bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of two methods to determine the relative contributions of the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems in racehorses
Authors: Bond Stephanie L. , Greco-Otto Persephone , Sides Raymond , Kwong Grace P. S. , Léguillette Renaud , Bayly Warwick M.
Published: February 2019

A prospective, randomized, controlled study was designed to determine relative aerobic and anaerobic (lactic and alactic) contributions at supramaximal exercise intensities using two different methods. Thoroughbred racehorses ( n = 5) performed a maximal rate of oxygen consumption (V̇o2max) test and three supramaximal treadmill runs (105, 115, and 125% V̇o2max). Blood lactate concentration (BL) was measured at rest, every 15 s during runs, and 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min postexercise. In method 1, oxygen demand was calculated for each supramaximal intensity based on the V̇o2maxtest, and relative aerobic and anaerobic contributions were calculated from measured V̇o2and the accumulated oxygen deficit. In method 2, aerobic contribution was calculated using the trapezoidal method to determine V̇o2during exercise. A monoexponential model was fitted to the postexercise V̇o2curve. Alactic contribution was calculated using the coefficients of this model. Lactate anaerobic contribution was calculated by multiplying the peak to resting change in BL by 3. Linear mixed-effects models were used to examine the effects of exercise intensity and method (as fixed effects) on measured outcomes ( P ≤ 0.05). Relative aerobic and anaerobic contributions were not different between methods ( P = 0.20). Horses’ mean contributions were 81.4, 77.6, and 72.5% (aerobic), and 18.5, 22.3, and 27.4% (anaerobic) at 105, 115, and 125% V̇o2max, respectively. Individual alactic anaerobic energy was not different between supramaximal exercise intensities ( P = 0.43) and was negligible, contributing a mean of 0.11% of the total energy. Relative energy contributions can be calculated using measured V̇o2and BL in situations where the exercise intensity is unknown. Understanding relative metabolic demands could help develop tailored training programs.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Relative energy contributions of horses can be calculated using measured V̇o2and BL in situations where the exercise intensity is unknown. Horses’ mean contributions were 81.4, 77.6, and 72.5% (aerobic), and 18.5, 22.3, and 27.4% (anaerobic) at 105, 115, and 125% of V̇o2max, respectively. Individual alactic capacity was unaltered between supramaximal exercise intensities and accounted for a mean contribution of 0.11% of energy use.
Diffusion Coefficients of n-Alkanes and 1-Alcohols in Polyethylene Naphthalate (PEN)
Authors: Ewender Johann , Welle Frank
Published: February 2019

Polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) is a polyester polymer with well-known good barrier properties. PEN had been used in the food packaging area till 2012 especially as refillable bottles for soft drinks, juices, and beer. Now, PEN is mainly used in technical applications, e.g., for data storage tapes and organic light-emitting diode (OLED) applications. The aim of the study was the determination of the diffusion coefficients of organic molecules (n-alkanes, 1-alcohols) in PEN. Diffusion and partition coefficients were determined from the lag times of the permeation process of the permeants through a commercial 12 μm biaxial-oriented PEN film. In addition, activation energies of diffusion EA were calculated according to the Arrhenius approach. The activation energy of diffusion EA follows a correlation with the molecular volume V of the investigated permeants. In addition, the preexponential factor D0 follows a correlation with the activation energy of diffusion EA. The results of this study for PEN (e.g., EA, DP) were compared to literature data on PET.
Functionalized Graphene Derivatives: Antibacterial Properties and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Valentini Federica , Calcaterra Andrea , Ruggiero Vincenzo , Pichichero Elena , Martino Assunta , Iosi Francesca , Bertuccini Lucia , Antonaroli Simonetta , Mardente Stefania , Zicari Alessandra , Mari Emanuela , Iovenitti Giulia , Leone Gemma , Botta Maurizio , Talamo Maurizio
Published: February 2019

In this work, the authors prepared and characterized two different graphene oxides: one chemically synthesized (GO sample) and the other one electrochemically synthesized (GO(LiCl)). Both samples were fully characterized with atomic force microscopy (AFM), Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies, X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS), thermal analysis (TG/DTA), andZ-potential. The antibacterial properties of both graphene oxides were studied using Gram-negativeEscherichia coliATCC 25922 and Gram-positiveStaphylococcus aureusATCC 25923 by spectrophotometer and viable cell count as indirect and direct methods, respectively. Results demonstrated that the GO(LiCl)exhibited a significant antibacterial activity compared to GO that showed a bacteriostatic effect on both pathogens. Electron microscopy analysis confirmed the antibacterial effects of both graphene oxides toward the pathogens, especially working at 80 μg/mL, for 24 h. Additional studies were also performed and both GO samples were not cytotoxic at 2 μg/mL toward neuroblastoma cells. Moreover, 2 μg of GO was suitable to carry the minimum effective dose (5.74 ng/mL) of kinase inhibitor S29 (1-(2-chloro-2-(4-chlorophenyl)ethyl)-N-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-d] pyrimidin-4-amine), providing negligible side effects related to the S29 treatment (this latter being specifically active on the neuroblastoma cell lines (SK-N-BE(2))).
A Particle Filter Localization Method Using 2D Laser Sensor Measurements and Road Features for Autonomous Vehicle
Authors: Ahn KyungJae , Kang Yeonsik
Published: February 2019

This paper presents a method of particle filter localization for autonomous vehicles, based on two-dimensional (2D) laser sensor measurements and road features. To navigate an urban environment, an autonomous vehicle should be able to estimate its location with a reasonable accuracy. By detecting road features such as curbs and road markings, a grid-based feature map is constructed using 2D laser range finder measurements. Then, a particle filter is employed to accurately estimate the position of the autonomous vehicle. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is verified and compared to accurate Differential Global Positioning Systems (DGPS) data through real road driving experiments.
Modelling Multilevel Interdependencies for Resilience in Complex Organisation
Authors: Tasic Justyna , Tantri Fredy , Amir Sulfikar
Published: February 2019

This paper aims to model multilevel interdependencies in complex organisational systems and proposes application for resilience analysis. Most of the existing research studied interdependencies only at the single‐level and overlooked their multilevel character. In response to this gap, we propose a multilevel approach to better comprehend the complexity of interdependencies in organisational systems. More specifically, the study focuses on how interdependencies are shaped across multiple organisational levels. To understand the research problem, we use multilevel and social network theories to elaborate the concept at five organisational levels, namely, individual, intraunit, interunit, intraorganisational, and interorganisational. Further, we show the application of multilevel interdependencies into analysis of organisational resilience. To this end, we construct a multiplex model of a real world organisational system that comprises formal and informal relations of different social exchange strength. Using the agent‐based simulations of the organisational system, we investigate the relations between organisational interdependencies and organisational performance in normal and disrupted conditions. With the results, we argue that managing multilevel interdependencies is crucial to reduce vulnerability of organisational systems. By introducing the multilevel conceptualisation of interdependencies and presenting their influence on organisational resilience, we hope to pave a path to managing the complexity of interdependencies and strategic resilience enhancement in organisational systems.
Freeze-Concentrated Phase and State Transition Temperatures of Mixtures of Low and High Molecular Weight Cryoprotectants
Authors: Flores-Ramírez Alma J. , García-Coronado Pedro , Grajales-Lagunes Alicia , García Raúl González , Abud Archila Miguel , Ruiz Cabrera Miguel A.
Published: February 2019

Although numerous studies have been conducted on the use of cryoprotectants to prevent the deterioration of food during freezing and frozen storage, scarce reports exist on the thermal transition properties of aqueous cryoprotectant solutions at frozen temperatures. The selection of a suitable cryoprotective medium for the long-term preservation of food requires knowledge of the effects of cryoprotectants and their concentration on the freeze-concentrated unfrozen phase and state transition temperatures known asTg′,Tm′, andTm. Calorimetric measurements were conducted to determine theTg′,Tm′, andTmvalues of thirty frozen aqueous solutions containing maltodextrin, polydextrose, and glucose, in which a distance-based experimental design was used for mixtures of four components to establish their corresponding mass fractions in the mixtures. Thermograms, measured during heating/rewarming from –70 to 20°C, were used to identify the glass transition and freezing temperatures. Mathematical expressions forTg′,Tm′, andTmas a function of the mass fractions of cryoprotectants and water and their interactions (p< 0.05) were developed to aid the formulation of cryoprotective media involving more than two cryoprotectants for adequate frozen conservation of high and intermediate moisture foodstuffs.
Role of 99mTc-HIDA Scan for Assessment of Gallbladder Dyskinesia and Comparison of Gallbladder Dyskinesia with Various Parameters in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Patients
Authors: Thiyagarajan Manuneethimaran , Kamaraj Eniyan , Navrathan Nitesh , Thyagarajan Mohanapriya , Singh Krishna Balaji
Published: February 2019

Objectives. Pathogenesis of gallstone includes bile stasis due to defect in the gallbladder muscle contraction. Our aim of the study is to find out the role of 99mTc-HIDA scan in assessment of gallbladder dyskinesia in cholelithiasis patients before laparoscopic cholecystectomy and compare the gallbladder dyskinesia with various parameters like symptoms of patients, diabetic status of patients, gallstones size and number, and cholecystitis features in histopathology report after surgery. Material and Method. This is a prospective observational study conducted at our hospital for three years. Totally 40 patients with gallstone were subjected to 99mTc-HIDA scan, to assess the ejection fraction of gallbladder. For all these patients detailed clinical history, presence of comorbid illness like diabetics, and symptomatology were elicited. For all patients, ultrasonogram of abdomen was done to assess number and size of stones. All parameters were tabulated and correlated. Result. While comparing 99mTc-HIDA scan findings with symptoms of patients, 21.2% were asymptomatic and 78.8% symptomatic patients who had ejection fraction less than 80%. All patients in EF >80% group were symptomatic only. It is not statistically significant. On comparing 99mTc-HIDA scan findings with diabetic status of the patients, 42.4% of diabetic and 57.6 % of nondiabetic patients had ejection fraction less than 80%. It is not statistically significant (0.681). While comparing 99mTc-HIDA scan findings with size of the gallstone in ultrasound, 63.6% patients with size less than 1cm and 36.4% with size more than 1cm had ejection fraction < 80%. It is statistically significant (0.048). On comparing 99mTc-HIDA scan findings with number of stones in ultrasound, 18.2% single gallstone patients and 81.8% multiple gallstone patients had EF less than 80% which is statistically significant (0.001). While comparing the 99mTc-HIDA scan findings with histopathology report after laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 21.2% non-cholecystitis patients and 78.8% cholecystitis patients had EF less than 80%, which is statistically (0.017) significant. Conclusion. 99mTc-HIDA scan can be an accurate method to diagnose the gallbladder dyskinesia. Gallbladder dyskinesia in 99mTc-HIDA scan can be used to predict large size stones and multiple stones before surgery. The sensitivity can be improved by 99mTc-HIDA scan in diagnosing cholecystitis patients.
Overexpression of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Like Ligand 1 A in Myeloid Cells Aggravates Liver Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Guo Jinbo , Luo Yuxin , Yin Fengrong , Huo Xiaoxia , Niu Guochao , Song Mei , Chen Shuang , Zhang Xiaolan
Published: February 2019

Macrophages are the master regulator of the dynamic fibrogenesis–fibrosis resolution paradigm. TNF-like ligand 1 aberrance (TL1A) was found to be able to induce intestinal inflammation and fibrosis. Furthermore, significantly increased TL1A had been detected in liver tissues and mononuclear cells of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). This study was to investigate the effect of myeloid cells with constitutive TL1A expression on liver fibrogenesis. We found that TL1A expressions in liver tissues and macrophages were significantly increased in mice with liver fibrosis induced by injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). TL1A overexpression in myeloid cells induced liver function injury, accelerated the necrosis and apoptosis of hepatocytes, recruited macrophages, and promoted activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and fibrosis. In vitro results of our study showed that TL1A overexpression in macrophages promoted secretion of platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), and interleukin-1β(IL-1β). Culturing macrophages with TL1A overexpression could accelerate the activation and proliferation of primary HSCs. These results indicated that constitutive TL1A expression in myeloid cells exacerbated liver fibrosis, probably through macrophage recruitment and secretion of proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines.
An Integrated SEM-Neural Network Approach for Predicting Determinants of Adoption of Wearable Healthcare Devices
Authors: Asadi Shahla , Abdullah Rusli , Safaei Mahmood , Nazir Shah
Published: February 2019

The advancement in wireless sensor and information technology has offered enormous healthcare opportunities for wearable healthcare devices and has changed the way of health monitoring. Despite the importance of this technology, limited studies have paid attention for predicting individuals’ influential factors for adoption of wearable healthcare devices. The proposed research aimed at determining the key factors which impact an individual's intention for adopting wearable healthcare devices. The extended technology acceptance model with several external variables was incorporated to propose the research model. A multi-analytical approach, structural equation modelling-neural network, was considered for testing the proposed model. The results obtained from the structural equation modelling showed that the initial trust is considered as the most determinant and influencing factor in the decision of wearable health device adoption followed by health interest, consumer innovativeness, and so on. Moreover, the results obtained from the structural equation modelling applied as an input to the neural network indicated that the perceived ease of use is one of the predictors that are significant for adoption of wearable health devices by consumers. The proposed study explains the wearable health device implementation along with test adoption model, and their outcome will help providers in the manufacturing unit for increasing actual users’ continuous adoption intention and potential users’ intention to use wearable devices.
Infinitely Many Positive Solutions for a Coupled Discrete Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Li Liuming , Zhou Zhan
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we obtain some results for the existence of infinitely many positive solutions for a coupled discrete boundary value problem. The approach is based on variational methods.
Efficient Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Online/Offline Encryption with User Revocation
Authors: Ma Haiying , Wang Zhanjun , Guan Zhijin
Published: February 2019

Attribute-Based Encryption (ABE) must provide an efficient revocation mechanism since a user’s private key can be compromised or expired over time. The existing revocable ABE schemes have the drawbacks of heavy computational costs on key updates and encryption operations, which make the entities for performing these operations a possible bottleneck in practice applications. In this paper, we propose an efficient Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Online/Offline Encryption with user Revocation (R-CP-ABOOE). We integrate the subset difference method with ciphertext-policy ABE to significantly improve key-update efficiency on the side of the trusted party from O(rlog⁡(N/r)) to O(r), where N is the number of users and r is the number of revoked users. To reduce the encryption burden for mobile devices, we use the online/offline technology to shift the majority of encryption work to the offline phase, and then mobile devices only need to execute a few simple computations to create a ciphertext. In addition, we exploit a novel trick to prove its selective security under the q-type assumption. Performance analysis shows that our scheme greatly improves the key-update efficiency for the trusted party and the encryption efficiency for mobile devices.
HIV Care Continuum among Postpartum Women Living with HIV in Atlanta
Authors: Meade Christina M. , Badell Martina , Hackett Stephanie , Mehta C. Christina , Haddad Lisa B. , Camacho-Gonzalez Andres , Ford Joy , Holstad Marcia M. , Armstrong Wendy S. , Sheth Anandi N.
Published: February 2019

Introduction. While increased healthcare engagement and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence occurs during pregnancy, women living with HIV (WLWH) are often lost to follow-up after delivery. We sought to evaluate postpartum retention in care and viral suppression and to identify associated factors among WLWH in a large public hospital in Atlanta, Georgia.Methods. Data from the time of entry into prenatal care until 24 months postpartum were collected by chart review from WLWH who delivered with ≥20 weeks gestational age from 2011 to 2016. Primary outcomes were retention in HIV care (two HIV care visits or viral load measurements >90 days apart) and viral suppression (<200 copies/mL) at 12 and 24 months postpartum. Obstetric and contraception data were also collected.Results. Among 207 women, 80% attended an HIV primary care visit in a mean 124 days after delivery. At 12 and 24 months, respectively, 47% and 34% of women were retained in care and 41% and 30% of women were virally suppressed. Attending an HIV care visit within 90 days postpartum was associated with retention in care at 12 months (aOR 3.66, 95%CI 1.72-7.77) and 24 months (aOR 4.71, 95%CI 2.00-11.10) postpartum. Receiving ART at pregnancy diagnosis (aOR 2.29, 95%CI 1.11-4.74), viral suppression at delivery (aOR 3.44, 95%CI 1.39-8.50), and attending an HIV care visit within 90 days postpartum (aOR 2.40, 95%CI 1.12-5.16) were associated with 12-month viral suppression, and older age (aOR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01-1.18) was associated with 24-month viral suppression.Conclusions. Long-term retention in HIV care and viral suppression are low in this population of postpartum WLWH. Prompt transition to HIV care in the postpartum period was the strongest predictor of optimal HIV outcomes. Efforts supporting women during the postpartum transition from obstetric to HIV primary care may improve long-term HIV outcomes in women.
Stability Analysis for Discrete‐Time Stochastic Fuzzy Neural Networks with Mixed Delays
Authors: Li YaJun , Zhu Quanxin
Published: February 2019

This paper is concerned with the stability problem of a class of discrete‐time stochastic fuzzy neural networks with mixed delays. New Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functions are proposed and free weight matrices are introduced. The novel sufficient conditions for the stability of discrete‐time stochastic fuzzy neural networks with mixed delays are established in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness and benefits of the proposed method.
Numerical Simulation of Bedrock Sagging Sinkholes in Strain‐Softening Rock Induced by Embankment Construction
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Chen Zhongda
Published: February 2019

A bedrock sagging sinkhole occurred in Jiangxi Province of China when constructing the Changli freeway above shallow karst caves. It was chosen as a case to investigate the failure mechanism and potential evolution. The in situ stress of the study area was measured and numerically reproduced. The Hoek–Brown strength parameters were obtained by laboratory tests. A strain‐softening constitutive model was established according to the strain‐softening behaviour exhibited by the specimens in the triaxial test. The stress‐strain curves of the specimens were reproduced by numerical methods. Then, bedrock sagging sinkholes in strain‐softening rock induced by embankment construction were simulated. The occurrence of the strain‐softening zone and its transition to the residual zone were observed and classified into four stages. The stress paths of the four stages were analysed. Interestingly, in this case, the supports at both ends of the bedrock began to yield from the top and extended downward, while the midspan position began to yield from the bottom and extended upward, and the reasons for yielding were related to tension. Further analysis found that the failure mode was basically consistent with the size and direction of the bending moment. In fact, this failure mode was quite similar to a fixed supported beam. Then, the feasibility of calculating the stability of karst caves based on beam assumptions was discussed. Finally, potential evolution of the bedrock sagging sinkhole was discussed.
Development of a Stand-Alone Independent Graphical User Interface for Neurological Disease Prediction with Automated Extraction and Segmentation of Gray and White Matter in Brain MRI Images
Authors: Goyal Ayush , Tirumalasetty Sunayana , Hossain Gahangir , Challoo Rajab , Arya Manish , Agrawal Rajeev , Agrawal Deepak
Published: February 2019

This research presents an independent stand-alone graphical computational tool which functions as a neurological disease prediction framework for diagnosis of neurological disorders to assist neurologists or researchers in the field to perform automatic segmentation of gray and white matter regions in brain MRI images. The tool was built in collaboration with neurologists and neurosurgeons and many of the features are based on their feedback. This tool provides the user automatized functionality to perform automatic segmentation and extract the gray and white matter regions of patient brain image data using an algorithm called adapted fuzzy c-means (FCM) membership-based clustering with preprocessing using the elliptical Hough transform and postprocessing using connected region analysis. Dice coefficients for several patient brain MRI images were calculated to measure the similarity between the manual tracings by experts and automatic segmentations obtained in this research. The average Dice coefficients are 0.86 for gray matter, 0.88 for white matter, and 0.87 for total cortical matter. Dice coefficients of the proposed algorithm were also the highest when compared with previously published standard state-of-the-art brain MRI segmentation algorithms in terms of accuracy in segmenting the gray matter, white matter, and total cortical matter.
Theoretical Investigation on Failure Strength and Fracture Toughness of Precracked Single-Layer Graphene Sheets
Authors: Li Xin-Liang , Guo Jian-Gang
Published: February 2019

Young’s modulus, failure strength, and failure strain of precracked graphene are investigated via finite element method based on molecular structure mechanics in this research. The influence of distribution, length, and orientation of precrack and graphene sizes on these mechanical properties is analyzed. The ratio of precrack length and graphene width is defined as P value, and its particular value Pc can be found, at which the variation trends of Young’s modulus, failure strength, and strain have changes with increasing P value. In addition, the fracture toughness of precracked graphene is investigated, and the stress intensity factor (SIF) is calculated according to the Griffith criterion in classical fracture mechanics. The numerical values of the SIF are about 3.20-3.37 MPa√m, which are compared with the experimental results, and the simulations verify the applicability of the classical fracture mechanics to graphene.
Low Preoperative Prolactin Levels Predict Non-Organ Confined Prostate Cancer in Clinically Localized Disease
Authors: Porcaro Antonio Benito , Tafuri Alessandro , Sebben Marco , Cacciamani Giovanni , Ghimenton Claudio , Brunelli Matteo , Petrozziello Aldo , Monaco Carmelo , Migliorini Filippo , Siracusano Salvatore , Artibani Walter
Published: February 2019

Introduction: To evaluate the association between preoperative serum prolactin (PRL) levels and risk of non-organ confined prostate cancer (PCa) in clinically localized disease. Materials and Methods: From December 2007 to December 2011, 124 patients with clinically localized PCa were retrospectively evaluated. Non-organ confined disease in the surgical specimen was defined according to extra-capsular extension, seminal vesicle invasion, positive surgical margins, and lymph node invasion. The association between clinical factors and serum levels of pituitary-testis hormones with the risk of non-organ confined disease was evaluated. Results: Perioperative factors associated with non-organ confined disease include prostatic-specific antigen (OR 1.144; p = 0.025), proportion of biopsy positive cores (BPC, OR 36.702; p = 0.007), bioptical Gleason Score > 6 (OR 2.785; p = 0.034), and PRL (OR 0.756, p < 0.0001). The association was strong for BPC (area under the curve [AUC] 0.704; p < 0.0001) and PRL (AUC 0.299; p < 0.0001). When we dichotomized according to median value, PRL ≤7.7 µg/L was an independent predictor of extraprostatic disease (OR 6.571; p < 0.0001) with fair discrimination power (AUC 0.704; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Low preoperative PRL levels predict the risk of non-organ confined PCa in clinically localized disease.
Comparison of All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality of Persons with Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries to the General Swiss Population: Results from a National Cohort Study
Authors: Chamberlain Jonviea D. , Buzzell Anne , Gmünder Hans Peter , Hug Kerstin , Jordan Xavier , Moser André , Schubert Martin , Zwahlen Marcel , Brinkhof Martin W.G. ,   the SwiSCI Study Group and the Swiss National Cohort
Published: February 2019

Background: Traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) are a neurological condition associated with reduced well-being, increased morbidity and reductions in life expectancy. Estimates of all-cause and cause-specific mortality can aid in identifying targets for prevention and management of contributors for premature mortality. Objectives: To compare all-cause and cause-specific rates of mortality to that of the Swiss general population; to identify differentials in risk of cause-specific mortality according to lesion characteristics. Methods: All-cause and cause-specific standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated using data from the Swiss Spinal Cord Injury cohort study. Cause-specific subhazard ratios were estimated within a competing risk framework using flexible parametric survival models. Results: Between 1990 and 2011, 2,492 persons sustained a TSCI, of which 379 died. Persons with TSCI had a mortality rate more than 2 times higher than that of the Swiss general population (SMR 2.32; 95% CI 2.10–2.56). Tetraplegic lesions were associated with an increased risk of mortality due to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, infections, and accidents. Cause-specific SMRs were notably elevated for SCI-related conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and septicemia. Conclusions: Elevated SMRs due to cardiovascular disease, UTIs and septicemia-related mortality suggest the need for innovation when managing associated secondary health conditions.
Occult Basal Cell Carcinoma Arising in Seborrheic Keratosis
Authors: Kurihara Yuichi , Furue Masutaka
Published: February 2019

Both seborrheic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma are common skin tumors in daily clinical practice. However, the coexistence of seborrheic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma is rare. In this report, we present a case of occult microscopic basal cell carcinoma arising in a lesion of seborrheic keratosis. This case indicates that the basal cell carcinoma could arise from seborrheic keratosis and might help to clarify the origin of basal cell carcinoma.
Associations of High Intensities on Magnetization-Prepared Rapid Acquisition with Gradient Echo with Aortic Complicated Lesions in Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Yamaguchi Yoshitaka , Tanaka Tomotaka , Morita Yoshiaki , Yoshimura Sohei , Koga Masatoshi , Ihara Masafumi , Toyoda Kazunori
Published: February 2019

Background: Aortic complicated lesions (ACLs) are key parameters for evaluating aortic embolic sources in embolic stroke, and are usually diagnosed using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). However, alternative methods for diagnosing ACLs have not been well established. We investigated associations between high-intensity areas on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) with magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition with gradient echo (MPRAGE) and ACLs on TEE among ischemic stroke patients. Methods: Participants comprised 135 patients (mean age, 71 years; 35 women) with ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack who underwent TEE for evaluation of embolic sources and plaque imaging using MPRAGE for evaluation of aortic or carotid plaques. Aortic plaque with signal intensity ≥200% of sternocleidomastoid intensity on MPRAGE was categorized as “high intensity”. ACLs on TEE were defined by focal increases in intima-media thickness (IMT) ≥4.0 mm or the presence of ulcerated or mobile plaques. Results: Fifty-six patients (42%) showed high-intensity areas on MPRAGE at the aortic arch. Aortic maximum IMT was significantly higher in patients with high intensities than in those without (p < 0.001). Incidences of ACLs (66 vs. 20%, p < 0.001) or ulcerated or mobile plaques (30 vs. 6%, p < 0.001) were significantly higher in patients with high intensities than in patients without. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that high intensities on MPRAGE were independently associated with the presence of ACLs (OR 5.72; 95% CI 2.38–13.70) and ulcerated or mobile plaques (OR 4.18; 95% CI 1.29–13.50). Conclusions: High intensities on T1WI with MPRAGE in the aortic arch were significantly associated with the presence of ACLs. An evaluation of the aortic arch using MPRAGE may be useful for predicting ACLs.
Long-Term Side Effects of Adjuvant Therapy in Primary Breast Cancer Patients: Results of a Web-Based Survey
Authors: Haidinger Renate , Bauerfeind Ingo
Published: February 2019

Background: Chronic treatment sequelae may substantially reduce the long-term quality of life in breast cancer survivors. Methods: We report a comprehensive Web-based survey on the presence of long-term side effects of adjuvant anti-breast cancer therapy in 1,506 patients who had been diagnosed with primary breast cancer at least 1 year before. Results: Fatigue, depression, depressive mood, concentration deficit, pain, changes of mucosa and skin appendages, as well as symptoms of peripheral neuropathy were the most prevalent reported complaints. Chemotherapies - taxane-based regimens in particular - were associated with increased rates of long-term symptoms, including persistent peripheral neuropathy. Overall, the data show a substantial prevalence of a wide variety of potentially treatment-associated symptoms over a protracted time frame after the diagnosis of breast cancer. The burden of symptoms was high for fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances, pain, and peripheral neuropathic symptoms. Conclusion: Estimating the burden of chronic toxicities should contribute to enhance rational decision-making on treatments including chemotherapy in patients with low versus high risk of recurrence.
Diversity of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria in Kuwait: Rapid Identification and Differentiation of Mycobacterium Species by Multiplex PCR, INNO-LiPA Mycobacteria v2 Assay and PCR Sequencing of rDNA
Authors: Ahmad Suhail , Mokaddas Eiman
Published: February 2019

Objective: Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) often cause disease that is clinically indistinguishable from tuberculosis. Specific identification is important as treatment varies according to Mycobacterium species causing the infection. This study used multiplex PCR (mPCR) assay for rapid differentiation of mycobacterial growth indicator tube 960 system (MGIT) cultures as Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) or NTM together with INNO LiPA Mycobacteria v2 assay (LiPA) and/or PCR sequencing of rDNA for species-specific identification of selected MTB and all NTM isolates in Kuwait. Materials and Methods: DNA was extracted from MGIT cultures (n = 1,033) grown from 664 pulmonary and 369 extrapulmonary specimens from 1,033 suspected tuberculosis patients. mPCR was performed to differentiate MTB from NTM. LiPA was performed and results were interpreted according to kit instructions. rDNA was amplified and sequenced by using panmycobacterial primers. Results: mPCR identified 979 isolates as MTB, 53 as NTM and 1 isolate as mixed culture. LiPA and/or PCR sequencing confirmed 112 of 979 selected isolates as MTB. Mixed culture contained M. tuberculosis and M. fortuitum. LiPA yielded 12 patterns and identified 10 species/species complexes among 47 NTM, M. kansasii + M. scrofulaceum in one culture and 5 isolates only at genus level. PCR sequencing yielded more specific identification for 22 isolates at the species/subspecies level. Conclusions: mPCR rapidly differentiated MTB from NTM. LiPA identified 44 of 52 NTM isolates at the species/species complex level and 2 mixed cultures. PCR sequencing yielded more specific identification at the species/subspecies level. Rapid differentiation as MTB or NTM by mPCR, followed by species-specific NTM identification by LiPA/PCR sequencing is suitable for the proper management of mycobacterial infections in Kuwait.
Clinical Utility of
CYP2C19
Genotyping to Guide Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients With an Acute Coronary Syndrome or Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Klein Melissa D. , Williams Alexis K. , Lee Craig R. , Stouffer George A.
Published: February 2019

Current guidelines recommend dual antiplatelet therapy—a P2Y
12
inhibitor (clopidogrel, prasugrel, or ticagrelor) and aspirin—for patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Although clopidogrel is the most commonly prescribed P2Y
12
inhibitor, it is associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients carrying loss-of-function
CYP2C19
alleles. In contrast,
CYP2C19
genotype does not impact clinical response to prasugrel or ticagrelor. Nevertheless, routine implementation of
CYP2C19
genotyping to guide antiplatelet therapy selection has remained controversial because of the lack of large randomized controlled trials evaluating this strategy. Emerging results from registry studies and small clinical trials of
CYP2C19
genotype-guided antiplatelet therapy following percutaneous coronary intervention offer new insight and contribute to a growing evidence base that supports the clinical utility of a genotyping strategy to personalize antiplatelet therapy selection.
Chemokines as Therapeutic Targets in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Noels Heidi , Weber Christian , Koenen Rory R.
Published: February 2019

With the incidence and impact of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and its clinical manifestations still rising, therapeutic options that target the causal mechanisms of this disorder are highly desired. Since the CANTOS trial (Canakinumab Antiinflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study) has demonstrated that lowering inflammation can be beneficial, focusing on mechanisms underlying inflammation, for example, leukocyte recruitment, is feasible. Being key orchestrators of leukocyte trafficking, chemokines have not lost their attractiveness as therapeutic targets, despite the difficult road to drug approval thus far. Still, innovative therapeutic approaches are being developed, paving the road towards the first chemokine-based therapeutic against inflammation. In this overview, recent developments for chemokines and for the chemokine-like factor MIF (macrophage migration inhibitory factor) will be discussed.
Open and Endovascular Management of Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Swerdlow Nicholas J. , Wu Winona W. , Schermerhorn Marc L.
Published: February 2019

Aneurysmal disease can affect any segment of the aorta, from the aortic root to the aortic bifurcation. The treatment of aortic aneurysms has evolved dramatically in the past 3 decades, with the introduction of endovascular aneurysm repair using stent grafts causing a major paradigm shift in the field of aortic aneurysm surgery. While the technical details of the management of aortic aneurysms vary greatly depending on the location of an aneurysm, the principles remain the same. Successful aortic aneurysm treatment depends on either open replacement or endovascular exclusion of the aneurysmal segment with healthy artery proximal and distal to the repair. Major aortic branches of the arch and visceral segment add additional technical complexity to aneurysms involving these regions. Even as endovascular repair becomes the primary treatment modality for most aortic aneurysms, open repair remains an essential treatment modality in many circumstances. Additionally, long-term results of endovascular repair suggest that younger patients with long life expectancy and low-perioperative risk may benefit more from open repair. Therefore, technical expertise in both endovascular and open treatment is necessary for a comprehensive aortic aneurysm surgery practice.
A Remark on the Economics of Quantifier Raising
Authors: Overfelt Jason
Published: February 2019

Quantifier Raising is often considered to be a relatively local operation, though it has been argued that nonlocal applications are licensed by generating new scope interpretations ( Fox 2000 , Reinhart 2006 ) or resolving antecedent-contained deletions ( Fox 2002 , Wilder 2003 , Cecchetto 2004 ). In this article, an account of the restricted distribution of sloppy pronouns in antecedent-contained deletions leads to the conclusion that exceptional applications of Quantifier Raising are in fact not licensed purely by virtue of QR’s escaping the antecedent for ellipsis.
Paratanaoidean tanaidaceans (Crustacea: Peracarida) from littoral and shallow sublittoral habitats in New Zealand, with descriptions of three new genera and seven new species
Authors: BIRD GRAHAM J.
Published: February 2019

Three new genera and seven new species of paratanaoidean tanaidaceans are described from a variety of littoral and shallow sublittoral habitats around New Zealand, from the Snares Islands to Northland. These include a new leptocheliid genus, Parakonarus, closely allied to Konarus Bamber, and three paratanaids: two species of Paratanais Dana and a new genus, Atemtanais, which appears to show characters intermediate between Metatanais Shiino and Paratanais. The remaining three taxa belong either to the Tanaellidae (a new species of Araphura Bird & Holdich) or are of incertae sedis family status: Kanikipa n. gen. and a new species of Tanaopsis G.O. Sars.This study has almost doubled the known, published records of shallow-water tanaidomorphan species in New Zealand and all of the species are likely to be recorded more widely than the records here imply.
Accelerating biodiversity descriptions and transforming taxonomic publishing: the first decade of Zootaxa
Authors: ZHANG ZHI-QIANG
Published: February 2019

Zootaxa was launched ten years to help taxonomists overcome the taxonomic impediment by enabling them to describe biodiversity in a rapid and efficient way.  The first paper on a new species of flat mite (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) was published in Zootaxa 1 on 28 May 2001 (Moraes & Freire 2001). Unlike many regularly-scheduled journals, each paper in Zootaxa was separately issued and published without delay after acceptance by the editor, and there are no page charges or a small fee to support open access. In addition, Zootaxa offers  the flexibility to publish manuscripts of any length, so long as they pass peer review. Many colleagues were excited and encouraged by the prospects of such a brand new journal and some of them joined as associate editors to facilitate rapid processing of manuscripts. The journal has met the needs of authors and sustained an early phase of very rapid growth (Figs 1–3), with issue/paper 1,000 published on 27 May 2005 (Rodiles-Hernández et al. 2005).  In the first four years, over 1,100 authors from all over the world published 23,000 pages in Zootaxa (Zhang 2005). Thereafter, short papers of fewer than 60 pages were no longer issued separately because several papers were often published on the same day; instead, short papers were grouped to form standard issues of 60, 64, or 68 pages to save paper, printing and mailing costs, with relatively little effect on the speed of publication.
To honour and to inspire: profiles of outstanding taxonomists
Authors: ZHANG ZHI-QIANG
Published: February 2019

In this issue of Zootaxa, we open a new section to feature our outstanding taxonomists who have made great contributions to the field. These profiles are for living taxonomists who are still active, with preference for those who are authors and/or editors of Zootaxa. Most profiles will be by invitation, although we also welcome proposals and suggestions from the general readership. We are primarily interested in honouring distinguished members of our science who are the doyens of their areas of expertise (especially those in their 70s or more). As Zootaxa is mainly a journal of descriptive taxonomy, we are particularly interested in profiling taxonomists who had discovered and authored a very significant number of new taxa (e.g. 500 or more, but this number can be lowered for authors who work on some groups such as vertebrates).  In addition to stories of their life (preferably with photos), we appreciate a list of taxa that they authored, complete with a list of bibliography. We are also keen to honour great mentors who are inspirational to students and colleagues. It is our hope that the passion, dedication and contributions of our outstanding taxonomists will inspire a new generation into exploring, classifying and describing the fascinating biodiversity that surrounds us.
Laurence Alfred Mound and his contributions to our knowledge of the Thysanoptera
Authors: FUNDERBURK JOE , HODDLE MARK
Published: February 2019

Laurence Alfred Mound became interested in taxonomy after two postgraduate periods at the British Museum of Natural History (now the Natural History Museum) in London where he discovered biological diversity and the endless variety of living things. While working in Nigeria and the Sudan, and studying variation in whitefly populations, he gained an appreciation for the great differences within species in behavior and morphology under varying environmental conditions. He was appointed to the British Museum of Natural History in 1964 where he worked on the taxonomy of thrips, whiteflies, and aphids until he retired as Keeper of Entomology in 1992. He now lives in Canberra, Australia, serving as an Honorary Research Fellow, CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences at the Black Mountain Campus. Driving questions motivate him and provide insight into his thinking of the natural world: Why are there so many species of insects, yet so few species of thrips? Why so many at one place but so few at another? Do environmental and host plant factors drive the astonishing levels of morphological variation seen in single species? If so why? Why do so few thrips vector plant viruses, but why are those few so successful? Why are so many thrips associated with Acacia trees in Australia but so few on other plants? To address these questions and as part of his ongoing efforts to document the biodiversity of thrips, Laurence Mound has established 90 new Thysanoptera genera, and described 641 new species of thrips. These taxonomic designations are new hypotheses inviting scrutiny and study.  At the time this document was written Laurence’s research articles had been cited almost 1,300 times. Here we review Laurence Mound’s career to this point, and we discuss the quality and quantity of his remarkable accomplishments in taxonomy, as well as highlighting his distinctive personal characteristics.
New Noctuidae species from China (Lepidoptera, Noctuoidea)
Authors: GYULAI P. , RONKAY L. , SALDAITIS A.
Published: February 2019

Collecting expeditions to China's Sichuan, Gansu and Qinghai provinces were conducted by the third author, along with Alessandro and Irene Floriani, during June 2009, April 2010 and July 2010. Light trapping yielded numerous noctuid moths including four new species, described herein. These new taxa reflect the high diversity of some genera (Hada, Billberg, 1820 ; Palaeamathes, Boursin, 1954) in SW China, and the biogeographical connections of the Tibetan Plateau to Central Asia (Lacanobia kitokia sp. n., L. contrastata (Bryk, 1942), L. mongolica Behounek, 1993, L. kirghisa Gyulai & Ronkay, 1998) and to the Himalayan Region (Palaeamathes serrulata sp. n. is close to P. harpegnoma (Hreblay & Ronkay, 1998). Acronyms for personal and institutional collections are as follows: AFM—Alessandro Floriani (Milan, Italy); ASV—Aidas Saldaitis (Vilnius, Lithuania); BJ—Janos Babics (Budapest, Hungary); DNK—Danny Nilsson (Kalvehave, Denmark); GRB—Gabor Ronkay (Budapest, Hungary); GBG/ZSM—Gottfried Behounek (Grafing, Germany) / Zoologische Staatssammlung, München (Germany); GYP—Peter Gyulai (Miskolc, Hungary); HHP – Henri Hoppe (Klein Pravtshagen, Germany); NRCV—Nature Research Centre (Vilnius, Lithuania); WSM—Wolfgang Speidel (München, Germany).
Review of the genus Haplotropis Saussure, 1888 (Orthoptera: Pamphagidae), with notes on classification of the subfamilies Pamphaginae and Trinchinae
Authors: STOROZHENKO SERGEY YU. , PAIK JONG-CHEOL
Published: February 2019

A review of the genus Haplotropis and a key to tribes of the subfamily Pamphaginae are given. New synonymy is proposed: Haplotropis Saussure, 1888 = Sinohaplotropis Cao et Yin, 2008, syn. nov.; Haplotropis brunneriana Saussure, 1888 = Sinohaplotropis elunchuna Cao et Yin, 2008, syn. nov., = Haplotropis neimongolensis Jin, 1994, syn. nov.; Nocarodeini Bolivar, 1916 = Sulcatini Harz, 1975, syn. nov., = Nocarodesinae Zhang, Yin et Yin, 2003, syn. nov., = Tropidaucheninae Zhang, Yin et Yin, 2003, syn. nov.; Pamphagini Burmeister, 1840 = Orchaminae Zhang, Yin et Yin, 2003, syn. nov.; Trinchinae Stål, 1876 = Prionopropsinae Zhang, Yin et Yin, 2003, syn. nov.
Descriptions of six new species of Midoria (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Ledrinae) from China with a key to the species of the genus
Authors: LI YU-JIAN , LI ZI-ZHONG
Published: February 2019

The paper deals with six new species of the genus Midoria Kato, 1931 (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Ledrinae), Midoria denticulata sp. nov., Midoria deplanata sp. nov., Midoria zunyiensis sp. nov., Midoria hamulata sp. nov., Midoria torsiva sp. nov. and Midoria hastifera sp. nov.. A key to distinguish all species of the genus (except Midoria capitata Kato) is given. The type specimens of new species are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University (GUGC).
The second species of the leafhopper genus Watara Dworakowska (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Erythroneurini)
Authors: ZHANG YALIN , YANG MEIXIA
Published: February 2019

General characteristics of Watara Dworakowska and a key to known species of the genus are provided. A new species, Watara cordata sp. nov., is described from China.