bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Results of Combination Treatment with Single-Dose Ranibizumab plus Photodynamic Therapy for Retinal Angiomatous Proliferation
Authors: Malamos Panagiotis , Tservakis Ioannis , Kanakis Menelaos , Koutsiouki Chrysoula , Kiskira Evita , Mylonas Georgios , Lakoumentas John , Georgalas Ilias
Published: May 2018

Purpose: To present functional and anatomic outcomes of combination therapy with ranibizumab and photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a series of retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP) cases. Methods: A total of 17 eyes of 17 patients with RAP were included. Thirteen eyes were treatment naïve and 4 were already on ranibizumab monotherapy. Combined treatment with single-dose ranibizumab and PDT was performed on all treatment-naïve cases. Follow-up was performed every month for 6–38 months, using optical coherence tomography and indocyanine green angiography when necessary. Results: Overall, 6 out of 7 treatment-naïve cases with stage I or II disease manifested complete angiographic resolution of the hot spot with a single injection of ranibizumab plus PDT. In stage III disease, 7 out of 10 eyes showed persistent leakage immediately after the combined treatment. The rate of hot spot occlusion was found to correlate with the stage of disease (p = 0.05). There was a significant improvement in posttreatment BCVA for all patients regardless of disease stage (p = 0.02), which was more evident in the earlier stages. Improvement was also greater for treatment-naïve patients (p = 0.03). The posttreatment improvement in BCVA was strongly correlated with hot spot occlusion (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Single-dose modified anti-VEGF treatment in combination with PDT may provide long-term regression at the initial stages of RAP.
Reliability of a New Symptom Score in a Titrated Quantitative Conjunctival Provocation Test Supported by an Objective Photodocumentation
Authors: Pfaar Oliver , Claßen Dan Philipp , Astvatsatourov Anatoli , Klimek Ludger , Mösges Ralph
Published: May 2018

Background: Allergen provocation tests are useful methods for proving the clinical relevance of an allergen-specific sensitization. Among these methods, the conjunctival provocation test (CPT) represents an easy-to-use tool. However, its readout parameters have not yet been internationally standardized or validated. Photodocumentation has been shown as a good option for objectifying a CPT reaction, supporting the local investigator assessment. Based on test-retest reliability of the score and an objective digital photoanalysis of the conjunctival redness, this study aimed to prove the reproducibility of a new CPT scoring system for use in clinical trials (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02690740). Methods: A titrated quantitative CPT was conducted outside of the pollen season in a final cohort of 23 adult patients with birch or grass pollen-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Conjunctival symptoms were analyzed using a standardized symptom score. Conjunctival redness was also evaluated by an external observer and correlated with a digital photoanalysis using MATLAB software. Results: A test-retest correlation of 0.6 (p < 0.01) was found for the symptom score results. Likewise, a correlation of 0.65 (p < 0.01) was observed in the digital photoanalysis. The total symptom score showed a decrease in the mean value of 0.48 score points in the retest. Conclusions: This study reveals both a valuable test-retest correlation of the proposed score as well as a good correlation of eye redness with the (objective) photodocumentation. Based on our results, we can recommend the use of this scoring system as a valuable clinical protocol for future clinical trials.
Opportunities and Challenges in Global Perinatal Research
Authors: Duby Jessica , Sharma Renee , Bhutta Zulfiqar A.
Published: May 2018

Background: The global plight of stillbirths and neonatal mortality is concentrated in low- and middle-income countries. The ambitious targets introduced by the World Health Organization in the Every Newborn Action Plan demand a commitment to research that promotes equitable perinatal outcomes. Objectives: The aim of this review was to understand the opportunities for global perinatal research and the accompanying challenges. Methods: We conducted a literature search to identify research prioritization exercises from 2014 to 2018 pertaining to global perinatal health. The top 50 questions with the highest research prioritization scores were extracted and analyzed. Results: The greatest priorities centered on community-based, implementation research targeting major causes of stillbirth and neonatal mortality in low-resource settings. The priorities are saddled with prerequisite conditions, design obstacles, and ethical considerations that require attention. Conclusions: While the challenges are undeniable, the need to make the perinatal period healthier for babies worldwide has never been clearer.
Congenital Pyriform Sinus Fistula: Management of an Extra-Delayed and Atypical Case
Authors: Montevecchi Filippo , Caranti Alberto , Cammaroto Giovanni , Buci Lisa , Brevi Bruno , Vicini Claudio
Published: May 2018

Clinical presentations of pyriform sinus fistulas vary, and this sometimes leads to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Recently, we experienced a case of recurrent cervical abscesses occurring after thyroidectomy in an adult affected by a bifidus pyriform sinus fistula. The diagnostic dilemma was related to the timing of events, with a single episode of acute suppurative thyroiditis having occurred 16 years before the onset of the more recent clinical scenario. An endoscopic approach allowed effective management of this clinical case.
Outcomes of Single-Operator Cholangioscopy-Guided Lithotripsy in Patients with Difficult Biliary and Pancreatic Stones
Authors: Canena Jorge , Lopes Luís , Fernandes João , Alexandrino Gonçalo , Lourenço Luís , Libânio Diogo , Horta David , Giestas Sílvia , Reis Jorge
Published: May 2018

Background and Aims: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is the preferred strategy for the management of biliary and pancreatic duct stones. However, difficult stones occur, and electrohydraulic (EHL) and laser lithotripsy (LL) have emerged as treatment modalities for ductal clearance. Recently, single-operator cholangioscopy was introduced, permitting the routine use of these techniques. We aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of cholangioscopy-guided lithotripsy using LL or EHL in patients with difficult biliary or pancreatic stones. Methods: This is a prospective clinical study – conducted at two affiliated university hospitals – of 17 consecutive patients with difficult biliary and pancreatic stones who underwent single-operator cholangioscopy-guided lithotripsy using two techniques: holmium laser lithotripsy (HL) or bipolar EHL. We analyzed complete ductal clearance as well as the impact of the location and number of stones on clinical success and evaluated the efficacy of the two techniques used for cholangioscopy-guided lithotripsy and procedural complications. Results: Twelve patients (70.6%) had stones in the common bile duct/common hepatic duct, 2 patients (17.6%) had a stone in the cystic stump, and 3 patients (17.6%) had stones in the pancreas. Sixteen patients (94.1%) were successfully managed in 1 session, and 1 patient (5.9%) achieved ductal clearance after 3 sessions including EHL, LL, and mechanical lithotripsy. Eleven patients were successfully submitted to HL in 1 session using a single laser fiber. Six patients were treated with EHL: 4 patients achieved ductal clearance in 1 session with a single fiber, 1 patient obtained successful fragmentation in 1 session using two fibers, and 1 patient did not achieve ductal clearance after using two fibers and was successfully treated with a single laser fiber in a subsequent session. Complications were mild and were encountered in 6/17 patients (35.2%), including fever (n = 3), pain (n = 1), and mild pancreatitis (n = 1). Conclusions: Cholangioscopy-guided lithotripsy using LL or EHL in patients with difficult biliary or pancreatic stones is highly effective with transient and minimal complications. There is a clear need to further compare EHL and HL in order to assess their role in the success of cholangioscopy-guided lithotripsy.
A Serpiginous Pericallosal Anterior Cerebral Artery
Authors: Ezzeldin Mohamad , Youssef Eslam W. , Sultan-Qurraie Ali , Lin Eugene , Zaidat Osama O.
Published: May 2018

The anterior cerebral artery (ACA) is a unique artery with many important variations with substantial clinical significance. Tortuous intracranial arteries usually occur in basilar, communicating, anterior, posterior cerebral arteries and in the white matter arterioles. This could happen for many reasons including but not limited to ageing, hypertension, patients with Moyamoya disease, congenital malformation, or increased flow associated with elastin degradation. While dolichoectasia of the ACA has been described even in children, to our knowledge, a serpiginous ACA without ectasia has not been reported, especially in the pediatric population.
Endovascular Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment with FlowGate Balloon Guide Catheter: A Single-Center Observational Study of FlowGate Balloon Guide Catheter Use
Authors: Teleb Mohamed S.
Published: May 2018

Background: Treatment of large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke with mechanical thrombectomy has become the standard of care after recent clinical trials. However, the degree of recanalization with stent retrievers remains very important in overall outcomes. We sought to review the utility of a new balloon guide catheter (BGC) in improving the degree of recanalization in conjunction with mechanical thrombectomy. Methods: The medical records of a prospectively collected endovascular ischemic stroke database were reviewed. All consecutive strokes when a FlowGate BGC was used with a thrombectomy stent retriever were identified. Use of a FlowGate BGC, number of passes, final Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score, trackability, and use of adjunct devices were all collected and analyzed. Results: Use of a FlowGate BGC resulted in 64% (33/52) first-pass effect (FPE) of TICI 2b/3, and specifically 46% (24/52) TICI 3 FPE (true FPE). A total of 52/62 (84%) of thrombectomy cases were treated with BGCs. In the remaining 10, the BGC was not inflated or used due to the clot not being visualized or the lesions being distal and BGC use thus not deemed appropriate. Adjunct use of an aspiration catheter was seen in 12% (6/52) of cases. The overall success with FlowGate BGCs with one or more passes of TICI 2b/3 was 94% (49/52). Trackability was achieved in 92% (57/62) of cases. Conclusions: Use of the FlowGate BGC as an adjunct to mechanical thrombectomy was associated with good FPE and an overall recanalization of TICI 2b/3 of 94%.
Multiple Actions of Rotenone, an Inhibitor of Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain, on Ionic Currents and Miniature End-Plate Potential in Mouse Hippocampal (mHippoE-14) Neurons
Authors: Huang Chin-Wei , Lin Kao-Min , Hung Te-Yu , Chuang Yao-Chung , Wu Sheng-Nan
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Rotenone (Rot) is known to suppress the activity of complex I in the mitochondrial chain reaction; however, whether this compound has effects on ion currents in neurons remains largely unexplored. Methods: With the aid of patch-clamp technology and simulation modeling, the effects of Rot on membrane ion currents present in mHippoE-14 cells were investigated. Results: Addition of Rot produced an inhibitory action on the peak amplitude of INa with an IC50 value of 39.3 µM; however, neither activation nor inactivation kinetics of INa was changed during cell exposure to this compound. Addition of Rot produced little or no modifications in the steady-state inactivation curve of INa. Rot increased the amplitude of Ca2+-activated Cl- current in response to membrane depolarization with an EC50 value of 35.4 µM; further addition of niflumic acid reversed Rot-mediated stimulation of this current. Moreover, when these cells were exposed to 10 µM Rot, a specific population of ATP-sensitive K+ channels with a single-channel conductance of 18.1 pS was measured, despite its inability to alter single-channel conductance. Under current clamp condition, the frequency of miniature end-plate potentials in mHippoE-14 cells was significantly raised in the presence of Rot (10 µM) with no changes in their amplitude and time course of rise and decay. In simulated model of hippocampal neurons incorporated with chemical autaptic connection, increased autaptic strength to mimic the action of Rot was noted to change the bursting pattern with emergence of subthreshold potentials. Conclusions: The Rot effects presented herein might exert a significant action on functional activities of hippocampal neurons occurring in vivo.
Overexpression of PCK1 Gene Antagonizes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through the Activation of Gluconeogenesis and Suppression of Glycolysis Pathways
Authors: Tang Yufu , Zhang Yibing , Wang Chunhui , Sun Zhongyi , Li Longfei , Cheng Shuqun , Zhou Wenping
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Gluconeogenesis, a reverse process of glycolysis, is suppressed in neoplastic livers. Cytoplasmic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK-C/PCK1, encoded by PCK1) is a step limiting enzyme of gluconeogenesis. The induced expression of the factor is reported to initiate gluconeogenesis process and antagonize hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the current study, the effect of the modulation of PCK1 expression on HCC was assessed. Methods: The levels of PCK1 in clinical HCC tissues and different HCC cell lines were investigated with real time quantitative PCR, immunochemistry, and western blotting. Thereafter, the expression of PCK1 gene was induced in two HCC cell lines and the effect of the overexpression on proliferation and migration potentials of HCC cells was detected with CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining, and transwell assay. The activities of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis pathways in PCK1-overexpressed HCC cell lines were detected with specific kits to underlie the mechanism by which PCK1 exerted its function. The results of the in vitro experiments were validated with HCC xenograft rat models. Results: The expression levels of PCK1 were suppressed in HCC samples and in cells derived from HCC tissues. According to the results of the in vitro assays, the overexpression of PCK1 decreased viability, induced apoptosis, and inhibited migration in both HCC cell lines. The effect was associated with the suppressed glycolysis and the induced gluconeogenesis pathways, represented by the enhanced production of glucose and the limited production of pyruvic acid, lactate, citrate, and malate. The results of the in vitro assays were confirmed in rat models in that the growth rate of solid HCC tumors was reduced in mice transplanted with PCK1-overexpressed HCC cells. Conclusion: Findings outlined in the current study demonstrated that activating gluconeogenesis process via PCK1 overexpression was a potential treating strategy against HCC.
The composition of Tiberius Caeser Augustus as a political character in Tacitus’ annals
Authors: Campos Rafael Da Costa
Published: May 2018

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma análise s obre o imperador Tibério César Augusto (14- 37 d.C.) – personagem bastante presente nos escritos de Cornélio Tácito na primeira metade que nos chegou dos Anais –, ressaltando algumas das mais relevantes exposições historiográficas sobre sua caracterização, observando a importância da relação entre Principado e liberdade política, composição narrativa e o uso das fontes históricas pelo historiador.
Homo Oeconomicos: The Athenian Metics in the XIX and XX Century Historiography
Authors: Morales Fábio Augusto
Published: May 2018

Este artigo apresenta um estudo crítico da historiografia sobre os metecos atenienses discutindo os limites e possibilidades de estudos feitos por q uatro autores (Clerc, Whitehead, Román e Baslez). O artigo termina com uma análise de um discurso de Lísias chamado Contra Filon , acerca de um cidadão ateniense que se torna meteco em uma pólis próxima de Atenas, Oropus, durante o regime dos Trinta e a subsequente guerra de restauração democrática; esta análise é aqui apresentada como um exemplo de superação da dicotomia tradicional cidadão (homo politicus)/meteco (homo oeconomicus), mostrando ao mesmo tempo uma motivação econômica na escolha de um cidadão diante da lealdade política de metecos que lutaram nas fileiras democráticas
Hero and Crowd Interactions in the Iliad
Authors: Oliveira Gustavo Junqueira Duarte
Published: May 2018

Com este artigo pretende-se discutir a relação entre herói e multidão na Ilíada sob o ponto de vista do conceito de identidade relacionado à metáfora teatral sugerida por Goffman para a análise das interações sociais. Privilegiou-se o estudo de alguns discursos dos personagens acerca do papel que se espera dos heróis, bem como de cenas em que a relação ator/plateia tem maior ênfase. Por fim, propõe-se uma análise das repercussões materiais das disputas identitárias no interior da sociedade apresentada no poema.
Questions Concerning the Study of Ancient Economy: Notes for a Discussion
Authors: Gaia Deivid Valério
Published: May 2018

Neste breve ensaio, o meu objetivo principal é levantar algumas questões no que tange o estudo da Economia romana; procuro pensar no próprio conceito de Economia Antiga, no seu funcionamento, na forma como a estudamos e alguns cuidados que devemos tomar. O objetivo é fomentar um pouco de discussão em torno do tema, que depois do advento da história cultural e da “crise” do marxismo, tem sido tão pouco estudado. Na primeira parte, apresento algumas considerações sobre o debate entre primitivistas e modernistas, sobre a questão das fontes, o conceito de economia para os romanos, e a importância do contexto. Na segunda parte, apresento discussões iniciais sobre a importância do espaço (geo-história) para o estudo das economias romanas.
Romanization and the 20th and 21th Centuries: The Dissolution of a Concept
Authors: Silva Bruno Dos Santos
Published: May 2018

Este artigo pretende traçar um panorama sobre o papel do conceito de Romanização nos estudos relativos aos contatos entre romanos e os povos de regiões para além da península Itálica. Procuraremos analisá-lo tendo como pano de fundo as transformações que a própria disciplina História sofreu desde o século XIX. O artigo visa entender como as mudanças de paradigmas, do Estado-Nação às identidades, afetaram os usos e os significados deste conceito..
Transient Outward K
+
Current (I
to
) Underlies the Right Ventricular Initiation of Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia in a Transgenic Rabbit Model of Long-QT Syndrome Type 1
Authors: Choi Bum-Rak , Li Weiyan , Terentyev Dmitry , Kabakov Anatoli Y. , Zhong Mingwang , Rees Colin M. , Terentyeva Radmila , Kim Tae Yun , Qu Zhilin , Peng Xuwen , Karma Alain , Koren Gideon
Published: May 2018

Background:

Sudden death in long-QT syndrome type 1 (LQT1), an inherited disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in KCNQ1, is triggered by early afterdepolarizations (EADs) that initiate polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (pVT). We investigated ionic mechanisms that underlie pVT in LQT1 using a transgenic rabbit model of LQT1.

Methods:

Optical mapping, cellular patch clamping, and computer modeling were used to elucidate the mechanisms of EADs in transgenic LQT1 rabbits.

RESULTS:

The results showed that shorter action potential duration in the right ventricle (RV) was associated with focal activity during pVT initiation. RV cardiomyocytes demonstrated higher incidence of EADs under 50 nmol/L isoproterenol. Voltage-clamp studies revealed that the transient outward potassium current (I
to
) magnitude was 28% greater in RV associated with KChiP2 but with no differences in terms of calcium-cycling kinetics and other sarcolemmal currents. Perfusing with the I
to
blocker 4-aminopyridine changed the initial focal sites of pVT from the RV to the left ventricle, corroborating the role of I
to
in pVT initiation. Computer modeling showed that EADs occur preferentially in the RV because of the larger conductance of the slow-inactivating component of I
to
, which repolarizes the membrane potential sufficiently rapidly to allow reactivation of I
Ca,L
before I
Kr
has had sufficient time to activate.

Conclusions:

I
to
heterogeneity creates both triggers and an arrhythmogenic substrate in LQT1. In the absence of I
Ks
, I
to
interactions with I
Ca,L
and I
Kr
promote EADs in the RV while prolonging action potential duration in the left ventricle. This heterogeneity of action potential enhances dispersion of refractoriness and facilitates conduction blocks that initiate pVTs.
Early and Chronic Dipeptidyl‐Peptidase‐IV Inhibition and Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus After an Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Landmark Analysis of the EXAMINE Trial
Authors: Sharma Abhinav , Cannon Christopher P. , White William B. , Liu Yuyin , Bakris George L. , Cushman William C. , Zannad Faiez
Published: May 2018

Background

Antihyperglycemic therapies may increase the risk of cardiovascular events including hospitalization for heart failure. There is a paucity of data evaluating the cardiovascular safety of antihyperglycemic therapies in the high‐risk period following an acute coronary syndrome (
ACS
).

Methods and Results

The
EXAMINE
(Examination of Cardiovascular Outcomes with Alogliptin versus Standard of Care) trial randomized 5380 patients who were 15 to 90 days post
ACS
to the dipeptidyl dipeptidase‐IV (
DPP
‐
IV
) inhibitor alogliptin versus placebo; mean follow‐up was 18 months. Using a landmark analysis, we assessed the (1) burden of cardiovascular events from randomization to 6 months (early period) and from 6 months to the end of follow‐up (late period) and (2) the risk of cardiovascular events associated with early (up to 6 months) and chronic (6 months to end of follow‐up)
DPP
‐
IV
inhibition with alogliptin. Patients with early versus late events had similar baseline demographic profiles. Overall, 42.1% of the composite of cardiovascular death/myocardial infarction/stroke and 47.5% of hospitalization for heart failure occurred in the early period. Early
DPP
‐
IV
inhibition did not increase the risk of early cardiovascular death/myocardial infarction/stroke (hazard ratio 0.96, 95% confidence interval, 0.76–1.21) or hospitalization for heart failure (1.23, 95% confidence interval, 0.84–1.82). Similarly, chronic
DPP
‐
IV
inhibition did not increase the risk of late cardiovascular death/myocardial infarction/stroke (hazard ratio 1.03, 95% confidence interval, 0.89–1.26) or hospitalization for heart failure (hazard ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval, 0.85–1.22).

Conclusions

Early after an
ACS
, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus experience a significant burden of
HF
events and recurrent
ACS
.
DPP
‐
IV
inhibition with alogliptin appears to be safe even in the high‐risk period following an
ACS
.
New subgenus and four species of Lepidocyrtus Bourlet (Collembola, Entomobryidae, Lepidocyrtinae) from Amazon
Authors: Cipola Nikolas G. , de Morais José W. , Bellini Bruno C.
Published: May 2018

Here a new subgenus of Lepidocyrtus Bourlet from South America is proposed. Fractocyrtus
subgen.n. differs from other subgenera by tergal polychaetosis, dental tubercle truncate and dentes with numerous spine-like chaetae. Four new species of Lepidocyrtus are described, two of Setogaster Salmon and two of Fractocyrtus
subgen.n.
Lepidocyrtus (S.) amazonicus
sp.n. and L. (S.) multisensillatus
sp.n. are similar to L. nigrosetosus Folsom by basomedian field with chaetae smooth and dental tubercle rounded, but differ in dorsal chaetotaxy. Lepidocyrtus (F.) americanus
sp.n. and L. (F.) mateosi
sp.n. are similar by presence of numerous dental spines, but differ in chaetotaxy. Due to inconsistencies concerning scales on appendages of Lepidocyrtus subgenera, four synonyms are proposed, and the characteristics diagnostic to subgenera are shape and presence of dental tubercle, dental spines, mucronal spinelet and apical bulb of fourth antennal segment. An identification key to subgenera is also provided.
A new species of Microhyla Tschudi, 1838 (Anura: Microhylidae) from West Coast of India: an integrative taxonomic approach
Authors: VINEETH KUMAR K. , RADHAKRISHNA U. K. , GODWIN R. D. , ANWESHA SAHA , RAJASHEKHAR K. PATIL , ARAVIND N. A.
Published: May 2018

A new species of microhylid frog Microhyla kodial sp. nov. from the west coast of India is described in this paper. It is distinct from all described species of Microhyla occurring in South and Southeast Asia as revealed by a combination of morphological, molecular and acoustic characters. The new species is characterized by absence of lateral body stripe, tuberculated dorsal skin surface, absence of webbing between fingers, presence of basal webbing between toes and absence of dorsal marginal groove on finger and toe disc. Each male advertisement call lasts for 0.11–0.42 s and is comprised of 2–7 pulses with a dominant frequency of 3.3–4.2 kHz. The breeding season is short, limited to the rainy season (June to September) and the females lay up to 300 eggs per clutch. A molecular phylogenetic tree constructed using the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene shows that M. kodial sp. nov. is closely related to the M. achatina group from Southeast Asia. The uncorrected genetic divergence between the new species and its closest congeners M. heymonsi, M. mantheyi, M. borneensis and M. orientalis were 7.3–7.6 %, 7.5–7.8%, 7.8–8.1% and 8.1–8.4% respectively. At present, this species is known only from the type locality, a highly disturbed urban and industrialized area which needs conservation intervention.
A new species catfish, Amphilius pagei (Siluriformes: Amphiliidae) from Angola
Authors: THOMSON ALFRED W. , SWARTZ ERNST R.
Published: May 2018

Amphilius pagei, a new species of amphiliid catfish is described from the Cuanza River basin in Angola. It is distinguished from all other species of Amphilius by the combination of presence (vs. absence) of an epidermal fold at the base of the caudal fin, 6+7 (i,5,6,i) principal caudal-fin rays (vs. 7+8 or 8+9), a variably mottled body coloration that includes dark saddles (vs. body coloration not mottled with dark saddles), head and body heavily spotted (vs. head and body not heavily spotted), epidermal fold smooth (vs. crenelations present on epidermal fold), branchiostegal rays usually eight or nine, and total gill rakers usually 12–16. It is most similar to A. lentiginosus which has a crenelated epidermal fold and fewer branchiostegal rays.
Description of a new species of Gracixalus (Amphibia: Anura: Rhacophoridae) from Guangdong Province, southeastern China
Authors: WANG JIAN , ZENG ZHAO-CHI , LYU ZHI-TONG , LIU ZU-YAO , WANG YING-YONG
Published: May 2018

A new species of tree frog, G. guangdongensis sp nov., is described based on a series of specimens collected from Dawuling Forest Station, Mount Nankun and Nanling Nature Reserve of Guangdong Province, southeastern China. The new species is distinguished from all known congeners by a significant genetic divergence at the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene fragment examined (p-distance ≥ 4.6%) and the following combination of morphological characters: relatively small body size (SVL 26.1–34.7 mm in adult males, 34.9–35.4 mm in adult females); upper eyelid and dorsum lacking spines; supratympanic fold and tympanum distinct; dorsal and lateral surface rough, sparsely scattered with tubercles; ventral skin granular; tibiotarsal projection absent; toe-webbing moderately developed, finger webbing rudimentary; heels slightly overlapping when flexed hindlimbs are held at right angles to the body axis; brown to beige above, with an inverse Y-shaped dark brown marking extendeing from the interorbital region to the centre of the dorsum; males with a single subgular vocal sac and protruding nuptial pads with minute granules on the dorsal surface of the base of first finger. The discovery and description of Gracixalus guangdongensis sp. nov. represents the 14th species known in this genus.
Shaping and Being Shaped: How Organizational Structure and Managerial Discretion Co-evolve in New Managerial Roles
Authors: Sandhu Sukhbir , Kulik Carol T.
Published: May 2018

As new roles emerge in organizations, it becomes critical to understand how organizational structure can impede or enable the managerial discretion available to role incumbents. We leverage the rich context provided by the emergent role of sustainability managers to examine the interplay between the top-down forces of structure and the bottom-up influences of managerial discretion in shaping new organizational roles over time. We analyzed qualitative data collected from in-depth interviews with sustainability managers in 21 case study organizations in India and Australia, supplemented with archival and observational data. We identified three organizational configurations, with varying levels of top-down structural and bottom-up managerial discretion dynamics at play. Each configuration had different implications for the manager’s role. Our analysis suggests that the third configuration—with semi-structured formalization and a decentralized sustainability program—provided the most conducive conditions for managers to use their discretion to champion innovative sustainability initiatives. New managerial roles in the other configurations, however, do not have to be static. With the maturation of organizational programs and active championing by managers, the structuring of organizational functions and managerial roles can co-evolve. Our findings describe a process of “shaping and being shaped,” as structure and managerial discretion co-evolve over time.
Factors Predictive of Postoperative Acute Respiratory Failure Following Inpatient Sinus Surgery
Authors: Burton Brittany N. , Gilani Sapideh , Swisher Matthew W. , Urman Richard D. , Schmidt Ulrich H. , Gabriel Rodney A.
Published: May 2018

Objective:

The impact of perioperative risk factors on outcomes following outpatient sinus surgery is well defined; however, risk factors and outcomes following inpatient surgery remain poorly understood. We aimed to define risk factors of postoperative acute respiratory failure following inpatient sinus surgery.

Methods:

Utilizing data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database from the years 2010 to 2014, we identified patients (≥18 years of age) with an Internal Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) procedure code of sinus surgery. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors of postoperative acute respiratory failure.

Results:

We identified 4919 patients with a median age of 53 years. The rate of inpatient postoperative acute respiratory failure was 3.35%. Chronic sinusitis (57.7%) was the most common discharge diagnosis. The final multivariable logistic regression analysis suggested that pneumonia, bleeding disorder, alcohol dependence, nutritional deficiency, heart failure, paranasal fungal infections, and chronic kidney disease were associated with increased odds of acute respiratory failure (all P < .05).

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this represents the first study to evaluate potential risk factors of acute respiratory failure following inpatient sinus surgery. Knowledge of these risk factors may be used for risk stratification.
Integrating Implicit Leadership Theories, Leader–Member Exchange, Self-Efficacy, and Attachment Theory to Predict Job Performance
Authors: Khorakian Alireza , Sharifirad Mohammad Sadegh
Published: May 2018

The impact of implicit leadership theories on performance and the mechanism linking them have received insufficient theoretical and research attention. Drawing on Bandura's social cognitive theory, the present study contributes theory through examining the assertion that higher congruence between followers' implicit leadership theory and the characteristics of supervisors enhance job performance through higher quality of leader–member exchange and self-efficacy. Moreover, in the proposed model, attachment insecurity was considered as the antecedent of the congruence and leader–member exchange in addition to the moderator of the relationship between them. Capitalizing upon Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), this study tested the model in a field study using a sample of employees in knowledge-oriented firms in Iran. The results suggest that the congruence between followers' implicit leadership theory and the characteristics of supervisors does not directly impact performance and leader–member exchange and self-efficacy are the full mediators. The results also showed that attachment insecurity is the predictor of neither the congruence nor the leader–member exchange. Additionally, attachment insecurity moderates the relationship between these two variables in a way that when attachment insecurity is high, the congruence has more positive impact on leader–member exchange.
The Patient-to-Prisoner Pipeline: The IMD Exclusion's Adverse Impact on Mass Incarceration in United States
Authors: Onah Michael E.
Published: May 2018

A component of the 1965 Medicaid Act, the Institutions for Mental Diseases (“IMD”) Exclusion was supposed to be a remedy for the brutal, dysfunctional mental healthcare system run through state hospitals. In the years since Medicaid was created, the IMD Exclusion has instead barred thousands of those in need of intensive, inpatient treatment from receiving it. As a result, many severely mentally ill individuals are left without adequate care and without a home. They struggle in the street where they are otherized by those in their community and are susceptible to confrontational episodes with law enforcement. Many are ultimately incarcerated, where they are thrust into an abusive environment known to exacerbate mental health issues.

This Note's central contention is that the IMD Exclusion creates an access gap for the poorest Americans who suffer from mental illness. Subsequently, prisons and jails fill that gap to the detriment of those individuals. The Note will proceed first by explaining the IMD Exclusion and how it applies to state-run medical care services and facilities. This Note will discuss the nationwide movement, in the 1950s through the 1960s and ‘70s, to deinstitutionalize notoriously abusive state psychiatric hospitals, a movement that culminated in the passage of the Medicaid Act in 1965, along with the IMD Exclusion. This Note will then shift focus to criticize the practical effects of the IMD Exclusion and its extensive role in the mass incarceration issue today. In doing so, this Note will identify the major weaknesses of the IMD Exclusion and explain how these weaknesses create an access gap for mentally ill persons, while simultaneously making them more vulnerable to contact with the police and the criminal justice system.
Synthesis of a Proportional Integral Derivative control law based on the Meixner-like model
Authors: Maraoui Safa , Bouzrara Kais , Ragot José
Published: May 2018

This paper proposes a new Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) control algorithm based on the Meixner-like model. The Meixner-like functions are an extension of Laguerre functions and are convenient when the system has a slow start. The parameters of the PID controller are auto adjusted by the model predictive control (MPC) technique. To improve system performance, the resolution of the problem of saturation of the control signal is proposed. A numerical example of a variable parameter system is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
Impact of paliperidone palmitate one-month formulation on relapse prevention in patients with schizophrenia: A post-hoc analysis of a one-year, open-label study stratified by medication adherence
Authors: Si Tianmei , Li Nan , Lu Huafei , Cai Shangli , Zhuo Jianmin , Correll Christoph U , Zhang Lili , Feng Yu
Published: May 2018

Background:

Limited data are available to help identify patients with schizophrenia who are most likely to benefit from long-acting injectable antipsychotics.

Aim:

To investigate the efficacy of long-acting injectable antipsychotic paliperidone palmitate one-month formulation for preventing relapses, factors influencing time to first relapse, and the effect of different antipsychotic adherence levels on time to first relapse in Chinese patients with schizophrenia.

Methods:

This was a post-hoc analysis from an open-label, single-arm study of stable patients (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale total score <70; n=367) receiving paliperidone palmitate one-month formulation at the end of an acute 13-week treatment phase, who entered a naturalistic one-year follow-up period, either continuing with flexibly dosed paliperidone palmitate one-month formulation (75–150 mg eq.) or switching to another antipsychotic(s).

Results:

There were 362/367 patients (age=31.4±10.75 years) included in the analysis of time to first relapse (primary outcome) and 327/362 patients (39/327, poor antipsychotic adherence (<80%)) willing to receive antipsychotics were included in the exposure/adherence analysis. Overall, 84.6% (95% confidence interval=79.2–88.7) patients remained relapse-free. Poor adherence during follow-up (hazard ratio=2.97, 95% confidence interval=1.48–5.98, p=0.002) and frequent hospitalizations in the previous year (hazard ratio=1.29, 95% confidence interval=1.02–1.62, p=0.03) were associated with a significant risk of shorter time to first relapse in the univariate analysis. In patients with poor adherence, ‘no use’ (hazard ratio=13.13, 95% confidence interval=1.33–129.96, p=0.03) and ‘interrupted use’ (hazard ratio=11.04, 95% confidence interval=1.03–118.60, p=0.047) of paliperidone palmitate one-month formulation (vs continued use) showed a significantly higher risk of relapse; this was not observed in patients with good (≥80%) antipsychotic adherence. No new safety concerns were identified.

Conclusion:

Continued use of paliperidone palmitate one-month formulation/long-acting injectable antipsychotic was effective in preventing schizophrenia relapses, especially in patients with suboptimal antipsychotic adherence.
Evolving Supply Chains and Local Freight Flows: A Geographic Information System Analysis of Minnesota Cereal Grain Movement
Authors: Fried Travis , Munnich Lee , Horan Thomas , Hilton Brian
Published: May 2018

In Minnesota, technological and economic shifts in the grain supply chain have altered the way grain producers and sellers navigate their local freight network. In particular, many producers have been increasing their personal trucking capacity and taking longer trips to intermodal and domestic market options. This logistical reshaping of local grain supply chains pressure transportation officials to reconsider the consequences for road infrastructure and congested freight corridors. Studies are discussing the potential of disaggregated commodity flow survey (CFS) data as a critical tool in understanding small-scale freight movement and informing infrastructural investment decisions. Utilizing ArcGIS’s Network Analyst and Hot spot tools to analyze inter-county grain trucking, our study effectively differentiates highly active freight corridors. The model is used to further inform an ongoing infrastructure development project in the Twin Cities metro area by contextualizing road usage within the economic framework of the grain supply chain. However, this study finds CFS data alone fails to account for shifting supply chain conditions, and their consequent impact on the road network. Employing United States Department of Agriculture crop production and cropland data, this study additionally builds an original, computational model that simulates corn producer shipment reaction to market price competition within two key grain-producing counties. Results visualize how producers, during spot months, may be incentivized to haul longer distances to more competitive markets—especially emerging biofuel industries. This lesson proves crucial for state and local transportation officials who wish to identify freight infrastructure development opportunities that invigorate and accommodate growth in Minnesota’s expanding agricultural industry cluster.
Return-to-Play and Performance Outcomes of Professional Athletes in North America After Hip Arthroscopy From 1999 to 2016
Authors: Schallmo Michael S. , Fitzpatrick Thomas H. , Yancey Hunter B. , Marquez-Lara Alejandro , Luo T. David , Stubbs Allston J.
Published: May 2018

Background:

The effect of hip arthroscopy on athletic performance compared with preinjury levels for professional athletes in different sports remains unknown. In addition, while return rates have been reported for professional baseball, football, and hockey players, return rates have not been reported for professional basketball players.

Hypothesis:

Professional athletes in 4 major North American sports would be able to return to their sport and preoperative level of performance at a high rate after arthroscopic hip surgery.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), National Football League (NFL), and National Hockey League (NHL) athletes who underwent hip arthroscopy were identified through a previously reported protocol based on public sources. Successful return to play (RTP) was defined as returning for at least 1 professional regular season game after surgery. Performance scores were calculated by use of previously established scoring systems. Each player served as his own control, with the season prior to surgery defined as baseline. To make comparisons across sports, the authors adjusted for expected season and career length differences between sports and calculated percentage changes in performance.

Results:

The authors identified 227 procedures performed on 180 professional athletes between 1999 and 2016. Successful RTP was achieved in 84.6% (192/227) of the procedures. Compared with all other athletes, NBA athletes returned at a similar rate (85.7%, P ≥ .999). NFL offensive linemen returned at a significantly lower rate than all other athletes (61.1%, P = .010). NHL athletes returned at a significantly higher rate than all other athletes (91.8%, P = .048) and demonstrated significantly decreased performance during postoperative season 1 compared with baseline (–35.1%, P = .002). Lead leg surgery for MLB athletes (batting stance for hitters, pitching stance for pitchers) resulted in a 12.7% reduction in hitter performance score ( P = .041), a 1.3% reduction in pitcher fastball velocity ( P = .004), and a 60.7% reduction in pitch count ( P = .007) one season after surgery compared with baseline. Players in nearly every sport demonstrated significant reductions in game participation after surgery.

Conclusion:

This study supports the hypothesis that hip arthroscopy in professional athletes is associated with excellent rates of return at the professional level. However, postoperative performance outcomes varied based on sport and position.
The effect of oil prices on the media agenda: A model of agenda building
Authors: Alkazemi Mariam F. , Wanta Wayne
Published: May 2018

A path analysis tested an agenda-building model in which three real-world indicators—price of crude oil, U.S. production and U.S. consumption of oil—would lead to discussions of oil in Congress and media coverage of oil. The model showed the level of U.S. oil production produced the strongest path coefficients. Congress and the news media formed a reciprocal relationship. The model worked better when oil was framed as an economic issue than as an environmental issue.
Framing of same-sex marriage over 17 years in two newspapers is linked to ideology especially in election years
Authors: Lasorsa Dominic L. , Suk Jiyoun , Fadnis Deepa
Published: May 2018

Over 17 years, the New York Post and New York Times framed same-sex marriage primarily in terms of equality or morality. In 1998-2003, morality framing was more prevalent, especially in the Post. In 2004-2009, morality framing declined in the Post and increased in the Times. In 2010-2014, equality framing increased in both papers. Morality framing increased in election years. Generally, the Post morality framed more than the Times, especially on its opinion pages, and especially during elections.
Mapping Philanthropic Foundations’ Characteristics: Towards an International Integrative Framework of Foundation Types
Authors: Jung Tobias , Harrow Jenny , Leat Diana
Published: May 2018

As philanthropic foundations take on increasingly prominent sociopolitical roles, the need for stronger conceptualizations of foundations as an organizational form is articulated widely across academic, policy, and practice contexts. Building on institutional research’s tradition of categorizing, classifying and typologizing organizational forms, our article critically explores the different ways in which foundations have been cast and differentiated in international academic and practice literatures. Examining and integrating these, we propose an integrative framework of foundation types. Incorporating 13 categories—three contextual, five organizational, and five strategic ones—the framework allows for clarifying distinctions and identifying commonalities between different foundation forms, offering a basis for developing more reflective and differentiated research and practice knowledge.
Stiffness analysis of corrugated flexure beam using stiffness matrix method
Authors: Wang Nianfeng , Zhang Zhiyuan , Zhang Xianmin
Published: May 2018

Precision positioning techniques present a significant opportunity to support the instrumentation development for state-of-the-art micro-positioning research. The requirement of large stroke and high resolution of the mechanism without a need for amplifier mechanisms is universally recognized. Corrugated flexure beam can have some potential if designed right because of its large flexibility obtained from longer overall length on the same span. This paper presents stiffness analysis of corrugated flexure beam using stiffness or compliance matrix method. Based on Euler–Bernoulli beam theory and Mohr’s integral method, the deformation analyses of straight segment and semi-circle segment are presented. And the stiffness matrix of corrugated flexure unit is then obtained via transformation matrix. By combining the stiffness matrix of every single corrugated flexure unit, the stiffness matrix of corrugated flexure beam is delivered, which reflects the relationship between the load and displacement. The analytical models are verified by taking advantage of the finite element method, which shows that all the results can be of considerable use in the design of corrugated flexure beam.
Preliminary results of the first cervical cancer screening programme in the North Eastern region of Romania
Authors: Păvăleanu Ioana , Gafiţanu Dumitru , Ioanid Nicolae , Grigore Mihaela
Published: May 2018

Objective

Cervical cancer represents a major health problem in Romania. A national population-based cervical cancer screening programme was launched in 2012. The aims of the study were to assess the participation rate and to estimate the prevalence of epithelial cell abnormalities in the first four years of the programme in North Eastern Romania.

Methods

The participation rate, representing the proportion of eligible women screened in the programme, was evaluated for 2012–2016. The prevalence of cytological abnormalities was estimated by age group and calendar year.

Results

Of 107,968 Pap smears taken, 312 were unsatisfactory (0.3%). The number of smears decreased by year. The participation rate over the four years was 16.9%. Of the 107,656 satisfactory smears, 6.5% were positive for squamous and/or glandular lesion, among which 0.5% contained high-grade squamous intraepithelial or worse lesions.

Conclusion

The participation rate in the first four years of the programme was low. The effectiveness of the screening programme should be improved by attendance monitoring of the target population, and follow-up of screen-positive women. Measures should be taken to raise coverage and assure quality at all steps of the screening chain. The data collected should include all screening tests from both opportunistic and organized settings.