bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thyroid Autoimmunity and Autoimmunity in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Linked to Disease Severity, Therapeutic Response, and Time to Remission in Patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria
Authors: Chanprapaph Kumutnart , Iamsumang Wimolsiri , Wattanakrai Penpun , Vachiramon Vasanop
Published: November 2018

Background. Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is autoimmune in nature and associated with thyroid autoimmunity (TA), but evidence on autoimmunity in relation to CSU progression and prognosis is limited. We evaluated whether TA and autoimmunity in CSU are correlated with disease severity, therapeutic response, and time to remission and establish an association between CSU characteristics linked to thyroid autoantibody. Methods. Medical records of patients diagnosed with urticaria attending outpatient dermatology clinic at a university-based hospital from 2013 to 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on the clinical characteristics, laboratory investigations particularly thyroid antibody titers, autologous serum skin test (ASST) and autologous plasma skin test (APST) results and their link to disease severity, treatments, and time to remission of CSU patients were analyzed. Results. Of 1,096 patients with urticaria, 60.2% had CSU. Three-hundred patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria for CSU with complete thyroid antibody testing. Positive TA was significantly associated with female gender and age > 35 years (p = 0.008). Antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO)-positive patients suffered from CSU longer than 12 and 18 months compared to anti-TPO-negative patients (100.0% vs. 82.6%, p = 0.042, and 100.0% vs. 75.9% p = 0.020, respectively). The presence of urticarial attacks > 4 days/week was significantly seen in ASST and APST-positive patients compared to those without (84.6% vs. 61.3%, p = 0.011, and 85.3% vs. 61.8%, p = 0.006, respectively). Positive APST patients were more difficult to treat than those with negative results (61.2% vs. 37.8%, p = 0.017). Conclusions. Antithyroid peroxidase is a predictor of time to remission, while autologous skin testing is linked to disease severity (ASST and APST) and therapeutic response (APST) in CSU patients.
Effectiveness and Safety of Bronchial Thermoplasty in Severe Asthma in Clinical Practice in Spain
Authors: Puente-Maestu Luis , Llanos Flores Milagros , Benedetti Paola , Frías Benzant Ingrid , Oliva Ramos Alicia , García de Pedro Julia , Sanz Sanz Pilar , García-López Javier
Published: November 2018

Background: Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) is a minimally invasive procedure consisting of application of thermal energy into the airways to produce ablation of the hypertrophic smooth muscle. It was approved for use in moderate-severe asthma in Spain in 2010. Objectives: The aims of the present study are to analyze the effectiveness and the safety of BT in clinical practice in our center. Methods: Participants had a confirmed diagnosis of severe asthma and poor control without therapeutic alternative. Effectiveness was measured by comparing exacerbations, admissions rates, asthma control, and medication 1 year prior and 1 year after BT was completed. All complications appearing during the procedure and in the first year were recorded. Results: Patients had a mean age of 51 (SD 8) years and were predominantly female (17/23). The average number of activations per patient was 147 (16). The number of severe exacerbations was reduced by 75% (p < 0.001). A 38% reduction in admissions per year was also observed (p = 0.03). The Asthma Control Test improved by 7.1 (3.7) points (p = 0.018). Before BT, the dose of inhaled corticosteroids was 1,621 (1,015) µg of budesonide-equivalent and the dose of oral corticosteroids was 15 (13) mg of prednisone-equivalent. There was a reduction in 430 (731) µg of budesonide-equivalent (p = 0.02) and 4 (11) mg of prednisone (p = 0.094). No changes in lung function were observed. Complications were related mostly to exacerbation of asthma in the days following the procedure. Conclusions: BT is effective and safe for severe uncontrolled bronchial asthma in real clinical practice.
Increased Risk for Cardiovascular Events in Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Chinnadurai Rajkumar , Chrysochou Constantina , Kalra Philip A.
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is recognised to be a strong risk factor for causing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), independent of the presence of diabetes mellitus. The association of NAFLD with outcomes in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) has been variably reported. This study aimed to investigate the association of NAFLD with cardiovascular, renal outcomes and mortality in patients with advanced DKD (CKD 3–5, not on dialysis). Methods: This observational study was carried out on 192 patients with DKD within a cohort of 2,974 non-dialysis CKD patients, who had an ultrasound (US) of their liver done between January 2000 and end of December 2014. From these 192 patients, 149 patients (NAFLD 48 and normal US 101) were included for comparative analysis, as they had complete datasets. Patient demographics, comorbidities and blood results were collected at study baseline. Follow-up data on non-fatal cardiovascular events (NFCVE), mortality and serial estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was gathered until study end point. Cox-regression analysis was used to study the association of NAFLD with NFCVE and mortality, and linear regression analysis was used for the estimation of renal progression. Results: Median follow-up time was 69 months, similar in both groups (p = 0.09). Median eGFR was 31.6 mL/min/1.73 m2, with a median urine protein creatinine ratio of 46 g/mol. A total of 20 (41.7%) NFCVE were recorded in the NAFLD group compared to 14 (13.9%) in the normal US group. Multivariable Cox-regression analysis showed NAFLD as an independent risk factor (hazard ratio 2.95; 95% CI 1.31–6.60; p = 0.01) for NFCVE even after including all cardiovascular risks parameters that were significant in the univariable model. There was no significant difference in survival between the 2 groups over the follow-up period (log-rank test, p = 0.76). The overall rate of decline in eGFR was 3.46 mL/min/1.73 m2/year and this was not observed to be different between the groups (p = 0.65). Conclusion: In our cohort of patients with advanced DKD, NAFLD showed a strong independent association with cardiovascular outcomes. Further prospective studies are warranted to strengthen these associations and plan a strategy for screening NAFLD in this high-risk group.
Geriatric Assessment in Elderly Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease
Authors: Goto Namiko A. , van Loon Ismay N. , Morpey Moira I. , Verhaar Marianne C. , Willems Hanna C. , Emmelot-Vonk Mariëlle H. , Bots Michiel L. , Boereboom Franciscus T.J. , Hamaker Marije E.
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Decision-making in elderly patients considering dialysis is highly complex. With the increasing number of elderly with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), it may be important to assess geriatric impairments in this population. The aim of the Geriatric assessment in OLder patients starting Dialysis (GOLD) study was to assess the prevalence of geriatric impairments and frailty in the elderly ESKD population by means of a geriatric assessment (GA), which is a comprehensive tool for overall health assessment. Methods: This study included 285 patients ≥65 years: 196 patients at the time of dialysis initiation and 89 patients who chose maximal conservative management (MCM). The GA assessed cognition, mood, nutritional status, (instrumental) activities of daily living (ADL), mobility, comorbidity burden, quality of life and overall frailty. Results: The mean age of the participants was 78 years and 36% were women. Of the incident dialysis patients, 77% started haemodialysis and 23% started peritoneal dialysis. Geriatric impairments were highly prevalent in both dialysis and MCM patients. Most frequently impaired geriatric domains in the dialysis group were functional performance (ADL 29%, instrumental ADL (iADL) 79%), cognition (67%) and comorbidity (41%). According to the GA, 77% in the dialysis group and 88% in the MCM group had 2 or more geriatric impairments. In the MCM group, functional impairment (ADL 45%, iADL 85%) was highly prevalent. Conclusions: Geriatric impairments are highly prevalent in the elderly ESKD population. Since impairments can be missed when not searched for in regular (pre)dialysis care, the first step of improving nephrologic care is awareness of the extensiveness of geriatric impairment.
Transcriptome Profile Analysis Reveals an Estrogen Induced LncRNA Associated with Lipid Metabolism and Carcass Traits in Chickens (Gallus Gallus)
Authors: Li Hong , Gu Zhenzhen , Yang Liyu , Tian Yadong , Kang Xiangtao , Liu Xiaojun 
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims: Accumulating evidences have demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) play important roles in hepatic lipid metabolism in mammals. However, no systematic screening of the potential lncRNAs in the livers of laying hens has been performed, and few studies have been reported concerning the effects of the lncRNAs on lipid metabolism in the livers of chickens during egg-laying period. The purpose of this study was to compare the difference in lncRNA expression in the livers of pre-laying and peak-laying hens at the age of 20 and 30 weeks old by transcriptome sequencing and to investigate the interaction networks among lncRNAs, mRNAs and miRNAs. Moreover, the regulatory mechanism and biological function of lncLTR, a significantly differentially expressed lncRNA in the liver between pre- and peak-laying hens, was explored in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Bioinformatics analyses were conducted to identify the differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs between the two groups of hens. The target genes of the DE lncRNA were predicated for further functional enrichment. An integrated analysis was performed among the DE lncRNA datasets, DE mRNAs and DE miRNA datasets obtained from the same samples to predict the interaction relationship. In addition, in vivo and in vitro trials were carried out to determine the expression regulation of lncLTR, and polymorphism association analysis was conducted to detect the biological role of ncLTR. Results: A total of 124 DE lncRNAs with a P-value ≤ 0.05 were identified. Among them, 44 lncRNAs including 30 known and 14 novel lncRNAs were significant differentially expressed (SDE) with FDR ≤ 0.05. Thirty-two lncRNAs were upregulated and 12 were downregulated in peak-laying group compared with pre-laying group. The functional enrichment results revealed that target genes of some lncRNAs are involved in the lipid metabolism process. Integrated analysis suggested that some of the genes involved in lipid metabolism might be regulated by both the lncRNA and the miRNA. In addition, an upregulated lncRNA, designated lncLTR, was demonstrated to be induced by estrogen via ERβ signaling. The c242. G>A SNP in lncLTR was significantly associated with chicken carcass weight, evisceration weight, semi-evisceration weight, head weight, double-wing weight, claw weight traits, and blood biochemical index, especially for the blood triglyceride content. Conclusion: A series of lncRNAs associated with lipid metabolism in the livers of chickens were identified by transcriptome sequencing and functional analysis, providing a valuable data resource for further studies on chicken hepatic metabolism activities. LncLTR was regulated by estrogen via ERβ signaling and associated with chicken carcass trait and blood triglyceride content.
Неінвазивні методи діагностики в плануванні реконструктивних втручань на кінцівках складними комплексами тканин
Authors: Ponomarenko O. V. , Grigoryeva M. Yu.
Published: November 2018

Мета роботи: дослідити ефективність методу ультразвукового дуплексного сканування в плануванні реконструктивних втручань при дефектах покривних тканин кінцівок складними комплексами тканин.

Матеріали і методи. У роботі проаналізовано дані про 50 хворих, яким у передопераційному періоді з метою вибору об’єму оперативного втручання виконували ультразвукове дуплексне сканування (УЗДС). До задач дослідження гемодинаміки кінцівки входило підтвердження прохідності судин та ступінь їх функціонування. Окрім того, УЗДС використовували для дослідження реґіонарної гемодинаміки у зоні ранового дефекту та у донорській ділянці майбутнього складного клаптя.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. В  I групі (n = 15), хворим із надвеликою (понад 1 % площі) рановою поверхнею й пошкодженням м’яких тканин нижче глибокої фасції після детальної передопераційної підготовки та дослідження гемодинаміки ділянки пошкодження виконано 25 (20,2 %) відновних  операцій ДПТ. II група (n = 13)  складалася з постраждалих із ДПТ, які виникли разом або внаслідок  пошкодження кістково – суглобового апарату – 42 (33,9 %) втручань.  III група (n = 22), хворих із поєднаною чи множинною травмою, що супроводжувалася пошкодженням магістральних судин, нервів, частковим або повним відокремленням кінцівки.  В цій групі виконано 57 (45,9 %) реконструкцій ДПТ.
Поєднані ушкодження нервових та сухожилково-м’язових структур на передпліччі, що супроводжуються їх значними дефектами: роль вимушеної транспозиції м’язів у відновленні основних функцій кисті
Authors: Tretyak I. B. , Gatskiy A. A. , Kovalenko I. V. , Tretyakova A. I.
Published: November 2018

Мета роботи: оцінити ефективність “вимушених” транспозицій при ушкодженнях сухожилково-м’язових та нервових структур на відновлення основних захватів кисті.

Матеріали і методи. Проведено ретроспективний аналіз результатів реконструктивних втручань у 9 пацієнтів (6 чоловіків та 3 жінки) віком від 9 до 70 року (середній вік 36,4 року) із наслідками проксимальних поєднаних ушкоджень довгих нервів та сухожилково-м’язового апарату передньої поверхні передпліччя. Травма сухожилково-м’язового апарату була поєднана із ушкодженням в 4 випадках серединного нерва, в 4 випадках серединного та ліктьового нервів, в одному випадку – серединного нерва та поверхневої гілки променевого нерва. Термін, в який проводились реконструктивні втручання, складав у середньому 5 місяців (від 2 до 11 місяців) після травми. У 6 пацієнтів хірургічна реконструкція нервів полягала у виконанні автологічної пластики, у 2 пацієнтів – невролізу, в одного пацієнта – шва нерва. У 5 випадках “вимушена” транспозиція була виконана з метою відновлення незалежної функції довгого згинача 1 пальця, у 6 випадках – незалежної функції глибоких згиначів 2–3 пальців. Відновлення неврологічних функцій оцінювали за MRC Scale, класифікацією за Seddon, відновленням 4 захватів кисті, власною оцінкою відновлених функцій за Brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. У всіх 4 пацієнтів із ушкодженням лише серединного нерва відновлення чутливості становило в середньому 3,75 за Seddon. У 4 пацієнтів із ушкодженням серединного та ліктьового нервів відновлення чутливості становило в середньому 3 та 2 за Seddon відповідно. Неефективне відновлення протиставлення першого пальця в 2 пацієнтів скореговано транспозицією за Bunnel. У 4 пацієнтів із ушкодженням серединного та ліктьового нервів ми спостерігали незадовільне відновлення “внутрішніх” м’язів кисті. У 5 пацієнтів «вимушені» транспозиції відновили незалежну функцію довгого згинача 1 пальця, у 6 пацієнтів – незалежну функцію глибоких згиначів 2–3 пальців. У 9 пацієнтів комплексна хірургічна реконструкція відновила функцію поперечного долонного, діагонального долонного та щипкового захватів. У 4 пацієнтів (44 %) не досягнуто відновлення ключового захвату, у зв’язку із незадовільним відновленням “внутрішніх” м’язів кисті (ліктьовий нерв). Середня власна оцінка функції кисті за MBHQ відповідала задовільній у 9 пацієнтів – 70,12 балів в середньому (від 43,75 до 89,6).
Surgical Rehabilitation of Patients with Atypical Anatomical and Functional States after Radical Organ-Preserving Operations for Non-Tumour Colon Diseases
Authors: Melnyk V. M. , Poida O. I. , Kadir Abdulrakhman Abdul
Published: November 2018

The aim of the work: to demonstrate modern possibilities and ways of providing rehabilitation of patients after radical surgical treatment of non-tumour colon diseases with available non-typical anatomical and functional states.

Materials and Methods. The system of surgical rehabilitation measures was developed, which was used in 32 patients with available atypical anatomical and functional states after radical organ-preserving operations in non-tumour colon diseases. They are aimed at implementing sufficiently radical, reconstruction and restoration operations, forecasting and preventing postoperative complications, improving functional results, reducing the incidence and severity of severe forms of diarrhea and postcolectomy syndromes.

Results and Discussion. In 2 (6.3 %) patients there were complications due to the implementation of reconstruction and restoration stage of surgical intervention. They led to the necessity of extirpation of the anal canal fistula, removal of ileoendoanal anastomosis, and the formation of a lifelong ileostomy. In 30 (93.7 %) patients, favourable functional results were obtained, and a significant level of surgical and social work rehabilitation was achieved. A significant level of rehabilitation of operated patients was achieved through the implementation of sufficiently radical and developed reconstruction and restoration operations that prevented the relapse of the disease, the emergence of pathological conditions caused by the removal of the large intestine; prognostication and purposeful prevention of severe postoperative complications, stage monitoring of the condition of operated patients.

Conclusions. 1. Surgical rehabilitation of patients operated for serious non-tumour colon diseases is a complex of organizational and therapeutic and prophylactic means aimed at returning to a society of a citizen sufficiently adapted to the conditions of modern society.

Surgical rehabilitation of patients with atypical anatomical and functional states in the radical surgical treatment of non-tumour colon diseases requires further improvement of surgical treatment methods and lifelong monitoring of the condition of operated patients.

3. Performing sufficiently radical surgical operations, developing new reconstruction and rehabilitation operations for existing non-typical anatomical and functional states contributed to the provision of favourable functional results, a significant level of surgical and social and labour rehabilitation in 93.7% of patients.
Морфометрична характеристика структурної перебудови м′язової оболонки дванадцятипалої кишки при пострезекційній портальній гіпертензії
Authors: Shulgai A. H. , Tatarchuk L. V. , Hnatjuk M. S.
Published: November 2018

Мета роботи: морфометричними методами вивчити особливості  структурної перебудови м′язової оболонки дванадцятипалої  кишки при пострезекційній портальній гіпертензії.

Матеріали і методи. Комплексом морфологічних методів досліджено дванадцятипалу кишку 45 статевозрілих білих щурів-самців, які були розділені на 3-и групи. Перша група нараховувала 15 інтактних тварин, 2-а – 15 щурів, у яких було видалено  31,5 % паренхіми печінки,  3-я – 15 тварин після резекції 58, 1 % паренхіми печінки. Евтаназію щурів здійснювали кровопусканням в умовах тіопенталового наркозу через один місяць від початку експерименту. Із дванадцятипалої кишки виготовляли гістологічні мікропрепарати. Вимірювали товщини колового та поздовжнього шарів м′язової  оболонки, діаметри гладких міоцитів та їх ядер, ядерно-цитоплазматичні відношення у цих клітинах, стромально-міоцитарні відношення, відносні об′єми пошкоджених міоцитів.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Встановлено, що через місяць після резекції 31,5 % паренхіми печінки досліджувані морфометричні показники змінювалися незначно. Видалення 58,1 % паренхіми печінки призводило до розвитку пострезекційної портальної гіпертензії. Виражено зміненими при цьому виявилися морфометричні параметри структур колового та поздовжнього шарів м’язової оболонки дванадцятипалої кишки.  Товщина колового шару м’язової оболонки через місяць після резекції 58,1 % паренхіми печінки статистично достовірно зменшилася на 5,0 %, діаметр міоцитів – на 8,7 %, ядерно-цитоплазматичні відношення у них зросли на 42,8 %, cтромально-міоцитарні відношення –на 21 %, відносний об’єм пошкоджених міоцитів – у 15,9 раза. Кількісні морфологічні показники структур поздовжнього шару м’язової оболонки дванадцятипалої кишки через місяць після резекції 58,1 % паренхіми печінки змінювалися аналогічно, але ступінь їх вираження був меншим порівняно із структурами колового шару. Так, діаметр міоцитів у даних експериментальних умовах виявився зменшеним всього на 0,92 %, діаметр ядер зріс на 7,1 % (р<0,05), ядерно-цитоплазматичні відношення – на  16,8 % (р<0,001), стромально-міоцитарні відношення – на 14,7 %, відносний об’єм пошкоджених міоцитів – у 9,3 раза. Результати проведеного дослідження  стверджують, що видалення великих об’ємів паренхіми печінки призводить  до пострезеційної портальної гіпертензії та  вираженої морфологічної перебудови (ремоделювання) структур колового та поздовжнього шарів м’язової оболонки дванадцятипалої кишки, яке характеризується диспропорційними нерівномірними змінами морфометричних параметрів гладких міоцитів, їх ядер, порушеннями ядерно-цитолазматичних відношень у цих клітинах, атрофією, зростанням стромальних структур та відносних об’ємів пошкоджених міоцитів у м′язовій оболонці, що може ускладнюватися дисфункцією ушкодженого органа.
Лікування бойової травми в цивільного населення
Authors: Vrublevskyi O.
Published: November 2018

Дана праця спирається на особистий досвід автора під час гуманітарних місій та є спробою узагальнення результатів понад 1800 операцій,  виконаних за останні три роки в “гарячих точках” світу.
Динаміка показників гепатодепресивного синдрому у хворих з механічною жовтяницею пухлинного ґенезу після ендоскопічної і лапароскопічної паліативної декомпресії загальної жовчної протоки
Authors: Nychitaylo M. Y. , Kondratiuk A. P. , Khilko Yu. A. , Ogorodnyk P. V. , Deinychenko A. G. , Kondratiuk V. A. , Yermak N. A. , Yusupov T. A.
Published: November 2018

Мета роботи з’ясувати динаміку показників гепатодепресивного синдрому у хворих із механічною жовтяницею пухлинного генезу після ендоскопічної і лапароскопічної паліативної декомпресії загальної жовчної протоки.

Матеріали і методи. Під спостереженням в період з 2011 до 2017 р. перебували 48 пацієнтів, в яких внаслідок комплексного обстеження виявили інкурабельні пухлини на тлі вираженої механічної жовтяниці. Усім хворим виконано паліативну декомпресію загальної жовчної протоки: 30 пацієнтів – із застосуванням ендоскопічних методів; 18 пацієнтів – із використанням лапароскопічної гепатикоєюностомії. Кожну підгрупу рандомізували за віком, статтю, тривалістю жовтяничного періоду та основними біохімічними показниками, визначеними до операції. Пацієнти перебували під спостереженням протягом 6 міс. після декомпресії. До операції, через 1, 7 і 14 діб, а також 3 і 6 міс. у пацієнтів визначали маркери гепатодепресивного синдрому: протромбіновий час, вміст загального білка й альбумінів у сироватці крові за загальновідомими методами.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Лапароскопічна декомпресія загальної жовчної протоки шляхом формування гепатикоєюноанастомозу порівняно з ендоскопічними методами супроводжується швидшим відновленням функціонального стану печінки, що проявляється сталим зниженням протромбінового часу індексу INR і збільшенням вмісту в сироватці крові загального білка та альбумінів через 3–6 міс. після декомпресії. На тлі ендоскопічної декомпресії в цей період протромбіновий час і індекс INR статистично вірогідно більші, вміст у сироватці крові загального білка і альбумінів – менший, порівняно з лапароскопічною декомпресією. Через 3-6 міс. після втручання за умов ендоскопічної декомпресії показники гепатодепресивного синдрому суттєво погіршуються, що пов’язано з розвитком у 30 % пацієнтів ускладнень.
A variação linguística em traduções de “alta literatura” e de best-sellers de ficção popular
Authors: Amorim Lauro Maia
Published: November 2018

Embora o estudo da variação linguística em traduções literárias tenha estimulado um debate notável nos Estudos da Tradução nas últimas décadas, pouca reflexão tem sido desenvolvida em torno da (in)existência de uma relação entre o emprego de “marcas de oralidade” e traduções de obras da chamada “alta literatura” e de best-sellers de ficção. Seria possível observar algum contraste relevante, quanto às “marcas de oralidade”, entre obras de ficção às quais se atribuem, em princípio, objetivos mercadológicos distintos? Para responder a essa questão, realizou-se uma pesquisa comparativa com o objetivo de quantificar as ocorrências de marcas de oralidade, tais como as delineadas por Britto (2012), em uma tradução associada à “alta literatura” (Indignação, de Philip Roth), e em outra caracterizada como um típico best-seller de entretenimento (O Manipulador, de John Grisham).
Staurogyne nitida, a new combination among Brazilian Acanthaceae
Authors: BRAZ DENISE MONTE , DANIEL THOMAS F.
Published: November 2018

Staurogyne carvalhoi is a later heterotypic synonym of Ebermaiera nitida. The new combination Staurogyne nitida, based on the older name, is herewith proposed.
Oxynema aestuarii sp. nov. (Microcoleaceae) isolated from an Indian mangrove forest
Authors: CHAKRABORTY SANDEEP , MARUTHANAYAGAM VEERABADHRAN , ACHARI ANUSHREE , MAHANSARIA RIDDHI , PRAMANIK ARNAB , JAISANKAR PARASURAMAN , MUKHERJEE JOYDEEP
Published: November 2018

Taxonomic characterization by a polyphasic approach was carried out on two cyanobacteria, AP17 and AP24 isolated from soil biofilms of two separate islands, Lothian and Sagar respectively, of the Indian Sundarbans. The strains were studied morphologically by light microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Growth responses to various salinities were recorded. Molecular data included sequencing and phylogenetic study of the 16S rRNA gene as well as analysis of the 14 regions of the 16S-23S ITS regions. Morphologically the strains were found to be non-heterocytous, having attenuated trichomes with a narrow, bent terminal cell without any crosswalls. Strains under investigation shared 99–100% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with Oxynema thaianum CCALA960, the type species of the novel Oxynema genus, recently separated from the Phormidium-Group I genus. However, cross walls in the apical portion of AP17 and AP24 were totally absent while the same was present in CCALA960. Additionally, optimal growth of AP17 and AP24 was recorded in 5–8% salinity and salinity above 14% inhibited growth of both strains, which were isolated from an intertidal environment; whereas O. thaianum CCALA960 which was found in a hypersaline environment could grow at 40% salinity. Insertion of 9 nucleotides in the D2 with spacer region, insertion of 2 nucleotides in the pre Box B spacer region, deletion of 2 nucleotides in the post Box B spacer region, deletion of 8 nucleotides in the D4 region, deletion of 8 nucleotides in V3 region and insertion of 2 nucleotides in the D5 region of the ITS sequences of AP17 and AP24 were observed in comparison to the analogous regions of CCALA960. Structural details of Box B helices of AP17 and AP24 revealed that although their lengths were identical with the reference, their sequences were completely different from CCALA960. Four nucleotide substitutions were observed in different positions in the Box B helix of O. thaianum CCALA960. Secondary structures of the V3 regions of AP17 and AP24 (containing 51 nucleotides) showed a small terminal bulge and a bigger bilateral bulge while the analogous structure of O. thaianum CCALA 960 (comprising of 59 nucleotides) showed one additional bilateral bulge in comparison to AP17 and AP24. Therefore, based on morphological, ecological and molecular differences in comparison to O. thaianum CCALA960, isolates AP17 and AP24 should be considered as a second novel species in the Oxynema genus, for which the name Oxynema aestuarii sp. nov. is proposed.
A new species of Tricholosporum (Agaricales, Tricholomataceae) from Liaoning Province of China
Authors: XU JIZE , ZHANG CHUNLAN , KASUYA TAIGA , MOODLEY ODESHNEE , LIU BAO , GONG LEI , LI YU
Published: November 2018

Tricholosporum haitangshanum sp. nov. is described as a new species from China, based on morphological and molecular data. It is morphologically characterized by a yellowish ochre pileus, cruciate basidiospores and ampullaceous cystidia. Phylogenetic analyses based on the nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region supports that it belongs to Tricholosporum. Comparing it with phenotypically similar and molecular phylogenetically allied taxa concluded that it is a new species in Tricholosporum.
Morphology, anatomy and palynology study on Turkish endemic species Saponaria karapinarensis (Caryophyllaceae)
Authors: ULUKUŞ DENİZ
Published: November 2018

Saponaria karapinarensis (Caryophyllaceae), an endemic species from Turkey, was studied from taxonomic point of view. Morphological, anatomical, and palynological characteristics of the species were examined. Morphology of stem, calyx, petals, and capsule are useful to distinguish the species. Anatomical features, such as the number of cortex layers and sclerenchymatic cell layers in stem, are of taxonomical importance. SEM Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies on the pollen grains have revealed that they are spheroideae and their exine ornamentation is granulatae, spinulate microechinatae- microperforatae. Seed micromorphological features were also given.
Two new and potentially highly threatened Megophrys Horned frogs (Amphibia: Megophryidae) from Indochina’s highest mountains
Authors: TAPLEY BENJAMIN , CUTAJAR TIMOTHY , MAHONY STEPHEN , NGUYEN CHUNG THANH , DAU VINH QUANG , LUONG ANH MAI , LE DZUNG TRUNG , NGUYEN TAO THIEN , NGUYEN TRUONG QUANG , PORTWAY CHRISTOPHER , LUONG HAO VAN , ROWLEY JODI J. L.
Published: November 2018

Megophrys are a group of morphologically conserved, primarily forest-dependent frogs known to harbour cryptic species diversity. In this study, we examined populations of small-sized Megophrys from mid- and high elevation locations in the Hoang Lien Range, northern Vietnam. On the basis of morphological, molecular and bioacoustic data, individuals of these populations differed from all species of Megophrys known from mainland Southeast Asia north of the Isthmus of Kra and from neighbouring provinces in China. Further, the newly collected specimens formed two distinct species-level groups. We herein describe two new species, Megophrys fansipanensis sp. nov. and Megophrys hoanglienensis sp. nov. Both new species are range restricted and likely to be highly threatened by habitat degradation. These discoveries highlight the importance of the Hoang Lien Range for Vietnam’s amphibian diversity.
New species of the genus Amphichroum Kraatz, 1857 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Omaliinae: Anthophagini) from China
Authors: SHAVRIN ALEXEY V. , SMETANA ALEŠ
Published: November 2018

Eleven new species of the genus Amphichroum Kraatz, 1857 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Omaliinae: Anthophagini) from China are described and illustrated: A. angustilobatum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Yunnan: Meili Xue Shan), A. assingi Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Yunnan: Hengduan Mountains), A. longilobatum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Sichuan: Erlang Shan), A. maculosum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Yunnan: Diancang Shan), A. propinquum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Sichuan: Gongga Shan), A. schuelkei Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Yunnan: Gaoligong Shan), A. rotundatum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. and A. squamosum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Sichuan: Daxue Shan, Gongga Shan), A. subaequale Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Shaanxi: Qing Ling Shan), A. subelongatum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Sichuan: Erlang Shan, Daxue Shan), and A.tibetanum Shavrin & Smetana, sp.n. (Tibet: Chola Mountains). A key to species known from China and distributional maps of all species are provided.
Feeling Everyday IR: Embodied, affective, militarising movement as choreography of war
Authors: Åhäll Linda
Published: November 2018

This article explores affective, embodied encounters between military and civilian bodies in the everyday as choreography of war. It argues that by paying attention to the intersecting political sphere of bodies, affect and movement – through the metaphor of ‘dance’ – we are not only able to understand how security operates as a logic reproducing the militarisation of the everyday, but also able to identify a representational gap, an aesthetic politics, potentially useful for resistance to such practices normalising war in the everyday. It draws on two British examples of where military moves disrupt civilian spaces in the everyday: an arts project commemorating the Battle of the Somme, and a football game taking place during Remembrance week. Through embodied choreographies of war in the everyday, dance is used as a metaphor to understand militarisation as an example of feeling Everyday IR. Thus, dance is useful to ‘see’ the politics of Everyday IR, but also to understand, to feel and possibly to resist the politics of normalisation of war in the everyday. This is one example of how feeling Everyday IR offers alternative openings into political puzzles of security logics informing war as practice.
Purinergic Signaling Modulates Survival/Proliferation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang S. , Ye D. , Ma L. , Ren Y. , Dirksen R.T. , Liu X.
Published: November 2018

Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) reside in postnatal dental pulp and exhibit the potential to differentiate into odontoblasts as well as neurons. However, the intercellular signaling niches necessary for hDPSC survival and self-renewal remain largely unknown. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the existence of intercellular purinergic signaling in hDPSCs and to assess the impact of purinergic signaling on hDPSC survival and proliferation. hDPSCs were isolated from extracted third molars and cultured in minimum essential medium. To demonstrate responsiveness to ATP application and inhibitions by purinergic receptor antagonists, whole cell patch-clamp recordings of ATP-induced currents were recorded from cultured hDPSCs. Immunofluorescence and enzymatic histochemistry staining were performed to assess purinergic receptor expression and ectonucleotidase activity in hDPSCs, respectively. To determine the effects of purinergic signaling on hDPSC, purinergic receptor antagonists and an ectonucleotidase inhibitor were applied in culture medium, and hDPSC survival and proliferation were assessed with DAPI staining and Ki67 immunofluorescence staining, respectively. We demonstrated that ATP application induced inward currents in hDPSCs. P2X and P2Y receptors are involved in the generation of ATP-induced inward currents. We also detected expression of NTPDase3 and ectonucleotidase activity in hDPSCs. We further demonstrated that purinergic receptors were tonically activated in hDPSCs and that inhibition of ectonucleotidase activity enhanced ATP-induced inward currents. Furthermore, we found that blocking P2Y and P2X receptors reduced—and inhibition of ecto-ATPase activity enhanced—the survival and proliferation of hDPSCs, while blocking P2X receptors alone affected only hDPSC proliferation. Autocrine/paracrine purinergic signaling is essential for hDPSC survival and proliferation. These results reveal potential targets to manipulate hDPSCs to promote tooth/dental pulp repair and regeneration.
Health and Union Dissolution among Parenting Couples: Differences by Gender and Marital Status
Authors: Percheski Christine , Meyer Jess M.
Published: November 2018

Poor health may destabilize romantic unions by impeding fulfillment of family responsibilities, increasing stress, and causing financial strain. We hypothesized that the associations of health characteristics with union stability for parenting couples vary by the gender of the partner in poor health and the couple’s marital status because of gender and marital status differences in family responsibilities and health-related coping behaviors. Using longitudinal data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (n = 2,997), we examined how three health measures predicted union dissolution for urban married and cohabiting couples with young children. Fathers’ depression at baseline predicted dissolution for all parenting couples, as did either partner developing depression between baseline and the following interview. For married parents, fathers’ health-related work limitations and mothers’ poor self-rated health also predicted dissolution. Associations between health conditions and dissolution differ by gender and marital status, possibly reflecting varying social norms about family responsibilities.
Exposure to the 2014 Gaza War and Support for Militancy: The Role of Emotion Dysregulation
Authors: Zipris Inbal , Pliskin Ruthie , Canetti Daphna , Halperin Eran
Published: November 2018

How do wars shape emotions and attitudes in intractable conflicts? In two studies conducted in the aftermath of the 2014 Gaza War in the Middle East, we tested a new theoretical model wherein the ability to regulate emotions is central in determining the influence of war exposure on emotions (i.e., group-based humiliation) and support for militancy, through posttraumatic stress symptoms (PSS). Results supported our model: (a) higher exposure to the war predicted group-based humiliation in both studies and in Study 2 also greater support for militancy; in both studies, (b) higher exposure predicted more PSS only among participants high in emotion dysregulation, and, for them, (c) higher exposure predicted greater group-based humiliation, through increased levels of PSS. Results from Study 2 suggest that (d) group-based humiliation will ultimately lead to greater support for militancy. The findings’ contribution to the different literatures and their integration is discussed.
Multidimensionality: A Cross-Disciplinary Review and Integration
Authors: Liu Xing , Park Jieun , Hymer Christina , Thatcher Sherry M. B.
Published: November 2018

Individuals are inherently multidimensional, containing bundles of attributes and social relations. As multidimensionality research has evolved independently and in a disconnected fashion, our knowledge of multidimensionality and its outcomes in organizations is fragmented and rarely integrated. By reviewing relevant articles from the intersectionality, faultlines, and multiplexity literatures, we present a comprehensive overview of each literature, as well as discuss their theoretical foundations, measurement, and current state. Thus, we provide a holistic and synthesized perspective of how multidimensionality is experienced in organizations. We further identify a series of research questions to spur future research on multidimensionality.
Quantitative Synthesis of Research Evidence: Multilevel Meta-Analysis
Authors: Moeyaert Mariola
Published: November 2018

Multilevel meta-analysis is an innovative synthesis technique used for the quantitative integration of effect size estimates across participants and across studies. The quantitative summary allows for objective, evidence-based, and informed decisions in research, practice, and policy. Based on previous methodological work, the technique results in powerful, unbiased, and precise effect size estimates. However, its use in practice is limited and its full potential is not yet fully understood. This article aims to bring the multilevel meta-analytic model closer to the applied researcher by introducing the technique at a conceptual level and discussing its full potential and relevance to the field. The procedure of multilevel meta-analysis is illustrated using a recent single-case meta-analytic dataset. Software codes, output tables, interpretations, and graphical displays of effect size estimates are given such that the reader can repeat the analysis independently.
Dynamic Analysis of Large Shell Structures: Complex Damped Spectral Element Method
Authors: Horr A.M. , Schmidt L. C.
Published: November 2018

The purpose of this paper is to present the Complex Damped Spectral Element method (CDSEM) for dynamic analysis of large shell structures. Most shell structures can be analysed and designed by using the conventional finite element (FE) method. However, in order to guarantee stability and accuracy of the solution, the number of elements used to model a structure may be very large indeed; more precisely, accurate results can be obtained only after a substantial computational effort. As a consequence, it appears that for designing a large shell structure it may be more effective to use alternative mathematical modelling techniques. In this respect, attention is paid to an alternative complex spectral approach which works in the frequency domain, and draws its robustness from the speed and switching capabilities of the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). The spectral formulation starts at the same starting point as the conventional finite element formulation. However, it is formulated in the frequency domain. Consequently, spectral analysis concerns the synthesis of waveforms from the superposition of many frequency components. Using a fractional derivative model to describe the damping characteristic of materials, the non-linear damping behaviour of structural material has been modelled. The assembled system of equations is solved in the frequency domain, and is then transformed to the time domain using a FFT. The method is then used to analyse a large cooling tower structure.
FoxP3 and IDO in Canine Melanocytic Tumors
Authors: Porcellato Ilaria , Brachelente Chiara , De Paolis Livia , Menchetti Laura , Silvestri Serenella , Sforna Monica , Vichi Gaia , Iussich Selina , Mechelli Luca
Published: November 2018

Human melanoma is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with poor prognosis and high resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The discovery of immunosuppressive mechanisms in the human melanoma microenvironment led to the use of new prognostic markers and to the development of immunotherapies targeting immune checkpoint molecules. Immunoescape mechanisms in canine melanoma have not yet been investigated, and no such immunotherapy has been tested. The aim of this study was to provide preliminary data on the expression of transcription factor forkhead box protein P3 (FoxP3) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) in primary canine melanocytic tumors and to investigate their prognostic role. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples from 74 canine melanocytic tumors (26 oral melanomas, 23 cutaneous melanomas, and 25 cutaneous melanocytomas) were retrospectively evaluated by immunohistochemistry to explore the expression of FoxP3 and IDO. An increased risk of death due to melanoma was associated with a higher number of FoxP3+ cells per high-power field (FoxP3+/HPF), a higher percentage of CD3+ cells that were also FoxP3+ infiltrating and surrounding the tumor (%FoxP3), and a higher number of IDO+ cells/HPF (IDO+/HPF). A prognostic value for FoxP3 and IDO is suggested by our study, with optimal cutoffs of 14.7 FoxP3+ cells/HPF, 6.1 IDO+ cells/HPF, and 12.5% FoxP3+ cells. Both markers were also associated with tumor type. Multivariable analysis identified IDO+/HPF ( P < .001) as an independent prognostic marker. Even though stratification by diagnosis caused a loss of significance, results from the present study suggest a prognostic role for IDO and FoxP3, possibly related to the establishment of an immunosuppressive microenvironment.
One Time, Many Times
Authors: Rao Rahul
Published: November 2018

This review article surveys recent work on time and temporality in international relations. It begins with an overview of Kimberly Hutchings’s influential history of ideas exploring the relationship between chronos (quantitative experience of time) and kairos (qualitative conceptualisation of time). Building on the architecture of Hutchings’s argument, it surveys more recent scholarship that supplements, extends and complicates her insights in two ways. First, while Hutchings focuses on the way in which theorisations of kairos shift over time, the development of a unified global chronotic imaginary was itself a contested process, frequently interrupted by kairotic considerations. Second, while Hutchings is interested in western conceptualisations of kairos, recent work has shifted the analytical focus to those subject positions marginalised by such kairotic imaginaries.
Leisure and the Production Possibility Frontier: A Two-Step Pedagogy
Authors: Galles Gary M. , Graves Philip E. , Sexton Robert L.
Published: November 2018

The production possibility frontier (PPF) is a workhorse of economics principles texts, providing useful insights. However, its assumption of a given amount of labor can confuse students, who know that their willingness to supply labor is a variable, not given. That is, some will realize that there are actually many potential guns-butter trade-offs, one for each level of leisure chosen. That unexamined issue can undermine student buy-in to the concepts, and with it, the usefulness of the PPF and economic tools related to it and its “fixed amount of resources” assumption, such as the supply curves of microeconomics and the long-run aggregate supply curve of macroeconomics. However, that difficulty can be addressed using a two-step PPF presentation, which considers the simultaneous goods-leisure decision and the guns-butter possibilities consistent with it. It clarifies the analysis, as well as offering several benefits for economic instruction.

JEL Classifications: A20, A22
Engaging Multidisciplinary Stakeholders to Drive Shared Decision-Making in Oncology
Authors: Rocque Gabrielle , Miller-Sonnet Ellen , Balch Alan , Stricker Carrie , Seidman Josh , Stiles Susan , Ruggerio John , Paynter Nancy , Lewis Mark , Kamal Arif
Published: November 2018

Although recognized as best practice, regular integration of shared decision-making (SDM) approaches between patients and oncologists remains an elusive goal. It is clear that usable, feasible, and practical tools are needed to drive increased SDM in oncology. To address this goal, we convened a multidisciplinary collaborative inclusive of experts across the health-care delivery ecosystem to identify key principles in designing and testing processes to promote SDM in routine oncology practice. In this commentary, we describe 3 best practices for addressing challenges associated with implementing SDM that emerged from a multidisciplinary collaborative: (1) engagement of diverse stakeholders who have interest in SDM, (2) development and validation of an evidence-based SDM tool grounded within an established conceptual framework, and (3) development of the necessary roadmap and consideration of the infrastructure needed for engendering patient engagement in decision-making. We believe these 3 principles are critical to the success of creating SDM tools to be utilized both within and outside of clinical practice. We are optimistic that shared use across settings will support adoption of this tool and overcome barriers to implementing SDM within busy clinical workflows. Ultimately, we hope that this work will offer new perspectives on what is important to patients and provide an important impetus for leveraging patient preferences and values in decision-making.