkable determinant for AR. The AR and ASR patients were with increased plasma TXB2 and hs‐CRP levels, and the TXB2 level was influenced by the variation of rs3842788 genotype.
Genetic Heterogeneity in Therapy-Naïve Synchronous Primary Breast Cancers and Their Metastases
Authors: Ng Charlotte K.Y. , Bidard Francois-Clement , Piscuoglio Salvatore , Geyer Felipe C. , Lim Raymond S. , de Bruijn Ino , Shen Ronglai , Pareja Fresia , Berman Samuel H. , Wang Lu , Pierga Jean-Yves , Vincent-Salomon Anne , Viale Agnes , Norton Larry , Sigal Brigitte , Weigelt Britta , Cottu Paul , Reis-Filho Jorge S.
Published: March 2017

Purpose: Paired primary breast cancers and metachronous metastases after adjuvant treatment are reported to differ in their clonal composition and genetic alterations, but it is unclear whether these differences stem from the selective pressures of the metastatic process, the systemic therapies, or both. We sought to define the repertoire of genetic alterations in breast cancer patients with de novo metastatic disease who had not received local or systemic therapy.

Experimental Design: Up to two anatomically distinct core biopsies of primary breast cancers and synchronous distant metastases from nine patients who presented with metastatic disease were subjected to high-depth whole-exome sequencing. Mutations, copy number alterations and their cancer cell fractions, and mutation signatures were defined using state-of-the-art bioinformatics methods. All mutations identified were validated with orthogonal methods.

Results: Genomic differences were observed between primary and metastatic deposits, with a median of 60% (range 6%–95%) of shared somatic mutations. Although mutations in known driver genes including TP53, PIK3CA, and GATA3 were preferentially clonal in both sites, primary breast cancers and their synchronous metastases displayed spatial intratumor heterogeneity. Likely pathogenic mutations affecting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition–related genes, including SMAD4, TCF7L2, and TCF4 (ITF2), were found to be restricted to or enriched in the metastatic lesions. Mutational signatures of trunk mutations differed from those of mutations enriched in the primary tumor or the metastasis in six cases.

Conclusions: Synchronous primary breast cancers and metastases differ in their repertoire of somatic genetic alterations even in the absence of systemic therapy. Mutational signature shifts might contribute to spatial intratumor genetic heterogeneity. Clin Cancer Res; 23(15); 4402–15. ©2017 AACR.
Quality Indicators in Pancreatic Surgery: Lessons Learned from the German DGAV StuDoQ|Pancreas Registry
Authors: Wellner Ulrich F. , Keck Tobias
Published: March 2017

Background: Political and public interest in quality management in surgery is increasing. The German Society for General and Visceral Surgery (DGAV) established the DGAV StuDoQ, a nationwide registry for quality assessment in visceral surgery, with the organ-specific module DGAV StuDoQ|Pancreas. The first prerequisite for the measurement of quality is the definition of quality indicators. These can be related to risk factors which are also documented in the registry. Methods: Quality indicators for pancreatic surgery were developed by review of the current literature and expert consensus. After ranking the potential quality indicators, three essential indicators for outcome quality were selected for further review of the literature. Current figures were extracted from the DGAV StuDoQ|Pancreas registry and the correlation with selected risk factors was tested. Results: Three essential outcome quality indicators were selected: in-hospital mortality, TV30, and severe complications according to the Clavien-Dindo Classification. Preliminary data confirms the validity of risk factors included in the DGAV StuDoQ|Pancreas registry. Conclusion: Essential quality indicators were defined for pancreatic surgery. The DGAV StuDoQ|Pancreas constitutes a valid platform for risk-adjusted quality assessment in Germany.
RRx-001 Priming of PD-1 Inhibition in the Treatment of Small Cell Carcinoma of the Vagina: A Rare Gynecological Tumor
Authors: Brzezniak Christina , Oronsky Bryan , Trepel Jane , Summers Jr. Thomas A. , Cabrales Pedro , Lee Min-Jung , Day Regina , Jha Saheli , Caroen Scott , Zeman Karen , Ferry Lindsey , Harmer Cindy , Oronsky Neil , Lybeck Michelle , Lybeck Harry E. , Brown James F. , Reid Tony R. , Carter Corey A.
Published: March 2017

Small cell carcinoma of the vagina is rare, so rare in fact that the total number reported in English-language journals is less than 30. Due to this extremely low incidence, no specific treatment guidelines have been established, and most of what is clinically known is derived from a handful of single case reports. However, as befitting its highly aggressive histologic features, which are reminiscent of small cell lung cancer (SCLC), first-line treatment is modeled after SCLC. Herein is reported the case of a 51-year-old African-American patient with metastatic biopsy-proven small cell carcinoma of the vagina that progressed through multiple therapies: first-line cisplatin and etoposide (making it platinum-resistant) and radiotherapy, followed by the tumor macrophage-stimulating agent RRx-001 in a clinical trial called QUADRUPLE THREAT, which per protocol preceded a mandated rechallenge with cisplatin and etoposide. RECIST v.1.1 tumor progression on both RRx-001 and cisplatin/etoposide was accompanied by central necrosis in several of the enlarged lymph nodes and hepatic metastases, which may have been evidence of pseudoprogression, accounting for her ongoing longer-than-expected survival, since the necrotic tissue may have primed the activity of the PD-1 inhibitor. The lack of response to RRx-001 is hypothesized to have correlated with sparse tumor macrophage infiltration, seen on pre- and post-treatment biopsies, since the mechanism of action of RRx-001 relates to stimulation of tumor-associated macrophages.
Endobronchial Valve Used as Salvage Therapy in a Mechanically Ventilated Patient with Intractable Life-Threatening Haemoptysis
Authors: Lalla Usha , Allwood Brian W. , Sinha Roy Soumitra , Irusen Elvis M. , Koegelenberg Coenraad F.N.
Published: March 2017

Treatment options for intractable life-threatening haemoptysis in mechanically ventilated patients with structural lung disease who do not respond to bronchial artery embolisation (BAE) and who are deemed unfit for surgery are limited. A 26-year-old HIV-positive male with a poorly preserved CD4 count and active pulmonary tuberculosis was intubated and mechanically ventilated for persistent life-threatening haemoptysis. Two attempts at BAE failed, and life-threatening haemoptysis recurred daily for 14 days despite antituberculous therapy. He was deemed unfit for surgery during that period. We proceeded to identify the source of bleeding endoscopically and implanted an endobronchial valve in the left upper lobe bronchus. Following the collapse of the affected lobe, haemoptysis ceased and the patient was promptly liberated from mechanical ventilation. He remained haemoptysis free for the duration of his hospitalisation. Endobronchial valves, therefore, may be a viable option in patients mechanically ventilated with persistent life-threatening haemoptysis in whom all other conventional measures fail and who are considered unfit for surgery.
Urinary Infections in Patients with Catheters in the Upper Urinary Tract: Microbiological Study
Authors: Lara-Isla Alba , Medina-Polo José , Alonso-Isa Manuel , Benítez-Sala Raúl , Sopeña-Sutil Raquel , Justo-Quintas Juan , Gil-Moradillo Javier , González-Padilla Daniel A. , García-Rojo Esther , Passas-Martínez Juan Bautista , Tejido-Sánchez Ángel
Published: March 2017

Background: Infections related to catheters in the upper urinary tract (CUUT) are associated with specific characteristics. Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out from 2012 to 2015 to evaluate infections in patients with CUUT. Results: A total of 209 infections were included (99 with double-J, 81 with nephrostomy, and 29 with internal/external nephroureteral stents). Among nephrostomy tube carriers, the most frequently isolated microorganisms were Pseudomonas and Enterococcus. In those with an internal/external nephroureteral stent, Klebsiella was the most common, and 57.1% were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella. In double-J carriers, Escherichia coli and Enterococcus were the most common microorganisms. Multiple-drug resistance (MDR) microorganisms were isolated in 28.6, 47.1, and 58.3% of patients with double-J, nephrostomy, and internal-external nephroureteral stents. A percutaneous CUUT (p = 0.005) and immunosuppression (p = 0.034) were risk factors for MDR microorganisms. Conclusions: Non-E. coli bacteria are commonly isolated in patients with CUUT. MDR microorganisms are frequent, mainly in percutaneous approach or immunosuppression.
Cutoff Pepsinogen Level for Predicting Unintendedly Eradicated Cases of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Subjects with Seemingly Normal Pepsinogen Levels
Authors: Kishikawa Hiroshi , Kimura Kayoko , Ito Asako , Arahata Kyoko , Takarabe Sakiko , Kaida Shogo , Miyauchi Jun , Miura Soichiro , Kanai Takanori , Nishida Jiro
Published: March 2017

Backgrounds/Aims: In the ABC method, which is a method for risk stratification of gastric cancer using serum anti-Helicobacter pylori antibody and pepsinogen (PG) test, subjects with normal PG and seronegative for H. pylori are named as “Group A” and are regarded as having a low risk of gastric cancer. These “Group A” subjects include unintentionally eradicated cases at relatively high risk, and this study aimed to identify these subjects. Methods: Of the 109 subjects, 76 were classified as uninfected Group A subjects with negative histologic H. pylori infection and no histologic and endoscopic atrophy, and 33 subjects were classified serologically as Group A after successful eradication, which are serologically equal to the unintendedly eradicated cases in Group A. The usefulness of measuring PG levels to detect post-eradication cases was validated by using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The area under the ROC curve for PGI level was 0.736 ± 0.06 (p < 0.01; cutoff value, 37.0 ng/mL; sensitivity, 77.6%; specificity, 72.7%), and that for the PGI/II ratio was 0.660 ± 0.06 (p < 0.01; cutoff value, 5.1; sensitivity, 84.2%; specificity, 43.4%). Conclusion: PGI levels of ≤37 ng/mL and PGI/II ratios of ≤5.1 effectively identified unintendedly eradicated cases in Group A.
ENETS Consensus Guidelines for the Standards of Care in Neuroendocrine Tumors: Radiological, Nuclear Medicine and Hybrid Imaging
Authors: Sundin Anders , Arnold Rudolf , Baudin Eric , Cwikla Jaroslaw B. , Eriksson Barbro , Fanti Stefano , Fazio Nicola , Giammarile Francesco , Hicks Rodney J. , Kjaer Andreas , Krenning Eric , Kwekkeboom Dik , Lombard-Bohas Catherine , O'Connor Juan M. , O'Toole Dermot , Rockall Andrea , Wiedenmann Bertram , Valle Juan W. , Vullierme Marie-Pierre ,   all other Antibes Consensus Conference participants
Published: March 2017

Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the neck-thorax-abdomen and pelvis, including 3-phase examination of the liver, constitutes the basic imaging for primary neuroendocrine tumor (NET) diagnosis, staging, surveillance, and therapy monitoring. CT characterization of lymph nodes is difficult because of inadequate size criteria (short axis diameter), and bone metastases are often missed. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) including diffusion-weighted imaging is preferred for the examination of the liver, pancreas, brain and bone. MRI may miss small lung metastases. MRI is less well suited than CT for the examination of extended body areas because of the longer examination procedure. Ultrasonography (US) frequently provides the initial diagnosis of liver metastases and contrast-enhanced US is excellent to characterize liver lesions that remain equivocal on CT/MRI. US is the method of choice to guide the biopsy needle for the histopathological NET diagnosis. US cannot visualize thoracic NET lesions for which CT-guided biopsy therefore is used. Endocopic US is the most sensitive method to diagnose pancreatic NETs, and additionally allows for biopsy. Intraoperative US facilitates lesion detection in the pancreas and liver. Somatostatin receptor imaging should be a part of the tumor staging, preoperative imaging and restaging, for which 68Ga-DOTA-somatostatin analog PET/CT is recommended, which is vastly superior to somatostatin receptor scintigraphy, and facilitates the diagnosis of most types of NET lesions, for example lymph node metastases, bone metastases, liver metastases, peritoneal lesions, and primary small intestinal NETs. 18FDG-PET/CT is better suited for G3 and high G2 NETs, which generally have higher glucose metabolism and less somatostatin receptor expression than low-grade NETs, and additionally provides prognostic information.
Better than (when) a Magistrate? Caesar’s Suspension from Magisterial Functions in 62 bc
Authors: Frolov Roman M.
Published: March 2017

According to Suetonius, in 62bcthe praetor Caesar was ‘banished from the administration of the state’ and left the forum. A spontaneous gathering (coetus) offered him help in recovering his position. Unexpectedly he restrained the crowd, and the grateful senate itself restored him to his rank. Even though only Suetonius explicitly mentions Caesar’s suspension, in fact, all our sources allow this. I will argue that Caesar did not lose his magistracy, just like the plebeian tribune Metellus Nepos affected by the same measures. Nor did the suspension include the restriction of any magisterial prerogatives. Instead, it meant the loss of political initiative. However, Caesar was still able to respond to the initiative of others. Suetonius’ account raises a number of questions about the political role of those who found themselves at the moment of transition from a position of amagistratusto that of aprivatus, and vice versa.
Ecological role of benthic crustaceans in Chilean north Patagonian lakes and rivers (Araucania region, 39°S)
Authors: Encina Francisco , Vega Rolando , Lara Gladys , De Los Ríos-Escalante Patricio
Published: March 2017

The Chilean north Patagonian inland waters are characterized by their low mineral concentrations. In their original status, many of these ecosystems have native vegetation in their surrounding drainage basins, but in the last decades the native vegetation was replaced by agricultural, urban, and industrial zones, with as a result of these human alterations that those aquatic communities changed. The aim of the present study was to make a literature review about the ecological role of crustaceans in Chilean north Patagonian lakes and rivers. The literature mentioned the presence of amphipods (Hyalella), crayfishes (Samastacus spinifrons), and freshwater crabs (genus Aegla), and many of these species hold a conservation risk due to the consequences of habitat damage and/or their high endemism. These crustaceans are important for the degradation of particulate organic matter originating from the surrounding vegetation, and are prey for native and introduced salmonid fishes. Similar patterns had already been observed for Argentinean Patagonian rivers.
Anchialocarididae, a new family of anchialine decapods and a new species of the genus Agostocaris from Cozumel Island, Mexico
Authors: Mejía-ortíz Luis M. , Yañez Germán , López-Mejía Marilú
Published: March 2017

Two new species of anchialine cave shrimp from Cozumel Island are described. A new species from the family Agostocarididae, Agostocaris zabaletai n. sp., occurs in three cenotes on the island (Chempita, Chankanaab System and Tres Potrillos). This new species is closely related to Agostocaris bozanici that is known from one isolated cenote in another zone of the island. Agostocaris zabaletai n. sp. is similar to A. bozanici because it lacks a rostrum with teeth, and the palp of the first maxilliped is not segmented. In addition A. zabaletai also differs from A. bozanici by bearing four pairs of spines on the telson and only one spine on the outer ramus of the uropods. Both Agostocaris williamsi and Agostocaris acklinsensis differ from A. zabaletai because both species have occasionally a serrate rostrum, and these species are reported exclusively from the Bahamas. A new family, Anchialocarididae, new genus and species Anchialocaris paulini n. sp. are described. This new species is known exclusively from the cenote Chempita located in the central area of the island. The new family Anchialocarididae is closely related to the families Agostocarididae and Atyidae because they have a similar branchial formulae. The main difference is that the new family has a simple articulation between carpus and palm of the first pereiopod, and this appendage is more slender than the second. Although the new family has several setae on the rudimentary propodus on the second pereiopod it lacks the abundance of setae found in other members of the Atyidae family genus Typhlatya. The relationship between this new family and the Agostocarididae is discussed.
The ovarian development pattern of pond-reared Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis H. Milne-Edwards, 1853
Authors: Wu Xugan , Liu Meimei , Pan Jie , Chen Hao , Zeng Chaoshu , Cheng Yongxu
Published: March 2017

Although pond culture is the major culture method for Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) in China, the pattern of ovarian development in pond-reared E. sinensis remains unclear. This study investigated the changes in ovarian morphology and histology, gonadosomatic index (GSI), hepatosomatic index (HSI), and monthly variation of the ovarian development pattern during the ovarian maturation of pond-reared female E. sinensis. Based on the pubertal moult, and ovarian morphology and histology, the ovarian development cycle of E. sinensis could be divided into five stages, i.e., Stage I: the ovary appears thin ribbon-like and translucent, dominated by oogonia (OG) and previtellogenic oocytes (PRO); Stage II: the ovary appears milk white or buff, dominated by endogenous vitellogenic oocytes (EN); Stage III: the ovary appears orange or light brown, dominated by exogenous vitellogenic oocytes (EX); Stage IV: the ovary appears crimson red or brown and ovarian lobes occupy most available body cavities. The major oocytes were nearly mature oocytes (NO); Stage V: the ovary appears deep purple and is filled with mature oocytes (MO). During ovarian maturation, the GSI increased significantly and a significant, positive correlation was found between the GSI and the mean long diameter of the oocyte from stage III to stage V. However, a significantly negative correlation was found between GSI and HSI. The ovarian development of pond-reared female E. sinensis was not synchronous, most of the pubertal moults were found until mid-late August. At the end of August, the percentages of females that reached ovarian stages II and III were 55 and 24%, respectively. After that, the ovarian development of pond-reared female E. sinensis became fast, and females with stage III or more advanced ovaries were found to be in excess of 80% by the end of September and onward. From the end of November to late December, the GSI of female E. sinensis did not increase significantly, which indicated pond-reared females had reached mature or nearly-mature ovaries by the end of November.
Cluster analyses of Ostracoda based on dimensions of body structures: implications for taxonomic classification
Authors: Zhai Dayou , Smith Robin J. , Peng Ping , Yu Na , Ma Shunxin , Li Xiangzhong
Published: March 2017

We measured selected podomeres, setae and claws in different ostracods and calculated the between-specimen morphological difference, which is expressed as a Canberra dissimilarity index. Our data indicate that morphological differences between ostracods increase with their taxonomic distance. Cluster analyses of ostracod specimens based on Canberra dissimilarity are able to discriminate different species and concur with existing classifications. We suggest that the dimensions of body structures are taxonomically valuable, and that ostracod species identification can be assisted based on the dimensional data of body structures. Species discrimination with such a method does not rely on explicit morphological hiatuses, such as the presence/absence of particular setae, but instead utilizes measurable morphological differences. Our numerical methods also show good potential for studying phenotypic diversity. Analyses on ostracod populations from isolated temporary pools and those from permanent but geographically distant habitats indicate that dispersal improbability is responsible for the observed morphological differentiation.
Obsessive-Compulsive Ir/rationality in Watt
Authors: Chester Emily
Published: March 2017

This article argues that the novel Watt (1953) enacts a veritable thought experiment, which posits endless obsessions and compulsions as an inevitable component of rigorous adherence to the Cartesian Method. This has ironic implications as Watt depicts how adherence to the supposedly rational principles of the Method necessitates the presence of obsessions and compulsions, which, from a contemporary biomedical perspective, point towards an irrational disorder of the self: obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Subsequently, Beckett challenges our ability to neatly define ‘rational’ philosophical methodology when it is so closely aligned with the components of ‘irrational’ disorder.
Scenes of Writing
Authors: Sheehan Paul
Published: March 2017

Writing as a form of information technology has historically inspired suspicion, mistrust and downright hostility. This essay considers the recent (re)conception of writing as a cognitive artefact, assisting in the mind’s extension into the world. The discussion focuses on two of Beckett’s ‘writing-oriented’ novels, Malone Dies and How It Is, and applies the Extended Mind (EM) thesis to the most revealing and forcible episodes of inscription in each work. Although Beckett abjures the benefits that cognitive extension can bring, reading these two novels in this light can elucidate both the potential applications and the pressure-points of the EM thesis.
The Dialectic of Panic and Anxiety in Beckett’s “First Love”
Authors: Gourley James
Published: March 2017

This article examines Beckett’s representation of anxiety and panic in “First Love” (1946). It considers Beckett’s own experience of panic attacks and identifies these symptoms as informing the representation of panic in the text. It reads “First Love” via Beckett’s psychotherapy (and the study he undertook in conjunction with it) and presents the text’s allusion to Otto Rank’s The Trauma of Birth as Beckett’s attempt to understand his panic. It then addresses the anxiety of the text, and argues for this anxiety as an objective element, separate from Beckett’s own psychological phenomena. Employing H. Porter Abbott’s conception of the ‘autographical’ nature of Beckett’s post-World War Two work, it reads “First Love” as focused on the anxiety generated by the perception of nothingness, and identifies the story’s theory of anxiety.
Linkages of Subtropical Stratospheric Intraseasonal Intrusions with Indian Summer Monsoon Deficit Rainfall
Authors: Fadnavis Suvarna , Chattopadhyay Rajib
Published: March 2017

The authors investigate the life cycle of a strong subtropical stratospheric intrusion event and propose a hypothesis through which it might reduce the intensity of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) rainfall (ISMR) after the monsoon onset during June 2014. The diagnostic analysis of ERA-Interim data revealed that stratospheric intrusion occurs in the region of the subtropical westerly jet (SWJ) as a result of Rossby wave breaking (RWB). The RWB event is associated with eddy shedding. These eddies transport extratropical stratospheric mass and energy fluxes downward and southward to north India (NI). As a result, the intrusion spreads dry, cold, and ozone-rich air deep into the troposphere (~500 hPa) over the NI. It enhanced the static stability and weakens the north–south upper-tropospheric temperature gradient. The intrusion of cold and dry air persisted for the entire June, which might have inhibited northward propagation of ISM convection and could be responsible for prolonged hiatus in northward phase propagation of the ISM after onset. The relation between stratospheric intrusion events and ISMR from long-term data (1979–2007) is also investigated. The analysis shows that the stronger negative anomalies of rainfall are associated with stratospheric intrusions during break spells. Thus, the study reveals that stratospheric intrusion is an important factor that may influence ISMR deficit.
The OWLeS IOP2b Lake-Effect Snowstorm: Dynamics of the Secondary Circulation
Authors: Bergmaier Philip T. , Geerts Bart , Campbell Leah S. , Steenburgh W. James
Published: March 2017

Intense lake-effect snowfall results from a long-lake-axis-parallel (LLAP) precipitation band that often forms when the flow is parallel to the long axis of an elongated body of water, such as Lake Ontario. The intensity and persistence of the localized precipitation along the downwind shore and farther inland suggests the presence of a secondary circulation that helps organize such a band, and maintain it for some time as the circulation is advected inland. Unique airborne vertical-plane dual-Doppler radar data are used here to document this secondary circulation in a deep, well-organized LLAP band observed during intensive observing period (IOP) 2b of the Ontario Winter Lake-effect Systems (OWLeS) field campaign. The circulation, centered on a convective updraft, intensified toward the downwind shore and only gradually weakened inland. The question arises as to what sustains such a circulation in the vertical plane across the LLAP band. WRF Model simulations indicate that the primary LLAP band and other convergence zones observed over Lake Ontario during this IOP were initiated by relatively shallow airmass boundaries, resulting from a thermal contrast (i.e., land-breeze front) and differential surface roughness across the southern shoreline. Airborne radar data near the downwind shore of the lake indicate that the secondary circulation was much deeper than these shallow boundaries and was sustained primarily by rather symmetric solenoidal forcing, enhanced by latent heat release within the updraft region.
Gas flow mechanisms under the effects of pore structures and permeability characteristics in source rocks of coal measures in Qinshui Basin, China
Authors: Hou Xiaowei , Zhu Yanming , Chen Shangbin , Wang Yang
Published: March 2017

The gas flow mechanisms in source rocks of coal measures under the effects of the pore structures and permeability characteristics were investigated by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, low-pressure nitrogen gas adsorption, high-pressure mercury intrusion, and pressure pulse decay permeability method. Various flow regimes were distinguished in the pores and fractures of differing scales, and the mass fluxes through the same were calculated using the data obtained by the numerical and experimental investigations. Results indicated that mesopores predominated in shale, while coal contained well-developed mesopores and macropores. In addition, the permeabilities of coal and shale were observed to be significantly anisotropic and highly stress dependent. The cross-sectional area proportions of the pores per unit cross-sectional area of the matrix in the free molecular, transition, and slip flow regimes in shale and coal were determined to be, respectively, 0.2:0.7:0.1 and 0.15:0.6:0.25. In the free molecular and transition flow regimes, the mass flux decreased with increasing reservoir depth, while the reverse was the case in the slip flow regime. Further, in the continuum flow regime, the mass flux was unimodally distributed with respect to the reservoir depth. The total mass flux in coal was greater in the direction perpendicular to the bedding compared to the direction parallel to the bedding, while the reverse was the case in shale. In addition, the continuum flow regime predominated in coal in both the directions perpendicular and parallel to the bedding, but only in the direction parallel to the bedding in shale. This work presents a comprehensive model for the analysis of all the flow regimes in pores and fractures of differing scales, as well as the anisotropy. Findings of the study are meaningful for establishing the coupling accumulation mechanism of the Three Coal Gases and developing a unified exploration and exploitation program.
Longitudinal Bone Mineralization Assessment in Children Treated With Long‐Term Parenteral Nutrition for Severe Intestinal Failure
Authors: Poinsot Pierre , Geoffroy Perrine , Braillon Pierre , Denis Angelique , Loras‐Duclaux Irene , Marotte Stéphanie , Boutroy Stéphanie , Bacchetta Justine , Touzet Sandrine , Lachaux Alain , Peretti Noel
Published: March 2017

Background: Metabolic bone disease is common in children receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN) for intestinal failure (IF). Long‐term evolution of bone mass in pediatric IF is poorly documented. The aims of this study were (1) to determine the prevalence of low bone mass (LBM) in children receiving HPN for IF, (2) to evaluate the evolution of total bone mineral content (TBMC) during HPN with dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), and (3) to identify related factors. Methods: All children referred in our HPN center from 2004 to 2014 were eligible. Inclusion criteria were HPN dependence due to noninflammatory IF, at least 2 TBMC assessments, and HPN duration of at least 2 years at last DXA. TBMC was expressed in z score for ideal weight for height (WFH). LBM was defined by a TBMC WFH z score ≤–2 standard deviations (SD). Results: A total of 175 DXAs for 31 children were performed, mean of 5.6 ± 2.9 assessments per child. The median time between first and last DXA recorded was 6.2 years (0.7–16.6). At the first DXA, 14 children (45%) had a LBM. TBMC increased by +0.1 ± 0.04 SD per year of HPN (P = .012). The risk of LBM decreased with an odds ratio of 0.9 per year of HPN (95% confidence interval, 0.92–0.99; P = .018). Lean mass z score and calcium parenteral intakes were related to the TBMC improvement. Conclusion: LBM is common in pediatric IF, but bone status could improve during HPN in these children.
Regulatory Forum Opinion Piece*: Use and Utility of Animal Models of Disease for Nonclinical Safety Assessment: A Pharmaceutical Industry Survey
Authors: Morgan Sherry J. , Couch Jessica , Guzzie-Peck Peggy , Keller Douglas A. , Kemper Ray , Otieno Monicah A. , Schulingkamp Robert J. , Jones Thomas W.
Published: March 2017

An Innovation and Quality (IQ) Consortium focus group conducted a cross-company survey to evaluate current practices and perceptions around the use of animal models of disease (AMDs) in nonclinical safety assessment of molecules in clinical development. The IQ Consortium group is an organization of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies with the mission of advancing science and technology. The survey queried the utilization of AMDs during drug discovery in which drug candidates are evaluated in efficacy models and limited short-duration non-Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) toxicology testing and during drug development in which drug candidates are evaluated in GLP toxicology studies. The survey determined that the majority of companies used AMDs during drug discovery primarily as a means for proactively assessing potential nonclinical safety issues prior to the conduct of toxicology studies, followed closely by the use of AMDs to better understand toxicities associated with exaggerated pharmacology in traditional toxicology models or to derisk issues when the target is only expressed in the disease state. In contrast, the survey results indicated that the use of AMDs in development is infrequent, being used primarily to investigate nonclinical safety issues associated with targets expressed only in disease states and/or in response to requests from global regulatory authorities.
Long-term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial on additional core stability exercises training for improving dynamic sitting balance and trunk control in stroke patients
Authors: Cabanas-Valdés Rosa , Bagur-Calafat Caritat , Girabent-Farrés Montserrat , Caballero-Gómez Fernanda Mª , du Port de Pontcharra-Serra Helena , German-Romero Ana , Urrútia Gerard
Published: March 2017

Objective:

Analyse the effect of core stability exercises in addition to conventional physiotherapy training three months after the intervention ended.

Design:

A randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Outpatient services.

Subjects:

Seventy-nine stroke survivors.

Interventions:

In the intervention period, both groups underwent conventional physiotherapy performed five days/week for five weeks, and in addition the experimental group performed core stability exercises for 15 minutes/day. Afterwards, during a three-month follow-up period, both groups underwent usual care that could eventually include conventional physiotherapy or physical exercise but not in a controlled condition.

Main measures:

Primary outcome was trunk control and dynamic sitting balance assessed by the Spanish-Version of Trunk Impairment Scale 2.0 and Function in Sitting Test. Secondary outcomes were standing balance and gait evaluated by the Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Test, Brunel Balance Assessment, Spanish-Version of Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke and activities of daily living using the Barthel Index.

Results:

A total of 68 subjects out of 79 completed the three-month follow-up period. The mean difference (SD) between groups was 0.78 (1.51) points ( p = 0.003) for total score on the Spanish-Version of Trunk Impairment Scale 2.0, 2.52 (6.46) points ( p = 0.009) for Function in Sitting Test, dynamic standing balance was 3.30 (9.21) points ( p= 0.009) on the Berg Balance Scale, gait was 0.82 (1.88) points ( p = 0.002) by Brunel Balance Assessment (stepping), and 1.11 (2.94) points ( p = 0.044) by Tinetti Test (gait), all in favour of core stability exercises.

Conclusions:

Core stability exercises plus conventional physiotherapy have a positive long-term effect on improving dynamic sitting and standing balance and gait in post-stroke patients.
Effects of varenicline on alcohol self-administration and craving in drinkers with depressive symptoms
Authors: Roberts Walter , Verplaetse Terril L , Moore Kelly , Oberleitner Lindsay , Picciotto Marina R , McKee Sherry A
Published: March 2017

Varenicline (VAR) is approved to aid in smoking cessation and has been shown to be effective for reducing alcohol consumption in heavy drinkers. Little is known, however, about treatment moderators that may influence efficacy. The current study reanalyzed data from a human laboratory study (Verplaetse et al., 2016) to determine whether VAR was more effective at reducing alcohol use among drinkers reporting symptoms of depression. Participants were 60 adults meeting DSM-IV criteria for alcohol use disorders ( n = 60) who were randomly assigned to receive VAR (1 mg/day, 2 mg/day) or placebo. Following 7 days of medication pretreatment, participants attended a laboratory testing session. They provided self-reported ratings of alcohol craving and performed an ad libitum alcohol consumption task after receiving a priming dose of alcohol (target blood alcohol concentration = 0.030 g/dL). Higher blood VAR plasma levels were associated with less alcohol craving and less drinking among participants with more depressive symptoms. Among participants with fewer depressive symptoms, VAR was associated with more drinking during the ad libitum drinking task. These findings show that depression symptoms may be a moderator of VAR efficacy in alcohol users and provides evidence for the role of nAChRs in depression and alcohol use.
Neuromelioidosis: a series of seven cases in Hainan province, China
Authors: Zhan Yuefu , Wu Yehua , Li Qun , Yu Anle
Published: March 2017

Melioidosis, which is caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is predominately a disease of tropical climates and is especially widespread in south-east Asia and northern Australia. Melioidosis affecting the central nervous system has a low incidence but a high mortality. We present seven cases of neuromelioidosis and analyze the disease characteristics and imaging features. Typical clinical features of this disease included high fever and headache. Five patients had an irregular fever with a temperature ≥ 39℃. Peripheral blood leukocytes and the neutrophil ratio were raised in all patients. On computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging the disease mainly manifested as intracerebral single or multiple nodules, as well as ring and flake-like enhancements with rapid lesion progression. This study demonstrated the importance of imaging examination in the clinical evaluation and diagnosis of neuromelioidosis.
Evaluation of GeneXpert MTB/RIF for detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a hospital in China
Authors: Tang Tingyu , Liu Fang , Lu Xiaoling , Huang Qingdong
Published: March 2017

Objective

To evaluate the performance of GeneXpert MTB/RIF in diagnosing pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in China.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included sputum specimens of 240 suspected TB cases. Specimens were examined by light microscopy for the presence of acid-fast bacilli, which were cultured by the BACTEC MGIT 960 (M960) system and detected by the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay. The positive rate, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and average turnaround time of methods were evaluated.

Results

The positive rate was 36.6% (87/238) for the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay and 34.0% (81/238) by M960 culture, with no significant difference between methods (χ2 = 0.33, p > 0.05). According to culture results, sensitivity of the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay was 84.0% (68/81), specificity was 87.8% (129/147), the PPV was 78.2% (68/87), and the NPV was 87.2% (129/148). The agreement for results between Gene Xpert MTB/RIF and the M960 system was 82.8% and the Kappa value was 0.73.

Conclusion

The GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay is a simple, rapid, and accurate test for detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum specimens.
Establishment of a three-dimensional finite element model of severe kyphotic deformity secondary to ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Muheremu Aikeremujiang , Li Hui , Ma Junyi , Ma Yong , Ma Yuan
Published: March 2017

Objective

To establish a three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) model of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) kyphosis that is a digital platform for further studies.

Methods

A 30-year-old man with AS kyphosis underwent computed tomography transverse scanning from T1 to the sacrococcyx. The images were imported into Mimics® 17.0 software to establish a 3D model of the posterior spine, which was then imported into Studio Geomagic 2013 software. Posterior spine convex geometry was established on the 3D geometric model for subsequent optimization of image processing. Unigraphics NX 8.5 produced the spinal kyphosis surface model. Modeled calcification of ligaments and partial resection of useless sacral bone were added. The model was imported into ANSYS 15.0 FE analysis software. Ligaments were added. Parameters were set to generate a 3D FE model of AS.

Results and Conclusion

A 3D FE model of AS was successfully established, providing a reliable digital platform for subsequent biomechanical analysis.
Prognostic Significance of Canine Mammary Tumor Histologic Subtypes: An Observational Cohort Study of 229 Cases
Authors: Rasotto Roberta , Berlato Davide , Goldschmidt Michael H. , Zappulli Valentina
Published: March 2017

Histopathology is considered the gold standard diagnostic method for canine mammary tumors. In 2011, a new histologic classification for canine mammary tumors was proposed. The present study was a 2-year prospective study that validated the 2011 classification as an independent prognostic indicator with multivariate analysis in a population of 229 female dogs, identifying subtype-specific median survival times (MST) and local recurrence/distant metastasis rates. Dogs with benign tumors and carcinoma arising in benign mixed tumors all had an excellent prognosis. Dogs with complex carcinoma and simple tubular carcinoma also experienced prolonged survival. Those with simple tubulopapillary carcinoma, intraductal papillary carcinoma, and carcinoma and malignant myoepithelioma had a more than 10-fold higher risk of tumor-related death. The prognosis was even worse for adenosquamous carcinoma (MST = 18 months), comedocarcinoma (MST = 14 months), and solid carcinoma (MST = 8 months). The most unfavorable outcome was for anaplastic carcinoma (MST = 3 months) and carcinosarcoma (MST = 3 months), which also had the highest metastatic rates (89% and 100%, respectively). Adenosquamous carcinoma exhibited the highest local recurrence rate (50%). In the same canine population, the tumor diameter was recognized as a strong predictor of local recurrence/distant metastasis and an independent prognosticator of survival in the multivariate analysis. Excision margins were predictive only of local recurrence, whereas lymphatic invasion and histologic grade were predictive of local recurrence/distant metastasis and survival, although only in univariate analyses. In conclusion, this study validated the 2011 classification scheme and provided information to be used in the clinical setting and as the basis for future prognostic studies.